Caesares: Single Verses III. — Single Verses on the Length of their Reigns

Julius the Divine, 'tis said, reigned three years. Augustus after ten lustres prolonged his rule for six years, and to thrice seven years Nero Claudius (Tiberius) added two. The third winter ended the bloody days of Gaius. Claudius dragged out a double span of seven years, and frightful Nero's total was as great, save that one consulship was lacking. Old Galba, profligate Otho, ill-famed Vitellius, a third summer knew not your rule in Latium . . . Vespasian lived out the full decade of his destiny. Thrice under Titus' sway was Janus wreathed with fresh laurels, fifteen times while his brother held the reins of cruelty.