1I cannot express in words, my lord, how much joy you have brought me in thinking me worthy of the right of three children. 1For although you granted it at the request of Julius Servianus, an excellent man and most devoted to you, yet I understand from your rescript too that you bestowed this on him the more gladly because he was asking on my behalf. 2I seem, then, to have attained the height of my wishes, since at the very beginning of your most fortunate principate you have shown that I am one of those who enjoy your particular favour; 2and all the more do I long for children, whom I wanted to have even in that most dismal age, as you may believe from my two marriages.
3But the gods knew better, who kept everything untouched for your goodness; 3I preferred to become a father at this time instead, when I should be both safe and happy.