S.P.Q.R.

by P.D. Lesko WHEN VISITING ROME, Italy, one notices the letters S.P.Q.R. on most every modern drain cover. The correct Latin translation is, of course, “Senatus Populus Que Romanus,” or “The Senate and People of Rome.” I once asked a group of Italian friends whether the “and” in that phrase implies a united group, or rather that the Senators put their interests first, and dragged along the People for the bumpy ride. The debate lasted well into the night and through several bottles of wine. In this issue’s “News” section, you will read (if you haven’t already) about the result […]