Book X, Epigram 2: Ad eundem

My tenth Book's care once hast'ned from my hand
Is now revok'd againe to be new scann'd,
Part hath been publick, but they new smooth'd are,
O favour both, the last's the greater share.
Reader, these riches when Rome gave to mee,
Shee said no greater we can give to thee.
By these thou shalt escape oblivion,
And live in thy best part when thou art gone.
The Fig-tree may Messala's Marble weare,
And base Mule-drivers Crispus Statues jeare,
No theft can papers hurt, no age thrust by,
These Monuments alone can never dye.