flfeacmillan'e

NE^RA
A

TALE

OF

ANCIENT

ROME

BY

w.

JOHN

PRAHAM

Hondon
MACMILLAN

AND
AND

No. 33

NEW

YORK

1887

\All rights
reserved.}

CO.

IE

S
1396

610113

7.
-

S-

PART

NE^ERA

I.

CHAPTER

ANNO

f~*

the

there

and

Capreae,
which

the

orders

the

took

the

for

partiality displayed,
by

favoured

nature,

Opposite,
sharp

in
has

yet

times,

has

Why

the

seat

of

rumour

these

giving
so

pages

empire,
it
full

freely
to

his

of

his

lofty

be

was

for

indulgence

ascribed
determined.

to

more

small,

lofty,

and

left Rome
this

political

him,
He

is

not

hastened

to

from

aloof

stands

semicircles,
cliffs.

or

within

two

comparable,

himself,
away

certainty,

vicious

tip

loveliest

secluded

reasons,

those

the

island,

small
with

never,

to

the

north,

two

sheer

and

mountain

has

not

these

of

apex

life, in

being

of

therefore,

Capreae,

the

the

found

the

on

although

south,

Tiberius

Emperor

Whether
of

its

from

remainder

the

at

That

reputation

beauty.

waters,

both

hand.

the

on

by

divides

which

mainland,

the

the

had

built

miles, approaches

three

either

That

blue

surveying

the

on

this

than

was

merited

be

to

of

Capreae.

of
of

considerable

the

amid

for

away

world.

the

of

distance

places

situation,

of

point

promontory

earliest

the

at

curving

bays

in

few

are

mountain-island

iron-bound

of

there

well

It

to

imperial

of

aqueducts

Augustus.

Emperor

It

proofs

and

of

island

abode.

substantial

ruler
never

the

at

permanent

villas, baths,

of

shape

of

his

up

retinue,

arrived

he

the

Caesar,

small

year

possessed

already

in

favour,

with

Rome,

following

the

In

spot

left

world,

return.

Tiberius

Twenty-six,

DOMINI

been

for
habits
the

continue

from
plained.
ex-

the

pose
purwhich

scope
to

of

his

NE"RA

home

new

those

hermitagemight

possible. Of

three

some
deity,

at

the time of

the date of
his

our

about

in that outline

feet

akin

thing,however,
be said to

Emperor

may
the world and
Caesar
his

named

after

and

occupied

the year
himself away

amid

thirty,
from

rumours

cruelties
The

sea.

was

inflamed

was

is

easy and

an

natural

outcome

that, althoughlost,
certain,
as

have

been,

to

the

after

the

eyes of the world,

hidden from him.
and

"

Day

imagination
into something

and

in turn, were
its affairs,
never
remained
Caesar
sleepless,
prompt

mysteriousrocks.

the

invisible Caesar

the

turn

an

One

variety

of

hidden

had

more

ogre or monster
of the insular mystery.
to

utmost

strictly
preserved,and
treat.
jealouslywarned from his rocky re-

were

To

rampant

completed

of mountain

Curiositybecame
more

limits of

narrow

the

autumn

imperialhermit

seclusion of the
unauthorised

cliffs. New

three years, and, already,

dark
of strange enormities
and dread

abroad
flitting

shrouded

the

In

story,Tiberius

people for

were

been

deified

of the remainder
story,whilst the building

our

actively
proceeding.

was

that the

afford to Caesar

had

four

or

wave-washed

so

i.

assailed the

each
projectedvillas,

the twelve

his

of workmen

hand,

every

which

favour

cone-like hills and

arose*on
villa-palaces
the island

of

Armies

begun.

of the

summits

marks

same

predecessorhad

PART

day, couriers

vigorousamid
and

came

went

of the known
world.
The vast
tidingsfrom every corner
had Capreae for its heart,which
empire,like a sprawlinggiant,
of itsveins
to every extremity
impelledthe life-blood ceaselessly
with

and

arteries.

morning, one of the long,swift boats,used

left the landing-place
in the
in the imperialdespatch service,
ward
littleMarina, on the north side of Capreae, and shot away to-the barren promontory of Minerva
opposite.
On

The

an

October

vessel

of communication

sharp lines

to

was

one

number

used

for the

mainland,and
high speed. Plenty of

with

attain

of

the

was

busy service

built

power
whose
oars
slaves,

was

fine,
lent by

on

swept the
brawny arms of a dozen stout
craft along, with the gently ripplingsea
foaming under its
The morning was
and a delicious autumn
bright,
sharp bows.
serenitysoftened mountain and sea with a mellow haze ; so

the

CHAP.

TALE

i.

that in default of
away
will

the

under
to

OF

breeze

ANCIENT

ROME

fill the

to

bulwarks, the

rowers

largesail
bent

stowed

neatly

their backs

with

with

their work.

There

was

air.
soldierly

one

He

passenger on
seemed
not

board
more

"

than

man

young
two

or

three-and-

twenty years of age, with large,handsome, boldly-cut

features,
of the true

of his

Roman

cast, and

keen, dark eyes.

The

expression
was, perhaps,

proud in repose,
dark complexion,stillswarthier with
heightenedby a naturally
and wind.
He laywrapped in a largemilitary
sun
side
cloak,bethe steersman, whose
chatter he acknowledged, now
and
brief word, or smile which
a
again,by a nod, or occasionally
softened all severity
of visagewith a gleam as brightas the
face,something stern

and

sunny sky above.

After leavingthe chill shadow
cliffsof the
was

of the

terrific,
perpendicular

the straits to the mainland

passage across
As the vessel glided finally
its
to
rapidly made.

destination

island,the

alongsidea

small

of stone, on
arose, flung back

landingparapet

shore of the promontory, the young

man
ashore.
He showed
cloak,and sprang lightly
of

at

least six

feet,and

athletic

manly

the
his

stature

of the best
spare, sinewy frame
chest and thin in the flank. No

build,deep in the
other garb,than that which clothed him, could more
admirably
these
fine
proportions.
display
There
the
was
chased, polished cuirass,moulded
richlycloselyto the lines of the body from throat to abdomen, and
From
this
imitatingthem as accuratelyas a plastercast.
hung the short drapery of a kilt,or philibeg,
nearly to the
knee, leavingthe leg,downward, bare to the high boots,which
were

the

laced up to the swell of the calf. The muscular

likewise uncovered, save
officer were
for
young
beneath

the

shoulder.

of

short

large cloak, before noticed,

which hung gracefully
from his left shoulder,greatlyenhanced
the effect of this military
panoply,particularly
suitingthe tall
of the wearer.
It was
fastened
stature
at the neck
by a
gold buckle, and could be shifted to either shoulder, or
the back, or wrapped around
the body altogether. On
to
a
service,
polished,crested helmet would have completed
military
the costume
; but, at present, after the usual Roman
fashion,the young man's head bore no covering but its own
way

The

arms

NEMRA

PART

hair.
For arms, he
dark, close-curling
Roman
sword, and a poniard.

the

wore

short,straight,

Just as it may be remarked at the present day,of

exclusive portionof our
the
so
own
service,
military
richness
with

the

of

those

officer's

young

of the

Pretorian

Guard, the household

permanent camp at Rome, and
for

enteringon their
cityand empire.

to

unusual

be

of the

one

gathered into
troops, lately
into
brought fairly

future famous

he left the boat

As

him

certain

contrasted

appointments,as

denoted
legionaries,

its crew

position

in the affairs of the

career

saluted

I.

him.

Returning the
slaves some
piecesof money,
courtesy, he flungthe perspiring
and walked rapidlyup the shore towards a group of buildings,
which had newly sprung
comprisingthe postingestablishment,
into existence,
as
a necessary
adjunctto the Emperor's abode.
from the despatch-boat
A signalhad been waved
before reaching
he arrived

shore, and when

the
he found

the ostlers

awaitinghim

the door

at

with

of the stables

horse

ready caparisoned

for the road.

'

Back

'

Back

around
'

Two

to
to

him.

good journey!' chorused

or

three

Pretorian

the

him.
Rome, Centurion ?' said one, saluting
Rome,' repliedhe, girding his cloak close

coins

vaulted

rattled
on

to

the stablemen.
on

the

the

gravelfor answer, and

horse's back, and
galloped

away.

Riding as rapidlyas the path would permit,and without

drawing rein,it was not long before the lovelyplainof Surhis view, embosomed
in the circling
broke
rentum
vine
on
and olive-clad mountains,edged by the blue waters
of the sea,
clothed

with luxuriant

of the noble
the

and

and
fruit-groves,

wealthy,who

had

soft,salubrious air of this

most

studded

with the villas

retired hither

to

revel in

lovelyspot

of

lovely

land.
But

our

horseman

paid

little attention

to

the

exquisite
He
passed

otherwise
absorbed.
thoughts were
of Surrentum
the girdling
hills,and closed with the town
in the midst, he changed horses
itself. At the postingstation,
and went
giving time for an idle crowd to gather
on, scarcely
did not, however, go very many
hundred
round.
He
yards
scene.

His

CHAP.

his second

on

TALE

i.

ANCIENT

OF

garden-plotsand
lead

to

lined

stage, before he suddenly drew rein

outskirts of the town, where

debouched

ROME

fields.
his own,
the town

upon
back to

the last houses

It

at

was

almost

by

at

the very
straggledout amid

point where
rightangles.
a

roundabout

on

by-road

It seemed
and

course,

was

intermittent way, by
side,in a straggling,
in the manner
lage
of a country vilgardens and cottage-houses,
The dwelling
to where he stood,at the end
street.
nearest
of the lane,was
about
hundred
a
a
yards distant. It was
small,humble
house, like the majorityof its neighbours,and
either

on

the outpost habitation

detached
and flanked

was
was

In

grove.

workshop,
house

the
to

few

where

in

house,

ruinous

him

side

by

It

small olive-

this

dismounted

some

looked

trees.

inside the

fitted with

was

within

lane,and, when
and

led

wall to the inside of the

amid

up to the house, and

with a fixed gaze.
interior

down

turned
the

of

he tethered

The

the town

on

in that direction.

of the

rear

Centurion

yards
through a gap
a

town

an
premises was
outbuilding;a
judge by its black, smoking chimney. The
open-frontedas a shop.

itself was

The

of the

his

horse

enclosure,
he walked

Thence

shop, pausing

open

which

shelves,on

played
dis-

was

stock of pottery of a kind for which Surrentum

was
noted.
It was
not
these, however, that the rapt eyes of
upon
the soldier rested,
but upon the tall,
lithe figureof a girl,
who
a

and
busilyengaged in takingthe articles down
dusting
them.
Her back being toward him, he entered the shop with
a stealthy
step and stood behind her without her knowledge.
Pausing,for a moment, to gaze upon the figureand the glossy
coils of the luxuriant brown
hair of the unconscious
he
girl,
was

bent

down
She

whisperedin her ear the name

the bowl, which
and
violently,

and

started

fell from

her

fingersand

shivered with

'

Neaera

she

!'

ing,
wip-

was

crash

the

on

floor.

Oh, sir,is it you?' she murmured.

Her cheeks flushed,
and her eyes fell.
Yes, Neaera,it is I but only for a few niggard moments.
'

'

"

am

on

my
Necera

you,
'

way
"

you

back

to

look

Quite well,'was

Rome.

'Tis six weeks

since I

pale! have you fared well ?'

the brief,
constrained reply.

saw

NE"RA

'

And

'Both
see

father and

your

well

are

them.'

She

but he laid his hand

'

In

gave a
her aside into a

neither look

'You
to

six weeks
looked

see

was

at

nor

me

him

with

inaudible

almost
His

have

She

raised

of

flushed with
'

As

he led

had

gaze
welcome

head

her

and

her beautiful

fell
or

pleased
you disthe weary

once

more.

not, Neaera ?

in
you,'she replied,

'

an

"Nay,"

the truth

yet deeper colour,and

he returned ; ' but if your

you will,'
hesitation or fear; for
say it without
at the expense
heart,even
increased,and her fingers
agitation

from

littlecourtesy.' Her

her

I pray

answer,

up.

be

have

I would

are

"

?'

tone.

himself
would

answer

an

swarthy cheeks

he drew

me

appealingexpressionin

an

from

Spare me

be rid of

rather

gray eyes, but, in a brief moment,

'
Still you do not
I am
say whether
he persisted.
'

to

her.

speak,Neaera

you
into
twelve?'
prolonged

at

wish

detained

the street,and
less overlooked.

Would

me

and

glance into

which

recess

if you will be pleased to

the interior of the house,

arm

do you

"

hasty,timid

She

to

as

Neaera

moment,

within

if to go
gentlyon her

moved

i.

mother?'

they are

"

PART

your

Those
nervously with the dusting cloth she held.
were
slenderly
ringers, though stained and roughened with toil,
in
He
them
his
formed.
took
and
and, in
delicately
own,
spiteof her attempt to withdraw them, kept them in his grasp.
'What
has happened, Neaera?' said he, looking into her
'Has anything that I have done angered you,
downcast
face.
worked

or

to

but

rather,that I have

duty
we

in

left undone, since I have

island

yonder

for six weeks

reflect that had

must

the

been

It is

Prefect

no

chained

long indeed,

business

with

To
Caesar
meetings would be far seldomer.
the happy chance
and Prefect I owe
of seeing you, and on
them for a while still depend future opportunities.But what
what
has
is troublingyou, Neaera ?
You
are
pale and worn
happened ?
it was
Nothing but reflection ah, sir,have pityon me

Caesar

then

our

"

'

'

"

"

better

not

to

have

'Ah, is it

returned

so?

"

that

at

is

all.'

easilymended!'

he

replied,in

bitter astonishment.
'Don't

blame

"

don't

kill

me

with

scornful

tones!'

she

CHAP.

TALE

I.

OF

ROME

ANCIENT

though the courage of despair;

I have been thinkingthrough these bitter weeks
oh, so bitter ! It is right it is justthat you see me no more.
is there in common
between
?
I am
What
us
a poor
potter's
girl am rude in speech and manner
; you are nobly born and
rich
with extreme
and she
Her voice trembled
agitation,
stopped abruptlyas if she could trust it no longer. A smile
said,with
think,as

more

even

courage,

'

"

"

"

'

of infinite tenderness
'

you

needed

Had

have

givenit me,' he

drawingher
'

No

but

to
thing more
said,catchingher

clench

one

hands

love,

my

again and

him.

towards

it were

"

his fine features.

pityillumined

and

better

love

to

of your

one

she
station,'

own

panted,tryingto repulsehim.
'

'

It is too

late

tell me

to

that your way of life

has also said it,and he is wise.'
'

'

Ay,

he has said

to

speech

and

of the

proud

the

me

faster

conviction.

againstmy

bearingare
dames

not

like the

'

'

What

are

we

that

your

who

in Rome

sex
me

as

the

"

dust

their feet.'

And

in the

Your

you.

artificial,
superfinegraces
their lives in palaces?

loll away
Gods
forbid ! Why, there are those of
your
in
who
would
even
deem
ay,
Surrentum,

beneath

to

weak, foolish fancy seizes you,

ought to
My father

'
you ?
be followed.'
must

is vain

part because

be mine.

cannot

child !'

me,

it,but

I say it is truth and

Foolish ! You
only bind

jointwisdom

at

blame.

to

am

seen

'

Come, look

foolish and

No, I have been

have

that.

there

same

True

others,also,whom
you
fashion,'
repliedthe girl.
and many
of them of familyand
are

would

look

wealth

far

beyond

and

fore,
there-

upon

mine.'
'

Yet

what

between
'

he

Surrentum

said,with

There
'

you have of both is far above

the same.'
us, all remains

remains
Whatever

cannot
a

'

smile,

to
striving

is,it is
calm

appear
and
foolish,

oh,

Centurion,if you

can

and

better you in a lawyer'swit,Nesera,'

but you spend it in so
poor a cause.

something far beyond

it

me,

'

how

not

it is

for
over

I have

forgiveme

rank

us

in

now.

and

wealth.'

common,'
I

have

suffered for it !
"

go from

me

she
been

said,
weak

Forgive me,
and forgetme

NEMRA

10

folly.'As she
was
a depth of anguishin
pityand joy. At the same
"all

he

looked

our

his

folded

in

arms

him

full in the

face

her eyes which filled him

time she held out her
his breast.

across

of

tone

PAIIT

'

reproof;

'

there

alike with

hand, but

Centurion

Neaera, have you

i.

!' he

peated,
re-

forgottenmy

name?'
His

bearingand

shown
a
speech throughout had never
sign of hesitation which might have encouraged her in hei
determination.
He
stood before her vast, immovable, and
calmly resolute. Her glance drooped, and her outstretched
hand
and arm
she buried
graduallyfell to her side. Then
her face in her hands.

bent closer tillhis breath

He

he

said, you have been

kinder

'

Enough of this madness

I love
Misdoubting girl,
on

this earth.

and

you

would

that you
so?
not
She

have

me

from

some

your

measure

called

follyof

for what
away

though

not

gathered it

have

you

thrust

To

and

this

"

her hair.

played on

you

Lucius

me

possess

the

now.

maxims
above

aie, and

to wreck

Nesera,'

ere

and

saws

you

were

'

!
all

wholly ;

me

power.

For

lips,
your

face,

of love

Is it

eyes, your sweet

in return.
for me

Speak, Neaera !'

trembled

impulse,he

threw

and, yieldingto
violently,
his

around

arms

kiss upon her cheek.

She freed herself with

irresistible

pressed a

fervent

and stood off,

desperateexertion,
extreme
emotion, with her cheeks
a

shaking in

panting and

her and

an

aflame.
'

he

ejaculated,
advancingto her again.
No, no ! Leave me
go and forgetme, if you would be
kind ! oh, you
merciful and
cruel ! Alas, can
I ever
are
look in my father's face again !'
The
sound
of a footstepin the passage
leading to the
'

Nesera !

'

"

"

interior broke

upon

their

She

ears.

cast

one

loftyreproach,mingled with sorrow, upon

her breast.
and then drooped her head upon
A short,thick-set man
presentedhimself
hands, his
with the

coarse

grime of

through these
the unmistakable

garments, and
the furnace

outward

tokens

and

even

the

of the

his

swift look

the

young

in the

man,

shop.

face, were

His

stained

smearings of clay;
common

of

but

artisan shone

in the brilliancy
of
intellect,
signsof superior

CHAP.

TALE

I.

ANCIENT

OF

ROME

II

thick brows, and in a massive forehis eyes, deep set under

head,
which was
His hand,
very broad and full at the base.
his gaze rested
which he raised with a gesture of surprise,
as
the young
couple,was of the shape usuallysupposed to be
artist and mechanic, being long,squareto the gifted
peculiar
on

and power of
flexibility
tipped,and sinewy,with an immense
thumb.
Reading the tell-talefaces of the pairwith a rapid
assumed
a
instantly
glance,his countenance
grave sternness,
unlike
the preoccupiedexpression which
previouslyrested
it.

upon

'What

with
been

deemed
and

haughtinesswhich

of

amount

an

Martialis !' he

Centurion!

"

with the relative stations of himself

incommensurate

his visitor.

Although his tone was

of any kind, there
seemed

said,coldly,and even
have
might,ordinarily,

strike the

to

quietand
was

pale face in her hands.

Yes, Masthlion,even I !
his hand.
forward and offering

tion
anger or emoqualityin it which

unusual

an

girlnot

free from

the

less

acutely,for

she

hid

her

'

'

Masthlion
for

the

met

moment

then, as

returned

the

Pretorian,
stepping

officer
open, frank gaze of the young
if not noticing
the profferedgreeting,

for a few
dropped his eyes to the floor and remained
seconds in deep thought. Then
his head he said
raising
come,
Centurion,I should be grievedto say that you are unwelhe

"

'

that the honour

yet, I say plainly,
free
altogether
I

bound

am

high

that

with you.
I am
a
livingfor my familyby the

modest

earns

feeling.Not

I will be

to say.

fellow,who
labour

from

frank

of my hands.
You
of the
are
office in Caesar's service. You

station of

me

and

mine.

of your visit is not

from personal dislike,

As

you

do

knightlyorder,and
are
wholly above
not

honour

poor
hard
hold
the

my humble
in the way of

dwellingfor the sake of buying my handiwork

a
trade,I have, therefore,
rightto reflect and inquirewhat
objectyour presence has.'
You
have a perfectright,
Masthlion,'
repliedthe other,
and, althoughyou know, as I think,rightwell already,
I commend
'

'

your method
littleinclination to
to creep

about

my

of

the matter
thus plainly.
I have as
putting
allow any misunderstanding
and ambiguity
actions

as

you

have, and

will,therefore,

NE"RA

12

I'AltT

and without hesitation,

an
answer
give you freely,
your question I love your daughter Nesera !'

as

!.

clear

as

"

potter nodded

The

other

in

which

manner

showed

that the

than

expected. His glance roved

to the other,whilst his daughter'shead
drooped so
her face was
hidden.
completely

reply was
one

that
'

no

It is

which

matter

demands

from
low

talk,and, as there is

further

why it should take place in the sightof neighbours

and passers-by,
perhapsyou will enter my poor house,Centurion.'
the reply.
Willingly I desire nothing better,'
was
Masthlion, heaving a deep sigh,took his daughter by the
hand
and
led the way
Martialis
along the inner passage.

no

reason

'

"

followed

into

them

table, some

small

stools,and

furnished

room,

couch

simply with

whilst,for ornament, some

brackets and shelves bore a few exquisitely-finished
specimens
of glasswork,togetherwith some
small
figuressculpturedin
stone, the fruits of the potter'sself-taught
genius. From the
door
Masthlion
called aloud
for his wife, and
she hastily
with patienteyes.
Her
appeared. She was a spare woman,
face had been comely, but was
ship
and faded with the hardworn
and anxietyof a long struggleagainsthunger and want
in their earlywedded
life.
A significant
glancepassed between her and her husband
for her
the demand
had occasioned
she perceived what
as
presence.
She made

As

for

silent obeisance

her husband

to

waited

and
visitor,

the

to

for

speak.
stillbowed

Nesera, she stood with her head

her

on

breast.
Her

lover's

cloak, seemed
confidence

tones

Wife, the Centurion

daughter.'

the floor.

'

must

keeping

be
ere

Here

What

only child,the
we

began

eyes

with

rested

in grave

measured

"

'

our

Masthlion,who

on

His

little room.

fill the

to

calm

form, draped in its ample flowing

erect
tall,

one

he

paused

should

we

lightof

assured,as far
we

this,Centurion?'

let

one

told

Martialis hath

go

as

few

tell him
our

house.

is

our

loves

moments,

lookingon

this,that

she

had

But

of good
possible,
from

that he

me

roof.

and

You

we

is

our

twenty,

honourable
understand

CHAP.

TALE

i.

OF

ANCIENT

Perfectly
; it is only natural

'

and

think best for your assurance.'

'
then ! is it from mere
First,
take

ROME

13

fancy has

burnt

you

fancy that

try to

away, and then to cast

itself out, after the fashion

that

you would
her off when

daughter

my

what

Do

proper.

of many

of your

order?'
'

No,' said the young

I told you

'

eyes ;

wife,or

my

'

And

up with
I tell you
she

now

"

sparkling
must

be

other.'

none

are

her

loved

drawing himself

man,

sure

you

would

you

in the

alwaysrest

same

mind

now?'

as

'

Ah,

have

far

as

doubt

no

of

Masthlion

human

as

returned
it,'

shook

can
perception

thought and

his head

Martialis

proudly.

sighed;

and

his

and

wife,from

long habit of waitingon his looks,unconsciouslydid

of her own.
though without offering
any remark
'

It is

the way

ever

disagreewith
looks,and you

that

fair

the same,

'
with the young
eager and heedless !
Centurion,as an older man, and one who

said the potter.

has not lived in the
'

go, I

"

You

you.
know

blind eyes, I

with

world

attracted

are

must

by

tell you
the child's

upon

that familiarity
will
forget,
their influence over
The
senses.
gods made
your
fair to pleasethe hearts of men
; but, did they bestow
them
other qualities,
no
they would become
nothing

more

than

weaken
women

toys

mere

first;but

attract

to

not,

be

it is the

or

bandied

about

and
disposition,

mind, which are necessary

and love.
Where, within

of the

of

esteem

this poor

child

learnt those

manners

the

to weave

these
and

the wife of

of your station ?
fine friends and family?
She

your

one

every word.
off. You
would

The

Could
would

first blush

graces

you

shame
of your

Looks

ments
accomplishbond
lasting

humble

in a companion ?
habit,you require,before all,
she have gathered the refinements
which would
to

will.

at

walls,has

which,from
Where

could

be

necessary
present her to
you

at every

fancy would
would
wear
grow angry and disgusted. You
be nothing but
repent of your bargain,and the rest would
This
bitterness,
reproaches,and unhappiness if not worse.
is a picturemore
than yours, Centurion.
to be depended on
if you think over
and
Go, therefore,
it,as you ought to do,
without allowingyour feelingsto bias your
reflections,
you
turn

"

at

"

NE"RA

14

will

that I

see

there will be

right,and

am

PART

will

you

come

no

i.

Thus

more.

rash,ill-advised affair the less in the world.'

this,'
Masthlion, your daughter has already told me

'

answered
'

one

Centurion,with

the

smile.

Did

she so?' cried the potter,castinga look of prideand

satisfactionat the girl. ' Then
she did wiselyand obediently
and

"

if I guess aright. Alas ! your proudest

better.
done
Come
and kiss me, my
no

bravely too,

dames

could

have

brave

girl!'
Neaera glidedto him, and hid

her face in his shoulder.

Martialis folded

watched

had

his

unconsciouslydealt

needed

all.

at

one

perception,or

acute

and

arms

deathblow

to

The

his

cause,

own

potter
if it

Their

The
at that moment.
eyes met
of the artisan interpreted
too well
instinct,

calm, resolute lightof the young

the

them.

man's

glance,so

warm

pictureof the fair girlbefore him, and he groaned

stroked his daughter's
glossylocks.
inwardlyas he restlessly
of his
He
what to say, so heavilydid the sense
knew
not
helplessness
press upon him.
It is a year since I stopped one
day at the old fountainI had
said Martialis,
basin yonder,'
stretchingout his arm.
with

the

'

'

ridden
It

far and

thus

was

image

and
thirsty,

was

I met

her

Nesera

way, but her

and discovered
I sought her again,

first.

my mind.
looks did not belie her

haunted

that her

her pitcher.
filling

was

went

on

my

I have

heart.

chosen

her

mind, even as you would have me choose ; not from

a light
fancyof the eyes alone,but because I know she is pure,
noble,and good in spirit.As for the rest, you may magnify,
from
ignorance,my positionand importance. Neaera is
changes which you
naturally
predisposedtoward those trifling

to

fillmy

deem

necessary,

and

she would

glideinto

them

instinctively

unconsciously. Masthlion, these arguments will be

I ask you to give me
vain,so use them not.
your daughter
Nesera,in betrothal.'
The
but, smoothing the
potter did not replystraightway,
with his hand, he stood with
head ceaselessly
tremblinggirl's
in painfulthought,and his eyes bent on
his brow contracted
and

the

ground.
'

'

you

In

he said,
after
Centurion,'
good faith,

rend

my

heart between

doubt

and

an

uneasy
and
anxiety,

silence,
a

desire

CHAP.

to

well

as
generously

act

child to

You

better of you.

correspond to
stranger,and

fetch
'

man.

young

You

I, for my

Can

are

no

could, to aid you,'said

if I

Rome,

your looks
than a
more

and
fair-spoken,

your speech. But yet you

knows
Surrentum
you not.'

would

'I

you
honest and

are

15

I deliver up my
of this district I could judge

prudently.

as

Were

stranger?

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

TALE

i.

the

be satisfied with my appearance

with
part, will await your further inquiries

pleasedto

are

confidence.'
'

have

suspicionof

no

prudence requiresproof.
for

and

odds

at

are

we

now

of the future ; I
hawks, and sparrows

confident
with

present, however, would

requirestime
'

she to have
'

Tibia
Ay, truly,

for

to no

is not

goods

; thou

his

to

hast

words
the

"

at

matter

husband
chattels,
his wife

in

word

'

delightedspouse.

The
be

It would

is

"

quietly.

answered
season,'
gods forgive

fine way of
first proving if the claybe fit. What

pot without

paironly

More

purpose

or

ever

thoughtlessblockhead.

making

spent

should

for herself?' remarked

word

the potter
me

sparrows.

and

reflection.'

and

no

with

answer,

sanguine

are

Hawks

not.

decided

You

evens.

am

be

child Nesera

The

giveyou

I cannot

sir,but

character,noble

your

?'
do you love this young
man
say you, Nesera
The
girlclung closer,and buried her face

"

shoulder,but her silence

soldier's bronzed

The
his
to

follow,but which
'

speak it then
have

name

as

simple

'

Yes

; there

heard

misfortune.
'

was

exquisite
joy.

expected

the

is

what
I

no

has

crime

expect it

Speak
reply,in

to

in it that

harm

passed,and

call

can

be, only by

as

!'
a

her lover's blood

He

or

stepped forward

voice

so

to bound

low

yet

in his veins

if to take

as

and

her,but

restrained his eager advance.

Enough,' said the potter, ' the mischief is done, it is

the hand
'

he

not.

it is what

clear that it caused

with

which

the accents

'

confession,if
A

so

came

catch

continued Masthlion earnestly; I want

child,'
trulywhat thy heart prompts thee to say. If thou
You

see.

can

your
hard

to

in his

eloquent
face gathereda deeper tinge,and

Come, my

thee to say
lovest him
I

strained

were

ears

was

deeper

of Masthlion

but yet the matter

must

rest

as

it is for

time.

am

clear,
yet

NEAERA

16

unconvinced, and

give not

my
of hazard.

brimful
so
partnership
In the meantime, Centurion,I
Martialis

cheeks

Name

'

It is that you

without my
'

It is

no

'

better assured.
condition.'

one

for his beloved

eagerness,

with downcast

now

eyes and

hope.

correspondwith this child

said

the

done

it is much

go, Centurion.

direct

the

!' said the young

to his breast.

before
The

the

I have

Farewell

'No!'
arm

Now

gods
their help.'

Neaera

ask of thee

neither visit nor

it,and

the

may
'

be

must

quickly.

than

more

I believe

need

heedlesslyto

so

knowledge.'

Masthlion.
and

ready to

it !' he said

'

'

consent

his arms,
blushingwith sudden joy and
him

before

stood

burningwith

was

r.

PART

said Martialis.
hitherto,'
returned
to
credit,'
your
Stand
by our agreement ;
to

matter

man,

potter, once

the best end

reachingforward
his
stretching

more

for I

"

to

clasp

ruthless

him.

Centurion

frowned

; but

the

cloud

tender,curvinglipsof Neaera moving,

fled when
as

he

saw

though silently

beautiful
fashioninghis name, and her beautiful eyes, more
the
with the lightof love and
hope and joy. From
still,
he grasped
as
divine smile on her face he drew consolation,
the earthyhand of the potter instead of hers.
With a lingeringlook he drew his cloak around
him, and
received additional lightness
hastened
away at a pace which
and
more
and speed from his feelings.A couple of minutes
the road to Rome.
at a headlong speed on
he was
galloping
withdrew
their visitor had departed,Masthlion
As soon
as
found it vain,
of his premises. He
to his workshop at the rear
however, to try and use his tools during the disturbed state
'

of his mind

; for every

now

and

then

he

discovered

himself

hand, his thoughtsbeing

he threw them
After a wasted half hour, therefore,
far away.
down, and, washing his hands and face,leftthe house to wander

standingmotionless

with them

in his

along the
away on a lonelyramble
in order to
the ravines of the hills,

edge

of the

sea,

give unrestrained

and

up

liberty

in his meditations.
The

mountains

gatheringgloom, and

were
a

looming dark
breath from
chilly

and
the

purple in
dusky sea

the
was

CHAP.

stirring the

his
him.

awaiting
The

familiar

customary
When

He

'

The

'

If you

selfish.

talk

you
Get

Say

it

mischief

of

do

now

"

him

see

no

"

father's

neck

for her

the
go

your

no

for

one

loving ;

humbler

some

neither

am

man.'

me

harsh

nor

sleep, though

can

Rome.'

to

!'

then

she

six

I blame

face, which

handsome

murmured.

feet

or

of

more

beguiled

hath

your

how
much
more
only knows
they are guiltyof already,for

Heaven
nature

same

loving

Nesera?'

try if you

sillygirl;

not,

in

wrong

more.'

hope

with

angry

!'

lipspouted

Her

passed

'

true.

sillygirlishthoughts.
not

all.

father.'

foolishly

not

are

you

you
flesh, and

human

them

upon
meal

done

loved

galloping, this moment,

I blame

'

daughter

the

I blame

you

bed, child, and

to

be

had

good,

will it I will

heart
'

and

gods grant

Nay,

your

less anxious

is noble

'

'

displeased, child.

I be

her

round

arms

I
whispered, Have
displeased with
you

Are
not

am

yet would

and

weighed

'

she

father?

'

put her

Nesera

nightly caress,
him,

wife

lacking, and

was

homeward.

steps

in silence.

and

quickly

his

restraint

chat

ij

his

and

supper

unusual

An

turned

he

simple

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

when

leaves

found

He

TALE

i.

but
little,

she

left the

with

room

light

and

the

step.

firm, determined

The

moisture

dimmed

his massive
'

brow
!' he

Wife

'To

his
and
said

deep-set

'

when
me

here

Ay,
I

and
to

must

passage

eyes.

quivered,

man

passed

He

deep sigh.
going
briefly, I am
'

great city always loaded

of mystery

of the

his hand

over

gave

!' echoed

Rome

mouth

Tibia
her

Rome.'

to

for
fearfully,

simple

rustic

the

mention

mind

with

of the
a

sense

danger.

Rome,'
try and

rejoined Masthlion
find

in his trader

Tiberward.'

your
"

'

the

time

his time

come

Silo will

brother, if alive.

'tis about

has

to

be

give
touching

CHAPTER

the

ON

following

or

Hill

toward

Janiculan
Though

south,

and

noblest

Apennines

level

forms
of

the

the

arranged

by

the

hands
as

ancient

was

it

the

the

city,

prospect
attractions

This

of

the

cluster

of

the

heart

of

Rome,
north

nearly

commanded

the

city itself,as
as

far

base,

well

as

circling

the

as

of

more

by
the

the

of

of

the
like.

for

it

by
its

greater
central

It

above

dwelling
the

was

was

also

now

occupies

far

the

from

the

seclusion,
residence.

in the

and
to

time,
in

noble

the

the

buildings
Neither

seven.

public

places

Nevertheless,
purer

from

Janiculum,

The

urban

society.

crammed

wholly

almost

the

fresher

the

hills, in

classes.

clothed
too

it

opposite.

greatly lacking

lay

city,

the

of

classes, particularly

which

Jews,

wealthy

which

lowest

district,

importance

and

Palatine,

and

preferred

largest, region

and

frequented

its

Transtibertine

interest

curve

triangle, enclosing

and

populated

sharp

the

In

was

traditions

and

of

naturally brought

mount,

who

as

was

immediately

powerful

most

hill
sides

fashionable

fashionable,

some

and

the

plain,

two

advantages

and

suburban

and

were

river

obvious

of

other

quarter

or

the

princely

the

of

the

of

tanners,

stifling valleys

and

line

least, being

of

The

the

altitude,

view

Augustus.

Ghetto,

bank

the

famous

formed

in

fourteenth,

fishermen,

original

hour,

slope

straight ridge running

long

ground.

formed

perhaps

the

more

surrounding

the

straight

the

tract

which

the

which

extensive

of

river

the

in

greatest

most

descended

seventh

beyond.

With

as

the

loveliness

the

of

with

was

and

its

the

Tiber.

river,

the

across

Janiculum,

the

the

about

Rome,

party

included

not

hills

seven

in

day,

small

noon,

II.

air, its
advantages

of

there
nobler
and

CHAP.

TALE

ir.

One

of these

was

OF

ANCIENT

19

had

long retired from

quiet pursuitsof

who

wealthyman

ROME

himself to the
to devote
busy, publiclife,
and gardens he had laid out,
study,in a house he had built,
eminence
of the hill.
a commanding
on
The
brated
celehad
been
of Quintus Fabricius
name
once
in the cityas that of a senator
for uprightdistinguished
ness,
but his public fame
had
almost
firmness,and liberality,
at the
passed away with a new
generation. He was
now,
time we speak of, far better known
in connection
throughout Rome
a

with

matter, which

domestic

will unfold

itself in the

following
pages.
He

of

was

conscience
to

be

could

form

the van, whose

through the

will follow

the small

if wealth,taste, and

an

happy, surelyhe might be

man

in three

walked

They

and

family;

make
We

trulyso.

slaves,who

'

old

an

him, for it is he, and

easy
said

his five

mentioned.
party previously
divisions.

Two

led

way for their master

their cry of
lanes.
When
crowded, tortuous
was
Place, place,'
unheeded, they enforced a passage, after
care
especial

the usual custom, by

and shoulders.
arms
the rear, each
convenience
or

He

He

but

could

and

The

not

ready use

burden
trifling

belonging to

their

of their

of

master.

brawny

slaves walked

in

personal attire
In

the

centre

himself.

yet thick

was

remaining three

spare, but
regularand handsome.

were

cropped,

rough

tall and

was

features

to

bearing some

Fabricius

walked

was

clear

powerfulslaves

have

been

and
less

the

with

His

slightstoop. His
hair,though closely

luxuriant,but white as snow.

than seventy-five
years of age ;
of his limbs,and the healthy

vigorous,free motions
hue of his aged, wrinkled face,denoted
tion,
constitua still sound
preservedby a temperate mode of life. His dark eyes,
though somewhat
sunken, were
yet brightand quick. As he
now
passed along,engaged with no train of thought in particular,
their expressionwas
of settled melancholy abstraction.
one
His mouth
was
closelyknit and firm,but, occasionally,
as
into a
some
poor neighbour saluted him, his lips curved
kindlysmile. His vigorousold age, and the natural nobility
of his appearance,
calculated
to inspirerespect; but
were
there
rank.

were

His

also distinctions in his

toga

was

made

of

dress

which

marked

wool, in its natural colour

his
of

NE"RA

20

PAKT

greenishwhite,a fashion of garment

rank long after
of distinguished
men
into disuse.
it

where

On

the
from

peeped

might be

preserved by

was

toga itself had

the

rightbreast

of his short-sleeved

beneath

gracefulfolds of

glimpseof

seen

which

the

the

fallen

tunic,

the

'

I.

Angustus Clavus,' or

toga,

narrow

which was woven

into the garment, and ran
down
purplestripe,
from each shoulder.
The high buskins on his
perpendicularly
feet were
each fastened in front by four black thongs,
ornamented
sartorial badge of senatorial
by a small crescent, the exclusive,
rank.
Such
littleparticulars
were
trifling
enough in extent,
and
unnoticeable
to
a
stranger, but to a Roman
eye they
denoted
the rank
at
and
once
importance of the wearer.
in the poor
and crowded
They were, however, unnecessary
suburb through which he and his slaves passed leisurely
towards
the river.
He was
well known
in
to the humble
inhabitants,
of the proximityof his mansion, which stood on
consequence
the heightoverlookingthem; and, also,by acts of liberality
and
with full appreciation. Hence,
met
good-nature,which ever
his way through the crowded
and not altogether
as he wound
sweet-flavoured
his vanguard of slaves before mendistrict,
tioned
had only occasion
and
their
to
voices
now
use
again
free passage.
to open
The
a
with
people gave way readily,

gestures of respect.
main

The

brought them,
it curved
them

in

the

point of

stretched

the

Aemilian

and

Mount

the

island

the

over

his

the

fold of his toga

The
'

'

Latus

'

Clavus

was

Clavus

the tunic; it

was

above,

was

worn
was

'

was

In

Tiber.

so,

forked

this

learn

to

old

their

man

to

the

another

Roman
the most

master's

hesitated

personage
Two
three
or

a
as
gentility
disposedwith

before

junction the

slim

as

presented

ringson

knight,and
scrupulous

very distinctive token in the later Roman

days.
a broad
purple band runningdown the centre of

The
only by senators.
of
sign
equestrianrank.

office changed the former

rightline

At

The

route.

his

the

the left hand

turned

did

they traversed
river,
justwhere

Bridge,leading direct

stationary
group.

fingersproclaimed

every

The

before

the

and

pleasureas to his intended

if undecided, and, as he
himself

land.

city;to

of

halted

leading slaves

district which

minutes,nigh to

few

the

round

Palatine
road

of

street

for the latter.

'

Clavus
A

scribed
Angustus,'as desenator
from
retiring

ii.

OHAP.

might be

He

exactness.

TALE

hair,a long

black

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

about

21

of age, with straight

much
downwards, and

fortyyears

curved

very
rather
too
small black eyes,
prominent and close set
As he halted,his lipsparted in a
called handsome.
nose,

displayeda row of brilliantwhite teeth.

him, made him marked
on
perceiving
Fabricius,

The

which

'Titus

murmured

Afer!'

them

of

one

be

to

smile,

slaves of

obeisance.
his

in

master's

ear.

Fabricius looked

up

his momentary

from

deliberation

or

abstraction.
'

Ha, nephew, is it you?' said he.

'

Even

so, dear

You

uncle.

dilemma,' returned the new-comer

dine, uncle, not having settled

to be

seem
'

have

where

to

the horns

on

you

of

started out
in

turn

to

for your

dinner?'

Why, no ; I am going to dine with my old friend Florus

the Quirinal but you, nephew?'
on
I was
coming justto
Oh, I ! it is of no consequence
It is three days since I have seen
spend an hour with you.
With your permission I will turn and go along with
you.
'

"

'

"

"

you, for
'

space, on
the Circus

'
your way, whichever it is !
Flaminius ; it is less crowded, though

a
By
said Fabricius.
littlelongerin distance,'
the left
He gave a slightmotion of his hand, indicating
the Cestian Bridge unto
turn, and they took their way over
the island of the Tiber,sacred to Aesculapius.Thence
by
the bridge of Fabricius they were
quicklyon the opposite
bank, and passinground by the outer side of the Capitoline.
absorbed
So far they walked in silence. The elder seemed
and the younger to be waiting,
in abstraction,
as if in deference
turned
At
to his relative'scogitations.
length the old man

his head

toward

coming
began.

'Were
Titus?'

you

he

'

'

It

went
was
"

None

followed

and

waved

his hand.

rear.

to

tell

me

aught

of

your

mission,

returned his nephew, nodding.

you desired,'
good of you, as ever, nephew ; but to no purpose,
as
ever,'said the old man, adding the last words
as

I suppose
with a weary,
'

farther in

fell back

They

the slaves who

at

half-suppressed
sigh.
all !' rejoinedAfer,with

another

and

deeper sigh.

NEMRA

22

'

The

woman

and,

as

PART

six-and-twenty
years

was

for her

she

appearance,
from your Aurelia,
as a barn-door
tales and rumours
detailed
are

was

fowl from

by

'Ah, nephew
'You

are

an

to

day ;

have

grown

eaglet. These
people simplyto

squeeze

your

purse

I shut my ears?'
bottomless
gold-mine to
unfailing,

these

how

"

an

knavish

your weakness, uncle, and

upon
why listen to them?'

was

to
likely

as

work
"

if she

old

I.

can

people.'
fervidly,
throwingup his open
palm to the blue heavens, and looking up with a burning
glance of his sunken, sorrow-laden eyes, 'if the good gods
back
would
lost darling,the joy of my
only give me
my
old age,
all that I have, to the last farthing,
my gold,and
the streets
of
might be flung,if need be, broadcast over
'

!' cried the

Oh

old

man

"

Rome.'
The

brows

black

of the

nephew

knitted

at the vehement

words.
'

vain

if what
And, truly,

quest

were

you

have

spent already,uncle, on

broadcast, there

sown

gutter vagabond in the citythat would

done

have
my

all you

can

do, and

not

I have

would

be

scarce

be the richer.

helped

to

the

this
a

You

best of

ability.'
'

You

have, nephew, rightnobly. Think

forgottenit.'
Then
why
'

good

cast

after bad ?

Will you

not

not

that I have
be assured

silent years of the hopelessnessof all efforts?'

If I lived to a hundred
years, nephew, I could never
it is part of me.'
hope from me

after all these

'

sever

"

'And
moreover,

I
my

have
reason

none

grieve to say it,and,

than yours
governed by feeling

left,though
is less

"

Aurelia 1'

poor
'

gods overlook us,' said Fabricius,with a quiverin

his voice,while the lipsof the other curled in scorn.
The
to
impudent scoundrel,whom
you sent to pilotme
his supposed discovery,
demanded
thousand
two
sesterces
ere
he would
but I was
forced to pay the
budge. It is horrible,
extortioner.
I would
mention it,uncle, but for my misnot
fortune
of beingnot too well providedwith property.'
than it ever
'It shall cost thee no
more
has,'returned
'

The

CHAP.

Fabricius ;
as

TALE

ii.

it back

shalt have

them

'

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

23

another

and

thousand,

two

well,for thy kindness.'

"

Nay

i should

"

to make

seem

like

robbingyou

trade of

the rest of them.'

'

Say

no

The

nephew, I insist upon it.'

and
silent,
shrugged his shoulders and was
which
the foot of the Quirinal Hill,upon

more,

other

they reached
house

Fabricius

situated where

was

dine.

to

was

so

the

Here

halted.

Afer

'You
'Even
'

Ah

and

so;
!

then

to

old-fashioned

we

dine with Apicius.'

dine at an old-fashioned hour.
men

This Apicius givesfeasts such

'

said Fabricius.

then?'

for the bath

are

Well, every one to their own

will,no doubt, enjoy our modest

and

Florus

tastes.

entertainment

myself

much

as

as

nothing in proportion.

it cost

though
Apicius his profusion,

spending one's money, Titus.'

theless,
Neveruncle.
I am
to copy it,
not likely
From
necessity
if he choose to throw a portionof his away on
me, I

It is

will not
'

of

foolish,empty way

'

refuse it.'
'

danger in it,for
uncle,'said his nephew, laughing; 'if

there is

Yet

subtle

'Nay, nay,
begin to moralise

your dinner
later how mine was

tell you
'

then

Come

Farewell

see

nephew

turned

profitless
expense

and

that

prudent
heir,and not
to

it should

feed

demanded

vagabond
budge. So

he

one

of

two

did,but

brilliant idea

the purse
of scamps
and

"

he
what

spoke

truth when

thousand

only got
a

the

I said

two

ere

hundred

of his

aliens,
himself

Hermes

sesterces

that
he

yon
would

in the

end.

genius it was, on my
infatuation !
Formerly,

stroke of

monopoly of this
sufficient impudence could

part, to obtain
every

mainly into

swindlinghands
wine-shopsand brothels.
that I

of this

him

cure

Assuming, therefore,
unavoidable,it is only just

is

flow

hill,and

the

'

into the

witness

giveme

good appetite.

"

will

going. 'Nothing

them

that all this

What

So

ascend

to

he muttered.
delusive hope, it is clear,'

in order

cold.

served.'

soon,

me

and. his slaves

watched

Afer

to

will grow

you
I will go

!'

Fabricius

will

of.'

dream

never

finest in Rome.'

The

'

and

could

we

as

work

upon

his credu-

NE"RA

24

and
lity,

their

extort

the foolish old

from

terms

own

PART

i.

; but

man

since my appointment as superintendent

I regulate
of inquiries,
and it benefits me.
all to suit my own
ideas.
It pleaseshim
could

Who
'

better?

do

if your

But

increase,as

terms

well

voice in his

Not

as

the deities themselves.'

would

liberal your custom

noble Afer,' said
profits,

were

more

your

deep

ear.

and
knight wheeled round with the swiftness of light,
in the rush of
of the sudden
the severity
seen
surprisewas
His brows
his otherwise pale face.
which
suffused
blood
knitted so as almost to hide the furious glance of his eyes.
whose
complexion,
Before him stood a man
superiorbulk, lighter
broader and less marked
physiognomy,betrayedother
dressed in the rough woollen
than the Latin blood.
He was
tunic of the common
citizen,
girded with a belt of untanned
shod with a kind of sandal,having
leather,whilst his feet were
strong leather soles. The short sleeves of his tunic displayed
His chin was
and needed
his hairy,muscular
arms.
bristly
his hair unkempt and disordered.
He
the razor, and
might
be anythingin the lowest strata of the citycommunity, but
there was that in his loafing,
cunning appearance, which seemed
His attitude,
not to belong to an
honest, industrious mechanic.
The

stood

he

as

whom
regardinghis superior,

he

had

so

familiarly
accosted,was cool and careless,and his smile as
full of impertinenceas assurance.
If a glance could have laid him dead upon the pavement,
before the rage, hate, and
have
he would
fallen,straightway,
which

contempt

But, unabashed,

Afer.
'

Is

'how

it thou?'

It needed

think

to

to shake

The
storm

my

sharp

not
a

this and

between
a

glowingeyes of
jot of his bearing.

voice thick with

elbow

ear

the

to

and

catch
you

play

passion;

the

what

you
might have

the Palatine.

loud, publicvoice,and

dropper?'
eaves-

said,
been

It is dangerous

I recommend

habit,for your own good, patron.'

styleof this speech in no way allayed the

off the

familiar

at

extra

in such

in the mind

leaf,with

lurk

no

somewhere

heard

Afer, in

from

for the noise of the streets

But

patron.

him
upon
he altered

uttered

thou

darest

'

you

flashed

knight,and he shook
whollyto hide.
passionimpossible
of the

like

an

aspen

CHAP.

'You

me,' added

with

angry

the

ROME

ANCIENT

in the humour

not

are

OF

TALE

ii.

to

see

patron

me,
'

coolly;

man

25

it is

are

you

"

plainas

as

thing
any-

be.'

can

which is growingbeyond
heed, or your presumption,
of danger
all bounds, will run
you into a certain amount
'

Take

"

such

impudent vagabond, is it for

menacing

The

warning in

face, might have

his

expressionon

but

ordinarycase,

an

knight,and

of the

tone

dangerous,evil
judged sufficient

the

been

man's

the

echoed

Presumption, patron,'he

hardihood

'

leave,I

differ with

must

since I

months
I have

seen

client.

untroublesome

and
respectful,

"

modest,

times

at chance

wearisome
encourage
but these have
person

presence.
your honourable
for I am
compelled now and

"

intrude

compels
necessity

"

existence

againto

it is full three

Why,

presentedmyself to

you

would

your

myself

"

Nor

in

was

there, with

I consider
you.
in regardto the intimate relations between
a most
us

honour's

your

thus ?

me

daunted.

way
'

accost

to

you

!'

respect, I bid thee, or beware

More

no

as

grateful
sightof

the

by

only been glimpsesat a distance.

myself upon you now, only that hard
In

me.

fact,patron, my

is drained

treasure

this very morning to

the last sesterce, which went
which
strengthwith a draught of vinegar,
failing

inspire
my

to

they called

wine.'
'

I have

nothingto giveyou

You

reason.

have,

stipulated.That
more,

so

you

you are
much
already, had

know

without

of

dinner?

cast

than

more

I will

I.

as

have

had

the blessed

as

much

was

give you

the

as

starve?'

off to

me

horror
burlesqueof righteous

too, who

well

as

importunatebeyond
no

be off!'

'What, patron, and

mouthful

"

this with

"

in his looks

and

of

cost

gestures
"

a
a

'

I,

fortune to do you such service !

noble patron and
changed his

reptilehas bitten my
Poor
nature.
Cestus, then, may go and hang himself,or
throw himself to fatten the pike in the Tiber ; but no
you
Cestus, thus empty and naked
cannot, surely,refuse poor
before you.'

Some

"

'Silence!' cried
without

the
attracting

he

of the

toga, as

attention of the

nothingspendthrift,
you

have

had

he

as
fiercely

passers-by.

enough

to

have

'

could,

Good-for-

made

you

NE^ERA

26

for the

wantless

of

amount

remainder

in its use

care

PART

of

life,with

your

i.

ordinary

an

!'

of my betters,
the fashion of many
patron.
is an excellent way of becoming
be free with one's treasure
'

To

only follow

better

popular and powerful none

Enough, I have said !
"

If you

'

insolence behind
seek

to

you, among
before me.'

come

in Rome

"

least.'

at

wise you will leave your

are

pot companions,when

your

you

Surely,patron, when you consider the matter calmly,you

stantly
said Cestus,assuming incan
hardlyrefuse me a small present,'
a mock
respect,which was only too palpablyimpudent.
and the heaving of his breast stirred
The knight bit his lip,
the folds of his toga with rapid pulsations.
'do you imagine I would
fool!' he said bitterly;
'You
!
I can
afford no more
beggar myselfto enrich you ? No
May I be cursed if I should ever think of bringingyou to
the satirical answer.
Far
sad state as mine,'was
the same
'

'

"

'

'

that,I know,

from

fed from

grateful
spray

the

as

stream

well,that the fountain of your purse is

of Latium, even
which
out
flows unfailing
so

of

aqueduct from the waters

the stylefor once, patron : you
excuse
of a poet.'
the household
fed

the

by

words

These
in

being

drew

upon
which
position

It is wonderful

to

me,

him

rendered

coffers.

own

your

My

for my tongue.
enduring man.'
excuse

'

am

"

of your
'

burning answer.

tickled,or your

ribs
noble

the

full

devotion

to

But, patron

tavern

of

careless

continued

such

his simile.
to

content

are

see

old fountain, when

worn

you

"

are

would

flavoured

most

dog,'was

enduring man
cup

in

once

was

gloriousflood straightto
your welfare is my only

insolence,you
less

will

You

viperous look, but

patron, that you

direct
might,so easily,

you

know

another

scanty driblets filtered through a

such

of heaven.

he
feelings,
superior's

exhibitions of his
'

him

Esquilineyonder, is

the

Orpheus, on

long

the

rapid and

have
ere

patient,

had

your

this,

most

Cestus.'

The

man

palpablychanged

colour

and

winced

; but if the

of his patron had not the effect of quellinghim, they

into a
changed his easy impertinenceand effrontery
instantly
words

sullen,dogged front

CHAP.

TALE

ii.

ANCIENT

OF

Give

me

some

dark, loweringvisage,if we

find that
and

money

let

two

me

Good

smile

if in

ruffled you.
with me
such an

triumph,for

he

As

not

am

it,

cannot

seemed

as

of mine

should

carryingabout

will doubtless

sider
con-

to walk

the favour

house, dear Cestus ?'

Cestus hesitated,
and looked doubtinglyon the unexpected
spectacleof his patron'spoliteness.His cunning nature was
as

me

far

amount

actuallyallowed

in the habit of

of money
as
you
to ask,perhaps you will do me

proper
with

humour

part his lips. I grievethat words

have

and

must,

'

to

have

I must

"

that

!'
trifling

more

suddenly to change, as
a

play at

can

go

have it you
If you must
the
refuse,'answered
knight,whose
'

27

'

Come,' growled he, with

get to threatenings,
you shall
'

game.
and no

ROME

as

my

suspicious.
'What
a changeable
man

!' was

the

bland

of the

remark

robber

demanding his wants, like a

ago he was
tearing
spoilfrom a victim. Now when he is asked to

walk

short way

other;
a

'a

minute

to

receive

tricks,master

'No

it,he hangs
else!'

or

"

back.'

said

Cestus, eyeing him

keenly.
'

Tricks !

Afer

indeed

the

are

Come
!'
very coarse.
close
at his heels,so

led the way with the man

that he turned
and motioned
him

Their

district which

and

You

then

distance.
a

not.
Certainly

the

Fora.

as
city,

well

to

keep

course

laythroughthe middle

lay in

the

It

was

one

as

the

most

between
valley,
of the

most

the

at

of the

greater

Subura,

Eastern

ancient

denselypeopled,and

hills

districts of
noted

for

its crowded

its noise and dirt.

its low society,
thoroughfares,
to a
Occasionallythe traffic would come
dead-lock,amid
much
shoutingand forcible language,caused,perhaps,by the
heavy wain, laden with blocks of building
stoppage of some
hauled along with ropes.
material,
some
Or, again,
great man,
in his
some

who

surrounded
litter,

by

his servants, thought fit to halt,for

His suite would, thereupon,
ways.

in the narrow
purpose,
become
the nucleus of
cast

another

frowning glances at

squeezingcrush
the

litter and

of

pedestrians,

its occupant.

place,his greatness, moving along, would meet

with a like obstruction,
and there would
be seen
the spectacle
of rival slaves battlinga passage
the
through. Nor were
At

28

NEMRA

of the tradesmen

customs

calculated

they intruded

for
limited space.

Their

I.

PART

increase the

to

their business

into the

venience,
publicconalreadytoo

stalls

then failed
jutted out, and even
their occupations. A cobbler hesitated
to confine
altogether
not
to ply his awl in public,
to shave his customer
nor
a barber
outside his door.
The gutters were
sters
frequentedby noisyhuckfrom
plyingtheir trade,and sellingall kinds of articles,
sulphurmatches to boiled peas and beans. Importunatebeggars
rife with every sorrow,
lame, sick,and blind,to the

and ailment; from the

complaint,
shipwreckedsailor,
a fragment
carrying

were

of his ill-starredship over

sad lot.

the

Down

with

crammed

blackguards,bullies

scum

loafed

aired themselves

and

daylightidlesse

of

shoulder,as a proof of his

alleyswere noisome,reekingdens
of the city. Thieves, murderers,

narrower

the

his

about

tillthe
human

; fallen

also loitered

women

eveningapproached,when
filth betook

itself to

all this

its

frightful
of crime and wickedness,either in its own
occupations
refuges,
flooded
abroad
the
this
Yet
from
its
or
city.
district,
upon
central position,
and even
was
necessarily
frequented,
inhabited,
in a few cases, by the higher orders of society.To imaginean
unsealed
tract
of the east end of modern
a
or
Whitefriars,
London, cramped and narrowed, after the styleof the old
Roman
fashionable
two
city,and placed between
quarters,
best

give the

would

It

Rome.

the

was

idea of the character

situation
peculiar

of the

of the

Subura

citywhich

of

led

to

this

where no part
intermixingof classes. In a cityof a plain,
of the ground offers any advantage over
another, the wealthy
form a district select from the poor.
In Rome, the
naturally
faces of
great and wealthysought the elevated and pleasanter
while the poorer peopleremained beneath.
the hills,
Thus the
however
intermediate valleys,
populated,unavoidablybecame
and no doubt, to a certain extent, the haunts of
thoroughfares,
all classes.

Through
characters.

an

each

our

two

their way
after their own
knight,slim,supple,and quick,slippedalong

and

the Subura
corner

and

contact

the accustomed

the other hand

nook

will follow

threaded

eel, avoiding all

openingwith
every

teeming Subura, then, we

They
The

manner.

like

the

ease
was

was

the

of

glidingthrough
person citybred.

home

familiar.

of
This

every
On

Cestus, to whom

fact,combined

TALE

CHAP.

ii.

with

his

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

29

more

superiorweight and bulk,rendered his

careless and independentof passers-by,
some

came

into

collision with him,

recognisedby

moreover,

their

to

than

more

movements

of whom
He

sorrow.

own

fellow inhabitant

one

was,
as

he

as idle and
rough looking
passed along. Two or three fellows,
as
himself,leered knowinglyat him from the open front of a
nodded
one
lounging. Another
wine-shop where they were
and winked
from out of a reeking,steamingcook-shop
to him
where he was
munching a lightmeal of the simplestcharacter.
one
Among the many street idlers,
greasy vagabond,with an
evil,bloated face,went so far as to catch his arm and whisper,
with a coarse
thy
laugh, 'What, Cestus, boy, hast hooked
back like a prince!' But Cestus
patron? Thou wilt come
shook
him
off,and having cleared the Subura, he and his
path,and the short,steep
patron entered on a less crowded

EsquilineHill.

of the

ascent

the summit

they passed a statue of Orpheus. He was

representedplayingon the lyre to a group of wild animals,
At

modelled
exquisitely
music.
The
inspired
circular basin
danced

in the attitudes of rapt attention to the

placed in the centre of a large
group was

receptionof

for the

and

the

usually
spray, which
musician.
of the immortal

sparkledfrom the head

On this day, however, for some
dry.
reason, the fountain was
As
he passed, the knight turned
round, and, pointing
with his fingerto draw his follower's attention to the fact,
said,
with a cold smile, My Cestus,when
likened
the supplyof
you
a bad
parison
commy funds to the feedingof that fountain,
you made
it is a bad omen,
Do you
good and faithful man.
'

"

accept it ?

I do.'

"

Cestus

was

'

in

no

way
!' muttered

Humph
and empty
dry figures
short of water
just at
! omen,

water
to

my

or

patron.' And
another

of

no
'

small

Step in,man,

terms,'said

superstition.
he, bestowinga partingglance at the
"

! I shall stillremain

he followed

hundred

dwelling,small

the age in

basin ; ' plague on the aediles for falling

this time !
No
matter
water, or no

omen

no

behind

and

yards Afer
modest,

portionof
and

on

the

drink

but

with

faithful client

grin.

After

before

ceeding
pro-

the

stopped
porch
looking
oversituated,
pleasantly

city.
cup

of wine

he, with ironical politeness.

while

we

arrange

NEJERA

30

But

suspicionwas

some

he did

other and

Cestus, with

said
'

'

stir.

not

shake

awakened
'

in the

Bring it to

me

breast

of the

I will wait

"

i.

here,'

of his head.

you have not told

Six thousand
will serve
But

what

me

want.'

you

me.'

are

growingmodest,

Cestus

stillrefused to

You

PART

Cestus

and

come

"

I will

give

it you.'
But
'

Why

what

"

do you

liked not,

that bodes

you now
wall between

no

I said

What

drawing near
are

and

there

who

to

me

as

He

me

opened

which

had

Fool, do you

dead

made

think

No
work

tell

men

breathless

you

which

I would

; you

you

hurt you

are

as

to

do

for you

no

necessary
come

"

'

of the doorways
proceeded to one
spacioushall,or atrium,as it was called,

off the

tesselated floor and

the sound

upon

"

inside,and

went

which

At

thing
some-

will,therefore,

suffered the behaviour

"

said

have

me.

is

'

have

than you would harm

I have more
I to you

more

any

with.

there

enough,'said the knight,

a
peculiarlook ; there

him

that,would

'

street.'

true

was

would

if they had

long ago,
favoured

the open

met, that

we

good.

no

fasteningupon

tales,"
and, actingon
have

and

me

over

in Rome

scores

carcase

Afer.

something over there,where

returned
Cestus doggedly ;
patron,'

about

'

fear?' demanded

the house.

said

'You

put

proceed inside

him.

of his foot
Cestus

appeared

followed

more

small fountain
two

or

three

in the midst.
slaves

slowly,with

to

wait

keen, wary

glance at the various doors and passages around, as though

belch forth vassals to fasten on
they might, at any moment,
him.
The
knight lifted the curtain of an apartment and
him to follow.
He
did so, and found
beckoned
himself,with
in a small room,
of misgiving,
small amount
no
lightedby a
window
of glass. There
a
were
narrow
couple of couches, for
and
furniture,
or

four bronze

to

these

small

statues

the walls

were

carved
of

table,and, for ornament,

exquisite
workmanship.

adorned

with frescoes

three

In addition

of

mythological
Afer, standingwith the

done by no unskilful hand.

subjects,
in one
curtain stilluplifted
hand, pointed with the other to a
couch, and, bidding his follower wait,disappeared. Cestus
of the doorway,with
remained motionless,
watchingthe screen
all his

senses

strained like

beast

of prey, to

catch

the

least

CHAP.

sound.

an

and

threw

There, my

take them

broad

The
it away

fastened

hand

to the table

came

six thousand

are

of

eyes of

sesterces

economically.'

them

use

end

It

worthy Cestus,

and

He

the

and the
jingledas it fell,
the precious
on
object.

thereon.

bag

31

his ear, till,

at

reached

hour, his patron returned.

flashed and

Cestus

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

nothing

But

quarter of

'

TALE

ii.

of the

the

fell upon

man

bag

and

thrust

in the breast of his tunic.

going to tell it over to see that I

cheat you not?' said Afer mockingly.
No
I can
noble patron,'
answered
trust your counting,
Cestus hurriedly
I will go, for I am
now
cravingwith
; and
hunger.'
thirst!' added
'And
Afer, clappinghis hands loudly.
'

What

are

"

not

you

'

"

'

The

echo

hardlydied

had

entered,bearinga cup and

At

nod

flagonand
and

his

from

declined

with
could

have

'I

dare

not

drink

; 'tis

rare

wine, but

from

sheer
'

of

want

of confusion.

amount

some

direst need

indeed

Greek
slave
young
largervessel of variegatedglass.

compelled him
with

allow

noble

food, most

it for you, O
said Afer, with a
delicate,'

you

grow
to us both !'
He

emptied
'

drained

it

off,and

the

such

stomach
to

me

go,

patron

hesitated

"

the

sacrifice.

I shall

or

not

drop

I shall !'

indeed

stomach

derisive laugh ;

slave

the

I dare

"

of tender

man

from

Nothing but

make

to

empty

an

I will drink

Then

he filled the cup with wine

Cestus. But that individual

master

it to

handed

when

away

'

"

fortune

disappearedwith

the

cup.

If I want

thee

soon

can

hear of thee at the

place,

same

Cestus?'
'As
'

I will

sausages
'

usual !'

you

keep
can

longer.

you no
find.'

Thanks, noble patron

you

"

Go

and

will find

feed

on

ever

me

the

best

ready

and

devoted.'
'As

I found

thee this

very soon.'
With these words

drawinga long breath

pace

which

morning. Expect

they emerged
as

utterlybelied

he
his

saw

into the

the way

state.
fainting

to

hear

of

me

hall,and Cestus,

clear,went

off

at

CHAPTER

the

~G*ROM
-*-

furnished

which

led

to

stride,

hasty

compressed,
he

pondered
lacking,

he

was

he

turned

and

Though
Domitius
with

Afer

Fabricius,
him

rank

small,

we

somewhat

symmetry

reigned

still

rare

more

chilliness

magic

There

was

had

finish, have

place

The

combination

perform

wonders

of

requires

inexhaustible

Caesar.

and

remained

Afer
atrium

coarseness,

of

his

house

T.

man,

connection

birth,

of

house,

which

ordered

rounds

regularity, by

and

the

the

formal

artful

an

the
and

by

off

to

though

Harmony

appointments,

hour.

taste.

statue,

amid

shock

and

the

with

which

the

we

design

and

call

taste

of
can

appliances.

meanest

with

together

of

magnificence

household

faculties

couch,

nor

vase,

delicacy

and

the

minutes

deep

carved

nor

beauty

resources,

in

right
His

to

dinner

his

from

to

negligence.

delight

some

him

exquisite

hand,

of

to

Then

possessing

the

its

from

not,

money

master

its

painting,

no

might

which

graceful

of

of

all

chastity

perfect

of
touch

timely

of

of

and

by

tion,
mortifica-

wealthy

order.

ruled

lips

luxury

the

to

sufficient

of

with

sum

daily

call

means,

the

accompany

previous

equestrian

over

to

would

gather,

quality

rare

in

of

out

its extortion.

indispensable

incontestably

was

of

the

and

the

lobby

smile,

while

wraih

well-

or

sour

on

prepare

sufficient

the

among

with

his

vanished

stood

He

manner

Rome

may

he

passed,

indulged

of

with

which

had

an

what
was

passage

slaves

was

not

the

aching

hateful

his

usually

and

Roman,

the

which

bath,

down

marked,

heart
what

on

bade

watched

porch.

the
a

and

Afer

with

leap,

filled
as,

and

street,

with

atrium

retreat

almost

or

which

sunlight

the

client
the

his

of

centre

III.

barbaric

It

ance
ignor-

senses.

pacing

thought.

up

Then

and

down

rousing

the
himself

(-HAP.

beheld

he

his

slaves

unguents, and
he
therefore,
baths in the
of

moderns

other

head

call

robed

thus, the

house

of

33

well

further

delay,

some
proceeded
private
he enjoyed the company
the physicalrefreshment
of

to

as

bath.

rubbed
strigil,

When
;

he

when

had

he

dry and

leisurely

had

finally

anointed

from

perfumed unguent, his youthfulGreek

him

with
he

chair,which

borne

ROME

Without

delightful
process
a

exactingtaste, and
sedan

and

Turkish

the

foot with

to

attendant

of

house

neighbourhood,where

through
scraped with

been

necessaries.

left the

this

gone

ANCIENT

awaitinghis departure,with towels,

as
acquaintances,

some

what

OF

TALE

in.

short

elaborate

most

left the

awaited

baths
him

distance

at

which

care

to

step into

to

the

doors.

suit his
a

kind

He

was

intervened, to

the

Apicius,on the Palatine,the most fashionable

almost the exclusive
to become
Rome, and finally

one

quarter in
property of the emperors.

whereon opened the magnificent

courtyard,
in.
of a very largeand imposing mansion.
He went
entrance
The loftyinterior gleamed with rich marbles and gilding,
and
the air was
laden with the scent
of the perfumed fountain
which twinkled and sparkledin the shaft of light,
descending
from the blue sunny sky through the square opening in the
of the roof.
centre
Beyond was the vista of the entire length
of the house, throughits columns
and peristyle
to a portico
and ornamental
garden beyond. The sumptuous magnificence
which
the eye at every turn, the priceless
met
statuary,the
frescoes on
and
every wall,the rare, polished,carved wood
and tapestries,
betokened
the lavish
stone, the ivory,gilding,
Crossingthe spotlessfloor of
extravagance of vast wealth.
of the same
marble,Afer was ushered into a receptionroom
rich character,
where lounged or stood some
half dozen guests
proachabl
engaged in conversation. Our knight'sattire,
though of irretaste and
fashion,was modest compared with the
richness displayed
of those he now
rubbed
superlative
by some
against.
Charinus was
a
dandy of the first water, whose glorious
nately
garments, oppressiveperfumes,smooth, well-tended,effemihandsome
face and languidhauteur,at once
betrayed
his disposition
and ambition.
Flaccus was
still
a dandy, whose
youthfuland ambitious mind animated a physicalorganisation
He

in
alighted

NEJERA

34

the
disguise

i.

vigourand beauty. Art did its best to

blightof time,and age put a good face

bereft "of

since

long

PART

ruthless

impotence, whilst it was being racked with follies and

which belonged to its grandchildren.So the withered
excesses
with green boughs, seeking to hide
old trunk stuck itself over
its sapless rottenness, but succeeding only in rousing the
laughterof men.
In the puffyface,and uncertain wavering eyes of Pansa,
the
could be seen
togetherwith his nervous, tremblingfingers,
on

its

; whilst

of drunkenness

demon

looks,marked

dejected,downcast

duringa
spirits,

brief

Torquatus,

unlike

he

Flaccus,retained

in the company

included

was

the wine

separationfrom

cup.
foolish vanityin his

no

simpleattire bore
as
Curiosity
might be awakened

the rest.

sullen,

nightmare depressionof

his

years, and

advanced

his

apart, and

his seat

strong
the

to

contrast
reason

to

why

present, for peevish,snappish

written symbols in his prying,

sharp,small
thin, sourly
eyes, in his hard, withered,wrinkled face, and
was
acidity

plainas

host,in the middle of these,Afer

his respects. Unheedful, unanswering to

proceeded to

pay
the chatter around

his

in his reflections.
then

on

the

lips. To

down-drawn

chair,the

He

leant his head

firston

sat absorbed
one

hand

and

if a
as
restlessly,
pale,and his brows

continuouslyand
other,shifting

the

uneasy thoughts. His

and
contracted.
Ever
slightly
to

prey

lord of the house

face

was

anon,

when

his attention

was

something of interest,he gave a nod, or

glimmering smile,rather weary and ghastly than otherwise.
of the dandies,his guests ; for
His dress was
the envy even
desired

to

hear

garment, which all wore,

upper
made
of silk
convenient for table than the toga, was
more
of such extravagant cost, as
at that time,in Rome,
fabric,
his

or
'synthesis,'

loose

"

be forbidden

as
a

to

few years before the date

of Afer before him roused him

by imperialedict only a

of this story. The

from his reverie.

appearance

'Welcome, my
shaking himself,as

friend,'said he, extending his hand, and

with his duties

'

I trust

as

you
rasped the voice
vent

sneer.

if to

host;
marked
of

clear away all thoughts that interfered

'welcome
to my
poor house !'
the poverty as you came
through,'

Torquatus, the

sour,

ever

on

the watch

to

CHAP.

in.

'

all of whom

'

ANCIENT

35

he

exchanged

returned
host,'
generous
courtesies with the smiling
guests,

faster stillto eat his

! ho !

Ho

SOME

he knew.

And

cried

OF

to greet Apicius,
our
hastily

came

Afer,as
'

TALE

Torquatus,I

Apicius,joiningin

added
dinner,'

see

the

briskness in his appearance.

'Who
arrived firstto his

the old

man.

in your best humour,'

vivacityand
laugh,with more
are

you

appointment,Apicius?'inquired

Afer.
'

When

here alone
'

slave called

my
to

Then

to the room,

me

I found

Torquatus

greet me,' repliedthe host.

has

Torquatus the best rightto the best part of your

dinner,noble host,since his eagerness to eat it outstripped
us
all. Hungry Torquatus !
Loud
the snarlingreplyof the
laughterfrom all drowned
but his scowlingeyes spoke volumes.
old man,
'Thou
hast it fairly,'
the merriment
said Apicius,when
but don't be ill-humoured,
ceased ;
comes
Torquatus it so illbe'

'

"

thee.'
The

juvenilemirth

dislocated

of the enamel

some

aside

drawn

to

his sides

shook

at

this,and

his face ; and ere the amusement

heavy purple curtain of the doorway

subsided,the

had
was

of Flaccus
on

admit another

comer,

in the

man

prime

of

his age, of tall commanding presence

and handsome
nance.
counteHe bestowed
one
rapidglance upon the occupants of
the room,
and ere their eyes, in turn, were
his lipswere
in a bland smile.
wreathed
'

As
the

ears

lips.
the

Prefect

The

new

the

name

Sejanus!
of

the

'

announced

the slave

powerfulman

most

drawn

the door.

at

in Rome

and

arrival,
eager

to

salute him.

dandy,
Flaccus,the elderly

himself

into

caricature of

dignified
severity.Even

tremulous

eyes, and

were
greetings

into

on

it banished
the laughterfrom their
company,
Followingthe example of their host,theypressedaround

was

posed

fell

of the

like the
small man, tried to strain himself,
fable,into an individual of imposing appearance.

who

him,

towards

current

rose

his chair.

over, the conversation soon

of liveliness and jest,
under

imperialminister's good

humour

and

But

elevated

elevated

Pansa

when

fell back

his

the first

once

the influence

indiscriminate

the

Torquatus

philosopherof

the nerveless

from

frogin

more

of the

affability.

NE"RA

36
'

'

Come, friends,it is time

their

what

to

cannot

enter

love ; but yet,for once

'
is the finest feast
What

get

abide

dinner

by

comes

equal attraction

an

as

! here

Ha

bring them.
my

i.

said Apicius;
table,'

to

yet absent,let them

are

unpunctuality
may

Caius,I

one.

to

laggardswho

for the

and

PAirr

'

to

in love !

man

Heed

him

not,

said Sejanus,graspingthe hand of the newcomer.

Martian's,'
smiled in response to
of about thirty,
The latter,
man
a young
until a slave
of badinage which followed this initiative,
a shower
entered and

announced

the feast in readiness

to

be served.

lack one, but he is ever

'tispart of his religion.Let him take the empty place
behind
when he thinks fit.' So saying,he took Sejanus,as his most
'

Come, then !' cried the host

'

we

"

distinguished
guest, by the hand, and,
led the way to the dining apartment,
with

an

followed
where

equipage of preciousmetal, awaited

by the others,
table,blazing

them.

of these pages to enter

into a detailed
purpose
of the extravagance, the innumerable
and curious
description
It is

no

dishes,of a Roman
have alreadydone
with.
lavished

so

meal

of the

in accounts

recital of the

The
on

banquet

first order.

which

are

Antiquaries

to
easily

ingenuity,invention,and

is extraordinary
to modern

measurement

be

met

wealth
of

Fish,fowl,and beast were

brought
in
ends
of
the
order
that
from the
earth,
jaded appetitesmight
nibble at them, or at some
particular
part of them, dressed by
art ; and, in the present instance,
a chefof the highest
nothing
historic
from
of
the
feast
be
who
won
one
was
lacking
likelyto
fame as a gourmand.
Nor
the entertainment
deemed
sufficient of itself,
but
was
it must
be served in an apartment of splendour equal to the
That of Apicius did not
occasion.
aspireto the noveltyand
outlaybrought to bear on the saloon of Nero's golden house
like a theatre,
constructed
of a few years later,which
was
which changed at every course.
with scenes
But, for a private
into degraded
individual,of a period just launchingfairly
luxury,his dining-room was, perhaps,the most magnificentin
the city.
Along with the cunning of workers in ivoryand precious
it
metals,the hand of the painter and sculptorhad adorned
of their genius. In the centre
with the best children
of
luxuryand extravagance.

CHAP.

the

apartment
the

had
It

OF

ANCIENT

placed the
costing the

was

of

repute

made

was

TALE

in.

the

from

ROME

which
dinner-table,

square
owner

citron

of beautiful markings was

perfection
highlypolished,and the massive legs
carved
of ivoryand gold,elaborately
were
table

They
in

diners

their

lengthat his
his

was

extremities

three

sides of the

same

manship.
costlywork-

deeply fringedcloth

of

The

latter

were

assist the

to

reclined

Roman

full

at

and, while he reached for his food with

level than the couch,
to the table,on
a lower
and hand, aided by the cushions,supported

his left elbow

and

It

supported it
the

at

On

with

attitude,for the

meals

righthand

his head

match.

to

which

of the

couches

spread

were

cushions

and

gold

three

ranged

were

lions' feet.

of

semblances

the

whereby

tree,
obtained.

the

into

in itself.

fortune

the

of

roots

37

upper

part of his body in

convenient

lounging

posture.

knotty face

of

twisted into a
Torquatus involuntarily
his companions stretched themselves
as he and
grimaceof delight
in their placesaround
the glittering
table.
The
failing
The

emitted
eyes of Pansa
jarsof Falernian wine

feeble

slave who

of the
of
slippers

up

each guest

attended

who
a

diners

all the

them

to

slow measured

the diners

acted

as

drawn

table.

and
strain,

the dressed
in dividing

off

critical as

to

the

business

to

show

fine linen
set

his

before them

whatever

gave their utmost

of the eveningwith a

energy
zest

as

and

ravened

like

beast

of

and

prey.

fell,

began

to

with perspiration.
Charinus,the exquisite,
glisten
curious and highly-seasoned
at the most
delicacies,
The
first deep
of a gourmand.
pampered appetite

and

with the

Then

edged with gold

hard, protuberantmuscles of his face heaved

under the skin,which soon
and worked, incessantly,
The

nibbled

dexterity

music.

keen.

Torquatus gobbled

shine

shalling
mar-

ceremonies,the
by their own domestics,

to the beat of the

spread their napkins of

attention

brated
cele-

of musicians struck
company
the professional
of the
carver

commenced

viands

old

of

master

their servants
and directing
to
fringe,
delicacythey fancied,they forthwith
and

the

on

Opimian brand, the most

perfectly
priceless.
were
placed accordingto the

were

forthwith

establishment

they fell

as

of the

vintageof all,and
When

flash

NE"RA

38

the
It

restrung his

his face lightened,

eyes brightened,
forward to
he reached
of his lips,
briskly

smack

and

Pansa

i.

His

drooping nerves.
and, with

restored

Falernian

old

of

draught

PART

justplaced before

his slave had

which
golden platter,

him.

of his countrymen to temper their wine with

of the Apennines,
but,beyond coolingit with the snows

the custom

was

water

that his slave troubled

so
approved of no such folly,
of
than to give an
the water
appearance
pitcherno more
succeeded
returned
cup his vivacity
decency. As cup rapidly
Pansa

his tongue became

guest who in the

and
The

still at

though

witty.

hand,
drink

followed

above

his

example,
Martialis,

Caius

his

the

host, on

placed

left

its marks

on

and he appeared to
features of this young
man,
and
talk with an
even
increasingrecklessness,

noble

the

restoration.

marvellous

had
Dissipation

third couch.

or

was
distance,

and

occupied the place next

who

was

greatest measure

considerable

It

and

desperation.
the

entered
each

middle

in the

Whilst

to

room

couch, the

make

number

rather short in stature

of the

first

course

the

last guest
of nine
three to

up the number
The
of the muses.

"

new-comer

was

with squat, dark features,

thick-set,

and

As he came
into the
though descended from negro blood.
with a supercilious
look.
he glanced round
room
Scarcely
markedly to Sejanus,whilst
bending to his host,he bowed more
he seemed
to ignore utterly.
of the company
the remainder
as

The

his host

for him

reserved

seat

the worst

"

was

at the table.

the ill-concealed smiles of the

bidding him welcome,

of

triumph

and

the lowest

sank

relief.

He

the

took it with

couch

next

scowl,amid

Apiciushimself,after
his cushions with a sigh

others.

back

Zoilus

on

on

the

the
millionaire,

son

of

slave,the great rival of himself in the extravagance of Rome,

splendidsilk garment, but it was only edged with

figuredand wrought
gold,whereas his own was most beautifully
had

on

with the
The

enormous

over.

acquiredwealth

of this

him
a
it,made
but, while people applauded

ostentatious
fashion ;

all

same

use

of

and
individual,

very
and

noted

leader

truckled

to

his
of

him

and arrogance.
He
they scoffed aside at his innate vulgarity
edly
began his dinner,at once, by askinghaughtilyand ill-humourunusual dish. It was
at once
for some
supplied. Apicius

CHAP.

ate
was
same

TALE

in.

ANCIENT

OF

ROME

39

calmly on, and the rest smiled and winked covertly. It

the champions of luxury. The
between
a trialof strength
than once
throughoutthe banquet ;
thinghappened more

art
was
nothing,however rare, in the range of culinary
could suglackingfrom the plate of Zoilus that his ingenuity
gest.
calm
and
The
face of Apicius,
covered
stoical,
though
defection of his cook,
a heart devoured
by anxiety. A slight
in the study of their records,a trifling
take
misa slight
oversight
in the combination
misadventure
of their ingredients,
or

but

might

have

criticism.

opened

the way

the

and
perfectionof culinary
utmost

had

decorative

art, combined

rarity. Praises

varietyand

flew

from

fired into ecstasies of admiration and

lip. Some were

pleasuresat on
He

perfect. The household,from

surpassed itself. The result was

was
everything

But

its officers downwards, had

the

if courteous
for his rival's adverse,

with

lip to
wonder;

countenance,
except that of Zoilus.
silent for full a quarter of an
hour.
His

every

remained

was
exhausted,and his enemy's armour
ingenuity
unpierced.
the culminating
It was
pointof the complete pre-eminenceof
and the butler,
with much
Apicius. He gave a sign,
solemnity

and

ceremony,

own

hands, amid
The

set a
a

magnificentdish

on

the table with

his

flourish of the musicians.

guests looked

curiously.

on

the name
of the delicacy
which steamed
Apiciusannounced
the gleaminggold. He
bade them
on
try it. Its stylewas
and
novel
Rome.
to
A
entirelynew
cut
portion was
and

handed

to

Sejanus;

Its delicious and

novel

after him

flavour

the others

served.

were

proved by the enraptured

of each feaster as he tasted the portionset before
expressions
him.
It had only one
as Pansa
fault,
said,with a sigh there
not
and the
was
enough of it. Zoilus was left to the last,
only remainingpieceon the dish was placedbefore him. Livid
was

"

tremblingwith passionhe motioned it away, muttering

it. Apicius,
to digest
something about his inability
therefore,

and

with mock

'Good!'

regret,beckoned

the slave to transfer it to himself.

said

he, when he had finished it,speaking to

his steward, whose
him.
'Tell Silo,
glance hung upon
Hippias,and Macer, that they have surpassed themselves.
Their master
is well pleasedwith them
with you all. He
will not forget.'
"

NEMRA

40

It is to

fame

Further
carcase

has preservedonly the

regrettedthat history
this remarkable
production of Apicius'kitchen,
which

of

subsequentlyfilled

than

that
relating

of

small

details are

the

foundation

aristocratic circles.
of the dish

was

the

unknown

animal,capturedin the limits of

brought home by a recentlyarrived ship,all

empire,and

the

T.

be

tradition of
the

PAKT

wanting.
this

Gradually, after
fell more
languidly,
stomachs

and

admitted

to

incident,the
interesting

their

at

ease

their

on

guests,

cushions,with laden

appeased appetites. Beyond nibblingfurtively

at sweet
dainties and fruits,
there was
only inclination left to
sipat the preciouswine, and to employ their tongues and laugh
at each other's wit.
this stage Apicius himself reBut from
lapsed
into his former
unconscious
fit of silent,
once
more
abstraction. The
minutes gathered into hours, and chatter
and jestflew uninterruptedly
around.
Only at times the host
roused by the jestingchallengesof his guests,rallying
was
him
the subject of his absorbed
reflections.
on
the
Among
numerous
of Apicius this,the guests
gloriousentertainments
each

other

in

the most
an
aside, was
many
had
And
perfectRome
yet known.
yet, instead of being
blithe and jocund with success, the hospitable
entertainer reclined
with

sip his

melancholy,fixed

wine

an

effect

its

tone

opening his lipsonly to

eyes
time to time.
This could not
fail to have

from

"

for what ought to have been the inspiraeventually,

tion
of their conviviality
and mute.
was
cold,fireless,
They
for
their
at
on
some
time,but,
cheerfulness
struggled
length,
influence of those fixed,
sank beneath the chilling
cast
sad, downsocial meeting largely
A
takes
eyes and heedless ears.
its

from

slower and

more

and

Flaccus

from

each

leader,and when the conversation

Afer exchanged glanceswith
fitful,

with

to

each

Apicius back

from

good-feelingto
seized the
his absence

Sejanus

Charinus.
the

to

to

detain

snubbed, he waited

became

round
Meaning looks went
seeminglyunconscious Apicius,and

each
him.

other.
More

Zoilus
or

had

love

no

less discomfited

and

longer,kicking againstthe pricks,but

and began to rise,briefly
opportunity
hintingthat
was

no

necessary.

if from
as
suddenlystarting,
Stay !' said Apicius,
Stay yet
hearingthese words spoken in his ear.
'

at

or

'

dream,

for

few

CHAP.

Zoilus.

moments,
I have

me

was

OF

to

prey

ROME

41

for
imploreyour pardon,friends,

"

ANCIENT

reflections and

my

unworthy even

of

!'
indulgence
Nay, noble Apicius,
every

barbarian

It

forgottenyou.
"

I pray you

see

give

your
'

by

fallen

behaviour

was

TALE

in.

is liable to be

one

overridden

his

said Sejanus.
thoughts,'
'True, and I will forthwith give you the clue to mine,'
the reply.
Ha ! we
will,therefore,begin again,'quoth Pansa, in
'

thick

tones,

his empty

holding up

his

goblet for

slave

to

refill.

They

all

Apiciuswith
have

could

led

their host.

prideand

'It

has

pleasureto

the

exhibit such

to

me

bent

their eyes

the face of

on

interest.

renewed

but
Nothing, dear friends,

'

been
see

Apicius,
you
said
this day,'
Martialis
'

then

laughed,and

Dear

my

my
have

sorrowful

most

conduct

greatest ambition

thoughts

you,'said

toward
"

ever

my

friends
ever

happy around my table.'

succeeded,and not the least

gently.
of approvalran round the couches.
A murmur
do me
You
honour,'resumed
Apicius; you have been
good friends and companions hitherto,and I have done,
I will not
numbly, my best to return your love. Be patient,
detain you long ; and especially
as you will never
againrecline
round this table at my request. I am
continued
grievedto say it,'
the expressions
of startled surprise
to
he, after allowing
resolved to change my condition,
and Rome
pass, but I am
'

'

'

will know

me

more.'

no

Ill-concealed
the

joy lightedup the vulgarface of Zoilus,but

visagesof Torquatus,Flaccus,and Pansa were blank and

thunderstruck

'Say

at this

not

so,

worn,

unlooked-for

announcement.

Apicius!'quoth Martialis,turninghis

but noble

face toward

his host, you

'

rend

maturely
preour

hearts.'

Apicius,with

fond

look, laid his hand gently on the

speaker'sshoulder,but did not speak.
This is rank treason
that cannot
said Sejanus jestpass,'
ingly.
a

'

'

not

even

Rome
leave

who
torians,

spare thee, noble

house
I shall send

cannot

thy

shall block

"

thee in.'

Apicius thou
a
guard of my
"

shalt
Pre-

NEMRA

42

faint smile rested

shall

'We

'Send

lipsof Apiciusat this conceit.

that plan will act, Prefect,'said he.
be
whole
cohort
a
only you must

thy Pretorians

the

on

how

see

I.

PART

"

"

quick.'
Torquatus

sat dumb

listened for what

'

the

about
It is true, my friends,
I am
bustle,the virtues and vices of our

hills. I

am

will seek you out

the voice of Martialis next to him.
'

Thou

We

shalt learn

"

quit the pleasures,

beloved

far
perfectserenity,
shortlyto see it.'

crowd, and I go
'Whither?

to

for

eager

the remainder

follow.

to

was

forgot his jibes;

and

from

cityof the
the struggling

I, at least,'
interrupted

long,my Caius. Which among

wish for the
you does not, at certain times,if not constantly,
music
is the whisper of the
whose
of the rustic,
tranquillity
ere

very

of the stream, and the notes

of the birds ?
rippling
cheerfully.Contented
Eatingsimply,sleepingsoundly,rising

groves, the
with what

air,the
a

heart
see

him
his

the

gods

given him

"

the

sun, the pure

summer

and the vine-clad slope;

water
green pastures, sweet
unvexed
When
by ambitions,envyings,ingratitudes.

him

wander, wonderingly,through the streets, I envy

his brown
cheek, his clear skin,his cheerful simplicity,

vigorousbody

He

have

to breathe

seems

grass.

which

the odour

sick at

am

cleaves the torrent

of the

of

pallidcitizens.

quietgroves

and

dewy

weary, friends. I loathe the

cityof the hills the marble, the

heart

and

loved
once
my
That
Peace !
stone, the throngingpeople. Peace !
song
of Horace
haunts me.
Hear
it,althoughyou know it well
in a littledegree.' He
it will help you to divine my spirit

sight of

"

"

then

recited

his second

the

beautiful

book, of which

song of Horace, the sixteenth of

offer the followingtranslation,
we

it is :

inadequateas

"

'

Whosoever

Upon

tempest-tossed

the wide

Aegean waters,

Prays the gods for peace

When
darklingthe moon
Amid
And

To
'

the

rest,

is hid

murky clouds,

guidingstars

shine not

cheer the sailor's breast.

War-torn
And

and

Peace

Thrace

cries Peace

! the quiveredMedian

bold

ANCIENT

OF

TALE

in.

CHAP.

ROME

43

But, Grosphus,it is neither bought

With

purple,gems,

consul's nod,
a mind

Nor

the lictor of

Can

drive the troubles of

Nor

flout the

About
"

gold.

nor

neither riches

For

which

cares

aloof,

flit

gildedroof.

him

With

little

lives with

who

Life goes well ;

father's cup

Whose

brightupon a simpleboard
slumbers light

Shines
Whose
Are

'

strain ourselves to

In this short life of

fain would

He
'

for lands

fate is such

himself?

shun

climbs up the brazened

swifter than the stag,
wind which sweeps
eastern

Grim, cankeringcare
And

Or
The

'

homes

suns

whose

man

much

ours

other

banished

What

gain so

childhood's

Why change our

That glow with

fright.

hoard.

tells of hidden

Why

sudden

by fear,nor

harmed

never

Which

and

storms

rain,
rattling

It leaveth not

the bands

Trooping o'er

the

Be

happy

of horsemen

for the

plain.
day,

hate to think

And

ships,

what

on

may

follow 1

Tempering all bitterness

With
For

As
1

an
no

knows

happinessthere

no

Swift death
Hath

laugh ;

easy

such

off

bore

shrunk

Achilles,and old

Tithonus

which

age

"

Time, mayhap, will giveto

That

is

sorrow.

me

it denies to thee.'

foreignrenderingcan give only a faint idea of

which
Apicius produced upon his hearers,by

This
effect

the
the

in
beauty of his elocution,
in

tears

his native tongue ; for it was

given
The
hot
voice of singular,
melancholy.
burning
pathetic
from
dropped silently

Then,
toward

for

the

brief moment,

his friend.

All that

down-turned
he

was

face of Martialis.

raised his

purest and

swimming
noblest

eyes
in his

NEMRA

44

load

The

face.

voices of the others

arguments, and
Think

raised in entreaties and

were

Torquatus summoned
firm,and only shook his

even

Apicius was

head.

not

many
be absent, I would
I

amongst you.

have

not

my

memory
ask each

have, therefore,to

slightmemorial

may, at various
recall somethingof Apicius and his days.'
a

'

once

But

tell

you

which

where

not

us

altogetherdie
of you

to

times, as

go,'murmured

you

accept

hope,

Martialis

more.
'

on

snarlingjoke.

that I go heedlessly,'
said he ; 'we have passed
hours together. Although I shall henceforth
delightful

'

of

struggledwith those wellingdrops,from beneath the

of a careless,misguided life,and
beautified his weary

nature

But

PART

Patience,Caius

an
easy road.'
Martialis made

you

"

; it is within easy

shall know

reach,

and Apicrusgave
gesture of pleasure,

sideboard
On
stood a row
of nine
a
sign to his butler.
entirely
draped and hidden by
objectsof nearlyequal height,

gold-fringednapkins thrown

white
curious

unusual, and

and

the inward

of
curiosity

them.

They were
times, already,excited

over

had, many

the company.

took the first.

carefully
he placed it before Martialis,
the
At a nod from his master
on
table,with the snowy white napkin still hiding whatever was
The
beneath.
next was
placed before Sejanus. The others
before Charinus,Flaccus,Torquatus,Pansa, Afer, and Zoilus
left
in rotation.
One was
Apiciuspointed to his own place.
before him, and the table was
The slave put it down
ranged
white-robed objects.
round with these mysterious
Friends,'said Apiciuscalmly, beneath those covers
you
The

slave advanced

these

to

and

'

will find the

fellowship. I

presents which
have

suitable and

them

striven
useful

to

give to

you
best of my

to the

their

in token
to
ability

Look

owners.

of

our

render

at them

and

accept of them, I pray.'

They all,with

more

or

less eagerness,

lifted the

napkins

and sat gazingthereat,

at Apicius,
and
gifts
of ill-suppressed
each other with mingled expressions
anger,
and disappointment.The napkin before Apicius
mortification,
from

was

which

their allotted

still untouched, and

were

shot towards

he

him,

received
with

the

rancorous

calm, scornful

glances

expression.

OH

Sejanus

Before

fasces,a miniature
addition
used

was

his
as

lictor's

in
up in a bundle of twigs; but
iron hook, such as
of an
the model

bound

axe

the

to

drag the bodies

was

axe

45

of a
representation

small

to

of traitors and

down

malefactors

steps into the Tiber.

the Gemonian
The

was

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

TALE

A !". in.

conspiratorflushed,and from
he flashed a look as dangerous

beneath

of the

cheek

gatheringbrows

and

dark

thundercloud.

a
'

Be

not

friend who

offended, Prefect,'said Apicius; I act as a

who
fears not the truth,and
not as a parasite,

nothingbut what may

His cold, mocking tone
Zoilus, with
finished,
jumped from his seat

face

and

pleasantto

prove

belied his

true

stows
be-

the ear.'

words, and,

ere

he

rage and fury,had

the article he had uncovered

purple with

dashed

figure of a negro, carved in

barely draped in a ludicrous
ebony, having its nakedness
fashion with a littlecloak of figuredsilk.
with the image
What
!' cried Apiciusjibingly
; displeased
?
of your grandfather
But Zoilus,speechlessand
shudderingwith his boiling
with his slaves.
the room
He
rushed
from
was
feelings,
which the bitingsatire of the proceeding
followed by a titter,

to

the

floor.

It

was

small

'

'

'

even

wrung

from

the offended

natures

of the others.

Torquatus sat scowlingbefore a small stand, on which was

wooden
platterhaving a copper coin in the
placed a common
Pansa
evinced his disgustof a similar stand bearing
centre.
a diminutive
cup of silver. The figureof a very ancient goat
its horns,
its hind legs,having a garland of roses
around
on
caused Flaccus to fume
and fret immoderately. Afer smiled
scornfullyupon a miniature gilded weather-vane ; whilst a
mirror, upheld by an Apollo, with an averted face, was
garded
reby Charinus with ineffable disdain.
Thus
casket

had
was

Apiciusamused
deemed

his invention.

sufficient for

in its outward

appearance

Martialis.
; but

small bronze

It

was

unpretentious
fast-locked box ever

provokes curiosity.
Lift it,Martialis ! snapped Torquatus derisively,
and see
whether it be filled with iron, or chaff,or what is lighter
still
emptiness.'
is the key, my
There
Caius,'said Apicius,in answer.
'

"

'

'

'

NE^ZRA

46

'

Before

his breast and

article from

drawingthe

leave the

you

them,

appearances,

'

it at present, sad
you shall use
of the pleasureof seeingwhat
one
"

grievethat my
have pleasedyou.

to add

least I have

Had

ever

I been

have

not, by

less truthful and

overwhelmed

it thus.

found

eyes

with

me

There

is little

Caius,giveme thy hand.'

The hand was
extended
and grasped fervently
by Apicius,
A richly
chased gold
who then lifted the napkin before him.
with jewels,was
exposed,gorgeous and glowing,
cup, studded
to the expectant gaze of all. The
eyes of Torquatus,Flaccus,
and Pansa kindled.
Sejanus stillsat motionless,with a cloud
more

save

his

on
resting

farewell

tributes should
trifling

would

liberal,
probablyyou

gratitude.At

I.

his friend.

depriveany
contains.
he added, turninghis
Dear
friends,'

the box

more

handing it to

house

must
necessity

upon

PART

pale,immobile

Martialis showed

The

face.

sad

change.
father's cup,' continued

broodingeyes

of

no

is my

That

'

"

'

Apicius;

Martialis,

rich for my future needs

wilt preserve
it it is too
of
simplicity.I will drink to the future welfare of you all. May
the gods send
plentiful
pastures of liberal purses and
you
thou

"

groaning tables
uncovetous

scornful
of

men.

spent of my

With

make
the

'

adjective,I

the

help and

your

have

the

help

thousand
patrimonysixty-four
of sensation

movement

this calm
'

may

emphasis of

fortyyears.
A

ye die the death of noble, virtuous,

he said,with a bitterly
Listen,dear friends,'

; and

of such

statement

In the process

passed

and how
friends,
of gold alone.
glitter

the

couches

at

extravagance.

enormous

true

age
of others I have

sestertia.'l

round

discovered how

I have

lived to the

idle it is
I have

to

met

rarelythe

immortals
with

try and gainthem

with

but

one

in my

Caius,true friend,may
He raised the goblet
the gods repay you, for Apiciuscannot.'
in his hand; it was
Looking round
partlyfilled with wine.
the company,
while he poised the flashingcup, he said :
I have had my
Vultures, I have done.
pleasure I have
that
spent my patrimony what is left I giveto thee, Caius
casket will vouch for it. I want
it not ; it is not worth living
who

career

has followed

me

for love

"

'

"

"

"

on

for.

Vale!'

He

emptied
1

the cup

About

at

^500,000,or

draught,threw
half

it from

million of money.

him

on

to

position
his

body

and

back

limbs

filled

was

with

with

with

here

nothing

but

His

depart.
will

out

of

get

one

Pansa,

necks

of

with

left,

amid

and

will

the

and

round

mainder,
re-

dead

the

voice,

low

can

we

signal

the

him

to

do

'

given

has

attend

the

to

slaves

"

themselves.'

and

following

Afer,

he

has

his

lost

imperial

the

fortune

minister

dies

and

slaves,
keen
to

to

go

domestics

gold

sobbing

and

alone,

glitter
over

the

of

the
dead

his

on

carried
and

an

business

unruffled

them
chamber

body

of

Tor-

opportunity.
the

huddled
away,

the

on

him.

over

remained

waved

haughty,

fright, leaning

nearly

strange

Martialis

room.

and

movables

any

this

frightened

of

the

for

blow

wine

indeed,

who,
eye

indifference

of

with

Charinus,

away.

with

stupefied

the

melted

sublimity

and

departed

of

encircled

"

fast

his

group

corner

confusion.

live.'

face.

they

fell

"

step,

quatus,

in

Apicius

house

muttered

company

measured

he

and

up

gathered

Afer

to

friend

the

to

'

and

physician,

guests,

time.

true

room,

and

The

the

waste

see

fool,'
the

His

and

agony,

sprang

for

away

Sejanus

only

probably
'The

So

said

!'

grimace.

looks.

startled

'Come

suspicion,

sped

Slaves

together
Apicius

of

on

lividness.

consternation

with

horrible

friend.

twist

smile

the

horrible

ghastly

former

corpse.

room

Martialis,

to

his

to

them,

into

contorted

spasmodic

gave

back

reached

changed

face

breathless

The

his

his

he

47

sink

to

Ere

suddenly
of

ROME

proceeded

cushions.

became

pallor

ANCIENT

OF

then

the

on

lip

The

and

table,

the

TALE

in.

CHAP.

and

of

death,

his

friend.

city.
in
he

one

was

ing
bend-

CHAPTER

THE

of

entrance

his

of

stupor
assumed
I

am

him

dead
more

to

sank

life

the

from

man

young
He

his

to

rose

ing
bringthe

first

feet

and

the

his

chin

for

the

had

which

at

pace
made

the

breast.

practised

eye
and

suddenly

had

toward

the

needed

It

of

what
some-

slave

gesture

his

on

been

breathing

new-comer,

Martialis

moment

that

see

reason

and

than

said
of

thither.

man

the

domestics,

calmness.

heavily, by
hurried

household

feelings.

physician,'

the

roused

shocked

stoical

'

of

one

physician,

IV.

the

no

mediciner

utterly

snatched

away.
'

do

can

fall.

Out

'

which

of

Following
and

went

its

side,

it.

He

his

two
'

'

most

might

do

you
'

want

am

Vicus

you

which

goblet,

the

remained

Apicius

the

had

on

thrown

There

dregs.
of

man

he

head,

man's

young

sniffed

wine, yet

in

the

science

was

shrugged

than

try

to

the

for

enough

cup

sir,'said

noble
worse

forbid

gods
did

death

of

he.
prove

your

words,'

remarked

and

again

should

could

not

save

to

what

place

am

to

send

if

should

?'

be

Charicles,
Tuscus.'

himself

Aesculapius

!'

whom

To

you
'

the

table, where

it and

to

of

the

?'

bitterly.

The
if

of

of

jewelled

remains

still

three,

Martialis

edge
nose

drink

Apicius

of

significantly.

There

or

the

that

shoulders
'

his

but

odour

no

the

near

he

motion

up

hand

he, letting the

did

cup

slight

picked

put

said

nothing,'

ever

and

grateful
may

be

for

your

found

notice,
without

noble

Martialis.

difficulty

in

the

CHAP.

TALE

iv.

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

49

with much
humilityand
nodded, and Charicles,
of sympathy, withdrew.
expression
he muttered, as he passedquickly
'Twas for himself then,'
O precious
drug,swift and sure
through the deserted hall.
!'
fail or disgrace
did you ever
when
me
as light,
Martialis
'

'

eye of Martialis fell on the casket which Apiciushad

it for a few moments,
bequeathedhim. He stood regarding
The

then

and

turned

to

remained, and said,with

slave who

newed
re-

vigour of faculties, Let the kinsfolk of Apicius be

brought hither at once, if not already sent for Plautia,his
sister,Sabellus,his uncle; and go you, yourself,
bring with
you back, in all haste,Festus the lawyer,from nigh the forum
'

"

of Caesar
The
stood

haste !'

