Seeking often in mind with spirit eager of studyHow I could send thee songs chaunted of Battiadés,So thou be softened to us, nor any attempting thou ventureShot 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.