11.
"The fig-tree--not that kind for fruit renowned, But such as at this day to Indians known, In Malabar or Dekkan spreads her arms, Branching so broad and long, that on the ground The bended twigs take root, and _daughters grow About the mother tree: a pillar'd_ shade High over arched and echoing walks between.
There oft the Indian herdsman, shunning heat, Shelters in cool and _tends his pasturing flocks_ At loop-holes cut through thickest shade.

These leaves They gathered; broad as _Amazonian targe:_ And with what skill they had, together sewed To gird their waist," &c.
_Par.

Lost_, ix.

1100.
Pliny's description is borrowed, with some embellishments, from THEOPHRASTUS _de.Nat.

Plant._ l.i.7.iv.