The gods favored them so highly that they were wont to leave at times their Olympian abodes and go to share their sacrifices and banquets. […] Near by stood an ancient altar, black with the smoke of sacrifice and almost buried among the reeds. […] Wishing to offer a sacrifice to Jupiter, he sent his servants to seek pure water for a libation. […] How often, while the priest made ready for sacrifice, the victim fell, struck down by disease without waiting for the blow! […] turn to behold the sacrifice I bring!