Page:A Biographical Dictionary of the Celebrated Women of Every Age and Country (1804).djvu/290

276 the other, all the comedians, dancers, musicians, and buffoons, were obliged to come to this isle. Antony, however, began to suspect Cleopatra even of attempts against his life, and would neither eat nor drink without a taster. But, as this precaution offended her, she undertook to convince him that it was in vain to guard against her. Once, therefore, she proposed a new diversion, of dipping the flowers of their garlands in wine. Antony applauded the frolic, and began with her's, as she foresaw; but, on his offering to put the cup to his mouth, she prevented him, saying, "Know Cleopatra better, and learn by this, that all your precautions against her would signify nothing, if her heart were not interested in your preservation." It seemed that all the outside flowers were poisoned; and to prove that they were, a criminal was immediately brought in by her order, who drank the wine, and expired upon the spot.

The battle of Actium, partly by the flight of Cleopatra, who was followed by her lover, was determined in favour of Cæsar. Antony was so hurt and offended on this occasion, that he spent three days without seeing her; but afterwards was prevailed upon to be reconciled.

In the mean time, Cleopatra made use of all sorts of poison upon criminals, even the biting of serpents; and finding, after many experiments, that the sting of asps gave the most quick and easy death, it is thought she, from that time, made choice of it, if her ill fortune should drive her to extremity.

After they returned to Egypt, and found themselves abandoned by all their allies, they sent to make proposals to Cæsar. Cleopatra asked the kingdom of Egypt for her children; and Antony desired he might live as a private