Dictionary of Greek and Roman Biography and Mythology/C. Orchius

by William Smith

C. O’RCHIUS, tribune of the plebs in the third year after the consulship of Cato, b. c. 181, was the author of a sumtuaria lex, limiting the number of guests to be present at entertainments. When attempts were afterwards made to repeal this law, Cato offered the strongest opposition, and delivered a speech in defence of the law, which is referred to by the grammarians. (Macrob. Saturn. ii. 13 ; Festus, s. vv. Obsonitavere, Percunctatum; Schol. Bob. in Cic. pro Sest. p. 310, ed. Orelli ; Meyer, Orat. Rom. Fragmenta. p. 91, &c., 2nd ed. C.