Note 4 — Chapter IV

“Vestal.” The priestesses of Vesta. A temple to this goddess stood in Rome, in the Forum, and over the temple presided four, afterward six, virgins, who were chosen to the office at first by the kings, and later by lot. They entered on this service when no older than ten years, and served thirty years; the first ten being spent in learning, the second ten in performing, and the third in teaching, their duties. A vow of chastity was taken, the violation of which was punished by being buried alive. The chief duty of the virgins was to keep the fire on the altar of the goddess ever burning. After the term had expired they might marry, although it was considered unlucky.