A Dictionary of Greek and Roman biography and mythology

Smith, William

A Dictionary of Greek and Roman biography and mythology. William Smith, LLD, ed. 1890

tribune of the plebs in the third year after the consulship of Cato, B. C. 181, was the author of a sumtuaria lex, limiting the number of guests to be present at entertainments. When attempts were afterwards made to repeal this law, Cato offered the strongest opposition, and delivered a speech in defence of the law, which is referred to by the grammarians. (Macrob. Saturn. 2.13 ; Festus, s. vv. Obsonitavere, Percunctatem; Schol. Bob. in Cic. pro Sest. p. 310, ed. Orelli; Meyer, Orat. Rom. Franlqenta, p. 91, &c., 2nd ed.