A thin field- mouse had by chance crept through a narrow cranny into a chest of grain; and, having feasted itself, in vain attempted to come out again, with its body now stuffed full. To which a weasel at a distance cries," If you would escape thence, repair lean to the narrow hole which you entered lean. "If I be addressed with this similitude, I resign all; neither do I, sated with delicacies, cry up the calm repose of the vulgar, nor would I change my liberty and ease for the riches of the Arabians. You have often commended me for being modest; when present you heard[ from me the appellations of] king and father, nor am I a word more sparing in your absence. Try whether I can cheerfully restore what you have given me. Not amiss[ answered] Telemachus, son of the patient Ulysses:" The country of Ithaca is not proper for horses, as being neither extended into champaign fields, nor abounding with much grass: Atrides, I will leave behind me your gifts,[ which are] more proper for yourself. "Small things best suit the small. No longer does imperial Rome please me, but unfrequented Tibur, and unwarlike Tarentum. 