79. The use of braccae, breeches, or trousers, was still
considered in Italy as a Gallic and barbarian fashion. The
Romans, however, had made great advances towards it. To
encircle the legs and thighs with fasciae, or bands, was
understood, in the time of Pompey and Horace, to be a proof
of ill health or effeminacy. In the age of Trajan the custom
was confined to the rich and luxurious. It gradually was
adopted by the meanest of the people. See a very curious
note of Casaubon, ad. Sueton. in August. c. 82.