'Courage,' 'wisdom,' 'success,'" he added, reading from the tablets.

"Naturally, and who, indeed, does not desire those things?
Here is one that says 'help'-- a great word, upon my soul! He that prays for help and not for favor, if he do his best, may have many good things--even 'courage,' 'wisdom,' 'success.' Keep at work and you shall have my help, Appius, and, I doubt not, that of the gods also.

Here is one--I like it best of all--it is that of the modest young Vergilius.

He would have a priceless thing.

And do you," he inquired, turning to the young knight, "desire this above all things?
Think; there is the distinction of place and power and honor--the ring of a legate would become you well!" "But, above all," said Vergilius, "I desire that I have written." "Beautiful boy!" said the cunning emperor.