C. Valerius Catullus, Carmina
Sir Richard Francis Burton, Ed.

TO GELLIUS THE CRITIC.

Seeking often in mind with spirit eager of study
How I could send thee songs chaunted of Battiadés,
So thou be softened to us, nor any attempting thou venture
Shot of thy hostile shaft piercing me high as its head,—
Now do I ken this toil with vainest purpose was taken,
(Gellius!) nor herein aught have our prayers availèd.
Therefore we'll parry with cloak what shafts thou shootest against us;
And by our bolts transfixt, penalty due thou shalt pay.