There placed he two fair cities full of men. In one were marriages and feasts; they led The brides with flaming torches from their bowers, Along the streets, with many a nuptial song. There the young dancers whirled, and flutes and lyres Gave forth their sounds, and women at the doors Stood and admired. Meanwhile a multitude Was in the forum, where a strife went on⁠— Two men contending for a fine, the price Of one who had been slain. Before the crowd One claimed that he had paid the fine, and one Denied that aught had been received, and both Called for the sentence which should end the strife. The people clamored for both sides, for both Had eager friends; the heralds held the crowd In check; the elders, upon polished stones, Sat in a sacred circle. Each one took, In turn, a herald’s sceptre in his hand, And, rising, gave his sentence. In the midst Two talents lay in gold, to be the meed Of him whose juster judgment should prevail.