Page:The geography of Strabo (1854) Volume 1.djvu/285

 B. iv. c. i. 6. GAUL. THE NARBONNAISE. 271 GreeJi^-literature, that they even draw contracts on the Gfrecian model. While at the present day it so entices the noblest of the Romans, that those desirous of studying resort thither in preference to Athens. These the Galatae observ- ing, and being at leisure on account of the peace, readily devote themselves to similar pursuits, and that not merely individuals, but the public generally ; professors of the arts and sciences, and likewise of medicine, being employed not only by private persons, but by towns for common instruc- tion. Of the wiaiiom of the Massilians and the simplicity of their life, the following will not be thought an insignificant proof. The largest_dowry amongst them consists of one hun- dred goldjpieces, with five for dress, and five more for golden ornaments. More than this is not lawful. Cassar and his successors treated with moderation the offences of which they were guilty during the war, in consideration of their former friendship ; and have preserved to the state the right of governing according to its ancient laws. So that neither Marseilles nor the cities dependent on it are under submis- sion to the governors sent [into the Narbonnaise]. So much for Marseilles. 6. The mountains of the Salyes incline gently from west to north in proportion as they retire from the sea. The coast runs west, and extending a short distance, about 100 stadia, from Marseilles, it begins to assume the character of a gulf at a considerable promontory near to certain stone quarries, and extending to the Aphrodisium. the headland which terminates the Pyrenees, 1 forms the Galatic Gulf, 2 which is also called the Gulf of Marseilles : it is double, for in its circuit Mount Setium 3 stands out together with the island of Blascon, 4 which is situ- ated close to it, and separates the two gulfs. The larger of these is properly designated the Galatic Gulf, into which the Rhone discharges itself ; the smaller is on the coast of Narbonne, and extends as far as the Pyrenees. Narbonne is situated above the 1 The Cape de Creus, a promontory on which was the temple of the Pyrenaean Venus. 2 The Gulf of I.vnns. 3 The Cape de Cette. 4 Gosselin says, " The Island of Blascon is a rock opposite Agde, on which remains a fortified castle, which preserves the name of Brescon. This rock has been connected with the mainland, to form the port of Agde."