530 
ANACREON.—ODE II. 
ON WOMAN. 
Nature wisely hath decreed, 
To the bull sharp goring horns ; 
For defence the noble steed, 
She with horny hoofs adorns. 
By her compensating laws, 
Timid hares escape their foes : 
Lions she arms with gaping jaws, 
Which tremendous fangs disclose. 
Fin-equipped by Nature’s care, 
Fish through waters flashing swim ; 
Circling in the ambient air, 
Birds their wing-supplier hymn. 
Man from her all bounteous hand, 
Thought inherits as a guide ; 
What is left at her command, 
For sweet woman to provide. 
Mightier than all other arms, 
Gifts of beauty still remain ; 
Warriors yield to beauty’s charms, 
’Gainst them sword and shield are vain. 
Beauty kindling soft desire, 
Overcomes the foeman’s steel ; 
Heat surpassing that of fire, 
Hearts inflamed by beauty feel. 
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