Virtus

All virtues were made deities among the Romans. Mar cell us erected two temples, one to Virtue, and the other to Honour. They were built in such a manner, that to see the temple of Honour it was nece ary to pa through that of Virtue; a happy allegory among a nation free and independent. The principal Virtues were distinguished, each by their attire. Prudence was known by her rule, and her pointing to a globe at her feet; Temperance had a bridle; Justice had an equal balance, and Fortitude leant against her sword; Honesty was clad in a transparent vest; Modesty appeared veiled; Clemency wore an olive branch, and Devotion threw incense upon an altar; Tranquillity was seen to lean on a column; Health was known by her serpent, Liberty by her cap, and Gaiety by her myrtle. Cicero , de Natura Deorum , bk. 2 , ch. 23 .— Plautus , Amphitruo , Prologue .— Livy , bk. 29 , ch. 11 .— Valerius Maximus , bk. 1 , ch. 1 .— Augustine , City of God , bk. 4 , ch. 20 .