and how slender is this ye may see for yourselves. As
to all beside, with what utter ruin it is stricken is palpable
to the sight of your eyes, to the touch of your hands. I
throw the blame on none: manly worth has done the utmost
it could: all the sinews of the realm have been strained 25
in the contest. Now then I will set forth what is the judgment
of my wavering mind, and show you it in few words,
if ye will lend me your attention. There is an ancient
territory of mine bordering on the Tuscan river, extending
lengthwise to the west, even beyond the Sicanian frontier; 30