------
Though according to Cicero, there were no less than five gods of this name;
yet to the son of Jupiter and Maia, the actions of all the others have been
probably attributed, as he is the most famous and the best known.
Mercury was the messenger of the gods and the patron of travellers and
shepherds; he conducted the souls of the dead into the infernal regions,
and not only presided over orators and merchants, but was also the god of
thieves, pickpockets, and all dishonest persons.
--------"A babe, all babes excelling,
A schemer subtle beyond all belief,
A shepherd of thin dreams, a cow stealing,
A night watching and door waylaying thief."