Was he adored. So shall the stars expect

My godhead too, if first I seize and slay530

With sword relentless all who bear me hate,

And on a worthy offspring found my house.

Seneca: But she will fill thy house with noble sons,

That heaven-born glory of the Claudian stock,

Who by the will of fate was wed to thee,

As Juno to her brother Jove was given.535

Nero: A child of hers would stain my noble line,

For she herself was of a harlot born;