As time advanced, and as the series of events attracted to Rome almost all the riches of the world, the luxury of the table became incredible. Every thing was eaten--the grass-hopper and the ostrich, the squirrel and the wild-boar--all imaginable vegetables were put in requisition. Armies and travellers put all the world in requisition. The most distinguished Roman citizens took pleasure, not only in the cultivation of fruits once known, such as pears, apples, etc., but sought out things Lucullus never dreamed of. These importations which naturally had a great influence, prove at least that the impulse was general, that each one sought to contribute to the enjoyment of those around him. Our drinks were not the object of less attention, nor of less attentive cares. The Romans were delighted with the wines of Italy, Greece, and Sicily. As they estimated their value from the year in which they were made, we may understand Cicero's much abused line, Oh tortuna tam, natura, me consule Roman. This was not all. In consequence of an instinct hitherto referred to, an effort was made to make them more highly perfumed, and flowers, aromatics, etc., were infused. Such things which the Romans called condita, must have had a very bad effect on the stomach. Thus the Romans came to dream of alcohol, which was not discovered until long after they were born. RESURRECTION OF LUCULLUS. The glorious days of old might arise again, and nothing but a Lucullus is needed, to bring this about. Let us fancy that any man, known to be rich, should wish to celebrate any great act, and give in this manner an occasion for a famous entertainment. Let us suppose that he appeals to every one to adorn his entertainment, and orders every possible resource to be prepared. Let him make every imaginable preparation and Lucullus would be as nothing compared with the civilized world as it is. Both the Romans and the Athenians had beds to eat on. They achieved the purpose but indirectly. At first they used beds only for the sacred festivals offered to the gods. The magistrates and principal men, adopted the custom, and ere long, it became general and was preserved until in the beginning of the fourth century. These couches were at first, only boxes filled with straw, and covered with skins. Gradually, however, they became more luxurious, and were made of the most precious woods, inlaid with ivory, and sometimes with gems. Their cushions were soft and their covers magnificently embroidered. People only laid down on the left elbow. Three usually slept together. This the Romans called lectisternium. It is not a very bad name. In a physical point of view incubitation demands a certain exhibition of power to preserve equlibrium, and is not without a degree of pain; the elbow supporting an undue proportion of the weight of the body.