Amores II.7

Am I then to stand trial on new complaints for ever? Grant that I win, I am wearied of fighting my case so many times. If I have looked back on the highest rows of the marble theatre, you pick out one of the many women there as a ground for grievance; or if a fair beauty has looked on me with unspeaking face, you charge that in her face were unspoken signals. If I have praised some girl, poor me! your fingers make for my hair; if I pick Haws in her, you think I am hiding a crime. If my colour is good, you charge me with coolness toward you also; if bad, with dying of love for another.

I would I were even conscious of some wrong done! Those who have merited punishment bear it with even mind; but now you accuse me without reason, and by lending belief to every groundless notion yourself keep your ire from having weight. Look at the long-eared, pitiable ass, how slowly he moves, broken by never-ending blows!

And look now, a fresh charge! Cypassis, the deft girl that tires your hair, is east at me, accused of wronging her mistress' couch. Ye gods grant me better, if I have a mind to sin, than find my pleasure in a love of mean and despised lot! What man that is free would willingly mate with a slave, and clasp a waist that was cut with the lash? Add that her work is to dress your hair, and she pleases you with the ministry of her cunning hand; of course I would tamper with a servant so faithful to you! With what issue, except to be repulsed, and then betrayed? By Venus I swear, and by the bows of her winged boy, I am not guilty of the charge you bring!