"

alone.
He
disappearedand left him once more
gazed on the face of the dead, and his griefbroke

slave

and

beyond

his control.

his eyes

and
'

Oh

blind with hot

were

Apicius,'he groaned,

world, hadst thou

?

indeed

gods

is

This
"

from

thy retreat
not

if thou

deem

the

forsaken

thy

void would

friend

be

Easy
they list,

pered
as I whiswhisper,
Gone
gone, Apicius!

"

"

another

by

it when

can

selfish

"

filled

lips,

weary of the
love and companionship

reach

may

praised! For in whose ear

in thine,
all that oppressedme
hast

his

wert

found
easily

so

be

Thou

our

men

All

err.

from

pouringtears.
'

littleregardfor

so

didst

thou

sobs broke

Half-smothered

Did

selfish !
of

your

you
blood?

'

Oh, miserable thought!

He
lay stretched on
but,
more

as

the

composed.

leap to his feet.

thrust back,and a
apartment.
had

received,it
Her

leaden
The

sound

The

next

young,
Despitethe
gave

stature

figurelarge and

was

murmuring

couch

minutes
of

in broken

lagged on,
voice without

he

tences,
sen-

became

made

him

instant the

heavy curtains were

female stepped into the
richly-attired

crushingblow
bound

at

the

the heart of Martialis

entrance

the feminine

above

voluptuous,but

of the

comer.
new-

standard,and her

perfect in symmetry

and

Whilst givingthe impression

of robustness and vigour,
grace.
its stately
carriage
admirablymatched the brilliant and haughty

beauty of her face. The gaze of Martialis was riveted on her.

the look, she swept up to the
Scarcelydeigningto return
suicide and bent over
him.
Drawing herself up again she
E

NE^JRA

So

her

PART

i.

the disordered table with its

glance over the room,
litter of plate and luscious fruits,
fallen cups and
crumpled
in a jumble of confusion under the light
napkins,all glittering
of the huge candelabra.
Thence
her brilliant black eyes
him who stood by, with infatuation and
flashed upon
misery

cast

written

"

his face.

on

what led him

'Speak, Martialis,
I know
no
Plautia,but
more,
'

here

but

now,' answered

could

move

'

said before

"

so

he drank

and

She

looked

round

"

died,ere

'

echoed

she.

again

so,'he rejoined.

Even

The

farewell

guests were
put. Her
'

What

the

on

the dead

table where

host

his

to

they had

been

explained their

presence, and, being particularly

satisfied until she had learnt to whom

not

was

article had

bronze

giftsof

eyes rested on them in curiosity.

these ?' she demanded
are
again.

she
interested,
'And

eccentric

and

remaining

yet

Martialis

each

one

upon
and

the extravagance which glowed in every part of the room,

her red lipscurled in scornful incredulity.
'

all

us

speak.'

or

Poverty !

he

sweeping his hand

man,
young
tired of life he had spent his patrimony

the table ; he was

him
poverty haunted

"

what

the

'

toward

do this?'

to

been
he

that

appropriated.
you?' said she, pointing to

to

gave

the

casket.

did,' repliedMartialis.

'

He

'

Know

'

can

it contains ?'

what

you

only guess.'

'Well?'
'

With

his last breath

of his effects.

The

he

bequeathed

to me

box, doubtless,contains

relatingthereto,'said

the

in

man,

young

all that remains

the

documents

voice

trembling

with emotion.
'

Doubtless

remarked

the

nothing.

What

not

much

"

'

lady ;

of

with love and

your

give it a
eyes.

He

hundred
was

times

your

between

common

said

us

was

good-humour.'

there
to

over

brother

companion,'

doubtless, he
sister,

in

was

'Alas, Plautia,take what

would

his

me,

little there

tempered

friend and

his nearest

were

you

"

is!

gain one
born

it

want

kind

of the

same

not

"

look from
mother

CHAP.

he

to me

"

heart to

your

him

loved

soften
dislikes,

most?'

his pleadingtone
she, disregarding
of

lies before

he

of likes and

as

said
night,'
the whining

this

before

his intention

knew

51

There

brother.

body, bereft

who

me

Martialis,
you

'

than

his dead

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

more

was

Cannot

us.

TALE

iv.

she would

dog.

No, before Heaven

'

strange, and

"Tis
heard

never

this

seen

dark

This, at least,was
from

he drank

secretless

two

you

I have

friends,as

say.'

you

yon

Plautia took

to

as

with

else,until

one

he lies.'

Charicles

the table where

natural

to

every
fell back where

me,

fatal cup and

up the cup from

placed it,and,

had

had

we

night.'

bitter

'

maybe

or

"

smelled
curiosity,

it,as

at

done.

he had

ejaculated Martialis,as the golden rim

is yet sufficient left
seemed
to
graze her ripe lips. 'There
the physicianhas said
beware
than one
so
to harm
more
lest a drop smear
thy lip.'
tired of life,'
she replied
not
so
Tush, Martialis ! I am
contemptuously,settingdown the goblet; 'who comes?'
Festus,the lawyer,or thy uncle, Sabellus.'
care!'

'Take

"

"

'

"

'

'Festus?'

pointed to

He

the

box, and,

the

at

time, an

same

old

man

made
He
a
entered,wrinkled, grave, and thin.
profound
looked
from
the
and
then
other.
to
one
obeisance,
inquiringly
Martialis summoned
thee, he hath need of thee,Festus,'
Plautia haughtily; and, passing to the door, she
exclaimed
'

the domestics.

summoned
'

It is true

is

'This

crowded
dead

I sent
a

woeful

in,and,

master

and

under
bore

only this very morn

forum of Caesar, as

thee,'said
said
sight,'

for

Martialis
the

the directions

of

briefly.

lawyer,as the slaves

the lady,lifted their

him

room.
away to his own
that I saw
him and spoke with him

well

and

content

as

ever

'

It

was

in the

he was,

to

all

seeming.'
Martialis took the

key

of the casket

and

placed

it in the

hand.
lawyer's

'Open
friend.'

the

box

"

it

was

the

giftof Apicius

to

me,

his

NE^ERA

52

PART

i.

ing
of the couches,stretchon
one
Plautia took up her position
form on the place and cushions which had
her magnificent

occupiedby Sejanus the

before been

The

Prefect.

long,loose,

itself
female clung and moulded
flowingdrapery of the Roman
of her figure. Gems
and trinkets of
to the voluptuouscurves
amid
the wreathed
and
of her
plaitedmasses
gold glittered
the
bluish -black hair,and numberless
jewels flashed upon
Her
features were
slightly
fingersof her daintywhite hands.
and her ivory-like
but perfectand delicate in outline,
aquiline,
and glowingwith the tints of a ripe peach.
skin was
warm
With

the
reclined,

she

as

black orbs she looked

bold, imperious,

her

most

apt and

like

queen
brilliantcentrepiece
of that

splendour.
The
grave, elderlyFestus, as he opened the casket,cast
Martialis buried his
at her a glance filled with admiration.
his hungry eyes to rest
face in his hands,as if fearful of allowing
apartment of gorgeous

her, except

upon

for

when
intervals,

at

in hand

the matter

called

remark.

some

the

When

lawyer opened

the

casket

he

therein

found

After glancingat each in turn, he took one

several papers.
'
ing
bequeathup and said, This is the will of M. Gabius Apicius,

knight,his
solelyto Caius JuliusMartialis,

his property
friend.'

!' said that

'Read
Festus

obeyed.
The

minutes.

many

in
personage
brief and
task was

unhappy
The

remaining papers

inventories of effects.
also.

They

value

in the

before it was
to

were

Martialis

bade

hollow

did

tone.

not

found
him

occupy
formal
to be in-

read them

of
they did,everything
Plautia signified
house.
her impatience long
ended, and, during its progress, a slave entered

were

that

announce

as
long ; including,

Sabellus

of

the

Aventine

was

not

to

be

found.
When

the

wearisome

of the

monotone

lawyer at length

ceased, Martialis raised his pale face from his hands.

'Ah!'

value of the
a

few minor

ten

lawyer suddenly; 'here I find the

whole computed.
Deducting the debts due, and
to an
estimate of
bequests,the balance amounts

exclaimed

thousand

the

sestertia.'l

Plautia started

on

her cushions
1

at

the statement

Nearly ,"90,000.

CHAP.

TALE

IV.

!' she

'What

OF

ANCIENT

ROME

53

fine black brows;

contractingher

demanded,

free?'
sestertia,
the will expressly
as
states,'repliedFestus.
Absolutely,
The whole total reaches a huger sum, but there are debts,as
is spoken of
before mentioned.
No money
these inventories
thousand

'ten

'

'

"

be realised.'

must
'

"

this the poverty he fled from ?

heaven to the greater part of mankind
but

'Ay,

not

mind

the

to

of

voice of Martialis ; for remember

within his coffers. Everythinggone
'

house
as

home

he

the noblest in Rome

"

remnant

of kin

to

"

the

but what

it

was

needs

must

the walls of the

necessary to live
have despoiledhis

of its treasures.

"

Rather

of

note

love of

friend

has

great

or

as

his nearest
claim

but

it up

I render

given me.

than

he did.

as

"

fortune

1 she exclaimed.

disgraceand ruin,he did

it is too plain. But small
fear
thou art
to thee,Plautia,
seem
may
it belongs. I have no
thee,therefore,

to all,the
strike,
It was
pride,not

what

that

do

To

"

'

the
Apicius,'
interrupted
coined
scarce
a
piece

Apicius lived

Had

compass.

hitherto.

the

Why, it is

Was

"

take it therefore.'
noble

'A

deed

!'

quoth

Festus.

The

and she held out

glance of Plautia softened a little,
her jewelled,white hand
With
to the
man.
young
eyes
aflame he seized it,and covered it with kisses.
It is trulyhigh-minded and generous
of thee, Martialis,'
'

she said.
'Take

it

Foolish

'

I need

"

!'she

her words

rejoined,
drawing her
with

thee to be wiser than

'

the

rob

Festus
more

no

The

voice

heart to

his part and

!' said Martialis.

has done

lawyer rose

at

this

eagerly.

hand

mocking smile.
thyself.'

questionfor his own

the papers in
lawyer,replacing
'

say

It is

it not !' he answered

away
'

Bid

and

panying
accom-

Festus

teach

decide,'remarked

the box.
I will

hint,and

keep

him

at the same

longer
"

moment

doorway. Looking thither they beheld

a tall cloaked
figurestandingin the doorway, regardingthem
and their surroundingswith keen eyes.
came

from

the

no

Martialis started.
'

Even

so,

'

Lucius !' he exclaimed.

brother,'returned

the

new-comer.

NEALRA

54

It
travel

Centurion,bearing the stains

garments and a jaded air on his face.

indeed

was

his

on

Plautia

PART

the

her feet.

to

rose

cheeks

Her

i.

of hard

suffused with

were

stirred her tunic

crimson,and her bosom
with deeper and more
rapid pulsations.A delicious tremor
seemed
to melt her natural stateliness of carriage. Her
eyes,
full of haughtiness
and will,
so
encounteringthe calm gaze of
shaded
beneath a deep
the Pretorian,
sank- like a timid child's,
sweeping fringeof eyelashes.
A deadly sickness crept about the heart of Caius Martialis,
for his senses, preternaturally
sharpened,saw all.
?' he demanded, scarcely
Do you seek me
able,or caring,

flood

sudden

of

'

the bitterness of his tones.

to conceal

dropped his cloak from his shoulder and

time, Festus, the lawyer,
stepped forward,whilst,at the same
glidedfrom the room.
The

Centurion

The

resemblance

the mould

were

of their features.

determination

spiritand

bronzed

face and

fearless

of the

countenance

brothers

the

scarcelyso finelycarved
more
manly
considerably

were

of

between

in

But, whilst those of the soldier

his elder brother's,
as were
they
decided.

and

which
The

The

expression

characteristic of

his

on
perceptible
vigourand robustness

the

was

glance,were

civilian.

traceable

was

less

of

the

eminently fitted him to press forward in the

younger
battle and strife of the world; whilst the characteristics of
the

elder

the

calmer

were

of

more

delicate

which
organisation,

seeks

atmosphere and placid occupationsof retirement

and study. The personalappearance
of the Centurion, which
has alreadybeen alluded to, spoke for his habits.
His commanding
strengthand perfection
stature, rude health and
of physicaltrainingwere
all at the service of the readiness
and

resource

of mind

which

seemed

to

lie charactered

in the

glancesof his eyes. On the other hand, the person of Caius

gence,
was
medium-sized, and the signs of habitual ease, indulluxury and pleasure,were
only too plainlystamped
his face, to the deep injuryof its native nobleness and
on

delicacy.
'

'

Do

No

directed

"

you
I
to

seek me?'

said the latter.

seek

Prefect.

Not

here.

porter in the lodge to tell

the

follow him

No

at

the

camp,

was

CHAP.

me

intruded

found

grieved,but

am

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

visible.

slave

no

"

TALE

TV.

light here

paid

you

55

if I

"

attention

no

have

to

my

knock.'
time ago
a long time.'
Sejanus has left some
'Whither,then, Caius,do you know?'
'

"

'No

nor

"

care

uncourteous
'

I !' was

not

the careless and

in Plautia's voice ;
hitherto.

travelled far ?' broke

melodious
than
softer,and more
and I trust the Prefect will
I have, Plautia,
'

much

deeper,
lead

not

me

farther.'
'

Whence

in your

have

face.

You

must, then, have

fame,

as

fatigued I see it
distance
ridden a prodigious
are

"

reached

horseman, has

foolish

weary.

I may claim to feel somewhat

resting-place,
with your leave,I will drink a cup
too
thirsty

am

"

with infinite relish.'

toward

turned

sideboard

the

he

take

stood ; but, ere

could
him, and selectingone of the

Caius looked

hands.
'

me

As

change horses,

to

last brief

since my

He

me.

I have

but,as
things,

save
posted fifty
leagueswithout stopping,

of wine

even

tells me.'

very centaur, so rumour

idle and
Rumour
tells many
a

are

'

You

come

you

You

; for your

do

what
some-

answer.

have

You

faith

"

where

second

the

step, she

wine-flagons
glidedpast

vessels,raised it with her

gnawed his lip.

cried the Centurion
will be my own
cupbearer,'
too much
honour, lady.'
relieved

he

on

her

own

and

of the

pitcher,he

would

'

have

you
been

liant
not
her brilto have dwelt with admiration on
scarcelyhuman
She
beauty,which was unusuallyflushed and animated.
time,flashed a glowing
partedwith the jar,and, at the same
glanceupon him with her lustrous eyes.
round
He
turned
from those dangerous orbs to fillwith
the wine the nearest
of his brother

Lucius

filled. The
burst from
and
floor.

bumper

stood

as

The

wine

the table.

The

eyes
steel-like
hard,
white.

he raised to drink from

had

barelyreached

the throat of Plautia.

dashed

on

a
suddenlygleamed
turned, simultaneously,
deathly

face

half turned

which

with

Caius

his

glint,and

cup

the vessel

from

splashed them

the cup he had

his lipswhen
a scream

With

the cry she sprang forward

his hand on to the polished

both

and

the

gobletfell with

NEMRA

56
violence

such

alreadyplayed such
the beautiful

bosom
'

and

which

one

had

face crimsoned

gazed upon
paled,and whose

and

the

poisoned cup !' ejaculatedshe.

poisoned cup!' cried he, looking with increased

from
surprise
the

that

was

fell tumultuously.

the cup

was

'The

"

to the other.

one

terrible revulsion

It

fatal part that night.

astonishment
the Centurion

whose
girl,

heaved
It

dented.

i.

with

Transfixed

be

to

as

PABT

feelingswept through,and shook,

of

of the elder Martialis.

frame

At

the look of his brother

he gave a hysterical
gasp and dropped his head into his hands.
Plautia pointed to the fallen gobletwith an impressive

said, It has alreadytaken the lifeof

gesture,and

night.

'

Had

drunk

you

therefrom

cup yet reeks of the

that my
you not fillit,fortune be:praised
it ere your lipstouched
its horrid brim.'
'

the

How,

death

of

?'

man

this

man

you would have shared

fatal drug. Though I

That

fate.

one

poor

repeated

his
saw

perceived

eyes

bewildered

the

Centurion.
'

that very cup at the close of this night's

said she, waving her hand
the glittering
disorder
feast,"
over
Even

of the

From

so

table, 'Apicius,of his

will,drank

own

poisoned

'

draught.
soldier

The

young
shuddered.

and

horror-struck.

was

'Apicius poisoned himself!'

he

"

dreadful

tale

"

brother

'Your

turningaway,
Nay

fresh

"

more

sudden

"

he

Alas,I
it

I would

'

his

was

Flautia,

dreamt

not

spare you
what
had

strange that Apicius was

me,

Plautia.

'Tis

sudden

the

pened,
hapnot

and

'

gathered up his cloak,and, as he turned to

spurned the goblet with his foot,mutteringsome
of abhorrence

gods ?

burst of

"

He

he

present,'answered

was

terrible tale

pardon

farewell !

than

'

recital.

will

of the

name

is

feeling.
and with deep sympathy, I
hastily,
with my presence.
I will learn,in
a

yet I remarked

You

bitter blow

no

you

enough, the

and
here.

if to hide

! said Lucius

time

pain of

moreover,

better

around

'This

muttered.

in the

reason,

tell you

'

will trouble
sad

as

for what
can

and,
friend,

bosom

'

and

looked

He

and

disgust.

the

door,

sions
expres-

TALE

iv.

CHAP.

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

57

said Plautia,go not without quenching

Stay,Centurion,'
lucky enough to rob you of your first
your thirst. If I was
draught,here is wine enough,and of the purest.'
'

'

While

spoke,she quicklyfilledanother drinkingvessel

she

with wine and

for it.

merelyout
'

You

'

It

was.

Had

or

drank

He

to have

seems

indebted

therefore.
life,

able
answer-

as

herself

as
briefly

thirsty.'

were

left me.'

before,you
you drunk
all thirst on earth.'

am

I will be

of courtesy.

said you

beyond
'

"

two

'

it,

I will be your taster.'

three mouthfuls and offered

fear

remainder.

ample

the

'

without

drank
accordingly

She
him

Drink

with

forward

See,'she said,coming

'

and

water.

would

have

been, now,

your keen eye and prompt arm

I trust chance
may enable me, some

far

for my

to

day, to

repay the debt.'

'Tush, Centurion,you
Achilles,
acknowledgingto
The

young

not

was

'

very

are

the hand

bowed

man

of

weak

the

Pretorian

!'
girl

coldly,for the styleof the speech

his mind.

agreeableto

Farewell,Plautia.

jesting. You,

I trust

in your affliction. Do

you

fort
speedilyfind commay
brother ?
My way lies
come,

you

with yours for a space.'

Caius shook his head.
'

hath

Nay
left
as

Plautia, he
'

remain,where my brother
turion,
him, in charge. But I will beg your escort, Cenfar as you will give it,through the streets ; for I

hither in haste,with

came
'

than

That
to

'

an

!' said

To

'It

follower.'

shall be my

of supreme
be as
must

Centurion

haughtiness.
Caius

quickly.

delivered without

'

back

me

the

to the camp,

inconvenient

risk your

observed
says, nevertheless,'
I have that about me
which must

further

already. Forgiveme
prove

scarce

task,Plautia. It belongsto me rather

him,'interposed
Caius,starting
up fiercely.
whomsoever
I choose
to give it,'
said the lady,with

accent

take

must

delay,and

I have

dallied

too

the
be

long

discourtesy,
lady,for my duty must
in such direction and haste as would

It is unavoidable,
and I must
you.
in deference to my business.
Farewell 1'
displeasure
to

NESERA

58

Bowing

toward

the

and

her, the Pretorian

Plautia

house.
when

hand; and,

I"AKT

turned

abruptlyleft the apartment

lip and clenched her

bit her

voice of Caius

the

i.

uttered

remark,

some

him.

shot a
suddenly
fiercelyupon
basilisk glance upon him and pointed,without a word, to the
jewelled cup on the floor. His cheek paled and his eyes
fell before the incisive eloquence of her
wavered, and finally
she

look and
He

She

gesture.

her,but an imperious
rooted him
to his place in confusion.
more
was
once
left,
gone, and he was
of remorse,
the tortures
jealousy,and
togetheron the cold background of his

essayedto speak and

of her hand

wave

The

and

instant

next

she

alone, to wrestle with

which
despair,

writhed

move

toward

grief.
His

his tirelesssteps toward

turned
or

barracks,which

accommodate
the

the gloomy house

quitting,

brother, on

the household

city,
beyond

the

formed

permanent

by

troops, on

slope of

Apicius,

fortifiedcamp,

the present emperor

to
the north-east edge of

the Viminal

and

and
Esquiline

the
across
straight
laytolerably
city,under the Carinae, partlythrough the Subura,and finally
along the Vicus Patricius,which followed the valleybetween
the Esquilineand Viminal
in front of
hills. Then, directly
him, rose the ramparts and walls which harboured about ten
the wall of Servius.

'

been

had

the

of

thousand

horse

The

and

originof

road

His

foot.
these

celebrated

troops is said

formed
ScipioAfricanus,who, in the first instance,
of pickedmen
This cohort was
to guard his person.
from

all other

duty and

to rest
a

with

company

exempted

Their number

grantedlargerpay.
time to time,until the Emperor Augustus
was
in cohorts of a thousand
established them
men
each, horse
and foot,to protect his power
and person.
They were chosen
and we
have already
only from Italyand the old colonies,
hinted at their superior
ful
privileges,
pay, and equipment. Careto avoid
of despotism,
Augustus retained
any appearance
only a small portionof them in Rome, and scattered the rest
was

increased from

the neighbouring
It remained
for the fears or
towns.
among
craft of the Emperor, his successor,
from whom
our
young

Centurion
all into

one

now

bore

body

despatch in

his

breast,to assemble

within their strong, fortifiedcamp

in

them

Rome,

CHAP.

TALE

iv.

OF

ROME

ANCIENT

59

startingthem on their future path,in which they

fairly
in making and
rivalled the janissaries
of the eastern
emperors
unmaking the rulers of the empire.
the commander, and entering
Of these troops Sejanus was
the camp, the Centurion
proceeded to his quarters to find,to
thus

end.
that his search was
at an
satisfaction,
in a chair,with
thoughtfully
Sejanus was sitting
contracted and deep lines furrowinghis forehead.
'Ah, Martialis !' he cried eagerly,as his eyes
his

his brows

rested

on

you had returned.'

I followed you, Prefect, to the Palatine,'
repliedLucius.
the Palatine!
'To
Ah, then you must know what has

the form

of his officer ;

'

I heard

'

happened there. It
have a despatch?'
held out

He

his

will be all

over

hand, and

the Centurion

Rome

You

to-morrow.

placed a

sealed

letter therein.

Turning his
the

and

cover

back

read

the messenger,
the Prefect tore open
contents
by the soft lightof a silver

on

the

sure
lamp, which barelyilluminated the luxurious apartment. Pleahis face like the first
broke over
and delightstraightway
lightof dawn shootingathwart the dark earth. He perused
his countenance
he turned
the epistle
ere
twice,and smoothed

waitingCenturion.

to the
'

You

have

been

said,in
Capreae?'

Lucius,' he
leave

expeditiouscourier,as

an
a

brisk,elated

usual, my
did you

'When

tone.

of his journey.
particulars
returned
the
made
of iron, I verilybelieve,'
'Thou
art
loth to use thee again.
I am
after such fatigue
Prefect smilingly;
Martialis related the time

and

'

I work
and

hard ; but there is another

have none
perform it but whom

thee too

I would
'

am

ready.

answered
rest,'
'

What

gets ever
Then

What

fatigueI

service

imminent,

I could

feel will pass with

trust.'
a

night's

his officer.

should
the most

I do without
work

thee ?

; but this matter

before he told his officer the

It is the

willinghorse
is particular.'

nature

of the

service

of questions
he proceeded to put to him a number
required,
in relation to his experiences
he
during his mission. When
had exhausted
his ingenuity
concerningeverythinghe could
think of, pertaining
in the imperialhousehold, he
to matters

NEJERA

60

he

silent

into

relapsed
paced

down

and

up

reflection

'Centurion-!'
and
a

of

troop
in

there
him

readiness

to

mission,
to

of

hasten

an

to

ride
must

him.

report

and,
the

and
and

and

careful
when

you
to

same

me

will

Drusus

place

him
All

have

in
will
Leave

secret.

completed

without

take

arrive

Bring

him.

arrest

Palatine.

the

on

Be
;

night,

at

nightfall,

after

it

Capreae

leaves

Ostia.

to

stop

palace

night

which

during

delay.

charge
be

in
and

your
Now

bed!'
Martialis

in

the

Drusus

To-morrow,

guard,

receive

city by

the

enter

You

'

length,

at

and

under

keeper

the

said,

men

galley.

Rome,

to

of

twenty

minutes,

few

I.

room.

shortly.

Rome

to

comes

for

the

he

PART

few
easy

was

minutes

conscience,

not

loth

sleeping
and

to

the

bright

obey,

and,

profound
hopes.

seeking
slumber

his
of

room,

tired

was

limbs,

CHAPTER

house
of
the
FROM
awful
sudden
and

closeted
until
as

end

and

Sejanus

the

shortlybefore

meeting

the

spectacle

had

first gone

There

Afer.

in

by themselves, engaged

his

of

the

to

remained

they

conversation,
and his officer,

earnest

of the Prefect

described.
Previous

the inmost

this Afer

to

the

by

Cestus

haunts

ruffians

fluency

exceeded, their
into the
his

ear

in the

master

at

with

astute

with

object
the

the

of this satanic

heat

the

his

of
of

lowest

crew,

sure

type.

Greek,

cisms
aptness of his race, exchanged wittiand

gardens
and

Subura

of

women

which

smartness

intoxicated

leer,nodded

chorus

particular
spot,

and

Seizingan

own.

of the

to
message
youth threaded

discoveringthe
wine, and revellingin

Assailed by the obscene

with the readiness and
with

That

off

in

succeeded

amid

orgy,

quietlysent

foul intricacies of the

and

search, deluged with

brutal

had

Erotion.

Greek

confidence, and

to

Apicius

Domitius

of

abode

modest

V.

of
at

equalled, if

opportunity,he whispered

Cestus

Maecenas,

the instruction to
on

the

agreed, and

the young

meet

ing,
followingmorn-

hour.
particular

not

The

fellow,

slave departed

report the result of his errand.

The

gardens

of

Maecenas

Esquiline,nor

of the

the modern

sense

must

were

the

on

the

for,to suppose

side

gardens be accepted
that they were
ornamental

term

grounds,and duly kept in order by a staff

be misleading. They seemed
to be, and
in

north-eastern

of

servants, would

there

for the

in

were

many
recreation and

places
common
airings of the populace. These, to which Afer repaired to
keep his appointment with Cestus, had been formed
by the
such

Rome,

celebrated

open

patron

of

literature and

art, upon

ground

which,

NE^KA

62

hitherto,had

bad

held

orders of the
matter

PART

i.

of the lowest
repute, as the burial-place
It seems,

people.
for the

even,

bodies to be

to

have

thrown

been

down

no

common
un-

and

left

without

To clear this charnel

coveringof earth whatever.
of mouldering
change it from a horrid repository
bones and putrefying
flesh into a pleasantlounge for the people,
of the generous
works of Maecenas.
It lay outside,
was
one
and adjoining,
the ring wall of Servius,
and we
conclude
may
the placewas not altogether
denuded
of its sepulchral
memories,
since it was
here that Canidia,the witch of Horace, came
to
and invoke the shades of the dead
perform her incantations,

any
ground, and

amongst the tombs.

Though
need

of

this

purifyingmeasures,

memories, it did

without

particular
part
form

and

the wall

bore

the whole

the

had

the

most

infamous

most

of the

gardens.
They extended within the wall,for a certain distance along
the city. Near
this extremitywas
the hill,toward
situated
mansion
of Maecenas
the noble
himself,commanding a fine
prospect of the cityfrom its windows.
and at every step treadingon
Past this dwelling,
ground
the
famous
often
Roman
his
and
so
pressedby
poet
patron.
await
arrival
the
of Cestus.
Afer took his way to
He
passed
through the EsquilineGate of the huge rampart of Servius,
the outer
the
and entered
portion of the gardens. It was
somewhat
busy time of labour, and the morning itself was
that very few individuals were
and chilly,
to be seen
so
raw
the open
scattered here and there over
park. The few who
did

loiter about

well spare.
In the
to

not

of the

were

extent

class that honest

labour

could

largetract which had been devoted

still many
tombs
scattered
the burial of the dead, were

portionof

this

neglected,weatherdefaced
by the climbings,scramblings,
beaten, and stillmore
and mischievous
peltingsof children and youths. Among
of largersize and more
them was
pretentious
one
appearance
circular
in
It was
than any other.
shape, and constructed

up

and

down.

of massive

They

masonry,

were

which

and
inscription,
There
was
its superiorbulk.

It bore

the

no

grass-grown,

defied all attempts at

was
conspicuous for

nothing but
the people of

tradition among
the spot where
neighbourhood,that it marked
a

destruction.

an

erring

scion of
burial

noble

as

had

sunk

so

63

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

house

low

as

to

death

meet

the

malefactor,in days past when

common

and

place

dregs of pauperism
crime.
Though disowned by his outraged familyduring
tinguishab
the death of the reprobatearoused the inexdepravedlife,
of kinship. Family pride could not leave
feelings

and
his

this dishonoured

even

to his

due

raise

muteness

legend to
It

was

without

member

the

were

this

of

of attention

chisel

was

suffered
Darkness

arose.
,

disgrace,and

the

mysteriousaffirmation of
posterity.
prominent object the knight bent his

of the masonry
the minds of
to

fittest shrouds

mark

some

birth,if to nothing else ; but no

which
letter or figureon the tomb

oblivion

and

fate of the

for the wretched

reserved

was

to

TALE

v.

CHAP.

lent

the

way
With

morning air.
park-likegardens in the raw
backward
glancesin search of the yet invisible Cestus,
many
he finally
reached
the mysterious,moss-grown
pileof stones,
and after pacingup and down
the grass for some
time, with
fitfuland angry mutteringson the laggard's
account, he began
and went, with
to think of returning. Stray passengers
came
the bleak, empty track,but
a
solitary,
melancholy air,across
still no
form answering to the powerful frame of the Suburan
the

across

its appearance.

made

'The

drunken

fool has

either not

slept off his debauch

said Afer angrily
else not ended
to himself,
or
it,'
turninghis
A
the Esquiline Gate.
eyes for the twentieth time toward
to wait in the damp
fine thing if I am
grass for a vagabond ;
back
I'llgo
I shall meet
him on the way.'
: maybe
The expectationwas
realised. He
had only gone a very
his eyes were
short distance when
gladdened by the expected
figureof the Suburan, who came
hurriedly.Afer
up breathing
surveyed his bloodshot eyes and disordered dress, his uncombed
locks, and general hang-dog, not to say ferocious,
succeeded
by very brief
aspect, with which a nightof revelry,
'

slumbers, had
'

and
your
You

endowed

him.

!' said the

Good-morrow

knight,in reply to

apologies. I perceiveyou have succeeded

I see
it
ravenous
appetite,my Cestus
have also drunk wine to aid digestion,
which
'

interfered with your sleep.'

'
It is the danger of the ravenous

"

stomach

in

salutations

appeasing

in your
face.
has probably

that it overloads

NE"RA

64

grin and
'

i.

opportunity,'
repliedCestus, with

it gets the

itself when

PART

hiccough.

You

drunk

are

fellow ! '

good

yet, my

proceeded

the

knightcalmly.
sober enough to walk steadilyand
'Nay, patron, I am
the gods,
or
Besides,I found that the aediles,
keep a secret.
have caused the fountain of Orpheus to play again this morning
I passed it just now, I dipped my head
that,when
; so
fresh as a young
makes
me
as
into his clear basin,which
girl

meetingsunrise.'
Did you accept the renewed
that appearance.
flow of the fountain this morning as a favourable omen,
ing
revers'

have

You

'

that of
'

yesterday?
thought of

never

and

great haste

in too

was

it in

one

or

way

lest

concern

another,patron. I
I should
keep your

worship waiting.'
'

You

of your

carried

this

out

Cestus, with

Shrewd

which

we

'

here ?

may

ever, Cestus
both make

Patron, you

are

to serve

the deserted

mean

to

man

in

as

I to
before ?

Rome,

the greatest. Whenever

fields.

unfold
Am

promptness

the cleverest

you

pairs of ears,'said

two

fortunes.

our

and

at

Do

'

only

needs

credit.

remarkable

swift glance around

as

quityou

not

which

perfectfaith,
secrecy,

your

of

am

brought you

I have

Taking the circumstances

the opinion that you have

appointmentwith

'Something
'

considerate

into account, I

case

why

know

very

are

and

you

plan by
rely on
'

I would

call upon

instanter,knowing that the business

help you I come
instructive.
The
will be something clever and
pleasureof
the
as
weight with me
servingyou, therefore,has as much
to

me

pay

it has indeed.'

"

'The

fluency and

readiness

of your language will never

fruit of your residence with

a
you ; it is the admirable
service to you ; but
poet. It has alreadybeen of immense
for the present it will be sufficient for you to be brief and to
if you are
the point. I wish to know
prepared to carry out

leave

wishes,even
though they may
which, if discovered,would end

my

incur
most

desperateaction,
in the executioner's
certainly
some

axe?'
'

should

like

to

hear

more

particulars,
patron

"

v.

CHAP.

be

would

but, at the

time, I have

same

ROME

anything with

do

pleased to

ANCIENT

OF

JALE

65

fair show

desire to

no

be

of

safety;

bull-headed

fool.'

think, with ordinaryprecautions,there will be not

much
as
danger. The streets of the cityare, at night-time,
and
secret
a rule,dark
enough for a thrust or two, and an
easy departurebefore the watch decides to interfere.'
'

'

Oh, if that is all,I make no doubt but that

said Cestus,with a sinister smile
to terms,'

come

Is it desired

'

lips.

friend of my

some

of

to

me

noble

shall

we

his

on

by chance, or

meet

patron home

soon

bristly

to

escort

?'

Hades!'

'To

the Suburan, grinning.

Exactly,'rejoined
Concerning your reward, I shall requireyou to name
to trouble
no
me
lump sum, and to promise, thereafter,
'

'

more.'
'That
'

shall

knight,with
'

I know

'

What

sight of

lose

never

from

worship's
employ.'

your

you,

'

said

the

anxious

for

believe me,

cold smile.

your goodness has always been

welfare,'returned Cestus ironically.

my

most

figurewould you consider sufficientto reward you

the pangs of conscience,and the risks incurred,by ending
life of a respectable
member
of society
?
'The pay would vary accordingto the possibleamount
of
and cry raised by those belongingto the deceased,'said

for

'

the

hue

Cestus

cunningly.
so

Afer
'

To

much

what

'What!'
start from

he

had

hundred

tap

as

'

ordinarycitizen I would not

person of rank and importance.'

For

for

been

degree of

boldness

would

calmly.
almost yelledthe ruffian.
His
his head, and his breath came
in
plunged into ice-cold water.

sestertia !

senator,

sestertia

five hundred

he asked

Patron

consul

"

"

why

liberal ; I

desperateoffice

"

Sejanus

'Enough!' replied Afer.

terms

mand
de-

an

smiled.

inspireyou?'
to

me
dismissing

means

myself am sure
of harming any

"

'I

gasps, as
'Five hu

for that you

Caesar

if

as

though
five

"

might bid

me

himself.'

glad

am

of it.
one

eyes stared

you

consider

You

will not

of those

you

the
the

have

have

tioned.'
men-

NE"RA

66

'

the

much

So

better !

PAUT

Patron, you

the

are

i.

easiest of

masters.'
It is

'

secret

as

bargainthen

and
faithful,

prompt,

'

'

Have

'

failed ? '

ever

remember

cannot

before,and

your

so

common-sense

sestertia

hundred

have ; it is to your interest,

trustworthy. I have told you that
but perceive it. Five
cannot

that you

remain

mine, to

to

will be

you

"

be

picked up every day for the

lightlabour of a few hours, togetherwith the simple task of
shut concerning the matter.
You
are
keeping one's mouth
such a fool, I think,as to destroy a profitable
business
not
connection,Cestus.'
You
have no fear therefore.
speak trulyindeed,noble Afer
I am
and instructions
ready to receive your commands
not

are

to

'

"

for the business.'

first is

'The
the

from

'

I will

swear

'

Good

you.
tell them

no

You

than

that

them

pay

they are

certain

help

to

in

help

to

and

sum,

highway

are

tomed
accus-

work.'

that to

But

me.

exclusive

It shall be

by

and

fellows

doubt, find individuals who

no

can,

'Leave
'

wine-pot.'
by the aqueducts,patron.'
will require,
say, three stout

more

such

to

knight emphatically,'that
affair is satisfactorily
settled,

the

will select them

You

theft.

You

the

until the

firstmoment,

abstain from

you

this,'said

me,

my

their pay, patron?'

of your
shall be
and
own,

careful

Cestus.

They

need

charged
dis-

not

cost

much.'
'

Certainlynot

help me,
word, and

I have

I pay them so
they will not ask

Exactly! You
pleasureto arrange

job

in hand

much.

and

'

I need

"

I want
not

them

to

say another

question.'
comprehend me perfectly.It is a positive
details with an intelligent
person like yourself,
a

Cestus.'
'

is

You

are

flattering,
patron.

unfortunate

so
'

as

is this individual who

in your displeasure?'
pleasureto do business with you,

to stand

I repeat it is a
resumed
Afer calmly.

your

Who

'

Previous

task,I shall requireyou

to

to

act

the
a

actual

Cestus,'

execution

littlepart. I

of

shall

CHAP.

in

requireyou,
make

for

TALE

v.

fact,to clean

yourselfin

adorn

and

67
order

to

visit.'
'

Oh, oh ! murmured

'

You

be

to

are

short

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

time.

Cestus

decoy

duck

of the

will make

You

will
training
poetical

doubtfully.
very best plumage,
excellent one.
Your

an

in excellent stead.

stand

Indeed, there

but what the part will give a new

turn
to your
telling,
shall be seeing you
treadingthe stage some
genius. We
day.'
noble patron, instead of allowing
You are pleasedto jest,

is no

'

this part of the business is within my

power or not to carry out.'
'
Listen ! You
I have no anxietyon that point,Cestus.
to reflect whether

me

will have

represent

to
an

in order to
appearance,
your outward
in his holidayclothes
that is,
mechanic

improve
honest

"

as

nearlyas

will have

as

the

of

who

possible.That done, you

Janiculumand ask an audience

dwells

lost when
'

Ah,

He

there.

cried Cestus

once

You

rat !

going to

are

outdo

yourself,'

merely to go to
best language and

are

gentleman with a story,told in your

that you are
from a repentant man
a
style,
messenger
deathbed, who confesses that he formerlystole the

dying

was

eagerly.

this

The

far

patrician

granddaughterwho

understand, I perceive. You

'You

certain

as

go

child.'
I smell

now

had

to

is

man

most

anxious

for

an

on

child.

interview with

gentleman he has wronged, for the purpose

and
pardon and revealingthe whereabouts

of

his

the

imploringhis

positionof

the

who, he says, is yet living.When

girl,
you have succeeded
in arousingthe gentleman'sinterest and
as
eagerness,
you
he
will,

doubtless
not

be in

Rome,

He

hope, decide
be

must

give the

will almost
and

surelysend

shall be careful

to

you to me.
let him
know

recollect himself,and,
will,therefore,
to

timed

to

this

accompany
you
late at
to fall tolerably

affair all the

more

dying man.

as

I shall

hand.
beforewe

may

All this

night,which will also

of genuineness. On

appearance
the way to that dying man
be left by
my worthy uncle must
oblivious of missingchild and present
the roadside,for ever

grief.'
'

By

Pluto !' cried

the

Suburan, smiting his thigh in

68

NE"RA

yesterday. I marvel
then your worship is
what
a

it

and

No

'

you
so merciful.

bound

was

to

Fate

Fabricii could

thousand
'

only
very thing I advised
you
have
this before; but
done
not

cunning plan !

names

cut

slip.Euge, Cestus

you

!' said the

ears
'

It

the

and

great man,

knightsternly.

let it
my delightwhich
sestertia for simplyhelping

Elysian fields why, patron,

the pay is so
and
the task so
princely,
light,that I feel
somewhat
ashamed
of acceptingthe terms.'
You
whatever
are
perfectlyat libertyto return
your
conscience
considers to be superfluous,'
remarked
Afer.
Well, we will see how matters turn out,'answered Cestus,
with a grin. No doubt
when
the sad news
is brought to
your wondering ears, you will be in a dreadful state of mind,
and will lay the bloodhounds
the track of the villains all
on
an

man

on

road

was

Five hundred

for

out

stay you.'

not

walls have

"

However, better late than

at some
time.
Bacchus,

come

True,' repliedCestus.

old

i.

admiration,'the

delightand

never,

PAIIT

the

to

"

'

'

'

the

over
'

city?'

It may,

probably,be

such
necessary to act in some
knight,with a shadowy smile. ' Let me

very

way,' responded the

see,'he murmured, as he passed his hand
remained in deep thought for a few moments
and

will arrange

we

his

over

'

brow, and

come

to-night,

everything.'

'To-night!'
'

And, Cestus, be

'

Never

secret

; and

beware

of the

wine-pot.'

fear ; it is only when

Cestus is idle that he amuses
in that way.
Give him
work, and work to some
remains
and his head
like this,
clear as water
and

himself

purpose,
when
your

"

lays the

honour

plan

there

is

no

more

to

be

added.'
'

to

I shall go
to-day. To-morrow
your comrades
the day after to-morrow
at the Sublician
meet
me

Engage

Tibur

"

Bridge at nightfall.'
'

But

I shall

'

Yes

; and

will be
but

at

can

see
on

as you
you to-night,
the evening of the

the Sublician
be

nigh you

Bridge.

and

yet

said?'

day

after

It will involve

return

to Tivoli

to-morrow

much

held

up

his hands

riding,

before morning

breaks.'
Cestus

in affected admiration.

CHAP.

'

You

this

not

not

and

if

how

then

comes

shall

have

What

cooks

many

so

'

calmly.

We

as

easy,

little

broth.

the

to

notion.

complicated

this

for

not

care

so

hold

But

me

69

the

old
of

all

wait

to

again.'

devise
'

with

Afer

replied

Nothing,'

'

ROME

patron

forth

come

ANCIENT

scheme?'

fine

and

inspired,

are

will

man

OF

TALE

v.

of

dust

is

nothing

kind

in

There
certain

prefer

have

to
so

his

sure,

wine

or

meat.'

'

It

would

shook

is

effective,

too

fail

not

the

leave

the

that

he

knock

No

too

rough

our

It

common.

footpads

the

end

heavy

too

the

not

"

the

who

be

said

him

gave

this

since

first

watchmen

it will

thieves,

of

hands

when

morning,

next

gutter
the

at

for

right;

good

city

built.'

was

nodded

Afer
'

'

'

will.

Am

the

city?'

Be

as

replied

No,'

camp.

said,

and

to-night,

Come

toward

not

the

discreet

bade

I
to

you.'

have

the

this

will

the

Viminal
Pretorian

bowed

and

Esquiline
Plain,
camp.

Gate,

make

on

the

loitered
whilst
border

honour

turning

knight,

"

Cestus
of

little

in

man

his

met

about.

perhaps

are

you
old

and

Cestus,

my

talked

be

to

head.

suspicion.'

least

'Well,
find

his

knight

The

away
Afer
of

which

of

following

'

away

us

or

mar

leisurely
walked

lay

to

go

the

us.'
in

direction

the

quickly
the

you

toward

ramparts

the
of

the

CHAPTER

~\ 7HILST

A
*

this

passing

vessel

against

the

captain

of

observer

of

with

shaggy

'

of

you,
'

'

'

slow

with

the

interested

an

they

as

headway

along

Masthlion,

was

coasting

small

poop-house,

beard

and

shook

wound

the

up

and

down

up

to

the

his

Marina,
the

Each

made

took
foot

the

to

head

level.

mahogany

rest
next

dawn

set

above

to

arose

after

soon

to

with

man,

He

about

showed

retiring

potter
Rome.

to

moustache.

He

complexion,
exclamation

an

hands.
with

coming

other

no

than

reason

seek

to

tidings

Silo/

Good
I

set

the

was

led

individual

thick-

was

he

As

which

steps

short,

then

proceed

unchanged,

cliffs.

ascending

and

related,

making

view,

left

We

to

mind

the

an

little.

the

to

descend

was

little

within

passed

client,

Tiber,

standing

was

determination

way

of

that

back

go

morning
his

the

In

craft,

all

river

the

his

and

have

we

stream.

To

full

Afer

current

of

famous

between

the

which

conversation,

ascending

was

VI.

here

!
"

myself,

am

it about

thought

Masthlion.'

time.

your

Are

for

you

Tiber?'

the

Direct'

'When?'
'

the

At

or

noon,

sailor, casting
'

'

In

before.
his

business

have
Rome

You

I
to

eye
in

don't
the

Rome
What

"

lose

to

want

this

wind,' said

eastward.

give
has

me

passage.'

bitten

you

Come,

and

welcome.'
'

'

that

I
An

will

hour

I will

about

come

before,

send.'

noon

Masthlion

then.'
;

and

if

want

thee

before

CHAP.

vi.

The

TALE

OF

home, and

potter went

and
clothing

ROME

ANC1EN7

71

few articles

gatheringa

after

together in a wallet,he quietlyresumed

work until the time came
for departure. During this period
Nesera glidedinto the workshop. A new
and radiant expression
beamed
her face and sparkled in her beautiful gray
on
The
delicate colour of her cheek
was
deeper. An
eyes.
unconscious
smile seemed
to
play on her lips,as though
The
respondingto the springsof joy and hope within.
of

food

tunic
loosely-girded

maturity. Her

household

round.

he

as

he

I am,

'You

the

going to

are

his
raising

going

are

the

up

gleamed white

to
potter literally

her.

child,and Silo's felucca

answered, without

her to tuck

wrists

to

hide

not

promised a splendid

caused

and

arms

glanced at

'Father,'said she, 'you

'

had

loveliness seemed

Her

afresh

bloom

fabric could

poor

work

her revealed

sleeves,and

and

coarse,

which
lithe figure,

of her

gracefulcurves
her

of

because

?'

Rome

sails by

at the

noon

latest,'

head.
father?'

of me,

she

continued,

drawingnearer.
did not

He
'

'

answer.

It is I who

have

You

sendingyou

am

said

it,child.

desire
a
satisfy
lifelong
able, likewise,to pick

to

But

the

see
a

up

to

hint

father ?'

Rome,
I

at
shall,

the

time,

same

be
I may
the Roman

great city; and

or

from

two

shops.'
far

'As

yourselfthe
'

as

concerned, father,you

am

need

not

give

trouble.'

Wherefore

'

asked

potter, in

the

doubt

as

to

her

meaning.
'

Because

Masthlion

can

save

you

the

journey.'

smiled.

whether
Lucius
go to seek to know
she continued, with animation
and
false,'
*

or

You

colour; 'you may

'

And

whence

of, child?'

want
'

Here

stay

at

did

you
he said.

!' she answered

home, for I

gain

the

can

true

man

heightened

tell you.'

knowledge

proudly,as

be

am

trulyin

she laid her hand

over

her heart.
A

smile of

father's

admiration,and yet compassionate,rested on her

lips,as he gazed into her kindling eyes, and watched

NE"RA

72

PAitT

face.
glowing hues spread over her exquisite
and dignity,
fresh nobility
unknown
before,seemed
the

the maiden

forth upon

beneath

brain comprehended
but the
'

the

her

by

'

Facts

acted

from

their

the fashion of
You

impulse and

'That

mistaken,Neaera,'he said,

it would

bale

to

to

me

continued

have

But

the

bed

'

lived to

no,
of the
"

no

Masthlion's

back

come

think of him

then

slippedfrom

eyes

was

about

an

hour

his appearance
with
board, without delay.

and

Neaera ; and as
his impatientfriend
The

have
many
their eyes and

use

of that !

with

bad

of

news

Lucius,and

again.'

fair wind

the

that

you

will be

for

nothing.'
round
caressingly

room.

though a reflected gleam had

sigh,he meditativelypursued his

made
on

how

dulled,as

vanished,and, heaving
work.

trust

said.'

never

neck, and

It

to

sea

you think it. I warn

you
and that your journey will go
disappointed,
As she said this,she wound
her arms
his

wise

more

but

No,

be

not

cold, heartless men.'

expect

thus forbid
'

longer the child,

no

dry than attempt

girlof her folly. Meanwhile, I shall go to
intended,and try to satisfy
mind, after
my own

as

'

againstyou,'he

are

rather try and

cure
a lovesick

'

was

acute

her head.

soberly afterwards

Rome,

often

so

simple faith ;

thereto.'
entirely
But she only shook

to

it

graces,

blossom

His

wonderingeyes.

change ;

foolish heart is

touched

had

to

woman.

The

minds

his

New

i.

cast

when

young

urchin

from Silo,to hasten him

message
He
went, accompanied by his wife
he

off and

blew,

noon

as

soon

before

set

foot

on

board

the coaster,

hoisted sail.

Silo,the sturdy skipper,was

thoroughlyamiable. A fair wind and a good cargo, homeward
a nautical Caliban
bound, would render even
gracious.
water,
Next
morning they passed round the long mole, or breakof the port of Ostia,which
of the
lay at the mouth
Tiber,and, thereon, Masthlion's eyes noticed a tall soldierly
standingand evidently
watching them keenly. Beneath
figure,
the closelywrapped cloak the surprisedpotter recognised the
lover,and was even
proportionsand carriageof his daughter's
close enough to make
out, or fancy he did,the young man's
and

CHAP.

TALE

vi.

was

73

self
Assuring him-

helmet.

point,the potter shrank farther within the cover of

had passed.
poop-house,until all danger of recognition
which
Toward
evening they arrived at their destination,
of the
the emporium of Rome, situated under the shadow
this

on

the

polishedcrested

his

features,beneath

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

Aventine

in the midst

of

the banks.

Here

earth

the noise and

clattered

and

Through
senses

the

and

and

the

to

and

maze

air

The

ship. Waggons

him

weighted by

and

he

along the

full of

was

rumbled
abounded.

provincial

unaccustomed

suddenly plunged,
glances at his wondering
river-side,
nearlyas far as the

had

amused

the

of

markets,

the

fro,and weather-beaten seamen

Silo guided Masthlion, whose

with
shipmaster,

companion, hurried

and

the ends

from

hither,to

sellers thereof.

into which

bustle

imperial
extended
warehouses
along
the timber, the marble,the

And

shore

on

oppressed

were

roar

bustle

once,

localities of the

merchandise

stored.

and

buyers and

the

corn,

speciesof

landed

assembled

the

were

stone, the thousand

the

and
river,

lined the

city.Wharves

busiest

of the

one

himself,at

the Surrentine found

Thus

Mount.

been

Here, not far from the spot where stood

the altar of Evander, the oldest legendarymonument
of Rome,

Trigeminan Gate.
the sailor entered
unmistakable

evidences

of

well

filled with

of

business.
flourishing

It

tavern.
a

customers,

was

an

substantial
and
To

was

the

with the
building,
reputation
; for it was

old

alive with

all the

bustle

hard-faced,keen-eyed

prietor
pro-

ity,
who
establishment,
greeted Silo with familiarthe shipmasterpresented his friend,
in need of comfortable
him
lodgings for a time, and having seen
comfortably
bestowed,returned to the business of his coaster and cargo.
satisfied with a good meal, a young
After Masthlion
was
to guide him,
lad,the son of the landlord,was commissioned
the
on
a stroll through the adjacentparts of the city,
as far as
he found
lightof day would allow. On returning,
decreasing
his friend Silo released from
his engagements, and together
they passed the evening.
of this

'

Know

you

anythingof

the Pretorians ?

asked

Masthlion

innkeeper,ere he retired to his bed.

I know
they are camped on the far side of the city,
beyond the Viminal/ repliedthe lusty-tonguedpublican, I
that Caesar brought them
there some
know
years ago, and
of the
'

'

ME"RA

74

Sejanus is their
know, a greater man

that

Prefect

PART

is,between

who

"

in Rome

than

ourselves,you

hirftself. All

Caesar

i.

this

know, and what is left is,that they are a set of overpaid,

underworked,overdressed,conceited,
stuck-up,
strutting
puppies.
I

That's
'

about
'

Ah

much

as

said

as

'

have

'A

look ;

poet named

but poetry
faith,

'

the wrong
traders swarm,
and
I

am

on

that poets abound

But
warrant
you.

is

trade I

opinion;
a

with,and

meddled

never

comical

Aventine,where sailors and

not
poets. I doubt not, worthy Masthlion,
in Rome, for Rome
is a very largeplace,I
side

What,

you
gentlemen ! does

Balbus

in Rome?'

of

readiness

expressinga generallyreceived
Balbus ?'
Rome
a poet by name
Balbus !' repeatedthe host,with

in

you

delivered with

were

these

by

if

confidence,as

then

them.'

disheartened

Masthlion, somewhat

bluff,energeticwords, which
and

of

tell you

can

of the

must

cried he

know

one

any

seek

and

go

them

of

elsewhere.

poet

abruptly,puttinghis

head

named

inside

well filled with drinkers.

tolerably
at the question.
North, south, east, or
laugh arose

room

'

?' cried

west
'

Scarce

one.
as

shouted
gladiators,'

another

'

the times have

starved them.'
'

Nothing can

them

starve

"

the

poets, I mean,' answered

for a
to quell the merriment
dry voice,which seemed
and baths of
space, they are as thick as bees in the porticoes
Agrippa. Your Balbus,not being there,landlord,enter the
bookshops and you will find as many more, readingtheir own
books, since nobody else will. You will find plentyof Balbi,

thin

'

be

assured,but

no

poets

drowned
Laughter"
landlord

'

know
he

the

his head

withdrew

Horace

'

the last

was

of his

remainder

speech,and

into the passage, where

the

Masthlion

awaiting.

was

he

"

Balbus

said

to

the poet does not seem

the potter. ' But what

of these
says

thingsany

more

than

to

do

be

very well known,'

these rough swinkers

myself?

Nevertheless,

than inquireat the

might do worse
you
of the
baths and
porticoes,where the men

true, and

bookshops, the
and
calamus
inkpot love to air the wit they have scraped
togetherby lamplightin their garrets at home.'
of
The
potter,thereupon, retired with an uneasy feeling

CHAP.

and

helplessness
as

the

make

he

walked

principal
the

shops

be

Pretorian

75

mind,

with
about

in

Hills

from

least

at

far

as

delight
his

camp.

In

He

had

viewed

lofty

and

business,

the

of

had

admiration.
he

gave

he

the

an

about

the

temples,

time

along

had

He

save

hours'

passed

city.

young

thus

three

had

ment,
arrangehis

of

would

mounted

many

point

made

services

that

He

determined

dawn,

He
the

feeling

centre

had

have

to

distance.

the

after

time.

labour.

and

buildings.

and

and

mansions,
below,

his

soon

his

of

evening,

long

streets

Capitoline

to

time

forth

again

was

previous

much

had

use

he

the

himself

sallied

he

utmost

which

by

guide

ROME

filling

hopelessness

morning

of

ANCIENT

OF

Balbus.

regarded
Next

to

TALE

vi.

the

gazed

Palatine

at

and

porticoes

and

surveyed

the

city, spread

Then,

deeming

it

order

to

proceed

time
to

the

CHAPTER

TN

luxuriously

-*"

He

had
his

father,
his

office.

had

been

into
his

inherited

his

absorbing
His

united

he

largesses,

persuasions,

body.

held

them

and

with

his

of

broken

hand,

while

fair

They
onward

and
he

at

if

less.
nerve-

showered
them

upon

troops

steps,

garrisons,

words

were,

together

isolated

in

picked

Emperor

Guards

power

and

these

ambition.

leverage

around

Far

its

the

was

the

once,

in

ever

list

paper
brows

were

list

the

the

on

There
which

end
the

across
was

on

at

the
of

life

work
ground-

need

was

had

winning

walk,

that

in

and,
and

full
in

of

the

over

at
a

and

through

of

least

helmet,
and
to

profound,

and

His

incessantly.
write,

to

name

would

of

the

where

cuirass,

and

suspicious

his

added

he

of

and

of

was

chink

outward

of

the

on

monotony

manner

all

goal

compiled.

then,

ante-chamber,

person

succeeded,

now

the

paper,

the

camp,

dark-thoughted,

down

sat

after

name

peer

panoply

such

he

great

apartment

resumed

every

the

to

of

the

his

toward

laboriously

paced

intervals,

slow

entrance

guard,

he

this

path

sheet

long

matured

again,

paper
his

he

and

became
up

of

midst,
its

being

was

closely knit,

Thus,

walk.

lay

names

springing

then,

in the

and,

table

reflections

his

As

the
of

barracks

silently hewing

was

On

hopes.

and

streets

thousands,

mind

plotting

the

lay

with

swarming

in

his

under

the

by

stroke.

bold

at

his

of

strength

great

promotions,

rewards,

the

of

his

bounded

which

about

be

to

by

cohorts

Scattered

liberally. Popularity
and

the

spirit saw

subtle, aspiring
Here

the

scorned

power

pen.

unlike

but,

Prefect,

and

thoughts

command

of

the

Sejanus,

his

father's

gather

to

with

lust

were

Led

one

Aelius

room,

busily engaged

alone,

was

fitted

VII.

the

to

stop
curtain

Pretorian

buckler.
Prefect

appearance,
mind

even

as

TALE

CHAP.

vii.

that

of

Tiberius, his

with

combination

77

had

Nature

master.

formidable

very

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

of

him

endowed
be

to
qualities

fired

With
handsome
and
a
burning ambition.
ing
imposof mind, activity
of body, a plausible
exterior,
energy
this man
was
insinuatingmanners,
dangerous
tongue, and
enough. But when the cold subtletyof his brain and the
devouring fire of his heart were
unhampered by scruple or

with

life of the

in his

man

No

tigermore

murderous

failed ; for he hesitated

craft had

stealth and
the

terrible.

he became

remorse

path through

not

the

when
strike

to

honour

at

of the

glide to the crime of murder

through the
bauchery
guiltyexcitement and pleasureof female conquest and dethe depths of infamy and
there he bottomed
and

wife.

could

He

horror.
what

For

dread

the
purpose was
What
dark scheme

the table ?

list on

that white forehead

voice of the

The

of the
steadylengthening
was
developing behind

sentinel in the

his meditations,
and he
upon
the table and thrust the paper into a drawer.
in the ante-chamber
done so, when
a voice
broke

room

outer

hastily
slippedto
He

had

called

scarcely

the

name

Afer !'

'Titus

repliedSejanus.

'Enter, Afer!'

'I

thought

of

you

as

breathingthe pure air of Tibur.'

A
The
knight accordinglyentered the room.
large
his
-cloak
form, and a Phrygian cap
enveloped
travelling
his head.
I am
covered
on
now
way,' he answered ;
my
In the Baths
yesterdayI was lazy,and remained at home.
of Faustus
yesterdaywas Sabinus.'
'

'

'Ah
'

He

!' said the Prefect.

grows

no

wiser,but indeed

respecting
you.

think

rash and

more

it would

be

prudent

ous
calumnito

watch

spite and virulence might

do
people. He loudlycondemns
you
indeed
is
of
the
bloodhound
the
and
Germanici,
as
being
equallybold and noisy in accusing you of usurpingthe place
of misapplying your
of Caesar, and
authorityto your own
Such
ends.
speecheshave been heard before,but there are
those whose
ears
are
only too ready and willingto suck in
such ravings.'
Afer ; Sabinus has about reached the
You
are
quiteright,
reckless fool ; for
mischief amongst some

such

'

even

his

78

NEJERA

end

his tether

of

he

PART

be

must

after,'said

looked

i.

Sejanus,

I am
taking out his tablets and making a memorandum.
rightglad he has, at last,given vent to his ideas,so plainlyin
the presence of such an
So you
one
as
yourself,
my friend.
stayed your journey to tell me this ? it was kind.'
Also to learn whether
I can
able
congratulateyou on favourfrom Capreae.'
news
'Hush!
not
so
loud, Afer !' repliedthe Prefect, raising
his fingerwarningly; it will be time enough to speak freely
'

"

'

'

of

when

matter

chance

is assured

success

; then

failure being buried

possible

of

there

is the better

in silence.

I expect

courier any moment'

'Indeedl'
'

he will

what
'

I could

'Humph
smilingalso.
the

At
and

he

within

waited

have

doors

until

for his arrival

now

"

bring I cannot tell.'

remarked
Afer, with a courtlysmile.
guess,'
!' quoth the Prefect,shrugginghis shoulders

stepped

curtain

the

to

courier he

The

arrived,and

the sound

moment

same

was

sentinel

the

of voices

and

looked

and

his ears,
the antechamber.

caught
into

anxiouslyawaitinghad just
the
advancing to announce

so

was

same.

exclaimed

'Ha!'
'I
The

unbuckled
his

underneath

wore

before

expected you

courier

Prefect, stepping into the

the

tunic,and

thereto,a packet,which

he

this

your
leathern
"

stout

took

out

of

chamber,
ante-

despatches!'
girdlewhich he
a pouch, attached

delivered into the eager hand

of

Sejanus.
'Wait!'

said the

his chamber, he
With

packet.
he

ran

latter

turned

briefly;and

aside

and

without

broke

the

returningto
seals

fingerstrembling,and a heart eaten

his eyes over
the imperial missive.

with

of

The

second

his eyes flashed.

With
exultation written
line of his handsome
face he went
back into the

on

the

ment,
excitenext

every

presence

of Afer.
the latter,
at
right!'remarked
the firstglimpse of the Prefect's glowing visage.
I give thee
joy of thy noble Livia ; and I congratulatemyself that I am

'Ah,

"

I knew

it, I
"

was

'

the first to do

so.'

his client's

Sejanus grasped

hand,
feelings.

of his

in the exuberance

Enough,
prophet. The
himself

laughed
fairly

and

out

letter hath

This

Titus !

my

"

days to
along with

thither.'

me

'

if you
and gladly,
Willingly,

'

Return

his hands
wine

79

proved thee a good

daughter of Caesar is mine indeed,for Caesar
I go to Capreae in a few
declares it. Nay, more
claim her.
for thou must
So prepare, my friend,
go

'

'

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

TALE

vir.

CHA1-.

within

loudly,and

the courier be

Bid

'

this ! he

and

"

the

the table and

The
without

He

clapped
Give

to

him
from

said,takinga small purse of money

picked

demands

when.'

week/ said the Prefect.

slave appeared.
ready to return to-morrow
the domestic's feet.

throwingit at

slave

will tell me

it up,
see

and

you,

said, 'There is a man

Prefect
a
workman, by
"

appearance.'

to

'

What

'

He

will

not

say

only that

"

he has

come

from

Surrentum

you.'

see
'

is his business ?'

then, and the sentinel as well.'

slave retired,
and, in a few moments, the armed

Admit

The

him

usheringin

torian made

his appearance,
his way to the camp.

left on

our

Pre-

potter,whom

we

Sejanusgave him a hasty,but keen glance; and the potter,

Prefect with a
and dreaded
in his turn, surveyed the famous
fearless but respectful
Bowing his square, sturdyframe,
gaze.
he waited to be addressed.
with me?'
you, and what do you want
the welcome
over
Sejanus,skimming his glancefurtively

'Who
asked

and

letter which

what

he had

justreceived.
Masthlion,and

is
My name
repliedthe other ;
'

on

be

on

and, as I

prudent

am

venture

potter of Surrentum,'

to trouble

you,

noble sir,

of your officers,
perhaps
if this soldier did not hear it.'

Sejanus looked up
curiously. With
"

The

Afer, who

in
an

surprise,and
amused

look

regarded
on

his

his visitor

face,he

theless
never-

who
retired from the
sentinel,
silently
deep-set,
expressiveeyes of Masthlion then rested

nodded
room.

'

personal matter, concerning one

it would

more

are

to

had

it.
idlyunrolling

the

pickedup

book

from

the table,and

was

8o

NESERA

'

can

As

business is

your

remain?'
'

potter, but
'

I have

State,perhaps my

seeking information respectingone

judge whether it be right
you must

come

not.'

Know

I will leave

circumstances
'Let
'

of my
those
said

it

which

I do
with

into

enter

not

regard to

my

I tell you the

the request.'

when
your generosity,
have brought me
to make
to

hear!'

me

poor man,
yet the peace

hands,

belongingto

preciousto

of my home, and
dear to me
as
as

are

me,

with the labour

bread

earningmy

only a

am

Masthlion.

the
to

welfare of

the

noblest,'

I have a daughter,Prefect ; all the

because she has no sister or brother
'

me

Sejanus,with

uttered
'Ah, I perceive,'

smile

friend

the
State,'replied

of the

not

then,potter of Surrentum, that

suffer the inquiries
of any idle person
nor
said Sejanussternly.
officers,'
'

I.

sarcastically.

business is

of your Centurions,and
the noble knight hear it or
'

of the

not

said the Prefect

No, Prefect,my

PART

curlinghis lips.

'Go

on

the

shadow

more
'

of

!'

easilyguessed!' repliedMasthlion, 'and it

needs few words.
This Centurion of whom
I speak,in passing
through the town, saw my daughter. Since that time he has
'Ay

it is

"

visit her at my house.

She has been
called beautiful,
Prefect,but she is not his equal. I bade her
than

more

come

tell him

to

once

so, and

forbid

marriage; but though

that he is
not

not

one

to

him.
she

deal

On

he

demanded

her

in

him, yet I will be satisfied

or
carelessly
by her,or I will
lightly
loves

consent.'

forgottenthe name
said the Prefect ;
indispensable,'
'You

'

His

'

Even

have

of
'

and

the

yet I

Centurion, which is
can
only guess one.'

is Martialis.'

name

so

The

Centurion

may well not objectto as many

and also preferthe land route to

give him,
here is the explanation.'
sea
Sejanus burst into a laugh,whilst Afer, who

journeysas
the

that

can

"

immersed
'

in his

seemingly

was

book, stroked his chin.

'

continued
the Prefect.
Men
and
right,'
to be prudent,should
not
women,
marry out of their station.
Your daughter must
be a paragon
of loveliness,
or
cleverness,
have
ensnared
to
Centurion.'
or
goodness,
my

Potter,you

are

'

TALE

vii.

CHAP.

is such

She

she

as

it

way

of his

frown

81

ROME

is,Prefect,and

Masthlion,with
'Whichever

ANCIENT

OF

turned
one,'re-

no

ensnares

shaggy eyebrows.

be, if they have

fallen in love with

for you will be

to it,
other you may as well leave them
'
When
a
put to rule them,'laughed the commander.

each
hard

trulyin

is

woman

parts with what

she

love

littleforethought

had, and leaves her senses to find themselves in cooler

I can only tell thee,potter,he is not
days. As for Martialis,
take away his hand
the man
or
to change his mind
lightly,
she

he has

when
'

could

nothing;

know

grip.'

said Masthlion sadly;

beset,'

sore

am

set his

once

here in Rome

something.'
The performanceof
me

beyond

that lies not

thought I might learn

Centurion's duties is what

the

'

in Surrentum

'

cerns
con-

province,'
replied

within my

Sejanus.
be hard

yet it would
sighedthe potter.
'

And

'

To

mind

conclude, you may

as

far

I know

as

to

somethingmore,'

not

to

know

go back

to

Surrentum

the

said the
contrary,'

with

an

easy
with
Prefect,

to be a piece of lovers'
signsof impatience. 'This seems
If he is fool enough to
follyon the part of the Centurion.
tion.
she may think herself lucky in her elevamarry your daughter,
in his position,
of gentleblood, would
Many a man
have
of his family
proceeded differently.'Tis pity none

remains

to

him

dissuade

from

such
grafting

scion

poor

on

to

their ancient stem.'

'

not

the

his

"

I seek my

daughter'shappiness,

her

the potter proudly.

position,'
replied
Is the Centurion
! Then
Good
I know
nothingmore.

'

an

that

nothingfor

care

acquaintanceof
knight.

yours, Titus?'
the

'

No, I have

'

Then, potter,you

not

favour,'added
'

You

honour,'answered

Sejanus,turningto
Afer.

may take that as a strong

the Prefect satirically.

in the best of

are

cried

remarked
spirits,'

assurance

in

Afer,showing his

white teeth.
'

can

Now, potter,you

giveyou
'

can

stay,how

"

'

Neaera !

'

go,'said Sejanus; you

is your daughternamed?'

repliedMasthlion.
G

have

all I

NEMRA

82

'

the

Then

probably have
But depriveme

despiteof

in

end

will

girlNeaera

your

PART

you.
between
ye, or you shall lose my
is worth
than all the
to me
more

He

hags in Campania, honest or

He
clapped his hands, and

and

before
'

"

'

not

Mamercus

the

near

"

not

of my

way

in

turion
Cen-

favour,I promise you.

maids, wives,widows,
wait !'

"

the

slave attended

same

familyfriend

old

an

he visits on

Martialis,whom

own

as

Nubian.

dark-skinned

Lygdus, is there

not

her

i.

the Aventine

of the Centurion

'

temple of Diana,'repliedthe

slave

laconically.
'

thither,
potter,

Go

"

I,'said the Prefect,waving

than

Masthlion
a

will

Mamercus

his hand

the Nubian

followed

and

brightercountenance,

serve

and

back.

apartment with
to

the

complaint/said

Afer

quickly on

was

turninghis

of the

out

better

turn

your

his way

Aventine.
'

to

Your

Centurion

has

caught your

his patron jestingly.

'
it !'
The
gods confound

not

improve

with

repliedthe Prefect,

wife will

fool ! to saddle

Centurionship.The

himself

red-faced,
brawny-armed brat of a clayother arrangement ;
no
moulder, most likely. As if there were
I'lltry my persuasion.And
for Capreae, my Titus !
so
Whenever
you are ready,Prefect.'
Be back within four days.'
I leave you happy.'
No longer; and tillthen farewell
a

wife

his

own

now

"

'

'

'

'

"

'

'

Farewell

Remember

friends at Tibur

our

!'

I will'

bowed, and
with delighton

Afer

Pretorian

left the

commander

to

nate
rumi-

his

good fortune,and to indulgehis mind

with dreams, more
and glowing than ever, on the
intoxicating
of his last,
and, perhaps,most important
strengthof the success
move.

the gate of the camp,

and drawn
rapidtravelling,
At

mules,

was

waiting for

on

this occasion

formed
had

been
After

vehicle

was

the

lighttwo-wheeled

by

dismissed

the modest

back

to

for

couple of handsome, speedy

knight.

despatched on before.
proceeding about nine

vehicle

miles
the

The

two

slaves,who
retinue of the traveller,
from

Rome,

city.

the hired

couple of

hours

CHAP.

TALE

vn.

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

83

in a second carriage,
at the outskirts
arrived,
the steep
of Fidenae, which
stood on
of the ancient
town
banks of the Tiber,on the Salarian road, which led nearlydue
sides of a
had
thus completed two
He
north from Rome.
and, as the firstshades of evening began to gather,
triangle,
the third side in a third conveyance.
he began to traverse
The road entered the Colline Gate in the Agger of Servius ;
thick enough to
when
he reached
that point the dusk
was
and paid the
prevent recognition.Here the knight descended
dusk

before

Afer

head, and bent his steps towards

Aventine.

the

arrived
and

at

built

and

Ancus

Janiculumwith

the

on

by

half

hour's

an

bridgewas
Martius,to

the

city.

rapid walkinghe

the oldest in

relic. In

It bore

these

proximityof

the

Rome,

tions
the fortifica-

connect

wood, however, the increased traffic and

growingcitybegan to overweightit. A stone
built close by, and the old one
preserved as
sacred

his

over

Bridge beneath

sacred

acter,
char-

constructed

Being

especialcare.

under

was

the Sublician

The

his destination.

been

had

less than

In

of his cloak

the hood

driver his fee ; then he drew

burthens

of

the
then

bridgewas
a

of

venerable

and

loitered.

Afer

It

dark, and the feeble glimmering of two oil lamps,

suspended in the gloom, denoted to passengers the foot of the
modern
bridge; its ancient fellow being buried in darkness.
now

was

Across

the river the

of
lights

towards

cityglimmered, extending up

nightwas
pervade

yet young,
the air with

waggon.
lightof

Mount

the

and

there

dim

hum

was

arose

but

over,

sufficient stir in the

of

life,broken

by

the

cityto

the tread

belated
passers-by,and the rumble of some
glidedthe
along the pitchystream
Stealingsilently

voices

and

the

knight the Aventine

answeringgleams. The day'stoil was
Behind

Hill.

with its

portionof the
culum
slopes of the Jani-

the Transtibertine

of

occasional

an

vessel,its hull shrouded

and

invisible.

importunatebeggars,sturdy,halt,and blind,
haunted
the bridge and pestered the passengers,
who
as
yet
the
the
figure
impatient knight company.
Suddenly
kept
feeble
strode under the
of a man
glimmer of the lamps and
the tribe of mendicants.
few hearty curses
bestowed
a
on
No

one

Afer went
'

Oh,

but

the

up to him and
oh !' said the

'it is you, patron 1'

laid his hand

new-comer

in

on

his shoulder.

the

voice

of

Cestus ;

PART

NE^EJRA

84

is

'

It

'

There

take

up
'

are

Come,

early,' said
toward

the

early,'

too

yet

yet

little

let

knight,

Aventine.

about
and

Suburan.

the
it

they

will

which

complete,

to

arrangements

replied
us

Afer.

replied

few

time,'

then,
the

i.

at

once

disappeared

the

old
in

man

the

retires
darkness

VIII.

CHAPTER

situated

T)LEASANTLY

Janiculum
in the

the old

heightof the
More
delightful

during the

of its cool breezes

summer,

or

commanding
Fabricius.

the villa of

was

enjoyment

yet in winter

the

on

ex-senator

was

heats,

summer

seldom

away
however, he

times,
day together.
would
yieldto a desire to make the journey to visithis estates;
His suburban
often.
but this was
not
villa,and not his
of his happiest days of prosperous
the scene
was
birthplace,
domesticity. But that was all changed. A few select friends
With
of old times he yet preserved and cherished.
these,and
he passed his
consolations of a well-stocked
the serene
library,
under
the
uneventful
resignation,
haunting
days, in calm
it for

from

his

of

sense

seclusion

whole

loneliness.

of his

days ; he
stirred,and all was
former

silent

house,

listened

he

As

to

he

and

sat

conjured

brooded
up

well-remembered

the

the

in

the

ghosts
voices

"

of
he

then, what painfulsighs

gone again. And
such had those walls
his breast.
Alas ! how
many

from

arose

At

listened to !

evening Fabricius sat in his winter room, before a

in a brazier on
the ample hearth,
burned
fire which
brightly
for the October
nights were
chilly. His elbow rested on a
On

this

table,whereon

small

were

lying books

writing materials.
blazinglogs,and his

and

bent on the
eyes were
in the past. The
soft lightof the silver
mind
far away
was
lamp beside him flooded over his face,and revealed every line
and
wrinkle,as sharply as the level rays of the settingsun

.But the old man's

displaythe

seams

expressionof
high, bold curves

native
the

and

by

an

air of

furrows

on

mountain's

breast.

The

determination
and
displayed by
courage
relaxed and overof his features,was
borne

melancholy, so deep,

that it seemed

almost

NE"RA

86

PAKT

pointof merging into actual

slave roused him
old grizzled

tears

had

from

his reverie.

the

on

of

an

'What

do

domestic's
'

he

say, Natta?'

you

asked,

T.

the entrance

not

catchingthe

not

announcement.

There

is

awaitingin

man

the

wishes

porch,who

to see

you.'
1

What

'

of

?'

man

He has somethingimportant
say.
says,'repliedthe old porter, with apparent

craftsman,I should

tell

to

kind

he

so

"

sarcasm.

'Ay, ay, I know

him

1'

sighed

Fabricius.

'No

matter,

bring

in.'

retired,and reappeared with Cestus, washed,

but clean garments, such as
clean-shaved,and wearing coarse
The

slave

artisan would

an

since Afer

hours
below.

had

entered

He

and

nervousness

ex

tapped him
with a deep

obeisance

and

within

Natta, the
the door, and keep

-senator's scrutiny did

contraction

his

of

in the broad

burly Cestus

It

which

soap

cast

and

at

the

bridge

well-feigned
slave, thought
a

keen

eye

on

perhaps,beget the
slightand almost imperceptible
not,

eyebrows.

Teutonic

full two

was

the shoulder

on

confidence,to judge by the

utmost

the

holidayattire.

awkwardness.

proper to remain
the visitor.

The

his

as

reserve

There

of face

and

and

water

dently,
that, evi-

was

small

eyes of
could not

razor

remove.

habitual

The

of

man's

features,but it chargesthem

alter his
as

current

mind
with

cannot, it is true,
an

essence

as

able
read-

printedpage.

It was, therefore,the misfortune

of the physiognomy of
Cestus to leave no
favourable
for he had not as
impression,

yet opened his lips.

'

'

"

me,' said Fabricius.

The noble Fabricius !' answered
Cestus,with deep humility

You

wish

to see

perhaps too deep.

'I
'

down

he; your business?'

am

So
at

boldness
threshold

pleaseyou,
the

noble

river below

sir,I

am

nothingbut

there,and

trouble your worship,or

of your palace,but that

to

I would
to

set
come

my

poor labourer
have the
never
a

foot
not

across

of my

the
own

CHAP.

TALE

vnr.

accord,but

befriend

to

of mine

mate

paused, and nervouslyfingeredhis

'Well !' said Fabricius,
'go on
account, but

own

your

It

concerns

that of

on

also,and

you

alone,'repliedCestus, with
of

smile rested

sick friend
told

was

not

next?'

tell it to

to

you
shadow

The

he

as

on

come

what

"

Natta, however, feignednot

motion, and did

not

Natta.

the face of Fabricius

on

retire.

slave to

have

You

glance at

dying.' Cestus

is

who

belt.

87

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

signed to

the

observe

the

to

move.

Natta,'said his master, and the old porter

he did, with reluctant
had no alternative but to obey, which
suspiciouslooks at the visitor.
steps and sour
Now
speak,'said Fabricius ; I think I could guess at
it aught to do with a
Has
of your message.
the nature
'

You

go,

may

'

'

domestic

of mine

matter

?'

repliedCestus, I will tell you exactlywhat I

please,'
that is
for I know
told to tell,
nothing more.
Lupus
was
has been hurt to death by a block of marble which
my friend
slippedupon him whilst it was being slungfrom the ship on to
and I did but clean myHe
sent for me
the quay.
to-night,
self
did
"I
He
t
o
and
said,
come
straight your palace.
mind
has lain heavy on
deed
some
a
my
years ago which
'

'

So

"

"

since

ever

which

fell upon

hope, and
there

heavier

"

dwells

ease

mind

did, for my

mind.

had

can

tell him

On

the

torments

me

of that child

"

more

bid him

Luna

is no

there

Seek

him,

tell him

and

what

crushed
body.
my
little
a
goddess ; I

than

littlechild

from

top of Janiculum

with thee, that I may

back

a
granddaughter,

He

going fast ;

am

Fabricius.

named

nobleman

hither

bring him

my

block

cursed

that

yesterday.I

me

I must

than

even

"

with

come

haste !

years ago I stole her from his door and sold

"
'
yet lives a slave !
In spiteof himself; in spiteof the numberless

teen
Four-

her.

She

"

tales and

and
violently,

beat
keen

Fabricius
previousdisappointments,
a

seize his limbs.

tremor

plausible

felt his heart

Cestus's

small

eyes noted the change of colour on his cheek.

Fabricius to himself; 'right
'Fourteen
years !' murmured

almost

to

alas,my

again?

'

the

very

month

little darling my
"

how

could

he

littleAurelia!

know

that

shall I be

if
"

fooled

88

NE^ERA

'

I pray you,

PART

Fabricius,be speedy,out

i.

pityfor my poor
It
be beyond reach.
comrade/ urged Cestus ; he will soon
sin against you, but your nobleness will pardon
a
sore
was
And
a
dying man.
besides, you will forgive me, noble
sir,for offeringa suggestionof my own ; if Lupus departs
without
seeing you, you may thus lose all chance of ever
could
gettingyour lost grandchild again. Ah me, that one
of

'

such

do
a

deed

rob

as

paltrysestertia!

few

This

of

sighingkind

with

Senator, racked

old

for the sake

'

in

uttered

was

of its sunshine

house

doubt

of sotto voce, and the

eagerness, with hope and

and

the fear of

disappointmentand disgust,
oft-repeated
passed his

hand

his brow

over
'

Go

his Greek
Tibur

'

the

to

poignantdoubtfulness.

but no !
my nephew
hither t'other day to say he was
Phoebus
aid me
does
Where
!

Esquilineto

boy

for

in

came

"

space.
of thine dwell ?'

going to
this

Cestus ;
far away, so please you,'answered
side of the Aventine, nigh to the Ostian road.'

Not

other
'

It is

Fabricius.

'

It

friend

of

Lupus,

fact

he

seems

muttered
late,'
the
observed
is,'

as
particular

time.

to

In

Lupus live past midnight I shall

sir,a block of marble crushing poor
If

noble

'

but

forgot;

'

rade
com-

on

the

is not

Death

time.
preferthe nightwonder.
Imagine,

to

flesh and

bone

"

ugh, 'tisterrible !'

'

You

'

I did

'

You

'

it ?'

saw

are

am

luck.'

worse

"

labourer

!'

see

"

like him ?'

worthy labourer

showed

his hands.

They had been

rubbed
and engrained with dirt before washing. So
specially
cleverlywere they prepared,that they might have belonged to
The

hard-handed

any
'

Did

'

Never.'

'

And

says ?
away what
he

had

harm
slave

"

oh

your

comrade

what
'

does

said
to

I
!'

of toil.

son

me

ever

he

tell you

never

of this theft before ?

deserve,think you, if he have done

Fabricius,speaking with
was

done

'

precious than

more

him

To

sell the

as

agitation
taking
;
'

life itself.
sweet

What

child for

'

TALE

vni.

CHAP.

'Twas

crime

observed

'

Cestus.

indeed, and no fate

But
haste, I beseech

dying;

have

for, as

like

not, you

plain to

as

me

him,

pityon

devil is

and

you say so?'

is easily
vouched
for

Humph;

'

That
not

you

'

'

to

me

die with

'

lie

Will

myself.

his

on

lips,

Go

with
you,'said Fabricius,
the

to

porch

now

Fetch

?
to-night

"

sudden

me

cloak

my

demanded

mination.
deterBid

Natta, haste !

take their staves

Crotus

'

wait !

and

the

and
and

forth

go
'

cap

astonished slave,

in at his master's call.

ran
'

than

others

by

would

the Aventine.

What,

who

'Tis all

again.

must

or

Pannicus,Cyrrha, and
'

maid

I go back and tell him

'
distraught.I know not

come

I will go with

with

yourselfas

sir.'

noble
'

poor
well ;

do

Faith,I am
'Tis scarcely
he
likely

'

The

you

him,'

for

Lupus, some
twenty
then
and
as
ever
stepped;
is plainenough to see now

blithe a fellow
as
years ago, he was
he began to change. Ay, ay ! It
what weighed upon him.'
'

hard

too

serve

get your
may
When
I first knew

now.

89

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

Yes,

now,

this minute

that his mind

Now

with eagerness,

and,

"

made

was

ere

haste 1 '

long,he

up the old man

and his slaves

was
were

burning
ready to

depart.
In the meantime
the

outer

step.

The

Cestus

went

to

the

porch

and

stood

on

risingbehind some
heavy
shone dimly through the rifts.
effulgence
moon

was

cloud-banks,and her
The
great citylay stretched below, with its gleams peeping
through the hazy gloom. In the uncertain lighta form crept
of the porch,and whisperedto the
noiselessly
up to the pillars

standingthere.
'Well, is he coming?'

Suburan

'

Yes

"

take

care

; he

is here !

'

repliedCestus,

and

the

figureglidedback into obscurity.

followed by the three slaves bearinglanterns,
Fabricius,
forth.

came
'

It is

hindrance
'

It is

Fabricius ;

moonlight,Fabricius
than

"

otherwise,'observed

moonlight truly,but
'

so

the lanterns will be rather

until it mends

not
we

Cestus.
much

as

will carry

yet,'answered
our
own
light

NE"RA

90

with

Lead

us.

PART

with Pannicus,and
good fellow,

on,

we

I.

three

will follow.'
did

Cestus

he

told,cursingthe lanterns in his

Pannicus
walked
heart.
by his side. Far enough behind to
the cloaked
observation,
form, which had spoken to
escape
Cestus,dogged their steps like a stealthytiger. They passed
down
the hill and
through the Transtibertine districtto the
the Sublician Bridgethey proceeded to
river. After crossing
the gate of the Servian rampart called Trigemina,and then
the Aventine Mount
ascended
by the Publician Road.
as

was

In the earlier times of the

It had

citythis hill had

been

regarded as

been

occupied chiefly
by plebeianfamilies,
but now
was
as already
fashionable,
becoming more
following,
said,the inevitable rule of the wealthy classes seizingupon
the citywaxed
the most
elevated and pleasantsituations,
as
great. At the head of the upward road Fabricius and his
party passed the temple of Juno Regina, which Camillus had

ill-omened.

built after his conquest

undesirable
slaves were

of Veii.

The

three

lanterns of the

accompaniments, in the estimation of

Cestus,so he rapidlyhit upon a plan which might lead to their
extinguishment.Fortune favoured him as they passed the
The
moon
glanced out
temple of the famous
conqueror.
disc from behind the sharp edge of a
with her silver-bright
of the temple,as well as
black cloud, and bathed the columns
every objectaround, in a flood of splendour. The obnoxious
with their smoky, yellow glare,
were
useless,and a
lanterns,
The
moment
was
to the pure
contrast
brightnessaround.
Pannicus
the slave,walking on the left of Cestus,
opportune.
the full length of his
at
carried his lantern hanging down
fell to the earth,Cestus
As the moonbeams
rightarm.
posely
purhis
and
his
with
left
panion's
comacross
foot,
falling
slipped
his
hand
of
lantern
to the
the
out
path, dashed
dark.
became
ground, where it instantly
cursed
to turn
some
on
stone,'said
'My ankle seemed
Cestus, as he gathered himself up, rubbing his elbows and
knees.
Fabricius
'

of

No,

not

inquiredif he
much

"

was

hurt.

nothingthat

can

feel yet, save

bit

shake.'
Pannicus

took his lantern to his fellow-slaves to have it relit.

CHAP.

'

TALE

vin.

mind

Never

the

OF

ANCIENT

lantern,man

ROME

Who

91

candles

wants

with

lightas this Diana gives us?' cried Cestus, with a

partingrub at his dusty clothes, come, we can see better
such

'

"

without.'
I think

'

The

road

the remaining

and
quietly,

extinguished.
began to descend againtoward

lanterns

two

Fabricius

so,'remarked
were

the

valley. In
less deeply,

or
through the rock,more
and at one
particular
spot it passed through a grove of trees.
walled the upper side of the road,
The chiselled rock,which
and fringedto the very edge with
was
scarcelybreast-high,
ancient trees,as though the process of cuttingthe path had

placesit was

some

limited

been

by

cut

veneration

for the spot and the bare requirements

This was
hand which required
a barrier on
one

of the work.

considerable

to
agility

the face of the hill continued

of the

path into
unable

the dark

surmount.

On

slopedownward
depths of the grove,

the

oppositeside
from

to

which

the
the

edge

light
moon-

of those silent,
one
penetrate. It was
fast
which were
secluded,mysteriousspots, rich in tradition,
was

to

the relentless march

before
disappearing

few paces within it stood

Its
to the deityof the grove.
A

and

surrounded

trees

it.

by

worn

centuries of

and

silvery
rays

The

of the

spreadingcity.

largesquare altar,dedicated

sculpturedfigureswere
elementarystrife. The

spread their branchingarms

of Diana slipped
through upon

tinct,
indis-

hoary

far above

it,and

it

stood, barred with lightand shadow, in its sylvanloneliness

and, as one
mysterious,
might fancy, meditatingon
ghostly,
"

the memories
It

was

to

of

hour

The

road, never

was

had
dwellings

generations.

this spot the party led by Cestus now

growinglate accordingto the habits of

The

"

approached.

peoplethen.
deserted,and the

very busy at any time,was

ceased before they reached the sacred
until

grove.

they arrived within

eightyor ninety
They
yards of the ancient altar. Fabricius was
busy balancinghis
the logicof his experiences,
and his slaves were,
hopes against
walked

no

out

on

doubt, cursingthe whim

on

such

nocturnal

of their master, in

bringingthem

expedition. Suddenly Cestus, who

beguiledthe way by an intermittent conversation with his

ously,
companion Pannicus,picked up a stone, and flung it vigorhe could,among
the branches
of the trees,in
as far as
had

NE"RA

92

the direction of the

altar,which

pebble rattled among

turfysod beneath.
'What
good
now,
has your day'slabour
'

'

Dost
'

trees,
another

see

owl 1

an

"

'

not

PART

the

they were

approaching.
with a thud,on
fell,

twigs,and

cried Fabricius

fellow?'

from

I.

The
the

behind,

given you sufficientexercise ?'

it?' said Cestus,pointingto the tops of the
shu I
And
he made
a loud noise and
flung
not

'

stone.

Hush,

man

will stir the

you

"

of the

goddess

leave the owls in peace 1' said Fabricius.

Cestus
accordinglydesisted,having done

grove

much

as

as

"

he

required. In a few strides they were

oppositethe altar. The
Suburan
stopped, and wheeled round so suddenly, that the
old Senator and his two slaves well-nigh
ran
againsthim.
what
'What
man
now,
possesses you?' said Fabricius
sharply.
One minute,so pleaseyou, to pray to the goddess for my
"

'

comrade

poor
'

?' asked

Cestus.

Go, then !' repliedFabricius

in

and

the

altar,where

he

gentle tone,

pretended workman
stepped aside to
appeared to engage himself in devotion.
in whispered tones :
Are you all there,and ready ?'

the
He

lows,
fol-

prayed,as

'

and

murmur

voice

'
stones, Ready, ay, and
'

old

Three

dogs

sick of

of slaves who

himself.

man

I have

sick comrade

for

When

we

backs

like four thunderbolts.'

move

Having
'

on

to

I shall

will

at

run

on

died

then

to go

of the

they yonder?'
a
shout,and the

leave, for

get better who

turned

shadow

minute

to

five years ago.

come

back,when

on

you

our

sibilant

him.

'

will

are

"

and
whistle,

said this Cestus

sh !' detained

waiting

come,

pray

the thick

from

rose

Wait, Cestus, I think

be spoiled hark !

I hear

horses'

feet,and

the

game

'

"

But

Cestus

was

either not

keen

hearing,or else was

so that,
speedy end of the business,
second or two, he snarled in reply,
so

of

impatientto mak'e a
after listening
for a brief
'"What horses,you fool ; there are no horses out this time
the night,on this road
justas likelythe goddess herself
ready for the whistle!'
too

"

"

of
be

With

that he

of such
half

dozen

and

TALE

vin.

CHAP.

fell on

on

the

Fabricius.

Cestus

unconscious
resting

were

had

scarcelytaken
his signal,
shrill

gave

like

At

the

dogged

shadow
himself

time the

which
figure,
Janiculum,leaped down from
same

their steps from the

the rock-wall of the road and stood
had

93

from the
tigers
slaves.
Cestus
affrighted

leaped

forms

Four

of the altar and

bounded

rejoinedthe party, who

dangerous trap. They

steps onward, when

sudden.

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

apart

to watch.

Two

of

onslaught,but the third

had managed to escape at the top of his speed. Fabricius,
who, in despiteof his age, retained yet a large use of his
had taken sufficientwarning
keen
and bodilyactivity,
senses
the charge of Cestus with a vigorand meet
to raise his staff,
ous
flashed
blow.
The ruffian staggered,
and the moonbeams
which was
dashed
from
upon the polishedblade of a weapon,
his hand by the lucky stroke.
Wretch
! the old man
shouted,when a blow from behind
felled him
senseless.
Cestus, furious with rage and pain,
belched
forth a frightful
was
imprecation.His right arm
benumbed
or
broken, and he stooped for his knife with his
the

fallen in the

slaves had

sudden

'

'

other hand.
Not

far away was

the
of horses and

sharp

in the

turn

jingleof

The

road.

accoutrements

smote

tramp
their

on

ears.
'

'

Bungling fool ! hissed the mysteriousfigure,springing

forward
in which, so far,the Suburan
to complete the work
had been foiled.
But he was
met, and rudely thrust back by
the powerful arm
of the confederate
who
had knocked
the
Senator

down

'Take

your
'
he's
more
hoarsely,
The
in

poniard was

of horsemen

almost

the others

upon

had

them.

on
glittered

moon

of the

The

lad/ bellowed
my
mine than yours.'
the

horses.

ground and

rushed

struggling

and

answer,

recesses

the bend

of

individual

they closed

cry of 'Cave/'
the wood.
A

in the road

and

was

in military
and the
They were
attire,
their polishedhelmets
and the trappings

The

men

rounded

that

suddenlyraised

fled in all directions into the

body

the

slash of

time,

when
struggle,

and

behind.

from

foremost

trooper immediatelysprang

forward,followed by two
parted and darted into

or

the

three
grove

to

more.

after

NE"RA

94

companions, whilst the

singlingout Cestus, followed

their
He

few

him

the

of

top of his speed.

the

at

new-comers,

upon the heels of the Suburan,

in fear of his pursuer, who possessed

nerve

far fleeter foot than

foremost

i.

hard

moments

strained every

who
a

in

was

PART

himself.

favoured

Fortune

him

justat

the critical moment,

when, in terror,he seemed to feel a hand
his collar. The
roots
of a tree
outgrowing,straggling
upon

tripped the foot of the trooper, and

crash,to the ground. The fall was
seconds

flew,with

he

violent

so

dire

that he

he

himself

Fabricius.

Flasks

When

lay

picked
up,
the whole
of the flyingvagabonds had
disappearedamong
the gloomy boles,like water
through a sieve,leavingneither
He
sound behind.
shook himself with a laugh,and
trace
nor
gatheringup his brazen helmet, walked back to the road.
others of the troop were
here dismounted,using their
Some
for

few

stunned.

best efforts to revive the unconscious

wine

produced ;
rubbed
side

water

temples.
until

side

by

from

his

on

and

The

prostrate Fabricius.
man

The

inanimate

two

helmet

full of

It is hard

badly hurt?'

'Is he

the

only

trouble of

Centurion, 'is,or
band.

narrow

few minutes.

Do

However,
best.

your

time,Drusus ?'
This questionwas addressed to one
his horse
close by.
Leading reins
bridle and held by a mounted
charger's
wait for

brought

be

No

heaven

'

repliedthis

will

I ?

What

Why,

me

not, it is

or

bathingthe

was

was,

rather

"

he

is worth

Do

you

he
the

objectto

were

I hold

He

sat

is all this ?

but you ?'

simplyin this

attached

soldier
this
and

motionless

sat

on

each

delay as
the

to

on

his

side.

kind

and

air of

sweet

more.'

no

showed

rapid.

was

remember

soon

person,

'

who

pleasant moonlight

know

soon

Fabricius
recovery

the

brief

fortunate,for the

'

laid

were

asked.

he

to

said the

'Humph!'

am

could

water

and

forehead.

old man's

'

slaves

say, Centurion ; but, dead

the comrade, who
of the Senate,'replied

wears

his mouth

into

neighbouringfountain to be dashed upon them.

beside
knelt down
soldier we have particularised

'

poured

were

were

and then his

life,
Where
glanced around.
know,' he ejaculated. 1

symptoms
up

and

Ah, I

of

'

!
"

way,'responded the

officer ;

'

we

saw

CHAP,

over
never
'

into

Most

surely

deprivedof

and
Fabricius,
this

able

are

'

I dwell

Thanks

the

on

I will prove

and
night,

exertions

his

Fabricius,
rising
arm.

about

been

decoyed
help
is Quintus

feet,with

My name
Janiculum. I owe
if my
my gratitude,

the

life

my

to

and

means

so.'

do

to

I have

I have

well.

as

to

Centurion's

of the

littlemoney

of what
life

my

would

probablyyou

earth.'

robbed

"

trap,'said

you

later,and

moments

spoken againon

95

couple of night-hawkssquabbling

you.
have

and

me,

few

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

ground,and

the

on

you

TALE

vi ir.

thought, but thankfulness,that we

chanced
rest was
to arrive so opportunely. The
they
easy
off when
we
ran
they caught sight of us
saw, and
came,
laughing.
conquered !' said the officer,
Be that for me
to determine,'
rejoinedFabricius ; I will
ask but two thingsof you.'
'There

needs

no

"

"

'

'

'

Name

'

The

'

We

them.'
firstis the

name

good

score

are

of

I have

one

of fellows

would

"

to remember.'

cause

you

wish for them

all?'
'

'

'

'

only. Through you I shall know the rest.'

For their sakes,then, we are Pretorians.'
with gentleimpatience.
So I see,'observed
Fabricius,
Centurion
name
Well, then, I am
thereof,and my
Thine

Martialis.
much

what

of

another, and

as

sir,and

But

I will send

The
murmured

old

three

or

amounts
to

still somewhat

or

twice the

all have

We

the whole

two

man,

once

that?

name

to

guard

you
confused

he had

done,

one

nothing,
"

as

come,

home.'
and

trembling,

heard,as

if it bore

familiar sound.

some

'Your
it of

name

old,'he said

'

ringin

to

seems

but

that in

my

ears

as

good time.

if I had

heard

Having given

will not, therefore,refuse me

the honour
of your friendship.Give me
your word, you will visit me, and
be found
to
speedily. In the Transtibertine I am
by the
me

your

name,

you

simple asking.'
with pleasure,'
I accept your kindness
!
swered
anWillingly
with growing impatienceto go onward.
Martialis,
'

'

Come

with

you,'urged the

me

old

now
man.

Your

men

could

return

without

NE"RA

g6
'

What

entice

PART

from

me

duty !

my
his
cried Martialis,
head
shaking
be

would

He

'

"

officer of
him

who

and

frank-minded

the led

on

of

"

he

an

that zealous
lead

to

of

son

Fabricius,in
stopped he pushed up

exclaimed
be

could

tonishment
as-

to

seized his hand.

of that

"

his officer

sends

Germanicus!'
ere

the speaker and

Drusus

try to seduce

would

felon,to Rome.'

and

'

not/

laughing.

when
horse,'especially

Prefect

Germanicus, like
'What!

bold,indeed,who

would

you

Prefect,'interposedthe quietlybitter voice of

our

sat

and

Nay,

i.

unhappy family. Evil

same

fate spares

not.'

us

pardon, Prince, but this is against my orders,'

Martialis,
interposed
quicklyand firmly; you will not compel
'

Your

'

'

!'

responded the ill-fatedprince,in

voice.
Farewell,friend,whoever thou art.'
the Centurion,and the band
! commanded
ceeded.
prohimself walked on foot at its head, in order to lend
Lead

Enough

on

'

mournful
'

?'

them

enforce

to

me

March
He

'

the support of his arm.

The
slaves Pannicus
effects of their adventures
than a
Cyrrha, with no worse

the old Senator

and

confused

singingin

their

heads, brought up the

wise they continued, until they had

descended

to

the

level

ground

near

crossed

the

leave of his preserver, with

of thanks, and
Martialis detached

heartfelt words
to escort

men

him

home.

Continuing on his
file. The clang of

his troop in double

with the jingle
of accoutrements,
led

awoke

and

mount

Trigeminan

the

Fabricius took

Here

In this

rear.

way

few
two

Gate.
warm

of his

the Centurion

the horses'

hoofs,
the echoes of the silent,

Ascending the Palatine they halted before the

received
Imperial palace,and were
by an officialand a few
slaves.
The
prisonerwas desired to dismount, and he was
led into the palace. The
him
lightsof the interior showed
to be a young
of not more
than one
man
or
two-and-twenty,
and he maintained
denly
the sullen expressionof one
who
has sudempty

streets.

been
'

'

made

the victim

of deceit.

Is this my journey'send?'
he asked
Here
I must
quit you, noble Drusus

instructions than

palace.'

to

leave you

in

of Martialis.
; I have

charge of

the

no

further

keeper of

the

CHAP.

'

Take

me
'

keeper,

the

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

TALE

vin.

97

to
then,' said the prince,
haughtily,
and forget
eat,and drink,and sleep,

to

my room
where I may

I am.'

what

keeper obeyed and led the way through the halls of

Caesar,until they arrived at a narrow
passage, which terminated
of stone steps.
in a descendingflight
demanded
the prisoner
'Whither
are
you taking me?'
halt.
he came
to a sudden
as
sternly,
The

the

'To

of

vaults

official

the

palace,'answered

the

laconically.
'

'

Know

who

you

Perfectlywell.
I have

vaults,and

?'

am

But

alternative but

no

prince looked
young
useless any resistance would
The

breast with

silent stoical
Torches

to the heart.

steps, and

it

lit and

were

it.

unlocked

to

move

in the

before

party descended

the

needed

the
The

passage.

heavily-barred

narrow,

Martialis

touched

underground

It

its

on

to

which
resignation

along an
palace halted

the

place you
obey.'
to

around, but seeinghow

fiercely
be, he dropped his chin on his

went

keeper of
door, and
cause

ordered

am

strong pressure

it did

hinges,and, as

so,

to

heavy,

atmosphere puffed forth,which caused the

in.
The
flicker and
torches
to
splutter. They went
of the rock; spaciousenough, but
interior was
hewn
out
The
trickling
humid, chill,and horrible a perfecttomb.
the walls, glistened
icilythrough
moisture,which bedewed
the gloom in the light
of the torches,and the floor was
damp
and
and
traced with the slimy tracks of creeping
sticky,
things. There was a palletand a stool,and the slaves placed
damp, noisome

"

eatables thereon.

some

'

You

Martialis felt sick at heart

you are
place unfit for a
are

sure

place a
the gaoler.
"

'

beast

It is the best of all the

The

balmy

The

change

air of the

him.

grievedto

'

was

to

round, in

from
frightful,

quit you

you,
in such

this fearful

whispered to

reply.
stupefied
way,

the sunny
Martialis

Drusus,'he said

leave

dered.
shud-

the brief

lovelysea-girt
Capreae.

I must

to

in?' he

rest

was
vaults,'

unhappy princelooked

shivered.

to

rightin bringinghim

and

lodging
"

it

must

'

and

skies and

stepped up
I am
sorely
be

by

error,

NEMRA

98
if so, I will
once.'
and

fail

not

PA

do

to

best

my

have

to

in

i.

it rectified

at

said the unfortunate,looking with fixed

'Thanks, friend,'
bid them

'

eyes ;

Without
and

another

word

of the

wall,and

the

torches

order

Martialis took

second

laid it

it,he
extinguishing
succeed

other

the

the

Full of

hand

Then

needed.

on

the

distress,

of its bearer,and

the littlestool,so

on

when

iron socket

an

withdraw.

given to
lightfrom

was

down,

sat

despair.

in mute

fixed into

was

palletand

to the

he went

buried his face in his hands

One

!'
speedily

their murderers

send

that it

taking his

might
large

militarycloak from his shoulders,he gentlydropped it over

The
form and turned away.
the unhappy prisoner's
dungeon
then

was

as
hastily

vacated
he

locked, and

and

able,with

was

air and

into the fresh pure

he
reached
When
summoned

to

the

by the
Proceeding, on

Prefect

Centurion

rushed, as

painfulfeelings,
up
moonlight outside.

heart full of

sweet

the

commander

received

the

with
his troop, he
camp
deliver his report, which
to
with

sign

every

of

was
was

satisfaction.

impulse, to describe the dreadful

and
of the prisoner,
he was
circumstances
coldlyinterrupted
turned
He
dismissed.
to go, inwardlyburning with disgust
and indignation.
quired
Stay, Centurion ! cried Sejanus; you have been infor here to-day it is rightI should inform you.'
'Indeed!
In what
and
by whom, may I ask?'
manner,
said Martialis coldly.
Ha !
You
!
a
By a workman
potter from Surrentum
change colour !'
Tis not from shame
returned the other haughtily.
at least,'
from
conscious
follyrather. You would wed
No, no
interests. Amuse
a potter's
girl. You are blind to your own
yourselfwith her, if you wish,but think twice ere you bind a
clog about your neck.'
such clogsare as easily
And
even
got rid off as assumed
retorted the Centurion cuttingly.
at the present time,'
Sejanus bit his lip,and his brows met darkly. The retort
his

own

'

'

'

"

'

"

'

'

"

'

cut
more

home, for he

had

put away

his wife

freelyhis guiltyintriguewith

daughter-in-law.

