Plain text of Chapter Lxxiv. The Land
731 Where spreads fertility unfailing, where resides a band Of virtuous men, and those of ample wealth, call that a 'land.'
732 That is a 'land' which men desire for wealth's abundant share, Yielding rich increase, where calamities are rare.
733 When burthens press, it bears; yet, with unfailing hand, To king due tribute pays: that is the 'land.'
734 That is a 'land' whose peaceful annals know, Nor famine fierce, nor wasting plague, nor ravage of the foe.
735 From factions free, and desolating civil strife, and band Of lurking murderers that king afflict, that is the 'land.'
736 Chief of all lands is that, where nought disturbs its peace; Or, if invaders come, still yields its rich increase.
737 Waters from rains and springs, a mountain near, and waters thence; These make a land, with fortress' sure defence.
738 A country's jewels are these five: unfailing health, Fertility, and joy, a sure defence, and wealth.
739 That is a land that yields increase unsought, That is no land whose gifts with toil are bought.
740 Though blest with all these varied gifts' increase, A land gains nought that is not with its king at peace.