Epitaph On A Wife (1959-60)

This is a translation of an early inscription found in Rome and dating from about 140 B.C. It commemorates the virtues of a Roman wife and mother, and one likes to think that it was written by her husband.

I say little, stranger, therefore attend ye here,
Where, entombed, is the woman whom I held dear.
Her beauty is now o'ershadowed by stone devoid of such;
Her parents named her Claudia; she loved her husband much.
One of her sons yet lives - now in mourning:
Graceful were her movements and wonderful her speaking.
In spinning wool she willingly spent each day.
This is my praise; stranger, be on your way.

R. E. HOWES, IVA.