Carmen Circulare

Q. H. Flaccus Dellius, that car which, night and day, Lightnings and thunders arm and scourge-- Tumultuous down the Appian Way-- Be slow to urge. Though reckless Lydia bid thee fly, And Telephus o'ertaking jeer, Nay, sit and strongly occupy The lower gear. They call, the road consenting, "Haste!"-- Such as delight in dust collected-- Until arrives (I too have raced! ) The unexpected. What ox not doomed to die alone, Or inauspicious hound, may bring Thee 'twixt two kisses to the throne Of Hades' King, I cannot tell; the Furies send No warning ere their bolts arrive. 'Tis best to reach our chosen end Late but alive.