Search This Blog

Tuesday, February 22, 2011

in Thermis

   Near the baths was the temple, built by the Roman craftsmen. King Cogidubnus was sitting in front of the temple with many chiefs and slaves. Quintus was standing near the chair of the king. A band of soldiers was guarding the king and the chiefs. In front of the temple was a huge altar, which all were looking towards. Memor, wearing a toga with purple border, was standing near the altar.
  Two priests, leading black lambs, proceeded slowly to the altar. After the king gave the sign, one of the priests sacrificed a lamb. Then Memor, who was now trembling and sweating, to the other priest,
  "You order," he said. "all to look at. Say to me: what do you see?
  The priest, after inspecting the liver of the lamb,  anxiously,
  "The liver is lead-colored," he said. "Surely this death is significant? Surely the death of a famous man is significant?"
  Memor, who was growing pale and terrified, replied to the priest.
  "No. The goddess Sulis, who is accustomed to prayers of the invalid, sends us all the best."
  Having spoken the words, he turned himself around and shouted to Cogidubnus,
  "All are the best! All miracle remedies are significant to you, becuase the goddess Minerva favors you.
  Then Memor led the king and the chiefs into the changing-room.

1 comment: