English poem
Should I behold in Rome, that Man, says he
by John Evelyn (1620–1706)
Should I behold in Rome, that Man, says he, That were of spotless Fame, and Life unblam'd; More than a Wonder it would be to me, And I that Monster would compare to damn'd: Two-headed Boy, with double Members born, Or Fish, by Plow turn'd up, where lately Corn In fertile Acres grew; or Fole by Mule Brought forth, as Heaven would Nature over-rule: No less amaz'd, than if a stoney Showre Should from the Skie upon the Pavement pour; Or that some Swarm of Bees, ascending higher Than usually, should cluster on the Temple Spire; Or that some rapid and impetuous Stream, Should roll into the Sea, all Bloud, or Cream.