Even Telephus the dandy, whose complexion was his pride,
Now adopts the "bearded Cato" as his model and his guide.
He has rented an allotment, where he hoes and sows and digs,
Shuns the company of ladies, and is busy raising pigs.
Nobler signs of public spirit I delightedly remark
In the fact that good Maecenas recently ploughed up his park,
And in patriotic answer to the Emperor's appeals
Turned his artificial waters into hatcheries for eels.
Flora bows to bustling Ceres; unobserved the violet blows;
And the satisfying parsnip triumphs o'er the blushing rose;
Fragrant and exotic blossoms now no longer scent the air,
For the humblest vegetables have usurped the gay parterre.
Once, O Varus, I besought you "first and foremost plant the vine";
Now my former predilection I reluctantly resign.
Rather cultivate your orchard; apples, raw or baked or stewed,
Are not merely rare refreshing fruit, but highly wholesome food.
Far too long relying largely on imported foodstuffs, Rome
Learns at last to stock her larder and her granaries from home,
35
