_Mr. B._ Do you understand the signification of all the words, my dears? The children looked over it again. _Louisa. Predacious_ papa; I do not know the meaning of that word. _Ferdinand_. Oh, Louisa! I can tell you that. A predacious animal is one that preys upon others. _Louisa_. Thank you, Ferdinand. _Conical_? Does not that mean, in the form of a sugar-loaf? "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.