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

3. A freedman of the emperor Claudius, was so highly favoured by this emperor that he was allowed to walk between the two consuls. He was the companion of the studies of Claudius; and on the death of his brother Seneca addressed to him a Consolatio, in which he bestows the highest praises upon his literary attainments. Polybius was put to death through the intrigues of Messalina, although he had been one of her paramours. (D. C. 9.29, 31; Suet. Cl. 28.)