ravagance of the nobles, and causing a marked improvement in the
general tone of society. He removed from the Senate many improper
members, replacing them by able men, among whom was AGRICOLA. In 70 he
put down a formidable rebellion in Gaul; and when his son Titus returned
from the capture of Jerusalem, (Footnote: Jerusalem was taken in
70, after a siege of several months, the horrors of which have been
graphically detailed by the Jewish historian Josephus, who was present
in the army of Titus. The city was destroyed, and the inhabitants sold
into slavery.) they enjoyed a joint triumph. The Temple of Janus was
closed, and peace prevailed during the remainder of his reign.

Much money was spent on public works, and in beautifying the city. A
new Forum was built, a Temple of Peace, public baths, and the famous
COLOSSEUM was begun, receiving its name from the Colossus, a statue of
Nero, which had stood near by.

On the whole, Vespasian was active and prudent in public affairs, frugal
and virtuous in private life. The decade of his reign was marked by
peace and general prosperity.

One of the ablest men of this age was AGRICOLA (37-93). Born at Forum
Julii in Gaul, he was made Governor of Aquitania by Vespasian in 73.
Four years later he was Consul, and the next year was sent to Britain,
which he conquered, and governed with marked ability and moderation,
increasing the prosperity of the people and advancing their
civilization. He remained in Britain until 85, when he was recalled. His
life was written by his son-in-law, the historian Tacitus.

TITUS (79-81).

Vespasian was succeeded by his son TITUS, who emulated the virtues of
his father. He finished the Colosseum, begun by Vespasian, and built a
triumphal arch to commemorate his victories over the Jews. This arch,
called the ARCH OF TITUS, was built on the highest part of the Via
Sacra, and on its walls was carved a representation of the sacred
candlestick of the Jewish temple, which can still be seen.

It was during this reign that HERCULANEUM and POMPEII were destroyed by
an eruption of Vesuvius. In this eruption perished PLINY THE ELDER, the
most noted writer of his day. His work on _Natural History_, the only
one of his writings that is preserved, shows that he was a true student.
His passion for investigation led him to approach too near the volcano,
and caused his death.

DOMITIAN (81-96).

DOMITIAN was the opposite of his brother Titus,--cruel, passi