The Mask of Maxentius

Still a frozen white outside my window, except for the various paths cleared off for cars to drive and people to walk. Some meltage is predicted for the weekend, but I’m not betting on it.

Got a message from Kevin D. the other day, who has a nose for news that would make the basis of a screenplay of yore.

[To Dees]: Thought you might find this story interesting.

Emperor Maxentius insignia found in Rome

By MARTA FALCONI, Associated Press Writer Sun Dec 3, 2:24 PM ET

Archaeologists have unearthed what they say are the only existing imperial insignia belonging to Emperor Maxentius -- precious objects that were buried to preserve them and keep them from enemies when he was defeated by his rival Constantine… [it goes on for a number of graphs, including a mention of Maxentius’ scepter].

[To Kevin]: That is interesting, and like the beginning of a Fu Manchu movie. The scepter, you see, has magical powers, and it's thought that whoever possesses it can achieve world dominion. Soon after it was put on display in Rome, it was stolen under mysterious circumstances...

[To Dees]: Didn’t know about the magical powers. Since Fu is now politically incorrect, it might be a case for Indiana Jones.

[To Kevin]: Well, I was thinking like any pulp writer, attributing magic to anything old and royal enough. If the insignia had powers, fat lot of good it did Maxentius. He is known to history as a loser.

Instead of Fu, maybe agents of Kim Jong-Il. Who needs Fu when you have him?

[To Dees]: Yep, in The Mask of Fu Manchu he is looking for the treasure of Genghis Khan and, if memory serves, a particular sword that will lead to world domination.