The Hercynian Forest
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When Roman emperors pressed conquest past The Rhine and to the forests of the east, Were these imperial stabs trying to cast Nets for trammeling a fabulous beast? Hercyninan primeval greenwoods were Reputed to embrace the unicorn In their protection, keeping its white fur Inviolate, as pure as its kept horn, An offering for virgins. Here the trees Among the mountain heights were far too dense For legions. Unicorns could graze at ease While envisioning a maiden’s eminence. ..The questing Roman cohorts searched in vain. |