They had rubbed themselves all over with oil, so that their joints might be soft and supple, and also that their adversary should not be able to obtain a firm hold when they grappled together.

They made several obeisances to the spectators, began with minor feats of wrestling, and frequently stopped for a few moments in order to husband their strength.

Then the battle began afresh, and became hotter and hotter, till at length one of the combatants was hailed as victor by the shouting mob.

He is declared the conqueror who succeeds in throwing his opponent in such a manner that he can sit down upon him as on a horse.

A combat of this kind usually lasts a quarter of an hour.