Apicata,to

Livia, the

further

Emperor's

vin.

OHAV.

However,
the

in

case

Martialis.
As
not

not

replied

of

such

long

just

ANCIENT

OF

he

But

matter.

TALE

'

sarcastically,

99

That

is

virtuous

eminently
think

as

you

it

affects

not

suffer

that

to

as

ROME

true

men

as

it

proper

is

"

Centurion

your

but

not

yourself,
own

your

ship

care

I.'

"

than

'Rather

relinquish
answered

my
Martialis

duties

entirely

coldly,

and,

"

Prefect,

happen,
you

saluting,

need
he

have
left

the

no

room.

would

fear,'

strainingevery
CESTUS,
of his failure,

nerve

as

he

fled

from

the

scene

feel the

to
expected each moment
fingers
into his collar. Doubling
of his rapidlygainingpursuer hooked
this way
and
that through the gloom, in imminent
peril of
all the terrors of a hunted
smashing his skull,and experiencing
hare, he gave a gasp of joy when he heard the crash of the
trooper'sfall at his heels. A few more
leaps took him out of
sightand hearing; and then he doubled on his track. When
he gained the edge of the grove, he dropped down
at full
shelter,with his heart throbbingwelllength in a convenient
dulgent
nigh to bursting,and his eyes swimming. His slothful,inhabits rendered
him totally
unequal to such a terrible
trial of exertion,and
his horrible gasping for breath was
so
him
render
of
whether
there
severe
as to
incapable perceiving
were
signs of further pursuit. Burying his face in the
any
grass, he smothered, as well as he could, his grievouspantings,
until he recovered
listen with
breath
to sit up and
sufficiently
still as
attention.
All was
more
as
death, however, and, in
another
the
to make
quarter of an hour, he felt emboldened
best of his way to the safe haunts
of his native Subura,
Going
and
gained the Ostian
cautiouslyhe quitted the Aventine
of the city. As he progressed
road which
to the heart
ran
his ill-luck and
along the deserted streets he began to curse
the
The
promised reward,
speculate on
consequences.
its
his grasp
than
before, yet shed
though further from
it to ponder over
his mind, and
whetted
newed
reglamour over
plans, on a less delicate and ingeniousstyle,more
his own.
peculiarly

The
left

vast

exterior

of the

Walking swiftlyalong

Circus
its

Maximus

towered

on

his

moonlit, porticoedbase, full

CHAP.

of

TALE

ix.

of

caves

ANCIENT

another
ill-repute,

ROME

figureappeared,so

Traversingthat mighty circuit of

overlooked
the approachingobject,
as
small animal

he found

himself

his pace.
and
same,

in close

The

mind

the

much

'

verge
con-

was

that

then

began to wax
trot, whereupon

smart

looked
over-

stranger did

of Cestus
a

have

mountain,until
he quickened

the

Suburan

the

He
uneasy.
he was
hailed

'

recognisedthe

Cestus

came

might

one

and
proximity,

result of this

'

'

to

as

the

masonry,

the side of

specked on

started off at
finally
by an angry voice.
Stop,you fool !

as

101

the track of Cestus.

to

on

OF

dread

I did

said
clear,'

got away

swifter foot than

mine

behind

Cestus,humbled

and

abashed

had

you

nigh
"

me

been

Afer

in

it not

had

knight

sharply.

anything else

than

luck

by good

bold to be

the

he said,as
recogniseyou, patron,'

have

'More

waited

patron and

surprise.

as

not

up.
So you

of his

tones

there

"

was

replied
slipped,'
'

by his failure.
caught,it had

You

too

were

times
fifty

been

worse.'
'Rest

yourselfeasy

that

on

score

"

such

not

am

bungleras yourself.'
but you
'Well, patron, the plan failed,

hardly blame

can

me,' began Cestus.

'

Whom

then ?

braggingworthlessness
'

"

Well, but, patron

of the

ends

road

of your
It is the climax
you.
idiot !' said the knightwrathfully.

if not

at

the

"

once

soldiers !

Who

could

Another

minute

and

be at both
I had

done

finished it even
to perfection I had
now, but for
my work
that meddling fool,who chose to put in his word.
Be reasonable,
patron ; I carried out your plans to the very letter and
"

minute,but

you
interfere.'
to

made

no

provisionfor

troop of legionaries

Silence,blockhead ! could I not see?' fumed

the old dotard, if they had left you to it,would
'

skull,thick

your
'

with

No,

never

"

as

Afer.

have

Why,

cracked

it is.'

if he outlived Saturn !' retorted the

risingvoice,as

Janiculums.
fifty

'

Let

well
me

as

do

Suburan,

choler,'nor fiftydotards from

the job in my own
way, without

NEMRA

102

PART

I.

tomfoolery of a whining tale and a moonlight walk,

cohort of asses
lurking on one's steps leave it to me

the useless
and

"

you shall see.'

'Yes, I should see you with
Afer.
sneered
proclaimed,'.
and

alone

you

do

what

would

you,

'I

Fool
you do alone?
Cestus
fool !' returned

no

am

and

contempt

his patron

epithetsof

and

noose

self
my-

it to you, indeed

Leave

this,with four

better than

cannot

'

in

neck

thy

stout

fellows

If

back

to

!'

fiercely
;

for the

more

were

than

cutting

he

could

bear.
double

'A

thick

of

'

and

sense

tell

fool

'

slow

thee, Afer,

fool,

swaggering, bragging, drunken

of hand
faugh !

"

"

am

no

fool ! ' bawled

Cestus

'

it is

thyself!'
I

'

was,

trust

to

postponed
with

cur,

supper,
its tail between

! thundered
'

are

shall

You

under

that

know

thumb.

my

its

legs. Begone

Afer, in uncontrollable

'

more

Fabricius
his
eats
workmanship.
your
off to your
and
are
foxholes,like a
you

"

One

clever
word

as

and

trouble

me

no

passion.

you

think

yourself,you
'

from

me

I bid you!' hissed the knight,

'Silence,you dog, when
stridingup to him and clutchinghis collar.
cried
'Not
Cestus, thoroughly roused
I, by Hercules!'
off the grasp.
reckless as he shook
and
You, a chicken'

hearted, double-faced

pauper, to be
Let that silence

my
thee

'

master

for ever
!'
/
Accipe
The
knight threw up his arm as he spoke, and the Suburan,
giving a sharp cry, fell heavily,stabbed in the breast.
Afer hastilywiped his poniard and replaced it in the folds
'

of his cloak.
'

tell

There

no

is

no

he
bungling in this,'

muttered

'

dead

men

tales.'

by the heels more

of a
into the shadow
swiftlyon ; and, before
of Tibur,
morning dawned, he entered the yet sleepingtown
ing
disappointedin mind, and yet not altogetherwithout a feelOnly delaying to

of
taken.

satisfaction and

drag the fallen

wall, he hurried

relief

at

the

man

course

circumstances

hnd

CHAPTER

shadow

the

far from
NOT Forum
of

X.

and
Capitoline,

the

of

nigh

the

some
Caesar, Plautia dwelt in a small, but handmansion.
Her
wealth, although not as great as that
brother, was
yet ample, and in
squandered by her spendthrift
her

better

hands

controlled.

entertainments

Her

famous

very frequent,but, nevertheless,were

which was
set for their enjoyableness,

provided,but

fare

We

selectingher guests.
attractions

the

them

her

than

She

and

was

all of

misleading, that
inflamed
thereby to
the claws which
lay

and
of

stare

her.

bent

for the

possessionof

upon

her handmaids

contrary

morning,

going forth

to

the

were

or

take

the

could

tantalisingone.
proof
people awarded

most
"

three

"

at

and

days

air,and
borne by
litter,

haughty

as

proudest patrician
individuals,proverbial
information
namely,

secret
were

return

the

any
those
Even

her actions

two

her

which

fame

which

as

domestics

and

the

and
indifferent,

perennial; but yet absolute

substantiate

to

matron

was

in

So

therefore, and

were

rumours

unembarrassed

One

with

manners

familiar.

and

mystery,

She, herself,was

and

hostess

quisite
ex-

in velvet.

Whispers and
wanting
was
her.

the

to

the

of

tact

Her

now,

presumption,became
sheathed

lack.

no

encouraged
sorrowfullyaware

ere

one,

alone

not

certain

alreadyattempted to describe
brilliant,
though voluptuous, style of

had

she

the

amongst

have

perfectlyfree

were

more

lovers

Of

beauty.

of

to

more

due,

not

were

fault ;
humours.

later in

she

came

able,
secret, vari-

so

story, she

our

to

the

porch

of

four

powerful slaves,stood
roofed in, and of sufficient size
awaitingher. This litter was
It
of the occupant lying at full length if necessary.
to admit
her

was

house, where

also

furnished

with

curtains,which

could

be

drawn

so

as

NE"RA

104

to

perfectimmunity

secure

PART

from

This

observation.

T.

ance
contriv-

for

in ancient
so
common
Rome, was
conveyance,
the
standingon
ground, and Plautia stepped therein,before

admiring

the

of

gaze

Lydia, a
causeway.
half companion, was
her

hand

and

that she

drew

abashed

; it

she wished

the

be

to

thronged the
half lady's-maid,

that

alone

to hide
partially

the curtains

was

pedestrianswho

female, who was

to follow,but her mistress waved

young
about

her view.
interrupt

to

not

said

the

third consecutive

With

her face and

yet

into the house

withdrew

maid

The

day.

morning

she

had

been

treated ; such behaviour was

unwonted, and being filled
with fears and
doubts
of all kinds, she forthwith began to
so

heartily.

weep

The
the

four

slaves,not

discomfited

all

at

girl,bore

grieved to

off

their

lose the

mistress

beasts of
human
The
EsquilineGardens.
look.
It
than exchange a fleeting
more
been
third consecutive morning they had

weight of
the

toward

burden

dared

no

likewise,the
given the same

was,

direction.
of the

the north

To
which

gardens lay that portionof

called the field of the Viminal.

was

This

the

plain

extended

to

the natural drill and

camp, and was, therefore,
ground of the troops. Thither the litterof Plautia
exercising
the outside of the ramcarried by her direction ; skirting
part
was

Pretorian

the

of

after
Servius,

There

engaged
for
to

were

in

it had

number

passed through the EsquilineGate.

of the guards in the plain,busily

exercising.Approaching within

witnessingtheir movements,

set down

the litter and

rest

convenient

the slaves

were

tance
dis-

ordered

themselves.

Plautia,
reclining
the cohorts eagerlyand
of disappointment
a look

withdrawn,scanned
keenly. After a lengthened survey
gathered graduallyon her face. She ordered her litterto be
again scrutinised
raised,and from her elevated positiononce
to get no
She seemed
satisfaction
more
the moving ranks.
with the

than

curtains

before,and gave the word

The

morning

full of citizens.

was

As

to return

homeward.

brightand bracing,and the streets were

her litter passed through the crowded

rudely jostledin a narrow

way, and in danger
of being overturned
by a crowd of slaves,who preceded the
Amid the struggle,
litterof some
presumably great personage.
Subura

it was

clamour, and

curses

rocked

OF

TALE

x.

CHAP.

voices,the litter of Plautia

of angry

in anger
than
curtains to look on

the

turbulent

her

vent

and

scene,

Such

out.

were
struggles

streets, and

called

sight of

handsome

her

interference

of

of

people, had
hastilythrust
suffused with

With

dread

who, along with

man,

up
forward, and

flush when
hand

by

narrow

her

Plautia's

his
arm,

He

became

face

perceivedit was

she

he

and
litter,
slave, who held it,to recover
whilst,with the other
position,

crowd

contention.

the

of the

grasped one
raised it,so as to

one

being

of

in the

the

no

tall young
been
dammed

deep

cry,

but the
interference;
particular
face, perhaps, inspiredthe friendly

for

himself

grasped

common

very

to

was

outside the

face

litter with her hand, in imminent

side of her

poles of

thrust

She

fear.

more

Martialis.

105

that she gave

so violently,
tilted,

and

thrown

ROME

ANCIENT

Lucius
foremost

allow

the

burly

overweightedgrasp
he

thrust

back

and

the foremost

the

There
was
opposing menials.
something in
the stern resistless strengthof the action which bade them
think better of their uncompromisingmanner
of proceeding,
of

they edged

and

abuse.

much
and

carried

fit

countenance

proud

eyes soft and

clothed as
was

his

and

notice

the

lustrous
a

bowed, and muttered

and, ere she could say

brilliant in

was
as

they dwelt

privatecitizen.

service/andher voice

amid

who

had

never

squabble, was

on.

Plautia's
who

side,though not without

both
free
partieswere

great personage,

himself

show

to

one

moment

the

and
disentangled,

thought

to

away more
In another

was

some

more,

She

colour, and her

the Centurion,
on
thanked

and

rich.

commonplace

words

tremulous

he turned

away

and

him

He

for

merely

in

return,

disappeared

the

throng of passers-by.
Plautia gazed after him for a few moments, and then sank
back on her cushions in a deep reverie,
which,judging by the
smile resting
her lips,
seemed
on
pleasantenough to entertain
her agreeablyfor a much
longertime than sufficed to bring
her to her
The

on

and

the

own

door.

lady entered her

by the perfume of
hearth.

The

brilliantin colour

favourite apartment, which

the costlywood
burning in

appointmentsof

the

and
herself,

as

on

room

was
a

were

small carved

vaded
per-

brazier
as

rich

citron-

io6

NESERA

table stood

wood

PART

delicate basket,tastefully
packed with the

beautiful flowers.

most

Lydia took them

saying, Martialis sent
'

'Which

Martialis

with

them

'Why,
surprise.

to her
up and presentedthem
these with best greetings.'

there

"

receiving
Plautia,

asked

two?'

are

mistress,

smile.

Martialis!'

Caius

replied

the

handmaiden

in

'Humph!' ejaculatedthe lady,droppingthe basket

it on
the table again. They are
almost
flinging

lessly,
care-

'

such

; take them

please me

as

'

her

voice

outer

cloaks

The

freedman

retired.

of

out?'
with-

door,

!' cried the

news

and

wraps
entered

the

to
a

"

low

ing
lady,relinquishof
care
Lydia, who
thick-set man, having

look about him.

rough, but yet intelligent
'Well,'said the lady, warming herself

sort

the

at

not

!'

news

Enter, Glaucus, with your

'

is that

yourself. Who

freedman,' answered

Glaucus, your

'with

i.

news

at

the

fire,'what

privateor public?'

"

that,at present,it is pretty well

private,'
repliedthe freedman, with an air of self-satisfaction
I have

'

'

importance,

and

think

to

reason

but

long

ere

it will be

publicenough, that

is very certain. I have learned that the Prefect Sejanus has

obtained Caesar's consent
to his marriagewith Livia.'
Glaucus
from

recover

if

paused, as

to

allow the

lady to

take breath

and

the effects of his communication.

as
marble, 'is that all?'
'Well,'said she,as unmoved
All ! echoed
Glaucus, staggeringback in astonishment
'

'

disgust. 'Why,

and
heard

breath

Plautia
fall of

the
'

every

one

information?
'

half

of

score

people

have

yet

of it !

burst
his
knew

Imperialwaters

not

'

into

fit of

heartylaughteras

that the

long ago.

fool!'

'Psa, you

countenance.

mighty Prefect
What

reliance

she watched

was

can

she

said,

angling in the
I place on your

did you get it?'

and from the lipsof the Prefect's
itself,

Where

In the camp
eunuch
Lygdus himself.'

own

"

'

Truly he might
cunning rogue.'

be

expected

to

know

but

he

is

CHAP.

'

'

is

what

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

107

know,' said Glaucus,with increasing

emphasis;

does

He

and

TALE

x.

the Prefect

more

been

has

summoned,

to visithis bride
grantedpermission,
is going accordingly
in a few days.'

been

'Ah, that is something more

twenty times worth the other, my

at

has

or

Capreae, and

he

the

that is
purpose;
Glaucus, for it looks like
to

business.'
'The
was

me,

than

two

his usual

continued
Prefect,'
that
only ill-pleased
or

friends

three

guard of

to

the

freedman,
would

Caesar

Tiberius

Pretorians.

few friends of the Prefect

to
interesting
'

he did
No, noble Plautia,

! thus

Ah

to

who

you

be ?

It

the

might

be

know.'

of course, the guard

the tall young brother
'

to

more

afraid
mightily

seems

were

told

in addition

island.'
of strangers in his enchanted
'
Perhaps the worthy Lygdus also informed
favoured

allow

not

him,

accompany

Lygdus

'so

going,except,
say who was
with the first Centurion
of Pretorians,

much

not

"

of Caius

Martialis.'

know

you

for

certain,Glaucus

?' said

Plautia

carelessly.
'Yea, for Lygdus
'Well, there

unless the Prefect

heard
be

cannot

change

'

Truly he might.'

'

And

the order

you cannot
companions of Sejanus?
so

"

any

given.'
better authority
than

that,

his mind.'

give me

the

they would

of the

names

be worth

chosen

said
hearing,'

Plautia.
'Indeed

I cannot, at present, for the

himself ; but I might hear before long.'
'
know.'
In that case
you will let me
'I

shall

fly,like

of the devoted

answer

swallow, to

knew

acquaintyou,' was

not

the

freedman.
thick and

heavy with flesh and years to

observed
the young lady satirically
do that,'
nevertheless,I
;
assured you will hasten on your legs as fast as you can.
am
indebted
I am
to you for several favours lately,
Glaucus
noble Plautia deigns to be graciousto her humble
The
said he, smirkingand bowing to the ground.
freedman
'

You

are

rather

eunuch

'

'

'

'

See

Open

it
"

that small
you
there is a purse

drawer

in

within it 1'

the

citron-wood

table?

io8

NE^ERA

The
took

did

freedman

PART

he

as

the purse.
the contents
'Transfer

and
alacrity,

with

desired

was

i.

out

to

pocket

own

your

and

replace

said Plautia,
purse,'

the

did

Glaucus

with

so

and
celerity,

admirable

gushed

into

of gratitude.
profuseexpressions
a
Enough
good man,'
you are

said his patroness, nodding

the hint and withdrew, and

'

"

the door.

toward
after

Plautia went
reflection,
:
followinglaconic epistle

moments'

few

indited the

table,and

'

Come

took

He

to

writing-

"

and

earliest.'

at your

me

see

gave it into the hands of a slave,with

instructions to deliver it to the Prefect himself,
wheresoever

Sealingit

find him.

might

he

up, she

which
letter,

another
it over.

She

composed

completingone
put into

was

to

the

pass

destroyedas
an

not

she
gone
had
as she

slave had
soon

amended

one,

until four

or

which

to

five had

her

usual

and
mainlythe receptionof visitors,

lessly
ruthin

to fold up.

proceeded

which
occupations,
the

the

succeed

drawer, and its fair author

with

hours

read

been

her

secret

wrote

shared

fastidious taste, did she

to her mind
sufficiently
satisfactory

sacrificed

It

she

former, and

fate of the

the

When

lengthyand

were

elaborate

business of the bath.

long passed since her slave had returned

followed
his errand, and his embassy had, so far,been
result.
Her
impatient temper suffered considerably,

The
from

by

no

time

had

was

about

she

and
when

the

'

You

termed

she been

her,

her

He

gesture could

himself

!' said

am

he, smiling
pushed his hand

She

exalted personage
have
been
not

beautiful Plautia !

salutation

that

the
really

Prefect

he

jokingly

haughtier in

laughed.

Forgiveme,

my
offended

of the

"

Had

manner.
'

peremptory mandate,

more

here I
for me, Empress
pinchingher beautiful cheek.

sent

and
gaily,
away.

of the tall form

appearance
the matter.

concluded

off

send

to

should

I will hallow

have

with

ought

been

to

have

known
Be

warmer.

my

lipswhat

my

if to

kiss her

rich-hued

not

fingershave

profaned.'
He

bent

down

his

as
lips,

cheek,

OHAP.

x.

but she

OF

TALE

him

pushed

ANCIENT

ROME

away,

and

reared

eyes.
wherefore
did

you

send

109

her head

with

an

angry

flash of her black

'Alas!

sighedhe, with burlesquesorrow

'

Psa !' she said

'

It

not

was

to be

me

so

cruel?'

an

affected

pain.

and

scornfully.
observed
always,'

so

for

the

Prefect,with

sigh.
'

And

should

be

noble Livia should

at

less

be

now,'

so

granted some

the

was

rejoinder
;

'

the

of faithfulness

measure

"

the firstat least.'

ho!

'Ho!

jealous?'

She

him

and
then
a momentary
glance of surprise,
gave
exploded into uncontrollable laughter. Peal after peal rolled
full and
and

the

apartment, and

forbid

idea

through
musically

as
spontaneously,

to

any

yet

freely
being

so

of its mirth

forced.
Well

'

amused
you seem
with a frown.
presently,
'

at

"

said
something,'

Jealous,mighty Prefect,on

sinkingon

couch

her

laughter.
but
fascinations,
to grow

'

I
I

the

!' quoth

Plautia,
fitful mutteringsof

freelypay tribute to
not
jealous. Never

can

such

at

with

account

your
sigh,and

am

rate, Prefect,or

the Prefect

your
allow

it will do

invincible
ceit
your conyou serious

harm.'
'

There

did you

is

he replied,
fear,'
bitinghis lip;

no

'

but whence

concerningLivia?'

know

bird of the air

'

'

If I could

net

brought it this morning.'

that

bird

same

would, perhaps,clip its

wings.'
'

To

what

All Rome

but the

purpose,

must

know,

and

pleasureof playingthe tyrant ?

speedilytoo, of the Prefect's last

move.'
'

That

Another

is true ; but
time it might

premature

of which
exposure
newsbearers
be more

Bid

your

have

not yet told

Partlyfor one

'

matrimonial
'

Do

simply to teach
happen to be a

you

why

me

more

you
look

might

that ?'

more

lead

to

wary, sweet
sent for me.'
at

she said
expedition,'
also know

him

you,

ere

you

her

caution.

secret

matter,

serious

results.

or

lady.

But

depart on

satirically.

you

your

NEMRA

no

PART

It is part and parcelwith the other.'

She rested her hand gentlyon his arm,

i.

'

'

face.
'

she.

You

going to Capreae

are

to

"

Li via,'
continued

your

of
congratulateyou on the success
follows then, Sejanus?' she dropped

What

the whole
her

"

low tone
'

Tiberius is

'
"

What

do

affair.

voice

in

old man.'

an

'

mean

you

smiled in his

and

said

he, bending

her

on

cold,

stony glance.
with a careless
she replied,
spoke without thinking,'
shrug ; I mean
nothing what could I ?
A careless and
dangerous habit,and one to be guarded
against.'
'I

'

'

"

'

Psa ! it is excusable

'

'

In

some

include

brains

the

one

should
you

'

for

once

no

he smiled

and
'

think

lies beneath

"

whose

wag.'
'

the

and

"

other ?

bring hither

And

your

did I allow

though you
judicialchair,

her foot with

charming affectation of wrath,

grimly.

I shall not
to

many
Plautia

of the matter.'

more

stamped

are

lady impatiently,why

and
inquisitor,

will make

there

them, beautiful

get before

to

but

their tongues

the

sighed

me

woman.'

perhaps ;

most

busilybefore

turn

She

yourselfamongst

move

'Ah

in

"

in

make

the

'

attempt,' he answered

that Plautia is wise and

prudent.

Come

am

tent
con-

! what

all this ?'

'

Why, see how you are at fault something I do mean

truly! she cried,clappingher hands with glee.
'Do you suppose
I ever
thought otherwise?' he rejoined,
rather puzzled.
subtle ot men
No, most
suspicionslie in a
; but your
I for your Livia,or Caesar himdifferent groove.
What
self,
care
the windings of your politics,
the bubblingsof your
or
or
ambition
for you have ambition,Prefect,and a goodly share
"

'

'

"

'

thereof
'

Let him

'

care

intent upon,
'
Which

drily;

'

Tiberius.

we

with

herd

oxen

who

has not.'

for these ; I am
too
content
the affairsof my own
small world

nothing
is the

rosy

realm

shall,probably,now
He

is

an

old

of

Venus

"

hear what

pensionerof

the

go

on

with, and
'

!'

quoth

this has to do

brightgoddess.

he

with

FOOI

'

quest.

I shall not

taken

have

that

I know

Wonders

strange method

of

same

wonders
did you

gods

The

preserve

deceiver

Miserable

Could

me.

trusty Pretorians?
tell me,

Pray

'

I have

at

"

'

laugh.
and

Prefect
Who

to

you

the

his

give

I know

with

he
children,'

full credit

you

not

! A Centurion

once

day

Plautia,

for your

myrmidons certainly
go along

depart

on

his

mission without

next?'

Prefect !' she wheedled.

alreadytold

you

I know

not

myself,and, therefore,

tell.'

cannot

I will

Then

The

"

wilyPrefect

going with

am

you
started back, and

/'

opened
fairly

his mouth

astonishment.

in dumb
'

it,for

as

penetration.Martialis

'

may

if possible.'
catch you tripping,
should
grieveto disappointyou, beauteous

said,burstinginto
with

your

await the

ask, then?'

I expose you
and a troop of guardsgo with you.'
'
have spent the
This is folly
; you
'

going

proceedingin

avoid
you are lovely; but I cannot
myselfwho are to be my companions.'

astute

is

who

know

tell you, sweet

lady ; you
bird
again.'
trusty

upon
Wherefore

'I

to

already.'

'

'To

I want

in

Capreae.'

to

tidingsof

ROME

ANCIENT

nothing whatever

"

with you
'
You

earth !

OF

TALE

x.

CHAV.

What

Plautia

You

set

her

'

Capreae with me !
lipsfirmlyand bowed gravely.

Go

to

"

pooh! you are losingyour wits!' he said,with

and then he burst into laughter.
incredulity,
him calmly until he had finished.
watched

'Pooh!
scornful
She
'I
without
'

mad

going thither because

quietly.
you,'she remarked

not

am

Certainlynot ; I should
with
idea,'he replied,

be the
a

am

last to

unable

exist

to

entertain such

satisfied laugh which

belied

his

words.
'

go

No, I
and

am

you,

going because
Aelius

I wish

Sejanus, must

to

go, and

because

contrive to

convey

I will
me

thither,
openly or in secret'
Oh, openly would be, of course, the most sensible and
; and
plan for me, as I am situated/he said ironically
politic
'

NE"RA

112

he

then

PART

'

'

It is

and
possible

'

You

mean

possible
It is im-

is this ?

whim
silly

sternly,What

added

I.

shall be.'

to enslave

Ambition

Caesar with your charms.

inspires
others,it seems, than myself.'
littlefor a foul old man
As
I care
nothing for Caesar.
in rags.
I seek him not.'
in purple as a foul old man
to the same
were
It would
come
thing,sweet Plautia,
you
do
able
to
in
foot
the
so ;
to set
island,supposingyou were
arrive before the ruler of the world
for you would, most
surely,
in the end, willingly
or
unwillingly.'
be my business. I would take care of myself.'
That would
Humph ! You have done so hitherto,it is true ; but
'

'

'

'

then

had

have

you

The

overcome.

where

If you
domain, in Rome.
world, into Capreae, for instance,you
of a different experience.'
I am
determined,in spiteof all you say.'

queen
into the
taste
'

"

'

the
'

are, the

step outside
may

probably

I be in my

to appear

senses

with you at my heels?'

infatuated with the idea that I

patientl
im-

before Livia

Imperialcourt

You

bound

Should

you

Prefect,bending his brows

rational!' said the

'Be

pretty,

humoured.
alwaysbeen carefully

advice,you will remain

will take my
of your own

If you

difficultiesto

of Plautia have

autocratic ways

and

no

are

to

you,'scoffed

Plautia.

'

I have

no

am

more

chained

and

affection for

for any other individual's. Give me

only the
in my
that I shall not be hindered
desire,and I
trouble you at all.'

heels than

your

assurance

shall not
'

Let

Tiberius is
tell him

me

deaf

never

you

to

want

the

voice of

lovelywoman.

there will be

him, and

no

more

difficulty.'
to land by mydoggedly, I mean
self,
and unobserved,on the island.'
quietly
ful
The guards will prevent you,'said Sejanus,with a scornsmile, or, rather,seize you, and hurry you before Caesar,
will inevitably
and there will be an end of your frolic. You
in your folly.'
arrive at this conclusion if you persist
4

No

!' returned

Plautia

'

'

'

'

I intend

'

Good

consequences

to

persist.'

take your own

way
may
you
thereof.
But, bear in mind, if you

Then

and

the

give cause

CHAP.

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

TALE

x.

113

to my
detriment,you will rue the
awakening any suspicion
to be possessedof this absurd fancy.'
day you allowed yourself
You
sions,'
may rest easy, if that comprises all your apprehenDisenchant
Plautia
as
answered
composedly.
yourself,
the pointof your supposed importance
on
speedilyas possible,
Your vanityis your weakest point. I will not meddle
to me.

for

'

'

with you ; for I have no desire.'

dissuade you, then?'
'I cannot
'No.'
Then

'

how

tell me

to proceed.'
you mean
you think best.'

Whichever

'

way
Prefect took

The

the
her

to

deep

carry matters

with
He

importunatelady.
energy, and

well

was

two

or

in

bitinghis thumb-nail
whether

turn

up

and

down

the

room,

scarcelyknew
forbid
and
flatly

cogitation.He
high

knew

her

hand

determined

that she

aware

nature

and

possessed sufficient

extremely troublesome, if she

At the same
time,her presence, along with
himself,in the island of Capreae,where his intended bride
awaited him, was
highlyfraughtwith danger,on account of the
the part of that princess,
to be expected on
jealousynaturally
to her ears, as it was
the matter
to come
onlytoo possible
were
domain.
it might,in that circumscribed
Perplexedas he was,

knowledge to
thought proper.

herself

make

a sudden
therefore,

idea

like

struck
inspiration

an

and

with satisfaction.

filled him

'Well, carissime?' quoth the watchful

of his relief flooded
'

him

Hush

"

as
Plautia,

the

rays

his countenance.

hush, girl!

That

no

longer!'

'What, then?' she asked jeeringly.

No more
!'
Nothing whatever.
folly
Agreed ! You have thought of a plan. Tell it !
When
I choose my companions I can
smuggle you under
It can
wing of one of them.
easilybe explained. You
perhaps be obliged to set out at a different time ; but

'

'

'

'

the

may
that will matter
'

Nothing !
?

'

you
see

little.'
When

am

to

be

assured

of this arrangement

'

To-morrow
want

how

What more
do
you shall know all particulars.
of me, for I am
full of business ?
Nevertheless,you
simpleword from you brought me to your side.'
i

NEJERA

114

'

nothing

want

You

more.

PAKT

free for your

now

are

i.

royal

'

Livia.

'Free, but not forgotten at least on my part.'

Farewell,Prefect ! said Plautia,waving her white hand.
'
For the last time,then,'he said,laughingly
catchingit and
"

'

'

it
kissing
'

I shall hear

To-morrow

from

without

you

fail?

'

surely!' he replied; and,waftinganother

and hastened
kiss with his hand, Sejanus left the room
away.
Subura, he sought a by-courtout of
Entering the neighbouring
main thoroughfares.It was
of the bustling,
the stream
narrow,
littleof
the
could
be
a
nd
But
sky
tortuous, dirty,
unsavoury.
above ; and the denizens of the placewere
dirty,
slovenly,
seen
and
half- dressed men
slouchingalong, or lounging
women,
into their
in knots.
Any intruder of respectableappearance
such a cross-fire of baleful glances from
haunt, encountered
whose
these evil-eyed
individuals,
loweringvisageswere plainly
stamped with nightand enormity,that,being of timid nature,
and
be thankful
the visitor might well breathe
more
freely,
he reached
when
The
more.
a
Prefect,
public place once
'

To-morrow

however,
a

of different

was

scrutinyof
before

most

the

times

more,

drawn

were

whom
night-vultures

door, at which

delay,and
was

and

mould, and

he

knocked.

only,when
a

he

had

shuffling
step

the door

he

passed.

There

was

thundered
heard

want

ye ?' asked

within.

harsh, but yet

the

paused
able
consider-

opened slowlya couple

to

He

or

three

The

bolts

of

inches,

two

a
justsufficientto afford a glimpseof elf-locks,
and a pairof watery, glistening
eyes.

'What

heed

no

gave

withered

woman's

skin,
voice.

'Thy master, Tigellinus. Open quickly!'said Sejanus

roughly.
the hideous doorkeeper,
'Nay, you must wait a little!' answered
proceedingto shut him out.
But the Prefect's replywas
a vigorous push, which
nearly
overturned
her,and brought him inside the passage, which was
stronglypervaded by the fumes of cooking.
The
old hag, staggering
nearlyto the ground, recovered
at him, giving vent
to
herself and rushed
an
angry scream,
of
her
and showing a formidable extension
bony claws.
Away, you filthy
harpy. Hideous crow ! shouted Sejanus,
'

'

CHAP.

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

TALE

x.

115

repulsingher with another vigorousshove, 'away and

awaits him from Etruria.'
that Lars Porsena
Tigellinus
the
cowed
manner
His imperious,
as well as vigorous,
"

tell

old

she shuffled away into the gloom of the interior,

grumblingand mutteringher suspicions.For the few moments
and

woman,

of the

the odours

to
listening

and

Sejanus paced the obscure

kitchen,to the disgustof

intervened

which

man

with

greeted him

swarthy and

young, and had

'
I have had

worthy

female voices.

length,and

at

not, P

Do

the misfortune

to

voices of your

and

here

entered

small

mean
are

I do

can

'When

room.

inquiredthe Prefect,with
months

Three

days ?
'

ago,'was

it be wise and

'Would
few

apologise!'
Porsena,'repliedTigellinus,fifty
not to be compared to the privilege
I

for you, noble sir?'

will tell you,'said Sejanus, and

visit. What

In

happy
'

"

families

and

of your

'

his ance
appeardeference.
He
was
made

disturb you at your dinner,

quoth the Prefect ; ' deny it not, for I can
Tigellinus,'

dinners

'

of
laughter,

features.

handsome

smell it palpably. I also hear the merry

family,from which I have dragged you.
'

and

of chatter

the distant bursts

to be

what seemed

passage, inhaling
his refined senses,

were

you
smile.
lurking

reply.
for you
politic

in

they
last?'

Capreae

the

to go

againwithin

'

at

am

on
present anxiously

Imperial connection

the

is

the
a

look-out for merchandise;

business

would

I want

you

to

not

lose.'
readily
'

her.

lady wishes

to

visit the island.

understand?'

You

'Perfectly;if it is to
'

will

You

also,who

you

escort

me

serve
are

and

fond

so

serve

you, Prefect.'
yourselfat the

of female

exquisitecompanion, since

she

is

same

she
society,
one

of the

time.

will be
most

To
most

beautiful

in Rome.'

women

will be

'That
'

You

will

come

to

obey.'
Sejanus took him
'

await your instructions.'

at the fourth hour.'
to-morrow

delightful.I
me

I will

by the arm
sparkled.
Tigellinus

The
'

eyes of
Well, what

and

whispered

think you ?' said the Prefect.

in his

ear.

NE"RA

Ii6

'

'

not

am

astonished,

and

glorious

warn

abode,
the

to

you

Sejanus,
and

ground

bewildered,
!

Your

Tigellinus,

To-morrow,

be

the

lordship

tell

must

to-morrow

is

It

enraptured.
me

Farewell

terious
mys-

more.'
!

need

secret.'

thereupon,
left

PARTI.

man

went

swiftly

Tigellinus

in

away

the

from

doorway

the

reeking
bowing

to

XI.

CHAPTER

Martialis
the Centurion
WHEN endangered
palanquin of

pursuing

his

Plautia,he
Janiculum, to

the

toward

way

the

to

came

of the

rescue

leisurely

was

his

redeem

little incident which

befell
The
promise given to Fabricius.
his mind.
He
ceased
to
him, as described, soon
occupy
admired
the far-reaching
the villa of Fabricius,and
reached
the city,at its foot,to
from
it commanded
prospect which
of his
the distant,circling
Apennines. At the bare mention
"

Natta, the

name,

ancient

porter, ushered

him

direct

of his master, with unmistakable

signs of
presence
The
visitor's fame had evidently
preceded him.
Fabricius

with

'

old

The

winds.

opened

in

his

winter

his

Welcome

'

swift eager

answered

cold

visitor's

and

he

manly face
stepped forward

and

shaded

from

arms.

to

my
well that

It augurs
and redeemed
"Tis

look ; then

looked
over-

the

and

his

scanned

man

the

pleasure.

windows

whose

room,

pleasant garden, sheltered

form

was

to

house
you

'

said

should

he, embracing the Centurion.

have

remembered

an

old

man

I have longed for your coming.'

your promise.
first leisure morning, Fabricius
see,'
may
you
my
Martialis,
touching his toga.
"

Centurion,'said Fabricius earnestly,'for your

awake
old memories.
to
that unlucky night,seemed
on
name,
Latian
I am
born, and my patrimony lies near to Casinum.
a
I was
a
lad, dwelt neighbours
There, in the old days, when
tell me, then
and old familyfriends of thy name
in Etruria,at Veii,'said Martialis,with a
born
I was
'Tell

me,

'

"

'

smile.
'Ah!'
make

up

said the old

my

mind

?'

man

'what
disappointedly,

led

me

to

Ii8

NEMRA

'But

father,Caius

my
'

young

PARTI.

man,

first

the

saw

did before him

continued
Julius Martialis,'
lightnear to Casinum, as his

the
fathers
fore-

for

generations.'
'Caius Martialis thy father!' cried Fabricius,
seizingthe
with intense joy, 'Caius thy father
man's
hand
he
young
was
boy, in those happy, sunny days long ago !
my playfellow,
Together we made the summer-day tripsand climbed the hills;
and then,while yet a lad,I was
and I saw
him
sent to Rome
And
thou art his son
no
more.
thou,that didst save his old
life how
heart warms
I warrant
to thee !
playfellow's
my
thou art the living
him in
saw
image of him, though I never
his manhood.
But his boyish frame shaped like thine
tall,
"

"

"

"

sinewy,and

spare,

him, Centurion
'

Dead

loved

each

We

; is he alive

these ten

'Then

strong

as

yet
"

what

and

of

years,'
repliedMartialis.
fated

not

was

lion
young
'
tell me ?

as

other

to

see

him

again on

this earth.

playfellows
; but I shall not be long
after him.
I am
a
lonely old man, who has outlived his
time ; thou wilt not forgetme
for the littletime that is left me
to breathe and
live ?
Ah, if the gods had preservedme a son
as

like thee !'

The

emotions

young
which

returned
heartily
'

You

'

The

to

end

his head.

heart

swelled
the

the

'

be, for
cannot

I stand

left to live for.

softened

to

strong, and

the

see

statelySenator's

vigorousclaspof

yet hale and

are

be, I hope

man's

mingled

breast,and

he

his hands.
such

friend

as

can

a year to come,' he answered.

many
be far away
now,' said Fabricius,
shaking

in

fear of

no

it,for

The

in truth I have

when

he

when

its way
left us.
One

That

it was

Hispania; a third
girlreached the most

to

malignantdisease carried her

heartbroken

died

on

; the

last

from

nothing

old
gods preserve
solitary
This gloomy house was
once
brightand
age such as mine.
happy enough ; death has reaped a rich harvest in its walls.
One boy, Titus,came
home
received from
to die from wounds
the barbarian in Pannonia ; an ill-fatedgalley,
bearinganother,
foundered

thee

daughter

"

was

left me

"

wife and

yet

winsome

child
years,
left us

married, and
only grandchild.
sweetness
itself;

was

giving birth to her first babe

my
littlemaid, Centurion,was
and
beauty
all that

was

suddenly off and

lived and

in

children

all gone.

She

frisked about

begun

had

TALE

xi.

CHAP.

woodland

lispour

music

'Died

ah

"

ROME

them
halls,
lightening

these
to

ANCIENT

OF

; she

sunbeam

the

19

sweetest

!'

me

after
Martialis,

too, Fabricius?' asked

she

like

prattlelike

and

names

short

pause.
I know

'

old

man

whether

not

'

she is dead

to me

day, and

accursed

on

one

us

since.'

'Alas,that
'Crueller

no

thought that if she lives

slaveryor bondage, which

the wretch

gods

dealt

who

with

deal

him

the other.

is

I
be

may

harassed

am

it all.

me

his.

and

grievousthrust,but tongue

known

and

Treasure

Cunning people, knowing

worked
-green hopes, have
the Aventine
other night on
was

to

dying
my
me

his

upon
an

have

time

been

robbed

the

old

man's

credulity. The

instance

which

would

life but

for your timelyappearance.

whom
One
of those very villains,
came
you scattered,
in this very room,
with a request from a supposed
purportingto be the fiend who had stolen away
man,

probablycost

me

has

in my heart.
As for
this last fell,
heartless stroke,let the
have

ever

have

the

cruel

Time

death.

I have
lavished in vain search ; and, doubtless,

through

by

groaning under

than

worse

of this

speak the anguishI

cannot

all,for

she

the smart

somewhat

dulled

fourteen years ago she vanished

of her have ever reached
tidings

"

than

perhaps

the

dead,' muttered

is

or

cruel !' murmured

too

was

lives

she

little Aurelia.
into

trap

"

me

my

nothing but a cunning tale to lead

but
fools,they might have taken my life,
silly
It

was

littlebesides !'
'

rascals would
of those same
one
my foot tripped,
been safe under
lock and key awaitinghis deserts,'

Had

not

have

now

observed
'

Martialis.

I warrant

it if your

fingershad

once

closed

upon

him,'

with an approvingsmile ; but it matters

not
repliedFabricius,
much.
fatuati
It is only another
and more
flagrantcase of my inthe lash
as
my nephew calls it. I shall fall under
of his tongue bravely
for it. But what, Centurion,if I giveup
hope, what need is there of living?'
'

'

None.'

'

And

hope.

you, a
Ah, I see

man,
young
!' continued

live

vigorously,
having copious
Fabricius,
smiling,as he noted

NEMRA

120

the

ready colour tingingthe

'

well

as

white

if your

as

of

shaven

PART

sunburnt

cheek

cheek

had been

the

of

girl. First and foremost,at your

young
which
is rooted in love
well,I shall know

'How

old

age, is the
when
more

"

granddaughterwhen
hastily,
coming back to the

was

your

inquired Martialis

Pretorian,

the delicate red and

hope
our
friendship
enlarges.'

i.

lost her?'

you

former

subject

of conversation.
'

How

smile
'

old !

About

fadingfrom
You

three

years,'answered

the
Fabricius,

his face.

would

hardly recogniseher,then,if fate brought you

face to face with her?'

'

Not

know

with her

her !

then

But

token

could
"

went

eyes, as
her littlebed.'

to

vast
a
change. The
years make
obliterates the child of three
by what
"

yourselfbeyond

assure

you

'Token

my mind,
if I had only

fawnlike

fourteen

of seventeen

woman

she

fairly
picturedin

as

brightsilkylocks and

kissed her last night ere

'

is

She

of seventeen!'

woman

as
deringly,
though

repeated Fabricius

lighthad

new

doubt?'

struck

won-

his brain ;

upon

of seventeen
'my littleAurelia a woman
!'
'Ay, truly,she must
be, if alive,'
responded Martialis,
him
regarding
curiously.
The

old

and

room

man

from

rose

back.

Here

was

his

seat

problem

simple,since,strange to say, it had

suggested to his thoughts. His
been

had

and

and
thoroughlyfilled,

walked

as
startling

as

by

never

across

any

chance

the
it was
been

this moment,
to the exclusion
of

mind,

up

absorbed

to

every other
he had last
with her

reflection,
by the pictureof the ill-fatedchild as
seen
her,say, dancing about his room, or sporting
ball in the garden,as he passed out on a visit or a

walk.
'

in

littlemaid

bewildered

a
'

as

My
Not

she

so

!' he

repeatedagain

manner.

strange

was,'observed

as

that

eyes

should

you

Martialis ;

changes and develops;

with years.'

'

stature

alter,and

expect

to

find her

increases,and
hair

changes

true,'said Fabricius absently.

?
Well then, how would you prove her identity

'That
'

of seventeen

woman

is

'

form

in hue

CHAV.

'

My

TALE

xr.

heart would

Martialis shook
'

You

Fabricius.
woful

'

tell me

It

can

repliedthe
gently.

it
"

lead

'

if I

And,

brought

121

other

instinct

is not

mother

gap of years.'
A mother
maybe,' said

'

ROME

!'

his head
believe

cannot

ANCIENT

OF

cried

unerring?'

choose

to

fervently.

her child after

Martialis,
doubtingly.
into
the world, I tended
girl

the

not

her ; I was
in one
father and mother
she was
to her
my
should
I
and I lived in her
know
her.'
care
yes,
'
Heaven
grant you may have the opportunity.'

sole

"

"

he

The

subjectthen dropped, and

saw

how

painfulit

visitor Fabricius

was

Martialis

his

to

host.

was

To

sorry, for
entertain his
not

proceeded to show his house and his

treasures of art, his gardens and the noble prospect therefrom.
His interest in his young
acquaintanceand preserver seemed
to quicken his vivacity
and cheerfulness in a wonderful
degree,
and he drew upon
his stores of knowledge and anecdote
in
which
a
manner
delightedhis listener. The young soldier
was
easilyled on, in this way, toward the old man's dinnervaried
hour, and found himself duly partakingof a meal more
and

then

served
splendidly

and

than

usual

was

with

his host's

simple

habits.
solitary

They

had

ushered

was

reclined at

table

in, bearing on

but

his

few

face

the

minutes

Afer

when

signs of

extreme

solicitude.
'Praise be to the

gods, uncle

!' said

he, stoopingover the

couch and takingthe old man
in his arms
praisebe to the
;
and so I know
gods, I find you eatingand cheerful,
you have
suffered little. The
murderous
thieves ! I have but just
from my house, when
I was
returned,and have come
straight
told of the treachery
which
had befallen you.
A fine thing,
in truth,to happen to a citizen. Nay, I will neither bite nor
'

"

me
sup until you assure
you are
'
No
worse, nephew ; thanks

only stunned, and find

Nephew, this is the Centurion

was

have

worse.'

no

to
am

the

Centurion

tougher

Martialis who

than

Titus
'

thought.

befriended

discovered also that he is of Latian stock,and

this is my
playfellowof Casinum.
Martialis,

old

there.

son

me

"

of

an

nephew,

Afer.'
We

are

not

said Afer,bowing coldly,

totally
unacquainted,'

NE"RA

122

whilst the

other

returned

the

PART

salutation

I.

in

silence;'I have
of knowing his brother more
honour
intimately.'
Brother !
I never
asked thee, Lucius,of any brothers or

the

'

sisters

tell me,

"

I have

'

'The
heard

Fabricius.
interposed

brother

only.'

friend and

nearest

Apicius,whom
you have
spent his patrimony,and

heir of
'

of,uncle,'said Afer

after

he who

dinner,t'other day,poisonedhimself
was
empty.'

chest
'

one

then !'

I heard

I mistake

somethingof

not,

tale

Natta

"

nephew, it was

there you

because

told me,

dined

his treasure-

I think.

only a

few

If

days

ago?'
I witnessed

'

left

chief mourner,

as

wealth

of

Centurion

the

But

knows

perhaps brotherlyaffection
Apicius.'
"

of

that information

For

whence

you

brother

remains
him

was

of the

for his

better than

lies

matter

'

and, I understand, what

to compensate
Apiciusgoes entirely

devotion.

'

affair; the Centurion's

the whole

how

long
the

has divided the generosity

refer you to the same

source
derived the other,'repliedMartialis coldly.

It is what

must

neither' belongs

said Fabricius.

'

You

will make

to
me

me

to

nor

know

your

thee,*
nephew,'
brother

at the

Centurion.'
firstopportunity,
4

Ask

him

to

you, uncle ; but you will have to

artistic banquet,in order to give him

dine with

providehim with a more

of provinghis
an
opportunity

criticalpowers.

Caius

Martialis,
is well known
the Centurion's brother,
for his perfect
knowledge
of the elegantarts and pleasuresof life. No one
disputeshis
dictum
to the beauty of a woman,
as
or the flavour of a
dish,
the fold of a garment
or
feminine, or the business
especially
of the bath, the action of a player,the knowledge of the
midnight city the whole delicate art, in fact,of sustaininga
continuous
and uniform
of pleasure,without rushing
course
into ennui.
His acquaintance
into undue
excess, or relapsing
is a privilege,
uncle, and you will find it so.'
host should judge for himself of the
I preferthat my
character of my brother,rather than accept it from your lips,'
with the hot blood tingling
said Martialis,
in his veins at the
sneeringtones and curlinglipof the speaker.
"

"

"

'

That

has

ever

been

my

custom, Centurion, and

there is

no

Fabricius.
me

an

Take

the time

how
'

'

"

The

on

to serve

before mine

case,' interposed
and drink,and tell

knight,as

How

"

went

burningto

am

came

away.'
hear

you, in Heaven's

time of

night?'
spoke, took his place on the couch
sinisterglanceof his eyes met the gaze

the Aventine
he

oppositeMartialis.
of the

turn

of this adventure.

to be

name,

this

123

eat
your place,nephew
has gone with you since you

No, uncle, your

account

ROME

ANCIENT

alter it in

should

why

reason

OF

TALE

XI.

OHAP.

The

at that

The slaves hastened

and declared inevitable war.
latter,
him, and, whilst he proceeded to eat, Fabricius related

the circumstances

most
night'sadventure,not forgetting,
the services of his deliverer,
to
who,

of his

to allude
particularly,
began to wish that all recollection of the affair
straightway,
might be buried in the sea.
It is very well, good uncle,you
got out of the trap as
Afer at the conclusion; 'this,I trust,is
you did,'observed
I humbly
and infatuation
the last phase of your credulity
this,
effect what
and
no
think,will act as a salutarycorrective,
had
the
As for
words of mine could do.
Centurion,
or
reason
have
the scene, he would
he been a school-lad appearingon
startled and
been
at that critical point,to have
sufficient,
rabbits. I
routed the ruffians from their task,like so many
with
trust, Centurion,you received no hurt in your encounter
the vagabonds,when, like a Patroclus,
you bestrode the prostrate
body of my uncle ?
drew a sword, nor
I neither bestrode my host,nor
even
Martialis calmly,though inwardly
answered
clenched
my fist,'
claim
I did nothing whereby I can
fuming with anger.
in awarding to me
the credit or praisewhich my host persists
againstmy will.'
with your troopersto layhands on one
Nor even
or more
of the vagabonds ?'
of
with my troopers lay hands on a singleone
Nor
even
'

"

'

'

'

'

'

them.'

pardon,Centurion,for the thoughtlessquestion,'

better than to
said Afer mockingly; I ought to have known
suppose that ImperialPretorians would stoop to act as common
citypolice.'
labour under
You
a
impression of the cohorts
wrong
returned
I have the honour
to belong,'
to which
Martialis,
'

crave

'

'

NE"RA

124

with less command

over

the

PAKT

of his voice.

tone

'

i.

If I know

anythingabout them, I should say they are as ready as any to

it lies in
and bring it to account, whenever
frustrate rascality
their power.'
Hark
ye ! nephew,'interposedFabricius sternly,whether
this morning in an ill-humour or not, I cannot
tell,
you rose
have no snapping tongue to break good-fellowship
but I must
meal as it was
let us finish our
here
begun, in peace and
is littleI would
I pray.
There
not
part with,
pleasantness,
rather than Martialis should associate anything disagreeable
which it
He has done me
with his firstvisit here.
a
service,
My
may pleasehim to disparageand you to decry enough !
in
returned
the
old playmate has suddenly and unexpectedly
person of his son ; for that,if for nothing else,I seek his good
'

'

"

"

opinionof all about me.'

for having been
I apologise
'

foolish

so

to

as

offend

you,

uncle,' said Afer, with a barely perceptibleshrug of his

shoulders ; ' I was, in truth,only jesting. Centurion, I have
of drinkingto your health !' he added, with an
the honour

accompanying

which

mocked

the

his
scarcelytrusting

the
coldly returned
tongue to speak,for fear of

filled him.

dislike which

Fabricius

of

courteousness

Pretorian

The

voice.

look

nodded

his

compliment,
the

scorn

and

and
approvingly,

of our
continued, And now, uncle,to the news
great
has
the
Prefect
Centurion,
already
friend,
or, perhaps,your
told you ?
No
I am
glad, then, to be the first to inform
Sejanusis the accepted son-in-law of Caesar, and goes
you.
forthwith to Capreae to claim his bride.'
Ah ! quoth Fabricius quietly,he creeps up the ladder
'

Afer

"

"

'

'

'

apace ; but
would have

these matters

interest

Time

not.

me

when

was

I live apart,and allow

unheeded
consuls and pretors and the like to pass on, almost
with all respect to your commander, Lucius.'

paid it more

heed, but

now

"

'

I understand

Centurion?'
'

As

most

him

you accompany
said Afer.
intimate

Prefect,you have, no
already acquainted with most, or all, of his

"

air ;

tion,
pleasantexpedi-

friend of the

doubt, been
answered
the other.
arrangements,'
'What
going?' observed
you
'

his

on

when

then

will you

Fabricius,with

return

'

pointed
disap-

'

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

TALE

xi.

CHAP.

nephew will,most

Your
tell you, Fabricius.
than myself.'
more

I cannot

probably,know

125

responded
Indeed, uncle, my knowledge is overrated,'
mission
you will comAfer; 'but, if you will take the opportunity,
'

he does return,
preserver to bring you, when
it is a
the adjacent Surrentum
from
pottery ware
famed
for its excellence in this manufacture, is it not,
your

some

"

town

Centurion ?'

enough, whilst
at

the

glance and

The

malicious

speaker were

of the

sneer

soldier flushed deeply

of the young
swift eyes of his host drank all in j he

the cheeks

the allusion.

The

not
alreadygatheredsufficient to see that his guests were
so
ignorantof each other and each other's affairs
altogether
he had at first supposed. The
mounting colour on the
as

had

face,as well as the flash of his dark eyes, denoted

that his nephew's last words, from some
reason, had proved as
It became
evident,also,
disagreeableas his former remarks.
that they were
designedlyso ; and, therefore,without waiting
Pretorian's

reply,he proceeded quietlyto discourse upon the

of a critic
artistic merits of pottery in general,with the fluency
of elegant taste in
familiar with his subject. Afer, as a man
which
lasted for
led into the discussion,
of art,was
matters
lendingonly
some
time,during which the Centurion sat silent,
for

any

fitfulattention
The
with

the

allusion
manner

to

the conversation.

subjecthad no charm
irritating
bearing of

mind

rankled

opposite. His last

inasmuch
astonished him not
the pointed
as
a
little,
the knight's
ledge
knowof its deliveryrevealed to him
his

of

connection

Domitius

Afer.

flamed

the
to

man

Surrentum

when

itself by

the

his

of

ear

mind,

and

the

the

confidant,
in his veins

sensitive on

so

the

would

matter

burned

the loose and

imagininghow

tongues of his commander

but, after

"

Prefect, the

Nevertheless,the blood

in his cheeks

question,tortured

the

with

to
potter'scommunication
easily and naturallyfilter

and

him, and his

for

this
verent
irre-

sneeringindividual

with the
themselves
table,had, doubtless,amused
This
delicate feelinghis heart could know.
purest and most
which bubbled
and fierce hostility
thought added to the disgust
for whose
in his breast,on account
of the nephew of Fabricius,
across

the

manner
disagreeable

he

was

able

to

ascribe

no

reason,

except

126

NE"RA

of spite
and
paltryfeeling

PART

But

envy.

these

even

reflections gave way to the

of his speedy removal

soothingand

of his beloved

interval of these

he became

and, in

an

that the

aware

flaggingand

the

to

distempered

delightful
tion
contemplaimmediate neighbourhood

dialogueupon

moribund.

I.

self-communings,

the merits of artistic

The

pleasureof his visit

had
long departed,and he seized the opportunityof taking
his leave.
he pleaded the exigencyof some
Rising,
therefore,
and Fabricius left his seat also,to escort his
regulation,
camp
guest to the porch.
My nephew has not made himself altogether
agreeableto
as
you,' said the latter,
they stood hand in hand ere they
he
parted; 'something has probably tried his humour
ere
was

ware

'

came;

twain.
not

but
You

worth

will not

you

afford to

can

your

allow

serious

that

pass

I have

"

city;

and

information

I have

busied

myself in

therefrom.

yet

militate between

whims,

for

us

they are

thought.'

'

Formerly I
long retired

his

over

'Easily!'
You
are
going to Capreae
you.
have

to

But

matters

hive

of

thing to say to
state, though I

I stilllive here above

few friends of

in that

one

high influence

of

the

and

large
passion

toil,ambition,and
busy
down
there ; therefore,
it is impossible
that I can
exist without
knowing somethingof what is passing.I have watched the course
of your Prefect Sejanus. He goes to become
the Emperor'ssonin-law ; such honour
and elevation would
an
satisfy
ordinary
man's ambition,but not his. I know
him not personally,
though
the generalwhisperof publicopinionseldom errs ; but Tiberius
Caesar I have known
thoroughlyof old. Strangeand noisome
tales of his island dwellingare, even
now, wandering through
like fitful,
noxious
Rome
You
night-airs.
possiblybe
may
better acquaintedwith this than I, and I trust they may never
infect you.
But apart from
beware
this,I would bid a man
of Tiberius
energy

Caesar.

unfailing.A
is not

intellect is strong and clear,and his

ruthless
the deep
tiger is not more

His

"

and subtle than his nature

dark,mysterious,
;
and his suspicionsare
clothed with the eyes of an Argus and
the tentacles of a polypus. I pitya man,
from a Prefect to a
Take
the advice of an old man,
slave,who jarsupon them.
not inexperienced,
and have the greatestcare to let your action
ocean

more

office.
the duties of your military
that
Remember
them by any one.

tempted beyond
while you obey the Prefect
allegiance Caesar
you owe
be

not

above all to whom

there is yet one
If there be those who
himself.

"

choose

follow the

If events

course

alone

leave them

his power,

underrate

to

127

by
scrupulously

be bounded
Do

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

TALE

xi.

CHAP.

to

for them,
anticipate

their folly.

you

will,perhaps,

time,be thankful,that you allowed nothing to

tempt you beyond the limits of your Centurionship. Obey
You
orders and seek to know
nothing more.
your legitimate
a
are
soldier;remain one, and beware of .addingthe trade
at some

politicianat

of

"

beneath

our

present time.

the

feet before

ponder

will

You

long.

volcano

burst

may

on

my

advice,

boy?'
'

not,'repliedMartialis ;

Fear

'

in

am

no

my occupation. I prefera sword to a pen.

'
do without loadingmyself with politics.
in the habit of
Yes ; Mars was
said the old man,
with softer pursuits,'
'

gory business
smilinggently. ' Success

his
relieving

I shall await your return

of you.'
son

Farewell.

in both.

hurry to change
I have plentyto

with

impatience,

for I yearn to make

a
When
the Centurion

he
arrived at his quarters in the camp
One
found two strange slaves awaitinghim with weary looks.
of them bore something in his hands covered with a cloth of

gold; the other presentedhim

he opened and read as follows
'

of

Plautia

ready
this morning, and begs him

to

very

acknowledgment
trifling

rendered

strong
accept it. She also
arm

by suppingin her poor house on the

'
bringback an unfavourable answer.

great and

"

his

which

which
daintysmall tablets,

Martialis

the Centurion

sends

service

the

with

morrow.

ready service

had

prays

Let not

young
slave

to honour

unhappy

her

slaves

almost

was
small,carved, myrrhinedrinking-cup

gem

of

though

he

it at

him
the

passed from the

As he hesitated,
the
soldier'smind and his lipcurled.
who bore the giftheld it forward and lifted the covering.

The

Had

in the Subura

her

the

disclosed ; it was
he was able to see,

exquisite
workmanship,as even
had but small critical knowledge of
he
ostentatious,

offeringbeen

once.

his eyes, and

As

it was

the

he doubted

affair was
for

would

such
have

matters.

refused

ridiculous
sufficiently

few moments.

Then

in

he bade

128

NE"RA

slave

the

it

set

down

whilst

somewhere,

he

sat

i.

write

to

reply.
His

remember
writer

the

As

has

discharged

before
his

her

brother
a

that

to

did

he

the

thoughts.

more

but

would
the

brilliant
familiar

affair

and

the

his

debt.'

lest

in

and

took

loveliness

picture

by
the

that

of

which

her
if

by

she

can

consider

may

that

trouble
the

to

slaves.

evident

interest

he

beyond

was

gratifying,

although
the

but

not

message

say

impression,

did

by

offend

she

cup,

flattered
to

should

Subura

he

negative

be

he

the

gold

supper,

feel

not

woman,

and

of

part

unstudied,

and

gift,

the

despatched

feelings

fleeting,

Plautia's

invitation

the

beautiful

human

fled

of

house

blunt,

"

overrates

the

say

keeps

She

it, but

To

of

back.

to

mention

form

Martialis

it

sending

plain,

was

laconic

Centurion

'

style

literary

following

the

to

and

go

PART

Roman
arose,

damsel

ever

was

soon

ready,

I.

CHAPTER

have
been
wrought in the
change may
rugged isle of Capreae by the neglect,or the hand,
of man,
during the long ages since the days of Imperialfame
and favour,we
be sure, as we
can
spot from
survey the sea-girt
look upon
the same
of its rocky eminences, that we
lines
outone

WHATSOEVER

Y\
*

formation

and

of

nature

met

as

the

humble

of

eyes

jaded patricianof antiquity.A low-lyingsandy

What
shore appears
and disappearsin the lapse of centuries.
a
by the waves, grated by the
was
once
sandy strand,worn
sand
keels of ships,and pressed by the busy feet of citizens a thouperhaps, an inland regionof cultivated
years ago, is now,
What
fields lying around
a
a
was
once
sleepy town.
green,
the sandy bottom
of waters.
of a waste
plain,ages ago, is now
But the rocky face of Capreae is unchanged and
changeless.
cliffs rise sheer from
the blue sea ; beaten
Its flinty
by the
fisherman

waves,

and

and

grottoes which

have

modern

days, and
they are
frequented in the

found
olden

hurled

day

crags,
beneath

when

their way
What

they
to

as
"

to

out

have

as

the

are

from

natural
time

marvels, when

been

better

time

lo !

on

known

and

row,

three

in

spection
inmore

time.
of

the

sea,

lie,in

they had been torn from the

abrupt, impregnable,immutable,
the
a

caves

to

if

saw

found

discovered

been

pointed

There, startingout
detached

their feet

imperishable. At

but

shipsof the fabled

mighty empire.

Aeneas

huge

cliffs and
as

in

sail

by

the
on

that of the
ephemeral existence to theirs was
Pharos
which
stood
cast a gleam
once
adjacent,and, nightly,
its
from
loftylantern upon their jagged tops, maybe for a long
space of generations!

And,

an

see,

on

the

summit

of

one

of them

rest

the

remains

NE"RA

132

of

being

antiquity

of

for

spot

pellucid

the
of
this

in

the

residence.

known

elevation

have

to
to

terraced

another,

groves

Imperial

slopes,
of

vice.

we

traces

over

which
can

Imperial

the

but

but,
luxuriant

luxury,

to

eye

tradition

adorn

to

the

it

much

as

vineyards,
and

clothe
the

speak

that

from

roves

imaginations
if

traces

sought
of

valleys

our

and,

nod

gardens,

the

the

Caesars
small

under

even

remaining

the

as

carpet

picture

violable
in-

isolated,

an

valleys,

the

are

the

to

as

Imperial

the

when

period

the

yet

at

sprang

been

once

in

are

marge,

The

plantations

orange

and

the

such

n.

hills,

the

which

island,

lovely

secluded

is

of

magnificence

the

resting-place
of

water

desired

spirit

last

wonderings

strange

arouse

whose

summits

the

On

which

tomb,

Roman

I'ART

one

and
the

palaces
truth,

of

II.

CHAPTER

of

last related circumstances

subsequent to the

weeks

FEW

Afer, with nothing better to

tion
certain afternoon, indulged an inclina-

story, Domitius

our

his time, on
a
occupy
for gentle exercise and

and took his

solitaryreflection,
which
led to the eastern
meditative way up the gradual ascent
The
cliffsof the island of Capreae.
highestelevation at this
island

of the

end

Thereon

stood

is the

villa of

extensive

an

formed, for the

most

suspiciousnature

of

north-eastern

extreme

part, his
Tiberius

favourite

had

not

until it had
complete and satisfactory
what an ordinaryobserver
might have
of

strong fortification. It stood

the

there

promontory.

Emperor,

which

residence.

The

its erection

deemed
been
deemed

surrounded
the

superfluity

in all the

glory of its
pilewellnighimpregnable

a
gleaming,white masonry
to
anything but starvation,surveying island and sea
mainland
for leagues,with the waves
roaringa thousand
of the perpendicularcliffs.
the base
around
below

new,

"

residence

bore

the

name

of the

by

villa of

and
feet
This

Jove, and, although

of the magnificentprospect
preference,on account
it enjoyed, together with the natural strength of its
which
which
dozen
had
arisen at
it was
of some
only one
position,
in various parts of
the Emperor's bidding,or were
building,
named
after a deity. Thus
the ruler
the island,each of them
enabled to change his abode
of the world was
according to
his whim, or oftener,perhaps, to the workings of his subtle,
it claimed

mistrustful

spirit.

Leaving this favoured retreat of the Emperor on

distance further along
some
hand, the knight went
and
of the cliffs,
wrapping his cloak closer around
sat

down

in

nook

of the limestone

cliffs in order

his left
the

to

brow

him,

he

indulge

NE"RA

134

PART

H.

fullyin a fit of abstraction. The scene, which was

displayedbefore him, has excited the raptures of gazers of all
more

But
ages.
be able to

it was

the

it at

see

embellished

was

the citizens of

wealth,and
had

cruellydefaced

the

fulness

melancholy-famous

most

ere

empire in

loveliness

it for

ever.

cliffs upon
which
the
knight rested,that a stone, flung from

Roman

him, would
Thence, from
in the

an

to
antiquity

its natural

when
brightest,

were
precipitous

So
the

its

by

of its power
and
eruptionof nature

better fortune of those of

have

the

dropped plumb

this

matchless

into the

feet of

beside
below.

waters

point of vantage, the delightedeye

which

panorama

drank

circled before it under

the

clearest of skies.
Far

the extreme

on

isle of

the green
with the
the
an

left,out of the blue waters, glimmered

sixteen miles away, together

Aenaria,some
islet of Prochyta. Scarcelysevered from
low-lying
the famous promontory of Misenum, harbouring
rose
latter,
and crowned
Imperial fleet,
ere
by a Lucullan villa,
long

the

of its

death-scene

Baiae

Imperialowner.

nestled

close

shore.
lovelyinlet which dented the palace-covered
the queen of commerce,
After which Puteoli,
the focus of the
galleys one of the most
foreign-going
frequented doors of
Then
Rome, with its mole, and its docks,and busy quays.
in the centre of the semicircle,
and, stillnigherround
Neapolis,
the curvingshore,the vine-clad slopesof high Vesuvius,with

by, on

the

"

ill-fated Herculaneum
brim

of the

with

verdure, as

and

Pompeii restingat

its'foot,on

the

waters.
Surrentum, in the green nook of
sparkling
its sheltering
hills,
layhid,but its cape, reachingout to within
three miles of our
island,forms the southern horn of the
in the midst,so luxuriant
The peacefulmountain
crescent.

with which

it was

prospect in

nature.

continuous

this

yet gave

belt

white

Not

as

along

if it
the

Turning againto

the
were

as

mar

now,

lation
deso-

for

the
posterity

liest
love-

but

from

end,

end

to

wealthy.

an

circuit of
the

to

blot of awful

Villa upon villa,

in thick
line between
villageand town, until

residence of the

sustained
profusion,
it seemed

about

the

buildingscircumscribed the bay ; for

ment
the favoured
was
regionfor the retire-

of

enchantingstrand
and

signof

no

unbroken
the

righthand

citywhich gleamed

Campanian shore.
expanded the less lovely

lustrous
was

so

CHAP.

ii.

Gulf

of

ANCIENT

OF

TALE

ROME

Paestum, with the cityof the

135

itself

roses

its

lyingon

the knight
Behind
edge, far away on the opposite side.
lay the valleyof Capreae, rich and green, and shut in by a
which was
barrier from the other half of the island,
mountain

high

table-land

the

slopingtowards

Conical

north-west.

from this valleyon

as they were
called,rose
hills,
taurubulae,
either hand, crowned
with buildings
and clothed with foliage
;
nestled
whilst in the midst,which was
the neck of the island,
a

littletown.

seat, as it were,
north

to the

and saddlethis part,the lowest point,

high above the sea ; and steep descents,

Yet

even

was

and

down

south,led

it may

Thus

be

how

seen

secluded

this isolated spot of only eleven

be maintained.
Scarcelycould
the

world, pitch upon

revel

in
peacefully

so

render

for

the sensations

for

breast

the

Although

his

had

glance

opposingshore

across

expressionwhich
was

back

the

is

such
a

prospect

the

limits of the

narrow

or

island

his

at

of that insular retreat,

himself,whose touch ruled

amid

the groves

"

interest

There

produced by absorbingthought.

well
as
darklyhinted,ruled his master
with
royal,whose youth and close affinity
them the objectsof a too jealouscare.
these

the mind

of the

His

recorded

were

in

displayedby his

Prefect,who,
as

as

it

others of blood

Caesar

knightdid not
running back

thoughts
Janiculum overlookingRome,

circumstances

beauty.

earnestlyfixed upon the

appeared
his eyes retained that far-away
the strait,

was

pay any
the
on

their

the

be

to

of the despot
persons
ambitious
world; of the all-powerful,

heed.

than

thoughts,as it did those of the whole

For, in the palaces which gleamed on the

of the hills

to

rather

are

clime

northern

of
appreciation

the

But

lavishly
genial,as to
so

his

to

occupy
world.
political

were

equable and

of

could

with
life-long
familiarity

blunted his

sufficient within

summits

he

had

nature

could

choice

he the

had

place, where

stranger of

Afer, for whom

described

scenes

by

caused

the

of

Roman

our

man,

so

intrusion

safe from

existence delicious.

mere

But

climate

only
possessed.

in circumference

miles

the beauties which

around, under

clustered

and

another

such

to the

coast

precipitousshores

practicablelandingsthe

two

either

on

rendered

at

to

present
the villa

recallingthe
previous chapter. The strong

uncle

in the

and

were

young

Centurion

gave

NEJERA

136
him
allow

the

moment

many

smallest

jealouswatchfulness
new-made

PART

mistrust

of

uneasy
communication
avoid

could

friends towards

the

willingto

Not

pass unobserved, if his

it,he had stolen after the
to

porch, and

had

there overheard

partingwords of the aged host to his guest :

in impatience,
for I long to make
a
your return

'

the

in his

ii.

I shall await
son

of

you.'

with

discomfortingfreshness,and his
he pondered on
them.
face grew darker the more
They had
in a generous
been made
impulse of courtesy and gratitude,
absurd
to take them
he argued. It was
even
literally,
though
Pretorian had proved to be the son
the meddlesome
of an old
playmate. Thus the knight proceeded,as he had often done
before,in tryingto soothe himself; but the logicof his arguments
failed to entirely
his apprehensivenature.
satisfy
take strange whims,'he communed
Old men
with himself,
though without unclosing his thin lipseven on that lonesome
But then I have nothing to fear,being the only living
crag.
kinsman
of my
worthy uncle, whose conscientious rectitude
allow him
his lawful heir,
would
to play false with
never
especiallywhen that heir has been so dutiful !' this was
a
his lips curved
favourite joke, and
slightly. But for that
cursed
bungler Cestus, I might have been at this present
hour in the serene
instead of biting
enjoyment of my rights,
They

rang

ears

'

'

"

'

my

nails in

dailyworry.

happy stroke of genius,which rid

cunning beast,whose knowledge
life
five years of my
well done ! and it was

on
a

the
deed

me,

least,it afforded one

at a
singlethrust,of a

has

robbed

Well,

score

which

at

of

of

me

at

anxiety. JEuge,it

had

to

be

least
was

faced,sooner

later,for it was

impossiblethat both could live without

be thankful ; for
something of the kind happening. Let me
if the illperformance of the business of that night led to confusion
in one
unpremeditated conclusion in
way, it led to an
another, equallyas good. I am rid of the past it concerns
no
me
more
too
pah, it worries ! I am
; but of the future
!
too
There
are
long-suffering
more
scrupulous,too patient,
obvious affairs bungled through and winked
at in Rome
every
I
watch
must
Meanwhile,
day.
Centurion,and
my
gay young
do him a good turn at the firstchance
I have.'
and a hundred
These
other thoughtsfloated through the
brain of the knight; when, as he sat, a coastingvessel,which
or

"

"

CHAP.

ii.

had

been
It

came

on,

regardedit in

the straits between

the southern
its movements

the

at

under
run

sweeps

bent
therefore,
island.

the

wind, with

small

insect

tion.
atten-

its largesquare

which

at

the

strugglingthrough the

knight
waves.

as it went
a listlesskind of way
by through
the island and the mainland,but,when
he

the

of his meditations.

expense

sail of the

up

the wind

northward, attracted his

the

runningbefore
a

137

up in the wind, as if to bring to under the lee of

side of the island,he increased his attention to

it heave

braced

ROME

but, from the great elevation

like

sat, it looked

saw

ANCIENT

OF

approachingfrom

sail set full;

He

TALE

This

galleybegan to shake
then
the cliffs,
and it was
The vessel,
whatever
out.
on
making a port on the

was

as

it had

to

the southern

calculated

to

increase

and

The

wellit lost

flapas

hauled
its

down

and

business,
was,

south

side

of

the

inasmuch
curiosity,

passed the northern and customary landing-place,

to,
make
of the other, which
was
use
apparently,
comparatively
undesirable in every
unused, and, in the present case, more
this moment,
At
he was
as
for the
trying to account
way.
the sound of voices approaching. Glancing
cause, he heard
round the corner
of the largeboulder which formed
his shelter,
he perceivedtwo men
hurryingfrom the direction of the villa,
One
he intuitively
previouslydescribed,toward the south.
his thoughts
our
Centurion,of whom
recognisedas Martialis,
full. From
the rapid pace and the attention
were
so unpleasantly
which
the pair seemed
the approaching
to bestow
upon
galleybelow, Afer concluded that they were
proceedingdown
to watch
landing-place,

vessel,in accordance

kept

was

the

over

overheard

as

confirmed

this

know

with the

severe

the

and

Emperor's island

of the

movements

rigorous
guard which

home.

few

words,

very short distance from him,

The natural bent of his inclination

they passed,at

conjecture.
much
of
as possible

what

going on around him

in the greatest measure
stimulated by the monotony
was
of
island life. The
growing sharpnessof the eveningair,moreover,
prompted action,so he rose and followed in the same
he could do so without being observed.
as
as soon
direction,

to

The
to

as

nightshades

wear

an

shores

were

dark

were

indistinct and

was

and objects
were
falling,
uncertain
but

alreadydim,
againstthe
purplemasses

shape.

the mountains

The

beginning
Campanian

behind

clear heavens.

The

heaved

in

valleyof

NEsERA

138

PART

Capreae lay in the dusk of its groves, backed

toweringpeak of the island mountain, over
young silver moon
sky. The faint,wan

slender crescent
of

the

of

western

by

clear-cut,

which

in the
rays

the

hung

luminous
the

of

ii.

the

flush

satellite

the

the
on
save
lightonly more ghostlyand uncertain,
summit
the white masonry
of the cliffs,
where
of the
uplifted
villa Jovisgleamed with a pale illumination.
Following the
less
of Martialis and his companion,Afer,with scarcely
footsteps
and, after crossinga small
rapidstep, soon quittedthe cliffs,
arrived at the foot of one
of those conical hills before
valley,
out
mentioned.
Skirtingthe base of this,he came
upon an
wherefrom
he could see to which pointthe vessel was
elevation,
tending. Having satisfiedhimself on this point,that she was
below,he once more
undoubtedly making for the landing-place
his devious and steep, not to say difficult,
to
made
way down
debouched
of
He
at last,
the rocky strand.
by a zigzagflight
steps cut out of the rock, upon a littlestripof stony beach,
two
or
encumbered
were
by large boulders, of which one
dimensions.
the
loomed
westward
the
To
fragmentsof huge
large forms of the three detached rocks lyingin the sea, one
and passing
beyond the other,like giganticstepping-stones,
now
by these the knight observed the slowly approaching
able to do, for the gloom
galley. It was as much as he was
Several fishing-boats
fast merging into darkness.
were
was
drawn
up on the pebbly beach, and, at the foot of the steps, a
rendered

rock had

portionof

been

excavated

and

turned

into

shelter-

coastguardstation. In the dark shadow of this Afer

watchers,and as he
noticed,as he expected,the forms of some
all that occurred,
to hear and see
near
was
alreadysufficiently
refrained from
he quietlyarrested his steps, and
subjecting
himself to an inquisitive
scrutiny. The watchers awaited in
silence,broken only by whispers,and listened to the slow
house,

or

clank

measured

of the sweeps

which

sounded

across

the calm

close
tolerably
for some
in shore,and forged ahead
past their lurking-place
oars
the strokes of the cumbersome
Then
distance.
ceased,

water

from

the

and

the tones

The

hollow

dropped
The

approachinggalley.

of

voice

plunge of

watchers

now

anchor

an

into silence for

in command

She

came

came

over

the water.

and
immediatelyfollowed,

all

time.

left their

and
shelter,

went

forward

along

CHAP.

II.

TALE

Arriving at

the

beach.

the

largeboulders

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

small

139

creek, at the base of

described,they halted,and

before

againclustered in the shade.

followed by
board the galley,
A rattling
on
their ears, and in a few minutes more, the
of their dispositions
appeared,in the

of

one
once

struck
splash,

proof of
shape of

the
a

ness
justsmall

boat,directed with vigorousstrokes toward their station.

Gently ! justto the left of that biggestrock,and you can
this guidance
Under
said a voice in the boat.
run
us
ashore,'
'

the

'

pebbles.
and

now

So,'uttered

we

will go

lady.'
man
leaped on

gratingon the
again, that is perfection
;

keel of the littlebark

the

sent

oarsman

the
on

voice

'

shore,and

you

will not

be sorry, I

warrant,
A
to

forms

follow.
When

theywere

surrounded
The

masked

and

cast

The

two

fear to
to

female

land,and then helped two

selves
quiteclear of the boat they found themby the party which had been awaitingthem.

lanterns which

the latter carried

lightupon the
females,closelyhooded,
stream

of

features of the
shrank

their faces ; but

his cloak,which
he had

still further hide

laugh behind

uncovered,

were

new

arrivals.

away, with sudden

the man
heard
was
raised

his

before

features.
who was
amused,' said Martialis,
guard. 'Who are you, and why are you
'You

the

At

are

the

sound

of his

of

voice, one

the

of

the foremost
here ?'
muffled

females

swerved,so as to obtain a glance at the speaker,

time, her male companion dropped his
whilst,at the same
cloak, and disclosed the handsome, swarthy, and smiling
features of Tigellinus.
An
of disgustcrossed the face of his questioner.
expression
A murmur
and a slight
laugh broke from his comrades.
A fair nightto you, Centurion,'
answered
I
Tigellinus
;
of you
it
thought the shadow of that rock would hold some
But you are not so well acquaintedwith me
as
usuallydoes.
of the regularfolk of the island.
some
A
misfortune for me,
doubtless,'
responded Martialis.
have authority,
'You
I believe,
and go at will?'
to come
Quite right,Centurion,I have, as well as for whatever
merchandise
I can
I go at once
to my
bringalong with me.
started and

'

'

"

'

'

'

"

NE^ERA

140

royal patron
afraid I must
on

rob

errand

an

offer what

to

for his

have

of your
the villa Jovis; I
you

to

sake, whom

Caesar's

of

PART

one

men,

n.

approval. I
Centurion,to

am

go
it
is
for
but
sorry,
Had
I been
going

am

all

obey.
thither myselfdirect,
I might have spared the legs of some
one
else,but,you see, I have to look after the wellbeingof
friends here.'

two

my

'

must

we

The

there at your service.

the trouble you
to excuse

men

need

You

are

be

not

at

feel called upon

to
pains
with a frown at the man's
said Martialis,
give,'
impertinence
and vulgarassumption of importance.
then,
Thanks, Centurion, much,' responded Tigellinus
;
with "your kind permission,
I will ask my good friend Rufus,
so

much

'

'

whom

there,to go

see

Singlingout
took

aside

him

on

my

certain

and

errand.'
from

man

imparted

his

amongst

the

guard,he

injunctions.

The

man

In which
turned
round
and said :
departed,and Tigellinus
palacedoes Caesar rest at present, Centurion ?'
In the villaof Neptune,'returned Martialis briefly,
turning
'

'

to

leave the shore.

'

'

The

villa of
luck !

!' echoed

Neptune
Of

other,with

the

grimace.

when

I come
on
shore, I must
course,
my
needs find my patron in the furthest corner
of the island,
at
the far end of the most
toilsome path humph ! And
the

Just

"

Prefect,the mighty Sejanus,your

commander,

Centurion?

"

'

Proud-stomached

puppy

expressionwas not appliedto the dreaded Prefect,

back which
the
but, in an undertone,to the contemptuous
young officer had abruptlyturned upon him.
'Tis the pampered creature
of the pampered master,'he
muttered
to himself, but there is a day in store for
sneeringly
The

last

'

'

them,

or

Prefect
does

am

mistaken.

lodgingin

he
This

Tell

this island of

me

then

where
quickly,

palaces? with

which

is the

of the

gods

if the Caesar lives with Neptune ?'

present reside,
last question,
loudlyasked,was answered by one of

at

coastguardmen, to the effect that the Prefect was housed,

in the villa dedicated to Mercury,which stood
with his retinue,
the hill,
the north side,overlookingthe town
and the
on
on
the

Marina.
'Take

us

not

to

the

Mercury

of

the

Prefect,nor

yet the

CHAP.

TALE

IT.

ROME

ANClENrr

OF

141

Neptune of Caesar,' said the guarded voice

heavily-shroudedfemales, in his ear; 'but to
penates of

humble

some

unnoticed

rest

and

into
'

linus, for
and

hope
but

Rome,

everybody and

renders

It is

with,as

of

island

an

live

to

you

everythingis

may

tinyspot, where

want

their business the

concern

not

one

known

remain

its face and

on

strange place,and

doubt

no

we

secure.'

this mite

on

This is not
else.

one

cannot

one

lares and

the

retire
your wish, noble lady,you had better
of the grottoes of the cliffs,'
replied Tigel-

'If that be
at once

the

of

one

islander,where

obscure

and

of

secret.

occupation
of everybody

of

to
lightly

will discover before you

be meddled

quit of it,

are

lady.'

my

merchant, or whatever he was, gave a laugh.

Spare your remarks, and do as I bid you,'said Plautia,
other than she, who, together with a slave,had
for it was
no
The
'

her intention

thus carried out

to

whom

answerable

are

you

of

visiting
Capreae ;

for my

safe and

secret

'

know

you

conveyance

to this

spot.'
well,noble
Perfectly

'

'

Plau

it is

'

Silence ; you
and
have
already said sufficient,
for your lipsto speak my name
at any time
unnecessary

still

"

less in this spot

Come, let us dallyhere no longer.'
'
I will but give a few directions to these fellows concerning
the

landing of
with you

the

lady and
No

item

Afer, who
whatever

of

had

circumstances.

in

one

I will proceed

of the

her maid.

all this

escaped the keen senses

with
varied his positionin accordance
Every outspoken word he had heard,

what

the

had

he

the
and

revealed,he had

witnessed, and

still

more

he lost no
unexpected visitor,
path taken by the females and their

for such

followingup

of

scene

the furtive flash of the lanterns had

duly observed.
Surprised with
puzzledto account
time

then

he spent a minute
coastguards,
Then
he intimated
he was
ready,and proceeded
before
the
venturou
adfollowed
described,
by
steps

to

conversation.
up

and
to-night,

speedily.'

Steppingup
in

merchandise

my

an

escort.
'

might

have

known

that

yon

galley bore

something

NE/EKA

142

'

but
a

in

brave

whether

is here

she

remains

own,

linus
his

be

to

Caesar's

on

smack

to

billing

and

cooing

But,

whatever

presence.

with

wonderfully

be

in

comes

it

Prefect's,

she

risk

such

by
to

will

Time

her

Tigel-

hardly

seems

but

or

worthy

would

n.

Capreae,

She

sweetheart

reason,

in

along,

know

the

of

royal

arrangement.

sly
?

the

or

Sejanus

the

went

to

presence

his

he

here

seems

account,

with

the

her

Tiberius.

of

seems

brings
she

The

seen.

the

on

and

however,

company,

as

ashore

'What

of.

himself

to

skip

to

undreamt

thing

was

murmured

Plautia

fair

the

for

he

her,'

about

strange

PA

agree
show

soon

everything.'
climbed

Having
minutes

Capreae,
them

to

back

to

formed

face

the

coast-line.

of

the

they

their

had

by

his

jackal

he

off

also

to

the

two

out

came

the

when,

very

lion,' he

his

and
way

snug
said.

extreme

flat -roofed

nestling

behind

after

toward

of

lapse

the
and

who

knight,

rapidly

went

retreat,

entered

merchant
The

females.

alone,

wended
'

lodging.
is

self-designated

and

which

it.

behind

up

more

the

low,

and

gardens,

once

to
a

upon

caused

cliffs

steep

proceeded

the

waited,

steps,

Tigellinus
gloom,

rose

knock,

followed

and

the

to

suddenly

fruit-trees

sharp

rather

Tigellinus

which

hill

or

came

by

the

minutes,
the

shore,

them

of

town

left, which

led

turn

few

very

little

the

the

to

This

above,
of

verge

swerved

houses.

south

house,

dogged

he

the

the

After

in

avoid

flanked

house,

the

Tigellinus

road

level
the

upon

when

where

edge,

them

brought

the

to

up

now

past

town,
I

few

him

where
suppose

III.

CHAPTER

AFER'S

he

as

his

bent

with

idea

^*-

termed

The

path

was

high mountain
separatinghim from the
the

was

north-west, upon

the

rested.

Emperor

He,

furthest

he
proper
him
row

his destination.

and
he

His

of the unseasonable

Within

which

the

jackal,
Tigellinus

commanded

with

some

For

that

purpose
to the Marina
a

seemed

villa of the

shift part of the

to

descended

word
as

the

shoulders.

other

some

authoritywith the fisherman

he was
obeyed, although with
account

of

verge

passed through the town

the north side,where
on
to

of

movements

therefore,decided

of his toil upon

burden

the

to

shrewdly correct, for

the villa of
further
delay towards
There
far from
being an easy one.
him
and
barrier towering above
which
table-land,
sloped towards the

without

steps

Neptune.

regard
him, was

boatman

to carry

as

to

much

coastguard, since
of grumbling on

the

amount

darkness.

pulled into land and

depositedhis passenger on a small ledge chiselled out of the
rock.
of steps to the
Therefrom
a flight
Tigellinusascended
level ground above, where, nigh at hand, loomed
the walls of
the villa Neptune.
In the rear
its gardens surrounded
of the palace were
by
wall.
a
Tigellinus,
evidentlyfamiliar with the premises,went
to a small side door
therein,where he received a sharp
straight
to halt,from a sentinel who
summons
paced in front fullyarmed.
What, Siccius,not know an old friend ? quoth Tigellinus,
with a laugh ; or must
I show
my signet?
here
Ho
! ho !
replied the soldier,peering close ;
have you dropped from ?
You
on
come
again ! Where
one,
all of a sudden, out of the darkness, like a ghost. Have
you
an

hour's

row

the

boatman

'

'

'

'

'

'

flown

or

swum

'

'

NE"RA

144

'

Neither, Siccius.

How

I'AitT

things with

arc

all in

you

n.

the

island?'
'

Prettywell
is

He

came.
'

goingto

I have

spreads,as

us

Good, then

'

We

shall

inside

I will go

you

the

depends
the

but do you happen

stale,

evening?'
complaint,and

no

see

the talk and

It

of Tiberius.'
to

know

how

if the weather

is foul it

rule,pretty fast.'

'

'

stir since the Prefect

this

runs

heard

bustle and

be the son-in-law

ay ! that grows

Ay,

Caesar's humour
'

triflemore

later

Good-night,Siccius !
on,'pleaded the sentinel,to
'

'

of Rome

news

; if I

in.

?'

will,'returned

can

Rome

sweet

"

tell

Tigellinus,
going
gardens he reached a

door.

Passing through the

from which two or three
long and loftyporticoof two stories,
doors
sentinels were
more
on
opened. Two
guard here,
underneath
the portico,but perceiving
who
the visitor was,
they merely exchanged a few whispered words with him.
which
into a
led him
Tigellinuschose one of the entrances
into a court, open
thence
the sky, and
to
narrow
passage,
surrounded
by offices. The kitchen,in one corner, with its
the adjacentservants' hall,as well as other open
blazingfires,
of lightinto the central space, in
doors, threw their stream
aid of the various
To

and

fro

torches
this

across

in the execution

beside

court

busy

chatter.

assembled
The

cooks

stuck

were

of their duties.

were
responsibility,

laugh and

which

slaves

around

passed

and

the walls.

repassed

Others,free for the time from

in the
were

servants'

from
resting

hall, full of
their labours

disorder of their
fires,amid the yet uncleared
of equally idle
apparatus, and, together with a company
scullions and waitingslaves,
were
busilyand pleasantly
engaged
in

their

nibblingat

the

fragments of
These
signs did

dainties

returned

from

the

not
Imperialtable.
escape the keen-witted
Tigellinus,who concluded, therefrom, that the business of
Caesar's evening repast had come
After scanning
end.
to an
the faces inside the various offices he quittedthe court
by
domestics
a short
meeting one or two more
passage on the left,
the way, each bearing a load of table furnishments.
on
By
these he was
on
satisfied,
inquiry,that the Emperor was at
after his meal, and he went
into a peristyle
ease
or
on
open
hall, of magnificent proportions,surrounded
by a pillared

CHAP.

in.

OF

TALE

ROME

ANCIENT

145

portico. With the exceptionof the porticoit was open to

in
the sky, and the reflection of the glittering
stars danced
which splashed in the basin in the
the waters
of the fountain,
the basin was
of the marble floor. Around
centre
arrangeda
miniature
flower garden, and
throughout the whole of the
diffused from silver lamps, which
space a soft clear lightwas
burned perfumed oils at frequentintervals around
the circuit
of the portico.
Of the

numerous

side

doors which

opened therefrom,one

at the

inevitable

armed
Pretorian.
guarded by the
the frequentpassingin and out of stealthy-footed
From
slaves
this would seem
to be the Imperial supper-room,
but,instead
of proceedingthither,
Tigellinuspushed open a door within
It was
a
yard of the passage by which he had entered.
kind
of office containingonly a bench
and
a
table, at
which
seated a man
was
engaged in reading,what seemed
south

to

be,

was

Disturbed

paper of accounts.
looked
incomer
he
up

the

!
surprise,What, Tigellinus
for you long.'
'

His

accent

was

by

and

an
gave
last ! I have

At

His

Greek.
distinctly

the

of

sound

ejaculationof
been

looking

figurewas

slender

and

supple, and his complexion fair. His features were

perfectly
handsome, but a cold penetrating
expressionof eye
overbore their beautywith an air of repellence.
Yes, Zeno ; it is no other than myself,'
repliedTigellinus,
the
door
him
behind
closing
and, old comrade, how go
;
thingswith yourself?'
such as yours,'
answered
Just in the humour for fellowship
'

'

'

Zeno.
'

'

Delighted at

but Caesar

favourable
'

the

compliment,'rejoinedthe

firstand you
that I see my

Without

said
fear,'

new-comer

worthy steward. Are

royalpatron this evening?

the

next,

omens

'

the steward.

togetherthey conversed in whispers

for a quarter of an
hour, at the end of which time Tigellinus
drew a signet
ringfrom his fingerand gave it to his friend.
did
Zeno departed and Tigellinusawaited his return, which
until fully
!'
not occur
twenty minutes had elapsed. Come

Drawing

their heads

'

said the

meantime

in his head
steward,thrusting
the

sentinel had

changed
L

at

the

his post to

door.

In

the

another door

146

NEJERA

PART

n.

in the

ushered by the
peristyle.Through this Tigellinuswas
and the steward returned to his accounts.
warrior,
Within the apartment, which was
simplyenough appointed,
the ruler of the

world

which

stepped

without

but not

his
possible,
To

close to

newly-kindledfire of

his elbow

was

small

wood

table,

master's mood.

stranger,the

surelyhave

his cheek

gold cup filled with wine. Tigellinus

into the Imperial presence
and knelt down,
givinga swift and anxious glance to read, if

stood

forward

awaitinghis agent, with

At his feet

his hand.
on
resting
burned
brightly,and
upon

sat

caused

which

countenance

apprehensionby

reason

his gaze would

of its stem
ing
lower-

met

it was
but, in reality,

than its
nothing more
well accuswas
tomed
Tigellinus

appearance,
native,unruffled

which
expression,
to, and consequentlyrelieved to see.
The
almost completed the allotted age
Emperor had now
of man.
The
weight of threescore years and ten had been
aided
of which
by the undermining of continued
excesses,
dark and
doubtless
have
such
we
exaggerated tales. Yet
both
It

had

failed

break

to

iron constitution of the

the

man.

the result most

naturallyto be expected;
certainly
here was
prodigy of physicalorganisation,which still

was

but

unimpaired under the strain of age and a ruler's

of vicious indulgence.
waste
cares, as well as the self-imposed
But not without the deep indelible traces of the long conflict
appearingexternally. His tall form had contracted a

remained

stoop, and

bald, except
his neck.
to

see

which

almost

shrunk

was

Thus

far

might

the offensive ulcerous

blotched

his

grew
honest
age be
eruptionsstuck

pale face, was

polluted habits.

Yet

physiognomy there

shone

from

Their
beauty had
eyes.
of his face,as
comeliness

the

midst

outlived
as

of

head

was

down

upon
accountable; but
over

with

plaster,
suspicionof

this unattractive

brilliance of his

the
the

low

awaken

to

the undimmed

well

His

emaciation.

which

locks

thin

some

to

once

athletic

large

acknowledged
proportionsof

Somewhat
heavy lidded and slow moving,
large frame.
it became
their glance,nevertheless,when
to
fixed,seemed
Their
pierce the inward thoughts of him they rested upon.
lit with
the ocean, save
when
fathomless
as
as
depths were
sudden
a
magneticflash of wrath, which his minions ever

his

CHAP.

TALE

in.

for

watched

OF

ANCIENT

ROME

147

trembling. Nothing, throughoutthe wide

such unwearying catlike watch
and ward as

in

empire,received

these basilisk orbs which

the
his manner,
reserved,which increased
In

than

gathered more
Emperor was,
for him

they emitted.

by nature,

silent and

for
reputation

intractable

and
prideand malignance. He was of the Claudian family,
were
they not ever proud and insufferable? He spoke as
delivered slowly and
his words
little as possible,
and
were
with an accompanying motion
of his forefinger.
deliberately,
the most
Such were
personalcharacteristics of
particular
the tyrant who, for some
occult reason, had
of his empire,and had secluded himself in
energy

and

watchfulness

public. His continued absence, taken

the busy ambition
fruitful of
of the Prefect,was
favourable

way

to the

of Caesar.

supremacy
the
matchless
the
craft,
penetrate
enshrouded
the despot'smind?
which
light,

speculateupon
The
Emperor

had

in

sent

and

took

in

rumours

But

who

could

profound dissimulation
Without

which

miracle

some

no

of

brief moment, the secret

for one
might illumine,
his broodingthoughts,it were
idle to conjecture

solitude of
and

the seat

rocky islet. His

in affairs privateand
in conjunction,
with

unabated

were

foresworn

as

their tenor.
held

signetring which

the

out

intimation of his arrival. The

an

it with

humble

obeisance.

At

Tigellinus
owner

rose

sign from

the

of Caesar, he went
and unloosed
the folds
eloquentforefinger
of a large curtain which
he drew
the door, thereby
across
ling
effectually
guardingagainstany chance of their voices traveloutside. This little task completed, he returned, and
stood awaiting
Caesar's pleasure.
Priscus never
bade me
So, you have come
expect you,'
said Tiberius,
if
it
needed
effort
to find his
an
speakingas
'

"

voice.
'

I know

not

that,Caesar, but

him

I sent

word

as

usual,'

whose
replied Tigellinus,
obsequious, not to say cringing,
in the Imperialpresence, bore a
manner
contrast
very striking
to his cool authoritative deportment elsewhere.
Well, it is no matter whether you did,or whether he forgot
'

to tell me
'

Only

'

Where

"

when

did you

this very

did you

come

?' asked

Tiberius.

since
night,illustrious,

land, and

what

sundown.'

have

you

come

with ?

NEMRA

148

PART

II.

continued
your tongue and spare mine, good Tigellinus,'
the .Emperor,with the faintest wrinkle of his eyebrows.
Use

'

Yes,

about

was

'

his master's tone.

to !

and

left my
while I came

delay. Meanwhile

I sent

Priscus will

that I have

me

worthy of

Caesar's
far from

same

hither

at

be

to

on

the noble

those with

placeas usual,not
companions of the voyage

the

at

rejoinedTigellinus,
briskingup

I have

best endeavours

with my
I landed

'

chosen

household.
the

Scopuli,
the galley,

board

on

at

upon
you, Caesar, without
and, no doubt,
up to the villa Jovis,
them removed
and safelybestowed

to

see

wait

once.'
'

Humph

I shall be

able

what

Meanwhile

I go to the villa.
'
!
nearer
come

judge

to

have

tell

to

you

'

The

last here.

was

present with the Prefect's visithere

that he is

to

for which

reason

be

with

honoured
he has

people

me

of

"

desired, and

Tigellinusapproached a step or two as

replied,There is little or nothing that I have
gather since

efforts when

of your

been

able

to

to

be full

at

seem

it is whisperedeverywhere

"

the

hand

of the

noble

Livia,

hither.'

come

'Well!'
'

Does

said in Rome

wish

Caesar

me

to

is

exactlywhat

say

commonly

?'

'Exactly!'
stillto pass as
It seems
I will speak then without fear.
a
joke, presumptuous and incredible as it may appear, that
the Prefect Sejanus is called the autocrat, and you, Caesar,
'

the governor

of

an

island.'

seemed
Tigellinus

scandal,but
as

Caesar

granite. Not
'

not

at
altogether

gazed into
sparklerose

Is that all?' he said

in

ease

the fire with

to his eyes, not

impartingthis

face
a

as

unmoved

curl to his

lip.

dreamily.

'Yes; except that the Romans

seem

to

believe in it.'

'Any more?'
Nothing,I grieveto
'

me

to

collect what

say, illustrious; for you onlyinstructed

citizen's
citizen's mouth
to
floats from

mouth.'
If you did more
of the villa into the
'

of manner.
placidity

I would

have

sea,'observed

flungfrom
Tiberius,with
you

the walls
the

same

CHAP.

'

seek to exceed

never

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

TALE

in.

giving
hastily,
repliedTigellinus
the

an

of your

time.

same
'

commands,'
involuntaryshudder at

bounds

the

149

Meanwhile

in the duties which

fall to his

surprise.
glanceof the Emperor
piercing

the

But

ous
zeal-

of the fire.

Tigellinus,

highnessis glad!' exclaimed

your
sudden
into
betrayed
"

so

share,'said Tiberius,calmly

the warmth

spreadinghis fingersover
'What!

that the Prefect is

know

glad to

am

his tongue clove to the roof of his mouth.

fistin suspense and cursed his heedlessness

transfixed
He

him, and

clenched

his

in his heart.

repeated Tiberius,without removing his gaze

should be at the
as
worthy Tigellinus,
rejoiced,
every master
Should it not be so ?
of his servant.
diligence
The
!
Prefect is most
it should
I
certainly
diligent.
yond
beself in having a master
And
he is happy like my humble
compare.'
in the former part of his reply,but
Tigellinusstammered
'Glad!'

"

'

'

'

"

"

he

rolled

the

out

latter with

and
self-possession

recovered

glibreadiness.
permit my voice in future
show that I have an idea how the wind
blows,'he thought
already
Ugh ! I seemed
himself,as he breathed freer.
fancy myself standing on yonder cliff ready for a dive.
is a sublime
I am
or
an
equallysublime fool
hypocrite,
'

to
to
to

He
"

I be hurled

May

to

if I

Hades

'

I'll stick to

goes !
'

You

quoth
'

are

the

trade

own

"

at

least

on

this

as

far

speaking

as

newsmonger

grievedto acknowledge

am

'

mournfully, but

in the lack of
manufacture
Do

poor

occasion,Tigellinus,'

Emperor.

the other

'

my

'

not

news

any

to

what

You

entertain

the

can

would

your

humble

servant

displeasedif

be

you.'
drily;

try !' said Tiberius

fact,Caesar,'answered

'since

were

do
to

nothingstirs the

fied
may infer then that the people are well satiswith the conduct
them?'
of those in authority
over

air of the

cityI

stifled his
resolutely
Fairlywarned by his slip,
Tigellinus
watchful
with regardto the Imperialpolicy,
and was
curiosity
not

fact

to

be

answers.

tempted

from

the

secure

path

of

plain matter-of-

He, therefore,
repliedto the artful questionof

NE"RA

150

the

in

Emperor

PART

n.

'That it was
Caesar
simple affirmative,
as
had said,as far as his perceptionwas
able to ascertain.'
Tiberius softly,
'Happy people! happy city!'murmured
into which he was
as if to himself,
or to the fire,
gazing.
'Truly happy !' was the refrain of Tigellinus.
'Ah
said Tiberius,
what?'
as though
looking up hastily,
a

"

roused

from

reverie.

merely agreeing with you, Caesar, when

you
remarked
what
is true
that
its
Rome
and
beyond doubt,
people were happy,'said Tigellinus.
'Did
I then speak?' said the Emperor carelessly;'I
knew
it not
I must
have thought aloud
not
a
styleI am
given to.'
His glance fell on
the goblet of wine, which stood un'I

was

"

"

tasted,and he stretched
'I had

forgottenmy
news,' continued
stirring
which
claws

the other

drink

"

no

to

doubt

Tiberius,with

likened
instinctively

take it.

to the

because
delicate

toyingof

of your
sarcasm,
a

tiger's

'

sheathed

Romans, and

his hand

out

to

in velvet ;
I drink to the happiness of my
that of my Prefect in particular.'

deep draught gurgleddown the Imperialthroat,and the

than half emptied. Tigellinus
set down
again more
cup was
eyed his master with covert, doubtingglances.
I had
'One
little matter, illustrious,
forgottenfor the
moment,' he said,not daringto withhold it,and yet doubting
how it might be received.
'I daresay
Tiberius ironically,
'A littlematter,'observed
A

with

more
'

well

in it than

It is in
deserves

measure

the other.'
with

Prefect,who so
the other,
graciousesteem,' continued

your
it safe to add

connected

the

the compliment from what had passed,

deeming
althoughit had upset all his previoustheories.
for him to proceed.
The Emperor nodded
for Capreae,he told
Shortlybefore the Prefect left Rome
that a certain lady wished to visit this island,and, in order
me
without arousing any notice,I was
to
that she might come
I was
to start,that she might accompany
send her word when
took passage with us,
She and a waitingslave,therefore,
me.
and, as I was instructed to do exactlyas she desired,I took
and out-of-the-way
secluded
her,at her request; to the most
'

CHAP.

