Classic Poem

Methinks I see great Diocletian walk
In the Salonian garden's shade,
Which by his own imperial hands was made:
I see him smile methinks, as he does talk
With the ambassadors who come in vain,
T'entice him to a throne again.
If I, my friends', said he, "should to you show
All the delights which in these gardens grow,
'Tis likelier much that you should with me stay
Than 'tis that you should carry me away:
And trust me not, my friends, if every day
I walk not here with more delight
Than ever after the most happy fight,
In triumph to the Capitol I rode,
To thank the gods, and to be thought myself almost a god . . .'