For not to use alone did Providence

Abound, but large example gave to man

Of grace, and ornament, and splendor rich;

Suited abundantly to every taste

In bird, beast, fish, winged and creeping thing;

In herb and flower; and in the restless change

Which on the many-colored seasons made

The annual circuit of the fruitful earth.

Robert Pollock, 1799–1827.

THE SHIELD OF ACHILLES.