And their new commonwealth hath set them free

Only from honour and civility.

Venetians do not more uncouthly ride,

Than did their lubber state mankind bestride;

Their sway became them with as ill a main,

As their own paunches swell above their chin.

Yet is their empire no true growth, but humour,

And only two kings' touch can cure the tumour.[77]

As Cato fruits of Afric did display,

Let us before our eyes their Indies lay: