Cleomenes (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1917. Excerpt: ... CHAPTER XVIII THE UNVEILING OF "MAIDENHOOD" THE day had dawned on which the statue was to be delivered to Caesar. It was the painful duty of Cleomenes to provide a most elaborate banquet for the young Emperor. While ordering that magnificent menu, he ardently wished Nero would choke, or that on the way he would break his neck; but the gods declined to interfere with the pleasures of these mortals. The great triclinium was ablaze with lights; the flaming torches were reflected in massive chalices, jewelled flagons, and cups of burnished gold. Every pillar was festooned with myrtle and ivy, and the tables were almost hidden beneath the flowery garlands that decorated them. In the beautiful atrium the statues were crowned with pink flowers. Not even a cushion was allowed to destroy the colour scheme. The harmony and blending of the exquisite colour of this room made it the envy of every one in Rome, for it was conceded to be the most beautiful room in the city. It was all soft pink and white; walls, ceiling, floors, and pillars carried out the artistic effect. The lamp shades were of pink glass and even the fountain threw rose coloured water--an effect produced by tiny lamps cunningly hidden in the surrounding foliage. In the vestibule lay wreaths of fragrant roses waiting to decorate the heads of the expected guests. A blast from a centurion's trumpet announced the arrival of Caesar, and soon the wheels of chariots rolling under the portico were heard. Slaves bearing lighted torches hastened to conduct the Imperial guest to the vestibule where Nero was met by Cleomenes, who knelt and offered him, on bended knee, a golden salver containing the keys of his villa. This signified that the house and all in it were at the service of the Emperor. With a gracious w...