Dodona
The most ancient oracle in Greece, situated in Epirus, founded by the Pelasgians, and dedicated to Zeus (Jupiter). The responses of the oracle were given from lofty oaks or beech trees. The will of the god was declared by the wind rustling through the trees, and in order to render the sounds more distinct, brazen vessels were suspended on the branches of the trees, which being set in motion by the wind came in contact with one another. These sounds were interpreted in early times by men, but afterwards by aged women. 104 IOOO CLASSICAL CHARACTERS Dolabella, P. Corn. A Roman who married the daughter of Cicero. During the civil wars he warmly espoused the cause of Julius Caesar, whom he accompanied at the famous battles of Pharsalia and Munda.
Domitianus, Titus Flavius. Son of Vespasian and Flavia Domitilla, made himself emperor of Rome on the death of his brother Titus, whom, according to some accounts, he destroyed by poison. The beginning of his reign promised hopefully, but Domitian became cruel, and gave way to vicious indulgences. In the latter part of his reign he became suspicious and remorseful. He was assassinated A. D. 96, in his forty-fifth year.