Julio-Claudian Matron
1st half of first century C.E.
Lynn Kenealy, Bryan Schmitt
Dear diary,
Today was a day as any other day. I saw my husband off early this morning during a light rain. Antonius seems to carry a heavy burden on both his cart and his conscience. Nonetheless I went on with my work, preparing the children for their school lessons. Besides, trading trips to the city often take the entire day, so it would be useless to start worrying now. Sextus and Aemelia were more difficult than usual this morning, reluctant to begin with their studies. Nonetheless, when their new tutor arrived, they eventually got right to work. Aristophanes seems like a nice man and works well with the children.
The slaves worked well today, following the routine with few words exchanged between us. Maria is such a hard worker, I almost pity the toll that labor will have on her body. I do not, however, sympathize for Medus. I can still feel his hatred towards me ever since I had him whipped yesterday after I caught him playing dice instead of sweeping the triclinium. He won't dare to lay a finger on me or the children though, he knows better.
I have finally completed the tunic for Antonius that I had started months ago. Olivia came over from next door and helped me put on the final touches. She kept on complaining about Titus and how he is always away to the "market". Personally I think he has been shopping elsewhere. I feel dreadfully sorry for Olivia, as I do not believe that such a wonderful woman should have to experience such deceit. Keep food on the table, raise the kids well, weave when needed, and never hesitate to use the whip to keep the slaves in line, that's what I say, that's the secret to a happy marriage. With the husband away for a majority of the day, it is easier to enjoy your own personal time, doing your own personal things. Still companionship seems to be lacking in this household too these days.
Maria returned from the market just in time to prepare dinner. She kept spouting on about tomorrow's festival and how the streets were decorated so nicely. I guess living near Rome for my entire life, I am no longer affected by the decorations. The foolish girl spoke at length, so long in fact that she burned the bread for tonight's dinner. I sent her away unpunished, she meant no harm.
Sextus and Aemilia are sound asleep now and the light of the candle grows dim. Antonius will return soon. I do hope that he likes the tunic that I have worked on so diligently, maybe it will brighten his spirits after his hard journey. I hear the clacking of the horses hooves on the streets below. That must be him now. I must go downstairs to greet him.
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