He went to the atrium, then, and began to examine with pleasure the form of the trainer, an ex-gladiator, who seemed to fill the whole place with his immensity.

Croton had stipulated as to the price of the trip, and was just speaking to Vinicius.
"By Hercules! it is well, lord," said he, "that thou hast sent to-day for me, since I shall start to-morrow for Beneventum, whither the noble Vatinius has summoned me to make a trial, in presence of Caesar, of a certain Syphax, the most powerful negro that Africa has ever produced.
Dost thou imagine, lord, how his spinal column will crack in my arms, or how besides I shall break his black jaw with my fist ?" "By Pollux! Croton, I am sure that thou wilt do that," answered Vinicius.
"And thou wilt act excellently," added Chilo.

"Yes, to break his jaw, besides! That's a good idea, and a deed which befits thee.

But rub thy limbs with olive oil to-day, my Hercules, and gird thyself, for know this, you mayst meet a real Cacus.

The man who is guarding that girl in whom the worthy Vinicius takes interest, has exceptional strength very likely." Chilo spoke thus only to rouse Croton's ambition.
"That is true," said Vinicius; "I have not seen him, but they tell me that he can take a bull by the horns and drag him wherever he pleases." "Oi!" exclaimed Chilo, who had not imagined that Ursus was so strong.
But Croton laughed, from contempt.