Quintus Haterius Latronianus, a very well known builder was in
charge of this construction. On this night he himself, in a rage, was urging on the craftsmen. Gaius Salvius Liberalis, Haterius’ patron, was also present, who in turn was urging him on to finish the construction before daylight. For Salvius was anxious because the Emperor had persuaded Haterius to be in charge of the work. Therefore he repeatedly ordered this to the craftsmen, although they were all completely tired, not to stop from work. Glitus, the foreman of the craftsman, was trying to calm Haterius down. ‘Look, master!’ he said ‘The craftsman have already nearly finished the arch. The last letters of the inscription are now being written; the last shapes are being carved; the last blocks of marble are being raised to the top of the arch!’ A little before the first hour, the craftsmen, exhausted by work, they finished the arch. For a short time the city was silent. One craftsman, however, returning home through the forum suddenly heard the sad cries of two women. For the two were captives, having been overcome by great grief, were singing in prison: ‘My God! My God! Look at me! Why have you deserted me?’