TALE

in.

lodgingI

OF

think

ANCIENT

of,where

ROME

151

she

out
might pass the time withthe fear of her presence becoming generally
known.'
old?' asked
'Is she young
or
Tiberius,raisinghis eyebrows
in the faintest degree.
'Young, most decidedly.'
Beautiful or hideous, good Tigellinus
?
could

'

'

'

beautiful in Rome.'

of the most

One

the firsttime,curved

for
pallidlips,

Caesar's

into

satirical

smile.
'

have

You

made

mistake,'he

bride,the Lady Livia,would

information

for your
'

do

beseech

than

am

said ; ' the

have been

Prefect's
more

trothed
be-

grateful

'

Caesar, remember, that solelyin my

you,

to keep
you I have revealed what I swore
in
uttered Tigellinus,
entirelysecret,'
perturbed
spiritby the

zeal and

duty to

Emperor's
and

worshipfulSejanus

'The

answer.

may

discover

'

visit his vengeance

!
upon me
'
'
Be easy,'
said Tiberius, as long
'

'

is this woman
?
nothing to harm it. Who
sister of Apicius.'
fool of the Palatine who poisoned
spendthrift

the
Plautia,
Apiciusthe

himself

at

'

supper

'

'The

same

'

this Plautia ?

'

And
She

'

Has

'

Her

'

talked

all Rome

"

dwells
she

'They

nigh the

Forum

anythingto

Who

'

The

have

been

her not.'
of Caesar

her but her

recommend

intimate

most

among
one

alone.'

"

beauty?

'

certain set.'

'

for

time.'

some

else of any note ? '

Domitius
Prefect's friend,

is infatuated with

report says she

'She

of it.'

I know

"

suppers are celebrated

Of which the Prefect makes

'

of

I suffer

to me

use

anything proves

as

called Martialis
Afer ; one
love of her, follows her like a dog, and

the

is fonder

like one.'

him

treats

of

the

Prefect, and,

now

that

she

has

him, this Martialis will forthwith hang himself,

The
Prefect has a centurion
as
a
dog in despair should.
doubt
it is the same
Without
I know
whom
by that name.
luckless dog.'
followed

after

'

No, the centurion

'

You

are

is

younger

brother.'

said Tiberius,nodding
invaluable,
Tigellinus,'

NE/ERA

152

his

approvingly.

head

only half of your

happen to know

'

should

industryand

this

'No, I should
his brother,I am

I
to-night,when
somewhat
proudly.'

is

'It

of
prerogative

and
Tigellinus,
with

up

it

we

is

he

But

blessed

set

is seldom

and

the

ashore

the

the

guard
dusk

at

with

even

seen,

and
good officer,

with

waitingfor

were

bears

"

legionto which he
of the simplecoat

mortals

poor

with

'

He

rowed

me

clever

myself

of

the

of

say not.
told.
He

ii.

Do
memory.
you
Martialis,the officer of the

one

lady'skitchen

deem

power

if this other

Prefect, is also accounted

cookery of

PART

himself

belongs,
must

put

highly prized by

Sejanus,which is a sufficient guarantee for his trustworthiness.

But
who
else is familiar with this
enough of that tell me
lady'stable.'
these are some
Charinus, Pomponius, Blaesus,Vitellius
I know, but I never
set
cerning
conmyself to inquireparticularly
"

'

"

the matter.
so

much

got

interest I would

It

little

matters

what

'

air,

would

have

have

business

seem

scarce

to know

taken
have

to

you
doubt,is the chief

else is there of interest about

savoury suppers ?
captivatingis she wise or witty?

that

no

tion
attrac-

Are

her

to

manners

'

"

some

she

have

in addition

her

her

and

those

with
H'm, in truth,Caesar,'said Tigellinus,
'

that

say
is

one

one

thing

woman

whom

only been
confidentlysay
haughty temper
You

'

\i is my

are

some
no

one

another,but

that

she

such

as

no

is

woman

I should

not

hesitating

told

am

properlyfathom, so

can

she be
prove whether
in her company
from Rome

her loveliness there is

'

and

can

have

But

that you
it my
made

no
lady,herself,

The

her comeliness
free and

"

alreadynamed.
"

I known

information.'

more
'

Had

too

of
care

free

or

but
hither,

I would

and
ability,
to

not.

with

get foul of.

Of

doubt.'

judge, my Tigellinus.'
or
profession,
part of it,so

please you,

trious,'
illus-

repliedthe other,with a smirk.

The
trayed
lips of Caesar deigned a faint smile, and he befurther curiosity
of Plautia's visit.
to the reason
as
his informant
was
ance.
obligedto admit his complete ignor-

'

recommend

I should

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

TALE

nr.

ciiAi'.

nevertheless,'
quoth

to tell me,

you

153

coldlyand mercilessly.
that I do not know,' proI swear
to the gods, illustrious,
tested
had I any
with vehemence
and trepidation
Tigellinus
;
I would
knowledge I would not, nor dare I,hide it from you
Caesar
'

'

"

have

no

doing

for

cause

What

so.

coming is,perhaps,only known

nothing which

observed

have

I will endeavour

But

to bid

proper
'

however,

get

to

herself and

me.'

the Prefect.

'Noble

what

In

it seems,
be left to

be undisturbed
Suburan

you

'

faintly.

frowned.

I say where have

In the house
of

cliffsunder

sight;

'

part of the island have

ejaculatedthe

Caesar?'

Tiberius

'

information

some

any suspicion.
if Caesar thinks

give me

could

put her, in order that she may

'

the Prefect.

to

returned
Tiberius,musing ;
consider,'
be easily
doubt may
and no
explained,

will

to

her and

to

is for her

there

cause

left this

you

named

one

?'

woman

Tucca,

the hill of the villa of Mars.

there

at

the

edge

It is almost

of the

hid from

dwellingsat hand, so that it seemed to me

to be as serviceable for the purpose
as
any.'
No doubt,'
observed the Emperor;
but had it been under
the villa of Mercury it would
have been more
convenient for
are

no

'

'

those concerned.'
There

was

to

knock

'

'

I will
And

summon

now,

the

door, and

enter, the sentinel made

the arrival of
Caesar's

at

demeanour
him

directly let
"

best
Tigellinus,

will let these matters

made
Tigellinus

voice

and

of
a

ours

low

the

and

most

receiving
permission

his appearance,

courier with

on

and

nounced
an-

despatches.

betrayedevident

interest.

him

he said.

be

at

hand/

discreet of servants,we

rest until to-morrow.'

obeisance and

withdrew.

He

went

and disappeareddown
the
spacious peristyle,
by which he had arrived,toward the quarters of
household
where he held a largely
attended levee,as
staff,
across

newest

The

arrival from

passage,
the
the

Rome.

Emperor stepped to the door, and, slightly

opening it,
himself of his vassal's complete
peered through to assure
the sound
of steps had completely died
departure. When
and then returned
his seat.
to
away, he clapped his hands

NEMRA

154

In

the

steward

Greek
'

the

seconds

few

Zeno

Know

the

at

with

if

know,

possible,

is

persons

especially,

And,
friend,
'

'

as

I
If

prolific

tablets

By

the

packet
serious

affirmative.

of

the

in

there

here

together

secret,

to

wish

on

Tiberius.

demanded

described

her

standing

Tucca,

Mars?'

arrived

me

wish

know

to

to

all

her

"

nor

the

be

be

must

and

it

must

else

one

any

matter

the

know

must

confined

to

whoever

spy,

he

Tigellinus,

from

kept

answered

perfectly,'
be

to

daylight.

his
he

bosom
had

despatches,

attention.

secret

that
three
be.

may
your

good

and
and

will
the

call

the

which

he

darkness

more

!'
took

to

courier

the

find

courier

Emperor

proceeded

finished
to

Zeno.

you

and

Go,

vanished,

Greek

of

the

is

she

desires

than

time

face

know.'

she

from

of

have

yourself,

understand

The

named

handsome

hill

she

and

myself,

"

in

to

why

watched,

one

female

Neither

movements.

she

the

wish

slave.

of

young

and

of

replied

is

There

'

house

foot

steward

The

figure

n.

entered.

the

you

cliffs

slender

PART

make

entered,

immediately

small

some

few

notes.

bearing
turned

his

IV.

CHAPTER

clothed
which
weed
SUSPICION
island of Capreae.
It penetrated
was

as

The

or

grove.
it is loaded with

cavern,

the

very

air

the

was

time

at the
electricity

an

for each

ear

sayingworth

the

of

thunderstorm.
the

peering eye

pass unnoticed
rocks.
There
was
sea-girt

circuit of those

narrow

of

of hill,
nook
every
charged with its essence,

Every tiny leaf that nestled to the ground was

Little or nothing could hope to
of an Argus.
within

face

an
repeating,

eye

for each

ment
move-

noting, and all finallyflowed into the channel

the ready
of Caesar.
To
which led to the dark, deep mind
of the ambitious,plottingPrefect also,in his villa of Mercury,
ear
perched on the conical hill overlookingthe Marina, the
of the isle did not fail
mysterious whisperingsand rumours
there of Plautia remaining
float.
What
to
hope then was
worth

secret

The

spot in

cottage of

Capreae, before

circumstances

became

Tucca

the dawn
in

related

the

the

of
last

curiouslyregarded
the morning followingthe
chapter. Invisible eyes
most

watched

of the ancient cur,

a
movement
it,so that not even
which
missed, nor the flightof a
lay before the door, was
pigeon from the flock which perched on the roof.
The
house was
small one
almost facingthe south, and,
a
With
its left
consequently,looking nearlyfull upon the sea.
of Capreae and
the town
to
across
eye, as it were, it looked
the face of the island slopingup to the eastern
cliffs. To
the
righthand there was no path, nor yet foothold,for anything
but a bird of the air,and
few yards further on, the crags
a
descended
the

sheer

into the

house, forming

above, the

walls

the

of

sea.

These

side of the

the

villa of

crags

hill,
upon
Mars.

rose

up

which

Thus,

above

gleamed,
it

may

be

NE"RA

156

far round

perched as
possible.

Tucca, the
with

the

and

owner

lived alone

who

man,

head

had, for
outside,seaward

dwellingof

that the

seen

PART

Tucca

occupierof

with

his wife.

nearlybald, and

hill

face of the

this abode,
He

been

reason,

some

was

ii.

old

an

was

small

man,

withered
sharp features,

had

as

and

He
wrinkled.
was
evidentlyvery aged, but of
prodigiously
that spare, wiry toughness of body which best defies time.
He

did

not

seem

to

garments might have

be
been

His
clean in person.
scrupulously
worn
nightand day for months, by

their greasy surfaces and obstinate creases, whilst the leatherof being engrained
like folds of his face had the appearance
and
with dirt. He derived his livelihood from wine-growing

otherwise
had

had

frame.

his arduous

the ground, and

tilling
the effect of
His

tenement

impartinga stoop
stretched

from

his

to

the

toil
lifelong
slightdried-up

and

left of his house

along the path which led to the town, and his vines,likewise,
far as sufficientsoil
reached upward, draping the hillside,
as
could be gatheredtogetherto give them sustenance.
had made, no doubt, the best choice possible
Tigellinus
for the
Roman
on
hill,

required,when he led the beautiful young

purpose
lady hither to this spot, hidden away half round a
foot could
far as a human
the brink of the cliffs,
as

venture; but,

as

no

previousnotice

had

been

made

to

its

of the unexpected honour about to be conferred upon

resident,
siderably
him, the ancient husbandman
was, as might be expected,confrom Tigellinus
A
startled.
few whispered words
in his ear,

however, charmed

the

away

astonished

and

ill-

mistrustful eyes, and he

tempered expressionof his restless,
became
readiness,compliance, and amiabilityitself. The
she
scornful bearing of his visitor,
as
haughty and even
head
him
to
from
and scanned
glanced around her lodging,
his old heart with gratefulhave warmed
to
ness,
foot,might seem
so
deep was his obeisance,and so great was the grimace
His wife,as lean
his face.
he contorted
of joy with- which
and

withered

as

himself,had

hard

time

of

it for

space ;
comfortable

for the
made
all arrangements were
but, finally,
and the household sank into sleep
of the visitors,
bestowment
and

oblivion.
The

followingmorning, as day

was

Tucca
breaking,

came

CHAP.

iv.

into the

of his house

out

did

favour

not

Hence

he

ness.

OF

TALE

at

air.

raw

time,but

any

of fruit

littlegrove

Water

in

element

an

was

the left flank of the

house, and through this he directed his steps,more

perceptionof

due

than

where

he

he

of semi-wakeful-

state

covered

trees

157

thus early.
particularly

more

his work

proceeded to

ROME

ANCIENT

going.

was

instinct

by
In

midst

the

arbour,or summer-house, in a state of bad repair,

and ease, with which
being a structure designed for ornament
Tucca
had no
Its frame, in fact,was
sympathy whatever.
mainlyheld togetherby the twiningcreepers, which thickly
enwrapped it,and almost hid the doorway from view. As
the old husbandman
thrust
was
passed close by this,an arm
amid
the creepers, and the hand thereof grasped
forth from
him
Tucca, startled out of his comatose
by the shoulder.
mixed
with
state, gave vent to a yelp of surprise,
very largely
fear,but it was lost within the gloom of the arbour whither he
was
dragged.
there

to

was

an

Good

be

as

rich

his confused

or

people say

as

are

; you

out

betimes ; you deserve

are.'

you

his captor ; but the gloom, combined

with
faculties,
prevented him from making anything

gazed at

Tucca

out

Tucca

morrow,

figureclothed in a long cloak

burnoose,which well-nighenveloped

peaked hood,

and

save

the

face

well

as

as

the head.
'

Who

response
'

are

of the

am

and

you

one

what

do

you

want

'

the natural

was

wine-grower.
know, and

you

here

am

to

see

on

you

ticular
par-

business.'
'

and

You

some

the

myself,'was
such

as

know,

but this is

strange time

lie in wait ; I don't like the look of it

'
Come
into the dayshort,crusty answer.
light,
far ! '

it is,so

No,' repliedthe figure,holding him

stayinghere until
ought to

we

have

finished.'

your

voice.'

know

'

'

I told you that I

Then
why in the

'

one

strange place to

'

be

may

am

name

known

to

back ;

'

prefer

you.'

of the furies do

you

not

show

me

'

your face ?
'
I will,
gossip;
two

but, firstof all,a

visitorslast night?
'

few words.

You

received

158

NEMRA

!' said the old man,

'

Eh

'

I say you

received

kept his hand

and he eyed
girdle,

his
a

moment,
Well ?

'

It's none

'

'

night

women.'

two

"

upon the handle of a knife stuck in

his questionerkeenly in silence for

spoke.

sharply.

of your business
tell you.'

will have

You

visitorslast

said the other

I'llnot

not"

n.

start.

if to think twice before he

as

'

givinga

two

Tucca

PART

tell me

whether

I did

than that

or

whether

I did

'

!
look,old man
Tucca's
visitor stepped towards
the doorway, where
his
face might meet
the fast-increasing
and he threw back
light,
ancient legs of the
the ample burnoose
from his head.
The
became
He
wine-grower shook beneath him.
fullyawake ;
for the classic face of Zeno, the Emperor's steward, looked
down
him, as perfectand beautiful as if sculpturedin
upon
tinted marble, but with the cold, metallic eyes which
were
fatal to all accompanying grace.
It is my worshipful
Zeno ! exclaimed Tucca, with gestures
of abject humilityand
apology. Pardon, noble Zeno ; but
to

more

"

'

'

'

could

how
hood
old ?
"

your face

over

But

no, I

why

mean

know

servant

your

and

"

"

"

lightand

with that

seventy-five
eyes too
years
into
earlyin the cold ? Come

so

what

"

in this

with my

here

come

you

"

old

can

do

Tucca

to

serve

your

worship?'
'Thank
house

esteem

your

love

and

meaning smile,
since you
to

of

'

'

go in
ah
Well
"

"

'

No

and

matter

be

convenient

for you,
I thoughtit best

your roof.
first before

intruder,unwelcome
hardly fit to receive

as

the chance

ran

it

might

be.

you

"

at

this time of

'

or

the
that,'said Zeno, interrupting

old

confused

not

'

order

for

of doors

an

it is

nothing in

day

it would

out

now
"

me.

guests beneath

harbour

we

so

for

I knew

speak with you

making myself

Shall

thought fit to go into your

without an
invitation,
knowing
But,'continued Zeno, with a
I

Had

you, Tucca.
I would
have done

'

man

only want

seat

and

ing
stammera

draught

of wine.'
'

Then

wait

straightenup
Tucca, turningto
will

minute

only one
and

make

trot out

until I tell my wife,and she

returned
tidyfor your worship,'

of the arbour.

CHAP.

Not

fool,did

the

said he
fast,'

so

know

I not

for

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

caught him by

Zeno
'

TALE

iv.

159

arm.
'

my mind.
had those I

surety that you

of within your house, your

very
written
it to me, as plainly
as

Old

changed

have

have

would

manner

speak

revealed

parchment tellingthe

same.

'

you deny it ?
'
Most worshipful

Do

'

'

began

imploringly.

Tucca

'

you deny, I say ?

Why do you ask me ? What can it be
with a show of resistance.
wine-grower,
Do

'

'

'

To

me

nothing! responded

"

the

to

you

'

steward, with

said the

grim

smile ; I am
only one of the tiger's
paws to be stretched out
will. It rests upon you at present, Tucca, so be
at the tiger's
wise.
I have come
from
the villa of Neptune this morning
'

straight.'
'

with

me

'

dealt well
easy with me, for you have
whined
the perplexedand terrifiedold man.
far,'

Good

Zeno, be
so

You

incline

Tell

so.

the way
!

me

'

most

said Zeno,

calculated

to

ingly
pointingmean-

the house.

towards
'I

do

to

me

proceedingin

not

are

cannot

there is

"

one

as

great in Capreae-as Caesar

"

I dare not.'
will repent of that delusion when
you find yourself,
about to be cast from one
of the cliffsof Capreae.
very shortly,
What's he that you compare
with Caesar?
There is but one
'

You

can

you

mean

is it the Prefect ? '

"

Zeno
hung his head and did not answer.
thereby
little
w
hich
had
the
a
of
effect
gained
information,
givinghim,
at once,
in the matter.
more
some
To
personalconcern
spy
of
the
a
formidable
Prefect
probable
a
upon
arrangement
was
Tucca

task unlooked
'

to

You

for and

prove of some
obstinate,
Tucca, and you are

are

put the

leave you

before

servant

in

to
likely

his master.

huff and

allow you
but I will take more
your idiocy,
reason

way

of

out

you

here in this

run.

Listen

brought two
moment.

corner

last

that

nighta

females
It is

ideas.

your

you
certain

to your

follyfor

you

interest.

simpleand foolish
might be disposedto

take the consequences

of
pains with you, and try and

to

You
are

live so

much

ignorantof

out

how

of the

things

merchant,named Tigellinus,
house, and there they are at this
You
to deny it.
grow excellent

NEsERA

160

PART

n.

I have bought it from

for the Emperor's
wine, Tucca
you
and if
table,and the Emperor likes it. Caesar is a resident,
"

wish

you

continue

to

if not, you
of your
out

you ;
drawn

you had better do as I advise

will assuredlyhave every drop of blood
The

equallyas well,do the

compelled.
necessity
therefore,and
'

rest

know

You

best
my

to the

same

Do

your

I know

Before

I know
Jupiter,

I have

also orders

duty to

"

your

Prefect if sad

ruler and

tell you

I cannot

patron,

more,' said

not.'

please the strongest party

notions run
that way.'
to

made

dull

marked, with

pricking
up
Noble

of
jingling

smile,the

of his

Zeno, you

coins to those who

dispensecertain

to

useful
particularly

themselves

'

noble

most

despairingly.

'

and

as

names?'

Zeno

the

same

'

make

well

easy.'

what

the husbandman
'Their

every quart of wine

fingerthat can do this can,

veins,as

old

cellars.

of your

out

his custom

in this matter
and

some

be

paid

"

for it
"

under

money

it is

surely
least

at

his cloak,

man's eyes and

flash of the old

ears.
were

liberal with me,

ever

but if I could

'

you without
It will be easily
earned,Tucca

serve
'

for your

old

To

use

pay, and

fear

never

bones.'

require?'
and duly relate to me
memory
say loud enough for your ears

'What, then, do
'

good

"

your

you

your visitors may

it be anythingabout

the

weather, or

matters

of

anythingthat
to

catch.

If

equal importance,

you need not trouble to store it up ; but if there may be

remark
or
a chance
inquiryconcerningany person or persons
in the island,
of any note
to
trulybringthe same
you must
like to

hear

notice of their movements,

and

as

me,

to

throw

see,

should

lightupon

the

reason

therefore,
Tucca, that your
and

it. You

must,

which
everything

take
likewise,
be likely
may

of their presence here.

task is of the easiest and

beyond suspicion merely to keep

"

your

You

est,
light-

eyes and

ears

open.'
'

will you

And

be

at

hand, or

must

I go to seek

you

at

the

'

palaces?
Inquirefor
'

Alexander

at

the

littletavern

of the Widow

CHAP.

Paula, and

'

the

They

member
re-

man?'

of these women.'

names

all the

by

swear

and

came

ate
"

have

to

gods in heaven, Zeno, I

slightsupper, such as we
knew

we
"

It is the

since.

do not

know.
able to

were

than the dead

more

no

visitors,and

any

them

seen

for

put before them,

not

will

you

"

Alexander, noble Zeno.'

of commencement,
Good
; it is important. Now, by way
I

were

me

For

tell me
'

find

to

inquirefor Alexander, old

to
'

told where

will be

you

161

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

TALE

iv.

that

and
then theyretired,

truth,as I stand here

have

we

we

'

'Well, and what of their appearance? are they young?'

Young, Zeno, and the mistress as beautiful as the sun.'
'
his
Ah !' said Zeno, nodding,whilst a smile spread over
'

handsome

'

face ;

I think there will

nothingvery

serious

spring

did once
arise
of this matter, althougha ten years'
war
be vigilant.'
of a woman.
account
But, nevertheless,
out

'

I will be all

'

And

will

secret

ears

and

eyes.'

not

ask

do

"

questions,or
impertinent

on

you

spoilall.'
'

Not

'

Consider

noble

one,

at

Zeno.'

amphorae of wine as sold and

your next
pointabove the best pricein Capreae.'

'

Generous

'

And

Zeno

!' said Tucca,

livered,
de-

bendinglow.

this,'
rejoinedthe steward,artfully
chinkingthe
this business is
his cloak, we will settle when

for

coins beneath

'

over.'
'

mix

and

it be

May
a

I know

not

soon

harmless

why they should

up with their

man

but I would

"

theywere

pitchupon
women

and

house,
their works,
my

away.'

And
do I,Tucca, for this earlymorning watch
so
servant.'
agree with your humble

'

not

'

But

safeguardcan you offer me if he,for whom

charge,should know that I play the

what

people are

in

does

these
spy

on

them?'
'

He

does, leave the

'

The
screen

if you

rest to

me.'

guard

Hermes

between

know

cannot

two

brazen

steward
of the

was

me

"

do

only as

I should

be

I tellyou ; and
but the earthen

if he

pipkin

pots.'
through
lookingcautiously

doorway

towards
M

the

house.

He

the

leafy

started and

NEMRA

162

said, Hasten, Tucca,

these

same

of the island and

house

they may

"

there is

"

of

I will.'

'

And

upon

tastingthe morning air

thee

'

it,being,as
false from

so

"

relyupon

faith and

your

are, in your

you

fear,or hope, or

'

Dear

'

I think

and

Zeno

be shot from

have

no

as

you

if you
there,is more

do

by

at this very

me

never

in

"

than

yonder villa of Jove,

one
catapult you shall
"

league into the sea,

forget not Alexander

and

doubt

'

could

friend,I

stand

like

the cliffsa

sling. Go,

to

reason

rightmind ; but if you play me

promiseof what you would expect

not, but

within the walls

at

pebblefrom

the

tavern

of

!'

The
of which

husbandman

The

went

Plautia and

morning air
old

and
man

back

in view

voice of Plautia hailed him

commanded,

him

He
doubled

to go

up

down

and

below, and

or
desired,

rather

to her.

did so, and the stoop in his

in humility
he remained
as

small,withered body was

before her awaitingher
him, and the
haughtilydown
upon

pleasure. She looked

lightof day did not improve
the

the flat roof

were

about

shuffled

house, on

standing,takingthe keen
landscape,as Zeno had said.

her maid

viewing the

his

to

the
presently

The
grease
appearance.
softened
and
somewhat
lowed
melwrinkles,
dirt-engrained

by the lamplightof
as
only daylightcould
nose

be

go !

be greater in pay, as sure

'
moment
you shall suffer !

and

that,it may

or

'

to

Paula

ask thee this

to

hearken, Tucca, it is best to reckon up both sides

added
for a
bargain,'
Zeno, catchinghim by the arm

moment;

hasten to the

"

want

chance

'

our

n.

your housetop ! There are

landmysteriousbeings gazingtherefrom upon the marks

'

look

PART

of Plautia

was

the

elevated

his

night before,were

make
at

them.
its

tip,as

The
much

as

tible
percep-

finely-curved
as

it

was

surveyed her host in all his glory.

the most
She formed
complete contrast possible.Her noble
figure,large and erect, frontinghis small,bent, insignificant
frame ; her dark piercing
eyes and her glowing skin,fresh from
and tinted with a yet richer bloom
the earlymorning toilet,
man
husbandto the ancient
It seemed
by the keen sea-breeze.
to the
if the glorious
on
as
Juno herself had descended

capable of doing,as

she

CHAP.

TALE

iv.

OF

ANCIENT

ROME

163

sea
survey the isle and
of dawn.
silent in the gray light
'
I wish to tell you, old man,' she began

'

That

I feel

abruptly,that
'

lodginghere.'
of, graciouslady,'repliedthe

paid for

shall be well

you

sleepingand

dwellingto

of his

roof

sure

our

reverent

Tucca.
'

reason

is retired and

house

Your

here.

come

is necessary that our

wife
you and your
thereof.
'

word

refrain from

must

rest

may

I would

! if you do
island is worth.

where

have

been

stand

we

in

ere

me

house

on

oh

yon

for
seen

hill?

"

forget.'

the villa of

Marina,

the

in your shoes
all that can
be

stand

not

is yon
this,but I

to

the

dwells therein?' she

'And

who

'The

Prefect, who

daughter-in-law he

Mercury, crowning the

other side of the valley.

lives there

he
say
Caesar
"

at

present.

like that one, and

around.
the elevated summits

smile ;
'
He

'

what

and
is

of Caesar

grimy hand

up
about

moves

find him
She

there

over

followed

distance,where

toward
from

his
the

But

Livia,the Emperor's
in the Empire they
the villa belongs to
that.' He
pointed to

Empire,'she murmured,

with

?'

there,'explainedTucca, sweeping

over

now

even

man

that, and

in the

greatest man

to

greatest

"

The

inquired.

is betrothed

is the

"

may

give neither

told her.

Tucca

he

shall

we

"

what

"

Capreae

conical hill above

'

Therefore

pratinga singleword

easy

show

Now

pointedacross

She

his

known.

It

sign.'

Good

from

'

unobserved.
entirely

here be not

presence

lady,you
Perfectly,

all the

to be

understand?'

You

nor
'

wish

We

overlooked, and for that

not

the
one

"

as

toweringheightsbehind
place

to

walls

of

To-morrow

not.'

as
likely

pointingfingerto
white

another.

them

the eastern

the

fortress

cliff in the

peeped

up

againstthe sky.
'And
'

that?'

she

Is the villa of

built in with

inquired.
Jove, of which

he

is the

fondest.

It is

walls ; it is full of guards and stores of provisions

they say, and the sea roars a thousand feet below.'
shuddered
Tucca
he recalled the threat of Zeno.
as

huge

NE^ERA

164

'

Full

guards,

of

say

PART

do

you

know

you

"

of

any

those

n.

same

guards?'
'

lady

good

No,

watch

keep

They

them.

have

and

ward

know

but

them,

seen

wherever

Caesar

over

of

none

he

goes.'

they

The

of

Tucca

them,

said

Plautia,

thither

looking

earnestly.

nodded.

And

the

does

Prefect

his

guard

is

little

"

'

villa?'

yonder

yes.'

there?'

up

in

lodged

are

bulk

'What,

'

you?'

Surely.'

'And
'

think

Pretorians,

they

'Are

know

lady

not,

it

with

lodge
I

know

him

'

these

of

great

people.'
remained

Plautia
'

You

find-

must

but

secret

no

"

be

in

me

had

minute,

better

do

then

will

who

messenger

You

for

thought

my

she

be

trusty
it

errands

said,
and
would

"

safer.'
'As
'

'

then,

Come
It

noble

wish,

you

would

we

be

lady.'

will

go

there

safer
"

rejoined

Tucca.

down
"

may

we

may

be

be
curious

seen.'

eyes

prying,'

V.

CHAPTER

CHORTLY

before
climbed

Afer

the

on

noon

morning

same

steep path which

the

led

Domitius

the

to

Prefect's

arrivingat the villa he found that Sejanus had

where
cliffs,
gone to the Emperor's stronghold on the eastern
Thither
barracked.
the Pretorians on duty in the island were
he thought it worth while to follow.
Coming out of the gates
of the villa Jovis he met
Martialis,
arrayed in simple civilian
With
the barest recognitionpossiblethey went
costume.
on
interested to tell his Greek
their way, but Afer was
sufficiently
which
watch
attendant
to loiter behind, and
way the young
On

house.

aimed

Centurion

rounded
surEmperor's favourite villa were
The
fourth side,since it rested
by strong defences.
was
impregnable to everythingsave
edge of the cliffs,

sides of

Three

on

the

the

birds of

the

for.

grounds, and

the

the

air.

the

Between

outside

villa with

girdleof defence,

space, partlyplanted with trees.

It

was

which
the
were
range of buildings,
torian detachment
the island
garrisoning

by
an

Imperialresidence.

The

entrances

its

was

ample

an

occupied, in

private
part,

one

quarters of the

during

its

Pre-

tenure

as

of the villa itself were

each

but, elsewhere,Afer
guarded by the customary legionary,
with no challengeto impede his steps. In the middle
of
met
the wide
parade ground frontingthe barrack houses, he perceived
the Prefect speakingwith an
who
was
a
man
officer,
the
in
approaching
gigantic stature.
Afer loitered apart until the huge Pretorian
officer went
him.
Good
off,and then Sejanus turned towards
morrow,
'

my

Titus !
'

As

'

Did

you climb
usual, Prefect.'

rested
said

ill last

to

the villa this

night,and

Sejanus. 'There

is

was

morning?'

astir earlier in

nothing

new

from

quence,'
conse-

Rome.'

166

NESERA

'Alas, I would
of

this

there is

the

sea

nothingelse.

walks

The

Would

were

mountains,

rocks,and

the

lips in a heavy
standing in my

the

mountains

rust,the brain is

senses

if steeped to the

as

Esquiline!

insupportable.The

the sea, the

"

n.

there !' sighed Afer; 'the heaviness

were

listless isle is

rocks, and
one

PART

numb, and

dream

tasmagor
phan-

or

porch

the

on

'

'

its peace and

What, exchange this pure air,this fair isle,
of that seething
smoke, and roars
repose, for the smells,and
cauldron
Rome
!
colour in
Tush, you have twice as much

cheeks,and

your

left it.

we

twice

You

hard

are

anything to
repine.'
poet

'

Ah

no, but

time.

in the

not

am

to

the

pass

"

sparklein your eye, as when

please. Turn
philosopheror

much

as

You

lucky positionin

betrothed
bride to
no
are, Prefect ; I have
the wind,' answered
Afer sarcastically.
'

Go

and

secret

den

that I

might have

below

Get

'

I would

an

ground

should

her and

rather

beauty, on some
it safelyand
bestow
his man,

Knowing

and
effect,

he

keep

her in this

call her stillmy own

?
and live in peace.'

his forehead
idle

the

at

speech such

if I could
beauty and run all risks,
dark
night,and find a snug corner
the knight carelessly.
unseen,'observed

he

did

expect his speech to have

not

What

was,

time

same

with

apt reminder

his

hand,

'

was

sudden

he struck
ever

an

!'

in the breast of his tunic.

fumbled

He
'

an

prison,

sea

'

therefore,
surprisedto see
lightflash into his patron'sface.
as
'By Hercules !' exclaimed the Prefect sharply,
any

you

flylike

take

land
to

time

one,

ill-favoured one

'

bid

which

me

then,'said the smilingPrefect.

eagle'snest nigh the clouds, or in what

get you

in what

'And

hear

never

is it? what

lucky

word

have

I said ? ' said Afer

curiously.
'

this

How

morning

forth

as

took

to

slipmy

as

crumpled

Afer

words,

it

came

left my
paper and

the

follows

:
"

paper,

mind, and I only received it

chamber,' said Sejanus,drawing

it to
offering

which

his friend.

contained

few

'

Read

crabbed

!'

CHAP.

'

of

There

but, for

say more.'
'
What
Rome
one,
'

as

Rome

lieve
'

What

this

does

and

slyaskant look.
'Faith,I know
Um

that

these damsels

they

were,

proved

looked

not

at

not

"

You

would
'

appear, that
visit Capreae

much

too

into

remarked

I,'answered

in the

for the other's

laugh.

seem

to

insinuate

Prefect with

of

ejaculation
and
attempted gravity,

so

this

something,my

dear

Titus,'

yet it is quite true, incredible as it may

has thought fit to
lovelyand wilful dame

our

true!'
must

be

strong

for such

reason

to

whim.'

hither

come

exquisite,
dainty,

do

"

you

not

?'

Whether

woman's
'

I would

and

proud, city-bredlady

never

manner

'Most

'

'

for

"

Sejanus.

'Most

'There

even

the handsome

in obedience to her own

entirely
Afer pithily.
strange !' rejoined

think

she

Afer ;
the Marina.'

on

from

came

rather

or

to

?'

mean

something

was

he burst out

he

in the dark

!' said his follower.

There

'

much

tenance
coun-

our

Afer smiled

which

stilltoo

am

inscrutable

an

"

Prefect,what

'

to tell him

none

a
lovely entertainer on
pleasant
many
Plautia.'
who but the queenly
! Plautia here,and why ?' cried the knight,
with a
surprisewhich Roscius
might have envied.
'Ah,

"of

start

safe

very

needed

Afer

the stones

count

but

afternoon
'

the rest, I

if I tell you
would
you
say

beginto

Who

safely
lodged
place.'

are

apprehend, is only a slave ?'

is largeand its females many,'said

as

of

know

came.

then

who

"

you

said he, with

suggestive,'

It is very
'

females

the Hill of Mars,

but
signature,

no

the missive

whom
'

one

was

the two

Tucca, under

167

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

night,and

I arrived last

in the house

from

TALE

V.

there

be

strong inducement,

or

merely

I am
curiosity

Such

equallyunaware.'
such hardships,such
privations,
for a female to undergo, who

the hardness
a

man

life to be able

of

in Rome
to

wrinkle in her bed

who

would

not

boast of this feat.'

such
fatigues,
has

give five

known

never

of down.

conveni
in-

There
years

is

of his

1 68

NE"RA

Pooh, pooh, man

'

If I

am

near

what

not

matters

as

PART

! you
the

truth,as

it

you

put upon

it.'

name

fantastical this

are

morning.'
to

seems

n.

I am,

me

it

'Tush!'

approaching marriage makes her desperate. It is

the daylight.'
as clear as
!
Pooh, pooh, this is nonsense
The lady is proud ; but we
ever
thoughtwe could detect
the signsof feeling
for you, in spiteof her haughtybearing.'
'

Your

'

'

'

'

done,

Have

'What

'Are

hither

to

you

"

be

must

disdain

and

you grow silly.'

the power which can
so

man

such

pride

'

such

lapdog humility!

mad

so

reduce

to

as

imagine that

she

has

ventured

my account?'
I have said.'

'

on

Psaw!'

'

ablest minds

The
the power

have

of the formidable

which
gratification

this

advantagescaused

to

His

their

client

well

weaknesses,and

Prefect's affected

it was

beyond

to

hide the

scorn

the influence of his

of
flattery

lurk in his very handsome

knew
that he need
have

too
givingoffence by straining
proceeded

face.

the

grosslyon

personal

little fear

of

point,so

he

"

Until you

'

the

to render another
able,therefore,

are

Plautia's presence,

divine

it will be vain

to

for

reason

dislodgemy

opinion.'
'

whim,' returned
'

say, except that

reallycannot

pay
for

the

told

have
for

Had

some
a

you

least

which

slyvisit

to

? ' said Afer

know

of it troubled
Ere

now.

I could

Capreae.

pityingly.

She

we

not

in

surprise.

my

brain

left Rome

she

discover,that

would

not

be

she

sake

'

the vessel

In

of

who
Tigellinus,

one

in the island.'
Both

men

burst into

laugh.

has

must

vowed,
would

dissuaded,and

I arranged her
of peace I consented.
take her chance.'
hither ; for the rest she must
did she come?'
'How
the

woman's

coming.'

was

thought

before

reason

merely a

other,shrugginghis shoulders

the

'Tis strange I forgotshe

'
What ? did you then
'

it is

ance
convey-

ness
busiperiodical

i-HAF.

'

said
pleased,'
I do

'

and

be

would

It

'

know

not

whatever

; and

befall

will be

as

sure

how

know

to

the

fair Plautia is

her, she

her
abide

must

experiencesmay be,
by it,for she would

headstrongway.'

own

She

curious

169

ROME

Afer.

whatever

take her

ANCIENT

OF

TALE

v.

shines

sun

yon

whisperedof throughthe island,as

and

seen

you not afraid of

unwise and unnecessary
for speakingthus.'

Are

Inquirieswill

us.

upon

made.

be

which it would be
contingencies
arising,
with your pardon, Prefect,
to provoke
"

toward
the
significantly
particular
west, as if to indicate some
part of the island.
then replied
for a space, and
Sejanus regarded him earnestly
The

confidential follower

nodded

slowly
"

'

You

I
what
Afer.
I understand
right,
you mean.
I granted beauty's
that possibility
when
request,but

are

thought of
I

hasty

too

was

impressedwith
it must
'

be

it now.

This

altered,my

It would

hurried

and

be wise

the

at

of

state

time.

more

am

thingsis too dangerous ;

Titus.'

bringthe lady'svisitto

to

sudden

and

hastyclose,'rejoinedAfer.
ting
be done,'muttered
By Hercules ! it must
Sejanus,knithis brows.
hear !
to
Only think,if my lady Livia were
I was
Come, let us go back to my house.
intendingto depart
to the villa of Neptune ; but not now.
One
straight
thing is
'

'

sure

; I must

darkness

see

to

this bold
one's

cover

damsel, as

soon

as

there is sufficient

Come,

movements.

let

march

us

all the powers in heaven giveher prudence and keep her

in-doors tillnight. Given that,
then the morn
may break upon

May
her

at

At
man

town.

safer distance.'

a
a

certain

time

the
previous to this conversation,
toward
emerged from his dwellingand made

Tucca

the

On

outskirts thereof

unpretending house,standingin
the

tavern

of Paula.

herself for Alexander.

and, of

course,

He
She
known

five-and-forty
years.

to

very

in and

went
was

was

native

him,

as

wine
narrow

tavern

"

lane.

old
the

small,
It

was

inquiredof the widow

like himself,
of the island,
long as she had lived,

quiet smile rested on her yet

comely face when, after a few commonplace remarks,Tucca
his inquiry. She brought him
made
upstairsinto a cell-like

some

NE^ERA

170

justlarge enough
layasleep.
'

hold

to

room,

PART

whereon
pallet-bed,

!' said the

Well, friend Tucca

n.

Zeno

steward, startingup

and

himself ; 'what news?

I am
stretching
revenging myself,as
you see, for my earlybusiness this morning.'
said the
'She has sent me
to get tablets,
wax, and thread,'
old

man.

indeed!'

'Oh,
this looks

'

to write

if she intended

as

tell us

may

Zeno, nodding and

answered

secret, perhaps. Wait

yawning;

letter. If she

does, it

I will be

here, and

back

directly.'
left the

He

husbandman
'

There

anywhere
'

'

soon

with what

returned

the

you have
but here.'

them, Tucca

; go

and

pleasedenough,'returned

say you
'

Tucca,

got them

for it

saves

walk.'

me

very

required.

well

am

and

room,

Tucca
only right,

And

here

on

it,I

must

; you

grow

Fail not

old.

your way with the missive,or if you

how and when it flies.'
know

not

are

to
to

call
carry

more
emerged
departed,and, in due course, once
with
this time
from his dwelling townward
a stout
stick,as
He
if bound
was
a longer journey.
on
barelyout of sightof
startled by the steward stepping
he was
his own
house, when
of a wall.
in front of him, from behind a corner
Well, Tucca,'said that individual,have you anythingto

Tucca

"

'

'

me?'

show

noble
'Yes, truly,
out

on

out

the

which
tablets,
and

thread

wax

'

loiter

Now

on

for

Zeno

the
some

startled

the

securelyfastened

were

which
said

'Thanks!'

Faith,you

answered
fashion,'

in that

me

Zeno.

had

old

man,

with

some

coming

bringing
of the

supplied.

steward,thrustingthem
hundred

me

yards past

the

in his tunic.

tavern, and

join you and return this.'

at the
He
disappeared,and by and by rejoined Tucca
and gave him the tablets,
to all appearance
place appointed,
for
In the meantime, it had been an easy matter
untouched.
its
and
his nimble
expert fingersto open the missive,note
I will

from
fasten it up as before,with thread and wax
The
stock.
wine-growerperceived,to his inward

contents, and
the

same

CHAP.

TALE

v.

that
satisfaction,

villa of

ANCIENT

bore
epistle

the

his way
and went
on
left hand, and walked
of the

OF

it.

until he

on

Jove, just

with,

left the town

He

arrived
and

Afer

as

171

signof being meddled

no

deliver

to

ROME

the

at

his

his

on

outer

gate

and

their

patron

described.
The
servants
as
were
turning their steps thither,
as
soon
quick eye of the knightcaught sightof the old man
he appeared on the inside of the enclosure trudgingtoward
as
the barrack-houses.
'Look
to

'

attention,look

enforce

than

Tucca,

What

and

There

bid

Pretorian

yon
Let

your
turned
Sejanus

hastened

to

of

one

if

could

we

did

to know

stop him

the

order

to

Send

us.

ask his business

and

inside

listen.'
his slave

Lygdus, who
the sentinel,whose
post
the townspeople came
and

since
discipline,
their trafficking
without

the

least ceremony,
of the Imperialresidence
which
itself,

closelywatched.

were

The

party then

turned

their steps and

talk.
They saw

gentlyback, as if in earnest
the wine-growerby placinghis spear across
stood by,and, after a brief parley,
the old
disappearedinto the
proceed. He finally
which

led

to

'Pooh,

Sejanus,

'

the officers' quarters.

'tis only some
concern

buying or

"

?' he said

want

to

knave
disreputable

selling.Well, what

Lygdus, who
to

of

wander

came

about

appeared to

He

'From

whom?'
not

I do

anythingof
ask.'

demanded

know.

was

door

of the

his

to

building

own,' remarked

did

yonder

fellow

the

Centurion

Nubian

slave.

his master.

I did not

the Centurion's

suffered

man

'
He seems
a dirty,
up.
here without question.'

is

'

stroll

the sentinel stop

his body. Lygdus

charged with a letter to deliver to

so
Martialis,
pleaseyour highness,'
repliedthe
'

not

lodged.
knowing,

get

notice

not

lingerby and
and spoke to
hastily

the entrances

at

he does

slave

carry
mere

and

except

while

be worth

pounds, but

is time,and

Quick !

went,

It would

is

other

no

how?'

the villa.

was

is

at

Prefect

littlemore.'

need

'But
1

voice,nudging the

low

That
yon old man.
house
the fair Plautia

up here ?
A thousand

should

whose

at

he

does

I'llwarrant
we

in

exclaimed

!' he

think

it rightto

affairs without

inquireinto
I did
so
authority,

NEsERA

172
'

Quite right,Lygdus ; but

He
might have been lying.'
them when
the guard demanded

Humph

tablets ?
'

saw

is

man

PART

Tucca,

of the

one

did

the

see

you

them.

to see

islanders and

oldest

ir.

The

wine-growers.

is well known.'

He

'

he, indeed

Is

to my
villainously

But

what
'

It

pardon, but

he looked

most

He
should get himself a better tunic.
eyes.
the writing?'
the letter like

seemed

"

quitestrange

was

his

crave

me.'

to

'

Centurion
It is necessary that I see it. The
has left the
island tillevening you understand.
We will go in again for
'
Come
!
a space.
"

and

his head

bent

Lygdus

his confidant

in

minute

with the
'

No

'

No

the rear, until Sejanus

the officers' quarters.
Then

re-entered

to

the

appeared before the Prefect and

in his hands.
ill-fatedepistle
saw
one
you, Lygdus?' said Sejanus.

he

The

one.

Centurion's

is empty, and

room

knight

this

was

his couch.'

lyingon
'

had

retired

and

Warm

The

and

water

slave

softened

the

manner,

which

time such
The

cup of hot water, and, by its aid,he

the thread in a most
dexterous
removed

brought a
and

wax

bore

strong evidence
been

task had

keen

that it was

not

the

first

requiredof him.
guised.
large and bold, but palpablydiswho
perused it were
easilyassured

handwritingwas
The

it.'

open

eyes

of that.
'

fancy we

characters

have

like the

something

seen

before,'said Afer

drily
;

'

turn

of these

is very

the varnish

thinly

laid on.'
The
Villa
'

epistlewas

Jovis. They opened

One

who

has

Close

by

is a white rock.
do

not

addressed

fail me

braved
the

it and

discomfort

path which

I shall await

to

you

read

and

leads
there

down
at

Centurion,
Martialis,

L.
:

"

perildesires

to

to the southern

nightfall.As

Cenyou, turion.
Landingthere

see

you

have

heart

!'

They looked at each other,and the Prefect broke into a

laugh,which was, however, forced and disgusted. The knight
smiled inwardly.
There ! uttered Sejanus, I told you I knew
I am
not.
'

'

'

v.

right

and

sometimes,

have

dreamt

is,

'It

follow

is

It

the

at

is

with

love

have

can

one

in

lowermost

Martialis

Centurion

mere

to

the

mind

the

Who

would

the

ensnare

is

with

that

proud

it

it

does

not

soldier.'

this

the

accept

comfort

one

but

extraordinary;

very

bitten

likely

so

There

least,

is

she

that

'

it ?

of

in

thus

only

what

173

!'

goddess

'

fathom

is

She

ROME

is

It

to

woman.

ANCIENT

Of

wrong.

are

you

chance,
of

TALE

CHAP.

construction
lead

may

very

fratricide,'

to

easily.'
muttered

Afer.
do

'What
'

'

you
is

it

say

Humph

conceit

!'

to

He

said

tablets

to

Prefect.

brother.'
in

sulky

his

wounded

self-

else.

hands
their

the
other

too

patron,

anybody

his

clapped

the

for

pill

his

about

care

the

restore

bitter

asked

Afer?'

say,

for

Lygdus,

former

state,

and
in

ordered

him

readiness

for

to

their

owner.
'

we

rock

Come,

must

this

we

be

can

somewhere

night.'

go

There

now.

in

the

close

is

one

vicinity

thing
of

that

certain,
same

that
white

CHAPTER

the

to

last

chapterissuingfrom

the

sparklein his eye and the half

air during his rapid walk
an
lips,as he hummed
betokened
errand
liltle southern
an
landing-place,

smile

villa

his

on

Martialis in the

noticed

WE

VI.

Jovis.

The

He

agreeablenature.

himself

rowed

to

across

down
of

an

the mainland

and, thence, takingthe road to Surrentum,

skiff,
not
was
long ere he stood in the shop of Masthlion,with the
joyfuland surprisedNesera in his arms.
beautiful each time I see you, Neaera,'
he
You
grow more
said,pressinga kiss on her lips.
in

fisherman's

'

she

'Foolish!'

'

his fervent gaze.

the pointof her fingeron
before

'

her

'

And

master,

says

are

you

of my

are

not

no

Centurion

day
to-

for the road ?'

drawing
journey,'he replied,

bosom

This

that,for

cloak

become

is the

most

you the best,but they

for it is
welcome
to me,

'

time

is his

least,its wearer

at

said
lists,'

spend his leisure as he

speech and fondling the

to

her

poor

and
breastplate

Your

haste away.
dress and
own

your

out

the end

toga, 'you
"

eyes

Lucius,'she added, laying

you,

his

sinking her

nearer.

mean

more

And

plainwoollen

reached

I have

'

pass

in

are

you

"

and
smiling,

murmured,

hand

which

own

finishing
Martialis,
rested

on

the

I have come
of his garment.
here, foolish or not, to
Will you offer me
command.
the few hours
no
at my
than this shop can
give?'
hospitality
'

'Come,' she

said,giving him

her hand

lead him

and

to

inside ;

divine

a
'

but

smile,and holding
ah, Lucius,we are so

'

simple !
little dwelling-room,under the industrious
The
seldom
hands
of herself and her mother, was

and

ous
fastidi-

far removed

CIIAP.

from

articles of furniture which

speckless
;

and

the

warmed

and

175

The

scrupulouscleanliness and genialcomfort.

state of

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

TALE

vi.

it contained

fire,
burning in

brightwood
of

senses

in-comer.

an

well

were
a

cheered
brazier,
the door

At

but

worn,

Nesera

of the
abruptlyoff,and her lover was left to the company
The latter was
engaged
mild-eyedTibia,her mother.
patient,
into
and although
in scrubbinga brazen
a sunlike lustre,
pot
of bearingtoward
there were
grounds for reasonable familiarity
her visitor,
awkwardly and uncomfortably
yet the attempt came
with the free,
off,however, in a measure
enough. This wore
himself
who
sat and warmed
man,
easy bearing of the young
When
Neaera
at the fireside.
subsequentlyreappeared,she
ran

shone

furnish.

They

them

seem

clear

her

seemed

to

worth, but poor

diffuse

upon
her charms, and
her

the

especiallook

an
'

the

How

beneath

child

they were,

as

delicious

of

sense

could

few coins

her

purityand

sweetness.

proud consciousness of
dame
Tibia,also,could not help paying
of approval.
is growing into a woman,' she murmured

the Centurion

smiled

She

wardrobe

simpleindeed.

and

modest

were

her slender

beauty made
with
her toilet,
Fresh and neat
from
handsome.
tinted skin and
glossy hair,her person
delicately-

all their

were

in the best robes

him

upon

in the

her breath.

Neaera

reached

forth

her

hand

her

lover, and

the

little,
displayeda rounded
the
and wrist of the whiteness of the snowdrift,
to which
arm
tingeof toil-accustomed finger*bore a slightcontrast.
Come/ she said ; we will go and see my father.'
drapery of

her

back
tunic,falling

to

'

'

Taking his
of the
open

hand

she led

him

the

to

workshop in

house,abuttingon the patch of garden. On

it fast,but they could
the door they found

movements

of the

potter within.

Neaera

her father

knocked

the

rear

tryingto
hear
and

the

called

loudly.
drawn within,
and they stood face to face with
was
his daughter's
who was surprised
at seeing
Masthlion,
companion.
he said.
Welcome, Centurion,'
Though Neaera had little
need to bring you in here amid the clay of a potter's
shop.'
consisted
of
The
of
room
was
good size,and the floor
A window, or rather an
hard-trodden
earth.
opening which
be closed by a shutter,was on one
could
side,and againstit

upon

The

'

bolt

'

176

NE"RA

stood

which

bench, on

PART

litterof

was

tools,as well

as

ii.

one

or

with which
Masthlion
clay models of figures,
In the centre
fond of varyinghis time.
of the floor was
was
the potter's
wheel, which gave him his legitimate
occupation.
the other side,and close by was
stood on
A largeoven
also a
As there were
small furnace.
to be seen
lumps of unshaped
glasslyingscattered about in various parts of the workshop,
well as relicsof glassbottles and other vessels,
as
togetherwith
the tools by which they were
produced,it was obvious,that the
unfinished

two

formed
glass-making

of

art

also

regularavocation.
working clothes,and was

hobby, or

as

attired in his

grime of the furnace from head to

frequentlydrawing his hand across
brow

of the

was

bench

and,

the potter,either as
Masthlion
himself was

of
pursuit

of

colour

this action

as

foot.
his

of the

one

sometimes

was

with clay and

smeared
From

habit

of

forehead,his ample
little images on
the
varied by a similar

his face,in complexion,

other parts of his features,
Neaera clasped
from the hue of his clothes.
littleremoved

attention
was

to

her hands
for she

his shoulder

across

if
tall,

as

was

her

between

not

and

leant

littleabove

lovelypure

his stature.
his

and

countenance

comical

her face toward

The

his,
trast
con-

oddly clay-

that Martialis smiled.

visagewas so
said Nea?ra in his ear ; you have wrought
Come, father,'
enough for to-day. It is not often we have a visitor.'
Such a visitor no ! replied
Masthlion,smiling. Away !
daubed
'

'

'

'

'

"

Leave
Send

"

your
'

'

No,

He

with

farewell
or
off,girl,

on

is cleaner

me

pushed
fond

have
'

!'

no

Stand

the soil

you

in my den
not
you want
my room,
my company.
in here also,
mother
and keep the house yourselves.'

me

her

gaze
troubled

I have

come

than

to

that

gentlyaway

of

your

admiration.

on

from
'

think you
the floor?'

finery

him

Go, and

enough already.'
this day to relieve you

"

and

looked

trouble

her
me

that

over

not

"

me

of

her,'interposed

Martialis.

'Eh?'
and

sudden

coatingof
him, whilst
eyes fell.

cried

Masthlion,with a mighty start at this apt

speech. His face flushed and paled under its
tremor
clay, and a momentary
passed through
skin
of Neasra
the fair
flooded crimson,and
her

CHAP.

'

TALE

vi.

Or,

least,to determine

at

added
lightened,'
'

Come,

potter,with

no

when

it,but only nervousness

burden

your

shall be

returned the
this,Centurion,'

of

more

slightlaugh,which

ifj

soldier.

the young

come

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

had

pain.

and

shadow

no

the young

But

gaietyin

of

shook

man

his head.
'

Be

have

of
'

so

our

The

said
think,'

'

be, and

must
'

in

you

the

be

not

complete as

so

and

Rome,

in

we

will be

severance

to

seem

you

Surrentum,' sighed

thoroughlydone.

But

it

be faced.'

must

binds

What

we

Martialis.

and

Masthlion

littleconsolation

of what

us

the potter.

need

bereavement

'She

bereave

hastyto
added
lives,'

not

to Surrentum

you

will be greater scope

for your

Come

and
talents,

Rome

to

there

"

will flow in

fortune

you.'

upon

with delightin her

'Ah, yes, father!' cried Neaera eagerly,
'

and

"

then

shall be

nigh everythingpersuadesyou
it you know you cannot
!'
you cannot
say anythingagainst
in her soft,
She caressed him, once
lovingmanner,
more,

eyes ;

we

"

"

which

failed to

never

fill the

Masthlion

but
pleasure,

heart

put her off

The

and

mother

enough to
have

myself alone

bear

to

their

see

it,so

lives have

your
And

when

station
'

do

You

must

to be

your
know

we

"

bantlingsgrow

us

moulded,

husband

You

are

better than
little honour

both

young,
Masthlion.
people,'
replied
'

am

by

that

The
'Could

and

say you,
head
was
girl's

Neagra?'

I be ashamed

of my

others

duty calls

your
not

"

long

you ;
altered.
lightly

so

cannot

hangingon
own

speech,Masthlion,'said

mean

glad of it,then,if it were

What

are

live

of his
you, child,you become
to follow you, to your disparagement.'

weds

Martialis ; ' had

I been of such a
have suggestedwhat I have done.'
'

young
befalls thy

of childhood

out

ours

the

all those who

whither

Go

we.

fate which

it follows

easilyas

as

'

secret

before.

gentlyas

as

aging tree is not removed

he said.
No ! this is not
sapling,'
'

lover with

of her

mind

see

to see

as

I would

far

such

her breast in

as

we

never

older

duct.
ignoblecon-

painful
thought.

parents?'she

said.

178

NE"RA

The

face
potter's

window,

where

clouded

he turned

n.

PART

deep

his back

and

he

the

on

went

the

to

away
lovers,and

looked

into the

garden in silent reflection.

Martialis stepped to Neaera's side,and so they remained
without a word
for some
time.
A struggle
was
proceedingin
Masthlion's breast,and
with himself.
lose me,
her
new

'Shall

his

she be

stillclingto

or

lipswere
told?'
We

me?

moving as
he

he communed

thought;

have

reared

'would
and

she

tended

ideas
it is idle to say we will be
ways beget new
To go, and find ourselves
thus and thus until the time try us.
despisedhereafter,perchance,would be a crueller thingthan
"

to

"

remain

She

here

forgottenand
nothing,or is ever

knows

it matter

to her

selfish?

Would

if she

be

it be

forsaken.
like to

left in

just?

Must

know

"

?
ignorance
am

afraid

disown

of

feelings.He

turned

round.

looked

He

attitude.

fond

or

how

then

But

told ?
can

am

not

it?

knight,take
life of love

our

good

and

in the world?'

groan broke from his lipsin the tension

it with a forced cough, and
drowned

half-smothered

his

after all

is there honest

companionship,what
A

me,

be

it is fear ; for the

if she still
Even

"

knowledge would sign her relief at once.

clung to me, how would he, a noble-born
Yet, if she could

she

upon the lovers standing in their

a handsome
pair,and the one not

They were
a whit unworthy of the other in any degree.
said Martialis.
decided?'
'Well, Masthlion, have
you
Have
suspicionfrom your mind ? You
you dismissed your
have hurt me
by it,believe me !'
and going
her lover's arms
'Father !' began Nesera, leaving
The
to him.
potter held up his hand before her and said,
than a hoarse whisper
in a broken voice,scarcelymore
'

"

'

No

"

'What
A

He

father !'

!' cried the astonished

girl.

through the mind of

despised himself for it,but

strange feelingrose

checked

help it;
so.

not

He

Pretorian.

he

could

human

to

have

done

to follow
for more
inquiringly
the latter merely murmured

from

the

lipsof

it,and

he would
looked

the

the potter,but
'Go, and leave

have

been

other than

not

"

me

for

space!'and

head, and covered his face with his hands.

The sightof his evident agitation
too
was

then

much

dropped

his

for Neaera.

CHAP.

vi.

She

cast

then

admit

knock

carrying

father's

door,

stout

ROME

ANCIENT

perplexity

broad-faced

bearing

moustache,

OF

the

at

brown

her

to

sprang
loud

of

look

TALE

and

walking-stick

side.

did

she

As

which

wallet
his

over

hand.

her

so

lover,
there

simultaneously,

opened,
with

in

at

concern

man

light

179

short
one

stiff

and

was

to

beard

and

shoulder,

and

VII.

CHAPTER

blow, with

which

Domitius

sought to rid himself of his troublesome

client,nigh the huge moonlit
pileof the Circus Maximus, on the night of the attempted
assassination of Fabricius,was
not
lacking in force,but was a
Afer

-*-

trifle out

of

lain without
been
it

direction

fatal.
Had
prove
much
attention,
longer than he

sufficient to
fated

was

after the

that

the end

answer
a

house

knight had

him.

the shadow

door

that Afer

hard

by

disappeared,to

into the silent street.

lyingin

the stricken

to

The
of the

luckless

Cestus

wall,whither

did,it would

have

in view.

But

had

should

allow

man

not

open,
to

man

was,

as

pass

long
out

described,

his patron had

the very narrow

dragged

walk;
sidetherefore,directlyacross
and, the gloom of the shadow of the wall beingintensified
of the brightmoonlight adjacent,the individual we
by reason
have mentioned
did not perceive the body in his hurry,until
he. was
it. He
made
of its presence
aware
by fallingover
drew
into the lightto make
the Suburan
a more
straightway
minute
in awakening any
examination, not having succeeded
the breast,
In passing his hand
sign of consciousness.
over
his fingersmet
a damp,
clammy matter which caused him to
it was
blood.
shiver.
He
in the light,
held his hand
and saw
stricken man
The
still warm
he thought ;
and breathing,
was
as
he had
issued,
so
he, at once, ran back to the house whence
and knocked
was
readily
loudly. The help of the inmates
borne inside,and
was
obtained,and the sorelywounded
man
laid on a bed, pending the arrival of a physician.That person
and practised
consciousness
well that Cestus recovered
so
came,
ere

He

he
'

leech

was,

left him.

Here
to

is
the

killingfor theft,'observed
hear
to
household, gathered in concern

no

matter

of

the
his

CHAP.

TALE

vii.

dictum, 'unless,indeed, as
the thief.

was

of his

hawks
He

is

been

may

a
likely

More

tough rogue, and will

good, honest citizen of

likelywould

have

rascal,he will

died.

But

round

come

no

be

street

Tis

feather.

own

181

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

easilybelieved,that he
scuffle with some
nightill-aimed.
deep gash, but

likely.Had

most

recover

worth

be

to

I take

beingwhat
doubt.

deplored,he

am

him

to

he
most

be, a

afraid,
neighbour,

requitedfor your benevolence.'

of the house,who was
No matter,'responded the master
an
elderlyman, with sparse, gray hair,and a sad expression
of face ; do your best to effect a cure, if possible
; if he lives,
it may perhaps prove a lesson.'
said the
More
likelyto walk off with your valuables,'
you

will

be

never

'

'

'

as
physician,

he went

out

of the door.

the other ;
murmured
ingratitude,'
be so inhuman
even
;
my wicked,wayward boy would scarce
wretch.'
and he has descended
as low, perhaps,as this poor
Cestus had every care
paid to him, and for some
days he
'

Never

could

be

such

'

in

remained
for the
became

His

critical state.

Then

he took

favourable

turn

and, aided by his robust constitution,

better,
very shortly
convalescent.

explainhis disaster
to his benefactor.
refused,he said,to join a society
of his fellow-workmen,
who, no doubt,had attempted to be rid
hinted
of him as being a thorn in their sides.
He, likewise,
that he would be in danger of his life if he remained
in Rome,
and that he would take the earliest opportunity
to be quit of it.
his time in idleness,
As he was
accustomed
to lounge away
the

periodof

might
and

was
ingenuity

taxed
lightly

his confinement

otherwise

converse

very
He had

have

done.

at tolerable

did
His

not

to

prove
benefactor

length,when

so

irksome

learnt

he became

aware

to

as

it

come

of the

possible
and fluent tongue.
It was, therefore,impatient's
plausible
and often,Cestus should
that,speakingthus familiarly
obtain a certain insight
into the familyaffairs of his host.
not
he discovered that he owned
a
Amongst other things,
grace
scapewhose
of
his
life.
the
The
sorrow
were
misdoings
son,

great and varied knowledge which

the

Suburan

possessed of
the outlawryof the city,
enabled him to pitchupon the erring
himself.
notorious locality
as
youth as a denizen of the same
This much
he did not think prudent to reveal,and so, at the

182

NE"RA

same

time,saved

crime

than

the

grievingparent

that which

was,

the old man's

His

narrow

doubt, had

he

and

from
the

death

his heart.

him.

state,

Had

of
he

as

touched

his enfeebled

and

about

crust

Hardened

of shame

sense

n.

far darker evidence

alreadylamented.

sorrow

escape
softened

PART

he

no

been

familyhe could not have been tended with

and kindness,and this tugged at his heartstrings
care
more
likewise.
He acknowledged his gratefulness,
and, for the time
it is certain he felt it. But, in the silent and lonely
at least,
his mind
hours
of his reveries,
was
constantlyengaged in
weaving a web around his treacherous patron. It was, literally,
a

member

of the

to the

war

'

knife.

thinks

He

dead,'he

am

smile of satisfaction.
and

sudden

more

'

muttered

! his

Good

himself,with

to

awakeningwill

be all the

startling.'

safelydelivered out of the jaws of death, the

march
of Cestus toward
complete recovery was wonderfully
and, day by day,
rapid. Day by day he made a huge stride,
his appetite
and more
surprising.When at length
grew more
ceased from paying his visits,
the patienthinted
the physician
at his own
speedy departure.
When

'

it been

Had

his

bear

But
advised

safe for

I would

home

own

to

once

to

me

troubled

have

not

have

'

but I am
host ;
journey,and I will betake

him

not

to

mar

bade
a

removed

myself

him

from

beware

of

the

restoration

wonderful

to my

far,'he

so

you

strong enough

generous

his friend in need

been

now

said
to

gether.'
cityalto-

and
relapse,
of strength

by premature exertion,for the sake of a few days' earlier

liberty. Cestus listened and took the advice,which protracted
his sojournfor a week.
His plan of action had alreadybeen resolved on from the
and he
first,
To

now

made

gather strengthand

he made

the

few

harden

short excursions out

his frame

of doors.

The

carry it out.
gentleexercise
to

arrangements

by

first time

he did

of the
him, on account
danger he ran of being seen by his supposed enemies.
Why, master,'returned Cestus, there is less danger than
in the first place,it is the time of day when
you think ; for,
who left me
for dead,with a curse
on
those fine fellows,
them,
so

his entertainer tried

'

to

dissuade

'

CHAP.

all at their

are

TALE

vii.

looks

that my
shrunken

in

altered

are

body

as

would

time.

for the

remind

you,

thin and

as

am

eel-skin;
my beard is two inches long;
alter myself with a certain juiceof
to
buy for a sesterce; so have no fear,my

I further purpose
berry which I can

kind

again,I

an

and
a

Then

dailylabour.

183

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

benefactor.'
had

Now, in safe keepingin the Subura, Cestus

which

of

money
demanded

remained

of his patron,
tolerable portionhad been

as

last instalment

the

of

amount

he

had

previously.A

related

have

we

an

alreadysquandered,but the residue

such as he repreartisan,
was
enough to enable any Roman
sented
without
live
for
himself to be, to
a
comfortably
year
the execution
labouring. But, not knowing to what exigencies
picion
susof his plans might bring him, he resolved to incur no
use.
He, therefore,appliedto his
by its immediate
host,to providehim

with

small

loan

to

the cost

cover

of his journey.
the expenses
'
honour,'he said, has been so good

of

few clothes and

'

Your

I shame
to

ask

to

him

snatch

more

from

from

take in

To

you.
death's door

to

"

nurse

alreadythat

poor wretch
him, feed him like
a

"

brother,and with small hope of return, is a thing that the

gods will bless you for and prosper you.'
the other ; here is what will help
Say no more,' replied
you.'
He
placed in the Suburan's hand a sum
equal to about
five pounds sterling.
a

'

'

'

'

reward

Heaven

your

friend.
of his generous
will repay you this loan,

'

robe
I

been

put

debt

to

on

account

my

as
as
gratitude
easily

of

said Cestus,

worship!
as

If I have
well

as

but, if

the

health and
the

cost

I could

strength
you

have

dischargethe

I would

money,

the
kissing

be thankful

indeed.'
Think

'

no

It is not
and

of

more

much

it,'
rejoinedthe

other.

say that Cestus was

for his treatment.
He even
swore
grateful

he would
The

too

to

future
at some
prove it practically,
firstthing that he did,on gettingout

obtain

which

he

appliedto

supply of
diluted
his

certain

to

skin,and

bring
it,at

kind
to

once,

reallytouched
to

himself

that

time,if possible.
of

doors, was

to

berry,yieldinga juice
requisitetinge. This he
of

gave

him

the appearance

NE"RA

184
of

thinned

exposure

to

the

it.

weather, whilst his

easilysuggested,at the same

time,
fatiguesand privations.Presentinghimself

drawn

features

effects of

the

by

bronzed

man

PART

to learn
gratified
suddenly before his host, he was
so
great as to mystifythat worthy man
change was

that the
for

moment.

excursion

This
limbs

their

from

were

took

He

Subura.

he arrived

when

his

at

contact

with

he had

constituted

Cestus

to

the

how
of

pristinestate

his embrowned

with
expedition,

next

the

proved

face,was

ramble

into

unfrequented streets, and,

most

destination,he avoided

acquaintances.Sending for
his

very far his

sturdiness.
His

all chance

the individual

banker, he remained

of

whom

with that

closeted

from intrusion. This man

worthy in a retreat secure
His
in the lowest part of the Subura.
tavern-keeper
of his prodigal
customers.
was
large,and Cestus one

was

business
Not

in the practice
he amassed
of his trade but
coin of the money
had been obtained by its spenders in the vocations of crime
in the

historyof his
his knowledge was
native locality,
superficial
compared with
Without
this man's.
engaging in any unlawful pursuit
actually

and

vice.

himself

Learned

he

silent
his

aided

bestowed

on

Cestus

of
history
oath

required.

The

publicanwas

friend,for all clue to his whereabouts

his

speedilymade
and
disappearance,

Cestus

for revenge.

his

him

truly
had

acquainted

wound

up

with

other tried to get at the

patron, the knight,but the

The

only smiled and put his fingeralong his

he said, but not now.'
Some
day, brother,'
Well, well,as you please I care little.'

Suburan

'

was

His trustworthiness was

their patronage.
in applyingto
Cestus had perfectconfidence

relations of his friend with

'

He

Without
self
himthe grave.
incriminating
hideous
customers, and they, in return,

surprisedto see
been completelylost.
tremendous

did.

of all others who

him

his

the

secret

as

his power, and

him for the little help he

with

was

the confidant

was

receptiveand
he

as

nose.

'

"

is to send
you to do now
while I wait here, if my patron is in Rome
'
I like to know
where
proceeded Cestus.
'

All

I want

goingto take a holidaywith a kinsman

get strong again. The sea air will bring me
am

know,
and
likelyto be,'
I have him, for I

and

get

to

in Puteoli until I

round, and then

CIUP.

TALE

vii.

I will return

to

attention

pay

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

to

185

worthy patron

my

the

on

Esquiline.'
'Do

intend

you

publican.
Humph
'

'

! you

haste,and

but

I left with

wanted.

Cestus

safelyin

'

That

is

'

No

it

but

Puteoli.
'

Cestus

He

Who"

hast

"

be

can

with

he demanded.

answered
than any one
can
tell,'
is where Caesar dwells?'

'Capreae
It is,brave

back

can

train of the Prefect.

his banker.

more

'

along

all I

was

his treasure
away
learned that his patron

tunic,and
Capreae, in the

returns?'

when

and

want

hour,

an

of his

the breast

'And

I shall

you.
in

know,

to

Cestus

latter stowed

The

in the island of

was

I want

together.'
publicandeparted,and,

scrape
The
what

very
have what

me

cash

off?' inquired the

straight
returned
flattering/

not

are

let

with it all the

knife him

to

been

ever

times,like

at

seen

there?'

speck, from

can't stay there for ever.'

Caesar ? '

'No, you fool

Afer.'

"

'Ah!'
'

'

No

Well, I
was

one

bide

time,'said Cestus,
my
that could not.
worth much

can
ever

he will until I

where

shook

Suburan

The

am

friend,took his slow way

this

With

down

trader
and
of

to

Puteoli.

Cestus

his

took

may

rest

his

to

homeward.

exercise his body began

of

firmness.

bank, where

The

then !

He

go.

'

fist,
and, bidding farewell

of its wonted

the river

to

"

dailyincrease

gathersomething
was

and

strong

risingto

vessel

His

to

last excursion

he took

was

to

passage in a regular
sail the followingday,

his farewell of his host with many

expressions

gratitude.
The

to

voyage
centre

stayedat

of

Puteoli is

commerce

publicinn,and,

not

Cestus
on

the

long,and

in that

remained

evening of

two

most

days.

the second

portant
imHe

day,

dark,and took his way toward Neapolis.

he quittedthe gates ;
Good
! he muttered
to himself,
as
been
if any curious eyes have
now
watching me
they will
search Puteoli from end to end, and
be mystified. They may
find my
kinspeopleas myself;' the said
they will as soon

he left the
'

'

town
'

after

1 86

NESERA

kinsfolk

being, in fact,a

PART

fabrication

mere

far

as

n.

Puteoli

as

concerned.

was

did

He

think it prudent to strain his

not

the
by traversing
he

at

put up

distance
and

whole

the

distance

first tavern

Puteoli.

from

Neapolis.

entered

he
next

Here

he

that

Neapolis on
met
with,at

to

The

budding strength

loitered for

convenient

morning he

night,so

astir

was

early

day, and then

bay. He ambled
a

proceeded on a leisurely
walkingtour of the
and past the villas which lined that
along through the towns
matchless
shore, drinking in the pure air,and enjoyingthe
far as he was
as
capable of doing. He had a wellscenery
filled purse, and he took his ease
at his inn,where
did not overtask
his
and drank
of the best.
He

he

fed

strength,

every day increased it,for,indeed,he could not

upon a better plan for that end.
In this way he proceeded through Herculaneum,
and

hit

have

Pompeii,
route, tillat length,

his
on
Stabiae,the most considerable towns
on
one
afternoon,he sat to rest himself upon
of the

self-same

'Houf!'

last !

place at

into

him.

'

it must

The

in the

name

since then !
her

"

then

the

far

as

same

looked

and
I

as

sister,
may

Tibia, my

husband

too, and

and

"

dead

be

the

and

whole

when

"

treating
my

Boy,

do

lane

lad who

know

you
if he be dead or
The

alive ?

debouched

dust

by

lot,and

this
then

"

where

knows

one

taste

Greece,

"

only the

of his

small

play

own

"

know.'
walked

onward,

few paces

nigh.

was

by
potter hereabouts,

boy simplyturned

which

patron

matter, I shall soon

his seat and
from

he called to
'

"

seemed
to think
strange I never
the very gates of the place what

to

arose

around

It is

satisfaction of

He

sank

remember

can

I shall have

No

is

here

here.
Fourteen
years !
years since I was
of the furies do I know
what has happened

"

already

He

potter !

of this tillnow, at
seriously
if they are
gone, flitted to no
Egypt, Africa,Gaul, why, then

humph

have

we

'

find my
lifted his head

better shall I be ?

what

which

to

now

place looks

be fourteen

How

time

And

reverie,and

of
fountain,

basin

worn

the verge of the town

of Surrentum.
he sighed,as he seated himself; 'and

spoken, on
the

ancient

the

name

Masthlion

'

or

and

close

pointed to
to.

the end

of

narrow

Cestus, thereupon, looked

CHAP.

inquiringly

more

about

him,

it?'

HOME

ANCIENT

as

if

striving

187

to

recall

of

this

some

membrance
re-

spot.
have

to

seem

is

there

OF

the

of
'

TALE

vn.

The

of

sort

lad

nodded.

youth

nodded

recollection

place

up

"

'Alive?'
taciturn

The

on

with

his
his

street

said,
into

stood

in

the

of

him

served

into

house,
sign

any

considerably

memory

striding
the

mind

the
where

life.

presence

once

No

shop.
he
He
of

was

then
those

and

more,

relieved.

equally
tried

within,

'Just

being

there

unsuccessful
the

workshop,
as

we

have

walked

in

Once

better.

one

Cestus

the

the

little
he

same,'

he

proceeded
in

ing
discover-

and,
described.

at

last,

VIII.

CHAPTER

-L

Rome, and
sauntering excursion,from

sequent

of the

bay, had

to

nearer

the

from
sea-trip

short

I "HE

served

to

approach

native

their

to

the

the face and

restore

days' subopposite side

few

frame

fulness

Cestus

of

outline.

of

Nevertheless, his broad physiognomy was

yet pinched and
shrunken, and his garments of rough woollen material hung

sharplyand looselyabout his diminished bulk.

colouringof his skin was yet continued,for the
Suburan

was

distance

from

and

cunning
Rome

sufficient

for

the threshold

on

of the

nature
not

discard

deem

the
this

even

workshop he stopped
and surveyed them
with

of the

moment,

to

reason

disguise.
On
perceivingthe occupants
short

did

and
suspicious,

artificial

The

Masthlion
raised his
as
they regarded him.
surprise
face from his hands, and, takingone
step forward,gazed at the
new-comer
intently. Cestus fixed his small keen eyes on the
inclined
lovely face and form of Neaera, who, instinctively,

as

much

her lover.

toward
up

Then

Masthlion, clapped the

to

his

he withdrew

potter
'

and assurance.
his old swagger
fare you after all these years?

the

on

How

Do

glance,and, marching

now,

you

shoulder

with

kinsman

How

remember

not

all

me?'

cried he.

heavy brows were

into
glared intensely

knitted

Masthlion's

nay, almost
be almost impossibleto describe

his eyes

his visitor's face.

the mixture

of

gazed,

It would

which
feelings

and relief were

Wonder
dominant,
agitatedhis whole frame.
beneath.
and anguish lay numb
Suddenly his visage cleared,
he

and
grasp
'

clutched

the

of Cestus

arm

of iron that the Suburan

Marvel

of

marvels

'

he

with
convulsively,

such

winced.

gasped

'

what, Cestus,

is it

be

OF

where?

From

thou?

TALE

VIII.

CHAP.

ROME

ANCIENT

Thou

art

189

dead,

not

then

the

"

gods

praised.'
said Cestus.
I'm glad on't,kinsman, if ithath pleasedthee,'
I have had you in my mind every day for months
past
in
mind.'
present
my
nay, as you entered,you were
welcome
'That
love indeed, and means
was
a
warm
'

'

"

"

thanks, brother!'
'

'
the
! exclaimed
ay, welcome
of the Suburan
and shaking them

Welcome

potter, seizing

"

'

fervently,the
of all I wished to see, and the least expected. It
very man
is the doing of the gods
praisedbe the gods !
Humph !' ejaculatedCestus,justa littledoubtful whether
his kinsman's
gard
joy was altogetherattributable to personal rehave my say, I am
justas light; and, if you will let me
hearted as you to find you
on
earth, and not departed to
is with you, Cestus !
the land of spirits.Luck
But how of
Tibia,my sister?'
both

hands

'

"

'

'

Did

'

you

not

her in the house

see

'

her not,
then ! No, I saw
is breathinglike yourself,
in every room.
More
nor
any live being,though I looked
fortune,Cestus ; for they are all justas you would wish them,
'

She

to

even

lass I

saw

'The

this

last,as

bonny wench, kinsman.

with her
a bit of a chit,

same,

Cestus

and

"

Neaera

"

This

is the

little

doll of rags ? '

has
she
grown,' said

Masthlion.
'

Grown

You

Nesera

say true.

"

I had

forgottenyour

kiss your uncle, after how many

years away, he
him feel so old.'
dare not say, lest it make
But the fair girl
shrank back from the proffered
and
salute,
name

"

come,

offered her hand

'

Well

instead,
sayingshe
'

"

well ! cried

will

dispensewith

rob

that young

Cestus, with

the kiss

"

I will

glad to see her uncle.

his loud rough laugh, I

was

not

'

press it. I would not

I
; and, truth to tell,

gentleman of even one

have not
a
kissinglook about my figurehead. You are, at
the same
for many
I
a day
time,the finest lass I have seen
give thee joy,Masthlion,of thy lovelydaughter. And this
doubt
noble gentleman, kinsman, has no
to the same
come
conclusion
make
known
he is no
us
long ago
you do not
apprenticeto thy pottery trade I can see.'
'A
and
and
Nesera's betrothed,'
friend,kinsman
ex"

"

"

"

"

NE"RA

igo

plainedthe potter,with

PART

of

the countenance

look at

askant

an

ir.

Cestus.
'

thee

! ho

Ho

joy

!' cried

you

"

have

but you

"

giveme

no

kinsman.'

name,

Martialis had

drawn

fixed in its

was

worthy, then
fair jewel,sir

won

Give

'tisall settled.

'

that

himself

height,and his face

the voluble,unretiring

his full

to

haughtiestaspect, on

Suburan.
'

My

Nesera

is Martialis ; and
I will take your hand,'he
name

accordingly.
'I am
proud

do

to

if you

such

Cestus, suitingthe action

of knightlyrank, I see, and as much

answered

above

need

doubt, you

free-minded

the

to

me

wish

can

eagle
ness
happi-

you

alreadypossess,

are

there is

so

wish

whiter in

and

noble,'

the

as

you that.'
'I thank you !' said Martialis coldly.
'
And
I remember
being stouter
you !
you
to

fingers

word, 'for you

above

Nevertheless

fowl.

fortune,without

;
no

barn-door

his

out
said,stretching

with

so

the uncle of

indeed

are

Whence

face.

have

in

you

body

inquired

come?'

Masthlion.

long story,kinsman, and I will tell you at leisure,'

repliedCestus ; enough for the present to tell you I have
been at death's door, and have come
to gain back
my strength
'

It is

'

in the pure air of Surrentum.

I have come
to tarry a season
in your house, Masthlion, if you are willing"it shall cost you
nothing,save the infliction of my company.'
'

tillyou are
yet afford to house

Stop, and welcome,

the rest, I can

without
turning tavern
and

salt under
'

Well,

my

as

keeper
"

roof must
like.

you

pay

hale and
my

kinsman,

man

no

strong ; but, for

who

as

tastes

guest,
bread

my

for the same.'

am

delighted to

see

you,

by

Jupiter.'
'

'

with

I have

And

I thee

And

I also ; most

Neaera, my

"

needed

thce,and

to
especially

fair niece

"

but

have
come,

have

much

my

say.'
gladdened
to

eyes
there yet remains

sister Tibia.'

Ay, true,'said Masthlion,going to the

house ! Haste
thee, girl take thy uncle's
'

"

his

room

Get

water

The

Centurion

door.
wallet !

will

excuse

'

Into the

Prepare
thee

for

CHAP.

vni.

OF

ANCIENT

I will go and

littletime.

with you

TALE

soon

come

"

house.

strange figure of
forward
and

and

mild

and

between
the character
similarity
between
their dispositions.
'

the

latter

whither
traveller

cock

'Tis

to

Masthlion, as

little guest

chamber,

applianceswherewith

after his

journey,

'

the

tell

of that tall young

fellow downstairs.
house.'
to be hauntinga potter's

more

young
'

himself

many
delightas her

Cestus

the

conveyed

refresh

to

was

something
gay

had

Nesera

signs
quiet

as

was,

of the

withdrawingout

was

of

! ' said

Hark'ee, brother-in-law

to

rushed

then

and

indeed, a faint
but very little
their faces,

There

of.

which

the

curiouslyat

moment,

astonishment

capable

was

looked

him, givingvent

embraced

nature

She

for

Cestus

expressionsof

be

the

them.

met

clay coatingand

get rid of my

workshop, and proceeded

wife, in the meantime, had
potter's

The

re-entered,and

191

'

They all, therefore,left

into the

ROME

me

'Tis

nor
alreadygivenmuch trouble
his heavy brows.
I yet satisfied,'
returned Masthlion,knitting
Just so ; the girlis handsome, and people tattle. One of
breed is a dangerous visitor to your
pigeon-cote,'said

am

matter

has

"

'

his

Cestus.
'

He

has

Bid

him

acted

and
fairly

is in haste

honestly,and

wed

to

her.'
'

'What
more

to

me

Aha

Hast

'

I bade

while.'

her

tell him

unfitting.He

as

up

to

come

refused,and

no

went

been

to the

Masthlion,a-seeking
great city,

'

well ?

"

patientfor

do?

I to

give her

be

to find thee.'

Rome
'

was

to

"

wait,and

could

not

find you,

nor

yet Balbus,with whom

you

dwelt.'
Cestus

grinned.
for
'No, it is not likely,
I did

'

thingsgo
years

"

my

And

'

Even

as

you

were

in

fated.

reasonable

nearlydead

marriage.'

was

they were

as

it was

'

best ; I

Balbus

to

I have

is

not

there.'

despair,and
You

never

suppose

could

but

let

nigh all these

came

that you

not

were

dead.'

been.'

he
entering,

was

pressingme

for her

NEJERA

192

'I
'

justpat, did I
the kind gods

came

Thank

heavy load, and

know

'But

name?'
'

I fear have

demanded

'

He

is

'

He

is

than

more

bears

He

Rome.

What

me

the

of

me

alone.'

fellow's

young

high character.'

brought him

here?'

with the Prefect

Pretorian Centurion

thereby relieved

but that is for

"

citizen then.

have

you

Cestus.

inquiredin

ir.

not?'

nothing

you

PART

at

present in

Capreae.'
'

Cestus, this may

! ho ! ' murmured

Ho

'

be useful.

am

kinsman
for nothing,
sorry you had your journey to Rome
but I am
not too
late,as it happens, to ease
your mind.

came
you in this matter, and I really
It is a long story,
business in my head.
have a flagonof wine
best be entered upon when
we

you know,
with much
the same
as

can,

and

had

between

us, and

help

the

repliedMasthlion,with
Meanwhile,
his while

worth

Masthlion
both

asleepin

women

"

fob
who

retired

the

awaitingthem.
They did not
luxurious

knows

not
too
you are
satisfaction.

recline

perhaps,be

it may,

and
presentable,

found

couches

on

tired,'

'

himself

to make

of the

manner

upstairs.'

sigh of deep
Pretorian off;

appeared below,they

men

bed

if
to-night,

that will be

'Good;
'

to

but
higherclasses,

simple meal

when

ready

their food, after the

sat round

the table

drank
and
Cestus
ate
simple old-fashioned way.
vigorously. Nor did his tongue remain idle. Among many
with a severe
that he had
met
things,he informed them
quence
ribs,and in conseaccident,in which he had broken some
had granted him leave of absence
of which his master

in

to

the

visit his

kinsfolk,as

soon

as

he

was

able to

move.

nearlyall the conversation to himself. His sister

and her husband
was
too
was
silent,
naturally
busy with his
As far as the lovers were
thoughtsto speak much.
concerned,
Nesera's mind was
divided between
ful
disgustat having her blissand the disagreeable
day spoiledby the unexpected visitor,
to be more
less proor
feelingof knowing that his stay was
longed.
He

had

Her
appearance,
not

unmixed

nature

his

shrank

from

this unknown

relative
"

his

self-sufficientstyle
of talk,
loud,over-confident,
with coarse
wit or impertinence. He
an
was

CHAP.

TALE

vni.

addition

unwelcome

193

in
family circle,
especially

her

to

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

of her lover.
Many a time did the
presence
flame in her cheeks,and the fire flash in her

tongue wagged

Suburan's
not

the

talker

least,on

Pretorian grew
his

Centurion.

wearied

to cost

was

vexed, and ashamed,

stood alone before

easy
when

of
familiarity

opportunityof taking
even
relieved,
though the

her the company

she laid her head

of her lover.

Angry,

his shoulder

on

noted

parting. He

think you
he had

'What
'Would

she
hitherto,'
'You

the red cheeks

as

they

and

the

been

never

known

better

to

than

me

I?'

Never; would

'

It is

it were

he
strange,'

the

same

were

not

consideration he bade

moment's

last words

These

few words.

bringher

father for

'You

angered

you

"

!'

now

muttered.

Nesera,and after
are

of him ?'

before heard

never

you

'

to

he said.

like him?'

not

could

And

uncle?3

new-found

of your

answered.

do

'How

audible

the

as

brow, and he smiled.

clouded

'

eyes,

fluency; and,
bearingof the
at
length the

and
pertinacity

of the

indignantgirlwas
leave,the fair,

movement

her

Thus,

blood

warm

seized the earliest

and
attentions,

these

of the free and

account

her

towards

with its accustomed

on

the

at this

vexed

are

she said

man?'

anxiously.
'

him

He

can

be of

no

to me,

consequence

nor

need

ever

see

again.'
'

will

You

never

while he is

come

here,and

he may

stay
"

oh, so long.'
arms

to

he took her in his

as
see,'he replied,smiling,
again. ' But go,'he said,rousinghimself; ' time begins

We

will

press

upon

'

me

; it will be

sunset

ere

I reach

the island.

Go, bringyour father.'

the

'Lucius,what meant
workshop?' asked

soldier'sface

ere

as

herself from
other's eyes.

know

gray ones,
other's souls,and

he said;'it
not,'
0

may

The

black

then he shook

be

in
the

his embrace.

shiningwith their

the lustrous

if to read each
'I

each

he

father!"
said,"Not
looking up into
earnestly,

Nesera

she loosed

They gazed into

orbs met

he when

nothing
"

piercing
lovelight,

his head.
it may

be

NEMRA

194

something

departed,

Neaera

impress

to

for

purpose,

no

In

'

'

Good.

the

in

beloved.

my

Think

no

time

the

said,

'

used

for

but

thus

not

demand

soon.'

it,' answered

the

Centurion,

is

unreasonable,

he

as

embraced
of

what

use

"

is

it

delay?'

to

She

with

usual

than

example,

together.

might

she
than

him,

appease

and,

thus,

By
so

began

and
the

time
was

by
potter

into

come

to

where

the

near

dislike.

her

she

Cestus,

until

protract

her

that

elsewhere

work

to

and

he

finally

away.

order

In

of

something

murmured

himself

tore

to

!'

father

Your

will

and

room,

time

arguments,

but

know,

'Farewell

ceeded
pro-

negotiation.

all

come

fixing

of

his

all

shall

you

Martialis

desirability

refused

potter

heat.

left

Masthlion.

the
He

next

some

betrothed,

him

time

The

Masthlion
his

time,

brought

Nesera.

reasonable

lover,

the

and
upon

with

marriage

his

in

discover

n.

it.'

of

more

will

you

PART

This

was.

retiring,

for
almost

which

altogether
Tibia

dame
and

his

as

little
in

herself

engage

he

the

contact

she
she

quit
thought

brother-in-law

as

sible
pos-

household

managed
earlier

made
of

to

the
fit

to

were

object
follow
left

IX.

CHAPTER

fitful
THE ceased
in

movements

knew

his

that

the
wife

therefore,hastened

we

should
'

I'd

wait?'
as

lieve have

chat

in

rare

humour.

and

happy,'repliedCestus

are

alone

to

shut

put

am

the door

with

Masthlion

minutes, and
the

During
had

an

been

end

thee

hard

this

to

to

hide ;

painfulstate

will you

or

; in

now

his

last hour

that

fact,I feel in

at findingeverybody well
spirits

gaily.

; what

overhead

room

Cestus ;
to talk now,
weary
he said to his companion.

the

and

few

increased, and

he

too

bed.

in

was

had
agitation

of suspense.
'
Are you

of

course

nervous

now,

the floor of the

on

'

Bring

out

better could

one

the

man,
drink,kins-

wish

when

we

together?'

quickly made

and
required dispositions
the bright fire alluded
sat opposite his brother-in-law before
his arm
stretched
the table,with
He
out
at length upon
to.
his fingersnervously moving and
tapping thereon, whilst he

Masthlion

watched
Cestus's
of

his

became

Suburan

the
keen

pour

out

some

wine

perceptionshad

kinsman's

already
inquietude of mind,

justas deliberate

followinga

the

natural

bent

and
in

observed
and

phlegmatic in
his

humour,

into

two

the

cups.

signs

he, therefore,
his

which,

movements,
with

equal

would
have watched
the torture
of a Sisyphus,or
satisfaction,
terrified insect.
and
The
the wrigglingof a maimed
blaze of
into relief
the logsthrew their countenances
the newly-grown
shaggy beard of the Roman, and his swarthy stained skin,
with
the high,
together with his blunt features, contrasted
domelike, intellectual forehead, overhanging the deep -set,
bent on
the
bright eyes of the potter, so anxiously,
thirstily
calm, lazy motions of his companion. No other light being
"

NE^ERA

196

PART

present, their distorted shadows

the

flickered and

n.

athwart

moved

oppositewall in varied and grotesque forms.

observed
Kinsman, you are anxious,'
Cestus,as he slowly

'

the wine

dribbled

into

his cup

until the

liquidbubbled

on

the very brim.

'
I own
it,'
repliedMasthlion.
The
mouth
a

raised the

Suburan

brimming cup carefullyto his

took a deep draught,
whilst the potter hastily
took
barelywet his lips.

and

sipwhich

'Yes,'continued
have

very
who
girl,

rare

I cannot

'

Why,

for such
all her
'

strong notion
is

in bed

pretty limbs

as

is
upstairs,

the old bird's nest.'

flyfrom

to

you
that

when

come

briefly.

it is the way of the world.

could
You
she to escape matrimony and go on,

hope,

never
as

maiden,

days?'

fair. The

is

likely
; she

be

not

good

as

child

she

as

is

pointis alreadysettled.'
then, if she is fated

Well

why

should

you

think

it trouble

the

you

leave

to

are

child all

was

You

with her

you

to see

more

coming to carry
thingif I did.'
said
Cestus,'
trifling,

to the same
'

her

has

repliedMasthlion
deny it,'

It would

'

warming

anxious, because

are

the time

that

trim her feathers

beginningto
'

Cestus, 'you

her

drop

me

off?

husband,
in ?

It would

Did

amount

the potter somewhat

sternly.
trial to be bereft of an
It is a sore
child
at any time,
only
but that does not now
constitute the whole matter.
While
'

she

was

it behoved
in
she

blood

think

to

me

the

was

not

when

that

she

and

she

been

Had

matter.

could

well,but

have

been

more

she
I

found

to

cerned
con-

flesh and

own

my

all

not

were

lover

Yet

me.

she

is

only a charge; and, although I thought you dead, I made the

When
that attempt was
vain,and you
attempt to find you.
appeared so strangelyand opportunely,I was agitated.I am
anxious

now,

has left me.

and

'what

but in
The

touches

different way
my
child is the dearest
a

her

"

touches

me

load of

responsibility

thing on

to the

earth

inmost

to

me,

fibre of my

heart.'

her

'And

with

and

tended

Masthlion.
perfectright,

her, and

she

is yours

You
more
'

have
than

reared

anybody

else's,'
repliedCestus,nodding approvingly;up to a few weeks

CHAP.

I knew

ago

her

had

as

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

she lived

whether

not

You

not.

or

TALE

ix.

your own,

or

revived in

few

weeks

importanceto

imbibed

Cestus

to

cup
listen to the

'Ha!'

"

neither

can
"

this

about
you to go into particulars
the way to her heart.'

good draught

another

of

after

next, he settled himself

When
he
of Nesera's lover.

Masthlion

could

tell him

relapsedinto deep thought as

and

wine,and

for the

potter'saccount

everythingthat

heard

had

Nevertheless

in readiness

his
refilling

it

to ask

me

has found

gallantwho

no

cern
my conit is of sufficient

"

different nature.

want

claim

of your stewardship,
kinsman, for I cannot
I
bears it in her looks.
it is not needed ; the girl
sentiment
claim any duty or affection
I want
no
a

I say,

as

ago,

account

is of

lived

you

greatestinterest in the girl. I

the

me

whether

"

and you might have disposed

ideas,but for circumstances,

according to your own

which, unexpectedly,occurring a

of her

not

197

he

he

ejaculated
gazed into

the fire.
is your opinion?'inquiredMasthlion.
'Opinion!' echoed Cestus, 'my opinionis that they have

'Well

! what

mine.
or
beyond your interference,
alreadysettled the matter
If they have taken such a strong fancy for each other that is
enough for sensible people.'
But the youth
the Pretorian
do you approve
of him ?'
'

"

said Masthlion
'That
'

and,

is
the

as

"

impatiently.

question more
girlbelongs more

of

to

sentiment,'
repliedCestus,
yourselfthan to me, I will

if you are satisfiedI am.'

leave it with you
'
One thingtroubles me,' said the potter,knitting
his brows
"

passinghis

and

been

had

more

bred

humbly

hand
on

his

across

level with

in this house

'

forehead,
her

do you

"

I could

station
not

"

she

dames

of the

city,and

has

he

been

think,Cestus,there

is great fear of his fancy coolingas time goes on

be contrastingher simple,plain
for ever
ways

proud

wish

he will repent.

He

with

will
those

Ah, Cestus,I

fear he will !'

'

whilst

seems

the

Suburan, shrugging
forth on
his face,'she

of that accident.

be such

she

said

grin broke

chance
to

!'

Humph

a
as

Perhaps there

difference between

good

as

he

is,and

them

his
must

not
may
after all. To

shoulders,
run

turn

my
will
her.
alter
practice

the
out

eyes
You

NE"RA

198
have

that your

fancy

elevation and
'

forbid !

Heaven

daughter may

tire of her

day

some

n.

her old ways under the same

old roof.'
I trust she may be happy with husband

to

return

PART

children.'

and

observed Cestus
/have
no
whatever,'
objection
'Justso.
calmly, 'but there remains one who might, and, until that
opinion is obtained,my tall young Pretorian must practise
though he burst.'
patienceand restrain himself,even
cried

mean?'

do

What

'How!

you
told me.'

Masthlion.

other
'An-

you never
No, I did not ; it was not
which I think is some
fourteen
"

necessary or wise at the time,

fifteen years ago.'
or
intense
his face betrayedthe most

'

Masthlion

told you she was

The
old friend of mine.

The

crimsoned

blood

the

story was

drew

he

potter'sface,and

to

orphan

an

poor workman, an
lie and I deceived you.'
a

child

coolly, I brought that

brat,and
yellow-haired

as

'

continued

Cestus

eagerness.
you
of

nodded, and

up
self,
himhis
but
in
curbing
glowed
Indignation
eyes,
that was
said with loftyreproach, 'A
lie,Cestus

his form.
he

"

well indeed.'

'Nay, don't
Suburan, with the
tell you

to

knew

at

It did you no
any.
that the
did I dream

the time

come

as

you

you

necessitywould

without

brat, so I
it over

I handed

to

nobody, and
uneasy.'

belonging to
stray helplessfledgeling

mind

your

tale

harm, for

as

You
that you should.
were
thought you would be glad of this one.

ever

the

'

utmost

better; nor

no

yourself,kinsman,' continued
as
good
sang froid, it was

fluster

has

consequentlynever

been

'Well, and the truth?'

'

Did

your

mind

Did

girlshootingup?
what
a

you looked
wonder
and say

suspect

never

you

never

of poor swinkers were

they from whom
slip? Why, it is the first thought which

kind

brave

struck

had

me,

never

known

anythingabout

the

upon

as

yourself,

to

such

sprang
would
her

"

have
a

tall

of their goddesses in their temples.

lass,like one
she has ripened
I have watched
her,kinsman, these few hours

clean-made

"

justto
and

what

might have

flash of her

on
plainly

her face

eyes,
"

her

expected. I have seen the turn

the working of her thoughts written
whole bearing. Did they ever
spring
been

CHAP.

TALE

ix.

the

OF

ANCIENT

ROME

199

work-a-day folks?
No, her breed will
hide
show itself. Common
homespun and ignorancecannot
it from those that know
it but what can
you know, Masthlion,
of these proud aristocrats?'
of

out

den

of

"

'

Aristocrats !' exclaimed

'

seat.
'

This

That

is another

the

of your tales !'

before very long,I hope,'replied

deception
"

will discover

you

his

potter, springingfrom
another

drily.

Cestus

people yet live,

say you?'
One at least
that will be quite sufficient'
Masthlion
dropped back into his seat with
'And

her

'

"

he buried

said,and
'

if this be

'Then

groan.

'Tis

'

on

You

joy.

could

one

in

the

wish

you

to

see, and
"

Masthlion.

'

would

comfort

All

the

should

gold

"

be in

youngster

may
better than

he

who

in the

with

dancingmood
to

fine

as

as
filly

well expect to have

it was
before.'
ever
thinks

your

money!' cried

of

proud cityof

itself

Rome

jot for the taking away

bring her to me, Cestus, and

me

of the

one

child.

then I
Why did you ever
been spared this ?
but then, if you had not, I had missed
happinessof the child's presence these fourteen years.'

had

"

the

'

Exactly,'
repliedCestus, seconding that

and

then, kinsman, as

lose her whichever

of her

on

black

we

have

to

thank

way

me

for.

The

them

to
'

Good

as

Centurion

Rome,'

and

you
to

you

must

be rid
have

thingsare seldom
up, man;
first. You
will not be left out

she have

said Masthlion

! it is the

and

alacrity,

Cheer

they are painted at

altogetherin the cold, maybe.'
'

with

alreadyagreed that
it is,therefore,best

it goes,
the best terms.
Strike the balance

great deal
so

lost her!'

to

strong chest well lined

'Tell me
of money
not

'

indeed

his face in his hands.

the contrary, you

have reared up

never

have

grieve over,'remarked
Cestus,shrugging
ness
contempt at his companion's want of shrewd-

nought

his shoulders

true

suppressed

alreadypressedme
dejectedly.

to follow

to dwell
only place fit for a sensible man
be as secret as you wish, or as publicas you
in. You
may
think proper to make
yourself.'
I should be nearer
to her of a truth,'
the potter
muttered
'and
to himself,
could
get a glimpse of her from time to
'

time.'

NE"RA

200

'

cried Cestus,overhearing; that

again,'

True

'

quietlyat
avoid

PART

of

corner

any

; but

street

and
possibledisappointment

familiarityknightsand potters don't

I

be

well

to

any nearer
very well.'
be
yet it would
upon

match

"

'

is to be done

it would
build

not

It

know

it ! But
it,Cestus, I know
Masthlion.
murmured
strange if she could forget,'
Cestus took another pullat his wine, and looking across
at his companion's troubled
lion,
face,said briskly,Come, Masththis is only speculation
get to the facts ! Have
; let us
might serve as a
you anythingbelongingto the girlwhich
token of her earlyyears ?'
'

Masthlion
'

once

up without
looks well,'
muttered

That

rose

addressinghis

more

word

and

Cestus

to

attentions

to

left the

room.

himself,and he
the wine jarwhen

was

he

No ! no ! be careful,
Cestus,'he said ; you
stopped himself.
are
only an invalid yet, and only need what will do you good
You must
get strong again as fast as possible.'
Masthlion re-entered bearing
a small bundle
neatlyand tightly
bound.
He untied and unrolled the package on the table.
'There, Cestus !' he said, there are the self-same things
which she had about her when
They have
you left her here.
been carefully
kept'
The small eyes of the Suburan
flashed with joy as they
lifted them
rested on the contents.
He
by one and
up one
examined
them.
They consisted,as the potter said,of the
'

'

'

"

tinygarments
there

girth of

was

child two

small

bag

tion,
three years old ; and, in addiof soft leather,
not largerthan the
or

small-sized walnut, to

chain

steel

of

to

encircle

the

which

attached

was

Pouncing

neck.

the

on

fine

bag

His
polished stone.
with delight
Good
! he said,
beamed
face fairly
as he gazed.
he replacedthe stone, and put the bag carefully
as
away in his
breast, this is of the highestimportance; taken togetherwith
And
yourselfand Tibia they are enough for what I want.
lion,
In the first place,Masthto let you
into the secret.
now
Cestus

extracted

carved

amulet

of

'

'

'

that
lover

piece of
her
owes
upstairs,

whose

face she declined

rare

life !' exclaimed

womankind

who

is

dreaming of

her

directlyto me, the rough bear,

profaneher pretty lipswith.'

life
to

'

Her

kinsman,'continued
Nothingless,

the potter.
Cestus.

'The

same

Balbus

CHAP.

whom

TALE

ix.

knew

you

wealth.

as

I acted

feathered

my

ROME

ANCIENT

201

of great estates
master, was a man
kind of bailiff for him in Rome,

my
a

as

nest

OF

indeed.
fairly

very

this

Balbus,a young man,

worldlygoods. In the course

and

There

was

very well off as

this person and
of events

grown to be very intimate and

in which I had served him
matters

confidential

and

kinsman

not

had

and

of

regards
myself

various little

over

the

sly. He was well born,

well spoken,and well dressed
a gentleman born and bred; but,
at heart,as great a
as
scamp
any footpad and cut-throat that
haunts the roadside.
Being only very moderatelysuppliedwith
in his own
his mind
dwelt upon
right,
money,
very naturally
which
the enormous
flowed annuallyinto the coffers
amount
of his kinsman, old Balbus,my master.
It is a weakness
of
human
to speculateconcerning
nature, Masthlion,for a poor man
on

"

rich kinsman.

