THE ORLANDO FURIOSO.
CANTO V.
I.
Among all other animals who prey[1]
On earth, or who unite in friendly wise,
Whether they mix in peace or moody fray,
No male offends his mate. In safety hies
The she-bear, matched with hers, through forest gray:
The lioness beside the lion lies:
Wolves, male and female, live in loving cheer;
Nor gentle heifer dreads the wilful steer.
II.
What Fury, what abominable Pest
Such poison in the human heart has shed,
That still ’twixt man and wife, with rage possessed,
Injurious words and foul reproach are said?
And blows and outrage base their peace molest[2],
And bitter tears still wash the genial bed;
Not only watered by the tearful flood,
But often bathed by senseless ire with blood?
