[9] Procopius, Anecd., 15.
[10] Procopius, Anecd., 15. This Porphyrio, such was the popular name bestowed on the monster, must have been a cachalot or sperm whale, which inhabits tropical and sub-tropical seas. It grows to a length of 50 or 60 feet. The males fight viciously among themselves. Small ships have been damaged by the animal when provoked by an attack.
[11] Nov. viii, 1. Officials, on taking office, had to swear to Justinian and Theodora conjointly; ibid., jusjur.; cf. Nov. xxviii, 5; xxix, 4; xxx, 6, 11. Zonaras remarks, "In the time of Justinian there was not a monarchy, but a dual reign. His partner for life was not less potent, perhaps even more so than himself," xiv, 6; cf. Paul Silent., i, 62. The reign has been compared to that of Louis XIV; but the character of that monarch was more evident in Theodora than in her husband.
[12] "In fact she was much abler than he was and highly ingenious in finding new and varied expedients." Zonaras, loc. cit.
[13] As Messalina, the elder Faustina, Soaemias, etc.; see chap. iv.
[14] Procopius, Anecd., 2.
[15] Ibid., 15.
[16] Procopius, Anecd., 30.
[17] Ibid.
[18] Ibid., 10; Evagrius, iv, 10; Victor Ton.