Carmina

Catullus

Catullus, Gaius Valerius. The Carmina of Caius Valerius Catullus. Burton, Sir Richard Francis, translator. London, Printed for the Translators, 1894.

  1. After thy doom of death fro' mind I banishèd wholly
  2. Studies like these, and all lending a solace to soul;
  3. Wherefore as to thy writ :—"Verona's home for Catullus
  4. Bringeth him shame, for there men of superior mark
  5. Must on a deserted couch fain chafe their refrigerate limbs:"
  6. Such be no shame (Manius!): rather 'tis matter of ruth.
  7. Pardon me, then, wilt thou an gifts bereft me by grieving
  8. These I send not to thee since I avail not present.
  9. For, that I own not here abundant treasure of writings
  10. Has for its cause, in Rome dwell I; and there am I homed,
  11. There be my seat, and there my years are gathered to harvest;
  12. Out of book-cases galore here am I followed by one.
  13. This being thus, nill I thou deem 'tis spirit malignant
  14. Acts in such wise or mind lacking of liberal mood
  15. That to thy prayer both gifts be not in plenty supplièd:
  16. Willingly both had I sent, had I the needed supply.
  17. Nor can I (Goddesses!) hide in what things Allius sent me
  18. Aid, forbear to declare what was the aidance he deigned:
  19. Neither shall fugitive Time from centuries ever oblivious
  20. Veil in the blinds of night friendship he lavisht on me.
  21. But will I say unto you what you shall say to the many