236
THE DECLINE AND FALL
CHAP.
XIX.
were extracted from the quarries of Phrygia .The licentiousness and corruption of Antioch recalled to the memory of Julian the severe andsimple manners of his beloved Lutetia, 7 wherethe amusements of the theatre were unknownor despised. He indignantly contrasted theeffeminate Syrians with the brave and honestsimplicity of the Gauls , and almost forgave theintemperance, which was the only stain of theCeltic character. 1 If Julian could now revisitthe capital of France , he might converse withmen of science and genius, capable of under-standing and of instructing a disciple of theGreeks; he might excuse the lively and grace-ful follies of a nation, whose martial spirit hasnever been enervated by the indulgence ofluxury; and he must applaud the perfection ofthat inestimable art, which softens and refinesand embellishes the intercourse of social life.