And now the Roman state was become so powerful, that it was a match for any of the neighbouring nations in war, but, from the paucity of women, its greatness could only last for one age of man; for they had no hope of issue at home, nor had they any intermarriages with their neighbours.

Therefore, by the advice of the Fathers, Romulus sent ambassadors to the neighbouring states to solicit an alliance and the privilege of intermarriage for his new subjects.

"That cities, like every thing else, rose from very humble beginnings.

That those which the gods and their own merit aided, gained great power and high renown.

That he knew full well, both that the gods had aided the origin of Rome, and that merit would not be wanting.