AD XANTHIAM PHOCEUM

Horace: Book II, Ode 4.

_"Ne sit ancillae tibi amor pudori."_


Nay, Xanthias, feel unashamed
That she you love is but a servant.
Remember, lovers far more famed
Were just as fervent.

Achilles loved the pretty slave
Briseis for her fair complexion;
And to Tecmessa Ajax gave
His young affection.

Why, Agamemnon at the height
Of feasting, triumph, and anointment,
Left everything to keep, one night,
A small appointment.

And are you sure the girl you love--
This maid on whom you have your heart set
Is lowly--that she is not of
The Roman smart set?

A maiden modest as is she,
So full of sweetness and forbearance,