Page:Virgil's Pastorals, Georgics and Aeneis - Dryden (1709) - volume 1.pdf/273

Geor. II.

''The Subject of the following Book is Planting. In handling of which Argument, the Poet shews all the different Methods of raising Trees: Describes their Variety; and gives Rules for the management of each in particular. He then points out the Soils in which the several Plants thrive best: And thence takes occasion to run out into the Praises of Italy. After which he gives some Directions for discovering the Nature of every Soil; prescribes Rules for the Dressing of Vines, Olives, &c. And concludes the Georgic with a Panegyric on a Country Life.''

Hus far of Tillage, and of Heav'nly Signs; Now sing my Muse the growth of gen'rous Vines: The shady Groves, the Woodland Progeny, And the slow Product of Minerva's Tree. Great Father Bacchus! to my Song repair; For clustring Grapes are thy peculiar Care: