the banqueting hall and look shyly around at the crowd. An attractive woman carrying a jug of wine approaches me and introduces herself.

"You are Valeria Casta? Ah, it is very nice to meet you. I am a humble visitor to your city from the Far East. We heard about the Saturnalia festivities and were curious to see how you westerners celebrated. I must say that everything has been quite entertaining, until I left my rooms this evening to make my way to this potluck dinner. I was mugged by a couple of ruffians who tried to intimidate me with what looked like a sharpened quill! But they had picked the wrong woman, as I never travel abroad without my small dagger. I hope there are no penalties in your city for a woman who defends herself from such miscreants.

I don't suppose you'd be so kind as to offer me a cup of your wine? After such an unpleasant experience, my nerves could use a bit of calming."