He is ailing, your Catullus, Cornificius,
He is ailing, god knows I am, and it’s taking its toll,
Worse and worse, day and hour.
But have you relieved him with comforting words?
Though it would be very easy, no effort required.
I despair. Is this what I get for my affections?
Even a few comforting words might cheer me up,
Sadder than the tears of Simonides.