Prophecy (Vaticinium)

He often began to defend palatine cases in the great council of the King, whom the greatest in arms, Charles VIII, loved with a wonderful love because of the sudden strength of his wit in tottering affairs, by which the province of Narbonne rejoices in him as judge, because, dispensing laws to the peoples at the Sextian waters, he excels other judges just like another Aeacus. Whom also the king, to be revered with august majesty, powerful in war and peace, Louis, looking back with a friendly light, sent, once the leader of the mount, Polignac, had been sent with the gleaming lightning of arms to the Venetians to strengthen the treaties, so that he might speak as an orator. Who, after they were received and the prince's hall was opened, and it was granted to speak, Pallas sat in the heart of Accursius, the Graces in his limbs, and a Siren in his throat. The fathers were stunned; the illustrious Duke offered ready ears and brought forth a response with a sacred mouth. Then, a suppliant, testifying to the Triune God, the holy Senate and the Numen of the August Prince ratified the pious treaties of faith against the cruel enemies. But let Calliopea return to the digression, for if the fates allow, we shall sing of these and greater things. The milky fountain of eloquence, and the sweet refuge of poetry, and the greatest glory and hope of the Amasean Muse, Accursius runs to us, and thus he speaks: "Why do crowds harass your mind? Why does the worst custom of the mob please you, and the insane lust for profit? O wicked one, why have you been able to drive away the divine Muses?"