If not for concrete, which the Romans invented, some of ancient Rome would not have been built at all. They had some amazing architecture. The Colosseum alone, according to Google, is the largest standing amphitheater in the world today.

Interesting timing Jim. Our local news recently reported that Spring, 2021 is the year of our Brood X (or 17 year) cicada emergence. I remember the last time it was supposed to happen and we didn't notice any major eruption in our neighborhood. https://www.phillymag.com/news/2021/01/28/philadelphia-cicadas/ This is a link to a CBS map of the areas involved - https://www.cbsnews.com/news/what-is-brood-x-us-cicada-infestation-coming-in-2021/

Never heard of that phrase, but it reminds me of a Twilight Zone episode with Andy Devine, in which he played a character known for telling tall tales. After his abduction into a flying saucer, no one would believe that this had happened to him. I suppose you have a story to explain "tall tales" as well 😀

To me it meant they were cold hearted and without empathy...they'd say anything to get what they want. Not sure 'suspiciously amiable' would fit that.