RIDDLES. 51

I once a nymph was—sported on the plains,

The pride and glory of the neighbouring swains ;
Till, cross’d in love, I left my native glade,

My form consumed, and dwindled to a shade.

 

RIDDLE CVI.
BRITONS, in me you may behold, of late,

A dismal instance of inconstant fate :
Five thousand years and more ran gently round,
While I, from most, respect and honour found ;
By heroes, sages, senators, caress’ ;
To kings and princes no unwelcome guest ;
Nay, in such great request—so ran the taste—
That those without me seemed to be disgraced.
But see the issue of my prosperous fate !
Scarce dare I offer to appear of late,
But men my life with fatal steel pursue,
And all around my mangled members strew.

 

RIDDLE CVIL.

THO man, bird, and beast, I am found to belong,
And with lovers am known as the theme of their
song 5