But if it be so as Labeo saith, that this word Hora is rightly derived of the Greeke verbe ὁρμᾶν or παρορμᾶν, which signifieth to incite or provoke; consider better, whether this word Orator also, that is to say, one who stirrith up, exhorteth, encourageth, and adviseth the people, as a prompt and ready counseller, be not derived likewise in the same sort, and not of ἀρα or εὐχὴ, that is to say, praier and supplication, as some would have it.
47.
Wherefore founded Romulus the temple of Vulcane without the citie of Rome?
Is it for the jealousie (which as fables do report) Vulcane had of Mars, because of his wife Venus: and so Romulus being reputed the sonne of Mars, would not vouchsafe him to inhabit and dwell in the same citie with him? or is this a meere foolerie and senselesse conceit?
But this temple was built at the first, to be a chamber and parlour of privie counsell for him and Tatius who reigned with him; to the end that meeting and sitting there in consultation together with the Senatours, in a place remote from all troubles and hinderances, they might deliberate as touching the affaires of State with ease and quietnesse.
Or rather, because Rome from the very first foundation was subject to fire by casualtie, hee thought good to honour this god of fire in some sort, but yet to place him without the walles of the citie.
48.
What is the reason, that upon their festivall day called Consualia, they adorned with garlands of flowers as well their asses as horses, and gave them rest and repose for the time?
Is it for that this solemnitie was holden in the honour of Neptune surnamed Equestris, that is to say, the horseman? and the asse hath his part of this joyfull feast, for the horses sake?
Or, because that after navigation and transporting of commodities by sea was now found out and shewed to the world, there grew by that meanes (in some sort) better rest and more ease to poore labouring beasts of draught and carriage.