Why did our emperor get up so early, and why is he sitting at the city's main gate on his throne, in state, wearing the crown?
Because the barbarians are coming today and the emperor is waiting to receive their leader. He has even prepared a scroll to give him, replete with titles, with imposing names. |
Why have our two consuls and praetors come out today wearing their embroidered, their scarlet togas? Why have they put on bracelets with so many amethysts, and rings sparkling with magnificent emeralds? Why are they carrying elegant canes beautifully worked in silver and gold? |
All images © 1998 John Mahoney/Log Cabin Chronicles/8.98