For complex soon became national life.
Wealth counted first by cattle, and by land;
And the State’s part was at the King’s command.
By his own standard he apportioned it,
For strength or beauty; sometimes mother-wit.
Laws of inheritance grew fixed; and great
Landowners vied with kings to rule a State.
Gold came; race, steel, charm, acres ceased to reign;
All gave gold way, and followed in its train.
An owner used it to earn rule and fame;