Catullus 1

To whom do I give my new little book, charming (and) just polished with a dry pumice. To you , Cornelius, for you were accustomed to think my scribbles were something. Now then when you dared, one man, to set out whole age of the Italians in three scrolls. . .learned, by Jupiter, and laborious! Therefore have for yourself this something of a little book—which, whatever (it is), o patron maiden, may it remain more than one constant generation.