TARQUIN AND THE EAGLE

After Tullus died, Romans elected Ancus Martius, grandson of Numa Pompilius. He was wise and good, fighting only when necessary. So many wrongdoers came to Rome that Ancus built a prison with deep dungeons—still standing over 600 years later. Among the strangers attracted to Rome was a wealthy Greek named Tarquin (from the town Tarquinii). As he drove to Rome with his wife Tanaquil, an eagle swooped down, snatched his cap, circled, and replaced it on his head. Tanaquil, who knew about signs, said it meant he would be king. The rich couple made friends among patricians. Ancus often consulted Tarquin and, after ruling twenty-four years, left his two young sons in Tarquin's care.