undisium is stated to have been
productive of entirely satisfactory results. It is said that Nero now
thoroughly understands the situation, and is resolved to remodel His
conduct accordingly. Tension is greatly alleviated.

* * * * *

I cannot more graphically summarize the present improved situation than
by quoting the headlines in the _Acta Diurna_.

GREAT REVIEW OF PRAETORIANS
OUTSIDE THE SENATE HOUSE.
RESTORED RELATIONS BETWEEN
CONSCRIPT FATHERS AND EMPEROR.
HIS MAJESTY IN THE SENATE.
AVE CAESAR OPTIME MAXIME.
GREAT ENTHUSIASM.
DIVINE HONOURS PRACTICALLY CERTAIN.
IMPROVED FINANCIAL POSITION.
NEW ISSUE OF CONSULS EXPECTED.

All this tends to indicate that the period of mutual suspicion and
distrust is practically at an end. Nothing shows it more clearly than
the happy renewal of social relations between the Emperor and the leading
members of the Senate. As a guarantee of good feeling, several of our
legislators have consented, at His Majesty's earnest request, to assist
Him in the forthcoming Pageant of Empire to be held in the Circus
Maximus. Their collaboration is indeed indispensable, large consignments
of empty lions being reported to have arrived at Ostia. The hearty
sympathy between our Ruler and His people is still further attested by
the fact that several Senators who were but lately among the foremost
critics of Absolutism are now taking a personal and prominent share in
the scheme of street illuminations recently suggested to the Emperor by
His Chancellor. Members of the Stoic Democratic Federation have been
invited to meet H.I.M. at dinner at the Cafe Locusta.

* * * * *

The Cafe Locusta dinner has been a great success. It is not expected
that the Stoic Democratic Federation will express any further opinion
hostile to the Imperial policy.

M. Nymphidius has been commissioned to form a Ministry.

Not the least noteworthy among social _evenements_ is the departure of
Piso (whose tendency to form cabals has for some time been a sore subject
in Imperialistic circles) for his estates in Thule, N.B. He has left,
according to one account, by the Hook (_unco_).

* * * *