* * * * *
_March 3, 65_: TO THE CAPTAIN OF POLICE: You imbecile! I order you to
burn out the Christians and you set fire to the entire city! Already my
palace is on fire! Consider yourself under arrest! Report to me after
you have the flames under control. Or perhaps you'd prefer throwing
yourself into the closest inferno and cheat me of the pleasure of
roasting you alive later!
NERO, Imp.
* * * * *
_March 3, 65_: TO THE EMPEROR: The city is engulfed, my Caesar! I shall
die fighting the flames. But what of you, my Emperor? I shall pray to
the Gods that you be spared my fate.
(signed) Papirius,