But this youngster had

subtle brain

beyond his years, and was not content to speculate. To wait

be
to wait and
on
chance,in his case, was, in all probability,
better ; for,had he even
been the next heir,his kinsman,
no
Balbus,although got into years, was hale and hearty,and as
bad enough ; but what made
it
tough as leather. That was
for his hopes,he was
the direct heir. There
not
worse
was
life between

one

all the
all

more

that

my

him

and

what

he schemed

for.

closelyand

tenderly watched

old

Balbus

master

had

That

one

because

left him.

it

Of

was
was

all his

familynothing remained to him but this one life a daughter's

daughter; the mother, the last of his children,had died in
like an
old oak, with this
givingit birth,and he was left,
That
slipbudding beside him.
slip,as I sit
young
young
here before you, Masthlion,is the girl
who calls you father.'
The potter sat still. His gaze was
with painconcentrated
ful
the
His
c
lenched
on
the
table
like
intensity
speaker.
fingers
his breast heaved
and fell in a tumult of emotion.
a vice,and
You can
continued Cestus.
easily
supplythe rest,'
"

'

Masthlion

his breast.
himself

true, and
rose

His

heart swelled

his mouth
open
he felt it was, the

in his mind's

old man,
a

to

without

nodded

eye

"

and his head fell on

speaking,
to bursting. He
dare not trust

to

utter

figureof

his Nesera's

haughty,stern,

extendinga profferedreward

loftycondescension

which

sound.

could

not

and
be

and

If

this

was

grandparent
aristocratical

politethanks with
mistaken

for any-

NEMRA

202

thingbut

PART

II.

final dismissal ; and

there,beside him, the child

in her rich robes,seeming too full of delightat the
herself,
noveltyand pleasureof her new
positionto think very seriously
of her separationfrom the old.
He
picturedhimself refusing
the proffered
gold,and turningaway to go back to his desolate
and darkened
hearth,far away and forgottenfor ever.
His fancy was
and his sensibilities as keen
as
a
warm,
sensitive woman's.
The
of such a scene
as
probability
this,
which
his brain, was
leaped so swiftlyand vividlyacross
much
for his nature
His throat pained
almost too
to bear.
its way into his eyes ; so
to burn
him, and the water seemed
he sank his head graduallylower until his brow rested on the
a

table.

Well, the

'

enough after what I have

naturally
of his
heed
said,'continued
Cestus, seemingly taking no
The
I speak of could
the
act
man
companion.
young
and
hypocriteto a nicety. He was clever-tongued,
sociable,
himself agreeableto his kinsman,
took great pains to make
old Balbus, who was, in many
things,as simple as a child,so
that they were
always very great friends and companions,
which was
a
great help to the plan which had to be carried
It was
out.
simple,and the first step was, as I need
very
hardly tell you, the making away of the child which stood in
I cannot
of a man,
his path. I know
set myselfup as a model
that my
heart was
follows will show
but what
considerably
softer in the grainthan this young
which, if it exists
serpent's,
is like granite. It was
which I doubt
bad enough to
at all
of the only brat remaining,for he was
rob the old man
so
wrapped up in it used to sport with it and tend it like a
and
was
scarcelyable to allow it out of his sight.
woman,
the child then, potter a yellow-haired
You remember
big-eyed
who cared
a fool of any
man
youngster, and enough to make
credit to myself for
for such toys. Well, kinsman, I take no
No doubt it was
the part I acted.
rascally
enough, but I have
doubt in my mind
consciously,
whatever, that what I did, although unno
lifeand position.
of savingthe girl's
the means
was
rest

comes

'

"

"

"

"

Had

I refused the

of
temptation

and
have taken my place,
which
to the letter,
were
cut

itsthroat,
smother

would
to

his

other tool would

bribe,some

have carried

out

his instructions

stranglethe youngster,

it,or anythingto

drown

silence it for ever.'

it,

CHAP.

The

'

TALE

ix.

monster

'

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

exclaimed

203

Masthlion, raisinghis head and

'

'

shudderingwith horror ; and but a youth too ?

head.
repliedCestus, but with a serpent's
Only a youth,'
As
I said,we
had grown
account
to be very confidential on
commissions
I had
of some
quietlydone for him, and he
graduallybegan to sound me with a view to gettingmy help
'

'

in his

to terms.

to kill the

was

handsome

very

that did not

It

matter.

was

and
willing,

we

soon

he

to

give me

child,and
he

requiredno

was

it I don't

raised

small amount

child

away

without

able to do

it to

my

get the

passed ere

me

Where

sum.

skill to

and

found

operations.He

came
a

know, but

patience

of

weeks

notice,and

satisfaction.

There

was

to leave the least

so
as
doing the thing desperately
at last,and I managed to
suspicion. A favourable time came
take the child away without attracting
the least attention ; but
make
I could never
up my mind to kill it,so I leftit in secret
and
safe hands
for a few weeks, and then begged leave of
no

in

use

absence

make

to

visit. That

bringthe child here,where

her again. I told a tale to
the child
remains

so,

Balbus

us.

sightin

far

master
young
marsh, and he

my

she is

as

to
"

see

how

hear of

or

I drowned

satisfied; and

was

to this

without

went

in the

foremost

was

to

day. So far all

slightest
attachingto
suspicion

concerned,

the

not

was

thought

never

it was

you, and

to

nearlyout of his mind, and money,

My
spent in searchingafter the lost brat.

end, was
master

as

There

well.

was

of

out

visit was

hunt, of

course,

I have

and

young
heard

bless him

Not a littleof the wasted

a time.
many
went, as I know, into his purse at last ; for it grew to
money
for cunningrogues to say they had found
be a common
practice

the old

man

the whereabouts

of the

given,and
freely

of

to

him

good

young

some

many

of them

I have

price.

all such

reason

It

was

nothingbut disappointment.
got this business

master

hands, and

deal with.

to

in

ended

course

time my
into his own
entirely
After

child,and then demand

to

transferred

discoveries

left

were

believe he invented

himself,and always took

own
fingers. And so he

the best part of

waited until the

into his
the money
he has
old man
should die ; and has waited until now, because
the pluck to finish the business promptly,and get the old
not
man

out

courage

of the way
as

as

well

as

the child.

cunning,he might have

been

Had

he had

in
rolling

as

much

the wealth

of

NE"RA

204

these

Balbus
so

to

screw
years ; but he cannot
and
hopes for old Saturn

ten

dallies on,
the fool !
help him

he

His

"

for the lost

spent in searching
went

with him.

to

About

from

master, begging me
my young
I readilygot leave and went
commission
on

city,whither

the

by a gang
however,

left in

it,I

have

would

was

since have

discovered

to

me

remove

saddened

old

his

well

the
be

as

done, and,

revenged on

luck

as

here

My

Balbus

am.

white-livered
paltry,

walks

cleverly
got
him.

rid

shall

He

will befriend

me,

traps will confirm

few
own

is

master

young
he has

These
her

I have

of the world.

out

hale.

girlwill get

The

matter.

life,

was

taken
charge of. I
up and
that the whole was
only a cunning plot

sister Tibia.

my

beset

was

There

about, relieved in the thought that

of me, who
knew
enough to utterlyconfound
be disagreeably
surprised.You, kinsman,
as

gave

picked

but

man,

account,

had

they

my

all this time

been

he

on

knowledge
and
recovering,

and

He

see

be

left for dead.

when

me

his house.

to

to

professedto
very
night late,in a lonelypart of

my way one
I had
gone

and
ruffians,

of

Rome

repairto

to

execute, which

to

Whilst

secret.

his

of late years has almost

his country estates, and
dwell on
"six months ago I received a letter

me

pluck,
scythe

prudent farming of the funds

has considerably
improved
one

took

me

his

up
and

; but the matter

his stock of money

Balbus
died out.

him.

n.

PAST

again,and

knave

ever

as

I shall

stepped

the earth.'

ceased, and a long pause ensued.

? said Masthlion
Is all this truth,kinsman

Cestus
'

'

'

That

shall

you

presentlyknow

beyond

all

length.
doubt,'replied
at

the Suburan.
'

It

all

seems

so

strange

to

'

The

nobly born.'
grandchildof a senator,

'

Ah

me

think

that my

Neasra

should

to be

prove

!'

no

less ! '

sighed the potter dejectedly

;

'

then

are

we

parted indeed.'
and
between the Centurion
That questionof difference,
her, will trouble you no longer,kinsman,'said Cestus.
Nothing will trouble me now concerningher,except that
her more
I shall never
care,
see
; she has passed beyond my
alas ! said Masthlion,with deep emotion.
'

'

'

CHAP.

is

Take

balm

Masthlion,

with

the

he

child's

added,

tenderly

she

has

as

I will drink

'

she

both

remarked

that

ponder

But, until

it

this secret.

we

Not

it

is

ripe

word

have

can

lovinglyand

as

the

for the

other

'

stored
re-

rest, I cannot
and

cups,

has

given

Cestus

something

you
to

more

child, or

to

presently.

say

act, potter, you

the

to

and

in bed.

some

to

drink
'

roof.'

their

down

was

to-night;

time

the

doubt, but,

he

it

'

"

welfare

tended

pleasure,'cried

set

time

be

'

cup

future

this humble

with

and

his

up

her

she

May

without

was

and

under

that

drank

and

over,

been

be,

for

'Enough

smile, filled

pause,

Cestus

feelings.'

restoration

to

shall

say.'
They

sad

205

wine, kinsman,' observed

of

'

ROME

for scratched

happy

after

ANCIENT

OF

draught

wonderful

to

TALE

ix.

keep

must

all

to

your

wife, until

to

wait

long yet.'

fit

time.'
I will

'

'

not

it,kinsman,

Swear

broke

'

'

Enough

those

never

word

to

Cestus

red

keep
livingsoul.

still

find

time

and

embers,

and,

on

'

Roll

up

life,breathe

your
'

Good-night !
pallet bed upstairs,but

the

fire for

long time
his

arrived, and

musing

and

The

fire had

the

proudly.

you,' said Cestus.

from

time.

to

Masthlion

to

missing

him

have

may

safe ;

his

to

hours

small

husband
to

from

them

sittingbefore
The

we

I will trust

departed

remained

her

for

word,' said

my

; then

and

traps
a

Masthlion.

not,' answered

room

His

was

her

wife

side.

in

but

and

down
the

tion.
reflecfind

to

stole

sighing, deeply
chilly;

deep

awoke

She

smouldered

Masthlion

stairs
down-

heavily,
to

heartsore

few
man

wondering
on
followed
roused
him, and
quietlyto bed, but not to sleep.
Tibia
and
saw
instinctivelythat something was
she,
wrong,
ascribed
that
just as swiftly,
something to her brother ; but,
failingto gain anything satisfactory
by her inquiries,she wisely
did

not

know.

wife's

he

allowed

the

matter

to

slumber

the while.

hand

his

shoulder

CHAPTER

had
DUSKreturned

had

to

his

in brilliant

departed
;

alreadyfallen

but

the

Suburan

been

had

island and

on

quarters

with

no

to

far from

saw

Jovis.

He

welcome

exact

; added

settled

had

brightest
anticipations

realised,and his
unexpected advent

means

the failure of his purpose

his union with Neaera had

villa
the

Martialis

sea, when

been

not

untimely and
by

the

at

and
spirits,

latter had
The

suffered.

X.

to

mood
of the

which,
for

arrangement

further irritated and

annoyed him.
The
of the laughing,
lieved
partingcaress
lovelygirlhad hardly rehis chafingspirit,
and the journey home
was
performed
violent
The
at a prodigiousspeed both
by land and sea
exertion
but his mood
was
allayed the sting of his feelings,
smooth

of Plautia

from

when
the

he

lifted the

and

table,where

the

slave

ill-fated missive

Lygdus had finally

left it.
His

first

exclamation, as

and
back

on

turn, and

the

to

he

and
irritable,
table.

lifted it

In

its brief lines,was

he read
he

threw

another

again for

the

impatiently
its
had
curiosity

paper

moment

further

temptuous
con-

examination.

The

handwriting furnished him with no clue to the writer, and

he was
equallyat a loss to imagine who could have occasion
him
in such
for summoning
He
a
mysterious manner.
in doubt
remained
whether
he should
give the anonymous
epistleany further attention or not; but his little chamber
seemed
oppressive to him, and his ruffled thoughts inclined
towards
might relieve and turn their
any occupation which
current.

He

being

in

scarcelythought it necessary
utter ignorance of what
kind

invited to,

moment's

to

arm

himself; but,

of entertainment

reflection told him

he

had

he

best be

was
on

CHAP.

TALE

x.

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

207

flexible cuirass
He, therefore,put on a light,
his tunic,and took a sword, of the usual short,straight

the safe side.

under

his cloak.

pattern, under

Roman

took

more

the

his

quitof
The

down

way

dark, cheerless

had

noticed
particularly

was

of

chalky formation,and

on

south

prepared he
landing,glad

once

be

to

rooms.

she

the

to

rock, which

white

Thus

Plautia had
her

on

was
specified,

from

way

boat.

the

embedded

was

one

in the

It

side

of

which
the rough path wound
eminence, around
craggy
below.
This
the narrow
littlebeach
its way down
to

an
eminence, which was
irregularspur of a hill,was very
with trees
and
underwood
of
rough, and thicklycovered
all kinds, thus
affordingan excellent shelter,which, in
with our
accordance
story,had alreadybeen taken advantage
the other side of the footway was
of.
On
only a narrow

stripof

descent
a precipitous
turf,fringing

green

the

to

sea

below.
and the young
shed a
moon
Night had now
quitefallen,
The
Centurion
crescent.
hazy lightfrom its narrow
paced
the outer
on
onward, keeping instinctively
leisurely
edge of
the path,and from under the shadow
of the rocks and brushwood
which

in the land

walled

side.

He

well muffled

was

up

in his

largecloak, and, whilst his hand kept a ready grasp of

his sword
beneath,his eyes maintained the keenest scrutiny
of every objectand shadow
as he paced along. Not
a sound
except the

movement,

nor

the

short

and

he had

limestone

turf,broke

mossy

arrived

now

; there

all.

mass

feet

own

perfectrepose

oppositethe

he

'

was

of

of white

the

listened in vain
of the

murmur

sea

spot,

chalk

or

the
a

pointed
apcurious

for

few

below, and

of the

nightbreeze ever and anon, and that

! he muttered
Um
doubtfully.
out
of the black shadow
spoke, something moved

rock.

form, that it was

possessionof
space, and

the faint

and

on

'

and
thicket,

the chalk

looked

He

the fitful breath

of

his

question. Concluding that this was

place,he stopped and waited,whilst he cast

moments

As

the

of

in

glance around.

was

lightfall

him

stood
He
a

partlyathwart the ghostlywhite face of

perceived,by the flow of drapery on the

woman,

than

findingthat

and
ever.

and
surprise
He

remained

the strange

wonder

took

motionless

figuredid

not

more

for

move,

he

208

NE"RA

PART

II.

steppedforward two or three steps ; upon which the mysterious

shape drew back into the dark shadow of the thicket whence
it had appeared.
'

This

is the white

rock,'said the Pretorian

'

who

wants

me?'
his voice fell quietly
on

As

forth and

came

confronted

air the female

the calm

figure

him.

'Martian's !' said the voice

of

Plautia,with

faint tremor

in its rich tones.

He
he

started and

replied.

know
you

her

'

is my

That

come?

me

with me,

I
and

name,'
to

seem

who

may

kind

and

'

'

Accept the gratefulthanks

ready obedience to her wish.'
'

keenly.

it you who
bade
What
can
you want

'Was

voice.

your

be ?

scanned

Plautia

you

"

here !

"

of Plautia for your

And

yet I

was

of the voice !'

sure

he muttered.
She
to

put back

him

full in the

the

hood

of her

light. He

cloak,and turned

surveyed,indeed,to

her face

his intense

astonishment,the beautiful face of the adventurous

damsel;
the
feeble
of
the
thin
and, although
overlaid with
moon
rays
their own
wan
palenessthe tell-tale tints of her rich flooding
liance
cheeks,they rather,on the other hand, lit up the liquidbrilof her dark
of her

cloak, and

warm
spirited,

this

Her
white
eyes.
rested gently on

hand
his

the
impressionable,

and

stole from

the folds

Young, high-

arm.

look and

soft touch

of

thrilled him

through in despiteof himself;

triflecloser,
and his form stretched aloft

lovelywoman

lipsclosed a
imperceptibly.

but his
almost

'Yes, 'tis I, Plautia!' she murmured, with her haughty

head drooping downward, and her hand falling
from his arm
at

the
'I

as

am

of

name

this

"

'

time.

same

No

'But

wonderstruck

!' he

how
heaven, Plautia,
such
matter

place as

you

come

came

; I

alone ?'

colder

tone; 'in the

be in such

to

here

am

incomprehensible

'No.'
Did

"

long?'
'

in

you
this island ?'

how, Centurion

yet it is

said

"

have

that is
you

spot

enough.'

been

here

CHAP.

'

as

ANCIENT

OF

ROME

said it is enough that

have

will

you

TALE

x.

oblige me

not

ask you

to

209

here, Centurion

am

not

be

to

uncourteous

so

questionfurther?'

to

'I

to

am,

island

this

of

guard

certain

the

grimly,'and

much

bird

renders

to

Caesar,'he
of

presence

these

rocks

departure of

or

careful

replied rather
stranger

naturallycurious.

me

from

or

arrival

less the

of

retreat

unexpected

Argus-eyed shores
of
flight

extent, responsiblefor the

passes

its

on

the

Scarce
unnoticed

"

individual without

an

authority.'
know

'

How

'

Because

should

become

honourable

island.

it

were

have

here

am

without

otherwise,it is

more

have

cannot

this

known

for

me

No.

'

If

are

ward.

long

without

at

least

been

that you
in whatever
discovery,

rest

content

will

you

this

been

Did

send

you

all you tell me.

I am
here in secret.'
of that, it mocks
watch
sure
and
our

I know
you
But

no

delay,

likely. If it be so, quit the

is fraughtwith danger to such as you.
It must
be so.'
to help you ?

'

have
you
spot without

or

"

misled, most
for it

authority?'
that
likely

than

acquaintedwith the fact ; and because

would
openly seek the pollutedair of

woman

You

that I

you

tell

decoyed here,

or

me

whether

nook

thing

one

hope

cannot

"

remain

you have found ;

whether
have
you
of your

came

you

to

own

free

will/
'

Of

'It

my
is

have

must

extraordinary
impelledyou.'
"

'Of the
'

'

'

most

vital

and

your

you begrudge me
Thus
far surelynot.'
Have

'

Good

The

no

of

matter

to

"

you summoned
affairs?'

Do

'

some

importance

then have

Why

to you

free will.'

own

me,

the time and

huge importance

me.'
a

comparativestranger
trouble ?'

fear that I will interfere with your

Then
I am
at your
disposal.'

breast of the

duty.'

lady heaved and fluttered unwontedly ;

her native characteristics of haughty self-possession
had given
unusual
to
and
tremor
an
discomposure ; and this in
way
the presence
of a Centurion
only a simple soldier. She
whom
the crowd
of the highest and
mightiest in Rome
"

NE"RA

2io

had

dangled around,

hue

or

sudden
drew
the

shame

whit

and

raisingher

accustomed

cheek

the faster.

flashed
braced

across

its

change

Then,
her

if

as

mind,

his with

to

nonchalance.

which

bravado

to

n.

she

quiveringlimbs, at

her

countenance

imperious

piece of

empty

an

throb

to

ample form,

time

her

causingher

for her weakness

her

up
same

at

heart

her

without

PART

she

But

it

unable

was

effort

an

proved
to

tain.
sus-

remained
despite his expectant curiosity,
motionless,cold,and unsympathetic,and she shrank
again before him, with trembling joints and down-dropped

The

young

head, like

man,

from

the

hard

to
friendly

these

leapingwave

stern

face of

rock.
uncertain

The
and

lightwas

shrouded

them

far from

tion,
signsof perturba-

his

to
as
observation,
merely impress his mind with the idea that they were nothing
the symptoms
of a littlehesitation.
A slight
noise among
save
the rocks of the hillside struck their ears, and they both turned
to

so

listen.
'What
But

nothing

was

all

was

but

an

that?'

she

as

quiet

whispered.
grave ; it might have been
it prowled in
stone
a
as
displacing

animal

the

as

of prey, and thus Martialis replied.

into the shade,' she said
Come
more

search
'

her

hand

may

see

once
us

more

brushwood

arm

hurriedly,laying
chance passer-by

some

here.'

followed

He

his

upon

'

her

which

threw
carelessly

few

lined

the

his cloak

leave his

into the

paces

path, and,

from

at

shadow
the

of

the

time,

same

his

rightshoulder,so as to
unhampered. It was a significant

rightarm free and

action to the initiated,
and seemed
to say, that his explanation
of the slight
of the probable cause
noise in the bushes was not
exactlyin accordance with his inmost conviction.
The
quick eye and wit of Plautia perceivedit,and she
said reproachfully,Are
You
afraid,Centurion ?
are
you
'

!'

armed
She

felt the

'

to

had, in passingher
hilt of the

which

with me,
weapon
afraid,I think I may

I have

being

sword

hand

the

over

he

held

he
truly,'
say

am

folds of his
in his grasp
answered

'

nothing more

cloak,
neath.
under-

but

as

than

CHAP.

x.

TALE

OF

cautious,as we soldiers
admit,Plautia,that I am
myself somewhat

ANCIENT

211

trained to be.

are

neither
;

ROME

You

foolish in paring
prereceives a request

blamable

for,when

in

surely

must

nor

man

after
mysteriousmanner,
dark, in an unfrequented spot, he is only actingprudently
when
he does as I have done.
It might have been
a throatfor all that I could tell. There
are
even
cuttingassignation
have cared to attend
who would
some
not, probably,
persons
to

meet

unknown

an

person,

at all.'

has brought you

who
do you think
now
you know
that I would lead you premeditatedly
into harm?'
'
No !
I know
of no
earthlyreason
why you should do
'But

"

such

your

wrath

I have

thing.
or

and

revenge,

such

thing could

enter

never

mind.'

your
'

There

is not

side,believe

my

Whether

it

soul here

thus that I asked

your

but you
The
presence.

I, and it was

and
toil

the

"

danger

the

was

in which

it would

grew steadier and more

sought and claspedthemselves

'

'

last

night,

was

it you

'

"

No

with that

contact

other

my
of the wretch, and

this haunt
Martialis

and

?'

I and

placed

"

withdrew
it in

his

bosom

Do

Speak, Martialis
'

It would
that

endured

even

the

landing,in secret,

from

with

her

enclosingfingers,

haughty gesture.
with

eloquent movement

you think
of that vile slave of Tiberius
!

and

thus obtained

his hand

herself up at this
her imperious fierceness.
What

slave dared

of Caesar.'

reared

'

on

they stood

land
speaking rapidlyand fervently
me
;
you saw
and in what company.'
Last night!' said Martialis,
starting. What
came

is

sinewyfingers.
upon his brown
toil and the danger,'she repeated,

'Yes, Centurion,the

'

be

gave her
be hard to say, but her low rich
and both her white hands
fervent,

shade

tones

who

to

Centurion.'

me,

increased confidence

on

merit

anythingto

done

never
certainly

that I
?

came

I, Plautia

as

one

do

"

flash of

of the
you

She

train

think it ?

!'

be

Plautia

returned
voyagers,'

the
had

easier and
embarked

the Centurion

lieve
probable thing to bein ignorance of her fellowcalmly.

more

NEJERA

212

'Yet
'it

did

why
even

was

as

draw

you

from
It

you

say.
for landing on
the

another

FART

me?'

was

an

island,and
instructions,
knowing nothing further.
here

purpose
'
You

"

and
lair,
tiger's

hither is a creature
of
you
fattens on his patronage.'
'

dare

He

fawningly;
expedientarranged by
I simply followed my
achieved

It has

the

my

who

conducted

vile

reptilewho

man

Caesar, and

his trust, knowing who

break

not

said

!'

am

in the

are

she

II.

him

gave

his

charge.'
'

can

abate

not

will be

that

is

There
in

time

no

the

name

trust

to

person is ; nevertheless it does

jot. I dare swear
your secrecy
in a few hours
perhaps even
"

be

put in such

straits between

puttingthe

commend

me

same

opinion one

my

hardly worth

now.
no

who

guess

Whatever

you.
hither,despatch it at

once

you

and

business

has

this

"

wretch.

Lose

the

let
island,
brought you

night should

see

you

away

if possible.'
'

I have

'

Because

no

fear.'

ignorantof

are

you

the

danger

air
pestilential

you, of all people in the world, the

of this island is fraughtwith dire peril.'
To

such

'

as

not, for I

care

'Your

'

believe
of little jesting,

of

voice which

let

me

answer

Caesar

exhibited

to

know

in what

whether

drop

upon

can

be

safeguard in as sorry a plightas

right well, Plautia,and you

your
know

with effective
of your

cause

gravity. I

neither

ask

to

of

now

us

"

am

serve

help.
you

delivered

here

at

you, and
Were
the

would

find

That

the

desire to

patience
im-

stern

am

yourself.

nor

me,' said

of

amount

an

wastingpreciousmoments

are

you

request
your
I will at once
hand

vtithyou.'

am

positionadmits

Martialis,in

in.

stand

you

you

raillery

know

the

in this spot, but my

wish me
assist you to
to

extraordinarypresence

is
apprehension certainly

that you

leave.'
'

Your

apprehensionis wrong,' repliedthe

Roman

beauty,

hither
barely to be heard; 'I came
impelledby a feelingagainstwhich it was impossibleto strive.
It urged me
through the hideous fatigueand disgustof the
and it upholds me, undismayed, at the presence
voyage hither,
in

low,

nervous

tones,

CHAP.

TALE

x.

OF

ANCIENT

ROME

213

danger. You impress upon me that I am beset with dire

I can
well believe it ; but I am
careless
peril. It may be so
of it. Fear I never
knew, and in this hour of all it can find
of

"

less

than

room

Her

in my

ever

sank

head

strugglewith

heart.'

down, and her murmured

her hurried

words

breathing,
begot by

seemed

to

state of extreme

tremor.

The

he remained
thicket

brows, and,

in silent embarrassment.
to
friendly

was

symptoms
in

drank

ears

knitted his

Centurion

affair of
seemed

not

of

to

Sejanus,he

sufficient to

make

his mind

under

island

the

the
what

uneasy

ward
out-

his
and

impressionthat

probably due to
intrigue,
and, indeed, if her explanationhad
so
fullyconfirm the protectionor connivance
would
have arrived at that conclusion,
at once

the well-known

from

The

companion,and shrouded
from his glance,but
feelings

suspicious.He had reallybeen

his companion'spresence
in the
some

few moments,
deep shade of the
a

his

of her
was

for

fact of her

was

intimacywith

him.

In

pectation,
ex-

in which

of some
therefore,
political
plan or plot
she required him
to join,he
had been
anxious to bringthe
interview to an
to entangle himself
end, being utterlyaverse
in anythingof the kind,or even
the chance
of being
to run
discovered in her company.
But now
he was as littledisposed
force the matter
to
to
a
conclusion,as before he had been
ally,
anxious,and, in uncomfortable
doubt, he began, very naturhimself to be so carelessly
to chafe
for having allowed
led into such a position.Had
he only been prudent enough
to consider,he might have at once
concluded
that nothing
but mischief lay planted between
the lines of an
mous
anonyletter.
But

appear

the

lady vouchsafed
quite unconscious

words, he

to

of artlessness and

manner

to

hastened

stave

off

no

of

break

other

speech,and, anxious to
particularpurport in her
any
the silence,in an
assumed

which
lightness,

unpleasant subject and

an

is often
to

used, alike

play with

one

as

delightful.
'

Fear,

unaccustomed
to
assured,is a weakness
'
he
if
I gatherrightly
from your words,
your breast,' said, and,
you
sex,

confess
to

the

well

am

be

in

less than the rest

subjection,
no
passion which they say rules feminine

to

of your
nature.

NE"RA

214

Nevertheless
had

wish, on

this

occasion,for

sake, fear

own

your

n.

a little.'
tempered curiosity

!' she
'Curiosity
voice

sank

with passionatescorn
j then her
intonation.
nervous
'And
yet I

returned

its former

to

said false,
when
Martialis,

thought I

was

found

out.'

me

'No

proof,
"

yet whim,
'

Have

might

again.

'

not

as
rapidly,

business of Prefect,nor

ing
halt-

some

of

Caesar, nor
heart and thee, Martialis,

seen?

Do

months

ere

not

you

he uttered

see?'

not

you

'

Plautia

'It

of my
fearlessness. I
thus far without it,and now, lo,it has

but only my
curiosity,

nor

Lucius

I boasted

!'she continued

no

commonplace,
"

PART

have

been

Rome

could

see

you

The

it. My
void.
I loathed
house
city seemed
turned
to
a
dungeon. My occupationspalled upon

seemed
I

distasteful. I was
was
no
weary, and everything
longermistress of myself,and where my mind dwelt, thither I
me.

was

fated

was

hermitage of
were

near

am

I have

What

could

stay me?

Not

yet the risk of the lynx-eyedwarders

nor
fatigue,

what

follow.

to

Caesar.

Where

thousand

and

come

"

I confess

of this

rocky

the will is there is the way, and

the obstacles in the way of mine ?

times

thee,Martialis

toil and

I have

accomplished

to thee the reason,

and

my
I

purpose.
a woman.

apportionthe voice,and to me the

you the world would
silence ; but I own
no
law, no guide,but you and the promptings
of my
heart. I have broken
the cold forms and
own

To

rules which

pardon.
alter it,or
woman

blame

you

than

now

sway

Could
stirred had

woman's

Wherefore

unsought

but

no

You

before ?

chide

cannot

I have

her

crave

Could

my

"

heart to

my
it has

no

lips
I less

Am

me.

bared

breast,

excuse

I hide the truth ?

should
it?

within

secret

it is stilla woman's, and

but
Martialis,
any

risk of her life. I make

at the

even

bind

thee,

bent

never

to

yours.'

the

young

he

been

soldier's
a

mariner

have

senses

of

been

more

old, rousinghimself

subtly
in his

boat to listen to the fatal,

ditties of a siren
sweet
idly-floating
into his ears through the tranquil,
yellow mist of
song stealing

evening?
He
of her

felt his hand

within
imprisonedtightly

soft,white palms.

Her

breath

the

played upon

warm

his

grasp

cheek,

CHAP.

x.

and

the

TALE

OF

of their

gloom

leafyshelter

star-like lustre of her

in the

drank
her

ANCIENT

tones
rich,thrilling

form, with
glorious

of her attire welled

of

very essences
touch, the eloquent

The

shadowy,

delicate fumes
perinvaded his faculties
The

him, and
her overpowering loveliness.

around

like the

hide the

not

passion.

of

excess

could

215

upturned to his. His ears

like
of her voice,quivering,

close

eyes

ROME

motions, the soft abandon

of this

: the
nomenon
phesuperb womanhood
strange, bewitching
of her haughty imperiousness
whelming
sinkinginto the oversubmission
tender
flood of passionate love and
His senses
seemed
beglamoured his mind.
overcharged. As
he reared his
one
might seek relief from a choking sensation,
head backwards, with a deep, noiseless breath,and
swept his

of

creature

his shoulder

eyes athwart

and
Extraordinary
it

night was,
might be.

was

in the dark

sky;

dream-like
the

was

and

the

experience of that
he began to think it
as
bright and tranquil
moon,

horned

there

star-litheavens.

and

sea

his whole

as

such
illusion,

no

There

round

the track of its silvery

radiance

was

The
waters
below.
dancing on the softly-rippling
night-air,
his head, and a soft,
too, palpablyrustled the leaves around
It was
quivered through him.
velvetytouch at that moment
the delicate pressure of her ripe,warm
It
lipson his hand.
the Pretorian

awoke
mist

of

have

remained

himself

to

which

sweetness

sensuous

"

Rome

and
could

with
the
But

surrender

show,

human

nature,

phlegmaticcoldness
Plautia

had

cast

such

have
even

and

been
on

the

before

by

beauty

all in

to renounce

part of
one

the soft

of female

of a
self-possession

herself

To

tion
passionaterevela-

rested unmoved

of the richest wealth

would

brief

the
away
enthralled him.

had

wholly indifferent to

of the loveliest lips to have

contact

brushed

and

one

bred

northern

born

to

the

mon
com-

with
clime.
same

native characteristics of ardent and

impulsiveblood as herself,
equal degree of intensity.With

though not perhaps in an

his pulsesyet tingling
he recalled,
by a flash of thought,all
the evident signs of pleasureand satisfactionwith which she
had hitherto greeted his presence
when
chance
had
thrown
them
togetherfor a brief period. Her relaxed haughtiness,
smiles were
her glances and
it seemed, only too well
now,
and pretexts for comfraughtwith real meaning. Her excuses
panionship,
and

hundred

littlearts, which

had

never

caused

2i6

NE/ERA

him

thought

more

latest evidence

In

with

common

natural process of a
her by the standard
hearts.
to
more

and

He

down
gratification,

all,in the giftshe had

of

magnificent beauty

her

amused

an

supplemented and

now

were

than

PART

the
of

the

to the

the

to

had

admired

form, and, by

love,he

had

camp,

startling
ation.
explanhe

Rome

and

maiden

of the

found

of

rest

face

in

man

with

concluded

sent

ii.

criticised

often

as

most

in his heart of

enthroned

morally and physically,

be wellnighcomplete. As before,but now
with tenfold
distance
vividness,his mind spanned the intervening
dwelt upon
the fair girlhe had
left but a short time

before.

ever

contrast,

like the sudden

It acted

transition from

the sive
oppressteeped in narcotic odours, to the

glow of a tropicdream
Neaera's
waking freshness and cool reliefof a breezy dawn.
image, ever ready to his invocation,rose before him in its
ness,
changelesspurityand sweetness, its noble dignityand calmand purged his spirit
of the grosser intoxication which
it.

burdened

yet his mind

While

it was
reflections,

and

him.

before

He

how

thought

was

she,who

to
everything

follow him

as

she

she could

was

accept he

entire innocence
Such

doomed

was

was

emotions
fleeting

pain

and

chivalrous ; and
simple
could command
so
much, had
to this

spot for the sake of

with

dread,

self-willed

and

woman

he

as

dared

an

tunate
unfor-

pain and pity

all the

"

disappointment. The only return

unable to make, and the fact of his

to

brought him

the main

with

of the

nature

attachment, his heart ached

more

such

vaguelyburdened

of the vehement

account

on

agitated
by

was

no

current

comfort.
of his

thoughts in

the short

the passionate
words of Plautia.
In
pause which followed on
his simple,soldier way, he would rather have been summoned
than be under
the necessity
of
to face a legion single-handed
to the
administeringthe coup-de-grace

of

Her

woman.

againsthis
'

Would
'

You

posture

was

at

dearest

the

and

wishes

half-reclining

moment

breast.

are

she
silent,'
cruelly

you have me
have done
You

murmured

say more?'
me
great honour

"

in his

ear.

great and

answered,stammering with embarrassment

such a surprise. If I am
prepared to meet

he

hopes

'

'

Shame

unexpected,'
but I

confused

was

not

there is

CHAP.

x.

an

OF

thought

for it

excuse

That

TALE

I should

and

"

held

have

ROME

ANCIENT

yet, no

21?

I do

"

in your regard is almost

be little surprisedto discover

such

place

and I should
belief,
that Plautia is beguiling
a tedious evening with
I shall laugh with as much
zest as herself.'

beyond

my

brave

'O
'

how

and

frolic for
I

am

to

about

go

If so,

thee, if thou hast

convince

to

frolic.

cried vehemently;

wit !' she

shallow

know.

not

not

alreadybeen convinced ? Do I merit no worthier words than

those,Martian's?'
said the Centurion.
'If I am
'I made
no
assertion,'
answerable
for my
utterances
just for the time, I probably
meant

no

than

more

of astonishment
this

effectively
my feelings

pointout more
to
as
incredulity

to

and

has

what

befallen

me

night.'

passed,'she said, in a low voice, and

herself again closelyto him.
inclining
'Though surprised,
it be
so
Lucius, why unbelieving? Can
beyond belief?
Had
hideous, deformed, and as vile in mind
as
you been
'

person,

time

that

But

base

"

has

slave,it had been then

negro, or Numidian
! But thank the gods for being what you are

wonder

to

then

why

do

'What

is

hearts
Would

"

of

brother

my

Caius?'

said he, with

sterner

in his voice.

accent

'

yourself? Have women

impenetrable as granite? Have
plead? No
you have me
you

!'

cannot

'

undervalue

so

you
the eyes of bats and
said enough ?
I not
"

of him

What
He

why,

"

loves you

of him

what

he is infatuated

nay, more,

"

?'
with

It

you.

publicknowledge.'
'And

wished

never

driven

have

it

nor

him

'

desired it.
from

but

me,

can

It is

never

any force compel me.'

If it be his
You say true.
there

return

is

Plautia, stands
more

Can

you
I have

away

task for himself.

it,nor

blame?

help his misfortune?

Can

I to

am

than
The

no

law

good

himself

Centurion

or

same

I have

him.

I would

scorned
he would

misfortune

help

all.

to

him.

Poor

driven.

be

not

impossible.
him, nor can

own

force to

between

in the

love

reproach me?

It must
he

be

demand

love without

The

same

Caius ! there

law,
are

'

unhappy plight.

gentlywithdrew

his hand

from

beneath

hers,

2i8

NE^LRA

PABT

ii.

and, turninghalf aside toward

his breast.

alarmed

hands

Her

contracted

his

on

in

are

you

his

profile. The deep gravityof

gratedominouslyon her mind.

her and

'But

the sea, folded his arms

across
fell down
before her, and her eyes

such

no

said,with

she

wretchedness?'

manner

painfulearnestness.
I

'

! the

no

"

gods

be

thanked,
gladly.

almost lightly
and
quickly,
Then
why speak so meaningly?

Such

'

replied
truth

common

it.'

hardlyneeded

respond,but remained

did not

He

it,'he

far from

stolidly
gazingover

the

cliffsupon the sea.

'
Will you not speak ? ' she said,
after a pause.
He turned upon her and took her hand.
'
this spot. It
I would
to
come
never
Plautia,
you had
had been better if you had never
left home.
Return
at once.
Let

you safelyaway, this nightif possible.'

the limestone
face grew as ghastlywhite
as

see

me

Her

in the

bathed

her heart and

catchingher

to

be

deadly sickness

her faculties for

numbed

wish

'You

'

moonlight,and
quit of

me

you

"

"

caught her

reared

and
'

her breast,
away and struck it against
ominous
silence.
aloft in a moment's
'

"

fool ! '

tornado

No

broke

ever

peacefullandscape
of her disenchanted

than

fit
Shame

themselves

"

fool !' she reiterated

drapery about
gleaming beauty of her
at

more

and
fiercely
suddenly on a
of fury on
the dull torpor
and

the keen

into

anguish of

whirlwind

of rage.

her voice.

It choked

Fool

the

mind.

resolved
disappointment

as

it is impossible
and, Plautia,
the
he, wringing
tardy

demeaned

weak, blinded

the

cried,

myself,then,'she gasped, to a man

be
I have stooped myself,most
to
a heart
likely,
of a guard-room,and thence of the city O miserable,

the butt

caught

she

me!'

spurn

hand

her form

I have

without

'

moment.

of his heart.

out

She

seized upon

breath.

I wish to seek your safetyand

that I can
love you,' returned

words

rock

the

if to relieve

horror

hoarsely. Her

her
neck

throat,and
and

of suffocation.

rent

jewelledhand
it away

from

wildlyheaving breast,

CHAP.

'

so

way

and
yourself

me

have
with

me

219

Centurion,

startled

the

cried

you

"

honoured

have

you

"

'
so, Plautia !

not

"

wrong

you

no

Not

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

TALE

x.

in
yourself

demeaned

affection it is

an

out

sacred with
Your secret shall be ever
power to return.
it painsme
too sharplyfor the
As to my heart,Plautia,
me.
All the love
unhappinessit would have avoided,but cannot.
of my

'

to

of

manner
'

speak of
'

have

You

another

"

is her

What

"

?'

name

is

Where

"

demanded, with something of

was

her,seen
good.'

known

never

her will do

no

heard

her,or

of

her,and

'

know

may

is she ?

Who

woman

tigress.

I will know

'You

another.'

givento

another

To

she ?
the

is

hold

it can

time

some

purpose now.'
furious glance,her

hence,but itisto

no

with a
gazed at him for a moment
thrown
head
back, and her figuredrawn
up to its utmost
brief second every
in the next
height. Then, strange to tell,
to relax,and, with a kind of
strained fibre of her body seemed
She

hysterical
gasp
to

by

out

it had

its

own

strengthand
changed mood

weak

drained of
of her

was

which

to

had

unruffled

startled

him,

woe
hysterical

He

and

witnessed

had

way

the

was

reaction,

the

expression

in any
Her
of her nature.

helplesswretchedness

of

degree
frame

violence,and the Pretorian was

contemplateanother phase of the volcanic passions
hitherto lain hid,to him at least,beneath the crust

of her calm
had

gave

with convulsive

shaken

enabled

and

of

the

mercy
in spirit.Nor

with the vehemence

less accordant

his breast

of

left her at

had

come,

on

weeping. Her brief madness,

fierceness,and departingas rapidly

burst

uncontrollable

an

burnt
as

sob, she fell

or

feminine
the

but here

ere

chill at

the
suggesting

now,

the

but

women

frenzied

haughtiness.The
sudden

drop

weakness
of

anger
was

men

into

storm

the

gust

depth

of

him.
quiteunmanned
the weeping of
and

revelation.

His

hate of the lava-blooded

heart turned

creature

on

his

breast.
useless to attempt to stop or soothe the tempest of
too fierce to last very long.
her feelings
; like her wrath it was
It began to abate in a few minutes, to the intense relief of his
It

was

mind.
agitated

'Come, Plautia,
courage

This is too

terrible
"

courage

!'

NE^RA

220

PART

His voice restored

his bosom

teeming

her,and
same
proud

with the

had

moments

she

lifted herself

mien

the world

thoroughlypurged

at

from

once

if the

knew, as

her veins

IL

clear and

cool of the riotous fires of

passion.
able
said,with stoical coldness.
My miserpart being played I will return.'
the opposite shore ?
To
It must
be
I will try to aid
at the welcome
you,'he began, with alacrity
change to action,
'

You

she
say well,'

'

"

'

"

however

hazardous.

'No

!' interrupted
grower's
she; 'to my lodging at the old winehovel.
I have brought you here to-night
from, perhaps,

pleasingoccupation. Accept

more

my

thanks

for

patientindulgence of a foolish woman's

folly. More I
suffer you to undergo; much
less the loss of your night's
cannot
repose, in the dangerous operationof smugglingme
away from
in
of your duty.'
here, direct opposition

your

'

is

That

pointif I
here.

he
nothing,'

could

I have

impress upon
been

the

of your presence here.

the fear of further evil
not

long,I
No, Centurion,I

from
'

be

more

to the

the

danger of your sojourn

unfortunate,although unwitting
cause,
That
gives me
griefenough without
As

you

soon

will do
devoted

on

you

It would

the

as

sets, which

moon

will

'

be
'

'

returned.

It is

own
my
all blame

on

my

as

I have

head

"

said.
care

Be
not.

the

quences
conse-

I absolve

account, therefore be at rest.'

sorelyagainstmy

he said sadly,for he could

will,'
and softened regard for her as one
result of
not but feel a new
the night's
experience.
with mine,' she replied
It is in full accordance
;
nay,
leave me
to go alone, for it is but a few hundred
yards. I
'

wish

'

it.

'

Good-night!

She

the

gatheredher draperyaround her,and, steppingout into

path,proceeded in the direction of Tucca's dwellingwith

all her accustomed

After

her

stateliness of

the
disappearance,

deep reflection. The

delicate perfumes of

gait.
Pretorian

soft seductive

yet lingeredon

in

spellof her beauty,and the

her person stilllingeredin his senses, and
full to its uttermost
with speculations
his mind
was
the fate
on
of such passionsas he had seen
displayedthat night. He
pondered on the transformation of the haughty,unemotional

OHA.P.

x.

lady

of

TALE

indolence,luxury, and

unassembling
woman

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

221

refinement, into the daring,

tried to
assignation
; and
realise her despairby endeavouring to picturehis own, had
been as misplaced. So, with a mind
his love for Nesera
illfor his night's
saddened
and agitated,
to bode
as
slumber,
he

turned

of

slowlyaway,

secret

at

last,in the direction of the villa

Jovis.
in
rustling

some

of his

the sound

When

footstepshad

the thicket above

Creeping cautiouslydownward
the edge of the
reached
man
that

himself

the

coast

was

died

the spot
the
over

away,

there

was

latelyoccupied.
rocky surface, a
road, and, peeping out, satisfied
he
clear ere
stepped boldly
so

forth.
the play is over,
right,Prefect,the road is open
he said aloud.
have clean departed,'
and the actors
of the
let us begone likewise,
'Then
Afer, in the name
returned
enough, as he reached
furies,'
Sejanus ill-temperedly
his companion and stretched his cramped limbs.
'

Tis

all

"

Yes, it is quitecertain that the Centurion has been more

'
but
highlyentertained than ourselves/responded Afer drily
;
'

unbidden
us

guests

scraps ot speech,as
memories, and exercise our

fix such

our

reach

did

our

meantime, let
ears, firmlyin
in

ingeniousfancies

supplying

It will be just
gaps in the scene.
and the lovelyPlautia will correct
the original,

fill the

to

matter

In the

take their chance.

must

vast

amusing as
it if necessary.'

as

'

yourselffrom
his cloak

to
you will undertake
the damsel,'snarled the

if
agreeable,

I'm

with his hand.

'

obtain

the

rection
cor-

Prefect,brushing

I think the result would

repay

any

trouble.'

such

least you have proof of the sublime virtue of your

continued
be gratifying.Such
Afer; 'that must
Pretorian,'
'At

of

marvel

of resolute

Sirens,without

Ill-starred Venus

Adonis

could
integrity

stuffinghis ears
dashing herself

brave
fearlessly

with

wax

as

did

host

Ulysses.

againstthis incorruptible

!'

for you to persuade her to

time,therefore,
remarked
turn
to warmer
Sejanus
sympathiesfor consolation,'
sarcastically.The Centurion has followed his own idea in a
'

Now

the better

'

matter

which

will

never

offer itselfto your

choice, and

it is of

NE^ERA

222

no

lady

further

will

obey
she

your

she

herself,
to

to

consequence

acquaint

does

hand,

go

her

with

about

arrange
and

must

to

her

Afer,

that

let

fact

till

she

peril.
us

be

off.'

But

either.

me

night,

of

means

grievous
and

to

or

to-morrow

within-doors

keep
it

the

you

PART

early

and
in

is

If

Give

bidden
my

she

to

cloak

trive
con-

morning.

the

departure.

the

to

as

must

you

II.

come

brush

fails

to

forth,
with

CHAPTER

walked

T)LAUTIA

head

and

sweeping haughty
exposed to the dim

face

if contemptuously careless of risk.

as

moon

with

homeward

step, leaving her

rays of the
she reached

XI.

dusky orchard which flanked

the dwelling of Tucca, she stopped short,with her head cast
thought. It may have been a
down, as if struck by a sudden
flash of reflection piercingher pain-drowsied
cruelly acute
mind
with spasmodic rigour,for,the next
she sank
moment
with

knees

her

on

the middle

When

of the

smothered

thence
her
to
on
groan, and
her hand
and
clutching the

outstretched
face,with her arms
turf.
Here, in the solitude and
hour

silence

of

the

night,the

unhappy thoughts, she lay prone and

torture.
Every external
helplessin the very lap of mental
absent
condition was
which, in the lightof day, might have
relief. Her
lent distraction and
face, buried in the mossy
turf,was dry-eyed; nor could the stingingpangs of wounded
diversion from the horrible oppresa momentary
pride arouse
sion
and stupor of despair by a fit of frenzied rage, to which
dread

most

her inflammable
time

The

for

nature

flew

was

The

on.

at all times

sank

moon

horizon,and was suddenly swallowed

cloud, risingand spreadingupward from

the
of

moved

on

south.

nearer

and

nearer

to

up in a craggy mass
the western
It
sea.

swiftlyand

bright stars
pitchy mantle
to

prone.

massively. Myriad after myriad of

the hurrying edge of its
disappeared behind
rollingonward, in a serrated line,from north

Before

radiance ;

was

the

behind

fast
the

narrowing
unfathomable

of
expanse
blackness

tering
glitof

Erebus.

Fitful,but louder
of the

gentle uniform

murmurs

swept up from

breathingof

the

the

sea

in

early night,and

place
the

NE^SRA

224

PART

II.

darklingwaters shook with a brisker frolic of dancingfrothy

escent
combs, and dull shimmeringstreaks and flashes of phosphorif
dim
the
watchword
of
as
light,
waking to
exultingly
a twinklingstorm
spirit.
if bereft of life. The
StillPlautia remained
as
motionless,
gatheringgloom of the outer air had thickened,amid the
The tree
grove, into inky blackness impenetrableto the eye.
the shape
and boles were
as well as
stems
obliterated,
entirely
of the woman
lyingprostrate amid them, steeped in oblivious
anguish. A sharp short gust of wind swayed the invisible
above, and
and
after which a lull,
of

night.

summer

noisilyamongst

dashed

branches

as
dreamy rustling,

Then

roaringamongst the branches

the flattening
pressure of the
tempest
It made
to

hands, she

enveloped her.
her
Her

bending them

over

hail

of

as

leaves heard

blast

Titan,whilst a
swept along in company,

hand

the

of

depth
with

ing
whizzand

amidst the bluster.

with its icy coldness,

its way freelythrough,and fell,
her.
She
It roused
the bare head of her beneath.

lifted her head

her

and

its shrill rattling

on

made

on

of rain

and

in the calm

fierce rush

the

came

their leaves ;

herself slowly,so as to lean

raising
into the Stygianblackness
gazed stupidly
; and

The

roar

last remembrance
mind

of the

re-asserted

and
itself,

which

filled her ears, whereas

calm
stars and
moonlight.

storm

of the

was

upon

recovered

from

the bonds

of

for the present, as from a dread nightmare.

Shivering,she raised her chilled limbs from the ground,

its torture-bed

and, pullingher cloak around her head, she stood, amid the
to piercethe darkness
and dashing of the elements,striving
roar
and

determine

in which

grope her way from the

stooped to feel for the narrow

direction

to

Failing in this she

She was
in the short grass.
successful,
and,
footpath worn
the
proceeded from
sea, and
assuming that the storm
open
tage,
the direction of Tucca's cotor less from
consequentlymore
the tardy,troublesome, but necessitous
she commenced
in the face of the wind,
process of followingup the path,
in a stoopingand sometimes
by the assiduous touch of her fingers,
grove.

creepingposture.
yards in this toilsome manner
and she
she caughtsightof a glimmeringlight. It disappeared,
called at the top of her voice, but the furious roaring of
When

she

had

gone

few

CTIAP.

xi.

amid

wind

the

herself.

TALE

the

OF

ANCIENT

ROME

rendered

trees

her

225

inaudible

tones

lightreappearedmuch closer,and
coming to meet her she stopped. It proved to
attended by her
the ancient husbandman
himself,
a

woman

under

The

held

of middle

Tucca
age.
the shelter of his sackcloth

in order

to

from

as

she

it

saw

be carried

by

faithful slave,

lantern

storm-cloak

its feeble flame

save

the

as

to

was

as

much

possible,

the wind ; and

as

it

barelygave lightto their feet,and their senses were pre-occupied with the bluster of the elements,they failed to perceive
the form of Plautia standingmotionless in the path awaiting
them.
Speakingbeing useless,the latter stayedtheir steps by
vidual's
that indito
layingher hand on Tucca's shoulder,so much
sudden
consternation that he very nearlydropped the
lantern.
Turning the struggling
candle-raysup to her pale,
waiting
stern face,he heaved
a sighof gratification,
and, scarcely
for her sign to return
homeward, he doubled on his track
with alacrity,
ence
being too well satisfied alreadywith his experiof the
was

The

night.

labour of

in the
difficulty

small

no

the short distance to the house

cover

at
extinguished

lightwas
to

To

the

old

once,

who

man,

teeth of the tempest.

but that was
of no
sequence
con-

knew

as

by night as day
passed the whole

well

every inch of the homestead, where he had

of his lengthydays. Plautia held to his shoulder, and
cloak

was

gained

the

gripped by

cottage, with

smartingwith

in this manner,
their garments drippingand

her

slave,and,

her

they
their

her
as
wind, rain,and hail. As soon
voice could be heard, Plautia's attendant began volublyto
in which
of her expedition,
to her delight
at the success
testify
she had almost compelled the grumbling Tucca
to join; but
Plautia curtlychecked
her and called for some
wine, which

faces

the

she drank

copiously.Tastinga

retired

her

would

to

have

room,

given her

followed

mouthful

by

chance

her

of food

faithful

of freedom

to

she

then

retainer,who
have

had

her

satisfied as to the errand of her mistress that

burningcuriosity
face of the lady,
stern
night. But the pale,pre-occupied,
together with an ominous, fretful impatienceof manner,

her, so she proceeded in silence with her duties of

and preparingfor rest.
disrobing
Plautia lay and tossed the nightthrough,tillnearlydawn,
in sleepless
around
wretchedness.
The shrieking
of the storm

daunted

226

NEAZRA

the

M.

PART

creaking,shudderingcottage seemed a fitting

ment
accompanithe incessant gnawing of her bitter disappointment,
to
it was
long ere sheer exhaustion
brought an uneasy

and

slumber

her relief.

to

loud

her.

knocking at the outer door

could scarcely
realise that her

She

all,and

sat

listen.

to

up

The

luminous
was
ceiling,
faintly
earlyday, and, though the
moderated.

She

within,as yet

undisturbed

be ; and

it was

could

her

is

'Who

very

palpably

pounding

of

voice

rose

door

heard

was

visitor.

the

she

of the

had

demanding

Plautia's

from

her

want

at

been

suspicions

palletand

placed

this time?'

asked

crevice of the door.

to the

ear

lightof
struggling
stillhigh,it had

was

the slumberer's

keenly excited,and

were

the

of Tucca
loud, regularsnore
whoever
it might
by the earlycaller,

business

and

name

awoke

hear the

until the

not

that
repeatedthrice,
the

wind

house

eyes had closed at

littlewindow, near
the

narrow

with

of the

it,and

what

do

you

Tucca.
'

the

Open
reply.

confounded

door

and

!'

see

shouted

was

in

'Is it you, noble Zeno?'

'It is,noble Tucca.'
The

bar

thought
speak so

it

was

loud

Plautia

remainder
'

the

of

hear

to

speak with

cold

out

with

it

Plautia
covered

an

he

return

am

have

don't

for my own
her up, and
are

you

of your
the old man

and

tapped at

the other ; ' I

hour, on such

doing

sake

am
an

hers,but

as

tell her who

that I will

waits

keep

the

best,Tucca.'
remove

to

his

the

which
trap-door,

cellar,and

upon

his

her door.

she asked.

pleaseyou, noble lady,I am loth to disturb you, but

has come
bidden to it by Zeno, Caesar's steward, who
speech with you, and waits even now.'

'

So

easilysuppliedthe

unseasonable

steps descending

came

'Well!'

While

drink

heard

the

she

do,'returned

to

came

such

at

her.
a

but

more,

morning, as well
option. Go, knock

no

'

speech.

justwhat
do

no

unseasonable
I have

in, but

come

"

said,

Tucca

'

could

grieved to

undone, and

was

your voice,good Zeno

lest you waken

of the

It is

door

I
to

CHAP.

TALE

xi.

an

felt that

she

right,and
suspicionswere
was

227

involuntarythrill Martialis
she had been
betrayed. Her

her

caused

words

These

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

the
range, and
angry flash of her eyes, and clenchingof her hand upon her
bosom, were eloquentindications which boded illfor Tigellinus.
to

narrow

very

to adopt
impelledher instinctively
of weaker
would
nature
bold,unshrinkingpolicy. A woman

native dauntlessness

Her
a

confined

probably
amid
on

eddies

the

tossed

been

have

the doomed

of

reef

and

whirled

hither

thither

and

and finally
stranded
shufflingtimidity,
stubbornness
of hysterical
; but Plautia's

with

recklessness
of undanger. The
is a stimulant
happinessand despairingthoughts,moreover,
fearlessness into temerity and
which
is apt to outrun
calm

high spiritrose

bravado.

Zeno, Caesar's steward, to

'Tell
time
fitting
The

again at a more
day,'she said loudlyand peremptorily.
heard, and, approachingthe door of her apartment,

of

Greek

of his
'

in the softest and

for himself

answered

I have

to

crave

pardon, most

your

with you

few words

a
'

sweet

slumbers.

But, alas

which
instructions,
my
behalf of Caesar.'

on

the

graciouslady,for

! I
to

were

I will come.'

She

quickly enveloped

herself

in

The

dawn.

old

himself

man

blowing at

hearth, whilst his wife

sleepingbox
Zeno

or

had

had

fire he

more

of Plautia with an
appearance
It partook of the profound

potentate, and

had

through he could not

of haughtinessthan
trod the earthen
a

Semiramis

of state.

the

in the

mantle

and

where

Tucca

had

uncertain
his

on

in

the

lightof
knees, vigorously

brazier

on

the

depths

of

the

the other end

of the

into the centre, and

obeisance of extreme

humility offered

dexterous

have

Greek

to

searched

room.

saluted the
deference.
an

oriental
the

world

perfectincarnation
youthful beauty before him, who

found

floor of the hovel

clad in

placed

invisible in

was

crib,opening from

withdrawn

down

was

loose

stepped forth into the main, apartment,

lightedan oil lamp to assist the gray,

were

persuasive

most

tones.

to your
untimelyinterruption
have no
option but to obey

have

come

more

in her

deshabille,as

splendourand steppingto

if she

her throne

228

NEJERA

PART

ii.

with a gaze such as

regarded him for a few moments
a
sovereignmight have fastened upon a trembling wretch
waitingfor judgment. Zeno, having recovered from his deep
stood with his head slightly
bent and his eyes cast
inclination,
down
to the floor with an
attention.
expressionof respectful
He
notorious
of that race
in the Imperialcityfor its
was
so
matchless
and address in framing its face for all occasions
facility
effort to play the lowly vassal
no
more
; and it cost him
the imperiousnessconfronting
to
him, than it did to assume
the petty tyrant among
the frightenedscullions of his household.
His dissimulation,
at the same
time,did not interfere
with the indulgenceof an
of personalvanitybefore
amount
the eyes of a lovelywoman.
He
posed his slender figurein
its most
and turned his face in the best light
gracefulattitude,
of its symmetrical
for the display
beauty and soft complexion.
'You
sent by Caesar
to me?'
are
began Plautia.
I am, graciouslady; I am
the steward of his household.'
repliedZeno, in his softest voice.
She

'

'And

bowed.

Zeno
'

Of

'

You

'

Athens,'said

'

my

the noble

am

been

What

know.

has

heart

and

hear

address

from

was

Rome,'

know

Caesar

name

my

the

and

seek to know.'

What

is

heart

to

he want

can

Caesar's

obey.

But

with

servants

the

me

'

dare not

seek

ruler of the world

of his

subjects; why then should

be surprisedat receiving
the
beautiful,

one

?'

Plautia smiled
was

cottage and

in every way.
There is no
business now,
than there has ever

my

for every
of the most

Plautia,one
Imperialnotice

me.'

Tiberius

to

is in Caesar's
To

come

to

'

him.

to concern

here

Tucca's

could

How

stranger
me

coming

to

come

not, lady,nor

in

Plautia,newly

here ?

about
'

to

response.
Most
strange !

more

to

bidden

presence
'
I know
'

he.

be mistaken

must

was

myself to
bland

Greek?'

in

loftyscorn,

but the

gravityof

Zeno's

face

unmoved.
'

Say, then, what

said she.

you

have

to

say without

further

question.'

'

My

master's

arrival,it
your
satisfaction that
island of
hut

of

with

lovelyand

to

be

should

accomplished
allowed

remain

to

expressionof disgustand

an

despatched

instructions
command

may

so

Capreae

therefore
and

neither

me

visitor

greeting,

Jovis,where you
until
position,
your

befits

as

eyes
'
he
;

visit to

Capreae to a close. May

that Caesar's bidding
it pleaseyou, therefore,
to attire yourself,
and that your gracious
may be fulfilled as quicklyas possible,
self may be rid of this vile place. The
morning is stormy,
in
litterwaits outside,
but the rain has ceased,and a covered
which the slaves will bear you under the shelter of the palace

you

think

convey you
such attention

his

the

the villa

to

to

and

contempt

with
earliest,

the

at

me,

the

to

lodged in

husbandman,' said Zeno, sweepinghis hand

round

was

229

say that,having heard of

his own
to
his credit nor

lipsbade

own

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

TALE

xi.

CHAP.

roof in but
'

that

You
I

bring your

fit to

few minutes.'

Plautia,in
Capreae is

at

return

may
thank

him

the

to

once

his

for the

profferof
calm, loftymanner

same

said
hospitality,'
'

accommodation

that this cottage will amply

for the remainder
of the time.

to him,
grateful

however.'

steward's

The

gravitythan

ever

from

with

do

as

you

have

'What

anythingto
crave

said Zeno
consequence

at

His

indeed.
his

of

am

less

no

fingers

cloak

during a few
moved
uneasily

his eyes
last they rested,with

an

the face of Plautia herself.

tell me,' he

leavingyou here, would

'I

hem

object to another,until

appealinglook, upon
To

the

expressionof deeper

an

silent hesitation,
and

of
one

'

assumed

palpablesorrow

of

"

restlessly
played
moments

face

stay in
my
suffice for my

but

short

so

tell Tiberius

palace,and

the

to

said,
"

'

to return

prove my instant
do with that?
I

do with you

to the

and
disgrace

sought

not

palace,
ruin.'
to

have

your master.'
your pardon for speakingof my unworthy self/
'
It is indeed of little
humbly, in a lower tone.
what

what

or

happens

to me

; but if Plautia

will understand

sought to impress upon her was, what she

probablyfullycomprehends already,that Caesar's word must
be fulfilled at the cost of anythingand everything
if need be.
I dare not return
without you.'
me,

'

Which

means

that

mv

desires

were

never

meant

to

be

NEsERA

230

consulted

PA

TIT ii.

that

take me,
to
or
willingly
your orders were
'
did you
said Plautia disdainfully. Why
not
unwillingly,'
"

deliver your

mandate

of deference
'

at

without

once,

all this false

mockery

'

neither mandate
Alas, no, by your leave,graciousPlautia,
struck with
mockery ! cried the Greek, who seemed
'

nor

idea.

at the

horror

had

clumsy tongue
mind.

your

Ah

'

caused

should

therefore,I

no,

I should

deserve

be

harbour

to

you

die like

to

flung from

those

natural

prerogativesof Plautia; and is

slave could
make
a
mockery

fatal words.

from
sincerely

'Psaw!'

himself?

Caesar
uttered

dog if my
a
thing in

cliffs had

the

dismiss

nameless

such

in mercy
you
and
Deference

beseech

to

I dared.
servant,

your

homage are the

possible,that a

it
of

will flow

what

No, it cannot

be !

'

Plautia,
impatiently
turningfrom

abjurationof the

steward.

'Whom

have

trionic
the hiswith

you

you?'
She
the

the

door,and, unlatchingit,looked
dismal landscape. A raw, cold wind dashed in

the

trees

sky

seemed

Under
a

and

tossed

lee of the

dozen

or

of their

the most

in

dismal
cheerless,

cottage

was

more

slaves

rough

woollen

huddled
cloaks

and

hue

of

litter set

covered

were

out

upon
her face ;
foam-streaked sea and

the

waved, and

mingle

to

the

whilst

to

swept

close

gray.

down,

by, making

the shelter of the

wall.
friendly
half-closed

The

in silent

lipscurved

to close the door

'

'

eyes

of the

followed

she

stepped back

laughter. As

her, and

his

he sprang

for her.

few slaves

only,'he said apologetically.

expected to see a gang

with as
chains,'she replied,

of Pretorians with swords

much

sarcasm

as

her

and

hauteur

admit.

would

suffered

Zeno
which
'

Greek

disclosed
Ah

swords

no

and

Centurion

'

his

humilityto

make

bold

with

smile,

his white teeth.

he

softlysaid,ignoringthe bitingallusion

chains ;
Martialis

'

I and

and

my

slaves had

the

his Pretorians would

to

better fortune.
have

been

as

rejoicedas I am to have had the honour of escortingyou, but

enough, without robbing your humble
they have privileges
hard at work with
slave of a gratefultask ; they are even
now

TALE

xi.

CHAP.

ANCIENT

OF

ROME

is their custom,

their exercises,as

within

231

the

walls

of

the

most

worthy

villa Jovis.'
'

It is

with

to

am
'

coldly.
compel me,

to

you

she

returned
steward,'
force

that

enough

with

go

have

You

well

as

you,

than

more
as

to

sufficient

guard

if

me,

be.'

need

of the Pretorians

suggestedto the Greek the

he raised
of Martialis,
and
artful introduction of the name
unconcerned
his eyes to her face with an
glance to try and
appointe
But
he was
effect of his words.
discover some
totallydismention

Her

and

she retired at

into her

once

own

apartment.

had contrived to
colloquythe ancient Tucca
allow the fire to retain his attention,
blowing a few puffsnow
and then to excite the sluggish
flames,and pilinghere and
in the task.
absorbed
there an ember, being to all appearances
As the door closed upon the Roman
beauty he turned up his
the Greek with a leer,
toward
shrivelled,
leatherycountenance
which seemed
to
extinguishhis eyes in the dirt-engrained

During

wrinkles

the

of his face.

WorshipfulZeno
his filthy
hands
lifting
'

Zeno
'

! ' he

chuckled,risingfrom

in

exceedingadmiration

his knees
'

and

worshipful

'

It is all fair and

smooth

old

now,

returned
wine-presser,'

guarded voice,giving him a playfulbuffet on the

in high good humour.
What
shoulder
a
high and mighty
goddess it is ! Why, the granddaughterof old Tiberius up
yonder is a mere
cottage girlto this ! But the villa is a rare
mill for such ! She leaves Capreae soon
ha, ha !
how I helped you ? rejoined
Tucca.
And
you know
Truly ! repliedthe other,and he went to the door and
signed to his slaves.
Returning,he finished his wine, and then paced thoughtfully
the floor tillthe objectof his care
should
up and down
in

Zeno

'

'

"

'

'

'

'

her appearance.
she entered, attired
In a few minutes
for her short journey and followed by her female slave.

make

'

The
one

litterwas
she

set

said

and
briefly,

Zeno

opened

opposite,and his hand

slave,on bended knee,drew back

set down

whilst a
curtain,
As

'

she
ready,'

am

her

fair journey.'

foot

inside

whining voice

the door.
drew

back

the other.
bade

her

NE^ERA

232
'

Ah, I forgot!
in the

Tucca
'

'

Zeno
vigilant

Yes, from

me

"

'

Caesar

may
"

with

and
grasp of surprise
lower tone,
'

You

'

have

not

"

feet !

to

cringing

lodging.'
posed
! ' inter-

sesterce

what

he

'

please! rejoined
I would
speak with him !
her bidding,and she held out
'

and
delight,

horned
filthy,
fingers
thereupon she added

'

betrayedme, wretch !
bounteous
lady? he exclaimed,starting.
the gods strike me
dead
a whisper,
or
may
'

Not
at

'

wavering glance wandered

His
eyes
and

'

most

"

word

your

for my

the

"

add

this for your trouble ! '

clutched the shiningpiece in his

Here

to

he shall receive his due.'

'

He

is payment

haughtily. Stand back

They retired a few steps at
gold coin toward the old man.
'

in

'here

leave,graciousPlautia,not

she

Plautia,turning back

said

doorway;

By your
the

'

ii

PART

the form

of

Zeno, who

from

stood

her stern, penetrating

apart with folded arms

frowning gaze fixed upon him.

No
!
no
May the gods strike me dead at your feet !
he repeated.
I shall know
and beware
!
Enough
him
She
turned
without
and
feeblyiterating,
away from
The slaves
more
delayentered the litterand reclined therein.
lifted her up and proceeded on their way, at a pace, which was
somewhat
of her faithful attendant,
retarded by the company
walked
she refused to
who
by her side,and without whom
move
one
yard,in spiteof all Zeno's efforts to the contrary.
bleak morning wore
The
as
on, but was
yet young when
Afer, cloaked and hooded
againstthe raw, blustering
weather,
knocked
the door of Tucca's dwelling,
and
demanded
at
to
Plautia.
When
the grimy,greasy wine-growerexplained
see
her departure to him, with much
the
obsequious cringing,
incredulous
that he stalked into the hovel to
so
knight was
examine
for himself.
Finding the state of the case to be as
related,he desired to be informed whither the lady had gone.
I did not inquire not I,'said Tucca
cautiously.
'

'

"

'

'

"

"

'

"

'

Went

'

Well"

'

With

she alone ?
no

'

!'

whom,

then ? '

OHAI-.

TALE

\M.

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

233

with her.'

Her

slave

'

And

no

"

Well

'

Come, be speedy ! cried the knight impatiently.

but
for certain,
There were
illustrious,
others,most

'

was

besides ?

one
'

drawled

'

Tucca.
'

"

you dare
Slaves ! '
Do

'

'

slaves,and

What

'

with

words

play at

to

whose

me

I beat

Must

quoth Afer, takinga step

angrily

wretch?'

'

others ?

What

it out

of you,
the reluctant

toward

husbandman.
retreating
!' cried Tucca, hastily
worshipful
corresponding
step; and then he continued,in a whining

'

Caesar's,most

tone, to bemoan
house

to the

over

fate which

hard

the

anxieties and

him

delivered

and

his

to the

attached
responsibilities

visits of nobilitiesand

highnesses.
As he whimpered and
hoped he had not said as much as
uous
might bring him harm, Afer swept past him, with a contemptthe
house.
He
and
left
pursuedhis way
exclamation,
through the town, toward the villa of Mercury, which crowned
the hill overlookingthe north Marina.
Climbing the ascent,
he entered the gates of the palace,and
sought the Prefect in
inner

an

apartment, with the freedom

friend.

and

nodded

He

writing.
a

to

an

divided between
latter laid down

and

and

bent

favoured

busilyengaged
his attention

confidant
in

writing.

again to

his

his

to move

bent

his work.

over

and, readingover
stylus,

sealed it.

Then

his

he put it in the bosom

Then

the

closed
epistle,
of his

dress,

left his seat.

and

'Well,' said he, stretchinghimself

at

am

so

busilyalong for about

hour, duringwhich period Afer's attention was
his own
thoughtsand schemes and the absorbed

of the minister

countenance

it up

couch, and

styluscontinued

His

quarter of

alone

Sejanus was

of

liberty
; so

I presume

In what

morning
'

'

with

me

hear of your business.

You
are
late,
followed
last
already
night'sfolly.
up

you have
of a humour

after her

yawning, 'now

did

you find the fair Plautia this

in what
and
did
sort
of humour
repulse,

eloquence leave her?'

I have not seen
her,'repliedAfer.
Wherefore
!
You
are
remiss, Afer,' rejoined Sejanus,
imsomewhat
a
slightwrinkle of his brows ; it was
tact

your

sort

let

and

and

'

NE^ERA

234

PART

n.

portant,

hinted.

as

You

ought

have

to

gone

at

your

earliest.'
'

'

'

I have

then

How
No

been.

spared to

'

But

us

the

then
the

escorted

her hence

'Phew?'

slowly,and

great gusto, 'that's well

with

Caesar's

visited her

household

'

manded
de-

and

arrival.'

my

each

at

changed his mind

of disgust.

tone

the Prefect

they gazed

"

!'

woman

Centurion

before

whistled

hands, and

our

alone, I find.'

my
of

some

of

oui

alreadytaken flight.'

Sensible

commander,

but

'No;

she has

"

gone

has

"

taken

Prefect, with

she has not

How

bedfast?'

been

be better !

nothing could
'

has

matter

'said

'Ah!

straight
away.'

come

is she sick and

"

; the

all trouble

I have

rubbed

softly. He
other

for

few

his chin

moments

in

silence.
'

Ha

!' ejaculatedSejanus,regarding the

and

still smoothing the

takingthe
"Tis

load off

our

good

as

perhaps

not

for

the

lower

backs

part of his

any for you,

lady herself. She

sweet

site
oppo'this
is
face,

effectually.'

most
as

way

bare wall

Prefect, though
is in excellent

keeping.'
'

Well, let

it must
stand
hope so
our
as
Imperial
has arranged it,at all events.
master
She has only her headstrong
follyto thank for her fate. She cannot
say but that
she had ample warning.'
'The
fact, nevertheless,
remains, that with her subtlety
and good looks, she may
her way
into the Imperial
worm
mischief
if she be so inclined.
favour,and be pleased to make
us

"

'

'Hml'

said Sejanus, 'we

has arrived
he should
as

well

to

'You

much

the villa above

I go

and

Tiberius

Come!

see.

him

to

at

once.

open his lipsto tell us anythingof this it would

be trulyastonished to hear it.'
would

said Afer
of

at

will

not

be

very
If Tiberius

drily.
the lady'spresence,
'

prudent
has

had

depend

to

be

play a part, Prefect,

such

upon

If

prompt

tion
informa-

it there will be

not

that you
I could
The
best
or
impart to him.
will be a candid one, without any disguise.'
course
'Disguise,Afer!' ejaculated the Prefect scornfully;
more

CHAP.

'

am

What
of

of

interest

me,

himself,

tell

him

Go,

bid

all,
the

or

and

people

it

would
he

little,

ROME

the

fearing
is

concern

to

ANCIENT

OF

schoolboy

truant

atom

Caesar

TALE

xi.

or

prepare

to

Had

me

dare

not

nothing
and

the

of
she

at

we

mine,

to

start'

retain

as

her.
I

am

and

restitution

all, just
will

pedagogue

been

demanded

have

would

rod

235

from

will

inclined.

CHAPTER

'""PHINGS

changed in the small household

same
daily routine proceeded,

were

lion.
carried

The
under

on

darkened

the
and

human,

the

brow

haunted
He

was

depressingshadow

of

transient

the memory
of the
such
unwelcome
an
now

XII.

the

had

females

two

He

potter.

shadows

before

abiding care

their eyes.
their self-imposed
autocrat, and

it

it

was

which
than

more

his

shared

but

no

there

Masth-

cloud

was

been

who
of

symptom

of

of

but, in

home,

never

that which

as

that

natural

was

the

should
be reflected on their own, just
gloom of his mind
the landscape takes its hue from the skies.
Their sleepless
as
in tender
rooted
the fearsolicitude,
love, outweighed even
quickened service of the trembling slaves of Caesar; and
never

was

boundless

store

of direct

effort

tribute

to

less

man

his

exacting in

of devotion
or

to his

intention

it.

bore

not

It

love.

He

was

incapable,
by

of self-consciousness.
been

have
a

of

the touchstone

standing invitation

him

in
two

avertingsuch
gentle natures

existence

His

in his

the

simple
vanity or

his

cheerful

of mutual
which

reverence

sanctified

at such
arriving
which
disposition

nature, of
was

of

the

was

break
the unruffled flow of
to
self-sufficiency
serenity.
and contentment
Livingin the full gratification

innocent

more

rippleof

he yet never
affection,
suspected the depth of
and
lay rooted in the minds of the two women

such

upon

needs, or yet

deserve

to

nature, which

his demands

their

pitch
would

termagant's foul humours,

and

persecutions.Fate had blessed

misery by givinghim the companionship
to

the

her

reflex of his

own.

The

current

of

had, therefore,been uniformly calm

and
quietlyhappy, even
through his early struggles. Bitter
had no
reproach,the frequentadjunct of poverty and privation,
own

nest

CHAP.

TALE

xir.

OF

ANCIENT

ROME

237

in his poor house,for Tibia,his wife,

too
was
and worshippingto harbour an adverse thought. Nor

existence

devoted
there

was

ground, had she been so minded, for he had toiled like

The
a
Titan, and ever maintained his native cheerfulness.
trial of those days had long passed,and, with a surer
footing
any

and

better

the void

the

competence,

in their childless

child Nesera

home.

She

had

to fill

come

little of the

needed

of her supposed mother

to follow in the
example and training
same
path of devotion to the potter. His nature asserted its
and they were
her mind and heart,
panions
inseparablecomsway over
from
he

by, and

was

other
had

the first. Indeed

brought out

after
pallet,

cared

for

in her childish ailments

the rough-handed,toil-worn

than

nurse

been

even

she

of his

his wife had

workshop

exhausted

to

when

one

And

yet, perhaps,not

perceivedthe

tenderness

would

suffer

no

man.

Often

he

contrivances

all arts and

her fretfulness ; and it was

strange to
steal over
her as, begrimed with
composure
he took up his place beside her and
in his.

other when

the side of the child's

soothe

hand

no

so

which

the

see

to

sudden

nace,
clayand the furclasped her tiny

much

to

welled

wonder
in his

at,

dark,

deep-seteyes, and crooned in the soft,soothingtones of his

tale of wonderland.
voice,as it poured into her eager ears some
is the gentlenessof strength.
Of such superlative
divinity
The

trouble of Masthlion's

mind

was

borne, in obedience

his nature, silently

but was
and
none
patiently,
anxious
evident to the keen
eyes of the women.

to

less

Always

time than ever

workshop, he now
passed more
in its smoky walls,rarelyappearingsave
for meals.
He spoke
his look was
little and
times, Nesera
absorbed; but, many
caught his glance resting
upon her with a haggard expression
which smote
her with poignantpain.
All this upon the simplestreasoning
ascribed to the influence
was
of Cestus
because the change was simultaneous with his
in their midst.
It was
to make
a
hardly possible
appearance
mistake in the matter.
Tibia,at least,was certain. We have
her stealing
to find her husband
seen
downstairs,
sitting,
steeped
in grief,
his
view
before the cold ashes in the brazier,
after
first interwith his brother-in-law. She had subsequentlyendeavoured
obtain an
to
explanationfrom him, but, though his
heart ached
well as feared to tell her,he was
as
obligedto
devoted

to

his

the

"

238

NE"RA

his

preserve

pain

promise

PART

Cestus,and

to

undergo the

bearinghis trouble in secret.

of

successful

when

Nor

was

usual

appliedto Cestus
disclaimed all knowledge,and
readiness,

rather

she

her husband

constrained

was

and,

in fact looked

to remain

mystery hanging between

the firstexperienceof the kind

"

perforce,in such

additional

she any more

himself,who, with his

she

surprised. Thus
disagreeableshadow of

n.

with
her

since their

and
panionship
com-

positionas rendered
painfully
helplessto give him any sympathy and help
whatever.
Neaera's concern
for her father,
the other hand,
on
mixed
with a guilty
which pricked her sorelyand
was
feeling
would
be argued away.
not
Those
glances,which she caught
at times fixed upon
her,seemed full of reproach,and were wellnigh insupportable. To her exaggerated fancy they seemed
Look
what you have done ! Thus
to say,
have you repaid
by your wilfulness.' In this way she conmy love and care
nected
his trouble with her relation to Martialis,
and no
more
bitter conclusion
could be arrived at, since it placed in direct
antagonism the two beingsshe most loved on earth. She reflected
how gradually
and reluctantly
the potter had given
way
to her betrothal.
he
at
had
almost
How,
first,
fused
reabsolutely
to listen at all ; his journeyto Rome, and
final,
tardy
assent
given,as she felt sure, not because he approved,but
because he had not been able to discover
ground
any tangible
for objection. But, she further reflected,
or
excuse
even
then,
at the worst, his anxiety
took no such dark shape as at present.
He
avoided her, as he appeared to do now, to her unnever
speakable
Then
he conversed
sorrow.
and
without
freely
restraint on the matter, and, if more
anxious and earnest
at
lost his customary cheerfulness.
times,he never
It
entirely
;

her

'

"

was

at

with the arrival of her

once

become

uncle

manifest,and

one

from

Rome

day, when

the

change

alone

had

with the

Suburan, she taxed him with it,and desired him to explain

the coincidence,
if possible.
it happened that Cestus,in the course
Now
of his sojourn
in the house, had yieldedto a feeling
of admiration for the
beautiful girl,which
was
reallysincere;and the feelingof
not
respect which accompanied it was
sideration
only derived from confor the future,but actuallydue
her qualities
to
themselves.
He had very earlychanged his customary, bold,

CHAP.

impudent
of

OF

ROME

ANCIENT

239

presence, and relieved it

with the effect of gradually
possible,
in her

of address

manner

much

as

TALE

xii.

as
vulgarity

lesseningthe aversion with which she at first had regarded

and with
took pains to still improve the position,
He
him.
for descripHis fluencyof tongue and natural ability
success.
tion
and
Neaera
stood him in good stead ;
began to incline
to hear him talk to
very readily
its people a subject of which

her
he

"

One

he made

day

her

to the

never

to

for
the

beyond
same

well

as

importantfactor

an

that,save
lost

was

the

profound

he had

as

great cityand

the tact

master.

to

make

ceived.
seasonable,it was very well reand by degrees,her earlyrepugnance
Thus, artfully,
tion.
Roman
was
conquered, to the latter's genuinesatisfactook a profound interest in her, and
He
was
secretly
tired of observingher ways.
It gave him prideto reflect

it unostentatious

what

and,
gift,

about

him,

such

in her career, and to think

beautiful creature
had been entirely
he

These

world.

mere

as

was

feelingswere

selfish considerations

and

mercenary

inspiredand

lifted

by

the

native

his deference,

and

the effect

which
seemed
to command
superiority,
assignher to a highersphere. Nor did

of his intercourse with

her

end

here.

Her

beauty and purity

were
unconsciously
leaveningthe dark depths of his mind, and
of nobility
quickeningunaccustomed
thoughtswith a new spirit
and

refinement.
With

Suburan

these influences

at work, the time which

the
silently
in
his
spending,
sojourn under the roof of his
productive of more
good, even
morally than

was

was
relatives,

physically
; whilst
the
to

lapse of time

bringhim

great end.

no

Nesera's

easilyreconciled him to
presence
which, as day after day passed on, seemed
the

accomplishment of his
kindlymetamorphosis was taking place
to

nearer

Whatever

proper

in his

that one
resolution which had
thoughtsand disposition,
brought him hither suffered no change or modification. It
the gloomy, immovable
to the rest
rose
mountain
superior
of
his mind, to the dark bosom
of which
all meditations tended
and circled,
and beyond which
ventured
speculationnever
a
"

step, as if existence had

excursions
whence

the

was

to

the island

waters.

There

the
of

there
nearest

Capreae

he

would

an

end.

One

headland
could
sit and

on

be

of his favourite
the

seen

gaze

western

afar
upon

coast,

restingin
its rugged

NErfLRA

240

PART

ii.

of his
outline ; amusing himself by imaginingthe movements
and chucklingaudibly,
patron, hugging himself with delight,
ofthe conjured before his mind's eye the fancy picture,
as

repeated,of the confusion,the rage and despairof the knight,

At
that joyous day of revenge, which
was
on
hurryingon.
the Suburan's blood
which were
such moments,
very frequent,
patience
imin his veins,and his spirit
chafe in vehement
would tingle
at the tardyapproach of his wished-for
opportunity.
He would stretch forth his fistand shake it,in helplesswrath,
afforded his enemy
an
at the rocky isle which
asylum, and
where

he himself

opportunity.So
reason,

to

the

seemed

to

mock

amid

the

was

unable

often
same

him

as

to

enter,
"

nor

dared, had he the

he felt impelled,though

againsthis

fruitless survey, so
often the island
with its changelessform, its very sloth

its impenetrable rocks and impervious

waters, its silence,
he might
It emitted nothing from which
mystery.

glean a reliable idea of the dispositionof affairs within its

ing
He could do nothing but gaze at the irritatjealousbosom.
anathematise
and
it,
sight with a kind of fascination,
downward.
His cunning
with all it contained, from Caesar
and he was
and vigilance
were
helpless,
compelled to realise
but patienceand watchfulness.
left to him
that nothing was
in Capreae he could not work
out
As long as Afer remained
his plan. He was, therefore,eager and anxious for every appearance
in
of
Martialis
the
the
from
of
island,
learning
hope
for
Rome.
of the earlydepartureof the Prefect and his friends
of such an
He was
revolvingthe possibilities
appearance
in carryassistance
whilst
Nesera
some
one
lending
afternoon,
ing
into the front shop, and
earthenware
basket of new
a
he
he had finished,
arranging them on the shelves. When
him
before he set forth on
his cloak around
leisurely
swung
the
his usual stroll to the Marina, and admiringly watched
of the maiden's tall figure,
as she put the
gracefulmovements
the shelf
on
finishingtouches of arrangement to the wares
With
above
her head.
a
final,critical glance, she turned
his gaze.
'are you not gone?'
'Well,'she said smilingly,
doubtful which
'I was
way to take,'he replied;'but

round

and

met

you have anythingmore

lieve stay.'

for

me

to

help

you

with I would

if
as

'

TALE

xii.

CHAP.

OF

No, nothing at

assumed
'Tell

ails my

what

me

her

241

uncle,'she

moment,

one

face

if struck

as

the

at

by

time

same

sudden

thought.

father?'

with
upright,

she stood

As

look

earnest

an

wait

all ; but

whilst
softly,

quicklyand

added

ROME

ANCIENT

her

"

poiseda

head

little backward,

equalledhis,and her calm, gray eyes looked

full into his own.
With another questioner,
those small orbs of
his would
have twinkled keenly,as his tongue rapped out a
But now
they wandered
ready evasion or banteringretort.
the shelves,
of unwonted
to the pots on
during a moment
It was
embarrassment
and silent indecision.
only for a brief
moment, however, and his glancemet hers again.
ails your father,
I don't
Nesera ? he said quietly
What
;
her

stature

'

'

ails

that he

see

ever, to my
'

That

anything. He

askingyou

am

as

that is sound
is

enough, as you say,

trouble
something preyingon

some

"

noticed

not

'

it ?

am

his mind

sorry

hear

to

head ;
humours

'

but I

am

not

well

so

without
light-hearted,
silent and gloomy, and
There
stillwere

was

He

is

shadow

of

humours.

or

his

as

with
swiftly,
'

"

strange ways

you

acquaintedwith

'

have

it,'
repliedCestus, slowly

say

you

you are.'
has no
He
ways and humours,'she retorted
slightbut significant
rearing of her form

ways

'

shakinghis
and

with him ?

as

'

regardshis bodilyhealth ;
thank the gods. But there

not

"

in health

sound

as

seems

is the matter

what

Why,

eyes.

'

ever

open,
ill-humour.

hides away from us

in her voice,and
tremor

fixed
steadfastly

on

his

face,he

"

at

least

no

cheerful,and

what

he

Now

is it ?

is

'

in the eyes, which

the trembling
saw

gleam of tears.
Nay, how should I know better than his daughter? he
said,lookinguncomfortablyat the pots once more.
His daughterknows
nothing save this,that this trouble,
it may
whatever
be, which weighs upon him, began at the
'

'

'

time you

came

here from

Rome.'

'

ing
Ah, then,'said Cestus, shrugginghis shoulders and drawa
deep breath as if relieved,if that is but the measure
it is easily
of the evil,
mended
by my shoulderingmy wallet
and trampingback to Rome.
this
You
should have told me
'

before.

I wouldn't

be

burden
R

to

the

house, and

be

the

NEMRA

242

shadow

bringing a

of

cause

II.

I'AKT

on

for all Sur-

pretty brow

your

rentum.'
'

Ah

! I

shook

He

with

more

so

not

delicate

his

head, and

his

broad

face

still

expanded

grin.

I've noticed

tell me

with
that,'she said hastily,

cheeks.

her
flushing

colour

'

meant

that you

to
plainly

now

you mean,
shall I be offended

nor

go,

Neaera

what

usuallysay

at

your

plainspeaking.'
'

meaning on my words you are wrong,

I thought was,
What
have spoken them.
brought him illnews, or something which

put that

If you

and

ought not to
that you might have
weighs on his mind.'
I ! why I have
not
might
long years ! We
'

could

What

time.

seen

or

heard

well

as

have

been

have

brought

with

him

do-well about

He's bothered
you say.
and his.
I'lltry and find

away.'
straight
so, I'llmarch
'
that he was
I remember
without

And

he was,

doubt

be

a
even
sorry to see
best
But
I will do my

have

out

him

ne'er-

and, if 'tis

you,'

see

him.
for he is too

vagabond
to

to

strangelyoverjoyedto

at
repliedNesera, gazing steadily
'

all that

dead

to trouble

me

enough, it is as

Like

for fourteen

him

from

try and

like

good-heartedto
myself turn up again.

find

the

out

myself.'
in
determined to find yourself
will not believe what I say.'

trouble

and

that,move
it,and, failing

move

If you are so
help it,since you
'

'

must

best

of guests
it be with me
?'

The

can

fault I cannot

outstay his welcome

; what

ejaculatedNesera curtly,and she

you will,'
again to the pots on the shelves with great dignity.
Cestus grinnedand his eyes twinkled.
'As

'At

would

least you couldn't deny that if I went

off your shoulders,and
feel as if a load was

sit down
'

to

You

your supper
that is
know

answer,'she

not

with

better

with

turned

to-day you
you

appetite.'
speaking,and

of
not
a fair way
said, turning round

then

reproof

would

I shall
in

her

eyes.
'

Well

be like

one

! well ! I
of

am

not

yourselvesin

so

foolish

the

as

to

expect that I

can

not caring
house,'he replied,

CHAP.

xii.

TALE

OF

ANCIENT

ROME

243

the matter

'
It is your good treatment
any further.
which
has made
selfish. However, I may be able to do
me
some
member
day, and show you that I can reyou all a good turn

push

to

kindness.'

'There

is

need, and

no

like
talking
never

this ; we
shamed
as

so
'

Nay,

good

deal

to

as

should

I cumber

ever.

Moreover

you

weary
to

is

Such

streets.

you

as

The
and

soon,

fresh air and

your

longer?

nature.

justas

is

'

like

It would

and

would

as

bad

manners.

quietof

this

fret after crowded

bustle of Rome

would

be

return

thankful

Would

sleepytown.

am
"

and

peace
make
me

giant why

be

the

roar

you

round, and

Rome

to

citybred, and
it is,begins to

am

place,beautiful

any

back

was

a
humbly ; I am
not
altogethereasy.

place has pulled me

I will go

strong

house

our

"

its doors.'

Cestus

conscience

my

cause

guest from

in
rightto persist

no

no

swear,'said

jest,but

fresh air of this

The

given you

turn

I will

that
in

have

have

you

to

like

you

to

to

go

Rome, Neaera?'
!'she said.

'Ah

Cestus

Cunning

girl. It
of

put such

to

for

was

questionto

young

nothing but the mischievous

curiosity

watchingthe

bosom
'

at

Will

sparklein her eye, and the deep heave

the very mention
of such a thing.
go back
'
No one

you

the tempter.
knows
no
one
for weeks

the

could

cityand

could

for

me

you

better

of her

the voice

of

of you than I :
better than I
every day

its ways

care

"

sights.'

new

only say

time ? ' said

take

would

I show

Nesera

But

with

vincial
pro-

no,

and

shake

her

head

in

despairing
way.
'

I would

not

'

Let him

come

be

happy

It would

be useless

'

For

your

sake he would

For

the sake of

been

there,and
'

And

once

can

never

so

would
'

be

was

he

as

It is out

not

not

do
when

great
of

father.'

as

the

ask him.'
'

come.

pleasuretrip? No
long since returned.'

that

as

to

not

happy

leave my

too.'

'

'

to

"

?
your account
again? You know
on

you

are

pleased.

yours.'
said
question,'

Nesera

Besides

he has

What

rightwell
His

he

own

has

done

that he is

enjoyment

though
firmly,

her

NEALRA

244

I'.M:T

n.

a
flushed ; and
Cestus, who had seated himself on
stool,regarded her with evident,though restrained enjoyment.

cheeks

on

your
true, in

it is justas

and

he continued,
other,'

no

Rome

to

that he will go there againon your account.'

Nesera raised her eyes to his and the wondering expression

mind,

my

sufficient demand

was

'

is

There

and

by

mark

words,

my

pored keenly

which
profile,
lightstreamingupon

of her

it

studied

and,
intently,

to

which
ordinary gratification

a
'

recalled to his

double

Have

open-frontedshop.

case,

the
He
his

with
altogether

the

the

from

templation
con-

satisfaction
particular

similar

which

her

face

symmetry and
admired, therefore,

pure

he

mind, and

under

expressionof

the

from

naturallyarises

inspired. A similar sweetness,

with

the

powerful recollections

the

proceedingfrom
was
nobility,

relief
singular

judge

beauty, but, in this

of

ness
perfectloveli-

the

upon

head

her

in

showed
it from

expression

an

she turned

great satisfaction. Not

with

countenance,

you.'
again,but

near

face,and

her

speech.

take you.
You will go there
and your father and
mother,

faint colour

over

Suburan

The

white

to

me

company,
will follow to be

stole

sadness

aside.

for

gathereda

cheek

deep

need

no

explanationwithout

for

in better

by

Her

of

been
'

and

account

has

he

'Yes, it is quite true

pleasure.

assuringly.

'

need

One

will

father

fear, your

no

not

be

augur

an

follow,'said

Cestus

that.'

to foretell

'Alas, I think it is only I myself that give him this

repliedNesera, with a heavy sigh.
trouble,'
tellinga lie with
at all !' responded Cestus, never
Not
'

pleasure.

more

It will all

that.

till I'm

Wait

'

go, and
wait. '

gone

perhaps

'

Who

'

Why,

do you
the man

I don't
come

right
only want
"

"

you

mean

who

matter, but it isn't

it isn't sunshine every day.

what's the

know

will tell

me

to

see

how

one

long

person before
I shall have

absently.
long,take you

I
to

?' said Nesera

before
will,

to

Rome"

the Centurion.'
'

I know

want

you

not

with him

that he

will take

me

thither,and

what

can

?' said Neaera.

Merely a questionor two

afraid,and
opinion of me, I am
'

"

you see
I would

he

has

like

to

but

poor
better
part

CHAP.

TALE

xir.

friends.

be

I may

ANCIENT

OF

him

able to do

ROME

245

service

who

day

some

"

knows?'
'

'

can

He

can,'said Neaera.
repliedCestus, that's as

'

Humph

'

"

do you
Nothing, except for

month.
'

what

But

sure

business of my
here as soon
as

own

to ask

want

him

he

; and

to

might

; but

be

?'

little information

death

as

nothingnearer?'
he might be here to-day,or

giveme
Nothing

you
'

he

when

comes

tell him

connected
to

with

get you

away
that
be
able
I
to
possible,
get a
may
again before long in the city.'

some

from

glimpse of you
He
laughed and

so

rose

his seat about

from

to go

forth into

the town.
'

proud

The

pretend to

Surrentum

to

But

name.
are

you,'he went on,

the laugh ot them, for
the city. 'Twill be

in

wife

here.

Rome

'

never

Proud

"

order

of the Centurion's

at

sneer

will have

you

"

dames

from

fear ; you
and
dames

but you
you
a

need

will be

will be
damsels

as

perhaps
mind

not

the handsomest

great change from

potter'sdaughter

will

to

noble

pat in the place as you

! the handsomest

wife in

you will have the laugh of them.'

'
of them,'said Nesera ;
I seek to interfere with none
stillthe potter's
talk idly,uncle ; I am
daughter.'
Rome

"

'

That

is

so

!' said Cestus

'

now

I'm

'

you

off !'

stepped to the door of the shop,and, after the manner

those whose
time is not
of many
especially
people,and more
too
fullyoccupied,he hesitated when he stood on the step,
if to collect his thoughts into a singlesteady current
of
as
This
deliberation before he finallyadvanced.
momentary
halt for reflection was
accompanied by an abstracted glance
the familiar objectsout-of-doors.
the left was
round
To
to
and creeper-grown
wall of the
be seen
nothing but the moss
road, which crossed at rightangles,some
yards away ;
fifty
built and
the sparsely
to the right,
quiet lane trended away
The
toward
the town.
only signs of life therein,at that
three groups
of children playing,a
two
were
or
moment,
couple of dames standingin the roadway to gossip,as they
met
carryingtheir water pitchers,and, at a distance of a
hundred
yards or so, two men
advancing. Turning
leisurely
the left to the sightof these two
from the blank prospect on
He

NE"RA

246
individuals

the lack-lustre,
pre-occupiedgaze
right,
into acute
attention.
snapped electrically

he

of

back

shrank

doorpost, and,
functions

n.

the

on

Suburan

the

PART

behind

shelter of the

the

of

stinctive
In-

broad

brief moments,
he assumed
the
the savage hunter.
animal,or its imitator,

for the

few

savage
attitude bent
seemed
to prick up ; his body took an
ears
forward, with muscles braced and corded, and head
slightly
His

thrust

prominentlyout.

down

so

low

as

His

almost

heavy

obscure

to

thick brows

knitted

were

his intense

his

gaze, and

clenched
and
protruding.
lips were
stubbly-bearded
Altogetherthe change was so rapid,and his present appearance
about
that
and
to
resume
Nesera,
absorbed,
so menacing
with
struck
her occupation,
was
surprise.
centrated
Her eyes naturallyfollowed in the direction of his con-

stiff

gaze, but

inside
position

her backward

owing to

the

her view.

shop, nothing met

said,steppingto his side to look

and straightento himself,
Her voice recalled the Suburan
ing
the
himself up, he cast a partingglance at
new-comers,
close at hand, and turned
now
away into the house, saying
hurriedlyhe had forgottensomething.
is it?' she

'What

strange behaviour

The

Neasra, and
a

reason.

had

drawn

her

with

she stood

in the

Suddenly

she

within

twenty

direct

gaze.

away
until they should
for

pass

foot sounded

became

that

aware

the

mind

of

brains for
two

men

thirtyyards,and were
regarding
Recovering herself abruptly,she

or

But

on.

on

in the

stuck

doorway puzzlingher

remained

inside,and

turned

of Cestus

the

with

her back

in this she

step, and

road,

disappointed,

was

voice

to the

'

said,

You

can

wait,Erotion !'
In

the

meantime, Cestus

left the

shop, and

rushed

into

previouslydescribed as a kind of state apartment,

which laybetween the shop on one
side,and the kitchen
from the shop
Into the wall dividingthis room
the other.
on
let a small square window, unglazed,which admitted air
was
rather high up, and a couple
It was
and lightat second hand.

the littleroom,

of small
to

statuettes

the couch

topmost
his eyes

which

stood
stood

in the

opening.

Cestus

bounded

underneath, and, steppingunto

enabled
pinnacleof its framework, he was
sufficiently
high to overlook what passed in

to

the

on

the

bring
shop.

CHAP.

He

any

to

still more

littlestatuettes

shield the

which
instinct,

never

just taken up
stopped before

his post, when

the door of the

admitted

it when

knew

small

247

closer

All this

in
together,

himself

portionof

of observation.

possiblechance

'I

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

arrangedthe

furthermore

order

TALE

xii.

from

inspiredby

was

of any

doubt, and he had only

Afer, and his Greek, Erotion,

shop.
caught sight of them,'

muttered

the

Suburan, with burning eyes and tumultuous breathing. What

brings him here, of all placesin the world ? What is in his
'

brain
He
dark
been

What

now

does

it

quiveringwith

was

stain which

mind, whilst
he watched

leaf.

and

With

hate

skin,his face would have

and forebodingstore
his
shook

his faculties

listened for what

anything?'

excitement,and, but for the

fears

and

he know

Does

for his

thousand
dread

nervous

quiveredlike

intense

he stillused

ashy white.

mean

should

at

him

tillhis frame

their utmost

stretch

follow.

if to assure
as
himself,Afer entered
scrutiny,
that the lynxthe shop, and Cestus observed,with satisfaction,
in the roadway. The
further the
eyed Erotion remained
Greek was
away the freer he breathed,for he knew his profound
old.
of
subtlety
Neaera heard the leisurely
step of the knight behind her,
but did not turn until he spoke and called her attention to his
Then
her gaze rested on the visitor,
whose
presence.
person
in
its
clothed
accustomed
of
was
perfection styleand taste,
white and
whose
to a fold, and
even
carefully
-kept hands
with gems.
Customers
of rank and position
not
were
glittered
to her,since Masthlion had a certain reputation
new
altogether
After

close

for the character

of his

work,

so

that she

was

in

no

wise disconcerted

of the

superior
grade of the comer
; but there
that in the expression
of his closely-set,
black
was
glistening,
which
affected her uncomfortably.
lips,
eyes and supercilious
treated her to a leisurely
He, moreover,
might
survey, which
on

account

passed without remark, had its object been the merits of

or
a horse
dog, but which the beautiful girlresented inwardly
freedom
and boldness.
for its impertinent
The half nodding,
his face,
condescending approval which plainlyshowed
on
roused her indignationeven
and, with a flush on her
more,
cheeks, she drew up her tall frame, and returned him a glance
of high displeasure.Afer
faintlysmiled, evidentlyamused
have

NEAERA

248
thereat.

curled

He

his thin

in his tone, whilst

faint drawl

PART

lips,and

spoke again

Cestus,above

at his

n.

with

post,ground

his teeth in

suppressedrage.
'This is the shop of Masthlion
the potter?'
'It is ! replied
and coldly.
Neaera, briefly
smiled
Afer scanned
her over
and
again
with good looks,but,at the
favoured
certainly
'

the

"

amusing to

was

increased

the fact had

I have

'

to

for

see

heard

these
the

to

are

the

extent

his

her

own

handiwork, I

?
presume
the shelves were

with which

ware

time,it
knowledge of

same

eyes.
is skilful in his work, and I

his query was

answered
'I will look at them.

and

great

importance in

her

that he

myself;

nodded

He

to what

observe

girlwas

came

'

filled,

in the affirmative.
You

are

his

daughter;

is it not

so?'
'

to be rid of the
am,' repliedNesera, and resolving

pany
com-

of this
air

so

were

his

to

wants

workshop
'

No

and

fetch him.
'

'

make

occasion

no

and

would
of his

and

who

take him

to

not

to

"

specimens for my
sound their praises.'
'Will you please to

these

and
'

your

taste

own
'

It

is true

littleI possess ;
collection of treasures

very well that the

it is. I prefer
"

for

noble
yourself,

answered

cold

sir,and see
Neaera, curtly

smile, but
'

am

I not

selection ?'
I

can

be of

help ;

you

know

your

I.'

have

share of taste in such

what

look

perceivehow

better than

as

industrious,

fair hands
submit
your own
fair lipsto
approval,and your own

anything suitable?'

aid in my

cannot

knows
hands

is

He

have

loftily.
he replied,
with
Naturally,'

have
'

be

there

his work.

is in better

customers

would

whether

from

like it,and, moreover,

not

care

to

Afer, detainingher with his hand,

! exclaimed

no

giving a slightlaugh, I have no consuming desire to

your worthy father's acquaintance; and, besides,there

and

is

whose
individual,
impertinence and patronising
she added
that her father should attend
irritating,
turned to go to the
himself,and she accordingly

been

small
thought to have some
matters, and to comprehend thoroughly
but in the midst of such a bewildering
here around
as I see
me, my perception

CHAP.

