Toronto January 26, 1973

It is the generous gift of the Frank Silva Family
Frank Silva
Olivia Silva
Elizabeth Silva
Frank Silva Junior

Camões was born about 1524, probably in Lisbon several years after graduation from the University of Coimbra the young scholar became a soldier and, while at Ceuta in Marocco, lost an eye in battle.  After King John III sent him to India in 1553, he travelled extensively throughout the Portuguese Territories in Africa and Asia overcoming many perils and privations before returning safely to Lisbon in 1570.  During those difficult years he wrote the greatest work in Portuguese literature, the epic poem Os Lusiadas (i.e. "The Portuguese), in which he extols the glorious exploits of the Portuguese people who extended their civilization and the influence of Christianity around the world.  Camões died June 10, 1580, a victim of the plague.  His mortal remains lie in Honour at the Jeronimos Monastery in Lisbon.  Each year the day of his death is observed as a national holiday in Portugal.

Canio I
Stanza I

Armes and the men above the vulgar file,
Who from the western Lusitanian shore
Past ev'n beyond the Tarobanian Isle,
Through seas which never ship has sailed before.
Who (brave in action, patient in long toil.
Beyond what strength of human nature bore.)
'Mongst nations, under other stars. Acquir'd
A modern scepter which to heaven aspir'd.