About three o'clock, speaking in modern style, the program was concluded except the chariot-race.

The editor, wisely considerate of the comfort of the people, chose that time for a recess.

At once the vomitoria were thrown open, and all who could hastened to the portico outside where the restaurateurs had their quarters.

Those who remained yawned, talked, gossiped, consulted their tablets, and, all distinctions else forgotten, merged into but two classes--the winners, who were happy, and the losers, who were grum and captious.
Now, however, a third class of spectators, composed of citizens who desired only to witness the chariot-race, availed themselves of the recess to come in and take their reserved seats; by so doing they thought to attract the least attention and give the least offence.
Among these were Simonides and his party, whose places were in the vicinity of the main entrance on the north side, opposite the consul.
As the four stout servants carried the merchant in his chair up the aisle, curiosity was much excited.

Presently some one called his name.