Book VII, Epigram 53 (Ker)

You have sent me at the Saturnalia, Umber, all the presents the five days have contributed for you, twice six three-leaved tablets, and seven toothpicks; these a sponge, a napkin, and a cup accompanied, and a half-peck of beans, together with a wicker crate of Picenian olives, and a black flagon of Laletanian must; and there came some small Syrian figs, together with dried prunes, and a jar heavy with the weight of Libyan figs. I hardly think these presents in all were worth thirty sesterces, and yet eight hulking Syrians carried them! How much more conveniently, with no labour, might a boy have brought five pounds of silver plate!