disgusts the person whom it loves; especially when it recommends itself by numbers, and the art [of writing].  For one learns sooner, and more willingly remembers, that which a man derides, than that which he approves and venerates.  I value not the zeal that gives me uneasiness; nor do I wish to be set out any where in wax with a face formed for the worse, nor to be celebrated in ill-composed verses; lest I blush, when presented with the gross gift; and, exposed in an open box along with my author, be conveyed into the street that sells frankincense, and spices, and pepper, and whatever is wrapped up in impertinent writings.

* * * * *

EPISTLE II.

TO JULIUS FLORUS.

In apologizing for not having written to him, he shows that the well-ordering of life is of more importance than the composition of verses.

O Florus, faithful friend to the good and illustrious Nero, if by chance any one should offer to sell you a boy born at Tibur and Gabii, and should treat with you in this manner; “This [boy who is] both good-natured and well-favored from head to foot, shall become and be yours for eight thousand sesterces; a domestic slave, ready in his attendance at his master’s nod; initiated in the Greek language, of a capacity for any art; you may shape out any thing with [such] moist clay; besides, he will sing in an artless manner, but yet entertaining to one drinking.  Lavish promises lessen credit, when any one cries up extravagantly the wares he has for sale, which he wants to put off.  No emergency obliges me [to dispose of him]:  though poor, I am in nobody’s debt.  None of the chapmen would do this for you; nor should every body readily receive the same favor from me.  Once, [in deed,] he [loitered on an errand]; and (as it happens) absconded, being afraid of the lash that hangs in the staircase.  Give me your money, if this runaway trick, which I have expected, does not offend you.”  In my opinion, the man may take his price, and be secure from any punishment:  you wittingly purchased a good-for-nothing boy:  the condition of the contract was told you.  Nevertheless you prosecute this man, and detain him in an unjust suit.

I told you, at your setting out, that I was indolent:  I told you I was almost incapable of such offices:  that you might not chide me in angry mood, because no letter [from me] came to hand.  What then have I profited, if you nevertheless arraign the conditions that make for me?  On the same score too you complain, that, being worse than my word, I do not send you the verses you expected.