1. proficiscentem:
probably from some country resort, where Horace was at the time.
2. signata:
merely made into a packet. Vini:
Vinius Asella (Porphyrio), or C. Vinius Fronto (Acron), otherwise
unknown, some humble friend of the poet.
3. si validus,
etc.: i.e. the bearer is to consider the health, spirits,
and even the desire of the great man.
4. studio
nostri, from zeal in my behalf.
pecces: i.e.
by importunity. Cf. opera, vehemente,
and sedulus (over-earnest).
6. si te
forte, etc.: the poet, with a jocose allusion to the
name of the messenger, warns him against too great haste in performing
his task.
9. fabula:
cf. Epod. II.8.
10. viribus,
etc.: i.e. hasten as much as you like on the way, but upon
arriving show your grace, and avoid clumsy behavior which might offend
the fastidious court.
12. sic:
correlative with ne. ne:
instead of ut non, as often with ita,
where the clause which is a result may also be regarded as a purpose.
Probably the construction is to be explained as a paratactic description
of the sic given in the form of a command. "In
this way, namely, don't carry, etc." sub
ala, etc.: the three ways of carrying the packet under
his arm, which he is to avoid, are (a) the awkward vigor
of the rustic who fears his burden may escape; (b) the timid
concealment of the slave who fears discovery; and (c) the
tight grip of the humble guest on his hat and sandals, who is dazed
by the unaccustomed splendor.
14. Pyrria:
said to be a slave in a comedy of Titinius.
15. pilleolo,
soleas: the humble guest, having no slave, would carry
his own out-door costume.
16. ne
volgo, etc.: the messenger is also warned against babbling
on the way and boasting of the value and importance of his mission.
18. oratus:
i.e. with questions as to his mission.
19. cave:
retaining the short final syllable of comedy, and doubtless also of
conversation; cf. cauneas (cave
ne eas). frangas:
returning to the play upon the name of the messenger. As his wares
are not fragile, the meaning must be general. |
