the CHRISTIANS, then a small sect, made up chiefly of the poorer
people, were accused of the crime, and persecuted without mercy. They
were often enclosed in fagots covered with pitch, and burned alive.

In rebuilding Rome, Nero took every precaution against the recurrence
of a conflagration. Broad regular streets replaced the narrow winding
alleys. The new houses were limited in height, built partly of hard
stone, and protected by open spaces and colonnades. The water supply
was also carefully regulated.

In addition to rebuilding the city, Nero gratified his love for the
magnificent by erecting a splendid palace, called the GOLDEN HOUSE.
Its walls were adorned with gold, precious stones, and masterpieces of
art from Greece. The grounds around were marvellous in their meadows,
lakes, groves, and distant views. In front was a colossal statue of
Nero himself, one hundred and ten feet high.

Conspiracies having been formed in which Seneca and Lucan were
implicated, both men were ordered to take their own lives. Nero's life
after this became still more infamous. In a tour made in Greece, he
conducted himself so scandalously that even Roman morals were shocked,
and Roman patience could endure him no longer. The Governor of Hither
Spain, GALBA, proclaimed himself Emperor, and marched upon Rome.
Verginius, the Governor of Upper Germany, also lent his aid to the
insurrection. The Senate proclaimed Nero a public enemy, and condemned
him to death. He fled from the city and put an end to his life, June
9, 68, just in time to escape capture. His statues were broken down,
his name everywhere erased, and his Golden House demolished. With him
ended the Claudian line of Emperors.