Horace (Quintus Horatius Flaccus) - 2.5.5. lyrics

‘Don't be casual, but don't show excessive zeal. The garrulous offend those who are dour and moody: Yet don't be overly quiet. Act Davus in Comedy, Stand there head bowed, like one with a lot to fear. Proceed attentively: if the breeze stiffens, warn him To cover his blessed head carefully, use your shoulder To make a way for him through the crowd: give ear When he chatters. Is his desire for praise a nuisance? Praise, till he lifts his arms skywards crying: “Enough!” Inflate the swollen bladder with overblown language. And when he frees you from long and careful service And, awake for sure, you hear the words: “One fourth Shall Ulysses inherit,” let fall now and then: “Is my Friend Dama no more?”, “Where's one so firm and loyal?” And weep for him a little if you can. You can hide Any joy your face betrays. If the tomb should be left To your discretion, don't be mean with its construction: Let the neighbours praise the handsome funeral. And if An older co-heir happens to give a grave-yard cough Say if he'd like to buy any inherited house or land You'd be happy to knock it down to him for cash. But Queen Proserpina calls me: live long, and farewell!'