[277] Ovid.—Steevens.
[278] [An usual form in ancient times.]
[279] Deluges.—Steevens.
[280] [Allusively to the fabled descent of the Britons from the Trojans.]
[281] The same sentiment is introduced by Shakespeare into "King John," act v. sc. 7—
"This England never did, nor never shall,
Lie at the proud foot of a conqueror.
But when it first did help to wound itself;
Now these her princes are come home again,
Come the three corners of the world in arms.
And we shall shock them: nought shall make us rue,
If England to itself do rest but true."
Again, in the old play of "King John," 1591—
"If England's Peers and People join in one,
Nor Pope, nor France, nor Spain can do them wrong."
The same sentiment is in Borde's "Book of the Introduction of Knowledge," sig. A 4: "They (i.e., the English) fare sumptiously, God is served in their churches devoutli, but treason and deceit among them is used craftyly, ye more pitie, for yf they were true wjthin themselfs, thei nede not to feare, although al nations were set against them, specialli now, consydering our noble prince (i.e., Henry VIII.) hath and dayly dothe make noble defences as castels," &c.
[282] See note to "Cornelia," [v. 211.]