a famous Arcadian chief, called the son of Mercury, on account of his eloquence, brought a colony of his people into Italy, about 60 years before the taking of Troy; when Faunus, who then reigned over the Aborigines, gave him a large extent of country, in which he settled with his friends. He is said to have taught the Latins the use of letters, and the art of husbandry. He kindly received Hercules when he returned from the conquest of Geryon, and he was the first who raised him altars. He gave Æneas assistance against the Rutuli, and distinguished himself by his hospitality. It is said that he first brought the Greek alphabet into Italy, and introduced there the worship of the Greek deities. He was honoured as a god after death, and his subjects raised him an altar on Mount Aventine.