Book VI, Epigram 25 (Ker)

Marcelljnus, true offspring of a good father, you whom the numbing Bear covers with her Parrhasian car, hear what an old friend, and your father's, wishes for you, and keep these prayers in a remembering heart. See that your valour be wary; let no rash ardour bear you into the midmost fray of swords and savage spears. Let those who lack sense be eager for wars and fierce Mars; you can be your father's soldier and your Captain's too.