"It does, my dear," replied her father: "do you understand the meaning of pectoral fins?"
"No, I do not," answered Louisa.
Mr. B. They are fins growing by the breasts, and serve them to clasp their young, as well as for the purposes of feet.
"I am not certain that I understand the meaning of the word cartilaginous, but believe it signifies, that the teeth of the whale are sometimes formed of gristle, instead of bone," said Ferdinand.
Mr. B. You are quite right, my love; and now, if you fully comprehend the meaning of all the words, we will attend to our Roman history a little. Let me hear what more you have read respecting Tarquin and his infamous son.
Edward. We have finished the account of the regal government. Tarquin and his son behaved so basely, that the people could no longer bear their tyranny and oppression, but boldly threw off the yoke. We must, however, first tell you, papa, what became of the poor inhabitants of Gabii, who had fallen victims to their credulity, and to the confidence they placed in the perfidious Sextus. When they saw themselves thus totally at the mercy of the tyrant, they fell into the deepest despair, expecting to suffer the most cruel treatment. Their misfortunes were not, however, so great as their fears. Tarquin thought it most for his own interest, to act with some degree of humanity towards this betrayed people, and none of the citizens were put to death by his order. He granted them their lives and liberties, making Sextus their king. Tarquin, after this, continued for some time to enjoy profound peace at home. The Romans became accustomed to the yoke of their imperious master, and groaned in silence under his oppressions.
"Let me give the account of that curious woman, who came with her great books, if you please, Edward," said Ferdinand.
"With all my heart," returned Edward.
Ferdinand. Just at this time, when Tarquin was enjoying profound peace, an unknown woman came to court, loaded with nine large volumes, which she offered to sell for a great sum of money. On Tarquin's refusing to give it, she went away and burnt three of the books. Some time after this she returned to court, and offered the remaining six for the same sum. The people then thought her a mad woman, and drove her away with contempt. She again withdrew, and burnt four more, still returning with the remainder, and demanding the same price as she had done for the whole nine volumes. Tarquin now grew quite curious to know the cause of this strange proceeding, and put the books into the hands of his augurs, to have them examined. They found them to be the oracles of the Sybil of Cumae, and declared them an invaluable treasure. Tarquin, therefore, ordered the woman to be paid the sum she demanded. She exhorted the Romans to preserve her books with great care, and afterwards disappeared.
Mrs. B. What became of these mysterious books? Can you tell us, Louisa?