A Fragment of Catullus. Advice to Hemiera

SEE how the naked widow'd Vine,
That in the empty Vally grows,
That wants the happiness to twine
About a Husband's brooding Boughs:

Is without Virtue, Sap, or Juice,
Nor can it raise its drooping head,
Or one small bunch of Grapes produce,
Or gather strength to bud and spread.

Alas! it ne'er aspiring shoots,
For all the help of Wind and Weather,
The tallest Sprigs ev'n touch the Roots,
The Vine tyed neck and heels together.

The churlish Shepherds pluck it up,
Or without notice pass it by;
Nor will the Cattel deign to crop,
Or glance that way one greedy eye.

If wedded to an Elm, they strive
Who can their favours most improve,
With emulation make it thrive,
All proud to signalize their Love.

The blushing Rose, if let alone,
With shame will fade upon the Tree:
A Maidenhead thus over-grown,
Will superanuated be.