44 
two panels, which seem to have a mythological meaning. The 
fourth is the most interesting, being a representation of Ceres 
presenting an ear of corn to Triptolemus, the inventor of the 
plough, which primitive agricultural: implement he holds in his 
left hand, and extends his right to receive the reward of Ceres. 
Ceres is entirely draped with a close-fitting garment, while the 
figure of Triptolemus is quite nude. In the triangular spaces 
between these panels are represented figures blowing the neat- 
herd’s horn. 
The other division of ‘this chamber, which also contains an 
interesting Mosaic, is nearly destroyed by the fall of the roof 
upon it, and only the western portion remains. ‘This panel 
represents Perseus and Andromeda seated. Perseus is holding 
up the head of the Gorgon which lies slain at his feet. In the 
angles of this compartment of the pavements are depicted the 
four seasons, but the figure of spring has been destroyed. The 
remaining three contain female heads adorned with flowers and 
emblems suited to each season. The outer border of this portion 
of the pavement has the “ Tau” cross worked in tessera, and an 
emblem, called the ‘“‘ Swastica,” at the western extremity. These 
are the pavements as yet discovered, but more may still be 
found. They constitute the principal apartments in the central 
part of the Villa, and show much taste and refinement. 
To the north-east of these is the hypocaust, with the chambers 
attached to it, and here seem to have been the baths of the Villa. 
They form the north-east portion, at the furthest extremity of 
which is the well, which has been cleared out, and much refuse, 
a human skeleton and animal bones, querns, pottery, &c., have 
been found within it ; the depth is 80 feet and the water very 
good, It is cut through the hard sand, without any stone facing, 
and seems to have had small buildings round it, which is unusual. 
Between the chief rooms and the hypocaust there appears to have 
been a cold bath. Abundance of roofing tiles with their pins, as 
well.as window glass and broken remnants of pottery have been 
found. 
