The Roman Forum.—An opening in the ground. M. Curtius, Soothsayers, and a vast concourse of Citizens.
Cit.—Place ingot upon ingot, till the mass exceed
The bulk of Croesus' wealth, or Sardanapalus' pile.
Let every Roman contribution bring
An offering worthy of his house, since what
Is valued most must in the gulf be cast,
To save us from an overwhelming death.
A richer treasure than the gorgeous Xerxes knew
Will we entomb.
Cur.—How base the offering that were made in gold.