Book II, Epigram 69 (Ker)

Unwillingly you dine out, you say, Classicus. If you don't lie, Classicus, may I be hanged! Even Apicius himself was glad to go out to dinner; when he dined at home he was the more depressed. Yet if you go unwillingly, Classicus, why do you go? "I am obliged," you say: 'tis true; Selius52 is also obliged. See, Melior asks you, Classicus, to a grand dinner. Where are your fine professions? If you are a man, come, refuse!