But Hudibras gave him a twitch

As quick as lightning in the breech,

Just in the place where honour's lodg'd,

As wise philosophers have judg'd;

Because a kick in that part more

Hurts honour than deep wounds before.

Samuel Butler (1600-1680): Hudibras. Part ii. Canto iii. Line 1065.

A kick that scarce would move a horse

May kill a sound divine.

William Cowper (1731-1800): The Yearly Distress.

Perhaps it was right to dissemble your love,

But—why did you kick me down stairs?

J P Kemble (1757-1823): The Panel. Act i. Sc. 1.

But as some muskets so contrive it

As oft to miss the mark they drive at,

And though well aimed at duck or plover,

Bear wide, and kick their owners over.

John Trumbull (1750-1831): McFingal. Canto i. Line 93.