He employed many inventions to imitate thunder, and would frequently defy Jupiter, crying out with a speech of Homer, "Do you conquer me, or I will conquer you." He frequently pretended to converse in whispers with the statue of Jupiter, and usually seemed angry at its replies, threatening to send it back into Greece, whence it came. Sometimes, however, he would assume a better temper, and seem contented that Jupiter and he should dwell together in amity. 26. Of all his vices, prodigality was the most remarkable, and that which in some measure gave rise to the rest. The luxuries of former emperors were simplicity itself when compared to those which he practised. He contrived new ways of bathing, when the richest oils and most precious perfumes were lavished with the utmost profusion. His luxuries of the table were of immense value, and even jewels, as we are told, were dissolved in his sauces. He sometimes had services of pure gold presented before his guests, instead of meat, observing that a man should be an economist or an emperor. 27. The manner in which he maintained his horse will give some idea of his domestic extravagance. He built a stable of marble, and a manger of ivory; and whenever the animal, which he called Incita'tus, was to run in the race, he placed sentinels near its stable, the night preceding, to prevent its slumbers from being broken.[16] _Questions for Examination._ 1. What was the first measure of Sejanus? 2. Did the emperor yield to his persuasions? 3. What consequences ensued from this measure? 4. Who were the first sufferers? 5. Did Sejanus increase his influence? 6. Was this elevation permanent? 7. To what punishment was he condemned? 8. What occurred at his execution? 9. Was this the only victim to the cruelty of Tiberius? 10. How did Tiberius aggravate his cruelties? 11. Did these cruelties long continue? 12. How did he act on this? 13. Was he resigned to his fate? 14. What followed on this? 15. How was this news received? 16. Did Caligula boldly meet the consequences? 17. How was this averted? 18. What highly remarkable event happened in this reign? 19. Was his desire gratified? 20. What was the conduct of Caligula on this occasion? 21. By what acts did he display his pride? 22. Did his arrogance carry him farther than this? 23. Under what name did he assume divine honours? 24. Of what farther absurdities was he guilty? 25. Relate other follies of his? 26. What was his principal vice? 27. Give an instance of his domestic extravagance? SECTION V. For him no prayers are poured, no paeans sung, No blessings chanted from a nation's tongue.--_Brereton._