ROME

249

and requires
one
strengthening. I require
fault,

is at
and

ANCIENT

OF

TALE

xii.

specimen,

I leave the selection to your superiorjudgment.'

round
The
knight allowed his eyes to sweep
infinite

with

'treasures'

Surrentine

scorn.

ware

the

at

well

was

only of a lower order,and held no place in

the shelves of the wealthy.
the eyes of the art critic,
or on
Whether
Nesera comprehended her customer's tone or not,
she
her face gave no
sign; but, without the least hesitation,
about twelve
a vase,
stepped before him and reached down

known, but it was

inches

design,and

in
a

held it to his hands.

high,and

highlyfinished

more

fellow to it remained

than

elaborate

more

was

in the

any

shop, and

the shelf.

on

pair,then, is

'This

It

the

and

best

the

handsomest

can

offer.'
'

with the faintest littlesneer,

content,'he replied,

am

he touched

the

with the extreme

vase

tip of

and turned it slightly

to one
jewelledfingers,
the other; 'they shall have a niche in my

the

to
paltryequivalent

have

We

such

record

no

And

?
masterpieces
the

of

of his white

one

side and

market

then

atrium

little Roman

the rest of my wretched

pipkins shall bow down before them.
and
Esquiline,

as

the

on

to

the

pots and

pricethereof,

'

price of

Surrentine

but with the utmost

readiness and sangfroid,Neaera
industry,
calmly named a pricethat caused the knightto start and frown
such matters,
on
being an undoubted
portentously,
authority
and a keen bargainerby nature
as well as necessity.
and eyes in
Cestus, in his observatory,
opened his mouth
blank astonishment for a moment
; for,having passed no small
portionof his idle time in the shop, he had learned tolerably
of the simple goods, and of these articles now
well the prices
since his
unsold
offered in particular.They had remained
whilst ranks of others of simple utility
had
found
arrival,
owners,

in the meantime
amazed

them, was

to hear

greater than that which

stared down

from

waiting before
Suburan

to

her

wandered

his former

his

so

that

the

girlask

he knew

the

and

laugh outright.

Now

stand

her,but
when

such
to

least

times

ten

their fixed value.

expressionon

was
patron, his delight
'

priceat

to be

loopholeupon

customer,
to

Cestus, well acquaintedwith

your

she stood

the

glance

the face of the

He

calmly
of the

knight,

nearlycaused him
bargain,you cur,'he

as

NE"RA

250

PART

muttered, amid

IT.

chuckles.
By Hercles, she's touched
many
; she couldn't have thrust deeper ; she might have known
I do
clever wench ! '
as

him
him

'

"

'You
slave
the

said Nesera.

then?'
approve,
'
take them ?
She

to

made

'Shall

move

if

as

I
to

call your
take down

remaining on the shelf,but he raised his flashing

fingersdeprecatingly.
'Stay,'he replied,as his look of disgustrelapsed once
into its former
I don't question
more
superciliousness
;
but I take leave to challengeyour
moment,
your taste for one
surelybe mistaken as to the priceyou put
memory
you must
these wonderful
on
specimens. In my humble
opinion it is
and out of all proportion to the intrinsic
quite prohibitive,
vase

'

"

value of the
'

'

'

things.'

I have

done

to do.'
you desired me
'
Yes, yes ; but the cost ?
Is what
I have already told you, and
as

alter it

cannot

penny.'

one

It is out

'

wish

profitby

to

that account, much

I would
as
judgment, I shall be compelled to

and

of reason,
your

on

foregoit.'
'

Ah

'

And

'

snarled

Cestus.

that I doubt

whether

my

dischargethe debt,even
Pah

'

'

continued
truly,'

given with

'

the

was

Afer, the

slave's purse

supposing I

muttered

fathomless

requiredis so large,

sum

contains

think

contempt,

the

liar !

of the
He

to

incur it.'

rightto

commentary
'

sufficient

Suburan,

knows

to

farthingwhat the fellow's pouch has in it nothing beyond a

betide him if he can't
few copper coins,I'llwarrant
; and woe
he gets home.'
square his reckoning when
In that case, I suppose, I should be right in saying that
such a poor wretch
as
hope for credit,'
myself could never
"

'

continued
'

You

Afer, with
are

sneer.

repliedNeasra.
perfectstranger,sir,'

I shall,
be
therefore,
Exactly with no recommendation.
in keeping with
compelled to select something more
my
of
I
will
be
humble
resources
afraid,
ready coin, which, am
modest
task,if pricesare all levied at the same
an
impossible
'

"

computation.'
'This, then, perhaps you

may

approve

of,'said

Neaera

to him

handed

and

goingto

and

promptly;

high,without
glassbottle.
Ah, now

end
opposite

the

251

shop,she

of the

brown

took

inches

three

two
or
vessel,
to beauty than
pretension

small

more

any

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

TALE

xii.

CHAP.

ordinary

any

exclaimed
hit my taste exactly,'
Afer,
with the
of plainarticles in his hand
plainest

'

have

you

receivingthe

exquisite
irony; you have indeed gauged
ideas to a nicety. The other articles were
reallyas much
my
above
their cost was
as
my
beyond my artistic appreciation
in its beautiful simplicityI
poor purse ; but this is delightful
its price.'
wait to hear you name
'

smile of

blandest

"

indeed.

modest

is asked

what

Greek

the

license

same
'

Neaera
her

upon

an

been

I have

many

time I

next

to

the

standingwith

come

I shall

secure,

his

on

passed through the door, and

him, leaving Neaera

belied,'

been

not

no

example.'

others to follow my
his white teeth with

saying,and showing
the shop followed by Erotion,who,
he

cloak

with this littletreasure

enough

fortunate

So

as

three

or

from the slave,

the money
admiring gaze, with something of

provided; yet, even

be able to induce

turned

two

his master.

as

Afer ; '
I shall come
better

left

pay

took

find your father's fame has

The
it is only too evident.

which

he ; ' it is
and
I am

arrangedhis

master

glad to

am

observed

doubt

producing the

was

needed, his

were

his leave.

bestowed

said
accept,'

you.'

of

the young
coins which

who

! I

my means,
Take
Erotion !
this,and

Hither,

While
copper
and took

Good

is,I think, within

It

mind.

in

relieved

'

him.

informed

Nesera

smile,he

own

account,

smirked

behind

in
deepest indignation

her face.

They

re-entered the
'

Did

view when

passed from
scarcely
shop, and goingto

had

them

see

you

"

do

the door

you

peered after
them

know

hurriedly

Cestus

'

them.

exclaimed

Neasra.

'Yes, yes, I
before
answered

patch

Cestus

think,for
He

"

along

come

"

think

will try and

hastily. 'I

will go

I have

seen

him

where
some-

back,'
through the fields,I

before

come

stroll.'

retreated
of

them

saw

garden

through
in

the

the

house, and

rear,

emerged

crossingthe
into

small

cart-track.

NE"RA

252

This
the
and

ran

more

gardens and
there

ahead

path

main

back

reached

from

end

such

extreme

houses.

an

the

Here

of communication

which

one

forms

Cestus

tween
beran

commanded

of this he waited

of Afer

then, being sure

his slave

and

he

in their

was

He either forgothis altered

up into the street.
had such small faith in its ability
to
mislead

or

he

was

of

care

the

At the bottom

to end.

until he saw
few moments,
the upper end, and
cross

appearance,
those whom

belongingto

II.

skirted

street,and

thoroughfares,and

rear, he walked

the

for convenience

and

until he

ready view

parallelwith

little fields

was

the

less

or

PART

native woods.

dogging,that he
trackinga wild

now

hunter

with

followed
animal

the

throughits

kept them in view at the furthest possible

behind
distance; stopped when they stopped, and cowered
walls or anythingwhich came
handiest,to avoid the slightest
chance of being noticed.
One of the firstactions he observed
that of Erotion,who, in answer
his
to something which
was
master
said, threw away to one side an article he carried.
Cestus instinctively
guessed what it was, and followingon,
passed the fragments of the small, recently
-purchased pot
his suspicions,
lying at the foot of a wall. This act confirmed
that his former patron's
in
Masthlion's
object
visiting
that of buying of the wares
it connot
distinctly
tained.
shop was
The
Suburan, in consequence,
plunged still deeper
into an agony
of suspicion,
and as often as he soothed himself
with
could

be

He

the fact that it

known,

so

impossiblethat

was

plagued himself

often he

Nesera's
afresh

identity
with the

its probability.

questionof

track of the knight

Step by step he pursued the leisurely
until they reached the centre
of the town, where
Afer visited
two
one
or
shops. After this they entered the baths,and
Cestus

He
when

left to cool his heels for

was

was

once

on

distance,whence

sleuth-hound

scent, and
he

of undaunted

there

could

considerable

time

mettle,however,

beinga wine-shopat

watch

the

door

of

the

and
his quarry had entered,he proceeded thither,
bowl of thin wine.
He
determined
a
was
over

sat

last of

them, since he could

if haunted
chance

time

by

the

face to

neither

live

side.
out-

nor

move

to

no

great

building
patiently
see

the

in peace,

of encounteringthem
at any
possibility
After a long delay his patiencewas
face.

OHAI".

Marina.

Suburan

the

the

knight

wearing

and

master

which

steps
need

more

follow,

speeding

them
Cestus

gave

sight
at

deliberations.

he

over

deep

turned

liberty

rejoiced

to

darkening
relief.

of

homeward,
devote

his

and,

they

attention

for

had

breeze.

nearly
at

season

entirely

their

fair

were

to

no

watched

long

ere

to

across

he

before

When

of

cliff, observed
and

sea

the

appearance

saunter

the

over

was

when

Thence

danger,

and

afternoon

them

see

whilst

delay,

the

by

pointed
disap-

was

thicken

Marina.

leaning

the

sigh

to

the

to

but,

The
to

island,

pretensions,

lengthy

dining.

the

the

he

considerable

of

the

toward
to

no,

gladdened

more

down

But

beginning

was

boat

another

to

difficulty

without

movements

was

led

to

dusk

He

slave.

inn

an

once

were

eyes

relief.

of

from

retainer,

take

to

probably

most

The

on.

sigh

doomed

was

was

watcher's

meant

entered

they

for

and

of

with

Cestus,
;

perhaps

refreshed

his

by

followed

253

issuing

knight

the

way,

they

Here

thought

the

his

taking

and

of

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

sight

the

by

rewarded

bath,

TALE

xn.

his

out

least,
own

XIII.

CHAPTER

his

from

AWAY
were

crowded

Imperial city,where his wits

bright and sharp by the friction of
the lethargic
Suburan
had fallen under

haunts

kept ever
humanity, the

influence

of

inoccupationin

utter

His

town.

in the

comparativelylifeless provincial

mind, latterly,
may

said

be

have

to

only

smouldered.

instantaneouslyand unexpectedly
into high excitement
and
it was
roused
activityfrom a state of
passiveexistence.
mere
Just as the blast of a forge-bellows
kindles,in an instant,a dull smoking heap of black ashes
flamed
Afer inthe sight of Domitius
into a glowing fierymass, so
It

been

has

how

seen

of Cestus.
the listless spirit

Fearing lest
mind

to

wandered

he

he

should

betray some

the
eyes around
aimlessly until the

the keen

along

pass, and his thoughts become

he visited one
latter process

should
the

symptoms

turbed
per-

supper-tableat home,
time

more

or

of his

two

for that

serene.

meal
assist

To

wine-shops

which

hearty
path,and fortified himself with some
he passed on to the outskirts of
draughts of liquor. Thence
Here
and
the town
sought the silent roads and darkness.
most
solitude and
the brooding stars, circumstances
were
apt
his random

crossed

for

philosophising.
His

ignorance
and

argued
for
and

the
that

the

positionof

actual

most

with

present, safe
Afer

of the

could

no

himself

more

identitythan
girl's

and

have
a

said ; and yet what was

patron to the potter'sshop ?

assured,he

affairs left him

It was
distractingsurmises.
that his
proved to himself continually,

the

to

prey

of

any

Was

he

lay,
the
potter only ;
picion
knowledge or sus-

bird of the

air.

brought
it to buy ?

it that

in vain
secret

This

was

his dam
quonNo ; that

was

he

What

had

bought

had

Suburan's

the

harassment

did

What
he

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

pretence.

mere

TALE

xin.

CHAP.

he

255

with

want

thrown

face

such

wares?
in

Even

away.
with
twisted
a

his

called
grin,as he reexpressionof the knight's

shop,and the
face when
acquaintedwith the priceof the vases.
of
The
conclusion,therefore,forced itself on the mind
the object
that Neaera was
Cestus,and would not be dislodged,
visit. And, again,how was
of the ominous
it,and from whom
had he learnt of the existence of the girlin such an out-ofhis foot was
of the town, where
never
likely
the-waycorner
the

in the

scene

tread of its

to

accord

own

It

was

for his work, and

reputation
being known, it might have reached

certain

other tattle. This

coincidence
and

too

was

argument

no

restricted

was

such

to

Then

in torment.

beauty of

Neaera

the

strong for the reasoner's peace of mind,

His thoughts,
potent to comfort him.
writhed and twisted
inquiry,
length,exhausted and chagrinedwith
field of

narrow

that the

had

knight'sears amidst
prompted his curiosity
; but the

have

might

Masthlion

that

true

at

the fruitlessness of his

He
rage.
the most

and

all

whose

shook

the head of his treacherous patron

on
curses
frightful
to him, includingthe impenetrableisland,
appertaining
silence held

sealed

his would-be

at

bay.

aroused

The

and

first glimpse of

added

fuel to

his

with the sense

This, combined
comparativepowerlessnessin his present

detestation.

and

and
insecurity

situation,
put

him

had

murderer

mingled fear
of his

he gave way to a paroxysm

of
efforts,
his clenched
and his mouth
vomited
fists,

him

almost

beside

himself

for

few delirious

passed him at this point,or they might

have been
at the fierce gestures and
affrighted
superstitiously
the shrill,
hissingnotes of this shadowy form in the dark road.
his veins
The
short frenzy,however, sufficed to purge
its fury had
fled it left him
somewhat, and when
tively
comparacalm
and collected.
became
of an appetite
He
aware
No

moments.

which
When
flown

needed
he

one

and
appeasing,

entered

the

his steps homeward.

found
that the time had

he turned

house, he

family
all in bed.
He
not
were
was
and,
sorry, however, at this,
after eating the supper
been
which
had
left standing for
to
him, he went
bed, where his excited thoughts kept him
from sleeptillnighthe time when
beginning
earlyrisers were
considerablybeyond

his

and
reckoning,

that the

256

NEMKA

stir between

the

ii.

PART

collect their

and
bedclothes,

thoughtsfor a
Then
indeed he sleptheavily,
and came
new
day's labour.
down
late,to find every one busy in their dailyoccupations
Masthlion,as usual,locked in his workshop.
to

"

Whilst
as

eyes.
You
did

'

bed,' she

not

said.

said about

you

trouble
'

yesterday until

It

because

was

being

presence

the

all gone

in
persisting

are

you

had

we

cause

of

mind

was

to

what

father's

my

old

other

matter

triflewith this

to

friend,and

'

question, I

talkingabout

sat

we

fully

too

met

times

old

till

that's all.'

'

by sayingwhat
rude,' repliedCestus,

You
I

'

and

vexed

was

'

comfortable

been

and

out

into the

father

intend

not

and

you
what

Ah, then you know

'I have
find

Your

am

too

you did.'
he rose
as

me

sorry.
yet, and I do

time
am

with anxious

all,'replied Cestus, whose

at

an

"

"

came

return

your

weighted with
late

'

in,fresh and fair

thought in her lustrous,

Nesera

of mind.'

Not

with

breakfast

but
morning itself,

the

gray

eatinghis

ails him

It is

sunshine.

What

for

me

joking

was

"

?'

I have
fine

an

idea;

"

I will

but
be

day I must
pleasantmorning for
a

table,

kind.'

too

and
thinking,

tell you.

without

quit you.

to

are

do

cannot

the

from

off

out

tripfrom

Capreae.'
looked

He
which
'

remember

You

marked

faint

the

tinge

her cheek.

to

rose

sidelongat her, and

that

who

man

into the

came

shop yesterday,'

she remarked.

Cestus, with lack-lustre eyes.

'Yesterday!'murmured
'Yes

! you

looked

interest in them

; then

him

at

you

h'3 slave

and

hurried

away

and

as

if you took an
back when
came

they had gone.'

'

Oh"

ah !'

said you knew

I know
that I have

them.'

'You
'

on

the

Esquiline;

likelyon the
a holiday.'
'

Is he

same

great

seen

but what
errand

man

?'

him
he does

as

my

in

Rome,

here

poor

and

that he lives

I don't know.

self
"

change

Very

of air and

CHAP.

his

'In

TALE

xni.

OF

ANCIENT

ROME

doubtless
estimation,

own

257

he is of

"

rank,
knightly

I believe.'

hope
'

for

behaviour

His

'

he may
'Tis very
time.

is

did

keep

pace with his rank

visit.'

not

pay us another
if he has come
he may
likely
If he does don't fail to tell me
not

"

sojourn here
it,and of all he

to

of

scamps, and thinks that

the cityswarms
with
every good-lookingpoor girlis fair prey
such.
But let me
know, and don't be afraid. I am city-bred
He

says.

one

of your

then

well-dressed

"

like himself,and
end

thing or two,

reach down
'

Oh, I'm
father

'Ay,

he

as

something of

went, with
his cloak.

put

soon

an

this brave

uttered

in his

swagger

'

afraid,'
repliedNesera

not

will

and

anything.'

his littlegame
if he means
Cestus squared his shoulders
to

speech,and

my

know

calmly,

gait,to
I have

and

hand.'

at

that's true!'

better,who

could

said

tear

don't fail to let

the

cur

know.

me

fellow,which

of the

Cestus

makes

'and
slily,

limb

from

I have

some

me

another

limb

still

less,
neverthe-

"

ledge
previous knowand I may easily
curious,

be useful.'
Thus
and

light
deliveringhimself he went forth into the brightsunhis feet turned in
the crispkeen air. Instinctively

the direction of the road which

of Minerva.
on

It

customary
communication
line of

main

led to the southern

was

route

of

promontory

his,but it was

also

island,and the
somebody, or something,
with

the

desperatechance of meeting with

which
might afford a glimmer even of news, burned stronger
This something was, however, painin his breast.
than ever
fully
limited
itself
to
the
somebody really
only one
vague, and
have been as joyfulto
The sightof Martialis would
person.
into conin the desert,takingeven
him as rain to the thirsty
sideration,
that what
should
to
was

throw
the

prove
any

to have

the

the

could

his

young

if he

impart,even

would
inclination,

the

lightupon

fact of

Centurion

peculiarneeds.

hardlybe likely
Added

soldier's aversion.

But

to

this

Cestus

easilyabashed or discouraged,and had no fear of

attention.
to command
being able finally
and
down
rest
his observatoryand
to
reached
sat
He
deliberate. Capreae lay before him amid the blue sea, with
was

not

NE"RA

258

PART

n.

palaces tippingits rugged peaks and

this lovelypicture
With
peeping amid its terraced groves.
in thought,
his vision,
he sat for full an hour absorbed
filling

the white

notingthe positionof

then

and

away homeward.
had
and
come

the

to

of

go at
Surrentum

to

he

sun,

himself

at

his

determined,

to

on

the

least

carry off the potter and

least ; if,however, he could

his

familyto

He

much

so

once

; he

whither
city,

also

better.

the

persuade them
do nothing at

could

He

picion
sus-

tired of

was

it,and he would feel safer in

be obligedto go to carry
eventually

he would

his scheme.

walked

position,
only policywas to

that his

conclusion

and

rose

danger, to

Nesera

"

the

reconciled

had

He

be watchful.

wait and
Rome

its

of

gleam

not, therefore,go

Why

at

and

once

the
out

wait there ?

thought also tormented him, that something might occur

which might rob him of his revenge.
He burned
and itched
of his machineryin motion, however
to set the wheels
slightly,
that day to take the first step for that end.
and he resolved
than a mysterioushint to certain people,
If it was
no
more
The

His

commencement.

this determination
he

proceeded to

Marina.

the

at

and

the dictation of

became
instantly

Suburan's

entrance.

old
and short-sighted
bald,shrivelled,

perceivethe

cause

of the

his steps

scribe near
professional
that individual busy at

found

and

sufficient for

be

quickened as
Surrentum,
at, and, re-entering

dwellingof

to
epistle

who

lookingwoman,
head

arrived

was

the

wind, it would

rose
spirits

entered

He

table,inditingan
her

in the

somethingwas

that

sudden

and
young
silent and turned
a

who
writer,

The
man,

did

stoppage

not

the
his

goodaway
was

immediately

of his customer's

eloquence, and castinga longinglook at a large open book

oh
at his elbow, cried out
'Well, well,what next?
testily,
it'syou, is it? you'llhave to wait outside tillI've finished !
love letter,eh ! All right,I'm
A
sorry to interrupt,'
repliedCestus, givinga leer at the young female who tossed
"

'

'

her head.
He
returned
'

book
him

outside

went

take her

to

Well
with

waited

and

place at
snapped the old

'

vicious

his livelihood

thankful for.

wrench,
were

tillshe

came

forth,and

then

the scribe's table.

as

man,

tearinghis

eyes

if the patronage which

nuisance

instead of

from

his

brought

thingto

be

OHAP.

'

let

have

me

OF

see

of mystery.
You
shape your letters

must

two

or

and

from

came

He

the

across

rade
com-

you to write a line

best fingerforemost,

I want

them

make

bringthem

I and

'

look

if

as

they

aristocrat.

some

drew

and

to

man

Cestus.

put your

as

so

259

best,old

of your
them,' answered

good joke in hand,

ROME

ANCIENT

thread

and

Tablets,wax
and

out

TALE

xiir.

piece of

table

the

to

silver from

his

scribe,whose

watery, old eyes

the coin to vanish

glinted

with

ing
astoundcaused
an
grimy fingers
grimy talons
celerity.Cestus laughed, and the same
which the Suburan
selected the articles required,
took into his
view
hands.
examined
with
of
He
them
not
a
carefully,
himself of their quality,
about which he knew
nothing
satisfying
whatever,but for the purpose of assuringhimself that they bore
mark
no
or
impresswhich might afford a clue to their origin.
This provingto his satisfaction,
he told the old man
to go on
with his reading, whilst he considered
the style the
upon
as

his

it

threw

and

pouch

document

bade

care

out

You

may

then

may

'

scribe

the

every

shall

it

and

and

look

to

to

'

That's

scribe did
The
rubbed

Prepare

wait

now

get their

to

the truth.

; and

is
to

deal

her very hand.

Do

forthcoming.

breathe

word

vengeance.
You have often been

Patience
be

would

you lost
These

treasure

this
recognise

you

thieves fall

When

The

own.

receive it and

ribbon ?

and,

Keep

above

all,

destruction to

me

Beware, therefore !'

all
"

read

now

it out

! ' said

accordingly.
Suburan
laughed in his most
the palms of his thick,strong

with

followingwith

the

Fabricius.
rejoice,

shall touch

remainder

beset

am

her.

men

you.

till the
carefully
I

deliberation he

minutes'
write

and

pen

praise the gods

receive them

ere

silence !

few

"

to

you
deceived, but

After
his

take

honest

return

tablets

take.

to

was

; and

Cestus

the old

so

every

style,and
ously
togethervigor-

hands

satisfied

of

appearance

boisterous

delight at

his

composition.
'

Bravo

! ' he

exclaimed

plainand
tolerably

justit,to the very

tolerably
mystified. If this don't

the best frolic of my

you the thread and
He
small

stepped
package.

'

life call

that's

me

chuckle-headed

aside

ready,father
meanwhile, and

Out

of this he drew

wax

letter
"

turn

fool.

out

Get

'

took
a

from

faded

his bosom

pieceof

ribbon

260

NE"RA

and

off

cut

tied

he

laid

He
'

and

up

There

'

piece

the

seal
all

"

breast.

his

into

peaked

long

grunt

rusty

Stay

'

would

'

Pish

with

an

he
his

had,
wine

and

table,

said,

tablets

'

poring

touching
stepped

his

over

the

into

out

'

with

book,

leaves,

back,

coming

the

thrusting

Cestus,

merely

gave

the

passage.
father

Hark'ee,

!
"

not

'

like

snapped

the
nearest

the

irritably
small

of

dwelling

as

Small

entered
with

unusual

on

book.

he

his

was

and

he

faw
guf-

proceeded

commencement,
So

campaign.

satisfaction

and

body,

Suburan's

away
the

lean

The

turned
as

his

of

'

contempt

savage

shrugs

his

over

wine-shop.

water

with

mine

of

joke

pretty

scholar,
series

nevertheless,
and

this

hear

to

indescribable

shook
the

said

customer

Cestus,

himself

huddled

to

cried

you
'

his

'

nearly

nose

as

already

was

the

on

carefully.'

father

Farewell,

who

scribe,

The
his

'

whilst

teeth,

again.

severed

up

right

his

between

it

package

had

he

and

that's

putting

the

replaced

inside

that

Put

portion,

small

n.

PART

and

he

elation.

drank

CHAPTER

had

Suburan
THE mind,
and
delivered.

For

carried

with

an

out

idea

next

course,

to

have

to put the missive

mind, he determined
time,to see if the opportunityhe hoped for

out

came

of the

Marina, the favourite lounge

homeward.

wine-shop,took

of the

his
it

he

made

resolved

away
would

turn

on

townsfolk, and

direct thoroughfare suited

The

longer. Avoiding the street

the potter'spremises. He
drew

of

step was,

completed to

sake this was

an
safety's
arrangement to be
he alreadyhad
due circumspection
; and, as

present itself. He
turned

and

in his

safelyfor
the

letter written

the

the

XIV.

his way to the

there should be

then

him

no

rear
no

of

ward
awk-

faces if he could help it. As he

meeting of unwelcome
patches of garden and
near, passingthrough the irregular

pasture, he
the

Masthlion's

heard
main

the

sound

of horses' feet.

road, alreadydescribed

house,

dress

at
galloping

some

distance,and

and

saw

horseman

swift pace northward.

few yards further on
a

as

He

looked

ward
to-

running nigh to
garbed in military
He

his

was
course

alreadyat
the road

sight. At this point the rider suddenly reined

Cestus, with
something white,and then was gone.
up, waved
his lips,
something like an oath of disappointment between
hastened
a few
on
steps, till the littleworkshop of Masthlion,
with its smoking chimney,came
into view.
the struggling
Then
anathema
rolled forth in full and heartydistinctness,
for there,
the little low wall surrounding the garden-patch of the
on
ing
Neaera, standingmotionless,with her white answerpotter,was
signalin her down-dropped hand, and her eyes yet fixed on
the distant road.
He
had arrived just in time to witness the
he had
the Centurion.
He whom
disappearanceof Martialis,
restless anxiety,
and
for with such
to
expected and watched

dipped out

of

262

NE^ERA

whom

he had

mentallyarranged to consign his

deliveryto

safest

PART

its destination.

His

ii.

letter for the

disgustand

extreme

disappointmentfound its customary relief in a furious spasm

of frightful
language,all the fiercer in that he was obliged to
it,because of neighbours sprinkledhere and there
suppress
nigh at hand in their little plotsof garden ground. When
he looked againfor Nesera she had disappeared. He followed
into the house with a visagedark and sullen as a thundercloud.
him was
The first to meet
Neasra herself;a strange
as
joy sparkledin her eyes and bloomed
contrast, inasmuch
her cheeks.
It was
on
testimonyenough to the glance of
Cestus.
'Hath

the Centurion

not

been

here

but now?'

he

asked,

gloomilyenough.
!' repliedNeasra, with yet
is the matter?'

'Yes

'What
'

dying to
on

the

the

enough,' was

Matter

him

see

and

this

road

to have

sulky answer
speech with

morning,thinkingthat

if I had

chance, and

in her cheeks.

colour

more

'

him.

have
I

been

was

even

might

he

into the town

gone
have followed me
almost

not

pass by
have
I should

He must
on
caught him.
my
home ?'
Curse my luck,why did I not come
straight
You were
unlucky indeed,uncle ; but he will not be

heels.

'

than

more

few

away

days.'

'
Said
long,'growled Cestus.
may prove too
he anythingabout affairs in the island that you can
remember,
'

Even

Neaera ?
before
'

that

That

the Prefect

was

intendingto

return

to

the

city

long?'

No, nothing. But

had

it been

so,

Lucius

would

scarce

returningto Capreae again.'

Humph !' grunted Cestus, as Nesera glidedaway about
arrangements of
business,well satisfied with the existing
been

have

'

her
the

Centurion's commander.

sought the little upstairschamber, where he slept,

and, having hidden the letter to Fabricius in a safe place till
wearied in body and
required,he cast himself on his pallet,
found
Here
he fell asleep and
intenselyirritated in mind.
missive occuHis precious
he awoke.
pied
the day far gone when
into the town
to try
down
his first thoughts,and he went
of sending the same
chance
a public
and discover some
post
Cestus

"

OF

TALE

xiv.

CHAP.

touched

vessel had
the

Cestus

visit to

then

required.

he

as

liberal

subsidy.
plentifully,

liquorflowed

the

he found

delivered it into the

letter and

wine-shop,where
and
completed the transaction,
A

do

full instructions and

hands, with

seaman's

the

to

trading

lucky.
Tiber,and

was

perfectlywillingto

brought the

and

went

her voyage

on

thereof

master

this he

In

system being unknown.

263

ROME

ANCIENT

leave of his

took

Cestus

partinginjunctions.A couple of days

many
left the immediate
vicinity
passed,during which Cestus never
friend with

new

felt constrained
He
for any great lengthof time.
his accusbut the restraint upon
tomed
the exercise of vigilance,
habits of libertyand
soon
began to
self-indulgence

of the house
to

prove
time
'

very
to

irksome.

did

Nor

anythinghappen during

least interest upon.

chanced
to leave the

that

hingethe

If I had

hours, something would

have

been

place for

sure

to have

two

three

or

up,'he

turned

grumbled.
But

little had

what

equilibriumof

the
kind

had

occurred

his mind.

He

was

permanently
beset with

but
uneasiness,dull, intangible,

of vague

unsettled

certain

sleepless;of

which
set the
disagreeablenature of an ill presentiment,
His restlessness
profoundestintellectual subtletyat defiance.
of his thoughtsset, with increasing
increased,and the current
the

constancy and

eagerness, toward
longingresembled that of a sick

his
man

native
or

Rome,

exile.

till the

The

feeling

of himself to the great

that the earlyremoval
strongly,
citytook its place as the firstand most absorbingcare of his
The
mind.
family of the potter, of course, he, of necessity,
rose

so

included
On

with himself.
the

third

sittingalone

was

his knee

on

and

his
arranging

in

his

assent
potter's

his shoulder.

beside him.

He

departure of Martialis,he

of

on

his

procedure,or

approachingMasthlion

the

on

the

hairychin

method

manner

meditations

after

the fire in the

over

the

His

of

day

the

was
weie

He
made

acquiredin her presence,

his bulky shoulder,
she

only

real

by
interrupted
looked

up

and

house, with his elbow

hand, deeplyoccupied
rather in
on

the

decidingon

subject,since

to
difficulty

the
saw

touch

of

Neaera

be
a

met.

hand

standing

with the deference he had

rise,
but,without removing her hand from
pressedhim gentlydown in his place.
as

if to

NE"RA

264
'

You

heard

were

deep

very

PART

in your

thoughts,uncle

; you

ii.

never

come.'

me

with a smile ; but your

enough,'he replied,
a sleeper
or
footsteplacks weight to rouse
day-dreamer.'
You
not
were
asleep,unless you sleep with your eyes
You
were
open,'said Neaera.
deep enough in a day-dream,
'

That's

'

true

'

'

therefore.

can

guess

it not

was

"

'Well, that among

of Rome?'

things,I

other

bound

am

say,'

to

repliedCestus.
'

I have

ask you about

father.
my
since we last spoke?'

thought of him

ever
'

"

I have

Have

to

come

had

not

convenient

you

said Cestus,
opportunity,'

with hesitation.
'

What,

'To

in,'said

not

Ah, that is a

thinkingof him
Cestus, guiltily
dropping his eyes to
speak truth,I

making
'

in all this time ?

up my
is
dusk
It

mind

when

was

the

!'

excuse
came

you

fire ;

'

was

before

night.'
Nesera, shaking her head

to talk to

said
already,'

him

poor

gently

him.
believing
That is so,'replied
Cestus,sweepinghis glance round the
little room,
where the shadows
were
gatheringthick,and the
flames of the fire in the brazier were
beginningto
flickering
if scarce

as

'

define themselves
of time.

am

going to

takingtime

'

the walls ;

on

open

but there yet remains

weightysubjectwith

plenty
him, so

consider.'

am

may that be?' asked Neasra, seatingherself

stool beside him and lookinginto his face.
'And

what

kept his glanceon

Cestus
'

to

it

a
'

so.

indeed

so

I want

the fire as

he

matter

after

grave a
him to

cut

man

Here

we

responded

have

the fair

been

on

replied:
all,but he is

loose from

in Rome.
take up his abode
of skill. Here he is buried.'

and

town

for

It is not

make

to

this tomb

It is the

sure

of

only place

happy and content, until lately,'

with a sigh.
I don't think you will
girl,
very

'

succeed.'

help me,' observed Cestus.

'My father is the best judge,and I will abide by what he says.'
said the Suburan, emphasisingthe
He must
go eventually,'
word
must, so that you might as well persuade him to move
'

Yes, if you would

'

'

with

me

at

once.'

CHAI-.

'

TALE

xiv.

Must

And

go !

OF

Suburan's

The

twinkled

eyes
at her beautiful face.

Nothing

asked

wrinkled

her

dark-hued
look.

Then

'

said

?' said

pretty brows
face

sidelongglance

quietly
;

rather than

now

shaggy

she shook

I cannot

to be

him

compel

to

he shot

as

he
yourself,'

but

persuade him

to

you
Nesera

'

is there then

what

265

in surprise.
quickly,

Nesera

'

ROME

ANCIENT

and

with

'

is

that

why

leave it later.'
panion's
perused her comanxious, inquiring

an

her head.
said ;

she
understand,'

'

to

say that of

me

seems

nonsense.'

you see ?' exclaimed

and layinghis thick forefinger
on
Don't

'

knee, don't you

When

see

It is

plainand

as

faintest shadow

The

dropped

her

delicate lids

from

gaze

drooped

as

the

his face

to

the

Masthlion

"

he will

will

assuredly

her

she

and
lips,
burning logs.
on

the lustre of her eyes, and

over

her

in heaven.'

sun

smile rested

arm,

the wife of Martialis

by and by your
sightof you, so

sure

of

become

you

he will take you to Rome, and

be unable to live without the
follow.

Cestus, reachingout his

her hand, as it rested on

The

warmer

tint suffused her skin.

'

It will be time when

tillthat
'

as

as

to

comes

Therefore

I go to

Rome,' she murmured

'

wait

pass.'

you

will not

help

to

persuade

him

to

go

now,

I recommend?'
'

I will

'

Think

you

the

"

dream

never

did

"How

say a word.'
of the blessed change

not

of.

When

I live in such

and shows, such

sights

you are
dog's hole

there
as

you

that?"

"

will say,

meaning

Surrentum.'
'

I think

have

passed too many pleasantdays here to

think that ever,'repliedNesera
but my
inclinations
own
;
have nothingto do with it,nor shall they.'
Then
continued Cestus,more
the Prefect
again,'
artfully,
has been a long time in Capreae,and cannot
be expected to
remain there much
longer. He will return to. Rome, and with
'

'

him

'

Martialis.'
This

was

subtle

stroke,but

laugh and a
rippling
towards
the
persistently

low

shake
fire.

he got no
reply,save
of her head, which was

Whereupon

he

only a
turned

shrugged

his

NE"RA

266

PART

fell between

them

for

ii.

considerable

shoulders, and

silence

he
space, which
with her hands

employed in fixedlywatching her as she

her knee, apparentlylost
clasped across

sat

in

reverie.

brightglow of the fire bathed

relief in the
into striking
them

her face and

The
threw

dark

now

and
figure,
The

room.

Suburan, with his elbow on his knee and his head dropped
sidewayson his hand, feasted his eyes with the lovelypicture
from the
she made, which drew no small portionof its charm
of her unconsciousness.

grace

It awoke

his mind

to

strange

which
conjured up
as
remained
sharp and distinct as
engrained in
these was
of yesterday. Amongst
a
brightand vivid
events
morning on the Janiculum Hill in Rome ; the gloriouscity
A beautiful
in the morning beams.
spreadbeneath glittering
child dancing and skippingin pure delight
; a hasty dash
obscure
lane.
under
a
high garden wall,and down a narrow
Then
again the depth of a dark, rainy,hot, summer
of the dim

activity.Out

past he
his mind

scenes

...

night,when he entered that self-same room, weary with

and
prolonged toil of search for his destination.
depositof his tinysleepingburden, and the astonished
.

of the

two

inmates

of the

had

favoured

Fortune

humanity.

with

warmed
felt

at

would
in

the

so

him

looked

halls of

delicate.

faces

it

the

was

for

some

reward

of

maiden, his

his

heart

brief moments,

he

exquisiteshe
everything.How
white-handed
patricianand set
palace.

Her

beauty

had

utterly

experienceto
and companionshipwith a being
dailycontact
charmed
and spirit
Her sprightliness
him, whilst

him.

lived in

the heedless

on

satisfaction; and

marble

The
.

room.

with all and

peace
clothed
look
as
a

conquered
have

he

As

travel

It

was

new

and

novel

It was
gentlenesssoftened and quelledhim.
no
ordinarydegree of pridewhich tingledin his breast at the
indebted to and more
dependent upon
fact,that she was more
Should she learn
him than any one, althoughshe knew it not.
heart of this rough, vice-sodden,
his lips? The
from
now
he contemplated the
beat like a girl's
as
crime-laden
man
How
action,and gazed on the exquisiteprofilebefore him.
those deep-fringedorbs would
glow and flash in wonder, and
His
with emotion !
of her lipstremble
the delicious curves

her

purityand

CHAP.

cool

and
departing,

fast

was

reason

his

breathless
soul of the fair girl

policyhad fled,and
grate and

thud

of

mation
consum-

minutes

three

or

the

to

on

more

to hold the heart and

temptation
at his disposal.All questionof

resisted the

have

not

as
increasing,

tremor

him

the fascination before his eyes hurried

desire. In two
of his sudden
he could

267

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

TALE

xiv.

preparingfor his task,when

being drawn, sounded on their

he

was

bolt

open door.
is father!' exclaimed

the
ears

through the
'That

expectation.
A
escaped
disappointment,
his
body.
lipsof Cestus, and he straightened
up
The creak of the potter's
workshop door was followed by
in

turninground
deep sigh,either

and

the

his step, and the next

them.
toward
for
a

denly
Nesera, rousingherself sud-

wonderful

state

of

change

of relief or

soot

at

excitement,not
the

of

him

in his aspect.

was

furnace

on

in his hand

to

the

he carried

and

room

vanced
ad-

astonishment,
in
He
was
clearly
speak of evident
in

this occasion
incrustation

the reddish

subdued

his person, and

looked

They

great mental

delight. The
overspread and

he entered

moment

of

vessel
globular

rather

clayon
of dull,

held it up before him as he entered,

their attention to it
to draw
as
manner,
word
from his lips. His
deep-seteyes

coarse-looking
glass. He
in such
at

an

eager
without

once,

with infinite vivacity,

as
they flung
firelight
their flashing
glancesfirstfrom one to the other,and then to
the cup in his hand, and back again. His eager hurried step
and the maiden
almost at a
brought him up to the Suburan
in one
run, and then he stopped short,with the vessel uplifted
of the other pointing
to it. A strange
hand, and the forefinger
escaped him,
laugh,or chuckle of supreme joy or exultation,
w
ith
its
he
the article,
and
moved
accompanying index
finger,first before the face of Neaera and then of Cestus.
from their seats and stared at the potter
They arose silently
with strange wonder, and something of alarm, at this unusual

sparkled in

the

proceedingon
serenity.It was

the

part of

man

of habitual

reserve

and

spectaclealmost as littleto be expected,

for a statue of the grave goddess and her owl to step down
as
from its plinthand cut a caper on
a
temple floor. They
saw

that

extreme

his

features

agitation
; and

and

his frame

were

to comprehend
failing

tremblingwith
its

cause

in

268

NEsERA

I-ART

glasscup of not the slightest

pretensionsto use
they remained, with anxious gaze, to await
development of such unwonted
symptoms.
'Look
Masthlion
last
his

'

have

"

it

found

I,

"

the

grimy hands,

with

the

ecstasy of

miser

fondlinghis

heaps.

treasure

Grave

doubts
his

of

state

it is found

"

some

ornament,
further

gasped
laugh. ' At
potter, with another
last!' he cried,rollingand smoothing the vessel in
!

at

"

it is done

"

or

n.

in the mind

arose

kinsman's

and
suspicion,

mind

another

of

of Cestus

to

as

the actual

and

giving him a glance of

contempt on the paltryobjectof his
;

he growled as follows
As far as
I can
delight,
see, potter,
is
it
a
thing that ought to be well lost beyond redemption,
and a thing of regret,if found again in any dusthole."
Masthlion vented another chucklinglaugh,and turned his
'

"

eyes on the face of

the
and touched

Neasra,who

glasswith

Timidity and

hand.

countenance.

and

doubt

She

rested her hand

the

slender

his gaze
said soothingly,
You seemed
Had

with

returned

lost it

you

fingersof

in her actions

were

'

it,father.

his

on

long?

shoulder,

her

and

other
her

on

affectionate

cern
con-

pleased to have found

Why do you prizeit?

Tell me!'
'

found
of my

It has

been

never

lost ;

nevertheless

but

now

it.

Ha, ha ! Child, do you think I have taken leave

wits ?
And, indeed,I think I have, for joy,'laughed

the girlto
Masthlion,straining
fervent kiss.
Neaera

breast

brand

the fire and

and, at

ceiling.By

and

givingher

!'

into the upper

the request of

glidedaway
;

from

his

'Go, bringyour mother

her mission

the

I have

lightedan

the time

the

regionsof the house on

Masthlion,Cestus took a
iron lamp which hung from
threw

feeble flame

its cheerless

The latter,
lightupon the scene, Neara returned with Tibia.
with probably a hint of her husband's
unusual
humour, came
forward in a peculiarroundabout
as
fashion,
though she were
describingthe segment of a circle with the potter as a centre.
Her

face,wreathed

in wonder

and

some

if her

fear,was

riveted

on

magnetised.
the opposite side of him, she
she arrived finally
When
on
stopped. Masthlion regarded her with an amused smile,and
almost audibly. Neaera, standingat one
Cestus grinned,
side,
his,throughout her

course,

as

head

were

glancedfrom

her odd
'

Husband

!' she

'

Tis

I sent

what

her

remained
Tibia ; but the dame
and indifferent to the amusement

?'

ejaculatedat last. What is the matter

to tell you,'he said,laughing. Look
'

'

seized her hand, and

the

same

he had

!'

held up the vessel before her eyes in

'
done to the others.
Here is the result

He

way

slightwrinklingof

caused.

had

manner

nearer

husband,

in her

absorbed

step

269

ROME

ANCIENT

other,with

the

to

one

brows, and drew

OF

TALE

xiv.

CHAP.

is success,
toil and patience. Here, at last,
years'
twenty-five
bitterness beyond my
after disappointmentsand
tongue to
the old times,wife ?
tell. Do
Ay, can
you
you remember
into
well
too
ground
ever
forgetthem ? They were
you
starvation and rags are not easily
forgotten. I was the cause ;
in your
and reproached me
and though you often blamed
me
of

"

heart,you
Tibia

murmured.5

never

her head

shook

gently.
Well, well,I deserved it,at least. I was a man
possessed
combination
idea and
with an
for
an
no
unlucky
money
mortals who
are
obligedto eat to live. I learnt my trade as
a
youth,and one day in my master's shop I chanced upon
a piece of refuse glassof peculiar
quality. I showed it to my
He
at it.
of no
was
a man
master, but he scarcelylooked
There was
that about this piece
ideas beyond his dailywork.
set me
of glass,however, which
thinking,and filled me with
idea of such strengthas to be called infatuation. It has
an
till this day, and now
of Sisyphus to me
been like a stone
I have conquered it. For twenty-five
to
years I have worked
discover the secret of that stray piece of glass,
less
more
or
but always constantly.
eagerly accordingto circumstances,
madly
My father,when he died, left me a little hoard of
Then
I left my master
and built a workshop of my
money.
'

"

"

"

own.

It

young,

eager,

to

scorn

to

was

the notion of
the

that time.

us

was

working out

at

my

then, too, I married my sweetheart ; and like a

hot-blooded,thoughtless
lad,would have laughed

"

Come,"

couple of

of

sary
twenty-five
years being necesproblem,had it been told to me
said to myself, my money
will keep
by that time,I shall have found out

space
of my
I

"

years, and
secret, and fortune will lie before
as

far off the end

three years I

was

me."

In

years I
Tibia ?
In

two

do you remember,
further still,
for we had struggled
on, in vain
as

ever

"

NE"RA

270

hope
was

that each

day

had

to

futile

as

and

Night
would

day

than

like

it was

"

"

failed

had
dusk

was

else

dance

to

around

lay

you

who
hand

your

began

to

brain.

Tibia,
helped more
you,

the

last

it.

It

it

wanting,and I
dream
horribly,or

sat

there

like

foot, whilst the walls

giddy whirl,and the roof

Yet

me.

mine,

on
silently

and

in

crept in beside

I worked

before

others

with
upon me
tillI die. Then

down
up and swoop
that will live in my memory
it was

me

to rear

And

found

and

my
hand

if bound

helplesslog, as
seemed

reached

had

fever

sick.

stupid and

down

how

furnace,and the experiment

all the

work

my

and

that
presence
the day when

your

miserablyas

as

I tested

as

mystery, and

fever dream.

it was

help

ii.

mony
patrimy
in the process.
Every experiment
I
had become
before it,and
numb

Then
came
your hands, wife.
had been
spent in fuel for the

coin

sat

one

the

solve

disgustand despair. Ah,

to

come

end

an

the

as

bitter

to

even

come

would

PART

and

sensation
frightful
in that dread
did

you

that

hour

nothing but

saved

You

me.

it,Tibia ? I cried like a girl. I was overwrought

like the steel blade which is strained
in mind
and body. I was
and then snaps, to springand
in a curve
beyond its strength,
That
nightwe begged our supper, and next
quiverno more.
a
dreaming youth no
morning I rose another being. I was
longer,and I set to work to make pots like my dull master, and
when
for indulgence,
allow my phantasyto find its opportunities
do this from change of
allowed.
I did not
time and means
burned
for rny ambition
as
stronglyas ever ; but
inclination,
to live was
a
necessity.The gods gave me patience,and I
leisure to
and
to
for means
toiled for livelihood,
give me
search.
The
resume
gods have blessed me in both : we
my
are
beyond fear of want, and I have, at last,discovered
for all
which
like a will-o'-the-wisp,
led me
the secret
on,
it is to bless us
Here
these years.
toil,and
me, for my
remember

"

"

you,
cruel

wife, for your

have

see

what
and

those

early years.
acknowledged it. But

much

too
to

in

with

my

own

wife

your
I dare

pinched
thoughtswere
not

long-suffering!I

patience and

ask.

mad
and

Many
I

visions

and

be

You

able

to

be

up

able

knows, wife,

Heaven

days !

then

eaten

"

starved.

I may

since

time

possessed

was

hopes

in those

Now

was

spoke,

never

to

repay

"

who

CHAP.

knows

If it was

is

least the secret

At

known

ever

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

TALE

xiv.

it may

found, whatever
before

the world

to

271

I know

lead to.
; but

not

ancient people,the
the scholars say, that the most
skilled in works beyond
in their days of power, were
Egyptians,

have

heard

comprehension of these days. Yet their knowledge is all

lost,like their temples and cities. What
buried,forgotten,
they knew and discovered will have to be sought for again.
the

this

Thus

enough, when
giants. Let

that be

who

breathes
which

the world

It is

one.

any

of mine

matter

or

enough
or

saw,

well

ages younger, in the days of the

to me
not ; it is of no
or
consequence
lives and
for me
to think,that no
one

heard,of

such

glasscup

as

this

if it were
you
say, now,
the wealthy
What
would

would

What

this vessel?

break

impossibleto

known

was

ever

I hold.

now

been

have

once

may

costlyglasstreasure, goblet,or heirloom

should
be of such compositionthat his careless slaves should
it?
that the delicate fabric,
be powerlessto harm
exquisitely
and designed,brilliantly
cut
picturedand tinted,instead of
being dashed to fragments on his floor by the clumsy fingers
of a slave,should be so durable as to survive the mishap, and
think,if
patrician

his

"

be lifted

with nothingworse
again,

artist could
so

of the humble

of

glass which

twenty years
trick of
certain

restore

than

of the

And

dent, which

priceless
gem

vessels of the kitchen.

set

brain

my

of toil and

chance,

had

That

fire,and

on

of the

artist,
stray fragment
me

gave

unceasing thought,by

been

with

had

me

Masthlion's

face

trembling hand
Then

room.

above
force

his
he

pulled
he

flushed with tumultuous

his wife

lifted the

head, and
could

was

threw

command.

strange

some

certain

all these years to find out, and there,at

is developed. Watch
and you shall
now
in existence ! '
pieceof glassis matched by none
taken

five-and-

propertiesin
accomplished what it has

fused

proportions.Chance

skilful

aside

to

glass bowl

it down
There

a
or

how

speech.

with
floor,

followed

but only
flyingof countless splinters,
two
lazily
hardlytried glassrolled over

see

this

His

give himself more

as
high as possible

the

on

its composition
last,

dull

no

all the

crash

thud, and

three times

and
the

with

side ; otherwise
it had
suffered no
damage. The
with pride and
round
potter drew himself up and looked
triumph in his eyes.
flattened

NEJERA

272

hands

her

clapped

Nesera

PART

kissed

and

him.

Her

ii.

face

reflected his supreme

joy and satisfaction. Tibia stood silently,
still grasped in her husband's, as it might be
with her hand
in

the

of

those

of.

She

bygone days
said nothing; but her

object on

the

floor

them

manner

eyes

husband's

her

to

trial he

of

had

passed

face, and

told

from

the

there

mained.
re-

silent woman,
and
spoke no word of
congratulation
; but the pride and devotion in her face were
into it,read it
eloquent enough. Masthlion,lookingdown
She

was

females

Both

regarded the wonderful

piece of glass
of curiosity
with no small amount
little else than
; but it was
mere
curiosity.As an extraordinarydiscovery it interested
of bearing rapture to the breast
but little; as the means
them
it was
of the discoverer
Their
precious beyond compare.
visited it, but straightway
left it to dwell on
eyes indeed
there.

radiance

recovered

the

which

beamed

on

the

face

of

its

maker.

attention of Cestus, on

The
in

up and
and twisted

it about

with

the

most

to

the dint.

in this he

But

his head

shake

absorbed

minute

he tried
Then, with his thick,powerful fingers,
out

was

reverse

pick

turned

hand,

With
great interest he stooped
way.
examine
the flattened glass vessel.
He

exactlythe

to

the other

and

to

scrutiny.

straighten

he began
so
unsuccessful,
through his pursed
disbelievingly

hum

was

lips.
'

'Tis

tool

or

not

of wood

Come,

two.

followed

They

'

laughed Masthlion
clay,'

rounded

him
at

one

I will show
his

to

end

you

it needs

workshop, where
like

mallet and

'

he took

pestle. With

"

piece

this and

pounded the injuredside of the glassback

originalshape the glassyieldingto the heavy blows
mallet he

into its

like

metal.
pieceof plastic
his tools and holding
cried,throwing down
forth the restored glass in triumph, it is neither pretty nor
is there,which is everything.
useful,I admit ; but the principle
first find the precious pebble before it can
be
One
must
and
carved
polished. So enough for the present. Haste,
be at work again to make
I must
wife,and get us our supper
a more
sightlycup, as quicklyas I can.'
'

There

!'

he

'

"

The

women

vanished.

Their

voices could

be

heard

in

CHAP.

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

TALE

xiv.

273

they passed hither and thither in the

time.
for some
of a meal they had known
preparation
gladdest
do you think
'Well, kinsman, you say nothing. What
in glass
? said Masthlion to the Suburan,who
of my bantling
animated

chatter

as

'

with folded

bench

leaningagainsta

stood

knitted

and

arms

brows.

repliedCestus.
somethingundoubtedly new, potter,'

"Tis
'

And

do

you say you

vases, such as one

and

unbreakable
'

clear

Rome, in the

in

sees

glass and

fancy cups

same

way

"

'

Certainlywhy
"

fashion

colour, or

make

can

whatever

make

can

'

Masthlion.

? ' answered

not

any

No

shape,

difference

to

its

of indestructibility.'
principle
Why then, potter,I may safelygive you joy of your new
fashion.
It has been a long time coming,but it has come
And
at last.
provided you can keep your secret, and deal
with it,I should say you ought to coin money.
Give
sensibly
me
you'llbe as rich as Caesar ! And
your hand, kinsman
recollect when
your secret has two in it,it is no secret at all.'
Trust me
for that ! laughedMasthlion,
as Cestus
gripped
'

"

'

'

his hand.
'

needs

take

you to
with
pieceof glass,

You

Rome.

the

in your

go bury them
wealth.'

make
'

as

well wrap

making on

garden,as

up

your

parchment
place

stop in this

is

nothingto prevent me going on making glass

heretofore,'
repliedMasthlion,with a shadow stealing

There

here

as

over

his face.
'

may
of its

secret

and
inside,
to

potter. This littleaffairmust

yet somethingmore,

And

Nothing !

lived for the

'

returned
hundred

next

'

if you
even
energetically,
But what an
ending to
years.

Cestus

years'work ! Cradled and buried in these

your twenty-five
hills for the benefit of housewives
and kitchen wenches
round
about
your
and

Surrentum
and

wares

to

is where
follows

patron

Rome
name
name

to

No

your name.
all the world
and
and

fame
fame.

father your

have

wider market

is the market

Rome

of the

looks for the latest fashion.

is

be

to

There

handicraft

kinsman, even
everything,
'

must

; you

"

in the matter
T

world,
There

everythingwhich
will find the powerful
a
powerful patron is
of glasscups.'

had, and
you
and

for

NE"RA

274

PART

n.

'

will
light,
much

be

the direct

to

little whether

matter

long,and

so

it goes

brought to

of the world.

accept it

and

Rome

to

last

at

service

and

use

will find it out

that the world

so

It will

Surrentum

to

or

So

to

it.'

obtain
'

toiled for

I have

What

Ha

know

ha !'

about

think

laughed

the

world

will

Cestus

and

its

much
sarcastically
;
'

people to

say that !
when
you

you

Do

you

they
finger? You have enough to bringyou fortune if you go the
rightway to get it. The wrong way is to stay here and dabble,
else worm
one
to better puror, perhaps,let some
your secret
pose.
is what

This
Make

or

cup

him

of

choose

will

buy

assured

at

best

to

do.

to

worthless

great man,

being

the

place

better.

is

At

chance

about

all

things.
knows
no
one
why,
together. You must

of

push business

the
"

humour

the

only way

"

here ?

Not

gold mine.

I !

I should

be off into

covery
dis-

your

!
If I knew
what
pooh, man
every day
you
had
handicraft
at
should
fingerends,
my
your

and

the

If the noble

anythingin

"

to

at

be
rate
any
his table.
To
effect

on

if there

your

him

talked about.

Rome.

can
you
and
show

about

people

times, fall flat

send people crazy

your best and take

time.
This is the way

to

out

at

do

Go

workmanship

But, however, there is luck

schemes,

lift your

finest

more

bring success,

all.

whilst the

done

the

much
so
vase,
your
that it shall have a

all this is

The

of

down

bound

you

curiosity.The

your
time, the better chance

kneel

are

you

vase,

Then

out.

turn

and

come

the

world

and

of
"

the
'tis

know,
I stop

tap

Then, if it suited my

fancy,in a few years come

back to the old nest and build myself a palace.'
with my plain,simplecountry ideas,Cestus, I think
Even
I have
something of good sense
beyond your own,' said
Masthlion
at the end of his companion'sspeech.
quietly,
Really,in what way, kinsman ?
'

'

'

'

In that I have

not

yet allowed

my

mind

to

measure

the

of my palace,or the worth of the gold mine that is to

build it,'
said the potter grimly.
'
Ah !' said Cestus, ' but observe,I spoke only assuming
extent

you
own

end.'

to

be

successful.

faith in your
hope, then, of course, there is an

If you

discoveryto give you

haven't

enough

CHAI-.

'

but

when

mind

to

know,

to

you

plan

ere

making

of

resembles
my

that

the

I have

Else would

time

it will be

then

advise

you

to

the

astonish

which

very
need
of
without

and

"

sense

alreadyresolved

discoveryknown,

my

plan

had

spoke, I

you

toiled

allow

Nevertheless, Cestus, it may

riot.

run

275

is plainto the dullest

Its worth

comes,

success

ROME

ANCIENT

great faith !

and
faith,

I have

?
long and wearily

so

OF

TALE

xiv.

on

much

leaving

home.'
The

his head.

shook

Suburan

'

Of course.'

'

Then,

since

patron shall be
world, in fact.

the

is

powerful

most

my

resolved

settled,I have

To-morrow, if I

fruit of

the

show

that

already the idea

I have

'Simple being as I am,

good patron is necessary.'

labour

of

all

the

"

can

be

for

the

that

that

my
of the

ruler

ready,I will
approval of

and

go

Caesar

himself.'
'What
'

"

Caesar

lion,with

"

Caesar!' cried Cestus, starting

violently.
Tiberius Claudius Nero Caesar,'repliedMasth-

quiet smile
his companion.
a

features of

'Biberius Caldius

Mero

mechanicallygivingthe
his

which

at

the

Caesar

Emperor

blank

"

amazement

phew

the

on

Cestus,

!' muttered

his well-known

nickname,

had
Imperialwine-bibbing
propensities

earned

for

him.
sank
back
murmuring, the Suburan
again into his
at the potter.
reclining
posture againstthe bench, glaring
that I have taken a bolder flight
than
Why, it would seem
So

'

the

even

citywit

and

cleverness

of my

kinsman

Roman

could

devise.'
'

There

is such

thingas takingtoo

bold

for
flight

his voice
welfare,'repliedthe other,recovering

'

and

one's

country

ignorancewill plainlydo many a thing which citywit would

it been
call folly. Had
the last Caesar
it been
had
now
Augustus,perhaps you would have been sensible. But this
To go to Capreae
!
the risk of being drowned,
one
to run
lair or, failing
or
ere
spitted,
that,
you set foot in the tiger's
be hauled
before the tigerhimself,
to
and
h
urled
straightway
"

"

"

from

the

preserve

cliffsinto the
us, Masthlion

"

sea

for

have

you

mad-brained
taken

potter !

leave of your

Gods

senses?'

276

NE"RA

PART

n.

'

I may
have seemed
like it some
minutes
back, but I
have returned into my usual sober spirit
At all events,
now.
I have the wit to see clearly
what I intend to do.'
'

You

allowed
shore !
'

would

never

approach within

to

would

you

"

eyeshot

not

Do

think

"

even

be

never

foot

to

set

of

Surrentum

on

'

Nonsense, kinsman

know

Caesar

see

better than

not

you
believe an

to

we

idle tale such

that?

as

not better acquaintedwith our

are
bours
neighyou think we
in Capreae, at our very doors here,than to be affrighted

Do

at such

ogre'sfable

an

island and
folk

along the
'

And

Caesar

see

tortured and

to

Is it

here,whenever

coast

who

I will both

yours ?
boot.

as

strangledand

often done

not

business

What

return.

never

flungto

of the
the

foot

set

on

the

by

the

demands

?'

dozens

who

sharks

by

the

are

thirsty
blood-

old hermit?'
'

Would

the

people

continue

ever

to

if that

go

the

were

case?'
'

'

Do

you say none

There
be
may

and

Caesar

are.

But

fair

have

am

for

reason

fear

no

some

is somewhat
I

'

I should

his head
on

'

the island.

imperiousas
and
Surrentine,

would

it be

like to

not

natives

We

I had

I would

Caesar's
of

Stercus

Capreae

and

known

say,'answered
a distance,
seem
more

"

vineyard up
Imperial

the

the

this
me

make

can

presence

enters

possiblefor

have

tyrants often

before,'
quoth

to

do

the

same

Masthlion,shaking
to

be

license.

out

of favour

Why,

I know

those who go without authority,

especially
business
will most
If you, a
or
likelyrue their boldness.
to make
a
Roman, were
visit,out of sheer curiosity,
you
with rough handling.'
meet
would, most
likely,
tine
Humph, then there is some
advantage in being a Surrenand not a Roman,' said Cestus ironically.
'So it would seem, in this instance,'
repliedthe potter.
Then
you may claim it with pleasure. It is hardlyworth
not

; but

!
'

to

strangers,from

and

uneasiness.

there, frequentlygoes

'

harsh

neighbour and a
permissionto go into

or

presence.'
By Hercules
Cestus eagerly;
thing?'

treated in the way I say ?'

so
unlucky if they have offended

are

strangers
"

"

'

'

CHAP

having when

And

than
wares

in the

enough

what

I have

meal

the Surrentines

heard

heaven

knows

what

sky is

tillthe

The

"

royalhumour
first chance
and
at it,
save

you

then

what

next

then?'

the risk.

run

never

native,a little
a
slip,a word,
might be upset even

things,as
Imperialhumour

the

before you had the

What
glasspot would
I would

of

ordinary way

might upset

by

277

of becoming
probability

the

even

matter

'

ROME

ANCIENT

givesme no better relish for

say of old Tiberius,
Therefore
I say, don't go !
I had before.
Take
Even
to a safer market.
safe
suppose
you were

themselves

your

OF

it includes

for the fishes.

him

TALE

xiv.

have

returned
favourable,'

the

of

means

Masthlion,with

lying
calm

smile.
'You

wilful

'A
at

resolved

are

then ?'

Quite.'

'

will have

man

his

way,'growled Cestus,pulling

his beard

enough

very ill at ease, and he knew

be well aware
of the useless-

nervously. He was
the potter's
nature, to

of

of any
arrived at.
ness

the

to

arguments
felt no

He

turn

his determination
in what

confidence

in Capreae
peculiarprivileges

when

he had
toward

once

heard
the

cerning
con-

natives

than half assured,in

more
district,
and, in fact,was
his own
mind, that his kinsman was running as great a risk,
What
as if he were
going empty-handed to a lion in its den.
if he never
back
if he was
heard of again?
It
came
never
would
be to lose the most
important witness in his case.
of

the

"

That
was

be

would
a

terrible misfortune.

load within him

for heaviness.

The

It seemed

'

You

to

seem

he
confess,'

of his
'

feel

Easy

more

day ; and

with

tolerably
easy,
at length.

looked

round, and

in your

noted

companion'scountenance

in my own
contented

him

clenched,

whilst Masthlion
lips,
for his expedition.
preparations

to be

I have

brows

increase Cestus's irritation to watch

snarled

Masthlion

the

heart

Perplexityworried

into a temper, and he stood

very soon
and teeth grinding
under
his bearded

proceeded calmly with

Suburan's

mind, I

own

the
with

his tranquillity.

must

ill-humoured
some

pression
ex-

surprise.

mind,' said he ; I am, trulyenough

and happy than I have done for many
good reason
too, I think.'
'

"

I
a

278

NE"RA

Be

'

it is not

sure

'Ruin"

said Cestus.

death!'

'Tush

talkingnonsense.

you are
what
I
rest ; I know
from carryingout what
"

if I

Then

some

and

your own,
there are
matters
are

dependent

am

about, and

one

else.

other

than

who

at

wife

your carcase
like with them ; but

you

your

ought

you,
you told your

Have

mind

your

life and

Your

do what

can

you

on

Set

nothing shall stop me

I have fixed upon.'
teach you common
prudence, perhaps

cannot

will listen to

you

omen,'

n.

what?'

'Of

'

evil

an

PART

to

and

own,

and

have

some

the

also

people

tion.
considera-

girlwhat

mean

you

to do?'
'

it

; but

No

only

means

the

telling,'
repliedMasthlion,

with the faintest hesitation.

'

to

run

not

am

any

trouble

not

behind

me

duty you

one

proper
A

not

face
potter's

"

how

his breast.

'

I had

me

more.'

no

leave

hand

one

also,
you forget,
there ?
You
say

forgetthat you
restoringher to

are

her

ripeand

resolved

to

expect her,and
settle it; but
but

us.

see

that

his frame

I ?' he

shivered.

murmured,

will take her from

You

as

his

me.'

tell you.
must

"

on

will wait

we

could

and

it will be necessary for you and

? You
Where, then, is the separation

Rome, and carry

is

matter

"

those

with

arm

Do

do you
in the task of

the

forget

to accompany

settle in

and

child

I will take her to Rome

Tibia

'

girlsingingwithin

the

to

fell on

shadow

fell on
'

of

score

station?'

No, I do

head

The

with the other.

the door
owe

told you, you

risk I run
does

done, Cestus,and trouble

love her like your own

of the chief witnesses

you

to

have

the

on

duty not

have

As

head.

it is your

approached him, and takinghis

pointedto

what

conscience

so

besides

nothingwin.

venture

my
;

Cestus

'

on

fancies into your

got silly

have

he

risk

Nothing

'

of that ; and
their account.'

sure

so

work

your

longer.

no

I have
go.

nigh
Within

hand.

at

these

written to her

Come, let

the
without,as yet,telling
all this suits you

us

days
grandfather

go in

way

two

to

supper

You

reason.

in every

The

"

not
can-

nothing

better.'
Masthlion

remained

silent for

few

moments,

with

his

xiv.

head

cast

Then

he

hands.

and

up

.Did

down

time

floor.

At

of which

burden

it may

for hers

be
been

never

but

is

thought
home

our

it is

us,

sight

the

knowing

of

it is

hard

'As

still

will
have

to

transplant

you

of

labour

my

though

did.'

way

that

on

times

tone

giving

what
rock

the

service

in

breath

life
"

his

benefit

everything

fall

'

Life

included,' sneered

'

Let

it, if it be

so

to

that
the

I had

be

may

lost

altogether

us

home

of

comfort.

from

Capreae
though

"

to

you

into

shall

be

'

"

Cestus, his

disgust.

to

is

and

anger

mine

do

my
and

You

who

man

shall

you

'You

in Rome

nobles

will

be

never

you

rich

The

kinsman

its fame

it

even

reach.

be

It must

Masthlion, stung

of

or

!' echoed

Capreae

madness.

"

late

of

another

She

new

suffer ;

thought

her,

rob

had

trees.'

old

from

also

I return

as

wife's,and

and

least,would
trial of

from

must

easy

not

soon

return

of Caesar

I will !' cried

fierce

the

in

hermit

thousand

a
'

me

persist

like

lives

at

more,

I have

city.

the

that,

The

occasion

way

within

could

As

one

without

to

up.

my

We

I have

they

task

need

no

"

and

good.

In

was

follow

to

her

dark

minutes

respite.

again.

us.

she

at

incipient satisfaction

be

that

once

brief

his

impatiently

pace

face

sake

back

very

to

tell,I wish

for

and,

as

can

you

least, make

soon

such

said.

then.

me

his

leave

That

on

with

several

potter stood

for my

be

still

; but

her.

will go,

it

be

of

true

'

that

must

would

will decide

This
we

she

resolved, therefore,

half

had

have

here

consolation

to

if

you

that

had

brought

what

fated

seems

back

all

nothing

over

was

nervously.

bench,

for

the

length

huskily,

for

have

to

that

he

said

Cestus,' he

'

his

on

began

Cestus

279

themselves

remained

he

which

heaviness

and

care

the

the

low

stooped

Here

motionless, during

ROME

fingers twining

apart, and

his

ANCIENT

OF

his

and

down
went

in

face

TALE

CHAP.

not

will
go

!'

despair by
duty

to

the

shall

cling

bright

than

to

away.'
Cestus.

fated.

It

seems

less

it

CHAPTER

THEN

\I
V

XV.

called in to supper
the two
women
they were
awaiting them, bright-eyedand radiant, at

were

modest, but
however, was

Their

well-filled table.
doomed

to

new-found

brief existence.

cheerfulness,
remained

Cestus

silent and

gloomy; and Masthlion,equallytaciturn,

despatched
his meal
it
task
be
to
well rid of.
a
were
rapidly,as though
Their
still more
the
were
dampened spirits
depressed,when
potter, immediatelyon swallowingthe last mouthful, announced,
visit to Capreae.
in a blunt,matter-of-fact
way, his intended
certain amount
With
of dismay they at once
a
expressed their
of
disapprobation
of dread

sense

of

name

away

the
of

doomed

their

of too

was

sarcasms

were

undertaking.

filled

dissuade

and
efforts

it

"

Caesar

efforts to

the

about

their

great

be vain.

with

Masthlion

something

bade

of his

them

natural

he

silently
hearts

'

Oh,

to

be

head, in the first place,I should

I have

His
himself

to

drive it

sister

backward

Had

hardly have

as

denly
sudtone

centrated
con-

put it into his

taken

the trouble

again.'

out

being

sure.

his

to

heavy as before they had been cheerful.

Tibia
'Have^w
put this into his head?' demanded
and her
of her brother.
Her
glance was suspicious
unusually sharp.
I put it into his head ?' repliedCestus, with
Have
'

put

manner,

back

went
gentlyon the shoulder as
went
Without
being reassured, the women
work of removing the supper
things,their

scorn.

The

his wife

clapped
workshop.

with

magnitude.
very
with awe.
them
They used their best
marks
repotter, assisted by the interjectory
but
Cestus ;
they plainlysaw that their

to

fears,and,

oppressed them

It

silenced

and

he

said

no

forward, in moody

more,

and

silence,on

sat

tilting

his stool.

TALE

xv.

CHAP.

bestowed

Neaera

him

on

one

or

loftyglances,which

two

in the

that her ideas flowed

showed
plainly

281

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

direction

same

as

however,and glidedhither and

nothing,
thither,in and out, in her occupation. Presentlyshe went
asked
to the door of the workshop, and, tappinggently,
quietly
for admission.
motion.

again,and
quick ear

said

She

the dame's.

caught the

Cestus
The

and

creaked

door

open, and
into the passage.

returned

Neasra

less
stopped his restby and by it closed

sounds

Suburan's

The

minglingoutside.
foot sped up
There was
a smothered
a light
sob,and presently
the stairs. Tibia then came
into the room
to give a parting
for the night. Her
touch to its arrangements before retiring
face was
more
dejectedthan ever.
She has been in to see him,'observed
Cestus.
heard

the voices of the two

females

'

Tibia

nodded

'And

did

The

of apron

stanch
'

this time
hand

one

which

the

good, I

no

dame

with

yes.

she

shook

her

on

wore

drops which

tell.'

can

remained

the other underneath

hip and

ing,
standa

kind

her gown, as if ready to liftit to

struggledinto her patient
eyes.
over

Very well,then,'continued

givethe

head, and

her

'

brother, we

her

as

may

well

will go his own

It's of
way.
him his madness.
That being the case, there
to show
no
use
is something you must
know
without any further delay,since
he

matter

up, for the

is determined

bringhim

throw

to

himself

Wait

away.

I will

and

in.'

'

He

is

'

He

will have

the

reply,and

was

man

busy, Cestus,'dissuaded
make

to

the Suburan

few

she.

leisure,
however,'
accordinglyto summon

moments'

went

the potter.
The
latter

obeyed without demur on learningthe reason

for his required presence.
Cestus shut the door and took his
former
positionon his stool.
since you will not listen to reason
ing
concernBrother-in-law,
this errand of yours to Capreae,and since I have small
hope of ever seeingyou return, Tibia must hear, in your presence,
what Ihave
life
is
told
alone.
Your
already
you
your
'

own,

do

and

if you

are

so, I suppose.

settle it with

or

determined
That

without

to

is your
your wife's

shorten
own

it at

once

matter, and

help.

But

you
you

in the matter

can

can

of

282

NE"RA

the child called

to

rob

; and

as

put it in

lion,smiling
;

'

arrange

you.'

pleasantway, kinsman,' returned

but

as

bent

are

you

puttingme

on

II.

about

are

you

my best witness in her case, I must

best I may, so as to be able to do without

as

'You

concerned

am

of

me

matters

Nesera,I

PART

Masthdeath

to

I won't

I agree with you that

Nevertheless
argue the point
it is time Tibia should know
what we know
about our
child
"

I stillcall her
I have

ours, you

silence

kept

long

as

It

see.

your wish that

Tell her the story I

only at

was

this.

as

"

cannot.'
Tibia

lookingfrom

sat

in her

lyingfolded

her hands

curiosity.What

trouble

new

launched
her

upon her?
husband's
face

that he

about

was

Was

throw

away

the

Cestus, her brother,was

time

he

left

with

wrong

He

Nesera?

it,since

the

of

which

it not
his

life

arrival.

her

there

"

had

enough

darkened
to

the

on

her
upon
had
seemed

his

brought

secret

cloud

matters

hour

had

was

long?

to

way,

her eyes full of anxious

this which was
about to be

lap,and

it the

Was
so

the other in her mute

to

one

be

What

did he

It

was

strangely

go
of

morrow

house.
to

told

the

want

to

child
take

her away again?

Her gaze fixed on the Suburan
as this thought broke
upon
her eyes
knitted slightly,
Her
brows
and
her slow brain.
into lifeless
and congeal,for a moment,
seemed
to contract

glassyballs.

as
meeting bitter trouble,
It
motionless,voiceless,
passivenumbness.
animals
and
action of some
reptileswhen

She

had

grip of

it were, with a
the
resembled
seized

in the

of

manner

ferocious

enemy.
into an

The

functions

of

impenetrableinner
and torpid. It is the
casket,leavingall else relaxed,lifeless,
effort to resist exquisitetorture, this power of selfsupreme

body

and

brain seemed

this
paralysation,

withdrawn

contraction

of all

sense

into the numbness

of

of mute
suffering
oblivion;whilst to the beholder the spectacle
is the most
heartrendingof all.
narrative he
Cestus, without further delay,began the same
Tibia sat like a carven
had already related to Masthlion.
image, with her hands clenched in her lap and her head half
when
Once
bowed.
only duringthe recital she started slightly,

she heard
and

she

the
gave

noble
a

parentage of the child she had

half-startled glance,firstat
swift,

tended,
Cestus, and

voice

given up

her

to

heard

she

ceased,and

the

283

ROME

ANCIENT

When

at her husband.

then

OF

TALE

xv.

CHAP.

end

and

came

the decree

that Nesera

people,her fingerstwitched

own

speaker's

the

to

was

be

nervouslyfor

time.

thee and
This, then, is what has haunted
house !' she cried out sharplyto her husband, as
'

her head.
apron over
The
anguish of her
A

silence

not

fell

the

on

glance
for

room

cut
a

darkened

the

she threw

her

the

potter to the heart.

Masthlion
could
minute.

his stool.
on
uneasily
swung
the latter cleared his throat and tried to smooth
matters,
a

summon

Then

word, and

Cestus

alreadyfamiliar to the reader.

Why, Tibia,you have tended the child tillshe has become
leave
your own, and it is hard, I admit, to hear she must
she was
bound
to
But consider,
go, for the Centurion

with arguments
'

like

you.
will marry her and take her away to Rome, at all events.
Why
The
abide without
trouble them ?
only way, if you cannot
lion
being near her,is to go after her. I have alreadytold Masth-

this,with
and

him

shown

all the

common

it is the

how

one

sense

best

place for

be

capableof,
employment in all

can

his work.'
will go to
we
alreadyagreed ; if Tibia is willing
said Masthlion.
the great city,'
!' repliedCestus sharply.
not
at once
'Ay but not now
back from Capreae. That
Only, as you say, when you come
is another
thing altogether. It is a promise on condition
I have

'

"

"

'

with

vengeance,

be alive

when

perform it.

to

there

is every chance
you will
Hark'ee, Tibia,I am
eager for us

for this reason,

have been a
the girl. There
to

go

in the

at once,

shop

herself.
this

for
lately,
saw

that

am

couple of

nothingin the world

them, heard them, watched

anxious

to

all

concerning

fellows from
but

not

see

them.

Capreae
the child

What

does

fine night your house

be
Why, that some
may
carried off to the island by a gang of
broken into,and the girl
Caesar's blackguards. Once there,you may cry for ever
to get
her back.
Is it not
time, think you, to be moving such a
mean

lass
good-looking

out

of the reach

of the

claws
tiger's

you leave her to the chance of such a fate,for the

fool's errand,on the score
of a glassbowl?'
'The

fool's errand

shall be

carried out, look

Will

sake of

you,'inter-

284

NEJZRA

posed

Masthlion

if

scent

you

taking

all
when

I
'

'

ship

or

that

And
is

It

is

there

farewell

the

is

nothing

if

need

ii.

Nevertheless,
to

prevent

be.

you

will

follow

Surrentum.'

to

?'
Tibia.'

to

rest

that.

of

more

determination

your

leave

no

to-morrow,

bid

to

so

close,

so

horse

ready

am

'

sternly,
danger

PART

"

'

Then

she

girl

the

and

and

will

myself

hence

go

without

delay.'
'

go

If

will

she

He

started
for

stood,

out

the

Masthlion

workshop.
after

him.

'

When

furiously.

Tibia.

that

he

Cestus

he

upset

his

passion.

with

his

stamped

foot

stool,

and

Failing

to

savagely

he

duce
pro-

and

room.

gave
Ere

sound,

cried

alone,'

said

thee,'

stuttering

moment,

of

take

violently

so

intelligible

an

rushed

shall

with

up

standing.

also.'
I

go

Tibia,

said

brother,'

goes

girl, then,

The

'

yourself,

husband

my
'

for

Speak

he

grim

could

sort

shut

of
the

smile

door,

Tibia

and

went

slipped

to

his

silently

CHAPTER

TO

return

to

Plautia,whom
the villa

to

cottage

litter was

Her

Zeno, the
courtesy

usual

at

her

by to hand
ignored, so he
loftily

for any one

of the
the duties of the day.

Greek

them

into

dawn.

his

on

it was,

Tucca's

palace,and
His proffered

out.

turned

be seen;

to

was

from

the stormy, gray

side door of the

hour

astir about

heel

and

doubtless,before

Imperialhousehold

be

to

peristyleclose at
threw open
the door of a handsomely appointed
the noise brought forward, from
within, three or

hand.

He

room,

and

four

young
looks.

good

Jovis,in

the way

on

steward, stood
was

The

left

we

down

set

led the way inside.

soul
Not a living
the

XVI.

brought

small

noticeable
slaves, particularly

female

for

their

'

My prison?'ejaculatedPlautia grimly.
The
Greek's face grew pitiable
with an injuredlook.
'

Caesar

these

has

slaves

in with

passed

ordered

will be

deep

in with

under

own

them, and his

upon
satisfied grin,as he hurried
order

Plautia

to

found

report

to

his

master.

formed

room

experienceof

and

arrangements

of these

to

draw

from

The
After

her

mind

the horror

and

quarters, the brief

one

husbandman's

of

moments

misery of
of

to

suite.

the

After

kennel, the space

could

apartments

indeed

was

the

portionof

in spiteof
sigh of satisfaction,

of her

state

and

haughty nod
gently closed
place
gave

different

away

to

that the

deprecatinglook

the unwonted
luxurious

gave
Zeno

attendant.

door

palace,in

apartments

your
Plautia

obeisance.
her

for your use ; and

orders,'said he, bowing her

these

her

not

fail

position.

unenviable.

the

night in

slumber, which

her

wretched

on
fell,finally,

286

NE"RA

her

exhausted

mind.

had

senses,

had

PART

sufficed to

not

relieve her

ii.

fevered

have

seemed, instead,to

only sunk her

faculties into the first leaden
of suspension, to have
state
lulled the wakefulness
of her tortured brain,and plunged it
into the horrors of a narcotic sleep,
amid whose heavy vapours,
her struggling
the distorted phantasms ot
reflections became
an
oppressivedream.
They

"

yet her mind

Even

had

load.
soporific

Stupor stillseemed to
clogher senses and maintain her in a condition "of waking sleep.
The scenes
of the past nightstillfloated through her brain and
mingled with what was
actuallyoccurring,as if on common
of the
The
ground of unsubstantiality.
pale, soft crescent
moon
hung phantom -like in her distempered mind, just as
to

off this

sufficient elasticity

recovered

not

throw
entirely

that

save

the Pretorian's shoulder ;

her gaze over
upon
its bulk swam
and its palenessshone
magnified,

struck

it had

now

intensified
on

her

as

if

to

forehead,and

two

or

one

in her
fire-impressed

brain

play of his

the

ghastliness.Then
"

breath

warm

of his gestures,which lived,

all the sharper,in relief to

of sudden
and
dark, blurred, frenzied moments
agony
despairwhich had followed,like a gulf of blackness. After
this her mental
awakening in the pitchy darkness and crash
of the sudden
storm, the misery of the night,the phantoms
of her short drowsiness,the coming of Caesar's messenger,
all like the
and sky, the palace it was
the cold gray of sea
of a shadow-play.
unbroken
course
She moved
through the rooms, and, in the furthest,found
the

"

the marble

basin

of

turned

animation,she

bath

with

all

appliances.With

bade

and
instantly,

more

flock of young
have been obliged

the

To
slaves prepare it for her immediate
use.
for a considerable
to forego,
period,this luxury so
to

had

Roman,

been

the

not

necessary
privationshe had
lightest

incurred in her headstrongexpedition.

crystalwater, foaming and floodingout

dolphin'smouth into the polishedbasin,was
The

sightas
it,one

of the slaves answered

brought
visit in

her not

to rouse

an

back

message,

little. Whilst
a

summons

that
saying,

of
so

the brazen
welcome

preparingto enjoy

at the outer

Caesar

would

door, and
pay

her

hour.

revived
Infinitely

and

Plautia
invigorated,

returned

from

CHAP.

the bath

of her ancient

humour,

who

her

served

of its customary
showed under her eyes,
to

the

on

287

recovered

also

and

sharp word

much

so

part of the

knee.

tremblinggirl
lady'sface had lost

The

richness of

colour,whilst dark rings

as evidences of the
night'spassionate
of her physicalrobustness
and wanton

one

health,it requiredan
material inroads

any

had

to visit with

bended

on

some

tumult; but

She

as

frown, a slightclumsiness

ROME

ANCIENT

drink.

and

eat

to

OF

TALE

xvt.

and

enormous

her outward

on

continuous

strain

to make

The

appearance.
in secret
on

slaves

the splendid
apportionedto her,who had dwelt
form and beauty of their new
mistress,
wonderingwhat princess
she might be, and whence
she had come,
marked
the
now
imperiousflash of her eyes with inward quaking.
Plautia dismissed them, and
awaited the coming of her
Imperialvisitor. The thoughtfulknittingof her brows and
lipswere beginningto relax under the drowsiness which crept
form
over
her,when the pale,blotched face,and tall,
stooping
of Tiberius glidedslowlyinto her presence.
He
stopped in the middle of the room, and his brilliant
which she seemed
eyes fixed themselves upon her with a scrutiny
feel in every part of her frame.
to
Not
a
sign,however,
in
glimmered their depths,or stirred the gravityof his countenance,
to

She
her

show

that her appearance

in any way moved
him.
from
the couch
and gave a slight
obeisance of

rose

head, which

he returned.

by sight; but now, on

something which struck
the
to
to

close
her

ruthlessness of
piercing
think uneasily,
that she
the advice

keen

she had

feminine

odour

He

was

familiar

enough

personal contact,

there

was

it was

uncomfortably. Whether

his gaze she knew not.

She began
had been wise if she had listened

scouted

than

more

perceptionsflashed

out

of the

once

upon
been

already.
him.

It

was

heedless
so
tigerof which she had
man.
yet, withal,an old, stooping,
emaciated,unsightly

thoughts,from

to her

Her
the

; and

Her

curious

fancy,momentarily left her own

and conjured up alongsideCaesar
the form of his
concerns,
handsome, ambitious,dashing Prefect. The comparison left
its mark
her mind.
on
her indignation
Returning to herself,
and her courage, she awaited to hear him speak.
'

some

Plautia,I bid

slow way.

'

Not

house,'he said,in his

my
until last nightdid I know
you had favoured
you

welcome

to

288

NEsERA

island

the

with

your

therefore,to give you

of

husbandman

upon

beautiful presence.
a

have

more

It

was

unkind

with the intention of

n.

hastened,

fitting
receptionthan

afford.

can

island home

my

PART

the hovel

thus

to

steal

leavingit again as

silently.'
'

I have

Plautia ;

'

no

claim

upon

hither

came

on

hospitality,
Caesar,'replied
of my own, and
a trifling
concern
The poor house in which I lodged
your

sought to disturb no one.

endured
for the short time of
was
freelychosen, and willingly
and indeed
to have seen
stay. To-day was
my
my departure,
will do so.
I am
grieved that you should have learnt of my
caused
account
so
you kindly trouble on
presence, and
my
If my intrusion into Capreae is wrong and impertinent,
I crave
disrespect
your graciouspardon and indulgence. Indeed, no
intended.'

was

Dismiss

'

all that from

fact which

givesme

depriveus

of the

was

your

mind,' said Tiberius

pain is,that
delightof your

'

the

only
sought to

you should have

fair presence ; I repeat, it

unkind.'
It is not

'

much

"

'

for

to

me

less upon

thrust

myself upon

stranger's
tality
hospi-

Caesar's.'

despisedis the grievance,Plautia.'

Hospitality

The

old

was
highly-bred, perfectly
Emperor's manner
graceful,and polished,and a smile gently parted his lips.
Nevertheless, in spite of the delicate,deprecatingspeech
which
fell so
softly,slowly,but fluentlyfrom his honied
but the tinkling
of artifice. Had
tongue, every word seemed
she would
have said that
she dared
she felt,
to
retort
as
enforced
as
was
grievous a burden as hospitality
hospitality

despised.
of her mind, she recogfirmlyin possession
nised
her jailer
before her, and felt the grim hardness of the
captor'shand toying with her through the soft sheathingof
it was
and politeness.Nevertheless
not her nature
ceremony
to feel fear,and she never
quailed.
the Emperor; 'youth and
is all past/ continued
'That
In their preloveliness are
rightand might in themselves.
sence
it is possiblefor no
ruffle of the mind to remain unWith

smoothed.
all is

this idea

Now

well,and

that you
'

have

honoured
graciously

my

house,

CHAP.

TALE

xvi.

289

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

I was
brought hither,favour
'Pardon, Caesar!
Plautia majestically.
favour,'interrupted

or

no

me,' continued he,

you have honoured
is at rest.
Be pleased
unruffled smile,' my spirit
with the same
if it were
to use
your own.
my house and all it contains,as
'But

will shall be law within the limits of

Your

is,it contains

this island
to

since

now

show, and which

may
'

be you
Once

have
as

which we shall be eager

beauties,
been
deemed
worthy of notice. It
before.'

visited them

with
child,I think,'repliedPlautia,

as

some

have

never

Small

Capreae.

rigid

profferedkindness is beyond words of mine

I regret that my
to acknowledge,but
engagements will not
without
home
allow to take advantage of it. I must
return
further delay it is imperative.'
Tiberius shook his head and forefinger
at her playfully.

aspect.

'

Your

"

'

I could

not

allow you

Besides

haste.

which, the

'

'

I will risk the

sea

and

be to transport you
for one
I consent
moment

would

'

No

furious wind

storm

the wind

roars

and

to

the

oppositeshore.

to the hazard

"

grow
quitit in

sea

renders

not

'

I fear them

"

to

business it

and

Nor

though a

would
feeble

obeyed somewhat.'

am

to that.
any hazard for me, if it come
fisherman the cost of his boat twice over, and

shall

one

I will pay any

go

island would

but it is otherwise with those whose

Possibly;

old man,

the

which

determination

suffer the fair Plautia

to

it impossible.Hark, how

The

dyingday.

you would regret to your

I
black with scowls were
such

to carry out

run

myself.'
Tiberius suffered

his face
mettle

as

the

of
expression

an

deep

flushed

colour

admiration
in her

gleam on
cheeks,and the
to

sparkledin

Permit

her eyes.
fair Plautia ! ' said

he, steppingforward and

her hand to his lips
raising
; what have I lost in not knowing
What
to agingeyes as the spectacle
so
delightful
you before ?
?
of youth and beauty and high spirit
to me
Doubly grateful
the assurance, that the spirit
of my people will hardily
live and
'

me,

'

flourish.

'Tis such

have nourished
the
you who
of the world, and with such as you left behind me, I
masters
die in the comfortingknowledge that dominion
will not
may
leave them.

But

to

women

cross

as

those miles of stormy water

u

alone !

JVEJERA

290

Ah, it is wonderful
be

your murderer.
of heroes ! '
'

is

It

imperativethat

"

fierce rage eatingher heart.

'
to
marvel
It remains
a
without

the

being duly

fact

deaf ; ' it was

to be able to cheat
spirit,
stone

were

it be

Can

'

ere

the

with your

quitein accordance
which we
on
vigilance

would

so, I would

it been

Had

to land here
you came
if he
said Tiberius,
as
reported,'

how

us

feat

alightedin

you

do ?

our

midst

same

manner

'

'

of locomotion

means

to us.
your presence
to these
airyimmortals

blood

air.

am

'

of us, and so preserves

flesh
and
I, myself,preferwarm
whom

rest

we

know,

never

save

in

the satisfactionthat you cannot

depart through the
which
be
must
the richer in your acquaintance,

extended.
your

like the

on

for the present,

poets. I leave you, therefore,

the fables of the

lady,with

as

'

retired in the

have

selves.
prideour-

with scarcely
veiled scorn.
she replied,
this,'
The
Emperor laughed silently.
Thank
heaven,'he said, which leaves you dependent

mortal

me,' said Plautia,with

detain

to

possiblethat

goddess herself

the soft

immediately,and

home

return

seek

will not

that you

entreat

ii.

But it cannot
!
it conquers
me
esteem
I to allow it I would
Were
self
mymother
be
the
and
No, no, you must live,

courage

it is madness

"

PART

that I have

Now

the

assurance

of my

own

eyes of

comfort, I will intrude no longerat present.'

she cried,
For that receive my thanks,Caesar,'
advancing,

it impossiblefor
make
he retired ; ' but circumstances
I must
remain
at all hazards
quitthe island.'
as

me

to

"

'

To-day

it is

the door

nearer

changed.

Till

returned
quite impossible,'
'

to-morrow,

am

Tiberius,gliding

satisfied,
your mind

fair Plautia !
then, farewell,

will be

'

lipshe contrived to retreat,and

summarilyclose the conference by shuttingthe door upon it,
of unseemly haste.
as to leave no
impression
yet so dexterously
slave seized her
after him, but her devoted
Plautia sprang
skirts and besought her to be prudent.
Fool ! cried her mistress in a fury,flashingout at the
retainer started
Her
time a superb oath and a blow.
same
into the peristyle.
Plautia rushed
and
out
in affright,
back
of a livingbeing were
distinguishable.
Not a sightor a sound
As

'

last word

the

'

left his

CHAP.

TALE

xvi.

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

291

along what seemed to be the Emperor's most likely

But
line of retreat,and boldlycalled upon him in loud tones.
voice : the
the short echo of her own
save
nothing answered
wilderin
deserted.
Passage ran out of passage in beplace seemed
intricacy.Again she stopped and called,and again
She

flew

the

echoes

with her

stopped by

was

course

vain for
door

handle

the

Was

Suddenly her
lightshe soughtin

corridor.

In the dim

latch,or anythingwhich

might

cause

the

hard

surface

met

her

or

She

the

out,

fullyroused,

was

but

smooth

them
exploring
but

Forming
order

time

The

be

to

With

doublingon

her

her movements

nothing to guide her

track

mind

and

made

temper, and

standingby the open

agoniesof doubt and
Tis
nothingbut
'

her

had
she

apartments.
was

become
hastened

matter

merely
along,

considered
her

into

ran
finally

relieved in
very much
She found she had
of breath.
rooms,

her
Nearly opposite,
she

had

slave

was

left in the

been

fear.
a

maze

know

fool.

see

somewhere.'

own

door,where

had

Come, let us

habited.
unin-

were

she
again when
her flyingsteps led
the rightpath,and

maze.

people dwell,I
disappearedto. I
we

justas

of empty passages and

mistress,burstingon her savagely.

the

which

her
scant

circuit of the

exclaimed

alike

and

now

of
peristyle

nothing.

were

her way back

to her own
in this,however,
consumed

to

into the

All

room.

energy.
of
sense

her

more

On

this
she relinquished
resolution,

be wrong, or when
cul-de-sac. At last she struck
out

after

to make

random.

herself

availed

left them.

"another

dependent on chance,since
at

back.

passionthan

and
furnished,

of the apartments were

workmen's
hands
had

task,in

with

more

keyhole.

with wonderful

however,
explorations,

Her

danger.
Some

in and

darted

stood

palacereally

not
even
touch, wherever it strayed: there was
turned
Wasting no time, therefore,she instantly
of room
either hand she had passed the entrances

She

she

silence,as

pressedon again,keeping

main

door.

yield. Nothing

to

dead

She

If so, what part ?

the
she assumed
was
?

what

to

into

her

strained to their utmost.

senses

inhabited

around

sank

entered,and

not

nor

"

caught
if we
so

him

cannot

let

us

where

the

old

rooms,'
'Where

dotard

has

if you had
held me,
not
find the outer door through

begone \ it was

nigh at

hand

NE"RA

292

Plautia had
had

been

more

VAUT

ii.

recollection of the way, but her companion

attentive.
almost
straightto the
They went

no

which

they required. To their joy it

Before them
opened to their touch,and they passed outside.
a long stretch of ornamental
was
shape,but
garden of irregular
laid out with
It was
picturesquely
rectangularin the main.
door

outer

narrow

blance
semgroves, in the miniature
encircled by
and the whole
was
sylvanwilderness,

artificial
mounds, grottoes,and
of
a

wall.

In

being was
The

this outside

as

within

living

-doors, no

visible.
still roared

storm

irregularparapet
gray watery
sheltered as
and

domain,
and

of the wall

the

was

of clouds

masses

groves bent low

It had, of course,

to

horizon,and

drove

the trees

they were,

The

blustered.

and

shrubs

above

the

across

winding

of the

it the

sky. Even,
tinythickets

the blast.

been

previously
necessary

to pass

through

portionof this garden to enable them to reach the door of

the palace. They proceeded at once
to search for the entrance,
it amid
the winding depths of a grove and ornaand found
mental
rockery-work.It profitedthem nothing,however, for
a

the

door

embedded.

They

fast and
hurried

firm

as

hope

any

of surmountal.

To

of arrangement
ingenuity

utmost
met

with considerable

the

wall

looking for

on,

for it was

spot in the ringof masonry,

weak

had

as

was

hide

it from

in which
an

too

view

it

was

opening,or
loftyto
had

; but the efforts of the

afford

taxed

the

gardeners

success.

threaded
a succession of
swiftly
miniature alleys,
glades,groves, and rocky glens,to the furthest
end of the garden,and were
skirtingalong the oppositeside,
their return
on
journey,their eyes were suddenlygladdened by
tinue
observingthe forbiddingwall slope abruptlydown, and conlower level.
at a considerably
Moreover, here and there
the earth was
heaped up in grassy mounds, within three or four
of these Plautia sprang with a cry of
feet of the top. Up one
joy. Reaching the summit, she stood aghast,for,as she peered
between
her and the gray
the parapet, nothing stood
over
foam-streaked
than a thousand
feet below.
Leaning
water, more
the smooth
down
wall,cunninglyfaced with
over, she looked
the verge of the sheer cliffs,
rightdown into the waters, roaring
and dashinginto spouts of foam againstthe rocks far away at
When

the

two

females

had

TALE

CHAP.

xvi.

the

bottom.

but

Nothing

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

sea-bird

293

could

set

ever

foot

there.

One

dismay.
offered,
at

was

of

leap

wall

and

back
stone

the

on

into

down

plumb

feet,

arrived

smooth-dressed

of

of

cry

opportunity

they

thus

gave

where

unscaleable,

thousand

and

and

high

hand,

one

was

slave

more,

result,

same

the

and

observations

There

palace.

back,

drew

two

or

the

gave

the

on

and

shivered

She

the

other

foaming

sea.

The
fierce

scowling
The
'

animal

she

brows

and

slave
!'

Come
of

ourselves
in

She

glance.

trapped

again

the

and

looked

damsel

Roman

we

stood

for

labouring
and

observed,
Plautia,

villa,

for

moments,

the
fool's

if

as

with

other

like

and
at

with

bay,

breast.

discreetly

stood

wheeling

suddenly
can

play

must

wait

'we

the

doubt,

beyond

few

to

one

entrapped,

was

said

from

d9
fox
face.'

nothing
and

not

out

the

back.
the

toward
but

here
lion

let

trance
en-

starve

us

get

CHAPTER

"D AFFLED
*-*

and

chafing,Plautia stretched herself on the

again,and, this time,fell into a profound slumber,
slave nodded
and
dozed, in company,
a
upon

couch

whilst

her

cushion

her feet.

at

No

did

sooner

of her

one

the

attendants
steward

Emperor's
The

former

glided

handsome

Greek

prandium
'

not

His

saying that

room,

was

own

deliver

to

in,and

the
sage.
mes-

brought
opened the missive,and found
her company
hand, desiring

luncheon, by whichever

highness honours

Does

the

he handed

the

term

Roman

be called.

may

well,and
'

into

Plautia

scrawl in Caesar's

breakfast, or

at

than
awake, greatlyrefreshed,

awaitingadmittance

was

her the tablets he bore.

it to be

XVII.

me,'

said

me

to

frigidly
;

'

but

am

be excused.'

must

ladyshipwish

your

she

take

that

to

message

Zeno, with subdued

regret in his tone.
into her dressing-room,
She nodded, and swept majestically
said

Caesar?'

the mirror gave her the

bloom
in her cheeks.

where

day

her

own

least

She

had

with sickness in her memory.

free will at the table of her

so

her

With

indignantthoughts ran

than
closet she

mental

recovered

to indulge itself in

and

satisfaction of

it had
came

Capreae

minute

Yet

to

been

prostrated

accept

was
jailer

that
and

feminine

"

at

began
curiosity

inspectionof
inclination

for.

its surroundings
In

small

Caesar
array of female vestments.
generalforgottenfor a period,amid the
an

costlyfabrics. Presentlycame
was
Charicles,the Emperor's physician,
would

place of

monstrous

rustle of beautiful and

message,

covered
re-

at that moment.

tone, her

hitherto found
upon
in

were

more

never

beholding a

see

her

at

her

convenience.

another
in

tendance,
at-

Plautia

OF

TALE

xvii.

CHAP.

ROME

ANCIENT

295

to be
directed inquiry
gave a grim kind of smile,and
The
and why.
was
answer
who had sent the physician,
of Caesar
it was
himself,who was much
by command
to

would

recovered,he
sufficiently

to

expect

cerned
con-

the

her at

see

that

if

said,that

also

indisposition.He

of her

learn

made

perial
Im-

supper-table.
'

Say

to

Caesar I

said Plautia ;
will amend

and

in the

Contained
to

thoughtfulattention,'
aid,
requirea physician's

his

gratefulfor

am

but my illness will not

itself by and by.'

'

rooms

small

of books, and
library
when
attention,
everything

was

these Plautia at last turned

her

and

yieldedits full amusement.

imaginativepowers which are

had

no

She

else had

resources,
dreamer
or
solitary

world

no

Her
entertaining.

the

most

her

habits

active.

The

had
and bustle,
variety

enslaved

within

student,who

by

serious

She

books.

of the

She

like the

draw

company
and
practical

was

with
great city,

its

provideoccupationto

her time ; but here,cooped in the corner

of
and
island,the situation was wholly different,
as

the fanciful

upon,
his
finds
own
usually

failed to

never

to

temperament

resources

lacked

fill

house, on an
alreadyloomed

matter.

read for

some

time,and

then

was

wearied.

Her

own

thoughtshad remained
themselves
book
to

passivetoo long,and began to reassert

of her author.
to the subjection
The
actively

very

finallytossed aside,and its reader

and aimlessly
pacingceaselessly
through the

betook

was

behind

hands

her back

full rein

gave

her

with her

rooms,

and

her eyes bent on the floor. She

thoughts,and they sought the deep-

their former

fierce torrent, as naturallyas the

seeks
the pole.
Her
brows
quiveringneedle-point
grew
she
dark and heavy once
shut
herself
more.
Suddenly
up
rut

worn

of

to

herself

alone.

There
she

was

forth.

came

brighter
gleam
The

in
and outside,
radiant,
The

had

small
the

in the air

when,

windows, high up,

there
peristyle,

broken.

seemed
even

time,
more

light.
hazy sun-

to stifle
place seemed
her.
Catching up a cloak she sought the garden. The
heavy gale had dropped into a steady,brisk breeze,fresh,
bracing,and salt. The low, hurryingpallof gray vapours had
storm

The

was

after

NE^ERA

296
melted

and, far overhead, the clouds

away,

They

shreddingand

were

and

PART

luminous.

were

into

breakingfast

ii.

masses.
feathery

there

alreadypeeped the deep blue of the heavens.

still tumbled
its foamy billows far below,but,from
The
sea
the great elevation of the villa garden, the agitationwas
like a
It seemed
scarcelynoticeable.
huge plain thickly
which
flecked with snow, across
the surface of
moved
ing
gleamhalos of radiance shooting down
from the sunny
rifts
Here

overhead.
on
Plautia,
reachingthe
the high wall,turned
to

in

bring the

them
with

embarrassment, but

have

over
authority

the brow

as

away
that
the
reply
and

Emperor,

find

an

answer,

blacken

Plautia bade

matter.

steward

her

sharp on

in attendance

absent

was

be

nothing could

that

Plautia turned

to

her do so, and

accordingly.Presentlyshe returned with

hurried

the

constrained

She
over.
lady began speedily
obliged to go to the steward,having no

in the

herself
authority
she

to

be

said she would

fixed

as

the

the rest,was

of the

described
previously

palace attendants and bade

it. They were
struck
visibly
open
tall handsome
who
seemed
to
girl,

to

means

door

until his

done

heel,without

on

the

return.

word, and continued

her walk.
In half
a

perusal of

she
letters,

her

never

wandering here
of her

influence

she

hour

an

againwithin

her room, attempting

her eyes rested on
the

was

book.

But, though
read twenty lines. Very soon
she was
again
and there,aimlessly
and wearily,
under
the
she found herself
disturbed thoughts. Presently

standingbefore

the mirror

her reflected face with

of her

unconscious

an

or
waking
Becoming attentive,

up,

as

either the fresh breeze out-of-doors,

or

mind,

both

or

warmth

combined,

of colour

which

had

was

more

the

dressing-room,
gazingat
and

it were,
than

Its brilliance was, perhaps,even

and
magnificent,
customary ; yet it was
that better than
her

across

proud
nodded
with

ample bosom,
A

restored

of her
the

rich

of her vivid type of

trifle more
than
a
no

one

understood

herself up, folded her arms

smiled sidelongat herself with

She drew

herself.

satisfaction.

she noticed that

else the ferment

crown

beauty.

preoccupied stare.

and

approvingly to
careless,reckless

idea

possessedher,and she
herself.
black orbs sparkled
Her
light. One passion had ruled her,

new

had

CHAP.

xvn.

but

that

all

was

anguishwhich
his

on

which

She

over.

had

yet increased

297

the

to

she would

despair,and

Caesar

meet

beyond her
poisoned her thoughts,

the unaccustomed

by

of the

dregs

harassed

and

which
disappointment

the

was

drunk

Wearied

ground.

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

stimulates

own

patienceby
and

TALE

restriction

she rushed
from the idea of
position,
watching. With the recklessness of a
remaining passively
gamester who has lost all,she would go boldlyforth. To act
and

of her

monotony

her wit and

with such potent weapons
as
aggressive,
than
likelyto achieve her liberty,
beauty, would be more
It might,
of a cage.
at bay in the corner
standingdefiantly
than
mere
bring her more
liberty. She knew
moreover,
in store for her ; and, in truth,
what
fate might have
not
the

on

little. At

cared

she

relief of

some

better

die in

in

to

dash

calculate

novelty and

of

amount

the
upon
excitement.
It is

might

least she

for

than
liberty,

lie and

to

rot

away

dungeon.

