University of Virginia Library

Thassirian king in peace

Of Sardinapalus dishonorable life, and miserable death.

Thassirian king in peace, with foule desire,
And filthy lustes, that staynd his regall hart
In warre that should set princely hartes on fire:
Did yeld, vanquisht for want of marciall art.
The dint of swordes from kisses semed strange:
And harder, than his ladies syde, his targe:
From glutton feastes, to souldiars fare a change:
His helmet, farre aboue a garlands charge.
Who scace the name of manhode did retayn
Drenched in slouth, and womanish delight,
Feble of sprite, impacient of pain:
When he had lost his honor, and his right:
Proud, time of wealth, in stormes appalled with drede,
Murthered himself, to shew some manful dede.