30.  Ap’pius, in the mean time, did all he could to quell the disturbances in the city; but finding the tumult incapable of controul, and perceiving that his mortal enemies, Vale’rius and Hora’tius, were the most active in opposition, at first attempted to find safety by flight; nevertheless, being encouraged by Op’pius, who was one of his colleagues, he ventured to assemble the senate, and urged the punishment of all deserters. 31.  The senate, however, was far from giving him the relief he sought for; they foresaw the dangers and miseries that threatened the state, in case of opposing the incensed army; they therefore despatched messengers to them, offering to restore their former mode of government. 32.  To this proposal all the people joyfully assented, and the army gladly obeying, now returned to the city, if not with the ensigns, at least with the pleasure of a triumphant entry. 33.  Ap’pius and Op’pius both died by their own hands in prison.  The other eight decemvirs went into exile; and Clau’dius, the pretended master of Virgin’ia, was ignominiously banished.

Questions for Examination.

1.  Did the Romans tamely submit to the tyranny of the decemviri?

2.  Relate the particulars of this transaction.

3.  What resolution did Appius form?

4.  Who was this maiden?

5.  What was Appius’s first determination?

6.  On what did he next resolve?

7.  To what means did he have recourse for the accomplishment of his purpose?

8.  Did Claudius undertake this base?

9.  Was the opposition of the people ultimately successful?

10.  How did Claudius attempt to make good his claims?

11.  What was the conduct of Appius on this occasion?

12.  How was this sentence received?

13.  What consequences were likely to ensue, and how were they averted?

14.  Was not this pretence a false one?

15.  By what means were his designs frustrated?

16.  Under what pretence did Virginius obtain leave of absence?

17 What measures did he take on his arrival?

18.  How was the trial conducted?

19.  How did Virginia support this trying scene?

20.  What was the general opinion of the auditors?

21.  Did the arguments of Virginius induce Appius to forego his iniquitous designs?

22.  Were his commands obeyed?

23.  What was the request of Virginius?

24.  Was this favour granted?

25.  Describe this affecting scene?

26.  What was the catastrophe?

27.  What followed?

28.  What use did he make of this dreadful circumstance?

29.  What was the effect of his address on the army?

30.  How was Appius employed in the mean time?

31.  Did the senate second his designs?

32.  Did the people accede to this proposal?