That temple was one of the most graceful specimens of Roman architecture.

It was raised on a somewhat lofty podium; and between two flights of steps ascending to a platform stood the altar of the goddess.

From this platform another flight of broad stairs led to the portico, from the height of whose fluted columns hung festoons of the richest flowers.

On either side the extremities of the temple were placed statues of Grecian workmanship; and at a little distance from the temple rose the triumphal arch crowned with an equestrian statue of Caligula, which was flanked by trophies of bronze.
In the space before the temple a lively throng were assembled--some seated on benches and discussing the politics of the empire, some conversing on the approaching spectacle of the amphitheatre.

One knot of young men were lauding a new beauty, another discussing the merits of the last play; a third group, more stricken in age, were speculating on the chance of the trade with Alexandria, and amidst these were many merchants in the Eastern costume, whose loose and peculiar robes, painted and gemmed slippers, and composed and serious countenances, formed a striking contrast to the tunicked forms and animated gestures of the Italians.