Six years ago to-day it was I came to Rome, with barely an obol of ready money, to make my fortune by my wits.

Zeus! But I can't but say I've succeeded.

A thousand sesterces here and five hundred there, and now and then a better stroke of fortune--politics, intrigues, gambling; all to the same end.

And now ?--oh, yes, my 'friends' would say I am very respectable, but quite poor--but they don't know how I have economized, and how my account stands with Sosthenes the banker at Alexandria.

My old acquaintance with Lucius Domitius was of some use.
A few more months of this life and I am away from this beastly Rome, to enjoy myself among civilized people." Pratinas went over to a large wooden chest with iron clasps, unlocked it, and gazed for a moment inside with evident satisfaction.