"Rather gain one prize from the Choragus than ten from the Gymnasiarch." p. 219.
The first presided over musical and literary competition; the last over athletic games.
"The statue of Persephone, (that ominous bridal gift.)" p. 226.
While Persephone was gathering flowers, she was seized by Pluto, and carried to the regions of the dead, over which she presided. Hence the hair of the deceased was consecrated to her, and her name invoked at funerals.
"Milza sneezed aloud." p. 227.
This was considered a lucky omen; particularly if the sound came from the direction of the right hand.