There
is no more even of the hay I yesterday purchased to be obtained for the
most extravagant bribes. Those still possessing the smallest supplies
of provision guard and hide them with the most jealous care. I have
done nothing but obtain for the consumption of the few slaves who yet
remain faithful in the house this small store of dogs' hides, reserved
from the public distribution of some days since in the square of the
Basilica of St. John.'
And the freedman, with an air of mingled triumph and disgust, produced
as he spoke his provision of dirty skins.
'What supplies have we still left in our possession?' demanded Vetranio,
after drinking a deep draught of the Falernian, and motioning his
servant to place his treasured burden out of sight.
'I have hidden in a secure receptacle, for I know not how soon hunger
may drive the slaves to disobedience,' rejoined Carrio, 'seven bags of
hay, three baskets stocked with salted horse-flesh, a sweetmeat-box
filled with oats, and another with dried parsley; the rare Indian
singing birds are still preserved inviolate in their aviary; there is a
great store of spices, and some bottles of the Nightingale Sauce yet
remain.
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