Ad Melvinum (Epigr. II)
The Exchange of Years
The poet acknowledges the disparity in age between himself and his opponent, suggesting that the weight of their debate reverses their roles.
My age doesn't allow me to challenge you, veteran, nor to surpass you—yet the matter itself will do it. The cause will make up for the lesser number of years; thus you are now made young, and I, old. Look, while you stand, at how your age deserts you; and may my writings be filled with your gray hairs.
A Graceful Conclusion
The poet promises a pleasant disposition and offers to restore the opponent's youth once the conflict has concluded.
See, however, how pleasant I'll be! When the fight is over and the duel has reached its end, then, if you like, I'll return your fleeting time; that youth will be enough for my prayers.
Read the original Latin
Non mea fert aetas, ut te, veterane, lacessam; Non ut te superem: res tamen ipsa feret. Aetatis numerum supplebit causa minorem; Sic tu nunc juvenis factus, egoque senex. Aspice, dum perstas, ut te tua deserat aetas; Et mea sint canis scripta referta tuis. Ecce tamen quam suavis ero! cum, fine duelli, Clauserit extremas pugna peracta vices, Tum tibi, si placeat, fugientia tempora reddam; Sufficiet votis ista juventa meis.
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