Terpeia's Reward

The Romans knew no greater tale of treachery then that of the maiden Tarpeia. Her father was the keeper of the citadel of Rome and possessed the key to the city gate. This was a very important job espessially in time of war and it just so happened that the Romans were engaged in a war with the Sabines, who were laying siege to Rome. One day as Tarpeia went to draw water from the well which was in sight of the Sabine camp, she saw that the enemy warriors wore magnifacent bracelets on their left arms. Now Tarpeia was a very greedy girl and she desired these bracelets more then anything, so much that she sent word to the Sabine soldiers asking what she could do to obtain them. They replied that the only thing that she could do was open the gate and allow them entrance into the city. Tarpeia knew this would be treason but she valued jewelry more then loyalty to her country. She informed the enemy that she would open the gates if they gave her all that the wore on their left arms. So the night of her crime she slipped down to the gate and unlocked it. In came the dark masses of enemy troops. As she looked with selfish eyes upon their left arms she saw to her surprise there was no gold, no jewelry, but a huge brass shield. As she attempted to escape they began to hurl their shields upon her and soon she was crushed to death beneath them. And thus Tarpeia got her reward

Rome's Greatest Treasure

Here is a an example of what makes a true patriot, someone willing to give their life for their country.

At the center of Rome was a area known as the Forum, this place was the hub of the city. It was filled with markets, temples, baths and all sorts of other important buildings. Then in 362 B.C. the Forum was rocked by a earthquake which left a huge chasm right through the middle of the square. The citizens diligently worked to fill the hole but there seemed no end to it and no matter how many stones they threw into the gulf, it stayed as deep as ever before.

The leaders of Rome were very worried and sent for the soothsayers, who informed them that the chasm would not be filled up until the most valuable thing in Rome was thrown into it. The people all began to throw in the possessions they valued most but it was all in vain.

Suddenly the sound of a galloping horse was heard and into the Forum rode the brave Marcus Curtius, who was young noblemen of high birth. His body was adorned in armor and he rode a great warhorse. As a hush fell over those assembled Marcus drew his blade and with an exalted voice exclaimed,
"What is more valuable to Rome then courage? What has more worth then a citizen who is willing to give himself for for his country?"
And with that he took one last look at his beloved city and then spurred his horse into the abyss. Instantly the pit closed over horse and rider and the Forum was as it was before the earthquake.