61 Of all that men acquire, we know not any greater gain, Than that which by the birth of learned children men obtain.

62 Who children gain, that none reproach, of virtuous worth, No evils touch them, through the sev'n-fold maze of birth [generations].

63 'Man's children are his fortune,' say the wise; From each one's deeds his varied fortunes rise.

64 Than gods' [angels'] ambrosia sweeter far the food before men laid, In which the little hands of children of their own have play'd.

65 To parent sweet the touch of children dear; Their voice is sweetest music to his ear.

66 'The pipe is sweet,' 'the lute is sweet,' by them 't will be averred, Who music of their infants' lisping lips have never heard.

67 Sire greatest boon on son confers, who makes him meet In councils of the wise to fill the highest seat.

68 Their children's wisdom greater than their own confessed, Through the wide world is sweet to every human breast.

69 When mother hears him named 'fulfill'd of wisdom's lore,' Far greater joy she feels, than when her son she bore.

70 To sire, what best requital can by grateful child be done? To make men say, 'What merit gained the father such a son?'