Book IV, Epigram 54 (Ker)

O thou, to whom it has been given to reach the Tarpeian crown of oak, and to wreathe worthy locks with peerless leafage, if thou art wise use to the full, Colliiius, all thy days, and ever deem that each is thy last. The three wool-spinning sisters it has been no man's lot to move by prayer; they keep their appointed day. Though thou wert richer than Crispus, more firm of soul than Thrasea's self, more refined even than sleek Melior, yet Lachesis addeth nought to her tale of wool, and the sisters' spindles she unwinds, and ever one of the three cuts the thread.