It

resolved.

then

was

and

smiles and

at

appear

She

Caesar's

her

domestics

hour

herself

the

when
it was

conveyed

the next

was

position,
indis-

her

with

called

feminine masked

in force.

caused
She, therefore,

through them

from

recover

wreathed
supper-table,

graciousness.It might be

reconnaissance
the

would

and

most

intention
for

to become

known

and

approached ;

supper

to the

Imperialears.
importantbusiness.

circumstances

to

To
Her

arm
own

most
visit,was
humble
and
supply already
scanty ; but, in the plentiful
alluded to, she had neither difficulty
nor
scruplein selecting
The
attire to her satisfaction.
an
protractedand minute
forth brilliant,
of the toilet completed, she stood
process
admiration
of the
women
peerless,and resistless. The

wardrobe,

broke

under

forth
and

Zeno

in
his

the

murmurs

as

people, who

she
had

of

her

swept
come

on

to

in the
marshal

wake
her

of
to

table.

back
to her room
supper, at a late hour, she went
triumphant. Exultation shone in her eyes, and, for a time at
From

least,lulled the sticking

pain in her heart.

Copious floods
gaze

was

riveted

on

of wine
the

flashed

matchless

cup, whilst his

beautyof his guest. The
in Caesar's

298

NE"RA

n.

i-AiiT

whom
the Emperor had purcool-headed,temperate Prefect,
posely
into
with
his
brought
unexpected contact
guest, looked
in
and
his sleeve.
on
On
stowed
laughed
at times,he bePlautia,
ironical smile,the spirit
an
of which she denned, and
resented inwardly. Atticus,Flaccus, and
voted
Marinus, three defriends
of the Emperor, drank
their wine,
personal
listened to her lively
gazed their fill at the superb woman,
wit,and gave back what they could of their own, in an excited
ecstasy and jauntinessof foolish middle-age. The
night
waxed, and the faces of the waiting slaves grew weary.
But
the wine stillsplashedinto the gold gobletof Caesar,and his
moved
from
the girlbefore him.
These
eyes scarce
only
betrayed him to the watchful ; for his slow, cautious tongue,
time flew on.
scarcelylooser with wine, said little. The
until Plautia rose to go.
Draught followed draught stillfaster,
The
pallidface of Tiberius had become
graduallysuffused
with a faint tint of the warm
floods which were
pouringthrough
his veins. His kindlingeyes had begun to sparkleand blaze

like

basilisk's.

swiit-witted
damsel

The

seized the moment,

and, with the briefest delay,left the table and the

The

rich

in the

flame

like the

embers
chilling

stare, and
after

ring was

its fuel,and

The

gone.

quicklysank

His

of fire.

but

all in

complete silence.

parting cup,
made
no
sign in

host,who

the

vacant
a
gaze became
of
swiftlyrelapsedinto the glassystupidity

then

intoxication
men,

jewel which had set

Emperor's eyes lacked

room.

took

The

their leave

remaining six

of their

Imperial

response.
of the guests walked away from the palace,under the
brightstars,with a hot brow, and tumult in his breast. The
One

Prefect,his companion, suddenly startled the quietnight air

with

a
'

she

laugh.

Is she

not

world

loud

play a pretty game

this of ours?

centurion

has

O, poor Caesar
you
my

you

"

it was

not, Afer ?
friend?'

An

had
!

Was

knelt
she

false fire.
But

she

Is she

was

besotted
thou

thee ?

to
ever

so

Is it
on

have

Did

superb?

not

! ha ! ha !

Ha

emperor
Wouldst

spurned !

adrift who

hark

Titus ?

clever,my

not

not

what

droll

poor

dess
god-

turned

O, mighty Centurion

?
as
to-night
glorious

caught

the

spurioustone

incomparable
"

do you

not

"

But
did

hear,

CHAP.

Afer

'She

friend

his

Vale

the

cramping
The

off

sleep

bed.

villa

have

He

first

found

Jovis,

him
and

299

muttered

and

ligibly
unintel-

something

lips.
You

say?

you
drunk

only

fit

with

burned
of

faint,

his

then,

and

short
'

fever

It

enough.

not

is

Here

Afer

went

which

on,

could

is

lucky

my

but

my

way
not

not

endure

the

eastern

to

lodging.

luminous

watching,

be

to

sombre

your

or

dull,

insufferably

are

much,

too

is

walls

ROME

ANCIENT

teeth,

companionship

his

sky

do

was,

You

OF

his

ground
between

our

TALE

xvn.

gleam
motionless,
not

until

of

under

then,

in

dawn
the
he

went

walls

away

of

the

ward.
home-

CHAPTER

XVIII.

days subsequently, Plautia stood with her arms

restingon the parapet of the garden wall which edged

SOME

the cliffs.
Her

mood

was

of

one

and
profound abstraction,
be

of her eyes seemed

to
which
beauties of the scene

gaze

unconscious

of

the

the

fixed

endless

of that giddy
lay within the scan
sunlight,mingling with the
height. The rays of the autumn
opal-colouredlight,the deepening shades of the whispering
sea, the changing tints of the mountains, and the white gleam
of the cities fringingthe sweep
of the distant shores,were
far
from

her mind.

sound

No

mysteriousmurmur
absorptionof mind, until
the

save

utter

aroused

her

with

to the

arose

of

secluded

nature,

spot

favourable

so

the grate of a human

she
Turning round

start.

on

high,
to

an

foot behind
beheld

Afer

yards,gazingat her intently.

of Plautia
become
the banquet the manner
had
Since
that of one
quite reconciled to her situation.
Nay, it rather
satisfaction and pleasure judgingby outward
festation.
manibetokened
She had
also,
seemingly earned complete freedom
and went
wherever
and whenever
she pleased,
since she came
of restraint.
without being subjected to any gallingsymptom
standing within

Her
to

apartments

few

visit her, though these

To
with

Tiberius
her

were

whosoever

to

access

necessarilyfew

in

chose
number.

contrasted
her later freedom
jestingly
day's experience. He lightlyreturned, that he

himself

first

of

free

were

prided himself

upon

she

the

of
the unreality
perceiving
since time had
that now,
call herself the Queen of

might fancy,save

attempt

better

judgment

her momentary
proved him to

Capreae,
to

and

quitthe

he

had

shown,

in

dissatisfaction ; and
be right,she might
do

island.

aught
This

her

mind

he added

with
smilingly,
it was

whether
not

the

as

yet thought proper

In

accordance

at her

cheeks

His

of
disposition
the

to

first

had

of her

garden.
and

hollower

seemed

affairs Afer

apartments, and, by direction

her

attendants,had followed

of

to prove.

with this

presented himself

301

his forefinger;but,
Plautia had
veiled in jest,
injunction
shake

customary

earnest

an

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

TALE

xvin.

CHAP.

drawn,

more

his

and

glance was haggard and restless. For the rest, his attire and
unchanged in their faultless taste and neatness.
bearingwere
Plautia did not
quit her position,but simply turned her

againstthe wall,with

back

top of

was

thus

the

thrust

behind

her

on

lifelessdrawl
of

sense

The

stones.

and

languidgaze,

indifference. The

careless

suggestiveof
of the

elbows

grace of her splendid form

admirably displayed,but the posture was strongly

the

the

her

more
even
were
salutation,
drew
politeness
; but he, nevertheless,

of her

devoid
nearer

to her.
'

They

told

me

said.

you,'he

'

No

here, so I made bold to follow

you were
the eveninghas tempted you forth
wonder

with its loveliness.'

She

gave

another

way,

His
moment
'

faint yawn,

in

gloomy

and

her

glance languidly

and

heedless.

hand

clenched

turned

rude
distinctly

manner

flashed,and

eyes

in anger.
interfered with
I have

your

his

enjoyment
solitary

for

of

the

scene.'
'

she repliedcarelessly.
thinkingnothingof it,'

was

the

'Intent, perhaps, upon

the waters

across

'You

there

"

your

untimely.

and
I

as

how

And

'

Being

sought you

letters from

justreceived
'

eyes

seemed

mistaken.'

are

'Pardon, Plautia, for

inasmuch

far away
tion.'
fixed in that direc-

thoughts of Rome,

having intruded
It is all the

with the

hope

of

Rome.'

the letters of Titus

could

more

pleasantly
myself so unto be regretted,
having
your favour,

Afer

concern
possibly

me?'

interest you, in
well'

to

they might probably contain something

affairs of the citywe
love so
the current

discursive

NE^ERA

302

! ' she

'

Humph
garden.

the

thin and
well is

'

said

You

with her gaze stillfixed

drily,
speaking for yourself. You are

are

pale,Afer,and

tryingyou.

the

and
Esquiline,
portico.'

'You, who

PART

absence

the

cityyou
the airyheightof

are

left it

so

can
recently,

mock

down

ing
growlove so

the

after
fretting
view of the housetops from

You

have

from

so

your

I will plead guilty

to
me,' he retorted sarcastically.
charge in order not to spoilthe jest.'

is

It is not

'

My correspondenttells me

passingin
'

It is

power and
said she.
'

Of

'

It

worth

another

own

far afford

'

'

n.

to

the

word.'
is wondering what

that Rome

the island here.'

in the city,
when
considers the
one
surprising
importanceof the absentees
includingyourself!

not

'

"

course,'responded Afer,growingpaler; nor, at the

such
a
same
time, must
powerful factor in the Imperial
destinies as the beauty of Plautia be omitted.'
Plautia smiled and showed
her pearlyteeth,and the face
of the knight grew whiter than ever.
'

seems

the poor
the citizens are

that,surprisedas

exiles on

this island

even
more
mystified
appearance,
there. It is totally
Rumour
at your disappearance
inexplicable.
stolen,murdered, and so on' (Plautia's
says you have been

at

were

smile

your

deepened

she

as

caught

the

fiercely
suppressedtremor

of anger in his voice)

translated to the companionship
or
;
of the immortals,after the fashion of old,'he continued ; ' that
'

believed in.

is inconsolable,
at least,
individual,
frantic,
desperate mad, if you like. Searchingday and night
a spectre.'
wandering sleepless-Jike
do they tell you of only one ? she said
Only one, Afer

is

even

One

"

"

'

'

"

ironically.
'

You
he responded.
can
Only one in such sad straits,'
guess probablywho it is.'
Plautia shrugged her shoulders carelessly.
So may one
love you and perish O wretched example !
could
he said bitterly. If the miserable man
only have
shoulders.'
that careless shrug of your pitiless
seen
I to
Am
The idiot
he has seen
such, doubtless.
many
'

'

'

"

'

'

"

be answerable

for the

presumptionof

such

fools ?

'

said

she,

turningher
and

scorn

him

toward
swiftly

head

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

TALE

xvni.

CHAP,

with

3"3

contempt.
like pallidmarble, but,
knight'sface became
he replied
impenetrable,

The

of

blast
withering

parently
ap-

"

'

be

blame

no

can

'

Thanks

'

Nevertheless

one

should

the

same

how

starred

Martialis is

soon

feel pityand

not

; for who

scorn

Illovertake oneself?
fate may
the firstnor the last who has suffered

not

misplaced infatuation.'
and
in profile,
Her face was
'

the

Of

bosom

friend of

Centurion

here

on

it keenly.
his eyes scanned
I am
speakingof Caius Martialis,

Plautia knows

course

he
Apicius,'

of the Pretorian

worthy

our

friend

on, with

went

ness.
slow distinct-

Lucius,

Martialis,his brother

is also another

'There
a

There

cultivation.

own

you.'

to

'

knows

from

of their

Surelynot, if it be

guard,at present
the

Prefect.

Do

in attendance

you

know

this

worth

the

one?'
'

It matters

trouble

to

whether

not

And

her

like

her.

did

He
had

him

so

then

cold smile

not

grievouslywas
He

bid

must

good-night
"

leaningposture, and gathered

moving
Her

rested

on

off.

Afer's

were

eyes
words

were
mocking
alreadyexperienced.
his lipsas he watched

haviour
disposed to leave her yet. Her bedeeply,and the bitterness which gnawed

feel

stung him

of retaliation.
the

ever

demeanour
insulting

after the

Something

am

now

up her drapery preparatory to

still riveted on
her countenance.
borne
easily

; it is not

gratefulfor your
which has
entertaining
conversation,

herself from

roused

not

or

remember.

try and

visit,
your company,
your
beguiled my loneliness.
it grows chilly.'
She

1 do

too

keen

waited

to be

borne

the solace

until she

few

moments

any

further

without
point of retiring,
said,in a low voice

without

notice

was

on

of him, and

"

'

It would

be

better

to strive to remember
Plautia,
your acquaintanceor not.'

.'Another

time

when

answered, beginningto

they stood.

think,
your while than you
if the soldier-brother be amongst

worth

am

descend

more

the

disposed,'she
grassy mound

on

sternly
which

NEJERA

304

'

At

there

it,because

know, that whether

to

you

I mentioned

'

followed.

graciouspleasure/he rejoined,
as

own

your

are

PAUT

the

in the

rumours

he

leisurely

thought it might interest

acquaintancereallyexist

island of

n.

somewhat

not,

or

close relationship

between

you.'
stopped short,and turned round
sharply,that the skirts and folds of

She
and
out

'Rumours
What

do

queen

to

what

"

what

it is said in the

between

yourselfand
what

And

friends

warm

He

well

fire

the

intense

irritation.

Do

Is it

wish

you

Martialis.'

permitted to

not

his

shoulders,and
and

eyes
looked
down

signs he

haughtiness of

have

to

me

others?'

as

her

to

Noting
'

the Centurion

gentlyshrugged

sudden

the

relationship?

words
Let me
plainlyconvey.
my
island that a warm
exists
friendship

of that ?

as

close

said,with

she

repeat
"

What

rumours?

mean?'
you
slave.

'Nothing, but

the

"

the air.

on

'

so swiftly
upon him
her garments whirled

triflewith

to

the action

brought

the

colour

to

and

smiled

to
covertly,

me,

Afer ?

'

her

she

cheeks.
her

said,in

dangerous tone.
'

bow, which
I

rather brave

I would

lower

was

My

friends

choice

and

'

my

to

in

have

the

should

idle

to

island

"

unlucky

of my choosing; I ever
abide
other interference. It is true I

no

the

met

It is

follyhas

Capreans have

little as

as

chance

on

by
member
re-

sions
occa-

hardly possiblethat it should be

haunts me
like a pestilent
shadow.

predisposeme

more

name

Martialis

younger

the brother

all the

elder brother's

in the
passes current
the
you, I regret I was

always

are

city.

with the

'

it known.'

suffer

otherwise,since
That

than

distasteful

making

of

means

he replied,
with a
himself,'
humilityitself;far from trifling,

to that which

merely alluded

but, if it be

Tiberius

followed
it

saddled

to

possible. The

tale of

timacy
inthe

here,Afer,and the good

even

the wrong

on

increase the

man

"

the mistake

is obvious.'
'That

would

doubtless, if I
amongst

have
were

sure

been

the

that

most

the

the islanders themselves.'

idle

probable explanation

babblinghad

arisen

CHAP,

TALE

xviii.

ANCIENT

OF

ROME

305

Psa !'

temptuously
ejaculatedshe, sweepinground again,as if condroppingall further thought of the subject.
few yards with the knight following.
She walked
a
on
her heel and confronted
she turned sharplyround
Then
on
him again. The
movement
was
unexpected,and she caught
his lip. She stamped her foot.
a smile on
it all means
this is
Tell me,
what
what
!
Quick,
'

'

"

man!'
thorn

'The

hesitated and

her

looked

Speak ! continued

'

I knew

dance

she could

vehement

A
'

continued

pipingand

to my

Do

snatch

imperioustones.
not
rest with that prickle
ranklingin
inwardly;'now her haughtinessshall
the angry

pay for her insolence.'

roused
of her hand at his arm

hear, Afer ?

you

Raisinghis

head

Speak

he looked

his studied deliberate

and

he
as
imperceptibly,

down.

'

'

mind,'he

murmured

he
stuck,'

has

when

I ask you

at her

with

provokinggravity,

attained
easily

manner

him.

'

the effect he

designedfor it.
At

time

no

did

impetuous blood
glowed

with

her

upon
drank
with

in her

she

was

cheeks
a

and

double

excitement

the
in

flashed

eyes.
for, while
gratification,

of her kindled beauty,

his
spectacle
savage joy of power.

Her

tumult

of

filled him

bearinghad

contemptuous

none
passions,

the

less

powerfulrestraint which stifled them.

All the arts of sympatheticlove
lavished

on

mind

hope of hopes ; but

it,from a certain eye

icytorpor with

which
let the
or

lip,and

it

his

heart warmed

with

ing
devourof the

in the chill death

be

be

of its

flungupon

straightway
surges

the fire and

anger

compassion may

of contempt

venom

her

gazed
glance

He

fierce,because

and

lies numb

of

her

in the
a

when

superb, as

so

appear
stirred,and

from

its

furyof deadly hate.

Above
the wild passion which
sickened in the heart of
and profound indignation. He
Afer, struggledresentment
calmly looked back the flashinggaze of his companion, and
a faintly
mocking smile curved his lips.
he said at length; of what do you wish me
Yes, I hear,'
to speak?'
Of what ?
You
bent on
Are we not
are
provokingme.
'

'

'

NE"RA

306

talking
"

did

at

speak of
expense?'

not

you

of the island

PART

my

or

rumour

some

it,

gossip

tavern

in Caesar's villa,
a
as
guest, the
appearance
the tongue
island is mightilyinterested" in you, and, naturally,
and conjectures
follows the bent of the mind.
Many rumours
'Since

are
me

doubtless rife concerningyou.

refer ?
You

which

To

would

you

have

'

playingwith me,
saw
replied; and he plainly

'

she

your

are

I repeat
you dare to do so,'
the effort it cost her to speak,
"

either know
You
something,or
quiet tone.
nothing to the point then, quickly.'
'Your
displeasureis so swift and heavy that it behoves
stand
underto
to be most
me
prudent and cautious. Give me
of what I am
to speak
ence
People call you wise and subtle,but, to me, your prudof the profound wisdom
and caution savours
very much
as

did, in

she

'

"

'

'

of the bird of Minerva.'

sapientfowl which flies about in the night-time

only, and, doubtless,sees many strange thingsin moonlight
and shade,'said he.
me?'
'Once
again do you refuse to answer
Surely not, in replyto a direct question/he answered, as
mention
if taking a malicious pleasure in forcingher to
It is

'

"

'

names.
'

I will

give you a
concerningme

rumours

is only one

'There
'And
She
either
would

worth

you

mentioned

know.'

repeating.'
|

that refers to Martialis.'

was

could

you not
which
indescribable sneer

have

all you

tell me

"

'

pale,with the exceptionof a bright,red spot on

cheek, and, perceivingby her look and tone, that it
tively.
affirmahe nodded
be imprudent to try her further,

'And

'

then,'said she

cue

say

stung him

asked,with
quick.

she

before?'

so

to the

an

should
I
until you yourselfhad uttered the name,
he
what
dared to mention
might prove disagreeable,'

Not

repliedderisively.
'

Proceed, then, and

'

It will
manner;

requirebut
and, it

without

fear.'

few words.
is

said,you

You
came

arrived in

ous
mysteri-

hither of your

own

xvin.

CHAP.

TALE

accord, because
Psa

but admire

the false

absence

of

!'

Rome

knight,though he
could hardly fail to
self-possession,

her

the

could
detect

her tones.

ringon

this is the

'And

the

ridiculous.'

too

are

but
laughed outright,

She
not

You

307

longer endure

no

Centurion Martialis from

the handsome
'

could

you

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

she cried ;
mysteriously/
wine-shopsand on the
you, Titus
condition
pitiful

Afer

And

this is what

Marina

idle

Worthy,

Titus

subtle

"

drag forth so
you
you have heard in the

secret

portentous

Afer

Capreans !

to what

"

empty,

an

of this pile
mind, has the sleepystagnation
the sea
of rocks amid
brought you, that such an idle fable
should
and
so
occupy
your thoughts as to relate it seriously
solemnly to me.'

admit

'I

of

that

faculties

one's

apt

are

to

rust

amid

the

of this place,'repliedAfer, with a sigh

sluggishtranquillity
The
whole
of charming softness.
thing is absurd,but for
the extraordinary
fact,that the wonderful story is not the production
of the gossipsthemselves.
Instead
of being born
in the village
from
below, it has flowed from the villa above
'

"

headquartersitself.'
As

fact,the details of Plautia's romantic

of

matter

venture
ad-

had

spread no further than the reader is alreadyaware

of,but the unscrupulous knight knew the power of such a
it without
statement, false as it was, and, therefore,made
hesitation.

have

To

given the

rumour

the

on

authorityof

simple islanders themselves,was to have rendered it of no

weight with her ; but to boldlystate that it proceeded from
the villa,
at once
to load her with the maddening suswas
picion
the

that she had

he

hated, by

one

perpetratedthe
He

was

been

betrayed. Thus

master-stroke,was
with

falsehood

would

field,in

last

reckoned
was

vain.

triumph
on

any

His

to

mood

of

quiet words

have

must

and

recklessness

have

left him

he

of discovery.

long as life. But to

at
weakness, he perceived,
fell

her

on

for

few

betrayedher

"

ears

with

the

of

master

as

that struck her dumb

Martialis

utter

man

an
prepared to exult over
explosion of
exhibition of shame
to gloat over
an
still,

wrath, or, better

and
abasement, which
a

the

worthy revenge,

an

include

to

an

have
once,
pectedness
unex-

moments.

had

probablytold

all

308

NE^ERA

PART

n.

to his

comrades, as an excellent joke and boast ; and for all she

knew, she had, perhaps,been the sport and objectof secret

laughterto
whirled.

Her

around.

one

every

dilated and

eyes

if seized with ague.

'
! ' she
Infamous
'

But

of your
'I

her robust

choking

head

trembled

frame

this is the

Afer, and

me,

her

"

as

voice.
crown

jest.'
not

am

satisfaction
'

boiled

pride

cried,at length,in

with
trifling

are

say you

Her

replied,dwellingwith complete

the effect of his communication.

on

then, in the

whom,

From

he

mad,'

so

villa,has

such

slander

sprung?'
'

That

'

I must

'

say.'

I cannot

know.'

Drowning

good

too

were

for him.'

'Him!'

women

Him,' repeated the knight,with a nod.

in the villa who
could
possiblybe

such

'

story.

It is certain to be

the

hear

could

He

There
the

Have

man.

grate of her

'

teeth

How

easier ?
another

scullion

to

matter

discover

it is for any

lie

"

Caesar

"

one

make
can
any one
the coward !'

"

breathed

it
"

sounds.
is

what

"

lie !

picion?'
sus-

It is

of
at the fierce intensity
Afer, starting

demanded

'Who?'
the

know

I to

am

of

no

you

heavilyand rapidlythrough her nostrils.

inarticulate
'Suspicion!'she cried,after some
'

no

author

she

as

are

epithet.
'

coward

The

'

taken

looked
a

with

eyebrows,were

sidelongglance.

her forehead

hue, and
moisture.

Her

directed for the

thickets

the

; if we

true

her with

cadaverous

if bedewed

among

at

he may be,'
could only find him

whoever
liar,

the

that is

Humph,

He

"

of

the

eyes,
moment

gardens, so

Her

seemed
under

out.'
face

to

had

shine

as

their knitted

in fierce abstraction
that

he

had

ample

opportunityfor observingher.
cause

fabrication,mischievous as it is,is too idle to

he said,breakingsilence.
I see
Plautia,'
you concern,

it has

troubled

'Such

you

'

you

consider it too

as

I dreaded

much.'

but,in

my

humble

opinion,

CHAI-.

'Can

be

help,and

I will be
'

; and

shameless

But

say.

somewhere

in the

I don't

but what

see

it is

with whom

told his comrades

all

It is

is

much

such

some

attractions.
superior

has

name

beginningmust be
the point I should

story, as

weakness

made
select.

wellis tall,

He
more

of him.

so,

probably

has

He

of

boast

ably,
prob-

his

own

of the

Pretorian nature
in
of the gorgeous
supposed fascination over females.'

plan would

your

likelyas any.
Pretorians,and

as

since the Prefect makes

of

I think the best

fashion.'

as

that
inquiry,

favoured,conceited,like

and

'but
fiercely;

it is he?'

you think
Nay, I cannot
Do

'

309

she retorted

woman?'

with the individual

linked in such
'

firstbe found

must

to commence

been

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

with the coward.'

even

He

TALE

xvnr.

nature,
military
to be vain
particular,

Plautia smiled

disdainfully.
of coming in contact
I had the opportunity
Afer,
conquests the other day,'continued

with

'

his

he is

with whom
The

only.
of

sort

girl
young
of the lower people

infatuated,
they say.
daughter of a potter in Surrentum,
One

for
reputation

his work.

Wishing

of

one

for

'a

who

some

has

some

specimens

thither
of Surrentum, I went
as
a memento
handicraft,
the girlherself attended
in the shop.
to purchase,and
me
on
handsome
A tall,
girl,
lithe,
undoubtedly,and with a manner
she came
however
to that of her class,
altogether
superior
by it.'
of his

'

And

do you

think it

with
likely,

trouble
his sway, he would
ever
'
concerninganother ? said Plautia.

under

'

Oh,

in the

natural

most

these

manner

such

paragon

himself

to

this

as

invent

lie

possible,'
laughed Afer.

Victorydoes

them.
appease
They are insatiable after fresh conquests, like Alexander.'
'
is it possible
?'
Indeed
'

know

You

not

men.

not

"

proceeded calmly to gather togetherthe skirts of her

garments ; and beyond the pallorof her face, the result of
her great mental
excitement,there was
nothing unusual in
She

her

manner.
'

If I

can

help

you

in the matter, command

me,

Plautia,'

said Afer.
'

I ask

nothing save

affair into my

own

your

hands.'

profound silence
"

I will take the

NE"RA

310

It will be

'

her head.

I suppose
the Centurion
of the villa ?'
vicinity
'

'

He

'

You

seems

he took
'

No

on

him

with

its events

small, and

and

everythingthat passes.
I happened to be idlingon the Marina
boat,so that there is no mystery in my
matter
; he will return, I presume.'

when

he

often

the labour.

might

ments/
move-

for his departure,

As
at

the

moment

knowledge.'

well

his

as

mander's.
com-

invariably
posts to
and the Imperial

himself

save

his

few, that every

so

sake as
yes, for his sweetheart's
he
It is a matter
of jest how

in the

for the Prefect.'

errand

an

be very intimate
Plautia drily.

somewhere

know

'to

'Ah

Rome,

be found

to

to

place is so

The

one

is

left yesterdayfor Rome

appear
remarked

'

what
has
a fine breeze
instance,
blowing these three days past a fair wind which would
taken a swift-sailing
from the Marina
to
galleystraight
horses

For

"

without

Puteoli

or

Winds

'

the touch

of

fail and

to

apt

are

probably prefersthe
sweetheart's

'

as

excellent

an

his

as

one

The

sense.

with
replied,

I do

'

you

close

the

road

to

ought
which

sneer
perceptible

it be

of

use

not

his devotion

shows

He

be

to

proud

filled the
to

me,

of

him,'

listener's

you

may

as

know, I grieve to say, but it may be obtained.

is well known, and lives on the further side of the
by the main road ; he is a potter, as I have said.'

Surrentum, I understand, contains many

Afer

of them.

Have

his name?'
considered

'Ah, I know

"

for

it had

few

moments.

almost

slipped my

memory.

His

is Masthlion.'

name
'

not.

from

paces

not

father

town,

few

woman

heart with transport

Lest
this girl's
well tell me
name.'
Her

cunning smile,'because

too, Afer.

'

'

'

travelling.

of

"

And

well

she

He

thereby he gains the opportunityof seeing her

going and coming that is the real reason.'
moments,

few

Ostia

and

Rome,
for

is but

home

have

least desired.

change when

method

surer

been

oar.'

an

'Yes, but why?' said Afer,with

his

n.

well dealt with.'

bowed

She

PART

Masthlion
It is

as

"

good

well

to

!' said

know

Plautia; 'it may

it."

help or

it may

She

'

in

her

attended
I

I
'

the

it.

admit

She

'

small
treats

Hercules

into

burst

knight
If

the

entered

have

way,

not

am

'

dog

'but

I
a

great
admit

eventually

gave

but

to

way
a

on

my

woman

'

the

and

door,

the

off.

not

Martialis

in

box

Pandora's

am

you

hear

shut

and

strode
a

of

you
will

to

me

Vale

man.

opened

mistaken.

spiritless

that

and

bringing

warranted,
a

Afer

apartments.

perceive

now

and

villa,

did.'

for

swiftly

room

laugh

on

of

occasion

than

her

leave;

took
what

the

of

cause

necessary

the

heavier

falls

slander

was

better.

than

more

anger

he

as

relate

to

It

the

sooner

"

said

311

toward

door

unwitting

unwilling

was

the

to

up

the
he

unpleasantness,'
that

silence

been

have

quickly

walked

and

turned

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

TALE

xvin.

CHAP.

to

be

in

own

my

treated

as

Rome
"

no,

she

by

CHAPTER

had

AFER

4\\
her

gauged

which

had

he

XIX.

with

the depth to
accuracy
stirred the heart of Plautia,in spite of

efforts to counterfeit

tolerable

indifference.

Indeed, with the actual

knowledge he possessed of her feelingstowards the Centurion

he could scarcelybe misled.
Martialis,
'She will go straightwayand lock herself"up alone,to give
it all vent,'he thought to himself,
with a grin, and quite right
that she should know
the flavour of what she deals so liberally
'

others.'

to

the

What
the

knight thus shrewdly conjectured was

which

course

Plautia

followed.

No

quittedhim, than, impatiently

refusingall
she

women,

the

to

closed

the

feelingswhich

Furious

door

choked

reflection

; and

uppermost

was

maddening

to

upon

any

her

nod.

She

was

the

nervous

It

her

to

in

extent
answer

burning

token

that the

matter

simple question.
comfort

fevered

To

confidence
of

sneer

and

be

publicity
been

never

haunted

by
and
giggle,though
service which
hung
fists in dull fury.
now

of this which

formed

the obstacle

making personal inquiriesinto

watch

the

smile

on

the

menial's face in

be truly insupportable
questions,would
; but,
her pride disdain
least
to betray the
all, would

than

to

of

would

her clenched

dread

her

of her

full rein

gave

she

her

more

shook

desire

of the evil.
to

them, and

the consequences
intense
pride had

particular. She
the covert
smile, the half-hidden
masked
by the obsequious court
thwarted

the attentions

on

whose

one

had

sooner

against the betrayerof

resentment

was

upon
her.

actually

her

mind

in
was

some

her

gave

The

concern,

even

to

the

thoughts,therefore,which
degree,may

filled with

remained

easilybe perceived.

the form

of the

of

extent

imagined

Her

author

CHAP.

time, in
though once

of

accents

or

reproachand

of

313

muttered

she

from

time

rage and contempt,

like an
twice it fell whisperedfrom her lips,

the

to

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

'Coward, coward!'

trouble.

of her

echo

TALE

xix.

the

deepest

despair,rounded

by

half-hysterical

sob.
But

passingweaknesses

all such

which
overpowering resentment
mischief had alreadybeen done
but

her

left to

Nothing was

eventuallyenable

her to cry
possessionof her mind she

swallowed

were

thirsted

in the
What

for revenge.

to remedy.
impossible

it was

scheme, which

counter

quits. With
the

paced

up

might

this intention in full

yet

room,

was

out
with-

plausibleidea to work upon, when the

sufficiently
arrived.
of Caesar
customary invitation to the supper-table
a

but, on second
impulse was to remain in seclusion,
of courage, and
thoughts,she reproached herself with want
The hour
determined
at once.
to boldlyaccept her position
her attendants
for the meal being near
at hand, she summoned
first

Her

for the business

of her toilet.

perial
change in the party at the Imsupper-table.Plautia,therefore,met the familiar faces,

There

amongst whom
the
is
The
and

much

seldom

was

Afer and

were

when,

indifferent and unobservant

utterly
and
breast is unusuallysusceptible
difficult

so

to

as

be

seldom

or

task of ing
appearat the same
time,

sick with

dread,

nervous

acted

never

result with Plautia was, that her

stiffto an unusual degree. Her

every smile and

disordered
herself.
Her

The

the Prefect

with

success.

bearing became haughty

distemperedmind appropriated

jest as in some
way
reached
even
fancy

connected
the

to

with
slaves

and
with imagined nods
them
back, furnishing
her
on
winks, and sotto-voce jokes. The exclusive demands
engendered an
vigilance
by this morbid sensitiveness naturally

behind

her

abstraction from

the conversation

noticeable,in
particularly

which was
company,
her customary mood.

of the

contrast

to

somewhat
pale,Tiberius expresseda
moreover,
unwell.
fear that she was
Assuringhim to the contrary, she
her sprightliness,
made
a
but,
spasmodic attempt to recover
As

she

unable
mood.

was

to

No

When

began

it,she graduallyrelapsedinto
taken.
further notice,however, was

sustain

the business
to

of

eatingwas

lag somewhat, Zeno,

over,

whose

and

her

the

former

tion
conversa-

watchfulness

had

NE^ERA

3H

leaned
everything,

for

care

in his master's
Tis

PART

the

over

Imperialcouch

Tiberius

ear.

IL

pered
whis-

and

nodded.

artisan from

who
desires to
Surrentum, friends,
show me
discovery.It may
extraordinary
something some
said the Emperor.
to see what it is,'
us
amuse
In a few moments
the Greek returned,followed by Masthfor a moment
to be dazzled
lion,who seemed
by the lights
The Surof the luxuriously-appointed
and glitter
apartment.
'

an

"

-rentine'seyes had

within

crowded
this

the

added

was

he

table,whom

suffered to fall upon

been

never

the

limits of four walls.

the

scrutinyof

concluded

to

such

be

nificence
mag-

When

to

richly-attired
guests

people

highestrank,

the

of

at

was
himself,his temporary embarrassment
only natural. As he stepped inside the room, he made a deep
obeisance
towards a confused
gleam, mingled with forms and
faces.
But
speedilyrecoveringhimself,his keen eye roved
and face,even
of the
round, and noted every particular
swiftly

includingCaesar

slaves who

stood

and

on

rested

the

by repute, he
'

Approach

the

opposite to

table,and

the Pretorian

moved

He

room.

and

he stood

of all and

into the middle

of the floor

flanks,at the
had

guard,who

in his best

dressed

was

brow

pale massive

brillianteyes, which,

his ruler.

his

on

of the

time,

same

him

attended

tunic,

woollen

dark

into

face,with its
striking
tion
deep-setbrighteyes, caught the attenof every
the scrutiny
calmly sustaining

carried in his hand

and

face and

returned

!' said Tiberius.

potter stepped forward

The

the

knew

pale,blotched
belonged to

his gaze

Thence

clustered aside.

wallet.

His

eye.
'

We

to hear
are

ready to

are

what

you ?'
'
I am

My

have

you

name

roused

found

the

raised his

to

you

say,'said

have

to

Caesar.

and
show, artisan,
'

Who

potter of Surrentum,and well known

is

Plautia started
she

what

see

and

folk.
to the towns-

Masthlion,so pleaseyou, Caesar.'

in surprise
fell on her
as the name

eager attention to what

glance of Afer also restingon
with

eyebrows and

ears, and

follow.

her, and

he

She

slightly

smiled.
said Tiberius.
potter,'
Caesar,'
responded Masthlion, although

'

Proceed, then, Masthlion

'

May

it pleaseyou,

should

what

the

'

CHAP.

xix.

TALE

potter by trade, I have

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

devoted

much

time

in
the
making glass, as much
way
of making profit. Twenty -five years

of

"

under

rubbish

strange accident,and

some

Within
the

the

gods,

last

Tiberius

was

benefit

to

At

rate

any

such

remarked
respect,'

command

should

formed

time

I have

its formation.
the

favour

of

Caesar,

duty to

nodded.

'Twenty- five years!

It

as

and

in my endeavours, and to you,

it my foremost
I considered
family,

own

of

piece of
fragmentsand

since that

ever

art

working

ago, whilst
fall upon
a

succeeded

firstafter my
show it.'

'

to

the

inclination

tryingto discover the secret of

three days I have, by
two
or

in

ceased

never

chanced

to

amongst a pileof
very strange quality,
fused
It had been
of the workshop.

glassof

by

master, I

old

my

315

wonderful

verance
perse-

Sejanus drily.

would
the belief that my labour,if successful,
under much
the world, that has upheld me

and

prove

pointment
disap-

poverty.'

and
laudable,'said Afer, in
'Very
which brought a laugh to the lipsof the Prefect.
disinterested

tone

said
sir,'
the potter, bestowing a keen
glance on the knight,and at
I
time opening his wallet, and without being selfish,
the same
with a
sacrifices should
think that my long labour and
meet
justreturn, if the fruit of it prove of real service to others.'
Doubtless,'
quoth Afer.
murmured
Doubtless,'
Caesar,and the knightbecame silent.
This is the specimen I have made
to test my
words,'proceeded
Masthlion,as he drew out a plainbowl of dull-coloured
it to Zeno, who
stood by, and the Greek
glass. He handed
took it to his master
it. With a shrug
who
examined
briefly
'You

would

to

seem

doubt

my

noble
sincerity,

'

'

'

'

of his shoulders
rested
'

on

the

It is true

it was

handed

back

the potter.
that its appearance

to the steward.

smile

lipsof

it,'
nothing to commend
said the latter,but I will explainthat,by saying,
that it was
in haste duringthe past night,
made
that I might hasten hither
of the glassI wish your
to-day. It is not the appearance
highness to judge of that can be made to suit every taste,
with better appliancesthan my
humble
workshop possesses.
The
which
this poor bowl can
be
constructs
same
principle
'

"

has

3i6

NE/ERA

PART

articles as
appliedto produce such costlyand priceless
see
there,' he pointed to some
magnificentvases

those

table.

It is

the

of

nature

know

You

secret.

the

what

of

material

worth

those

Will

the floor ; they would

be shivered
Caesar
bid the strongest slave take

mine

and

see

it on

forms
would

vases

flungon

dash

which

to a

my
if

atoms.

this poor
bowl of
all his might,that he may

the floor with

the result ? '

Tiberius

Nubian

who

took

and

his

turned

servant

round

head

stood

his arm,
The
terrificforce.

his

toward
slightly

behind

him.

the

heightof

cup from Zeno.

it down
he dashed

derisive smile

on

Raising it
on

Exclamations

given over

was

it was

whom

and

of wonder

murmurs

once

more

passed to

the

to

Good,' said Tiberius.

I will proceed to restore
permit.'

'

'

What

floor with

lipschanged

mallet

fashioned

like

and

arose,

was

bowl

and

to

dull
with

the bowl

of Caesar, from
inspection

it

next

to

Receivingthe customary nod,

wallet a small block,slightly
concave
a

full

the others.

'

with

went

the

to

the marble

his thick

gigantic

black

The

for,instead of the expected crash

complete surprise,
thud.
He stooped quicklyand lifted on
high the
side completelyflattened in.
one

will

be

million

the

on

"

'

n.

piece

of

'

its original
shape,if Caesar
the
on

wood,

potter took

from

his

surface,together

one

which

had

one

end

wedge, and the other broad and round like a

pestle. Placingthe bowl on the hollow side of the block,he
proceeded to distend the crushed glasswith the thin end of
the wedge, and, when
sufficient space
had been made, he inserted
the blunt end, and so hammered
the malleable glassto
its original
shape.
Springingup Masthlion once
more
passed the bowl for
a

examination.
'

'

This

That

virtue is my
frail glassis made

Caesar,'said he
discovery,
indestructible.
well-nigh

feat

accomplished at last. To others who

easier to further develop the principle.'
The

potter and

considerable
in the

man

his novel

exhibition had

in the spectators.
curiosity
rather than in his work, not

follow

now

with

pride.

is my
it will be

That

aroused

very
Plautia's interestwas

only by

reason

of the

CHAP.

xix.

TALE

relation

he

bore

also

the

natural

by

OF

and
qualifications
draw

assumed

Prefect

was

ference.
indif-

amused

an

but

betrayed evident attention to

asked
questionsin reference to
many
fitness for further development, not
the inventor brief details concerning

work, and

omittingto

The

sex.

mind,

her

himself

Tiberius
its

Afer

317

absorbed

inclination of her

whilst
genuinelyinterested,

Masthlion's

ROME

affair which

the

to

ANCIENT

from

himself.

lengththe potter received

At

instructed to retain him

was

One

old

at

man

hearingall,with

had

table

and
signalto retire,

the

in the villa until further

Zeno

notice.

his peace, watching all and

and
He
was
pursed mouth.

kept

knitted brows

of the

much
affected
so
was
philosopherswhose company
the abstruse science of
by the Emperor, and his profession
was
whose
attributes of mystery and superstition
a pursuit
astrology,
one

it to his master's

recommended
especially
'

Look

how

rapt in meditation

the stars.
birth of
In

human
'

of Chaldean

the eternal

written

all

but
things,

fall within

the

scope of the
in a low
philosopher,

stars

Oh, for

'

are

man.

tell thee

'And

than

that of

lesson therein

Nothing is
'

been

sacred

Thou

wilt know

now,

Prefect.'

much

well

too

more

"

the

been

of

ears

enough
it

in the heavens

few

?'

only of

engaged in tracing
potter.'

learned

your

new

narrow

wretched

from

the

to

if this
mysteries,

recorded

understanding,'
responded
have
My own
poor powers

destinies
weightier
'

is amid

Say, learned sage

plastic
glasspots has

their inscrutable secrets

tone.

worthy Thrasullus,'

our

'
Sejanus,with ill-concealed raillery
; his mind

remarked

'

is

favour.

!'

Chaldean
lips,

said the old

scoffer,'

some

requiresno

day

all that I could

planets to

tell

us

said Sejanus derisively.

that,'
smiled
Thrasullus
scornfullyand, without deigning to
does Caesar
reply,turned to the Emperor and said,'What
think of this new
to
speciesof glassware,which would seem
be

indestructible
practically
Indestructible

'

the

must

ever

have

the

preferenceover

perishable.'
'

For

material

?'

Yes, when

there

the kitchen and

againsttime

and

is tolerable

equalityin

other

respects.

tables of the poor, the ware

that is proof
as this potter
usage is priceless.But how, if,

318

NE"RA

says, the principlecan

beauty and art, such as
noble
'

and

have

this

not

be

applied to

works

deck

the boards

and

chosen

wealthy,the

It does

PART

of mankind

alter the circumstances.

precious vase

before

mansions

highest
of the

'

I should

safe

me

of the

ii.

from

preferto
all possible

fracture.'
'

And

Thus

the rest of mankind

would

so

then, this union

to what
universal,

sink ?

Look

of

beauty

and

esteem

value

owningsuch

treasure.

and

becoming
economy
will the preciousmetals

of the earth,posit,Caesar, and great ones

sessors
of the priceless
wealth of gold and silver ! This poor
potter with his bowl is a leveller and cheapener of ye all.'
'tisa danger I am
Thank
heaven
quitof,'quoth Afer, in
which raised a laugh; and, after Plautia retired a few
a tone
minutes
later,the discussion upon the very plausibletheory
put forward by Thrasullus was continued with animation some
time longer.
to

'

The

of Masthlion in the character of an inventor

appearance
struck Plautia as a very extraordinary
coincidence,and added
fresh fuel to her excited thoughts. She laysleepless
for hours,

side

from
turning restlessly

image of the potter rooted

man's daughter tormented
had
own
"

The

her.

long ago, but now

took possessionof

her.
"

infatuated and

was

sharplygraven

The

mental

mystery of the

portraitof

fierce desire to

request it of Caesar

old "man

the

in her brain.

formed

eyes
she would

side with

to

She

must

see

her

she

with her

visit Surrentum

nay, she would

would grant her

demand
any

wish

it.
"

A thought struck her,and she started up with the

any whim.
blood tingling
throughher veins. Would not this man's lovely

daughter be
villa than

acceptableand interesting
object in the
glassware! Fool she was not to think of it

more

his

before !
find the

To
within
then

the

fatal walls
Martialis

would

sinister

cherished

the

have

morning

a knight and
Priscus,

had

of the

the

of loveliness
paragon
villa when
he returned ! Ha,
"

his due.

She

sank

back

with

laugh.

When

He

flower

been

evening.

In

of the
half

an

she

came

despatcheda

personalfriend and
party
hour

at

he

the

to
messenger
follower of Tiberius.

supper-tablethe previous
the apartment, newlyentered

CHAP.

TALE

xix.

ANCIENT

OF

ROME

319

shaven, curled,fresh and wreathed in smiles.

domestic
he
her man
well,for in all matters
With

matters
political

he meddled

She

had

chosen

Caesar's

was

fidant.
con-

repelledalike

not,

by inclination and prudence. But in the dailyminutiae of the

personaland privateoccupationsof his Imperial friend and
inestimable
ruler he was
as
thinker,provider,
indispensable,
lion'sjackal.
a true
arranger
with regular,
He was
barelymiddle-aged,
comely features,
which a puffyface and pasty complexion marred
considerably.
His figureexhibited the same
overload
of fat,and, altogether,
he presented the idea of a man,
habits of life might
whose
more
wiselyhave lain in the way of increased bodilyexercise
and Spartan fare.
He used his hands
ate
very freelyto accentuhis speech, but, more
probably,because they were very
small,plump, white,and soft.
Plautia's message
reached
in the midst of important
me
of relief I came,' he said,
business,but at the very moment
"

'

with

a
'

charming smile

It is more

and

of his white

wave

hand.

than I

are
deserved,so trifling
my requirements,
I
Plautia.
left
the
table
last
replied
night somewhat
early,
and I am
anxious to know
whether
I missed
anything in the
affair of that wonderful
ested
potter and his glass. See how inter'

I am, when
sacrifice of your

I presume
to bringyou
so far as
affairs to enlightenme.'
own

with
'Ah,' repliedPriscus,

smirk,a bow,

his snowy
to heaven
fingers,'would
oftener to bid me
attend your presence.

hither at the

and

flash of

your summons
In the matter

came

of the

able,
glass,which was, as you say, so highlyremarkthere followed
of which, to my deep
a
long discussion,
I am
unable to give you a detailed account.
I
utterly
sorrow,
believe the fellow is still detained during Caesar's pleasure,
and the decided opinionlast nightwas, that his new
fashioned
glass,if brought into general use, would sadly interfere with
the more
in case this opinion
So that,
highlyesteemed metals.
be retained,
I should say the unluckyman
will have small cause
in his invention.'
to rejoice
A very hard fate,no doubt, after his toil.'
said Priscus,
Doubtless,'
shrugginghis shoulders ; but it
be helped. If his invention be disadvantageous,
cannot
Caesar

potter and

his

'

'

must

'

interdict it in the interest of all.'

NEMRA

320

'

And

Naturally!
I

courtesy.

your

gainer
Undoubtedly
"

He

seems,

with
Plautia,
not

who

told

"

sorry

Priscus,let
think

to

the

I was
intelligent,

so

'

'

so, noble

am

he seemed

PART

above

the standard

ii.

thank

me

man

poor

you for
will be no

quiteinterested.'
of his class.'

be

well known,' uttered

tolerably
careless yawn.
I know
Somebody about me
he possessed a daughter at home, a girlof
me
moreover,

to

'

"

surpassingloveliness.'

wrinkle
'Ah, indeed!' said the knight,with the slightest
of his brows.
be infinitel
'Now, to my humble
taste,that would
than
interesting

more

bowl.

But

Priscus

which

bowed

Plautia,as

'And
Plautia ;
'

Ah,

there is
works

now
'

forgive
my

an

course,

glass

!'

of that

would

"

excursion half resolved

villa of Mars.

at the new

in due

"

surpassingloveliness

idle message

more

no

say

genius

when
the
speak
is not excepted is absurd.'
and smirked
again with effusive gallantry
returned.
affectedly,
will detain you no
said
longer,my friend,'

Plautia

beauteous

of

to

yet

the child of his

if finally
resolved

I could

remain

But

to-dayto inspectthe
upon
will doubtless hear of it
You
Till then

on.

noble
farewell,

Plautia.'
As

the

day

wore

invitation

for

on,

Priscus

Plautia

came

to

again with

accompany

the

the

pated
antici-

afternoon's

expedition.
experiencehad
yesterday's

far from

away from her mind, and, although she had

dread of
of her nerve, there yet remained
a

recovered

effect of

The

passed
much

appearingamong
last long. Her courage

people. The hesitation did not

was
equal to the occasion,and she had now, moreover, a definite
before
her, she thought, as that
plan of action. The man
individual chattered away, must
knew, of
know, if any one
and pieceof gossipcurrent in the villa and island.
every rumour
She longed to question
him, but her pride recoiled from the
the

attempt.

going out of the room, he suddenly

ing
turned back and whispered,with portentous secrecy, ConcernI am
afraid
to tell you.
that potter,I had nearlyforgotten
As

the

knight was

'

Caesar has been closeted

the verdict goes dead againsthim
with his philosophersall morning
lengthy discussion and
"

"

CHAP.

ANCIENT

OF

TALE

xix.

opinion entirelyunfavourable
this,sub

Silenus tells me
but you

rosa

respect the

will

I know

and

hour

an

to
me

save

321

potter'sinvention

said

I tell it

"

secret

in half

"

to

ROME

you, divine Plautia,

bearer,
the fate of a tale-

litterwill await you

your

"

at

garden entrance.'
borne away by the stout
At the time appointedPlautia was
slaves,and joinedTiberius and his small retinue which awaited
her without the villa gates. After a minute
inspectionof the
which was
rapidlyrisingon a heightbeyond the village,
villa,
Plautia was
escorted to her rooms
the party returned,and
by
drinking
Refreshments
served.
her host himself.
were
Tiberius,

your

wine, reclined
'You

on

couch.

nothing,Caesar,'said Plautia,whose

eat

appetite,sharpened by
appeased.
'

Age

admiringgaze fixed
tillsupper.'
me

upon

her.

refilled his cup

and

'

This

with

'You

She

his

pale

cupbearer,with

face

suffused

was

had

she

he,

tasted for him

tween
be-

with

quietly

Do
you start ?
you think you have
committed
Can you not send for whom
some
grave offence ?
'
you please myselfincluded ?
on

her

his

as

will suffice

me,' he said, layinghis thin hand

told
'

wine

his

he smiled.

started and

Priscus

'

so

morning,'murmured

the wine which

sipsof
ripelips.
the

her

this

for Priscus

sent

not

island

acted

charming,smilinggrace, that
of pleasure.
a faint hue

such

air, was

open

with
youth,'repliedTiberius,

for less than

wants

She

the

healthy
easily

Why

arm.

do

"

good,' murmured
Plautia,with a pretty
assumptionof bashful pleasure.
the Emperor, feasting
his eyes on
the
'Yes,' continued
You
ested
feel interlovelycolour which deepened in her face.
'You

are

too

'

in the
and

sent

you

have

sent

your

artisan and

the work

for Priscus.

pleasureto

am

who

me,

he

showed

us

displeased
"

can

better

you

serve

last

night,

ought
you

to

than

Priscus.'
'

It

was

his work
determined

nothing yet
"

interested
with

me

"

regardto

I confess the man's

I

wished

him

!'
Y

to

know

appearance
what you

and
had

NE^ERA

322
'

counselled

am

that his invention

think

to

firstglance,it would

which, at

be the benefit

TAKT

we
us

not

be.

It

other

things.
unlucky idea,
in
other
it up
be able to make
some
particular let
him here and hear what he has to say.'
of the attendants was
despatched,and in a short time

may
have

"

One

with Masthlion.

returned

before

them

The

potter

but

bearing;
self-possessed

anxious

more

to

seem

is necessary
consider it in conjunctionwith
to
However, if the fellow is likelyto suffer by his

would

n.

came

and

careworn,

as

his customary

ful,
respect-

expressionwas a trifle
if delay and
of enwant
couragement
His hopes had been very

but

him.
dispirited

had

with
his

sanguine.
His

passive
eyes eagerlytried to glean from the Emperor's imout
of the bent of his thoughts,but withtrace
face some

result.
'

has
to

'

lady,'said Tiberius, who

This noble

deigned

to

from

hear

regard

much

so

interest in

specimen you

brought

last

you
you,

as

to

night,
wish

life. With
your
us, that is yet under

lipsthe story

own

your

the

to

take

saw

of

consideration.'
with her regard,'
me
replied
lady honours
I will
admiration
Masthlion,gazing at her with undisguised
;
notice.
The
tell her willingly
; but there is littleworthy of
is seldom
life of a poor workman
anything but the dreary
One
day resembles another,
historyof toil for dailybread.
noble

'The

'

save

food

when
'Go

on

is

and

scarcer

labour

harder.'

!' said Plautia.

requested,and gave a brief

to
the discoveryalready described.
down
sketch of his life,
whilst Caesar
Plautia listened attentively,
beguiled the time
in sippinghis wine and gazing at her face.
said Tiberius,as the speaker concluded; 'and
'Good!'
be idle to mislead
it would
now
you with sanguine hopes.
to know,
needs be disappointing
After so long a labour it must
Masthlion

did

as

he

was

to be unfavourable.
that the verdict upon your invention seems
Build not, therefore,extravagant visions of success.'
like the knell
It sounded
listened in silence.
Masthlion

of his
as

hopes.

if to

assure

His

eyes firstsought one

himself that no
joke was

and

then

the

other,

being passed upon

CHAP.

him

TALE

xix.

; then

far

deign to
disapproval?'
'Its bad

useful.

quiet

aristocrat

work

has

Will
with

met

both

injureanother, when
thoughts they

poor

'

heart.

at

"

importantindustry.'

more

scarce

own

my

be with

to

in one's breast

rooted

respect my

really

seemed

would

rather

are

tend

good.'

'Older

are

limits of your
secret

'And
benefit of

wiser

and

views

your

in what

effect upon

To

mutual

Your

say

industrycan

One

be

needs

must

an

deny it,'said Masthlion,sick

to

Caesar

to

possiblefor
degree.

task
lifelong

it is idle

with

his breast

across

it was

as

of Masthlion's

'

arms

323

infinite sadness.

touched,as
A

ROME

ANCIENT

heart, potter!' said Plautia,who

'Take

'

his

folded

he

but
dignity,

one

OF

think
differently.
yours
circumscribed
by the narrow

than

heads

prejudicedand
work
own
particular

it will be

"

for

necessary

remain

undivulged.'
livingwho would
yet there is no one
then, for such
my glass is it possible,
to

not

hurtful ?' muttered

in the keen

Masthlion

'Tis strange, to
it will be
courage
'

"

say

the

least of

approved

some

"

thing to

"

seek the
be

bitterness of his soul.

Plautia ; ' but
will become

it,'said
day you

'

famous.

Tiberius

smiled

coldly. Seeing Masthlion about to speak

again,he shot him a warningglance and raised his finger.
but
It is enough,' he said ;
I admit the disappointment,
'

'

it is unavoidable.

time your honest perseverance

be able to reWe
compense
praise,whatever its fate.
may
and I am
You are a poor man,
way.
you in some

merits

told

you have
attend on

and

In addition
on

The

comely daughter
this noble lady,whose
a

"

of

the

best

let her

to

come

interest you

Capreae

have

won.

it will

advancement

fer
con-

and
the protection
upon
of mistresses.
such as
It is a chance

offers.'
words

fell on
an

few moments,
so
The warningsand

Their echo

Masthlion

icygrip,and

him.

same

to

his heart with

for

the

the great honour

and
the girl,
she will be bestowed

kindness
seldom

At

no

sudden
censure

like

animation
and

dread

blight.
seemed

longersounded

froze

congealed,

the blow.

was

of his kinsman

Terror

came

foolish.

He

back
was

upon
in the

NE^ERA

324

midst

in the

toils
"

was

to

How

he

his

Neasra
His

vast

of blood

know

to

shop, whom

was

mind

simple request

whose

was

command

came

to

of the

the scent

as

tantamount

then

ii.

less
palace,with guards and sleepwater's
In
down
the
the
environing
edge.
very
the ruthless being, the savour
of whose
putation
publicre-

eyes
clutch of

visitors

PART

as

of

existence ?

her

Cestus

had

in the

well known

warned
town

as

Those

two

of!

But

him

himself.

lowly home, and picturedhis

that the fire of desperationrose
darlingso vividly,
upon the
chill horror which
filled him.
all purityand
She, who was
womanliness, to inhabit there ! They might rend him in
piecesere he would consent.
his parched lipswith his tongue, and could
He moistened
He
looked
scarcelytrust his voice to frame an answer.
up
Caesar
and
the
beautiful
him.
woman
were
again.
watching
immovable
The
seemed
to
to piercehim
eyes of the former
flew back

his

to

the marrow,
and he shuddered.
'
What
troubles you, fellow ?' said Tiberius,
in harsh
'have you not a daughter to send hither?'

tones

please you, Caesar, and this noble lady,I have a

pose
daughter,and I am gratefulfor the graciousfavour you pro'

So

for her ; but for her to leave

life the only joy and consolation

my
of my

work

'

Tush

of old

age

This

the

The

of the

occasional

your

'The

noble

since the hopes

left,

childishness
way that the maudlin
words
of hale
the common-sense
not

speaks, and

benefit

take from

to

is the

heartymanhood.

and
to

it has

be

destroyed.'

been

have

would

me

lady

girl,and

need

has

of her

it will be

"

hand

for

she

will be

deal

hardly with us,' said

removing from our poor

nigh at

visits.'

lady will

not

Masthlion; 'she will not insist on

the only lightit possesses ?
home

so

'

'

service

My

and the
easy and pleasant,
distress yourselfwithout reason,'said
will be

happy you
with singularsatisfaction at

be

"

the

unexpected turn

girlwill
Plautia,

things had

taken.

Enough,' said Tiberius, it is settled.

which frightens
you will grow wiser on
you
'

'

"

go

"

you

will receive your

It is the bare

idea

reflection. Now

instructions to-morrow.'

CHAP.

xix.

TALE

OF

ANCIENT

ROME

325

Masthlion

seized upon a last thoughtwhich struck his

instead of obeyingthe command,
fell on his knees.

and,

Pardon, Caesar, but it

have called her, is not my
'

whom

be

this

daughter,as I
begotten child. Those, to

cannot
own

belongs,still live,and

she

mind,

"

it is

beyond

my

disposeof her, whether I would or no.'

It matters
said Tiberius ironically
refer
nothing,'
;
'

'

to me

who

"

'

I know

them

dwell in

and

they?

are

'

She

'

Then

delivered

it

to

me

childless and
'

Dare

and

Zeno

and

wealthy

put into the hovels

of

the

"

child

orphan

an

last few weeks

of poor

she

"

parents

"

was
was

her in.'

tell fables to

me

"

!' cried the

'
go !
she

waits there ?

the steward

and

is

noble's

daughter
potter in reckless desperation.
said Tiberius,starting
lenience,'

you destroyall
terrible frown; 'cannot

Who

Both

the

"

until within

not

I took

come

Away

with

up

noble

wildly.
not

are

truth,before the gods

cannot
'

of nobles

as

you

is

'It

they are

Emperor contemptuously.
infant.'
stolen and brought to me
when
was
an
your head is in danger.'

knew

'I

that

save

Rome,' said Masthlion

returned
potters,'

them

'

not,

children

'The

to

power

come

insolent!

"

Ho!

'

the soldier

guard appeared in the

almost as soon
the words had left the Emperor's lips.
as
room,
By the wrathful tone and the angry glow in their master's
order.
The
Pretorian's heavy
eyes, they expected a summary
shoulder,but Tiberius
grasp had alreadyfallen on the potter's
toward
the door, and fell
merely waved his hand impatiently
back

his cushions.

on

'Quick,you
aided
was

on

by

fool !' whispered Zeno

the Pretorian

hurried

on

from
staggering
said

'Haste!'

the other
the

in Masthlion's

side,the

wretched

ear,

and,

potter

room.

the steward

again, when outside,'before

he changes his mind.'
He dragged his charge along through
the mazes
of the palace,without stop, until he depositedhim,
like

more

contained

man

his

Masthlion
with

groan.

in

dream, in the

narrow

littlecloset which

sleepingpallet.
sank

thereon

and

buried

his face in his hands

NESERA

326

Hark'ee,
'

while,
seen

fools
take

take

my

better

men

make

to

word

come

take

business
"

for

it,

be

and
your

wares

well

are

you
off.

careful
to

It

the

on

regarding

after

Zeno,

worse

experiments

advice

my

said

comrade,'

PART

is

safer

for

only

temper
and

of

out

less
market.'

of

him

that.

for
I

madmen

have
and

do

Caesar
"

ambitious

n.

in

you
your

CHAPTER

the

WHEN
him.

in the

posture

same

He

villa ; but

he

the

enter

to

otherwise to

table,and

as

of

still upon

was

when

of the

walls

his

had

Zeno

cell gave

the

left

much

not

movement.

free

was

white

Masthlion

Indeed, the cramped space

opportunityfor

the

upon

morning,

next

much

palletbed,

flashed

sun

palace

XX.

servants'
himself

amuse

remained

had

in his

hall,to

within

eat

their

at

the limits of the

heedless

retreat

narrow

of all.
the

As

morning

wore

entered.

steward
The

potter

the door

on,

was

his face with

years.
'Well

!' said

the

'

Well

! echoed

the

the

usual

calm

some
hand-

with

prise.
sur-

single

"

furrows

careworn

latter,
startingup with

supplanted his
'

the

gazed upon Masthlion

gaunt, haggard, and wasted

scored

had

and

He

nighthad

which

opened,

of twenty

unsettled

an
'

Well

gaze.

look,

!'

Greek, regardinghim with undisguised

curiosity.
'What
commands

the

from

message

None, as yet, Surrentine

betters,for walls have ears.'
'

Masthlion
on

his

what

hoary tyrant

"

are

his

'

hand

sank
with

back

"

his

on

action

an

and

of

of
speak respectfully

your

and dropped his

pallet,
utter
weariness,mental

head
and

physical.
'

Hark'ee, brother

no

one

has

seen

or

heard

anything of

when
I took thee to the presence chamber
you since yesterday,
stirred from here since I quittedyou ? '
"have
you never
'No.'
'

Then

you

have

neither eaten

nor

drunken

'

NEMRA

328
The

'

I daresay.
slepteither,

Nor

'

I think

'

In

not.'

for

like

look

truth,you

vault

month.

business

is the

What
amiss

has gone

with

"

taking care

cursed

as

trouble?

this is not

rate

drink

and

he

that

Caesar, or
any

sealed up in
Is it because

and

'

gate.'

the latter

kind.

'

you

scared

the way
fresh air,

beyond the outer

are
repliedMasthlion,rising
;
you
say, and wait and hope for the freedom

not

Thanks

will do

to breathe

has been

who

man

both ? At
or
your life half away
mend
it. I recommend
meat
to

'

IT.

his head.

potter shook

'

your

PART

of these

walls.'

if you lived in them

long enough you would be
more
guarded in your language. Your visit has not been
unduly knocked
pleasant it is hard to have one's expectations
'

Hum

"

"

on

the head

it to

take

you

"

heart,and

you

had

ill

an

it.'

night of
'

It has

passed now.'

'

Every

man

his

to

own

had

If you

way.

Every

his

to

man

tried to drown

would

instead of nursingit,you
your sorrow,
this morning.'
better man
'

have

been

have

way,'said Masthlion,with

own

wan

smile.
'

The

Zeno.
So

gods
'

be

praised
"

! don't

Mark

mine

attempt

saying,he vanished,and

now

to

lies

pass the

elsewhere,'returned
'

gate !

outer

Masthlion, after

few

more

of
reflection,
followed,to act on the recommendation
the steward, and break his long fast.
all
led him to shun, as far as possible,
His misery of mind
minutes'

of

food

corner,

The

hastilyswallowinga few
heartydraught of rough wine, apart

with others ; so,

intercourse
and

in

quiet

he stole out-of-doors.
wine

and

but his condition

corner

mouthfuls

of

the
was

wall and

fresh

morning

yet pitiable.He
sat

down,

air restored

sought a

but could

not

him
warm

rest.

vastly,
sunny

Cramped

motionless
the past
he had
remained
by his narrow
room,
had produced
of his apprehension
night,tillthe acute suffering
But
under
the open
a merciful
now,
speciesof drowsiness.
heavens, and with ample space on every side,the functions of
such activity,
nervous
his mind resumed
as to develop a painful

CHAP.

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

TALE

xx.

329

thither.
hither and
impelled him ceaselessly
but
A wider field for reflection might have brought him relief,
whom
he loved
knew only,that one
He
denied him.
that was
in worse
lifewas
better than his own
danger than that of death.
Like
in passiveagony.
this dread fact he brooded
On
flame amid
it pierced him with its searing
orb of torment
an
encasingblackness,through which his mind struggledin vain
which

disorder

to

into his brain ; and round

thither,without rest, his feet wandered

for relief.

escape

It scorched

round, hither and

and

within the
His

the

was

emotional

to

come

The
him

knew

Knew

true

artist
"

for him.

worse

end

his terrible suspense

vast

palace,gleaming

No, he knew
than

More

in the

his home

sun,

with

madness

the

But

boats.

feverish

glances.

to force his way

him

of the tyrant himself and

boldly pass the outer
gate and

to

mock

to

alreadybeen invaded.
that he was
helpless.

of such

his

demand

the presence
or

seemed

had

nothing,save
despairurged

once,

never

its silent entrances

but what

not

Caesar's commands

Would

passed on.

he watched

as

He

all the

"

hours

The

of the

soul

imprisoned him.
deeply
keenly sensitive,

the infernal walls which

girdleof

gain the
act

an

was

into

freedom,

fishermen's

evident

even

ing
lollthoughts. At every outlet a guard was
his spear, his gildedpanoply shiningin the sun.
on
lazily
One
shadowy hope there was, that Cestus might have persuaded
But
that was
Neaera
to
hoping
proceed to Rome.
in his heart she
againsthope : the unhappy potter knew
to

his

wild

own

would

No

consent.

never

there

"

she would

remain

until he

be the prey of the spoiler.

his pale forehead
the agony of
as

returned,and there she would

big drops stood

The
his mind
with

the
up

tore

on

His

him.

brain

overloaded

seemed

to

rock

ened,
Suddenly the sunlightbrightvague, hideous burden.
it were, into a fierce white glare. The vast fabric of
as

palace,with
round

him

and
sickness,
surgingmasses

each

with
caused
were

neighbouringobject,seemed
filled him

motion

which

him

spread

about

to

to be

out

launched

with

his arms,
upon him.

to

heave

deadly

as

if the

sky giganticshapes whirled and swooped

him ; but when, as it seemed, they were
the point of
on
upon
His
crushinghim, they dwindled and fled as suddenly away.
Out

of

the

NEsERA

330

PART

n.

in the
and distend as rapidly
to contract
very brain seemed
terrific he strove
awful proportions.It was
shout
to
same
"

in his terror, but

immovable.
were

aloud
limbs

The

colossal

his voice

sphereswhich darted
tinytwinklingspecks

and

masses

again into

him

within him, and

died

down

his

upon

far away,
shot away
so
with a
into such immensityof space, that his soul shuddered
the awful
sensation
at
frightful
gulf yawning before him.
Back

they came

"

as they rushed, in
swelling

"

of their career, like Titanic globes upon

took the semblance
of
of them
One
Down

his brain

seemed
senses

in it a

When

recovered

he

appallingproximity. His

livid,
grinningcaricature of
his

at

arms

fell senseless to the

tottered and

"

with its

he thrust out

"

on

to burst
saw

ghastlyvisage
terror

paralysedvision.

face, distorted and

it swooped in stupendous bulk, so close that

ghastly.
delirious

his

brief second

the

consciousness

it and

Caesar's

shrieked

ground.
himself

he found

lying

circle of faces

ground where he had fallen. A

him, and Zeno was kneeling beside

the

in

him

rounded
sur-

with

the

potter

cup

in his hand.
'

coming to,'said
opened
deep sighand slightly

Ah,

he is

now

gave a
further back

idle,gazingmenials
Masthlion's lips. A few

he looked

His

around.

of

comes

"

those

cleared,and he shuddered
dread

visions

of his

as
strained
over-

fastingand watching,Surrentine,'quoth
is spiteful
the cup
when
again; Nature

of her due.'

robbed
'

'

Ay,

have

must

with

man

!'

I shall

soon

dead
'

Back, back

'

Zeno, offeringhim

his eyes.

'

gave way, and Zeno held the cup

mouthfuls
restored the potter,and

faculties

his memory
brought back
brain.
'This

Greek, as

!'

The

to

the

weakness

and

Masthlion
muttered
fainted,'
feebly.
yellwhich was enough to curdle the heart
be all

right,but

must

confess

to

of

certain

dizziness.'

Come, these fellows shall help you to your bed.'

But Masthlion,refusingthe offer,walked away unassisted,

'

though

somewhat

inside
falteringly,

the

palace to

his

pallet,

CHAP.

whereon

flung a

Zeno

'

bidden

was

that is

art

little

and

set

drink

some

thee,and I dare
the other,with a grin.

to go

near

much,
away

it is

and

as

not
'

much

But
as

nightfallhow

before

"

disobey
listen,
I know
and

in

not.'

I know

way

not

was

of

care

tell thee this

far,that thou

what

he

for his kindness.

him

take

to

him,

over

all,'answered

potter,I may
so

cloak
thanked

Masthlion

him.

gladly,for

331

confused.

and

shaken

"

stretched himself

he

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

TALE

xx.

gods bless you for the words,'cried Masthlion,whose

face lightedwith unspeakablejoy.
and hastened
Zeno shrugged his shoulders,
away.
The joyfulintelligence
appeared to pour a calm, soothing
man's spirit,
influence on
the suffering
and, in weariness and
and body, he fell into a profound slumber.
weakness
of mind
to have
He seemed
sleptonly a few minutes when he was
He
looked
aroused by a hand touchinghim on the shoulder.
'

up

The

and

Zeno

saw

'

beside

more

the littleroom

and
failed,
'

once

was
'

do you feel ? asked

Better
I have slept.'

How

him.

daylighthad

The

nearlydark.
the steward.

"

good hours
you are now
Masthlion,with tremblinghands,
'

Three

"

to

depart make
"

ready.'

lifted his wallet from

the

floor.
'

said
ready,'

am

They
reached

went

the

he.

out, and

outer

the

steward

never

spoke

until

they

gate.

individual
an
Conversing with the soldier on guard was
well wrapped up in a cloak.
is your charge,'
said Zeno, addressing
him.
Here
The other nodded
and ejaculated,Good,' as he bestowed
the potter.
a sharp glance on
Farewell,'pursued the Greek to the latter ; I come
no
and
here
Plautus
our
further,
acquaintanceends, I suppose.
goes to the opposite shore; he will take charge of you, and
has instructions to see
Surfarewell,
safelybestowed
you
'

'

'

'

"

rentine !'
The

man

called

eager excitement
rather hastily.

to

Plautus
be

gone,

laughed.

Masthlion, in

uttered his farewell and

his

thanks

NE^EJ?A

332

'

PART

IT.

Come, then, Surrentine,'

quoth Plautus, stridingthrough
'

the gate,

the

boat

waits,and

I have

far to

go

and

much

to

do.'
The

potter needed

precinctsof

the

no

and
villa,

encouragement
when

to

quitthe

clear of its

once

abhorred

shadow, he

prayer of thankfulness and relief. With a lightstep

and eager heart he followed the rapid pace of his conductor, his
mind being too fullof hopes and fears to attempt a conversation.
breathed

The

of

absence

any

command

regarded with

from

Emperor with
satisfaction,
as a
plausible

regardto Nesera,

he

argument that

further insistance in the

he

Yet

anxious

was

He

burned

own

door

no

for the moment

again
"

and

anxious

more

"

to

matter

than

arrive when

yet he dreaded

the

he

was

cared

he should

intended.
to
enter

own.

his

it too.

curious

enough to ask of his companion, if

the oppositepoint,in which
he was
to be landed
he
on
case
would have a longjourneyon foot to accomplish. He received
only an unintelligible
growl in response ; so, fearingto irritate
what seemed
to be a cross-grained
temper, he held his peace.
Descending the steep declivity
they issued on the narrow
Its
Marina, where a galleyready drawn up awaited them.
about amongst the idlers,
of about eightmen
were
crew
lolling
their ears, they
the gruffvoice of Plautus fell on
but when
sprang to their placesin readiness to ply their heavy oars.
In with you,'said Plautus to Masthlion
; and the boat,by
a vigorous
shove, was swept out on the bay.
Give way
bend your backs,and the sooner
shall be
we
home
called Plautus,as he seized the steering
oar.
again,'
Sit you justthere,and move
not, Surrentine.'
He
pointed to a placejust astern of the stroke-oarsman.
and became
tions.
The potter sat down
again absorbed in his reflecOnce

he

was

'

'

"

'

of largeframe and muscle,

picked men
and they urged the boat through the water
at a swift pace.
dusk
The
was
beginning to fall,and the distant shore was
above were
of mountain
though the dark masses
barelyvisible,
sharply outlined against the clear sky. They skirted the
the brink of which, far above, rested
stupendous cliffs,
upon
with a sullen,
broke
the walls of the villa Jovis. The
sea
dismal
plash againstthe perpendicularwall of ragged rock,
The

slaves

were

all

CHAP.

the boat

and

TALE

xx.

ANCIENT

OF

ROME

stillmoving in the

was

333

of the

shadow

Plautus, in his deep tones, bade

when
cliffs,

the

ing
overhangcease

men

rowing.
boat, with its freightof
Masthalong like a phantom.
forms, glidedsilently
their oars, and

They lay on
motionless
lion

looked

for the

account

to

up

the

command.

sudden

The

frowning,toweringrocks,the portentous gloom, and the cold

inky water sent a shudder through his frame.
said the voice of Plautus, you are the potter
Surrentine,'
kind of glassware?
who came
to Caesar
to show
a curious
in the affirmative.
Masthlion
The
answered
question
him
had
all
took
so
thoughts of his
completely
by surprise,
unlucky invention been displacedby those of Neaera.
of making that
alone possessed of the secret
Are
you
same
glass?'
I alone
why, friend ? repliedMasthlion.
in his gratingtones,
Plautus
Why,' said the cloaked
'

'

'

'

'

'

"

'

'

it has

because

been

with you elsewhere.'

'
Elsewhere
!' cried
'

what
'

the

mean

"

Where
!

sea

shall take

you

Masthlion, with
am

be

never

take

I to

found

secret

your

sharp foreboding;

a
'

it ?

again
"

to

the

bottom

of

'

uttered

Plautus

As

where

you
it can

that

decreed

the

words

he

threw

his

up

arm.

Simultaneously the potter'sthroat was

grasped from behind
by a hand of iron. As he fell helplesslyback, a poniard
all in a brief second
of
was
plunged deep into his heart
"

time, ere
The

well.

assassin

His

make

he

victim

voice

raised

"

gentleheart
The

'

could

unneeded

was

his

he

was

of

sound

or

his weapon

motion.
for

another

had

had

stroke,but it

already done his terrible

died on the instant,
without a

stillfor
Plautus

work

too

murmur

ever.

broke

on

the

terrible

silence.

Caesar's justicemust
be
said,'a good stroke
done.
for the daughter,whom
Now
he is bound
to father in
this one's place. We
must
quick, in with him !
get on
A heavily-weighted
cord was
produced there was a sullen
plunge, and the boat again went
foaming through the water
to complete its mission
of violence.
Habet

!' he

"

'

"

"

CHAPTER

VKTHEN
V
'

the
the

brought up

was

mainland, Plautus,

ashore

sprang
house.

craft

XXL

with

and

followed

all haste

The

superintendentwas in
business of feedingand making
his charge.
under
'

Horses

!'

demanded

inside,followed
'Humph

by
on

"

the

at

five of

by

made

landing-placeon
his

the

toward

crew,

posting-

long stable,overlooking the

nightthe

for the

snug

he

as
laconically,

Plautus

his gang.
whose
business?'

said the

animals

strode

superintendent

suspiciously.
'

Caesar's

!'

'

Humph

! I must

have

Plautus, without
the official'snose,
of his

speaking,thrust
displayeda signetringgleaming

and

of horses

man

gesture, which
said

grooms,

Plautus

made

the

nag

one

on

angry
the

turningto

laugh,and

new-comers

an

snappishly,Give him Livilla.'

again thrust his ring under his visage.
'

'

Livilla

do

for

me

"

here

pick

six of

are

out

us.

said

will

Nor

lads, and

own,

your

'

no

palaver.'
This

to

soon

was

and
jesting,
road

with

his head

back

bobbed

horses,'he growled roughly ;

more

for that.'
your word
his fist close up under

bony fingers.

The

the

than

more

in

few

done, amid
minutes

much

they

Surrentum, making the

were

most

noisy mirth
all

order, to

attract

dark, however, and

the

less attention.
few
passers-by

The
in

rude

speeding along the

last minutes

of the

departing daylight.
Arrivingat the town, they proceeded

and

at

of

walk, in straggling

streets

number

were

now

; neverthe-

less

OF

TALE

xxi.

CHAP.

Plautus, in the

thought

van,

devious

curiosity
by takinga

ROME

ANCIENT

335
defeat

fit also to

idle

any

route.

dwelling of the ill-fated

Masthlion,the band dismounted ; the sweating horses were
left in charge of
fastened in a gloomy corner,
and
man
a
them.
Plautus,with the remainder,proceeded to the house.
Within

The

hundred

door

outer

yards of

the

closed

was

all

and

dark

was

silent.

and

Plautus,orderinghis companions to remain without

called them, knocked
loudly. A lightstep came

until he

running

within.
'

Father, is it

you

? ' called

the

glad

of

tones

Nesera's

voice.
bolt

opened, and the girlherself

stood in the entrance, holdinga lightabove her head, whilst
she peered beneath, with eager expectationwritten on
her
A

drawn, the

was

door

face.
'

No, my

pretty wench, it is

not

your
forward

father,that's very

out
sure,'
quoth Plautus,as he came
into the feeble lightthrown by the lamp.
Nesera, with a cry of alarm,started back
the shrouded
figureand the harsh features of
Stop,'he said,making good his entrance

of the darkness

the

'

'

don't be

afraid

from

come

Masthlion
'

of the absent

me

of

him

coming ?
'

For

run

your father
the potter.'

am,' said

timidityof

nor

the

one

the

If I'm

is,if

not
are

you

inside the

shop ;

I've
father,
daughter of

your
the

whose
disappointedgirl,
anxietyto learn
struggledagainst feminine suspicionand

ill-favoured visitor.

Why

"

away.
that

sight of
speaker.
the

at

does

he

not

'

What

have

home

come

to

you
When

tell

is he

'

reason
particular

he

has

not

come

coming yet. That is why he has sent me

him.
To
and
speak truth,he is taken very ill,
he

home

nor

bring you

to

you

are

is
to

bidden

with me, straightway,

to tend him.'
'
That shall be my business,'
said a voice behind ; ' ill,
did
'
ill?
you say
my husband
'Eh!'
ejaculatedPlautus,scanning the wrinkled anxious

to go

back

"

face of Tibia
'

as

she

came

forward

'

are

you

his wife ?

'

Yes,' cried Neaera for her,in great agitation;tell us, good

sir,if he is very

'

ill
"

speakquicklyand

tell us

all.'

336

NEMRA

'

'

How

'

None

save

"

No

"

is the kinsman
Somewhere

no

there of you ?
kinsman
who dwells with
are

for

us

space

"

father.'

my

where

And

'

more

many

oh, tell us of
'

n.

PART

?'

is he in the house

"

in the

You

town.

are

cruel in
'

tormentingus
speak then, and say what we are to do ?
I have alreadytold you.
he is ill,
He has sent for you
dying so haste and come
along,if you would see him alive.'
A smothered
and Neaera turned
cry broke from Tibia's lips,
pale.
back
the girl,tottering
againstthe
'Dying?' murmured
"

'

"

"

wall.
'

It

was

me

he

have

should

confrontingthe wily ruffian

At

'

you

for

"

have

his

made

said Tibia,
wife,'
a mistake
surely.

any rate she shall not go.'

1
She must, and quickly.'
'

It would

it is my
remain.'
now;

'

are

sent

impossiblefor
place and duty to
be

to travel?'

Plautus

as
girl,

go to my

both go ?
said Neaera,pale but

Ah, mother, can

we

not

we

and

scowled

gnawed

his

she

is,to

husband

Where

go with you
she must

"

is

he, and how

self-possessed.
Then
lipfor a moment.

I admit the wife has a claim before the

said, 'Well,well!
let the girl
and get your cloak
daughter. Go you, therefore,
All blame
be on your head.'
remain by the house.
must
with the
Tibia instantlydeparted into the upper
rooms
be long.
that she would
not
assurance
said Neaera,
You
have not yet told us where my father is,'
alone ; you are
when
unkind, as a messenger, to
they were
Did
he send no words beyond
those who hold him dearest.
token?
to go
no
Speak, for the love of the
bidding me
gods !'
and see if
but I'llbring in my comrade
I don't recollect,
he has a better memory,' repliedPlautus.
He whistled and his accomplicesfiled in. Neaera,in great
he

"

'

'

"

'

alarm, turned
but

Plautus

same

moment

into the house,

the passage
At
the
dexterouslyplaced himself in the way.
her
twisted round
cloak was
head, which
a
to

dart

away

down

the work
stifled the cry on her lips. To pinion her limbs was
of an
instant,for the worthy slaves were
prepared for every

CHAP.

TALE

xxi.

OF

ANCIENT

ROME

and made
lightof her
emergency,
borne outside.
and helpless
she was

337

struggles. Thus

gagged

remainingfour men
the house, carrying

The

closed the door and passed into

instantly
the lightwith them.
in her room, where
she
The unhappy Tibia was
surprised
a few articles for her supposed journey.
was
collecting
hastily
she cried,as the ruthless slaves
'What
do you want?'
into the

crowded

at

narrow

room.

They advanced toward

their menacing aspect.
and

leader

half drew

in

screamed

affright

of them

One

knife

she

her, and

rolled his eyes to his

his belt.
But no orders

from

any further use of the weapon, and Plautus,

experience,
kept to the letter of his instructions.

had

been

from
'

givenfor
'

Silence,hag ! he roared,' and keep your traps

you
As

"

keep house since your girlhas now

gone.
is
he
for
he
the bottom
doesn't
want
at
you,
your husband,
the sea, and his glasspot with him
we
put him there as
came
along to-night.'
of humour,
matter
As if his pitiless
a
were
brutality
stay and

"

can

for
of
we

the

accompanied it with a grin. The poor woman

gave
sank
his
terrible
and
down
beneath
words,as
agonisedcry,

wretch
an

the kinder

though piercedwith
'

You

'

"

Not

it was

have

killed

I,'returned

thrust of

her,'said
Plautus

well behaved

to

sword.

of his comrades.

one
'

she'llmake

sturdywidow

go off in that fashion and

save

yet
us

trouble.'
The

limbs

insensible dame's

tied,and
which

then the

mouth

room

gagged,her

was

There

ransacked.

poor, frail

nothing,

was

seemed

however,
worthy of any particular
notice,and
similar
attention to the remainder
they proceeded to devote a
of the house.

Every glassarticlewas

prove it did not possess

in the search for whatever

smashed, to

the interdicted malleable

might
the whole

have

some

of the poor

hither and thither.

and

occupiedonly a
The

workshop

and,
quality,
bearingon the same

appointmentsof
This process was
few minutes.

outside

devastation entered

The

bodily. Every

could

upon.
article which

very

then

was

the

luckless

were
dwelling

be

tossed

rapid and thorough,

entered, and

furnace

invention,

was

work

of

pulled down

destroyedwas

utterly

338

NEJE.RA

wrecked.

and

explored,
the

In

in

desired,

silence,
and

Imperial

tools,

sack

whole

The

rapidity,

when

and

minute

another

horses.

the

potter's

and

reflected
household.

cavity

and

finally,

thrust

were

nook

Every

PART

rigorous

the
which

the

and

out

was

gathered

pleted,
com-

together,

away.

had

marauders

campaign
completeness
the

examination
been

had

carried

raked

zealously

was

n.

highest

been

had

credit

with

executed

which

left
on

their

regained

nothing
the

to

discipline

be
of

XXII.

CHAPTER

NO
to

the

having been received for three

tidings of Masthlion
Cestus, had given himself up
days, his brother-in-law,
gloomiestforebodings. At the end of the second day
used

he had

his sister to

all the arts of his

set

persuasionto
their

At

off for Rome.

lost his temper, with

refusal he had

the

induce

Nesera

and

distinct,
unreasoning
effect of causing his

than he would
to speak more
violently
tongue, in desperation,
discourse
The
been
had
otherwise have thought prudent.

suddenly brought
from

Neaera

the

room,

of the

rage, slunk out

and harassments
A

scene

of

to

close, by the
at

which

house,

to

his favourite

at

much

the

the

abrupt retirement
worthy Suburan, in
drown

and

go

his

of
a

anxiety

wine-shop.
character

same

had

occurred

on

still more
violent fit,
he had
a
followingevening,and,
detested dwelling of his sister,
to seek
again quittedthe now
the solace of copious draughts of liquor.
thus engaged in a temporary return
Whilst
he was
to his
have seen
what occurred
old indulgent habits,we
at home.
hour
An
already recorded, he
subsequent to the events
went
back, not without a suspicionof unsteadiness in his gait.
luminous
haze had
succeeded
to the short
Although a faint,
had not yet topped the crests
of
period of darkness, the moon
the hills which
girdledthe town and valley. His vision being
of the wine, he did not peralso a littleblurred with the fumes
ceive
this
that the door, which
closed
at
was
always
hour, was
his
raised
fist to deal it a blow as usual, but,
wide open.
He
he overbalanced
himself and fell forward
meeting no resistance,
in

the

on

his hands

and

knees.

he got up and went

forward.
the fragments of glass and

With
At

an

every

pottery.

oath

of astonishment

step his feet crunched

More

astonished

than

NE^ERA

340

and

ever,

roared

without

not

for

out

leadingwithin.

No

constrained

was

the

lifemet

his

What

house

Tibia

"

voice

"

was

house

; but

alarm

and

once,

caught his

which

or

sound

forward

go

his way

the silence,
he
relieving

in the

dark

until he

reached
found

was

; but

of all that'sdamnable

name

he

'

in

no

got

is it a

Nesera

to

remained
not

on

sign of

joke
"

and

one

or
thieves,

his

for his

return

no

has

he

most

what ?

shook

roar

pains.

Where

the

With

little

increasing

his way into the room,

and, at
substantial article of furniture,

groped
againsta
unexpected position.

shin

to the

come

hillo !'

"

mean

soberness

was

dumbfounded

moment,

?' he muttered

His

groped

ear.

in the

they

are

he

he
wrong,
to the passage

dwelling-room.The door of this

the gloom impenetrable. He

common

be also open, and

the threshold,
for
'

answer

to

n.

suspicionof something

whilst
light,

PART

He

fell with

moments
in
pain and rage, and some
absorbed
were
charing his leg. This done he proceeded more
cautiously,
after
in
a long search,succeeded
and,
layinghis hand on flint
and
steel.
He
produced a light and surveyed the room.
He
Every article had been dragged about and ransacked.

cry of

looked

the scene, with mouth

agape, in blank amazement.
into the shop. The
rushed
forward
shelves were

on

Then

he

bared

of their contents, and the floor littered with their fragments.

to the upper
Turning back he ascended
floor,and

back, tied and gagged, he perceivedthe form

Tibia,with her eyes restingupon him in the strange agony
speechlesshelplessness.
there,on

her

is

'What

it,Tibia

is it?

what

"

cried,springingforward.
Drawing his knife he cut
sitting
posture.

The

girl
"

where

of
of

is she?'

he

Tibia burst into

"

her

bonds, and raised

of

paroxysm

grief.

'

Oh

her into

brother,brother

dead, dead !'

'Who

cried
'

'

where

the

girl
furiously.
"

No,

no

Did

I not

"

Neaera?

Masthlion

"

Don't

my

say

husband

"

they have

taken

her

away.'

he

!'

return
never
say he would
of the furies?'
is she, in the name

'Gone

that,woman!'

But

the

girl
"

CHAP.

xxn.

With

cry

up his arms.
His face

TALE

ANCIENT

OF

like the

howl

purple;

wild

341

threw

beast,Cestus

plain.

Everythingwas
grew

of

ROME

the veins swelled

like

cords, and

his eyes glared with an

insane fire. His tongue found vent
in a torrent of mad
panied
accomravingsand horrid imprecations,
with the wildest gestures, till the heart-stricken woman
herself forgother own
anguishfor the moment, and shuddered
in horror.
When
his
A

itself he turned
exhausted
to
partially
had passed.
a recital of what
hoarselydemanded

the fit had

and
sister,

and she threw her apron

sufficed,

few words

and

rocked
The

For

fixed

herself

and

to

the floor.

he rushed

head,

fro.

bluster of the tempest was

moment
Cestus remained

on

her

over

over, and

silence succeeded.

meditation,with his eyes

bidding her not to quit the house,

Then

in

headlong into

out

the Marina.

Here,

the street,and rapidly

toward
ran
with much
for few people were
difficulty,

he satisfiedhimself that no party had landed or embarked,

astir,
track he sought to discover.
at all answering to those whose
he hurried to the posting-house
in the town, where he
Thence
was
justas unsuccessful. Sustained and spurred on by terrible
excitement,he ran out to the very outskirts of the town, tillhe
reached
a
tavern, standingon the side of the road which led
from the southern coast.
Here he was
well known, the establishment
He
being a favourite port of call in his rambles.
called the landlord
aside,who looked with surpriseon his
customer's

disordered

aspect.

In

to

answer

the Suburan's

youth was summoned, who was employed in

outdoor
jobs about the premises,which included
a

of

farm

intense
at

well

as

the

the

as

delightof

his

business

of the
note
particular
party led by Plautus.
informed
'

the

them.
not

about

It is

as

six horsemen

lad

Tibia

island,and

It is all

listen to

over

me,

remained
back
with

would

'

small

loitering
had

taken

had

who

Giving the

all kinds

lad,to the

been

composed the
coin,Cestus briefly

of the outrage and went

back
I said it would
be !' he burst out
as

where

the

have

and
nightfall,

the master

room

from

house

The

tavern.

questioner,
proved to

of the

entrance

of

quiries
in-

gang

home.
he

of Caesar's

entered
rascals

they have gone, taking her with

You would
her,and I am ruined.
they would have been
you not ?
"

NEMRA

342

PART

of their prey if you had.

'
Fools ! fools ! fools !
the wisest !

Now

cheated

with excitement

Pale

for his

save

he

heavy breathing,deep

terrible silence of desolation and

It

of

the

on

silence

who

fell

was

and,
floor,
all

on

"

the

woe.

dismal,weird scene, lightedby the dull,smoky

of two
chests littered the
rude lamp. The contents
homely linen and wearing apparel,togetherwith
housewife.
The
odds and ends stored by a thrifty
a

was

flame

himself

threw

know

you

n.

floor with
numberless

The
overturned.
simple articles of furniture were
awry and
lyingface downwards, half upon
broad, burlyform of the man
half upon
the floor; the woman
the pile of bedding and
crouching beside the naked palletbed, with her head bowed
upon her knees.
hair had escaped from

Two

down

the wreck

amidst

She

most

was

be

to

pitied.

child,and sat, an agingwoman,

of her home, which had hitherto bounded

lost her husband

had

She

thin gray
looselydown

her

of

and hung
fastening,

claspedhands.
tightly

her

over

their

locks

three

or

and

thoughts.
The
ghostly,unutterable stillness long continued,and the
life was
the smoky yellow
to have
only thing which seemed
of air
and flared in the currents
flame of the lamp, as it waved
which came
PresentlyCestus turned
through the open door.
He directed his gaze toward the
with a sighand sat up.
over
and his eyes filled with an unaccustomed
motionless form of his sister,
her lifeand

compassion.
Long years ago, when,

as

youth,he

left his father's cottage,

tune
of some
misdeed, to go and seek his forconsequence
to
the last one
been
this sister had
in the great city,
give him tearful farewell words of hope and encouragement.
in

stillbrightin his memory.

standing in the middle of the sunlit

That

scene

kissed

him, waving her hand

view.

her from
and

worn,

pure

The

was

There

she

And

broken-hearted.

kiss and

warm

tears

now

was

fell on

road, where

turned

he

as

"

pretty maiden

the bend

she

had

which

hid

old, faded,wrinkled,toil-

he, since that day when

his beardless

face

her

"

head, and restinghis chin on his hand

staringat vacancy.
his knee, he remained
and his elbow on
with
of abstraction,
He
might have been a stony embodiment
He

turned away

his

lustreless
widely-distended,

eyes which

stared

as

if frozen in

CHAP.

grim despair. Such

Nearly half
The

face.

expressionDante

an

troops of the infernal

the sombre

among

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

TALE

xxn.

passed;

hour

an

of

sound

343

might have
regions.

Tibia

then

raised her
below

footstep in the passage

figured
wan

struck

from the foot

and finally,
irresolutely,
a
subdued, yet anxious voice callingupon
of the stairs,
came
of Nesera.
the name
Startingat the tones Tibia gave a low
But he
her brother.
cry, and turned her eyes anxiouslyon
and
buried in a lethargy,
seemingly oblivious of everything.
was
her

on

It moved

ears.

her

She, therefore,bowed
with
a

the

same

motion.

weary

little louder,but

call

The

up the stairs and entered the

polishedcuirass crossed the tranced

The

bounding

room.

eyes
looked

the

broke

Martialis
brows

He
spellwhich bound him.
standingbefore him, regardingthe

and

With

seized the

welcome!'

'Welcome!

few

of
glitter

and

of Cestus

scene

beheld

and

up

with knitted

to describe,the Suburan
impossible
yellof delight,

leaped to his feet,and

grip.
in the desert.

water

came

astonishment.

utter
a

step

self
her-

repeated

was

reply being vouchsafed,

no

rocked

again,and

face

he
is

Here

Centurion's

cried

wildly.

pretty business

hand

in

vulsive
con-

'Welcome
within

as

the last

'

only yourselfcan rightit !

Martialis looked on the crouching form of Tibia.
is Nesera
what has happened ?' he said hurriedly.
Where
hours

"

it is

'

"

here, and has upset the

gang of cut-throats has been
'
house, and carried away the girl
the young
here like a stock !' thundered
'And
you sitting
to
there no
in a frenzy. ' Were
neighbours to rouse
man
'

could

help,if you
house
Where

in

peaceful town

is her

here idle and

father

"

that

whence

come

her

followingon

"

useless !

Thieves

not

steal maidens
such

from

villains here ?

track, while

you

sit

'

him by the arm

he
said Cestus,seizing
as
Stop,Centurion,'
was
turningto dash out of the house, you are all wrong together.
harbour
There is only one spot in the neighbourhood which can
kidnappersand the like. I was absent at the time, and if I had
'

'

been

here

I could

'

Name, then

'

Capreae
"

that is for you

with contempt.
cried Martialis,

not
'

Caesar

have

'

followed

"

to

do.'

NE"RA

344

The

stared

man

young

his

fell heavilyto

arm

breast with
'

Did

by

go

way once
watch two

fellows

no

his head

run

with

outstretched
head

beseech

his

on

them

to

giving

Did

to

be found

of

listen.

would

one

no

knees, for them to quit

Rome, where they might be
my

to

Not

And

they !

the island himself

tiger's
very jaws ;

newfangled kind

some

on

listen.

take off

into the

But

me

would

none

"

needs

must

potter

back

to go

But

'

beseeched, almost

"

and

warn

of

I knew

"

not

n.

I not see
and
passion.
in the shop some
days ago? They
mark
to
down
island,and they came

here

I knew

place

safe.

petrified.His
he dropped his

Cestus, wringinghis hands and

burst

the accursed

their game.
begged and
the

cried

to

more

from

were

did I

"

advice?'

my

if

as

side, and

groan.
foresee it

not

i"ART

glasshe

all for the sake

had

found

needs

must

"

the

ing
of showAs

out.

if no

ing
ravishbloody,strangling,
tyrant ! The fool would not listen to what I said,though I
went
nearlycrazy, but went on his mad way with a lightheart,
if one could judge by his smilingface. And
here's the end of it.
He will never
his home
the girlis
see
again he is murdered
and I am
missing,
robbed,ruined,cheated ! Haste, Centurion,
for all depends on thee.
Bring her back,by hook or crook, for

patron

to

was

other than

then

"

"

hark you, man, she is more

cian
than you think
she is of the Patrisister'schild than you are
order,and no more
my
said Martialis hoarsely.
'Are you going mad?'
"

'

Mad

advice

"

!' shouted

no

all would

have

'

Cestus

been

well

had

now,

they taken

madman's

the wench

and

her

on

She is no
potter'schild,for I
way to her people in Rome.
hold the proofs. There was
paid,I tell you, to put the
money
child out of the way ; but instead of murder
she was
brought
here

quietlyand no
passed for her

has
at

the bottom

wiser,save

the

one

mother

not

no,

"

over

'

'

stricken face, I
his

never

had

softened,and

lips againsther

agony

the

toTibia and laid his hand

'Mother,' he said,'have you

Yes,' said the poor woman,
eyes

there,who

woman

villain who

was

of it all.'

Martialis strode

His

even

the

of tears.

heard

her shoulder.

this?'

looking

child of my

on

up

with

forehead.

woe-

own.'

suddenly bending down,

withered

her

She

he

burst

pressed
into

an

TALE

xxn.

CHAP.

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

345

bring her back,'she moaned.

It is too strange ; but gentle or simple she is stillNeaera
to
dagger
me.
Oh, the accursed
tyrant I shall bury my
in
if they rend me
in his foul heart if she be harmed
even
piecesafter ! But I may yet save her, though I strike her dead
'

her back

Bring

"

'

"

"

to

do it
"

He

'
yet be in time !
yes, I may
laughed a short dry laugh,and

lightas he flung his long

impede his motions.
Tell Caesar she belongs to the

terrible
to

'

'

will not dare

He

recks

He

to

harm

her

"

less

Rome,' said

I will hasten

city.'

to the
'

nothing,idiot her family,quick !

of the Janiculum is her grandsire

of

'Fabricius

with

aside,the

in

best blood

'

Cestus.

shone

his eyes
heavy cloak

"

she

"

has

only him.'
'

Fabricius !

lost

He

child

is this

"

'

true

'

'As you stand there !

'
all this ? '
And
how came
you to know
'
I who
stole her
Simply because it was

brought

her here

Dog, if this be
grasping his throat
That

you

is likewise

"'

deed

Money

"

"

Centurion

and

her.

You

possessed you

now

to

bring her

I would

gloriousrevenge

It

losingtime

are

do

such

heartless

back

to

the

living

'

'

further

Hark'ee,'said

and

concern,

mine

Come,

only.

haste,

who

must

parley Martialis sprang to the door.

there
Cestus, again catching his arm,
'

never

the proper time arrives,

or
'
Beware, therefore !

whispered in his
surprise.Then he dashed
He

'

sputtered Cestus.

'

Without

man

and

the rest will follow.'

demon

is my

'That

one

and

of iron.

hand

restore

can

him

'

for revenge
'
On whom

'

on
Martialis,
springing

see,'choked

I who

Villain,what
?

'

with

her firstand

save

"

'
! cried

true

shall

only

Tibia.

to

'

'

child and

she knows.'

"

nodded

Cestus

as

know

what

else it

ear

down

and

I have

might
the

go

told

hard

Pretorian

the stairs and

is

out

until
you
with the girl.
started

with

of the house.

XXIII.

CHAPTER

the

who,
MARTIALIS,
returning from
as

in the town,

very few minutes.

of the fresh steed he clattered through the
to

the limits of

open,
all his

With
there

left

was

tracted
con-

the back

on

streets, and,

road, flew along at

on

frightful
speed.
headlong race,

his

on

of

change

feverish haste

narrow

energiesconcentrated
no
opportunityfor the

perceived,

last

Leaping

moonlit

gainingthe

his

his

operationwhich

an

have

may

made

Rome,

was

horses

reader

consideration

of

any
One

method, by which to attain his object.

hope panted in his breast,that they,who had carried
supreme
off his beloved, might have loitered on the way, and that thus

specialplan

lie

might

have

or

time

to

close with

them

their

that satisfaction !

Oh, that he might have

end.
journey's

they reached

ere

on
savagely at the thought his brain was
The
fire !
league
fatigueof a long day's incessant galloping,
unfelt and
after league, was
strung
forgotten. Excitement
the
intense
his nerves
to
an
pitch, and he scarcely knew
his flyinghorse's
of whip and
he made
use
pitiless
spur on

chuckled

He

"

sides.
raced

He
to

catch

but

he

the
was

terminated

which

his ride

rose

An
involuntarygroan
gladden his eyes.
lips. Confidence and hope died away, and

doggedness

menials

of

took

root.

Half

score

Caesar, beyond the immediate

in the vast

finger,he heeded not ; but

thronging guards and slaves,what
faint hope left. There
yet remained

burned

blind
half

beck

to

desperation
a

hundred

of the

There

league of

his

from

tyrant's

palace yonder,

then ?

see,

building
nothing more

broke

"

ahead

The

him, and

before

to

and

strained

along,with his eyes fixed and

welcome
sight of the group he
fated to bitter disappointment.

with

still

was

sea

its

to

cover

OHAP.

before

l^ALE

xxin.

gainingthose

OF

ANCIENT

ROME

347

rocks, which

accursed

lay far

in dim

out

outline.
He

leaped

astonishment
with

care,

drooping

head

the

and

ground,

the foam-covered

at

its

the

to

animal

glanced in
grooms
he quitted to their

tremblinglimbs, its

and

flanks

dropping blood.
'

The

Centurion

Yes ; some
island,but they must
A

landed

have

in

his

brain

where
landing-place,

for immediate

hand

Martialis

to have

taken

the

for the

information.

hastened

With

forward

for courier service

boat

boat

ridden

this.'

ere

meaning laugh accompanied

distraction

at

slaves had

of Caesar's

fast.

so

serious business

have

must

kept

ever

was

the

to

use.

happened, however, that the crew, probablytempted by

all on
the spot, as
not
brilliant night,were
they ought

It

the

been, but

have

to

had

rambled

off here

and

in

there

the

ficed
moonlight. A very few minutes would, doubtless,have sufall together,but
the Pretorian's
to
to
bring them
unbearable.
fevered mind
the delay was
Sweeping his glance
around, he perceiveda lightskiff drawn up on the shore at a
There

littledistance.

it,and

thought he

to

it down

water.

sprang
into the

the frailvessel

in it ; and without a second

puttingforth his strengthpushed

oars

were

The

the calm

over

next
sea

at

he

moment
a

rate

pulling
surelynever
was

it had

travelled before.

tough oars bent with the mighty strokes. Each time

they gripped the water the lightbark seemed to leap forward,
rolled in heavy drops from the stern brow
and the perspiration
terrible; but yet the powerful
The exertion was
of the rower.
of their strength,
relaxed an
the stroke
nor
ounce
never
arms
The

second

the

boat

of its time, nor

into

flew round

inch of its sweep,

tillthe bow of
little bay of the Marina
the narrow
an

upon the pebbly beach.

Dropping the oars, Martialis leaped ashore and
to
steep path which climbed the terrace-like ascent
of

Capreae, and

above, leaving the

to

wonder

and

hard

ran

astonished

speculateat

guardians of

the unusual

the

method

ran

up

the

the

village
landing-place

and

haste

of

his arrival.
To

the labour

legs,and

he

of his

arms

now

succeeded

possessed the swiftest foot

in the

the

trial of his

legion.

NE"RA

348
his left

On
which

the

Prefect

conical

the

arose

PART

in
hill,topped by the villa,

established.

was

n.

he

Here

should

have

despatches he
doubled
claimed the least thought. He
carried for him, now
the narrow
lanes leadingto
and threaded
the base of the hill,
in a
the villa Jovisabove, with a stride which brought him
he thought
close to the outer
gate. Here
very few minutes
his pace
best to moderate
to
a
rapid walk, and in this gait
this man
he learned
reached
the Pretorian on
guard. From
that

half

half

an

neither

but

stopped ;

hour

commander,

slaves,with

dozen

his

the

nor

female, had

passed

previously.He

entered
entered

and

on

about
the

palace.
within

Where
to

came

its fatal
within

stand

the

she hidden

was

recesses

passage, whilst fiery

Beyond he could hear

of

gloom

thoughts flashed through his mind.

