The mysteries of Isis, amongst the ancient Egyptians, were more simple
than they are generally supposed to be; the sacred fires being trimmed
with tow and turpentine every evening, and not being perpetual, but
lighted with a lucifer, when wanted to juggle the multitude. The High
Priests received six shillings a week for keeping them in order; and
when the ceremonies were over, they frequently changed their costume and
mingled with the crowd, to assist the deception. Celibacy was not
insisted on, as several were married men, with families, residing in
Lambeth.
Although in the chariot and gladiatorial contests of the Egyptians
desperate struggles took place, yet all animosity ceased when the fight
was over. Many of them, as they prepared for the contest, shared the
Memphian baked potato, or the cold without, with much good-fellowship;
and it was not uncommon, after the fight, to see the victor tending the
foe whom he had forced to bite the dust until his mouth was full of it,
and it required washing down with beer.