A chorus of voices supported his words, but Nero refused at first.

It was not a question of courage alone, he said, though that failed him always.

The gods knew what efforts every success cost him.

He did not avoid them, however, for it was needful to do something for art; and besides, if Apollo had gifted him with a certain voice, it was not proper to let divine gifts be wasted.

He understood, even, that it was his duty to the State not to let them be wasted.