The same.
We cannot get the smallest fish for money;
And for a bunch of parsley we must fight,
As 'twere the Isthmian games: then, should a hare
Make its appearance, 'tis at once caught up;
A partridge or a lark, by Jupiter!
We can't so much as see them on the wing,
And all on your account: then as for wine,
You've raised the price so high we cannot taste it.—Anon.
Philippides. (Book vi. § 17, p. 363.)
It grieves me much to see the world so changed,
And men of worth, ingenious and well-born,
Reduced to poverty, while cunning knaves;
The very scum of the people, eat their fish,
Bought for two oboli, on plates of silver,
Weighing at least a mina; a few capers,
Not worth three pieces of brass-money, served
In lordly silver-dish, that weighs, at least,
As much as fifteen drachmas. In times past
A little cup presented to the Gods
Was thought a splendid offering; but such gifts
Are now but seldom seen,—and reason good,
For 'tis no sooner on the altar placed,
Than rogues are watching to purloin it thence.—Anon.
Alexis. (Book vi. § 28, p. 372.)
I'm ready, at the slightest call, to sup
With those who may think proper to invite me.
If there's a wedding in the neighbourhood,
I smell it out, nor scruple to be there
Sans invitation; then, indeed, I shine,
And make a full display of all my wit,
'Till the guests shake with laughter; I take care
To tickle well the master of the feast;
Should any strive to thwart my purpose, I
At once take fire, and load him with reproach
