This dainty little book and new,
Just polished with the pumice, who
Shall now receive?—Cornelius, you!
For these my trifles even then
You counted of some value, when
You only of Italian men
Into three tomes had dared to cast
The story of all ages past,—
Learned, O Jupiter, and vast!
So take it, prize it as you may.
—And, gracious Virgin, this I pray:
That it shall live beyond our day!
Translation of William C. Lawton.
A MORNING CALL
Varus would take me t'other day
To see a little girl he knew,—
Pretty and witty in her way,
With impudence enough for two.
Scarce are we seated, ere she chatters
(As pretty girls are wont to do)
About all persons, places, matters:—
"And pray, what has been done for you?"