Alciato's Book of Emblems

Emblem 157

On too early death

A youth, quite lovely and distinguished throughout the city, who with his beauty attracted tender maidens and wrung their hearts, died before his time. He deserves to be mourned by none more than you, Arestius, to whom he was joined in chaste love. You therefore put up a tomb to him, a monument to your profound sadness, your voice reaching thus in mourning to the stars: "You depart without me my beloved? Shall we go forth together no more? Will you not while away with me pleasant leisure hours in affection? No, the earth will cover you, and the face of the Gorgon and the dolphins will provide the mournful symbols of your fate."