to marry, and the consent of the parents or persons in authority was
given, the marriage contract was drawn up and signed by both parties.
The wedding day was then fixed upon. This could not fall upon the
Kalends, Nones, or Ides of any month, or upon any day in May or
February. The bride was dressed in a long white robe, with a bridal
veil, and shoes of a bright yellow color. She was conducted in the
evening to her future husband's home by three boys, one of whom
carried before her a torch, the other two supporting her by the arm.
They were accompanied by friends of both parties. The groom received
the bride at the door, which she entered with distaff and spindle in
hand. The keys of the house were then delivered to her. The day ended
with a feast given by the husband, after which the bride was conducted
to the bridal couch, in the atrium, which was adorned with flowers. On
the following day another feast was given by the husband, and the wife
performed certain religious rites.

The position of the Roman woman after marriage was very different from
that of the Greek. She presided over the whole household, educated her
children, watched over and preserved the honor of the house, and
shared the honors and respect shown to her husband.


FUNERALS.

When a Roman was at the point of death, his nearest relative present
endeavored to catch the last breath with his mouth. The ring was
removed from the dying person's hand, and as soon as he was dead his
eyes and mouth were closed by the nearest relative, who called upon
the deceased by name, exclaiming "Farewell!" The body was then washed,
and anointed with oil and perfumes, by slaves or undertakers. A small