This small guidebook will be invaluable
For preparing to visit the Earl’s home
In 1753. I will look for the Apollo who is
Not only beautiful but good humored
(I imagine he regrets releasing plague
Among the Greeks besieging Troy;
He was a younger god then and prickly
Always trying to make folk forget his start
As the only god who understood mice.)
There, too, will be curious objects of virtu
And bustos of Vibius Varus, Caligula,
And Marcia Octacilla. In the Great Hall
May be seen “The Statue of Didia Clara,
Daughter to the Emperor Didius Julianus,
Bigger than the Life, sitting in a Chair. She
Holds a Senatorial Roll, in a genteel Posture.
The Drapery of her Cloathing is very fine.”
Also, there will be two sarcophagi
One of them with Corinthian columns,
Two griffins and a door. This door
Is partially open allowing the occupant
To wander around the Elysian Fields or,
In case of rain, idle away a few hours
Haunting his descendants.
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