And soldiers of fortune whose weapons have rusted, devour

The spoils of the world. Art caters to appetite. Wrasse

From Sicily brought to their table, alive in his own Sea water.

The oysters from Lucrine's shore torn, at the feast

Are served to make famous the host; and the appetite, cloyed,

To tempt by extravagance. Phasis has now been despoiled

Of birds, its littoral silent, no sound there is heard

Save only the wind as it rustles among the last leaves.

Corruption no less vile is seen in the campus of Mars,

Our quirites are bribed; and for plunder and promise of gain

Their votes they will alter. The people is venal; corrupt

The Senate; support has its price! And the freedom and worth

Of age is decayed, scattered largesse now governs their power;

Corrupted by gold, even dignity lies in the dust.

Cato defeated and hooted by mobs, but the victor