Book IX, Epigram 4: Ad Domitianum

If thou shouldst challenge what is due to thee
From heaven, and its creditor wouldst bee;
If publique sale should be cryed through the sphaeres,
And th' gods sell all to satisfy arrears,
Atlas will banq'rrupt prove, nor one ounce bee
Reserved for Jupiter to treat with thee.
What canst thou for the Capitol receive?
Or for the honour of the Laurel-wreath?
Or what will Juno give thee for her shrine?
Pallas I pass, she waits on thee and thine.
Alcides, Phaebus, Pollux I slip by
And Flavia's Temple neighb'ring on the sky.
Caesar thou must forbear, and trust the heaven:
Jove's Chest has not enough to make all even.