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Show OYSTERS. The Romans, who loved good things, were fond of oysters. Sergius Orata, according to Pliny, was the first to conceive and carry into execution the formation of oyster beds. He made extensive reservoirs at Baiae, in which he deposited countless thousands of those shell-fish. A palace was reared in the vicinity, where the naturalist's chosen friends were wont to regale themselves once a week with these delicious fish. Many slaves were employed at Rome in early days, transporting the oyster from its ocean bed to the imperial city. |