in Grecian antiquity, a solemnity at Sparta in honour of Diana Orthia, wherein the children of the most distinguished families were wont to slash and tear each other's bodies with rods before the altar of the goddess; the parents of the children being always present, used to animate and excite them not to give the least sign of pain or concern; and indeed so great was the bravery and resolution of the boys, that seldom or never any cry or groan was heard to proceed from them, tho' they frequently whipped one another to death. The design of this custom was to fortify the children betimes, and harden them against wounds, bruises, &c.