_Edward._ The two sons of Ancus were left under his guardianship. He
was a skillful politician, and found out the secret of making himself a
great favourite with the people. He used every artifice to set aside
these children, and to get himself elected in their stead. For this
purpose, he contrived to have them sent out of the city, and made a long
speech, mentioning his friendship for the people, the fortune he had
spent among them, together with his knowledge of their government, and
concluded by offering himself for their king. The people, with one
consent, elected him as their sovereign.

_Mr. B._ Pray, Louisa, can you tell me how he has governed the city he
had so unjustly obtained?

_Louisa._ Much more properly, papa, than might have been expected. The
first thing he did, was to add a hundred members to the senate: so that
it now consisted of three hundred. He was disposed to live in peace, but
the Latins and Sabines rose up against him: however, after a severe
conflict, he subdued them both. Peace being restored, he employed his
subjects in many useful works for the improvement of the city, that they
might not grow corrupted through indolence.

_Mr. B._ This conduct in Tarquinius, shows great wisdom; for it is very
true, that "idleness is the root of all evil." In states it foments
discord, and in private life occasions misery and ruin. Well,
Ferdinand, what have you to tell us?

_Ferdinand_. There is a curious account of Attius Navius, a famous
augur, (this signifies a kind of prophet, who could foretel future
events.) The Romans used to place great confidence in these people, and