It
of hurrying menials.
the sound
what

should

Prefect

was

supping
"

The

Oh, that he

had

had

own

arm

and

would

supper
burst forth

all

to

on

trust

in his agony
only discover where
But

way to
itself intricate ;

labyrinthof

subterranean
To

follow to

the bowels

Prefect,

late.

too

The

After

drops

of mind.
she

placed,it would
combined, would

was

force,or both

which

that his

the

was

be

great.

was

sacrifice.

the

come

hard, but that cunning,or

another

might

It

his brow

bringhim to her.
of the palace was

for

hour

this,so

ere

Where

to

cause

like would

If he could
go

with the wretches

met

most

his influence

friend,and

he stir in his

the

Caesar's

was

he do ?
his

been

He

away

turn

The

superstructure

underneath, he

which

much

few had

of the rocks

knew,
of

was

was

ledge.
knowno

more

than to find the object of his search where he

consequence
stood, since escape from either spot was
hopelesswithout the
his utmost
hope.
tyrant'swill. To gain her side was now
he

Could

vengeance.
These

image

of

with the
He
their

and

few moments
Neaera

sweet

in his

clasp her

unsullied

her

save

but

rose

breath

felt that

his

scabbards,then

to

arm,

put himself

he

had

the

beyond

means

to

the reach

of

passed,during which the

his mind, in painfuldistinctness,
on
of her calm beauty and purity.
of reflection

short

sword

entered

the

and

poniardwere

before
peristyle

him.

loose in

CHAP.

TALE

xxin.

Silver lamps shed

OF

ANCIENT

ROME

349

brilliant

lighton the polishedmarble

gilded fretwork of ceilingand

pillarand

floor,on the
the dancing,diamond-flashing
cornice,the panelled pictures,
of the fountain in the midst.
waters
the doorways
Among
which
the
court
was
one
opened on
heavily curtained.
Domestics
and
and
the prepassed in and out ever
anon,
sence
of

the

of
Caesar

his

perceivedwith

troop, and
himself
drew

own

Pretorian

went

that

commander

man

was

one

immediately.

saluted, but

The

without

not

aspect his officer presented.

he, concluding that the

'

evidence

was

him

to

up
and

back, Centurion

Welcome

said

it

before

satisfaction that this

up
glance at the unusual

curious
'

stationed

within.

was

Martialis
of

soldier

the

!
"

Prefect

objectof the

is

within,'

not

the

aide-de-campwas

himself.

then ? '
Where
'At his house for

'

Maybe

'

he awaits

with

see

can

anythingthat
there,for

me

own

my

eyes

can

this

Centurion.'
tell,
night I was due.'
have

you

travelled

hard,

Centurion.'
is within ? '

'

Who

'

Caesar

'

Know

supping with
which

you

his friends.'

friends ?

'

'Flaccus, Marinus, Priscus, the

and
philosophers,

the

lady,'repliedthe legionary.

Roman

three

The

first named

third of whom

have

we

Martialis knew

to be

forehead.

The

slaves,who

idled here

companions of Tiberius,the
The
Roman
alreadyknown.
lady
were

Plautia.

questionwas

the

and

He
as

there

passed his

useless

as

in twos

hand

the

and

across

answer.

threes about

his
The
the

natural

of household
and
secrets
repositories
tattle. He
eyed them and gnawed his nether lip.
Have
you been in the palacelong ? he asked again.
I have wellnighworn
out my
spellof duty, I should say,
Centurion
hither from his dressingat least I brought Caesar

court,

were

'

'

'

"

room.'
'Tell me, Asca,'said Martialis,
dropping his voice, 'since
have
been
here within-doors,have
heard
or
seen
you
you
of Caesar's slaves bearingwith
anything of the arrival of some
them

woman

"

young

girl?

'

NE^ERA

350

'Only

few

marshalled

'

Ah, and she ?

'

which

"

there now.'

the young man, with

recoil a step. ' What was

demanded

the soldier

caused

to

that she

moreover,'quoth
'

taller than

was

the

that all ?

Was

common

her

"

face

surprisedAsca.
Was
there nothing

well shrouded

was

said ?

?
Can
tell me
they came
you
looks,her voice,dress,or anythingto guide me
Well, she seemed
very unwilling
; and

and

demanded

slaves who

along

with

came

Did

you not
nothing of her
?

'

when

'

came

that is
entrance, Plautus
along with her,sent in Caesar's

the word

energy
she like

heed, except

any

whence

hear

an

'

Quick, Asca, speak !

'Truly, Centurion, I scarce
gave her

her appearance

"

"

which

Surrentum, upon

they
of

one

first
the

signetring,

Zeno

came

out

'

and

!
Stop,Centurion,stop
But Martialis had disappearedthrough the curtains
was
and,
electrical,
doorway. The word Surrentum

bound, he
a

n.

steward,
ago, Zeno, the worshipful
into Caesar's presence
they had a

minutes

couple such
them, and they are

with

woman

PART

was

gone,

ere

his amazed

subordinate

could

of the
with

move

muscle.
curtains closed

Double
few

the

feet of

around
in the

forming
the

brief

midst,on exactlythe
and

stood

spot where

same

supper-room,
kind
of antechamber.

innermost

second, whilst he cast

the brilliant chamber.
Yes, there was

for

father had
master

aside

dashed

the

to

entrance

interveningspace

Martialis
halted

the

draperyand
flashingglance
Neaera standing

her ill-fatedfoster-

before,a target for each rude, pitiless

gaze of

slave alike.

She

was

to the

drawn

full

height of

face,as pale as death,

bent
was
undauntedly on the opposing visage of Tiberius.
of the latter was
The
seeminglycold and impassive.
expression
Plautia,recliningat his righthand, gazed with an exultant
critical and
glance and flushed cheeks ; the others were
Plautus and
of the captivegirlwas
amused.
On either hand
her

and
tall,supplefigure,

her

comrade, with their fierce

eyes

noble

riveted

on

Tiberius,oblivious

Behind
the Imperial couch
motion.
slightest
watchful of everything.
stood the handsome
steward,intently
loaded with its gorgeous
in the midst,was
The
supper-table,
service of gold and silver plate,whilst the attendants around
of all

save

his

CHAP.

the

xxin.

TALE

OF

ROME

ANCIENT

351

rupting
apartment had stayed their stealthy
steps, fearful of interthe

sound.
slightest

with the

scene

Neaera
was
They said my father had need of me
dying,'
was
sayingin a clear,firm voice,when her glance,in common
with the rest, was
drawn
by a stir at the doorway. The
through
gleam of a corslet filled her eyes, breakingviolently
'

"

the

round

of slaves

cluster

aside

ship dashes

Neaera

"

clearer

Close

sea.

arms.

side

her

at

his left

rudelyback, cast
to

the prow
of
With a tremulous

as

here !'

am

reached

He

entrance,

billows of the

the

cry she held forth her

'
Lucius ! '
'

the

stride,and, thrustingPlautus

around

arm

her and

lifted her away

space.

on

his heels

the terror-stricken Pretorian

rushed
his

guard, and

a
Plautus, on
part, made
savage
Both, however, had the discretion

retaliation.

on

gesture of
hesitate

to

fieryglance of the Centurion and a stillmore

ficant
signimotion
of his righthand to his belt.
her lover ; I know
Courage, my Nezera,'murmured
all,
and have followed
thee from these pitiless
to save
wretches,
whose foul touch is worse
than death.
Only one escape from
before the

'

'

dishonour
He

is left to thee now, dear love.'

his poniard from his belt and
drew

placed it in

her

hand.
She

took

it,and

held

her

up

face

to

his with

ineffable

an

smile.
'

They

He
which

shall

not

part

kissed her
followed

now.'

us

and
lips,

his

looked

calmlyon the
into
extraordinary
interruption

of the
presence
A
cries broke
forth.

Confused

Emperor.
convulsive

excitement
the

exclamations

movement

ran
a

sudden

wind.

on

the

garb, the
flushed and
name

and

stared

with

splendid form,
damp

with

the

extreme

of Martialis flew from

Under

the

one

the

wing and eye

indignantexpressionsof
loud,but,beyond these

astonishment

and

through

throng like the tossingof forest boughs in

Each

able
inviolthe

gust of
Pretorian

dark, stern, handsome

face,

exertion

The

and

emotion.

lipto lip.
of their Imperialpatron himself,
his shocked

creatures

safe demonstrations

were

of

many

justresent-

NEJS.RA

352

PART

ii.

unparalleledaudacityof the intruder,there

forcible
seemed
to be no
dispositionto proceed to a more
who
had
proof of their zeal. An armed, desperate man,
and athletes
with the firstgladiators
than held his own
more
of the capital,
not
to be rashlyinterfered with.
was
Thus
the clatter of tongues and
perturbationof gesture
the

of

ment

eddied

and

within its

tossed

agitatedcircle

own

for

of the

overflowingtoward the tall person

stood confrontingthem, motionless,
yet

without

moments,

offender,who
with
and resolute,

girl.
'Yes, they are

his left

ful
watch-

the waist of

round

thrown

arm

few

the young

it will
begin they know
Martialis grimly,with vigilant
eyes
hitch
his
belt
of
which
a meaning

hurry

no

dear,'muttered

them

cost

in

to

"

those nearest
him, and
brought his sword hilt nigherto his hand.

on

him

From

to

his attitude

recovered

astonishment

and

and

alarm.

which

lowering look,

no

all

Tiberius

glances roved.

his first start

from
composure
On his countenance
who

one,

had

rested

him,

knew

of

dark,

without

saw

uneasiness.

vague

instructions

Asca, whose
was

one,

Caesar

the most

to

be

without

were

pitied.

shook

He

visage,full of consternation,hovered
On the former he
and his Emperor.

to
privilege

with

dread,and

his Centurion

between
bent

any
his

reproachfulglances,

whilst the aspect of the latter filled him with terror.

'
fault of mine,'he broke
So please you, Caesar, it was
no

out, after the firstfew moments

The
Centurion will bear me
'

guard
'

to

it was

ere

The

man

blame.

claim

her.

is my

This

maiden

She

has been

you, Caesar, of
back again.'
conduct
leant

witness,that

over

betrothed

dying away.

were

broke

he

to prevent him.'
possible
said Martialis calmly;
is right,'

I pray

Zeno

of confusion

'

past my

he is in

bride

"

no

come

way
to

dragged from her home by ruffians.

give her safe
your clemency, to let me

his

master

and

whispered in

his

ear.

The

quit the face of Tiberius,but he appeared to

reflect. Martialis perceivedthe hesitation and took heart.
said
of making your request,'
have a strange method
You
the Emperor, with sardonic slowness,in the deep silence which
Until this
immediatelyreigned at the sound of his voice.

frown

did

not

'

'

CHAT.

TALE

xxin.

OF

ROME

ANCIENT

353

When
thought the privacyof my room
my own.
Pretorian officers set the example of breaking orders and
it is time I saw
to their discipline
regulations,
over-riding
Deliver up your arms, and
myself. I will begin with you.
place yourself in the custody of the guard, awaitingmy
pleasure.'
The Emperor signedto the soldier Asca to enforce these
I

moment

commands, but, ere he moved, Martialis retired farther back

with Neaera, until he reached
the corner
of the room.
By
this

into the empty angle he brought all

movement
strategic
his expected assailants more
in front, and, thereby,vastly
strengthenedhis position.
I crave
your pardon, Caesar,for what must
appear an
unseemly intrusion into the privacyof your apartment, and
'

nothingbut
have

driven
'

pray

be

to

me

presence,'said
mien.

bitter circumstances

the

the

guiltyof

would
of my case
such disregard of

Centurion, with
consider

you,

my

your
resolute

respectfulbut
position. I

ever

bear

to

the

Prefect

the
at
despatches from
Rome, and have
camp
with barely a stop.
galloped since early dawn
Flinging
horse
brief
from
at
myself
Surrentum, for a few
minutes,
my
at the house
of my
betrothed,I found it had been the spoil
of ruffians.

I have

hither without

hastened

to a
every-dayrules and customs
with grief? Nothing could

Caesar, and

I entreat

her go, I beseech

you
She

not

Centurion
'

'

'

touched

me

nearer,

"

"

have

givenoffence

nature.

It is not

"

it would
much

thy

stay,then,to deliver your despatchesto the

said Tiberius.

They

are

Another

The

not

you
'

the errand
'

have

is distraught

asks,and he has served thee well.'

Did

Prefect ?

brain

are

your indulgence your pardon. Let

I doubt
the slaves have made
not

cannot
grave error.
be possiblefor her sweet

some

"

whose

man

what

stop

here in my

belt.'

duty disregarded the

upon.'
"

first care

of

courier is

he is

Prefect will bear

his service
"

I have

ever

witness
willing

of my

the favour of his choice

in
diligence
for the

same

errand,'said Martialis.
'

Deliver up your

take him

and

lead

weapons,'said Tiberius harshly. Guard,

him away.'
'

NE^ERA

3$4
c

'

He

You

certain

to

comes

never

Excitement
turbulent

weight

sea,

commotion

and

dear

you

energy.
you shall

"

like a
again shook the room
gatheredsufficient cohesion and

yet stillit never

propel itself

to

death,'said Martialis with

but it will cost

me,
may overpower
alive.'
take us

n.

PART

into the

againstthe

corner

resolute

bent on
the luckless Pretorian
eyes were
Asca, whose glance,in turn, hung on Caesar's with a piteous
beings
expression. With the selfish satisfaction which human

form

there.

view

the

All

misfortune

soldier

another, the

of

assailed

was

all the
with cries of encouragement and censure, which
came
he acted as a
more
freelyfrom the lipsof those for whom
of sacrifice.

kind

Centurion,you
tones, give up your
'

hear ! ' he said to Martialis

sword

'

I will not,
self-defence.'
'

'

compel him,'thundered

Then

strike !

by

the

and

his

levelled

Martialis evaded

Emperor

the

same

back

the

his back.

Jt

astonishing
power
slave Plautus
been

had

done

was

and

excited

by the
tion,
despera-

excellent

him

threw

and
soldier,
in

ease

with his

he thrust the lance

movement,

sprawling

time, and

second

of

it gave

what

the

for
opportunity

with

attentive

interference.

nighestof all,with
lingering
of the

Centurion.

As

He
Asca, he therefore sprang forward.
and, had he been able
man,

the eye of a lynx on

the latter closed with
was

to

largeand
out

fully-built
power-

tion
his inten-

carry
his
w
ith
officer
off
the
guard,the latter
grappling
young
smothered
by
probably have been entangledand finally

numbers.
a

'

strike,
man,

his teeth in blind

set

but
celerity,

thought an

the movements

by

'

With
consummate
spear.
thrust,and grasped the weapon

Continuing the
athwart the body of

would

refuses !

heavy

hands.

of

He

somewhat

voice,and

the terrible

others,the Pretorian

cries of the

He

'

Caesar.

in

'

Thrilled

on

if I hurt you

me
Asca, and do you forgive

looked again to
legionary

The

beseeching

wills.'

Caesar

as

in

But

quick as

the slave's movement

brief second, for he

As

the

swerved, as swift

unexpected

blow

had

soldier Asca
as

and
light,

been
went
met

of his clenched

was,

it was

late

pected.
closelywatched and sussprawlingback, Martialis

his
fist.

new

No

assailant with

an

affection
friendly

xxin.

CHAP.

ANCIENT

OF

TALE

ROME

355

tempered the stroke,as in the case of

shot out like
Asca, but, on the contrary, his long sinewy arm
and struck the on-coming slave off his feet.
a battering-ram,
for

comrade-in-arms

The

dash and

something like
the

of the

tone

of the young officer seemed

revolution of feelingin his favour,to
prowess

exclamations

which

broke

forth

at

to arouse

judge by
his feat.

lEuge!y of approval might have

His reputation
been heard.
was
general,but Asca, alone of
him
discomfit a boxer of the amphiall present, had
theatres
seen
by a similar blow, dealt for the honour of the Legion
amid
in the camp
the delightedyellsof packed
at Rome,
Even

half-stifled excited

thousands
The

of his comrades.
senseless Plautus

crushed

lifted and

was

carried out

with

face

with
disfiguredfor life. Martialis,

and

still undrawn, fell back

to

his former

his weapon
position.The slender

glidedinto his,and he claspedthem tight.

Hark
! he said to her,as the raised tones
of Tiberius
haste for a file of Pretorians,'twill be no more
bade
them
child's play would it had been with others than my own
rades.
comBut courage, my
Nesera ! Shelter yourselfbehind me,
fingersof

Neaera
'

'

'

"

and

when

tomb

fall,
you know

for such
'

you than
father and

as

Alas, my

nestled

; better the
your weapon
the pollution
of these walls.'

how

to use

mother

!'

she

murmured,

as

she

closer to his side.

posed,
glanced quicklyinto her face,and saw that it was comthough pale. No trace of fear trembled on the tender
curving lips,or dwelt in the calm clear eyes which rested
New-born
of heroism
figured
transqualities
devotedly upon him.
her, and clothed her with a new
beauty. The routine
life had never
of her humble
lightedher fair face with such- an
brief glance filled
That
unexpected spiritof dauntlessness.

He

his heart with

pride and

him

with the

rapture such

as

he

never

felt before,

Her
unruffled
strengthof a Titan.
with the partingwords of Cestus, and
mien flooded his mind
but noble blood could
he thrilled with joy. Surely,none
so
nobly withstand such a terrible test. It was a melancholyjoy,
however, despairingand fierce as it was fleet.
reared his head, and bent his eyes upon
the throng
He
before him with infinite prideand contempt.
The dark deep
him from beneath
the shadow
orbs of the Emperor shone upon
and

nerved

NE^"RA

356
of their knitted

PART

their gaze

brows, but he returned

n.

disdainfully.

beyond their vengeance.

his gaze rested on the
the ghastlyvisageof Caesar
From
flushed countenance
and
loveliness of Plautia,whose
warm
Her
sparkling
eyes betrayedthe excited conflict of her mind.
soldier's manly beauty,
yet unconquered love of the young
the sting
blown into fresh flame by the exhibition of his power
effect of her plot,mingled with
of remorse
at the unlooked-for
and the bitter spectacle
savage envy at the sightof her rival,
of their mutual
devotion,were
riotingin her breast. His
glance was cold and contemptuous, as it was passingand brief,
felt himself

He

"

stung her soul

and

The

messenger
few moments,

only a
suddenly.
to

to madness.

despatchedfor

the anxious

when

came
eager light
whisperin the Emperor's ear.
a

the

An

in

few words

huge

Nubian

the Pretorians had

reply.

The

servant, and

brows

of Zeno

sped away
contracted

into his eyes, and he stooped

Tiberius nodded, and muttered
touched

Greek

they

the elbow

hurried

both

of

swiftlyout

of the apartment.
Martialis saw

had no
He
them, but gave them no heed.
further hopes, fears,nor
suspicions. His sole object,in what

remainingminutes of his career,

to sell his life as
was
dearlyas possible.In expectationof
the slaves had imperceptibly
the coming struggle,
edged away
with
his vicinity,
and
from
were
waiting
suspense.
uneasy
he considered

The

guests

their peace,
them
upon
of the

to

be the few

table,with askant glances at

fidgetedas though he might,at
whilst
with a furious onslaught,
at

Emperor's eyes,

attempt

at

the

on

other

the
any
the

disturber

of

time, burst
stern

glitter

hand, discouraged any

at the
Asca, the guard, remained
held his lance at the advance, and his face was

interference.

doorway. He
dejectedand chopfallenin the extreme.
Rapid thoughts sped through the
if he were
What
surveyed the scene.
before the arrival of his comrades

mind
to

of Martialis

as

he

the offensive

assume

thereby better
his position
Had
he been
?
alone, his fleet foot by a quick
carried him free from the palaceto the
have easily
dash would
It was
such an act was
But
boats.
impossiblewith Neaera,
the craven, naked
flock before him,
he might fall upon
true
and

turn

the

room

into

shambles.

Would

But

he

such

butchery

CHAP.

TALE

xxni.

OF

ANCIENT

ROME

357

nothing; and to leave the side of Neaera for

instant would
be to endanger her.
an
No, he would meet
his fate honestly,
and not like a reckless murderous
desperado.
Once
he appealed to Tiberius.
more
'Will you not send for the Prefect?' he said; 'his presence
intercede
with
and
gain your gracious
might
you,
clemency for his unfortunate Centurion and this blameless
would

avail him

maiden.
brave

will avail

Force
men

for us,

as

"

nothing,but
shall

we

sacrifice of

the
be

never

some

parted alive,be

assured.'
Caesar

But

nothing; neither did any motion

he paid the least attention to
it seemed, on
fixed intently,
as

answered

that
expressionbetoken
words.
His glance was
wall,or rather the long curtains
the Centurion

for

Martialis

distance

some

forebore

arrived.

moment

which

draped

harness,filed into the

room,

with their
flashing

and

the

either hand.

on

ere
long the
say more, and
feet was
rapid tread of many
curtains of the door, and some

through the half-drawn

fifteen Pretorians,
fullyarmed,

the

the wall behind

critical

to

The

or

headed

by

the

heard
ten

or

polished

bulky Centurion

Macro.
came
legionaries

The

their faces,and

their

to

halt, with

with
officer,

his eyes on Caesar for his orders.

Martialis silently
stooped and
Then

he

slowlydrew

his sword

less

no

blank

on

astonishment,turned

kissed

from

wonder

Neaera

his

the

on

sheath,and

lips.

gravely

saluted his comrades.

'

refuses to surrender

said Tiberius to Macro,

himself,'
without removing his eyes from Martialis;I have sent for you
him
if possible;if not, dead.'
to secure
alive,
The task was
repugnant from every pointof view,and the
showed
it by the want
in the
of alacrity
and spirit
legionaries
the mandate.
to carry out
But to
preparations
they made
hear was
to
obey,and Macro, who, perhaps,felt less scruple
than the rank and file,
in consequence
of a jealousy
of Martialis,
He

'

"

desired
'

the latter to deliver up his weapon.

Come
and take it,'
said Martialis ;
Our

terms.

dreamt

fellowshipis fated

of; blame

betrothed

me

hither from

not, but
her home

to

end

those
"

'

these

in

who

I will not

have

are

way

my
we

only
never

dragged
give her up.'

my

NEMRA

358
The
broke

faces of the

from

their

n.

darkened,and dissatisfiedmutterings

men

lips.

for their work

PART

The

order to draw

in line and

up

pare
pre-

and slowly. Martialis

obeyed sullenly
was
popular,and his words and positioninspiredthem with
additional sympathy.
Do as ye are bid,'cried Martialis,
the signsof
as he noted
dissatisfaction; nought else will avail.'
was

'

'

But,

their ringers

as

tightenedon their weapons,

of affairs.
changed the position

occurrence

Caesar's eyes
at

the back

were

still riveted

of the Centurion's

on

an

the curtain which

beleagueredcorner.

As

looked-for
un-

hung
the last

spoken,a tremulous motion stirred the heavy folds.

Then theywere
behind
suddenlyand silently
partedimmediately
the lovers,
and through the opening the gigantic
form of the
Nubian body-servant
launched
was
upon the Centurion in rear.
words

The

were

steward

followed

him

like

gripped Nesera from behind.

was
speedilydragged apart
lover

succumb

to

was

The
and

shadow, and

simultaneously

surprisedand helplessgirl
disarmed, but to force her

difficult task.

more

His

weapon,

in his hand, was

whirled away by a
poised readilybut lightly
sudden
blow, and the horror-stricken Centurion,at the same
which well-nigh
instant,felt himself strained in an embrace
contraction and
stopped his respiration.By a marvellous
eel-like movement
of his body, however, he succeeded
in
and twistinghimself into a position
releasinghis arms
more
face

face

to

grappleon
The

with

his

assailant.

He

was

thus

enabled

to

fairer terms, and a terrible struggle

began.
have
a
Nubian, as we
already said, was
giant

in

topped his tall antagonistby a head, and enfolded

him
with an
His huge, thick limbs and
overwhelming bulk.
muscles, his vast breadth of chest,denoted enormous
power;
but it was
a slow,ponderous,elephantine
overloaded
strength,
with the superfluous
flesh of ease
and good feeding. On
the
other hand, his opponent was
lithe,supple,and active as a
tiger a consummate
athlete,with thews and sinews of steel.
In addition,he was
inspiredwith a fury it is impossibleto
in which he had been tricked
describe, rage at the manner
He

stature.

"

"

"

agony of
With

swayed

as
desperation

he heard

the faint cry of Neasra.

strained to its utmost
tension

every muscle
round
and
round.

Macro,

seeing the

they

favourable

CHAP,

his men
called on
opportunity,
the entrapped Centurion
secure
brief word

in with the

broke
in

and
surprise,

the

wrestlers

'

359

join in

to

; but

the

the

struggleand

voice

of Tiberius

They glanced

Hold.'

upliftedhand

and

at him

his eyes bent

on

eager interest. Nothing loth, therefore,

stillto watch the issue of the struggle.

they stood

with

muscles,the mightystrength

corded

veins,the

knotted

The

his

saw

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

TALE

xxiii.

combatants, as they rocked to and fro and panted with

terrible efforts,
impressedthe onlookers with awe, and thrilled

of the

down

was

mountain

moving a column
palace. He followed no plan but that of tryingto bore
his lighter
antagonist
by sheer weight and brute force.
flesh.

and

of bone
of the

Nubian

immense

The

with excitement.

them

To

the

contest

they were,

as

suffered

were

like

was

rude
tactics,

Martialis felt that these

if
prevail,

him

move

must

much

to

go on
of his
atom

finally
longer.

he gathered every
strengthand
passion,
to lift
art into a last frenzied effort.
Finding it impossible
in his arms
the ponderous,inanimate
mass
by main force,he
and thrust forward his
swerved,as quick and sudden as light,
which the astonished slave
left hip,usingit as a fulcrum, over
with

Mad

felt himself whirled

his

round
legsflying
dashed

was

air,like

in the

the floor with

on

him

stunned

his feet with irresistibleforce.

from

shook

and

the

With

spokes of a wheel,he
tremendous
concussion,which

the

room.

yellof delirious excitement and triumph rang from the

and he glancedround, like a tigerat bay, as if
lipsof Martialis,
has its limits,
and the last
But
victim.
nature
for the next
A

effort,added

supreme

of the
iron.

As

he

day, had

drew

the

to

exertion
extraordinary

begun

himself

to

back

tell

and

even

and

his frame

on

his hands

clenched

citement
ex-

of
for

to fillwith blood
faces,
lights,
desperatedash,his eyes seem
before
him.
in
confused
The
forms mingled
ultant
exone
gleam
shouts of the soldiers,
unrepressedby the presence of
like a muffled
He
roar.
swayed
Caesar, filled his ears
his
he
second
hand
brief
for a
or two, and, as
passed
dizzily

across

"

his brow

confused

as

them, he

if to clear his faculties from

was

buried

Their

amid

the forms

on

the

point of

of the

soldiers.

struggledwith renewed
the men
rightand left,
breakingthrough the heaving mass,

him, and he
grasp restored
vigour. Once or twice,as he hurled
he seemed

the mist which

NEMRA

360

numbers

but

him

their

shoulder

to

with

the

with

strength

the

At

his

and

merciful

Centurion
'

Caesar

with

nothing
gentle
The

one

hurried

'

relieve

and

did

world

not

prisoner

at

clusion
con-

with

handling

used

their

united

Do

from

the

he

hand.

room.

Then

all

hope

blade

the

she

is

fortunate
un-

gone.

was

frantically
in

with

worst

prisoner,

struggled

my

your

the

between

last,

her

therefore
his

that

bury

not

their

around

sides.

as

harm

to

waved
look

and

his

to

foamed,

beware,

Emperor

their

he

why

dare

blood

agonising

'

the

But

tyrant

bloodless

rough

passed

was

perceived,

bonds,

his

heart

of

belt

buckled

securely

arms

entreaties,

to

purpose.

chance

first

their

prompted

tenaciously

the

at

n.

longer

no

rather

clung

pleased

too

and

jokes

triumph,

received

they

issue

the

feelings

in

Only

matter,

good-humoured

whose

officer

hands.

firm
of

rendered

Pretorians,

The

them

exhaustion

and

doubtful.

PART

foul

your
I

me

"

nobly

care

born

and

'

There

lovers,

was

and

only
the

time

Pretorians

for

XXIV.

CHAPTER

would
have
IT Martialis,
had

thoughtsto

greatly relieved
he known

far

that he

his

wit of Plautia

of such

Nesera, when

To
Tiberius

engaged
table and

to

to

Nesera.

far in

too

different type.
she had been dismissed

in the

returned

of

admit of

the

rival,

gave, for the time,no further heed.

him, and very shortlyafter the

described

scene

beloved

was

ascendant, at present, in the Imperialheart

one
especially

mind

occupiedthe Emperor's

greater degree than

brilliant beauty and

The

distracted

the

last
his

chapter,he

keeping,
Weightiermatters

conclusion

of

the

the supperwhich he dismissed

from

rose

apartment, from

own

safe

to

one.

every

the Imperial
mind.
Suspicionand dissimulation equipoised
The former fed the latter,
and both were
profound.
unutterably
Only the day before he had yieldedto the importunitiesof
the Prefect,and had consented
his daughter-in-law
to give him
in marriage. Sejanus retired in joy,with everythingarranged
for his earlyreceptioninto the Imperialfamily. His plans,
followed
now
long and carefully
well-nighmatured,
up, were
and he laughed in his sleeve at the earnest, trustful affection
which
the Emperor had
him.
toward
displayedvery liberally
He was
of the fact that he dailyand
not
aware
hourly filled
the buried thoughts of the old man
thoughts which trusted
was
nobody ; that his own
blindinghim, and
eager ambition
actuallysupplyinga fatal web for a subtler mind than his own
"

to

weave

The

around
close

Prefect,by

of the
person
with Martialis

him.
attention

natural

which

the

could

sequence,

Prefect's favourite
he
personally,

was

devoted

Emperor
not

officer.

fail
If

well-informed

to

not

to

the

follow

the

so

familiar

by report

in

362

NE"RA

concerninghim.
accounted
hurriedly
all

Up

PART

to the

when

moment

1 1.

the Centurion

for his movements,

the mind of Tiberius
smouldering with passion,on the pointof breakinginto a

was

fierce flame
of

moment

of summary
vengeance
reckless invasion of his
his craft seized like

for the

temerity
unparalleled
privacy. At that particular

idea ; his wrath

simulation.
shall
We

lightning
upon

sank

an

and became
mere
subordinate,
a
realised. For
presentlysee how his subtle conjectureswere
the time, however, Martialis was
spared, providinghis own
stubbornness
His
presented no further obstacle to lenience.
his fearless,
personalattributes,
soldierlydefiance,reached a
vein of sympathy which yet lived dormant, far down
in the
heart.
In his youth Tiberius himself
depths of the tyrant's
had been comely, tall of stature, strong of limb,and skilled in
face and athletic form,
hardy exercises ; therefore the handsome
the extraordinary
and address of the young officer,
skill,
strength,
had

not

failed to

arouse

his

secret

admiration.

The

downfall

giganticNubian struck him with wonder, and relit a ray

of the joys of the palaestra
of his own
youthfuldays. But
than this to his suspicious
the conclusion
more
grateful
nature, was
he drew
from the frank,fearless countenance
and the
able,
simple faith of the Pretorian. Such a man
might be invaluand
he
that he should
be uselessly
determined
not
When
avoided.
Zeno
butchered, if it could be profitably
him
reminded
of the fact of the
stooped, and whisperingly
existence of a door, but seldom
used, and hidden by the
he assented
curtain,immediatelybehind the positionof Martialis,
which, we have seen, was
eagerlyto the suggestion,
carried out successfully.
So far all had gone fortunately.The Emperor withdrew ;
ferred
and, from the dark expressionof his face,it was
readilyinwould have short shrift.
that the culprit
When
alone, however, in his apartment, and safe from
of his

eye, his mien

pacings of the room
every

Fits of abstraction and

altered.

restless

passed the silent time, and as the

midnight approached, his impatience and nervousness
more

marked.

silver bell

as

Several
if to

times

ring,and,

as

his hand

often,after

with his ears strained to

indecision,
the deep stillness,
he turned away.

catch

rested
a

of

grew
a

small

moments

of

least sound

in

few

the

on

hour

he
Occasionally

went

to

one

of the

corner

his

would

return

to

and

by

by

them

363

and, drawing back

room,

againstthe

close

ear

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

TALE

xxiv.

CHAP.

wall for

his seat

curtain,
placed

he

Thence

few moments.

his

book, for a space, to leave

excursion. Many varied positions

and

for another

now
now
reclining,
ambling hither
sitting,
occupied,now
and thither,
impelledby the painsof impatienceand anxiety.
and examining
with this object,touchingthat, lifting
Trifling
his state of nervous
another,half unconsciously,
unrest, finding

he

relaxation from

wonderful

his

of his retreat,was
inscrutable impassiveness
of

walls
sightless

within the deaf and

full vent

the

publicdemeanour.
Midnight had barelypassed,when
that

from

bent

and
paid a visit,

of the

corner

two

he

where

room

His

ear.
listening

three

or

taps proceeded
had

often

face cleared

stantly
in-

the sound.
toward
Stooping
stepped at once
he presseda particular
and
down
spot in the angleof the wall,
secret
a
before,shot
panel, wholly indistinguishable
narrow,
and
silently
swiftlyupward. Through the opening stepped
and

he

Zeno.
Well ? ' said Tiberius

'

almost
'

sharply
;
patience.'

beyond my

I have

help,'
repliedthe
possibly
have
'

Is all safe

'

Quite

sound

as

you are sure that

since supper ? '

And

outwards

longer

to have

come

than

I could
would

sooner

'

now

he is off

"

'

Greek ;

'

waited

I have

rash.'

been

'

last !

at

second

lingered one

not

'

Especialorders

no

as

passed from

soul has

givento

were

be.'

can

all the

the

palace

guards.'

'Come, then!'

They stepped through

the shutter
'

after them.

which
click,'

the hidden

denoted

and

at

hidden

two

narrow

away,

gave

rock-hewn

and

and,

at

on

way

door,
to

down

subdued, but

clear

of a highlyinstrumentality
first with

the

lamp.

They

They

as

in the rock ;
cunninglycontrived and

their potent touch

in the same
all
in a wider gallery,
were
now

faced with brick.

a

drew

of steps cut
winding flights

their foot,another

mysteriousmanner.
doors ;

went

opening and
with

It closed

perfectedspring. Zeno
descended

the secret

On

little distance away,

either side
a

were

lamp hung

ranged
from the

NE^fiRA

364

PART

n.

terranean
like a yellow beacon
ceiling,
lightstrugglingwith the subgloom. Immediatelybeneath this lamp Zeno halted
before

'Are

door.
there

but ourselves below?'

none

one,' returned Zeno;

pretence and another, and

on
despatched every one
all clear,locked
having seen

'No
one

up the main outlet myself.'

The steward
pushed with

Tiberius.

muttered

'I

his

fingerone of the many iron

studs or bolt-heads which strengthenedthe door.
It slid back
and disclosed a small peep-hole,
a couple of inches
through
which he peered. Satisfied with his scrunity
he unlocked
the
in.
The
chamber
door and they went
about twelve feet
was
square, and furnished with a small tripodstand, a stool,and a
the ceiling
From
palletbed.
hung a lamp which threw down
the cheerless place.
a dismal light
on
the bed

On

grace, with

stretched

was

sinewyarm

one

toward
pallet-side,

the form

of Martialis in careless

hangingdown

the floor.

the

length over

at

His

was
corpse-like.
appearance
his
closed eyes,
his dark hair
bold, handsome
features,
curlingcrisplyover his brow, seemed all fixed in the tranquil

His

marble

the

of death.
breath
Not
a
earlymoments
seemed
and the steel cuirass which
to part his moulded
lips,
encased his body hid effectually
all signof movement
beneath.
Tiberius
started and turned a frowning,
inquiringglance on
his companion. Zeno pointed to some
victuals and an empty

beauty of

pitcherwhich
'

no

He

stood

has eaten

on

the small stand.

nothingand

drunk

every

drop
"

he will

give

trouble.'
'How

have

"

killed

you

him?'

demanded

the

Emperor

for

that, but

sternly.
'Ah

no,

Caesar

potent enough

the

"

him

make

to

drug

was

harmless

better than

no

clod for

some

hours ; and a mercy for him, as you would

say, had you
his state of mind.
We
may do what we pleasewith him.'
The
which

steward

the inanimate

stout

belt
drew

was

leather belt buckled

a

truth, for,in the

Pretorian

of consciousness.

symptom
a

the

spoke

was

he
subjected,

Underneath
round

pouch securelyfastened,and

several

scrolls of

papyri
"

the

handling to
exhibited

his cuirass

his waist.
from
paper

seen

they found

Attached
this the
of the

no

to

the

Emperor
ancients,

CHAP.

made

from

the

TALE

xxiv.

the

ANCIENT

OF

Egyptianplantof

'

ROME

that

365

Taking

name.

these to

tripod,Tiberius turned his back on his trusty

steward, and proceeded to unroll them with eager trembling
of each
fingers. He glanced through the written contents
with a rapidpractisedeye, but found nothing therein,
save
dry
officialreports from the deputy in command
of the Pretorian
His countenance
fell graduallyas he proat Rome.
camp
ceeded,
lamp

the

on

and
muttered

when

be

It may
and
Roman

pages
author

stick of
or

map

latter
the

more

on

less

or

exterior

also exhibited

other

The

parts.

length. This
same

It is

on

scroll

evidently

days,inasmuch

as

ing
bind-

work

of

stripof

papyrus
rolled round

was

manner

as

being neatlyfinished

title of the book.

to

of the Romans

continuous

one

size in the
appropriate

was

the book

component

written

was

chart,the

with the

explainthat

no

One

vent

shop.

that of modern

formed

parchment, of

or

end, he gave

official nature, but

an

bookseller's

well to

as

of

not

point resembled

no

the

at

ejaculationof disappointment.

remained, which was

a late productionof
in

arrived

he

and

probable enough

ticket attached

to

modern

lettered
that

the

the

end

of

roll,as

of ascertaining
affordinga readier means
any
when
laid
the
shelves
of
the
particular
book,
together on
or
library,
dropped endwise into the circular boxes used for
their transport.
The remaining roll

took
book, which the Emperor now
in a purple parchment covering. Sliding
off
up, was sheathed
the latter,
he found the volume
to be of a nature
he had already
guessed with the accuracy of experience. It was a satire,
a
-de- societ'e,
of
the
vers
by one
poetasters of the day, and very
showilygot up. As the outer sheath was removed
a small
slip
of paper fell out.
It was
which ran
an
follows :
epistle,
as
or

"

Knowing

'

I have

it is

must

you

the

sent

will

despatches. It is the
and

very

artistic

admirable

as

ornamentation
to
out

times feel dull with

accompanyingvolume

only small, and

have

at

not

out-of-the-world

feeling,

much

hope it may prove acceptable;

and weight of your
to the bulk

last

new
thing by Variue, and quite the
opinionof the compositionmyself; but, as an
specimen of the publisher's
workmanship, I think

any

I have

you

yet

author's want

seen

will find well

of wit.'

art

"

even

to

the

mute

worthy of examination.
should

be

so

needed

wood

rage.

elegant

poor

think that the bookmaker's

an

add

an

in the

it is

as

whose
itself,
It is mournful

nowadays

to

eke

366

NEsERA

PART

11.

it happened that

Now

Tiberius,who was very devoted to

had alreadyperused the satire he now
literature,
held.
Every
of the city
new
forwarded
publication
was
to him, as
punctually
be
unrolled
the paper, which
might
expected. He, therefore,
about
and
a yard
was
and six or eightinches
a half in length,
the beautifully
wide, and glanced his eye down
charactered
effusion. There was also a portrait
of the author included on
the scroll ; but as it was
all identical with what he had already
and bestowed more
attention upon the
seen, he passed it over
wooden
to observe if there was
roller,
anythingabout it worthy
of

notice
particular

more

in his

than

he had

before

possession. The littleroller was

own

givento

the

one

plainand coloured
a
boss, rather of

with
black,but each end was ornamented
conical shape,carved
and
picked out with brilliant colours.
Tiberius gazed at it and strove to compare
it mentallywith his
own
specimen. He read the accompanying letter again,and

tried hard

to

discover

the

peculiarbeauties

recommended.
so
cylinder,
particularly
but there seemed
anythingextraordinary,
the bulk

thereof which

struck

Zeno, he despatched him

The

Greek

copy.
volumes.
two

edition ;

same

he

saw

brows, and
profound meditation.
to
epistle

nameless

another

weights of
arrangingthe rolls
to

the
he

interfere
called

Then

of paper

fingersof
The

after

his

to

own

ferences.
difference in their circum-

of

Greek

Prefect

was

affixed

to

the

his

he

on

once

to

which

possible,he
both

hands.

very perceptibly
the ends

margin of
The

own.

his gaze

cylindersseemed

the

aid

Turning

unusual.

the projection

Emperor
cylinders

the two

studied

more

his memory;
the books.
on

refresh

littleas

in the

case.

hands, and

as

his

tipsof

of the

was

riveted

examination

relative

be

to

which

his

perceive
something in

to bring him
library

less in the Prefect's than

was

failed to

He

belonged to the
thicker; but, as the bosses
the same
it followed,
that
size,

remained

in

there

at once

his

as

wooden

returned,and Tiberius compared the

exactlysimilar,
being copiesof the
he placed the wooden
gether,
cylindersto-

soon

They were
but, when

That

knitted

to

him

of the

after which

he

to

strike

they were
balanced

Then,

the

him,

so,

attached
the
as

as

rollers
if

on

dubious,
the

cylindersinto his
minutelyexamining them, he weighed
the

stowed
be-

Something in

Zeno, brieflypointingout
took

the

facts
own

them

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

TALE

xxiv.

CHAP.

367

tapped the
thicker roller with a littlemetal key, and listened attentively
them
he balanced
Then
the sound.
to
again,and finally
than
that the thicker roller was
it as his opinion,
lighter
gave
sounded
the smaller one, and, moreover,
as
though it were
The eyes of Emperor and steward exchanged a signihollow.
ficant
as

his

had

master

For

done.

further

test

he

flash.
'Such

Tiberius.

'

Let

took

of

bosses

the

but
delicate,
force
He

of

his

long
tion
junc-

of the
scrutiny
very minute
either end.
Then, by patientand

After

considerable

of the

and the
efforts,

looser and

boss became

his

at

handling,one

renewed

said
necessary,'

manipulation,he proceeded

firm

detachable.

were

nor

suspected cylinder into

the

made

and
supplefingers,

usual

discover the reason."

try and

us

Greek

The

is neither

condition

amount

to

of

try if they

persuasive

hair's-breadth.

bosses

yieldeda
Emperor'seyes glistened.The
in

and
looser,

minute's time

came

off

that the original

perceive
bosses had been fitted to a new
cylinder.That one which had
been removed, instead of being affixed in the usual way to a

altogether.They

flat surface,had
the

and
roller,

The

were

been
then

Zeno
as
roller,

now

enabled

hollowed

to

littleto

tightenedwith
had

thin

suspected,was

receive the

end

of

of glue.
application

hollow.

He

turned

it

upside down and a littlescroll of very thin paper dropped out.

The fingers
it like lightning.His
of the Emperor closed on
unrolled
eyes flamed with a ferocious delightas he carefully
of the fragile
document
and read therein.
a few inches
Haste
like the wind!'
bring tablets,
paper, anything
he whispered excitedly. Zeno hastened
away, and Tiberius,
huddling againstthe lamp, devoured the contents of the secret
missive with eyes starting
from his head, and mouth
in
agape
astonishment.
Rage, hate,and delirious joy thrilled him as he
read.
His hands, his body, and his limbs trembled
with the
'

"

force

of

his

"

excitement.

dropped

the

Swiftlyreading to the close,he

littlequivering
paper, and laughed with triumph.

Startled

by

his

voice

at
fearfullyround
Martialis ; but the Centurion lay deathlike in the profound
With
stupor of his drugged slumbers.
uneasy, hasty steps
the Emperor paced the narrow
dungeon, muttering inaudibly
until Zeno
entered
with
Then
he sat
writing materials.
own

he

looked

368

NEMRA

down

make

to

intended

missive

writer

skilfully
glue

but

Send

despatches

he

is

him

night's
to

bed

will

"

!'

end.

an

heated

to

it

cause

in

hold

firmly.

the

without

the

of

pouch
sign

boss

incrusted

the

to

letter

the

and

the

of

original

roller,

carefully

have

fingers

The

the

in

fateful,

otherwise

would

trembling

arranged

show

to

with.
the

with

of

his

his

own

this
will

his

he

When

hands.

myself.
it

to

your

and

day,
the

and

without
if

youth

oi"

courier

messenger

find

light

first

will,

'He

see

you

evidently
alone.

replaced

position

see

work

it

and

then

dress

the

with
I

gone,

lamp

Prefect

"

his

the

tampered

let

personally

who

Tiberius.

said

thereof,'

now

his

with

him

than

to

came

were

the

to

Prefect

mind

Zeno,
of

flame

been

had

he

the

hiding-place

by

and

Centurion,

good

its

documents

The

'

it

and

secret,

of

eyes

agitated

replaced
the

the

longer

length

at
to

over

that

the

to

restored

was

the

occupied

owing

done,

of

copy
for

task

The

"

n.

PART

causes

doubt,

wishes,
that
We
benefit

attend
obtain

and
is

done

have

quaint
ac-

and

made
as

to

mine

XXV.

CHAPTER

TV

/T ARTIALIS

awoke,

morning, with

next

like

lead,and

brain

rather

or

confused

liberal hand.

him
dull torpor weighing on
and racking with pain. Zeno's
a

it was,

sleeping potion, whatever

ness,
graduallyto conscious-

came

had

been

with

mixed

slowly back through the stupor

which
felt for the
clogged his senses, and he instinctively
all
there
he had
despatches of which
charge. They were
his heavy aching head
the little
and
he turned
toward
right,
table.
A
jug stood thereon along with the victuals he had
it had
his joy he found
left untouched
the night before.
To
been
His
mouth
was
parched and
replenished with water.
his lips dry and
with avidity. The
cracked, and he drank
gratefuldraught restored him vastly,and he also partook of
bread
fruit. Then
and
some
lying back again on the bed
he gave himself up to his poignant reflections,
and awaited what
should

had

employed
mind, and

his

was,

he

was

cause

her

his

tortured

to

not

receive
his

if allowed.

him,

to

the

mind
him
He

behalf,and
was

with
knew

At

give up

some

one

his

to

any

the idea

arose

would

rate,

charge

to

he

visit him

in
especially

be

captiveas
any
the

one

in

one

he
but

Prefect,
by
might be able,perhaps,
in person,

of, since he hoped

more

papers
he

himself,whenever

authorised
Thus

same.

commander

earnestlydesirous
in his

the Prefect

bearer, therefore there

hope also,that his commander

himself,or

to
writing,
to

he

but

one

injunctionsto deliver

their

determined

the Prefect
in

as

no

first to visit

of the

strict

the most

ever

despatches to

was

came

follow.

He
and

Memory

to

gain

an

his

that of Neaera.

act

fluence
inOf

imaginings which
scribed.
of suspense
too
sufferings
deep to be denight
nothing of the time, whether it was
filled with

fears

and

NEMRA

37"

PART

n.

beneath
ground ; but he had been
day, since he was
he heard
a
key put into the door.
lying long awake when
of
realised by the entrance
his joy his conjectureswere
To
Sejanus. The Prefect was genuinelytroubled at the situation
relation
and drew from him
a detailed
of his favourite officer,
or

of what
'

had

You

occurred.

were

ill-advised in

beingso

bold

said
desperate,'

and

have

'A
calmer
method
would
Sejanus, shaking his head.
been more
politic.'
think
I
stayed at the time
not, though I never
returned Martialis sternly. Being too late to
that no
this accursed place,I knew
her ere she reached
'

to

deliver

'

remained

but death
for

But

for her

trick all had

cunning

Prefect,would

been

have

now

therefore

"

her

I gave

escape

the

means.

successful,and

been

lackinga

Centurion

liberate
de-

you,
a few

and

Pretorians.'
have you
must
we
Humph, it is better as it is,Martialis
free of this place again.'
Preserve
her, Prefect ; I care little for myself if I am
this for me, I adjure you ; for I
assured of her safety. Do
have
spared nothing in your service. Pray and entreat him,
find the means
do as I did,and
if he be still pitiless,
and
She will
of freedom.
of providingher with a secret weapon
her
to
bless you as I will promise me, Prefect,in mercy
is
what
of mind
both ! The
to us
gods only know
agony
of thinkingof the pure, sweet
The
mine.
torture
girlin the
above us
to
of those wretches
imagine her shrinking
power
'

"

'

"

"

"

in their
clenched
His

hands
foul,pitiless
fistsand

speech moved
in such
'

My

his

the

which

poignant groan

closed

his

heart,albeit

his commander's

not

sensitive

over

matters.

best efforts shall

better of it.
I will put this
without thee.'

It is
matter

in connection

with

not

be

he replied.
wanting,'

earlyyet, but as
right,
depend

Martialis uttered his

as

soon

it

upon

"

thanks,and, after

his mission

the courier's belt underneath

cell.

shook

The

man
young
buried his face in his hands.

then

and
distress,

oh !'

"

to

Rome,

his cloak

some

the

and

'

Think

Caesar

is

why,

I cannot

more

Prefect

stirring,
do

questions
buckled

departed from

the

CHAP.

TALE

xxv.

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

371

rose

time lagged on until the prisoneronce

more
weary
his recumbent
from
positionto greet his commander,

who

returned

The

grave look on his dark

it with a failing
heart.

with

Martialis beheld
'

done

have

what

could, and

safety;but you have

said Sejanus,shaking his
fashion,'
'And
'

Well, as

'

her,you
has

been

as

far

as

in

no

light

head.

man.

She is no
easy.
away to the household

longerin

rest

may
sent

of Livia

keeping.'

for safe

to

to

palace,but

the

cried the. young

she?'

have

gone
provoked him

could, with

face.

handsome

Thank

heaven

givefor

your good
voice choked

His

you, thanks are

cried Martialis.
offices,'
And

"

all I

to

his

lip trembled.

The

able

am

revulsion of

for his overstrung nature

to bear,and
feelingwas too much
tears
stopped his voice.
is nothing due to me,' said the Prefect ; the transfer
There
was
already accomplished; but, being where she is,she
noble
shall not fail of careful watching. The
Livia,as you
have heard, becomes
may
my bride ere long.'
said Martialis,
it not, but wish you every joy,'
I knew
yet
without
warmth
could
not
help recallingto his
; for he
thoughts the Prefect's divorced wife Apicata,who had been
doubt
make
to
frivolously
put aside,no
way for his present
be I have
betrothal.
It may
only a few hours to live,but
'

'

'

'

is gone
since I know
my
her, Prefect,that my last thoughts were

stingof

the
Tell

Nesera

death

of her

is safe.
and

for

her.'
'

Humph,

Caesar

is ruffled without

with

Pretorians so
my
with a proud curl of his lip; ' you may
for a space yet.'
and bequest over
make

not

'

away

It is all in your

doubt, but

he

does

said Sejanus,
easily,'
leave

returned
hands, Prefect,'

your

last will

the other.

alone with
and Martialis was
left once
more
Sejanusretired,
his thoughts. They were
tranquiland even
buoyant to
what they had been, and he began to conjectureand weigh
in

arguments
craven
an

cost

fear of

ardent
him

the

discussion

of

death, but, at the

lover,and
deep pang

life had
to think

his

own

case.

He

had

time,he was young

pleasantlywith him.
gone
what might have been,
on
same

no

and
It
and

NEsERA

372

being out

Neaera

his
peril,

of

PART

hold

the

on

strengthenedin

spiteof himself. He
Tiberius,but he relied

of

nature

commander,

who

he

was

hope
the

knew

would

turned

these

was
liberty

less
relent-

stern

the influence of the

on

certain

of

u.

hazard

in his

much

defence.
he

So

ruminated

and

thingsover

and

over

in his

mind, wondering when he should again see the lightof

day. Zeno, with a guard, paid him a visit to attend to his
but the
wants, and bring him a fresh supply of provisions,
uncommunicative.
worthy Greek was singularly
When
the prisonerate and
drank
they were
more
gone
than he had hitherto done, and, lyingdown
heartily
again,fell
asleep.
He was
awakened
by a touch on his shoulder.
Opening
his eyes he saw, to his extreme
the Emperor himself
surprise,
standingby his side. He started up and perceivedthey were
alone together. His
heart beat quickly,and wild thoughts
began to rise. There was the tyrant defenceless before him
the cause, as he believed,of the present situation of himself
"

and

Nesera,

delivered
this

idea, his
it

whether

whom

man,

his hand.

to

he

could

Whilst

like

crush

his mind

flamed

shell,
nut-

with

sought the door, to ascertain

eye instinctively
closed upon them.
Tiberius,meanwhile, stood

was

motionless

old

an

"

before

him.

read

He

thoughts quite readily

"

not

the

young

motion

or

man's

passing
glance escaped

him.
that I am
to you
in
now
alone, and it occurs
calmness ; I admit it'
your power,'said he, with the utmost
'

We

are

'

flush

of Caesar

to the cheek

arose

to

him

show

desperateact, save
'

have

of Martialis.

that he

momentary

had

littleto

gain

no

from

satisfactionof savage

he
sorelytried,'

been

It needed

words
such

revenge.

replied,
drawing a deep

breath ; ' if such an idea flashed into my mind it died on

the
instant
you need have no fear.'
'
said Tiberius ; ' I love my Pretorians,
and an
I knew
it,'
"

officer and
to

possess,
The
ruler.
my

youth

of such

is well

prowess
worthy of the

circumstances

interest has

led

Martialis bowed

me

to

as

of your
visit you

his head.

you
mature
case

have

proved yourself

consideration
are

so

unusual

personally.'

of

that

CHAP.

TALE

xxv.

OF

ANCIENT

NOME

373

demand
to
forbearance, and that is
thing seems
Without
thought,
your youth,with its hot unreasoningblood.
scruple,or calculation of a moment, you plunge headlong into
chamber, amid my guests and servants,utterlyregardless
my
of everything,
in pursuit
of your sweetheart,justas you would,
'

One

into the midst of

doubtless,have rushed
'

band

of

Satyrs.'

excited to desperation I would

right I was
said the
followed her anywhere
do I now
nor
repent,'
to
man
frankly; the welfare of my betrothed is more

You

have

are

"

"

"

'

young
than
me

life itself.'

Tiberius
the

as

'

I entreated

impassive

as

added

once

Martialis
It

was

What

well

set at defiance

is the

then

and

mit
humbly subforgiveness,'

all discipline,
authority,

punishment? You,

as

know.'
aware

punishment

extreme

quickly.

soldier,
ought to
am

forbearance

for your

more

fault which

respect.
'I

the

intrusion

rude

pardon, Caesar, for my

Imperialchamber, and

your

privacyof
fault

my

and

countenance

Sphinx.

into the

'

gently,with

nodded

within the
that my
offence bringsme
is master
of all. Caesar
of life and

death.'
'

'

Is there

the

why

reason

any

penalty should

be

not

forced?'
en-

said Martialis,
the gaze of the
ready,'
calmly returning
who has ever
done his duty,two
But, as a soldier,
Emperor.
granted.'
requests might be mercifully
am

'

'

them.'

Name

'That

suffer

no

dishonourable

death, and

that

the

maiden

Or,

may be returned to her people in safetyand honour.

if these be too much, grant, at least,the latter,
and deal

with

of

you will as regardsthe former.'

I have said that your headstrongyouth claims
me

'

as

indulgence,and
'Thanks
'

Your

keeping.

your

'

Then

'

And

from

I grant both
my heart.'

betrothed
There
I

am

for the

death.'

shall not

an

amount

requests.'

be

harmed

"

she

is

now

in safe

is the firstcondition settled.'

at peace.

'

other,you

shall

name

yourselfthe

manner

of

NEJERA

374
'

singlesword-thrust here,'said

hand

his heart.

over

Tiberius
then

PART

bent

an

Centurion,layinghis

old and

honourable

name.'

searchinggaze

long and
feet,paced
a

his

risingto

'I bear

the

IT.

him, and
upon
the cell for some

down

up and

moments.
'

to

I love my Pretorians,
and cannot
bear
The words reached
harm,' he muttered.

whose
tialis,
be

heart throbbed

denied.

Then

Prefect has
'

He
'

;
'

spoken to

returned

to

them

see

the

hope which
his seat

so

me

would

and

you

"

"

often act

as

come

of Mar-

ears

not

said,'The

has he seen
concerningyou
for the despatchesI bore,'answered
came
I know
he would
of me.'
speak favourably

did

He

Caesar

with renewed

to

you

here?'

the Centurion

his courier?'

'Very frequently.'
I remember

'

'

I have

between

often had

the Prefect and

'Yes, you
missions
'No

you before in that capacity.'

the honour
of carrying
importantletters

to have

ever

yourself.'

favoured

are

include

with

his confidence.

Do

your

business?'
diplomaticor political
nothing of either,and have no desire

I know

"

seen

any

to

My professionsuffices to fill my entire attention.'

Good,' said the Emperor approvingly
;
you are a soldier,
and simple,
It is all the more
as
pity
you ought to be.

learn.
'

pure

'

have

you

He
watched

committed

rose

him

from

his

this fault.'
seat

and

walked

the cell again. Martial is

anxiously.

noble
'It is strange that you, a man
ot
said Tiberius.
stoop to a girlof a base artisan,'

blood, should
'

Do

you say

her?'
to marry
betrothed,and meant
the other,with a littlesternness
I did,'
replied
;
you have
and that is sufficient
alreadypassed your word for her safety,
I have reason
to believe,
assurance
: but
Caesar, that she is
child.'
not the potter's
it requiresproof,however
I have alreadyheard
that
give it me,' said Tiberius,with an incredulous smile curling
his lip.
I cannot
returned Martialis ; but at least I can
prove it,'
are

you

'

'

'

"

"

'

'

tell you
And
him

the

all I know.'

accordinglyrelated
previousnight.
he

the slender facts committed

to

CHAP.

"

TALE

xxv.

OF

ANCIENT

this man, Cestus,whom

is he stillin Surrentum
?'
'

And

'

I cannot

tell.

hasten

Did

'

he not

say who
have said

'I should
his

at once

is

there

to reveal

would

all to her

relative,'
repliedMartialis ; 'according

remaining her grandfather,

Fabricius,who lives on the Janiculum.'
Fabricius
of the Janiculum,'repeated Tiberius,tapping
his forehead ; Fabricius belongs to other days,but if I am
with the times.
Is he not the
not mistaken,his heir is fully
worthy Domitius Afer, the bosom friend of the Prefect ?
to

tale

that he

'

were

her uncle

to be

were,

I presume

"

these

375

she supposes

his last words

But

to Rome

away
relatives.'

ROME

only

one

"

'

'

'

Martialis

confused

was

betrayedwhat
to

keep

and

for he
silent,

secret.

this is so, then the tale certainly

grows in
continued
Tiberius,with a dark twinke of his eyes ;
'

If

it more
'

substance
I made

breach

'

Be

interest,'
'

it lends

probability.'

and

of trust in

said Martialis
revealed,'
prove

wittingly
un-

particularly
enjoinedhim

had

Cestus

had

he

saw

of Afer to be
causingthe name
anxiously; were he to know, it might
'

risk to her.'

Centurion

at peace,

knight,that

I could

ill bear

I have

"

the

such

matter

to

sympathy with the

be interruptedfor

his sake.'
smiled

Caesar

remained

He

thought.

then

grimly,and

thus for

knitted in

his brows
minutes

some

deep
ing.
speak-

without

man's
heart throbbed
fast,and it needed a
young
of composure.
great effort to retain an outward appearance
'
his head from
Centurion,'said Tiberius,at lengthraising
The

his
them

'

breast, I
pains my
in

find much
and

love

my
heart.

excuse

Pretorians,and to deal hardly with

I have
pondered on your case, and

of your

haste

of your
which was
feelings,

your
I pardon you, but I will

conduct

"

the inconsiderate

youth,and the overwrought

only to be expected. I will

giveyou

chance

of

ness
rash-

state
not

of
say

redeeming your

liberty.'
The

Centurion
with

'

faltered

out

his thanks

from

heart

flowing
over-

joy.

Anything that

may

be

honestlyundertaken

I will strain

NEJERA

376
mind

and

body

he
clemency,'

PART

accomplish,and

to

prove

of your

sense

my

n.

said.

will find it to your taste, Centurion,'

said Tiberius,
which
speaking with a polishedaffability
proved irresistibleto
'

You

his astonished

'

prisoner. I
the identity
of
establishing
of Fabricius

of

in
propose that you busy yourself
betrothed
with
the granddaughter
your

the

Janiculum.

The

fate of your

will determine

endeavours

your own.'
with excess
of wonder

Dumfounded

and

joy,Martialis was
It seemed
too good to be true,
speechlessfor a few moments.
and he gazed in Caesar's face with a lurking suspicionthat,
perhaps,he was, after all,the objectof a bitter joke.
Do you accept ? asked Tiberius,smiling.
sure
Ah, if I were
you do not jest.'
Should
you failin provingyour point you will eventually
'

'

'
'

find it
'

jest.'

no

It shall not
and

commence,
'

Proceed

shall be
faithful

be for the want

task in the

your

the

law,which

be

about

demands

off at

downcast
'

to

within

start

'

me
are

vagabond to
preferredthe
know

on

think best ; you

swift and
so
are

to

to

own

my

punished

be

"

will be

an

not

the villa

even
are

continue

to

you have
If I were

"

chance

of

instructions

think

on

what

the

in your
cohort

'

Caesar

"

only wish

gratitude.'

the tale of

place,I

an

should

idle
have

single-handed.You

in the interval.'

consider them
left the

my

nothingbut

facinga

appear

numbered.'

better opportunityto prove

"

that you
arranged for you.

the Pretorian
served,'replied

sayingTiberius

the bed

should

to the very letter of your

hasty
relyon.

the terms
So

to

Neptune, whither
hour.
I will,
again,see you
a word, or
your hope will be

"

be better

gave
You

you

am

for you proceed

necessary
it to be known
that I have

that you

nay, you must

prisonerwhose hours
once

I will attend

will never

how

impolitic.It is,therefore,necessary

there,and, tillthen, breathe

cut

you

at

That
depart in absolute secrecy.
At nightfall
to
you will be removed
am

but

"

liberty
to-night.Since you
courier,I will also entrust somethingof

it would

trial

manner

be
It will,therefore,
your care.
direct. I do not choose
to Rome
broken

when?'

on

set
a

of

cell,and

had

Martialis

passed.

flunghimself

CHAI-,

this the cruel Tiberius ?

Was
It

was

thought crept into his mind

were
cruelty. His senses

It

that he
the

on

377

failed,as

was

was

Should

Rome?

he

him

meet

at

sickening

the

the victim of refined

with an
expectation
alert,
were
as good as his word,

pain. If Caesar
positive
the pure air of heaven in
he would
be breathing
The thought filled him with the glowingwarmth
of wine.
On Cestus everything
depended. Had
which

be realised !

hardlyto

was

his heart

that
extraordinary

so

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

TALE

xxv.

the

house

few hours.

and
he

of

comfort
left for

Fabricius?

sive
proofs,as he asserted,and would they be concluWas she really
and satisfactory
?
to the old man
anything
The
but the simplegirlhe had always known
her ?
potter's
Her beautyseemed
wife said she never
had a child of her own.
such
to spring from
semblance
never
lowly parents. She bore no resuch as comes
her loftycourage was
to them, and
with the proud blood of ancient ancestry.
Thus, with a multitude of thoughts vivid and wild,presumptive
he
and
burned
the
hour
waited
for
yet inconclusive,
Had

he the

of his deliverance.
half

and

dozen

Centurion

The

questionsas
produced
'

No

It came,
Pretorians.

"

comrades,

to

bonds
not

at

last,in the person

his part
his destination and

played

to fasten

those,'said

without

him,
he

givingyou

well,and asked various

fate ; but, when
they

he drew

back.

I will go with
trouble of a knot

proudly;
the

of Zeno

'

you,
or

buckle.'

They assented,and presentlyall left the cell and marched

down
Here
to the Marina.
rowed
they took boat,and were
where
the villa Neptune
side of the island,
to the north-west
stood.
of steps cut in
Ascending the cliffsby a narrow
flight
the rock,they reached the level ground above and entered the
villa. Martialis was
conducted
to a cell beneath
ground, and
he had left,
that it was
somewhat
save
very similar to the one
larger. Wine and food was brought him, and he proceeded at
fresh air had invigorated
to make
The
once
a heartymeal.
in a great measure, the vapours with which
him, and dispelled,
his drugged drink had filled him.
Moreover, it was dusk
and he expected and
by the time they had entered the villa,
toil
He had justfinished eating
a night's
hoped to encounter
when
the key rattled in the lock,and Caesar entered.

NEsERA

378
'

Have

you?'

you eaten
asked Tiberius.

'

'

Then

well,for

PART

listen !

On

'

I will ride without

'

Wait
a

proceed

concern,

own

your

best,but first of all you

for me.'

in

long journey before

ready,'repliedMartialis.

am

think

out

have

you

n.

carry and

must

deliver

as

you
letter

singlestop.'

until you hear, for this business

different manner,
else I had not

carried

be

must

brought you here.

alreadygiven,that your absence
Whilst you are leaguesaway, the

It is necessary, for the reasons

be not known
to any one.
guard will stillbe stationed

at

end

the upper

of

the

corridor,

the belief that you are a prisoner. Provisions will still

picion
supplied,and all details will go on, in order that no sus-

under
be

may be aroused.
the coast,
down
one

will interfere

the
a

Prefect

few

neying
jour-

are

that

days,so

no

comprehend fully?'

you

"

I, myself,and
southward, for

'Quite.'
'This

letter you

deliver

must

the

at

said
earliest,'

the

'

Never rest
Emperor, drawing a small packetfrom his bosom.
in those of the
until you have placed it with your own
hands
for it as
Guard
it and care
it is addressed.
lady to whom
wrote
life. I never
a more
important and weighty
your own
faith in you.'
despatch. You see, I place implicit
You will have no occasion to repent your faith,'
replied
who
now
Martialis,
began to perceive that something more
answerable
for his ruler's
than personalinterest in himself was
clemency and strange proceeding.
said Tiberius, and, as your absence
That I fullyexpect,'
is not to be revealed here,it follows,
from confinement
naturally,
in the city. Were
it
must
not be known
that your presence
'

'

'

there it would

known

therefore,you
That

promptly at

It
the

not

will go
straightway. The mean

after that

but

you
I

here.

known

For

that

end,

cityin daylight.
will deliver the packet
is simple. You
first nightfall
possible.The second night

must

is all.

be
speedily

forbid you

in the

stir abroad

and

receive

time you
to

run

may
any

answer

an

use

risk

and

return

for your own

cern;
conof betrayingyour

presence.'
The

Emperor clapped

his hands

and

Zeno

entered.

He

CHAP.

TALE

xxv.

ANCIENT

OF

ROME

379

and proceeded to disguise

the outward
clothing,
of the Centurion.
The cuirass,
high boots,
appearance
of the military
all vestiges
were
profession,
exchanged for

bore

armful

an

and

the loose

of

of

garments

-fingeredGreek

secret

missive

drawn

over

adroitlyconcealed

nimble

all effected

appearance.
'
'Twill

To

master.

transformation

and

of which

the

secured

the

complete all,a wig was

of the Centurion,which

close, curlinglocks

the

than

more

his

of

trader,in the breast

in the young

man's

blind

every one, unless the Centurion

said Zeno.
to alter his speech and bearingto suit,'
not

manage
'
It will serve

speak

his purpose sufficiently

well.
'
said Tiberius.
until compelled,'
Now

Centurion.

in

Here

writingis the

Let him
you

and

name

deliveryof the letter. Keep it in your

Here
preserve it longerthan necessary.

for the
not

without which
and

the

beside

door, and

place required
pouch, and do
is money,
also,
Go

now

turninground,

to

saw,

opening in the cell wall opposite

it Zeno
standingsmiling,with a

narrow

start,

may

spare it.

not

never

you.'

Martialis

nodded, and,

his astonishment

Do

move.

will conduct

Zeno

be secret.
Tiberius

to

cannot

you

can

hand, ready to conduct him.

avoids busy eyes
It leads to the grotto beneath,and
so
Vale!
above,'said the Emperor.
alis
The steward went
through the secret opening,and Martilantern in his
'

'

followed

down

distance.

places by means
exit,and when
'

You

must

The

subterranean

narrow

descent

of broad
Zeno

return

continuous,and

was

shallow

opened it

for

way
A

steps.

he

the

gave

door

able
considerin

some

closed

key to

his

the

panion.
com-

other way than this.

small knob on the left hand

Capreae by

to

no

the upper door you will find a

side ; press it and you will be able to enter your cell again.'
Then
desiringhim to stand stilllest he should fall into
On

the water, the steward

himself,and Martialis
wonderful
the

caverns

or

island,along

of the wonders
of course,

the

lit a

torch,with which he had provided

of those
perceivedtheywere in the largest
grottoes which exist in various placesin
foot of the

sea-washed

of the island he had

enteringfrom

the

sea

been

; and

cliffs. As

in it

had

one

before,though,

seen

with

delight

NEMRA

380

daytime,

in

light

lent

water

Zeno

to

failed

to

nature

Centurion

got

him,

advising
with
it.

He

bring

another

on

pushed

off

it

to

sitting
tialis

his

threw

which

in

rolled
down

shove,

at

swept

full
out

his

return

of

into

the

length
the

in

This
it

open

water

boat,
moonlit

did

not

his
and
the
and

sea

they
but

water,

of

rock.

the

torch,
self
him-

lighting

of

means

sufficient

was

orifice

an

was

admit

of

giving

Marfarewell

Then

cavern.

of

even

therein,

uttered

without.

the

provide

to

skiff

of

the

him

impetus

the

through
the

the

as

Guiding

echoes

hollow

and

that

boat.

torch

well

skiff

circuit

full

careful

cavern.

low

so

the

into

the

be

to

as

shallop,

the

and
in

posture

time,

deep

gave

of

which

on

out

Zeno

deep

light

the

the

torch

The

domed

and

of

the

unmoor

to

yet

or

boat

same

which

still, dark,

curiously

the

outlet

the

dimensions,

small

into

the

at

roof,

had

colour

to

the

on

lofty

the

to

which

cavern,

The

pierce

fell

refraction

landing-place

little

the

glare

which

by

blue

therein.

immersed

light

red

The

silvery

lovely

object

beside

the

of

effects

the

every

floated

stood.

lay

and

sufficient

gave

which

to

dazzling

the

wonder

and

n.

PART

he

vigorous

CHAPTER

I.

HPHOUGH

had
Quintus Fabricius
long since withdrawn
from
public life,and spent his days mainly in the
libraryof his mansion, he was not altogetherso secluded in his
habits,as to entirely
forego the societyof two or three ancient
friends and colleaguesof the busy days of politicsgone
by.
From
of one
of these,he returned
at the house
one
supper
evening at an earlyold-fashioned hour, and upon enteringhis
own

hall,was

him, that
now

man

him
awaiting

perhaps, it was
desired

by Natta, his

met

who
on

had

travelled

affair connected

some

to

steward, who

informed

for

days to see him, was

pressingbusiness. Fabricius,
thinking,

some

the visitor

ancient

be

with

distant estate,
enteringhis favourite
some

brought, and,
the fire,being

before
still deep in the
library,sat down
the
thoughts of a literarydiscussion which had raged over
in Cestus.
Natta
ushered
supper-table. In a few moments
He
looked
anxious wrinkle,
an
wore
pale and worn
; his brows
his glance was
and
and
restless.
It was
the
now
uneasy
which.
Martialis
fourth
had
on
evening following that
The
quitted him in the despoiled dwelling of Masthlion.
wind
blowing fair,and promising a speedy voyage, he had
embarked
bound
trader
for Ostia, but
on
a
contrary to
expectation the passage proved long and tedious,owing to
the wind
fallinglight and baffling. On reaching port, with
mind
a
overwrought with impatience,he posted along without
the Janiculum.
It was
on
stop, until he reached the mansion
without
of distrust he appeared before
the
amount
not
an
old
It was
ex-senator.
no
pricking of conscience for the
he had done him, but purely fear,lest he might be recognised
wrong
with the part he had
in connection
played in that
self-same

room,

at no

great distance of time

back, when

he

had

NE^ERA

384
the part of

acted
his

to

and,

the

He

his

old

terms.

own

scrutiny of Fabricius,therefore,with his

boldness,and when, after a lengthened survey,
the

met

accustomed

him

motioned

man

felt relieved with

he

'

trusted,however,

He

decoy.

which
he had ever
maintained,
appearance,
the power
to
confident that he had
worst, was

almost

the

murderous

in.

changed

at

make

PAUT

have

the

that he

assurance

for days to
travelling

business,noble Fabricius,and

that

nised.
recogbeen

I have

"

important

means

ask you

I must

business,

not

was

south
'

his

asked

and

long way from the

see
you,'said he ;

come

forward

hear it alone

to

with me.'
But

Natta

post behind

the hint and

to

has

in

confidence

my

moved

give him

did his master

; nor

steward

'My

deaf

was

any

not

from

sign to

do

everything go
"

his
so.

on!'

said Fabricius.
'

will

You

speak

knew

what
'

pardon

would

nor

I had

drew

Cestus

!'

near

him

Did

Fabricius
His

with

did receive

You

Fabricius nodded
'

Then

Cestus

drew

from

tone,

long ago, containinga

an

sudden

intent look

on

the Suburan.

emotion.

it,then

'

said Cestus.

hastily.
further message
from him who
that ribbon
and see, here is my

sent

"

Natta

depart,and

to

his breast the

he had

an

the

when

cabinet,and took therefrom

ribbon

that the

two

cut

remainingportionof the
the former pieceenclosed

the eyes of the latter fell on it,his frame

motioned
hide.
He
he could not
agitation

with

the

testily.

When

trembled

low

fixed

from which

ribbon

Fabricius.

to

man

said in

!'

warrant

faded

old

the bearer of

am

that letter and

wrote

cannot

of it?' he said.

'Well, what
'

present if you

be

to

not
letter,

started and

breast heaved

person

repliedthe

and

you not receive

'
piece of ribbon ?
'

third

say.'

leave it unsaid

Then

before

suffer another

you
to

but

me,

question.
portionswere

in

His
of

door

was

closed,he unlocked

the tablets he had

with
received,
eye had told him, at a glance,
the self-same fabric ; but, partly

CHAP.

I.

hide his

to

TALE

OF

ROME

ANCIENT

because

and
feelings,

he

385

felt he

could

scarcely

the severed
on
voice,he nervouslywent
fitting
together.
that all is right that one
'You
see
piece has been
said Cestus at length.
from the other,'
his

trust

ends

cut

"

'Who

are

Fabricius,in
in your
'
I

face

you, and what

voice which
tone

or

do

know

you

palpablytrembled.

'Something

seems

cannot

ribbon, it was

it is of

because

sent

asked

familiar to me.'

I resemble
one
any
say whether
the Suburan, with sangfroid;
noble sir,'
replied
the

this?'

of

but,touching
pattern ;

uncommon

an

know,

you
'

remember

and
thought you might
by the child,your daughter,
grandrecogniseit,as having been worn
long ago.'
for which

'

reason

could

it was

also

it ; but

remember

not

it came,
like a
the littlegarments

when

from the dead, I searched among

message
in the child's room, which
and clothing
remains
as

when

she left it,and

How

pattern.
know

; and

yet

there I found

by

it?

some

Tell

undisturbed
of the

more

came

you

me

most

it is nothingbut
likely

same

quicklywhat you
another befooling
'

another

!
fond, old man
deceptionof a foolish,
I know
well enough you have been fooled many
times,
but I know
had a proof like
just as well, that you never
this
something to see and touch
something that fits into
its proper place,in this affair,
without any denial.
This is
"

'

"

"

different
made

the

to

draw

to

and

well,and

and

tell you.'
'

Man

man

"

tricks which

tales and
from

money
I have

your

other

! if money

have

proofs,better

be your

girlis
this,to

The

coffers.

than

object,
you

specially

been

are

alive
show

in
labouring

appear firm and

in the folly,
and now

vain,'said Fabricius,
feeblyendeavouringto

resolute ; 1 have spent my

last coin
when
extreme
age is beginningto lay its hold
at last learnt
my lesson from experience. In
1

I shall be with

now

sorrows

falsehood

and

put
so

for that I

"

an

take
'

your
to such

end
care

It is

fathers

my

"

there will be

wait.

If you
opportunityis gone.

can

now

and
deception,

claim

are

on

I have

me,

no

great time

an

end

bent

on

of my

extortion

Nay more, I will

the help of justice
"

!'

pityyou

never

did
2

so
c

before,'said Cestus.

'

Had

NEMRA

386
you done so, you
would have saved

PART

somethingwhich

learnt

have
might possibly

in.

and
you no end of bother, disappointment,
However, all that you shall learn presently. I have
money.
something to ask of you, it is true ; but I ask it on condition

that you fulfilyour promise,only,when

you are fullysatisfied
how certain I must
be
see
and claim your grandchild. You
offer such terms.'
I can
when
'

What

is it you

'

That

you

give me

go unharmed

by you
services,
you

of

my
fair return
'

possiblemy
Suburan
coolly.
have

If you

without

your

own

liberality.'
keep you safe and
action would

your
'

her

wronged

everythingshall

and

to

consider

you

highestdegree?
you hear the historyof the whole affair,
not
please you,' said the
part in it may

it is

'

I leave

with what

me

to

me

that,in consideration

else,and

in the

merciful

and

Because, when

'

any one
will reward
or

allow

promise,to

to guarantee to
you wish me
What
necessityfor this,when

do

unharmed

solemn

your

the amount

"

Why

be kind

'

ask ?

guarantee

or

'Then, in that

be

or

me

you

from

wrung

shall be
as

you,

punished,
deserve,

you

reward.'
case,

I will go

no

further; and

shall

you

missinggrandchildagain,simply for
she is,and
who
and where
the reason, that I, alone, know
I desire to serve
I, alone, hold the proofs of the same.
time, I will not thrust
myselfas well as you ; but, at the same
Without
promise
myself into danger on that account.
your
she
safe
in writingI will say nothing, except this,that
was
and well until four days ago, when
something occurred which
understand
she has
has put her in some
danger you must
at much
grown
up tall and comely. I have, therefore,come
see

never

hear

or

of your

"

and

cost

in
fatigue,

present is
and
'

see

to

must

more

and

to you

envied,and

the

her.

sooner

situation

Her
we

to

come

at

terms

her welfare the better.'

know

more

than

this

this is

only
is,perhaps,more
"

heard,save, that it
in a great tremor.
said Fabricius,
plausible,'
proofs show me that I may place faith in

others
and

to be

not

mercy

I have

"

will find that I shall not

that is fair and

be behindhand

reasonable.'

with

tale like

ingenious
'

you,

you

in

Give

me

and

you

anything

CHAP.

I
'

the child

is it not
'

said

he
impostor,'

no

was

enough ?

she

taken

was

away

here"

from

'

Fabriclus.

! ' answered

No

to see
enough for any man
length,pointingat the ribbons ;

at

those when

wore

little.

been

have

thought it would

mused

and

387

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

knit his brows

Cestus
'

TALE

i.

in any way commit

paper will not
to fulfilyour
you will not undertake
you, Fabricius ; for,in it,
promise, till you are satisfied that I have done my part in
'

such

give me

To

the business.'
'

nothing without

I will do

trifled with

it !

let that end

"

further

Very well,then,in consideration

whom
I have a regard,I will giveway
determined,in order that she may not

girl,for
young
pointfrom what I had

be sacrificed

"

would ruin all. If I

your stubbornness
when
clothes she wore
you lost her,even

'

'

'

'

'

Yes, if they satisfied me

Good
Have
No

they

what

'

will set

Cestus, and he left the

As

soon

wine, with

as

he

the

door

which

him

allow

not

Once

apartment.
stood

Both

entered

of your promise,
doing. You may send
I shall know

return

that

one

failed.'

your

doubts

at

rest,'
replied

the

poured
patrician

and

drank
which

was
as

to

rest, so

or

whilst

twice

it to

out

brace

some

his

possessed it.
he wandered
he

listened

up
at

aged
His
and
the

doing so, heard the sound

his visitor returningwith Natta at
before,but the suspicioussteward

ajar,and,
It

surrenderingmyself

wish.'

tremor

nervous

returningsteps.

his side.

gone,

tremblinghand,

would
agitation

room.

was

against the

down

do not

Cestus, with

assurance

has
credulity

my

minutes

few

'A

if you

me

If you

on

the

intention of

no

along with

attempt

with

now,

I had

'

in the habit of

not

am

with you ? '

far away,'said
not

are

but

alone.

Go

more

of

being hers.'

bring them

them

not

you
but

I will

then

"

slaves

frame

amulet, would

an

them ?
you know
the amulet.'
I would know

I will do

'

to

the

'

as

Would

completely;

your

bring you

to

were

otherwise

'

cunninggrin.
so

?
writing

the

giveme

then
'

not

am

for the

'

you

that I

assurance

'

NE^RA

388

againreceived

PART

sign to withdraw.

the

Cestus

advanced

TIT.

to the

table,beside which Fabricius has reseated himself,and

thereon a bundle, carefully
wrapped up and tied.
'

These

the

are

he said,and
traps,'

parcel. Taking
them
The
in

his

here is

'Yes, yes
'

on

them

with

the

played
dis-

But

devouring eagerness.

finger-tip
againstan

little linen

underclothes,

take it.'

ownership,I

of
!

of

one

!' cried Fabricius

the amulet

'tis,'
repliedthe

Here

open
child he

strange inarticulate cry, seized them

Cestus, layinghis broad

mark

mark

of

tiny garments

examined

and

hands,

embroidered
'

with

man,

See 1' said

'

the

proceeded to

the table.

on

old

the

out

laid

Suburan,

feverishly.

drawing from

his bosom

littlesoft leather bag, having a fine steel chain attached.

His

companion pounced
into

agate, carved

the

curious

into

it,and

on

shape of
the palm.

an

plucked

out

small

hand, bearing a

open

symbol cut
He
gazed on it for a few moments, with his wrinkled face
he pressed it convulsively
to his lips,
twitching. Then
and,
his
his
in
face
the
buried
child's
head,
sinking
garments on
hairs with both
the table,huddlingthem
up againsthis silvery
arms.

Cestus, anxious

and

impatientas

he was,

raised his head

and

forbore

to

break

the silence.

lengthFabricius

At

voice, I
'

friend

"

'

old

and

you must
the sightof these triflestries me
am

Drink
wine

an

!' said

man

a cup
Cestus, filling

excuse

my

broken

weakness,

hard.'
'

there is

nothinglike

Forget what has passed and think

the good time that is coming to wipe it out.'
on
'Thanks!'
answered
Fabricius,taking the cup with an
which
tion
invitaFill yourselfalso a draught,'
unsteady hand.
Cestus obeyed, nothing loth.
little maid/ he
Here's to the speedy restoration of your

good

to

cheer

in

spoke

one.

'

'

said,and bottomed
trifles are

these
you,

which,

must

you
certain items

the cup.

'

Now,

reallygenuine,and

as

that

are

you
I

am

satisfied that
not

deceiving

that little document

; after
you to write me
shall know
the whole
story, which will contain
ask

which

will astonish

you

without

doubt'

CHAP.

Fabricius

ANCIENT

ROME

Cestus

put it away
'

Thanks

equally;

hands, in which

I may fall into other

I will commence
be useful.

might

will startle

poured

He

rewarded,
suitably

grandchild.

then

and
beginning,

which

the

slowly
personalsafety
wrote,

perused the document, and, findingit satisfactory,

in his breast.
carefully
I value, and
! thanks !
rely upon
your word

but

this paper

and

his efforts

restoration of his
the satisfactory

upon

389

writingmaterials
undertaking,
by which
assured,and

be

would

of Cestus

OF

his

reached

a brief
painfully,

and

the

TALE

I.

brace

you may

and

yourself
up

case

tell you

to hear

from

something

you.'
and drank

out

some

wine,and

more

then

began

his declaration.

porch,here
your own
and
the Janiculum,fifteen years ago, all but three months
on
three days if you have the day marked, consult it,and you
will find I am
right.'
'

little maid

Your

stolen

was

from

"

Givinga
the

fingersof
'You

'None

enticed

well

so

related the

narrative

an

the

from

inward

other,'you

culation
cal-

come

The

conviction

of

of the

been

house,the

away, until
minuteness

extreme
to

shall learn.'

the child had

porch

hidden

been

not
extraordinary

too

was

with

mental

'how
finally;

in which

manner

Surrentum.

to

the

I,'returned

as

snapped away
places she had

removal

with

count

this?'

and

various

said

without doubt,'he
right,

then

He

mind

one

are

know

to

you

Fabricius
surprise,
began to
the table,
assist a
hand
to
on

of

start

her

final

of

the

impress his listener's

its truth,but, as
our

alreadyacquaintedwith its tenor, it need not be

here.
recapitulated
is full of potters,'
said
Yes, noble Fabricius,Surrentum
Cestus, concluding, and with one of them, called Masthlion,
and his wife Tibia,was
finally
lodged your littlemaid ; and,
with them, a childless pair,she has grown
up well cared for
reader

is

'

'

tended, as I know well. She thinks herself their child to

this hour, and it is time you took her to your own
Her
nest.
and

poor
name

feathers cannot

hide

her

breed.

She

is known

by

the

of Neaera.'

Fabricius

sat

lookingat

the

Suburan

with

the torture

of

NE^ZRA

39""

his

mind

imprinted on

permit such

cruel

deeds

face.

pale

?' said he ;

'

do

'Why

for what

TII.

the

gods

was

this

reason

'

wickedness
'

his

PART

?
perpetrated

Money,' said

Cestus.

Money !' echoed Fabricius,

leapingto his feet in horror;
'was she sold,then,for a slave?'
'Not
at
all,'replied the Suburan
quietly;'cannot you
understand
?
Money has been at the bottom of it all. You
have
of it,and the child was
an
amount
enormous
in some
one's way.
Once
out of it,and then who
next ?
comes
Why
do you see ?
now
your lovingnephew, Afer
'

'

"

'

so

Fellow, what

much

as

take

"

'

More

the

upon

Do

dare

you

honestyof

to

cast

knight

relative

"

even

!'

care

kidnapped.'

was

!'

Fellow

'It is true
that he

mean

that,your honour, I say it was no other,and

other,than your nephew, T. Domitius Afer,that

child
'

you

than

through no
your

doubt

of mine ?

do

enough.

might be

your

He

her

wanted

heir.

For

out

that end

the

ot

he hired

so
way
certain

for a comfortable sum

individual,
now
to
alive,
put her aside,
that she might never
so
be heard of.'
more
I'llnot believe it,'
cried the old patrician
hoarsely
; 'it must
be proved
where is that wretch whom
you say he hired?'
What
would you do with him supposingI brought him ?
I fortyyears younger
Were
I would
limb from
tear him
'

"

'

'

'

limb with
but the

my

justiceof

'Neither

hands

own

"

by

your
child !'

sweet

Fabricius

nothing remains

now

to

me

the law.'

the

one

the

nor

reach at this moment,

your

but

nephew
stood

for I
I

"

am

is within

other, although he
the

am

the

dumfounded

man

for

man

who
who

took

moment,

employed

was

away

and

your

his jaw

fell.
Then

the

blood

rushed

wrath, and, with

to

his face ; his eyes flamed

with

he confronted
Cestus.
stride,
Dog !' he shouted hoarsely,as he clutched the Suburan
with a grasp which was
with the vigourof youth.
inspired
But Cestus, in no way disconcerted,
calmly pulled out the

terrible

'

written guarantee from

his bosom

and

held it up.

The

old

ANCIENT

OF

for
eyed it,hesitatingly,

man

his hands
with

TALE

I.

CHAP.

391
; then

brief moment

tottered back

and

ROME

chair,wherein

his

to

dropped
sank

he

groan.
have
'You

Cestus, in
now

and

lower

without

move

amends.

for

just cause

After

and

all I

will do

not

am

but

all I

much

so

it,'said

admit
'

tone
respectful

more

me,

and

anger,

idle

make

to

can

blame

to

cannot

you

as

your
I
see

vagabond you
don't attempt to hide myself dwelling in the Subura, and
with a handsome
your lovingnephew, Titus Afer, tempted me
I was
this thing. Only, mark
to put the
to do
sum
you
that is to say, I was
to strangle
child clean out of the way
her, drown
her, kill her in the best and quietest way
that

At

nephew.

time

was

an

"

"

"

"

his

possible.'Fabricius hid
what
I was
was
paid to
"

job would
intended,and
But

bad

and

to

as

you

would

I was,

there

his turn

most

have

been

never

left yet

was

that is owing the

life of the

bring myself to hurt her; and,

but what she might be useful to
out

that

now

but

one,

wise.

was

is

livingone

that

will,therefore,see

had

comfortable

Fabricius

was

income

seemed

too

of its

beyond

were

is of

no

know

It

turns

to

use

the present time.

at

any
You

deceive

worshipful
your
she was, and
I told him
was

his

nothing but
own
pocket

"

it was.'

ashen

He

pale.

rose

Such

unsteadilyto his
terrible deception

to

detail,the

delivery above

doubt.

did

what

dence
his trustful nature, and yet the eviIts
explainedaway.
weightyto be easily

great perfectnessof
manner

that,

soft spot in my heart,

I couldn't
little maid.

child

to

overwhelmed.

feet,and his face was

was
scarcelycredible

done

had

nephew. He thinks she is dead, as

all his pretended help in searchingfor her
of it,into
Your
blind.
went, most
money
and

'That

"

in the future.

me

dead

hands.

he
as
effectually,
the wiser,perhaps.

moreover,

vastlyso

"

his

do, and, if I

served

have

the

in

face

"

Yet

he

unhesitatingbusiness-like

all,the clothes and

eyed

the

man

before

amulet
him

"

with

to
which,
distrust,
contempt, and indignation,
was
however, the Suburan
utterlyindifferent.
to me
have impelled you to come
Tell me
what reasons
in hollow
said Fabricius,
and confess all this villainy,'
now

unconcealed

'

tones.

NEMRA

392

'

Because

And

amends,'

some

sorry for what

repliedCestus.

am

for this

in.

PART

did, and

wish

make

to

penitenceyou

require to be paid,'rejoined
the other, with witheringscorn
by your own
;
showing you
have made
for committing a desperate sin,and
terms
have
probably extorted every sesterce possiblein that direction;
now
to extort
more
you betray your accomplice,and come
'

from

under

me,
'

I have

twist it

as

but for me,

mask

righteousness.'
nothing but the truth,and
you
bear
like,'
repliedCestus, unmoved
;
a

of

told

you
in

'

you
there would

have

been

child

no

may

mind,

all to welcome

at

back.'
'

I have

'

The

show,

generosityI

own

your

that
itself,

to be

not

are

am

leave

for him

store

paid me

down

one

left for dead.

He

for

ever

But

and

so

hard
had

safe.
well

left in
to

he

it is not

But

Your

nephew,

I have

myself
"

in
surprises
the girlhe

two

is confronted

the

after his

me,

rascal than

more

to

with

the

other,when his eyes fall on me, whom

night,not long since,in the streets,and
thought,when he did that,his secret was
I was
picked up with a hole in my side,
in

tended

fightof it,I

fared,and

when

one,

and
kill,

to

struck

"

live,and

must

with
scurvily

he is.

your side,
is enough

on

That

payment.
here.

am

very
times

hundred

the

cowardly dog, knightas

mean,

he

is

He

carried out,

your bargaia
in earnest.
I

altogetherthat for which I

worshipfulknight,has dealt
nature.

that,so far.'

for

satisfied with

are

of

word

made

terms

until you
to

only your

house

round.

came

I
I

Surrentum, and

pick up strength.

waiting and watching in

and her husband,
sister,
They have loved her like

my
the

take

can

stole away
I have been

potter,who

to

how

see

girl
she

for weeks,
living
;

for it

took

child,and

own

of the

bethought me

sister'shouse

their

to, that,after

you

her

was

from

she treats

my
me.

them

her parents, for she knows

nothingto the contrary. Watch
well your nephew, therefore,when
he first sets eyes on
me
his
if
conscience
don't visibly
trouble him it will be strange.
But there is more
yet to be told you, and we are wastingtime.
as

"

When

bad

state.

some

new

came

away,
Masthlion

kind

of

matters

had

glasshe

in my
gone
had

to

sister's house

Capreae, to

discovered.

He

in

were

show
was

Caesar
a

fool

CHAP.

him

it cost

and

TALE

I.

humour

ROME

ANCIENT

his life; for he found

him

reward

to

OF

with

bed

the

393

bloody tyrant in
of the

the bottom

at

the
sea.

that,a gang of slaves,from the palace,I suppose,

arrived after dark, and sacked the house, and took off

And

than

more

she has
understand
You
must
girlback with them.
which
uncommon
good looks,and is good prey for this island,
is no place for her.
there is for
what reason
Now
you know
haste to protect her.
I could
do nothing; but you are
a
and powerful,and to you Caesar will listen.'
patrician
the

'

say

told

Alas, you
Tiberius

has

indeed

dead,

which

you

she

alive and

was

carried her

cried

news?'

good

me

off to

well,and

you
is this your
his hands.
'Better

his island

Fabricius,wringing

now

"

bauched
of that desay, than left to the mercy
old man
! Four days since you left,
and as long for
to go
me
thither,what hope is there ? Why did you not
bringher away at once ? Here, in this house, the house from

words,
then
a

or

dash

say you took her, you

damned
yourselffor ever.

hope

death
living
'

I should

"

away.
Oh !'

Alive

might
You

ay, but

"

if

proved your
bid me
hope, and
alive,most likelyin
have

moment/ said Cestus soothingly,the danger is

great ; but yet I have hope. I have not told you that the
maid has caught the eye of a youth,and they are betrothed.
I had a suspicionthat something ill was
brewing to the girl,
and they will bear witness that I did my
utmost
to persuade
them to come
at once, where
to Rome
she might be in safety
;
but they flatly
refused to move
until the potter came
back
from the island.
did come
He never
back, but in his place
the slaves,who tore the girl
But soon
after they
came
away.
had gone, arrived the youth who has fallen in love with her.
He is a centurion,and was
to the island
postingfrom Rome
with despatches,
and him
I told who
she was, and bade him
Caesar
her
not
warn
to harm
I said I would
go straight
and bring you, and now
the matter
rests with yourself.'
And
the name
of the youth you say is betrothed to her?'
Stay

'

"

'

'

He

is

centurion

of the Pretorian

Guard, and his

name

is Martialis.'
'What?'

shouted

round
gods have woven
a Pretorian
Martialis,
"

in
'am
I living
Fabricius,
?
me
did you
Martialis,
tall above

the

common

'

dream

say

"

the

Lucius

NEMRA

394

'

The

same

and

name,
'

Oh,

chosen

of my

son

not

when

you

in.

spoke

your

child.'

the

"

of all I

man

would

have

old

playmate! Alas, alas,the more

unhappy and hopeless the case ! Do you
has been flung into a dungeon,
man
young

say, the more

know
that the

you

know

to

said you had lost

wonder
of heaven

the

"

he seemed

"

PART

'

awaitingperhaps his death ?

how could
By Pluto,no
'

I?'

"

It

'

is

here, in

cried

letter received

Cestus, aghast.

this

nephew,'repliedFabricius,taking an
its contents.
Listen
and glancingdown

morning

from
a

my
drawer

took

such

epistlefrom
'

'

By the way, the

fancy,has fallen

'
"

sudden

in his

beardingCaesar
had

who

been

death

means

The

into

Martialis,for whom

own

the

to

you

of the

disgraceand one
of
hall,in pursuit

brought off
in

palace dungeons,for
of his,
a wench, a sweetheart
it
island,I believe,by force. Of course

shape or other.'

some

face
and

Centurion

of Cestus

he folded

dark and

grew

his

arms

as

cloud,
thunder-

his chest without

across
'

sullen

word.

Fabricius,the extremityof
and indignationwith
distress breaking down
the repugnance
which he regarded his companion.
the
Suburan
luck
'The
seems
against us,' answered
At any rate,
'he must
have played the rash fool.
bitterly;
'

is to

What

All

statement.

and

make

be, I

may

your
'

done

that I

letter shows

your

at

be

the best of
can

prove

who

bad

get there

job.

she

I make

be believed when

is to

do
a

said

to

am

can

we

fast

as

we

as

can

plightthe girl

In whatever

is,and you

you

have

can

your

fling

dutiful

nephew.
muttered
consolation,'

Fabricius

poor
until
I fathom
rest

'

but

I cannot

it for nothing but

this strange story ; were
seek admittance
the sake of this unfortunate Martialis I would

to

Caesar, who

before
'

dawn
have

"

is

not

unknown

made
make

me

will start

personally.We

until then.'
you will remain here in the house
have
wish to go 'elsewhere,if I may
some
no
bed, for I am tired out.'

supper and a
Fabricius called Natta
care, but not

to

before the

and

handed

articles

on

Later on
up and locked away.
instructed
his report, and was

over

the Suburan

the table

were

the steward
to

be careful

once

to his
more

appeared to
not

to allow

i.

the

visitor

was

further

and

rapid

his

reasons,

minute

him.

The

before

he

air

an

which

thread

'

L.

From

"

for

possible,

this

Erase

you.

'

litter

My

with

The

to

him

and

immediately
sudden

prepared
of
he

flung
knees.

to

The

another's.

sealed

"

at

me

will

bearer

if

once,

conduct

go

with

the

of

bearer

this,'

cried

energy.

his

hurried

"

his

mine

master,

the

following

Come

once.'

stamp

angry

Fabricius

on

at

steward

stopped

and

sake

"

Fabricius

an

your

the

arrived.

just

have

Martialis.

inside

read

and

missed
dis-

gone

his

to

broke

Fabricius

dignity.

it,

bound

letter

any

and
been

scarcely

handed

and

returned,

had

old

an

him

give

to

long

of

peremptorily

very

official

offended

injured

of

short

for

license

the

daring

Not

him

cut

master

with

Natta,

expostulate.

to

readiness

in

he

however,

When,

everything

southward,

journey

395

house.

the

have

to

ROME

ANCIENT

from

away

ordered

began

servant,

with

slip

to

OF

TALE

CHAP.

the

to

open

master's

his

mouth

foot,

and

the

fire

once

flash

but

more,

of

his

eye

away.
tablets

into

and

sank

trembling

CHAPTER

who

to

wharves

of the

sailors,and
the ships and

under

tavern

the

of

the bearer

was

Tiber

the

and
litter,

got into his curtained

T^ABRICIUS
*

11.

the

youth,

led the way

Aventine, in the

summons,

Mount

across

heart

teeming haunts of
livelihood depended on
whose
the thousands
the quays of the busy
which
crowded
commerce
warehouses, of the

and

river.

Here, in

an

of

whom

the

presence

the

stranger removed

one

Martialis, he

as

did

he

peruke,

old

the

room,

upper

hastened

him

embrace

to

himself

reared

into

but when

recognise
;

not

and

brought

was

man

upright,
a
glad

with

cry.
It will be

during

the

needless

they remained
Fabricius,alreadymuch
hours

two

the emotion

of

that the narrative of the

as

heard

that he had
he

when

and

put his hand

which

he

what

recount

to

had

Centurion

from

Cestus, so

into his bosom

the

tried.

the same
substantially
far as
regarded Nesera

solemnly drew

and

of his

hand

there

resemblance?

article,

an

It

companion.

was

an

face,graved
times.

cried

start!'

you

"

he
inquiry,

out

cornelian,the likeness of a woman's

on
intaglio
art unapproached in modern
with an exquisite
it he started in surprise.
Martialis saw
'Is

perceived

He

ingenuityof

his fond

exhausted

placed in

was

them
passed between
together; or to portray

When

Fabricius

breathlessly.
'So

great, that

face,'repliedthe young
who, then?'
not

Fabricius

was

reply for

some

so

'

man

overcome

moments.

trace

to

seem

yet it cannot

and

with
At

Nesera

extreme

herself
be

joy that

last,in tremulous

in

the

herself"

he could

tones, he

CHAP.

TALE

ir.

ANCIENT

OF

ROME

397

said, It is her mother's picture done before her marriage

the
If she be like this,then I shall know
not long before.
again. O boy, what a strange
child,and so get my own
working of the gods is here ! That I should lose my littlemaid,
and, after long years, you, the son of my old friend,should
'

"

"

love her all

unknowingly.'
nothing strange in my lovingher,'
it was
only wonderful that I should have
having seen her and spoken to her,
is

there
Nay, Fabricius,

'

Martialis ;
her, of all women

returned
met

'

old

late

travel

cannot

smiled,and

man

It grows

"

infallibly.'

the rest followed

The

'

rose

go.
I will start

to-morrow

"

to

rapidlyas yourself,
my

as

for Surrentum.

the

Lucius,and, by

time you reach Capreae, I shall have done

no
with
have arrived at my journey'send, though
'
Farewell !
Let not
Cestus nor
one
any

than

more

to

days'start.'

two

know

of

my

said the Centurion.

presence,'

home, and on the morrow,

though
the southern
later than he had given orders for,he set out on
road,with Cestus, Natta,and a retinue of slaves.
Fabricius

went

at
Martialis,

receive the

away

the

out

also

of the

second

tedious

day, went

Caesar's epistle,
and, after

to

answer

set
carefully,

end

on

to

securingit

his return.

morning followingthis,about dawn, Zeno

him
found
entered his cell in the villa Neptune, and
lying
fast asleepon his bed.
He
and reported
went
away at once
himself proceeded with little
the same
to the Emperor, who
delay to visit the returned prisoner.
When
still asleep,and received
he entered,the latter was
On

shake
'

the second

the shoulder

on

So, you

have

Imperialhand.
Martialis

his eye
Good
! ' he

ran
'

paper;
?

leapt

'

saluted ; the letter.'

Martialis ripped the cloth of his inner garment
the despatch. Caesar stepped aside and broke

and

the

the

returned,'said Tiberius,as

to his feet and

out

from

over
briefly
with
said,

'have

you

and
the

took

seal,

the contents.

brightened eye, as he rolled up

in keeping yourselfunresucceeded
cognised
a

'

'

well,Caesar,for anythingI
Perfectly
I entered
and came
repliedMartialis.

know

'

away

to the

from

contrary,'
the

city

39?

NEALRA

nightfall, and

at

'

city.

the

what

You

of

'So

visits

the

to

of

that

is the

she

she

but

was
'

'As

the

It

opposite

side

perfectly

little

is

be

can

Fabricius,

of

better

of

well

doubt

the

to

as

satisfactorily proved
stolen

from

him

when

as

for

in

you

every

way

how

"

do

you

'

it ?

prove

be

the

often

not

say,

commission

my

disguise.'

my

you

there

child.'

soon

should

as

from

there

Caesar,

grandchild

to

propose

out

betrothed.

much

So

in, and,

in

where

in.

business?'

you,

my

especially

"

comrades

carried

Navalis,

Porta

lodged

your

own

please

identity

of

have

your

be

to

part

the

near

recognition

of

savoury

liable

"

chance

small

was

lodged

PART

in

Surrentum

does

that

Fabricius

wish.

you

ere

has

with

now,

left

those

Rome,

and

'can

who

give

testimony.'
'And
?

nephew
'

said

'Ah!'

friends,

old

'

'

be

to

Asinius,

friend
I

be

to

man

is

He

foresee

whom
an

'And

send

this
found

found,

worthy

betrothed,

my

'I

am

and

more

Fabricius

aged

Where

myself.

his

and
in

the

town

'

be

to

heard

proposed

the

irony,

the

matter

interesting
to

grim
for

or

he

Tiberius, turning

said

will

administer

and

with

Tiberius,

interested.

is the

the

does.'

It

more

incriminate

still

testimony

'

to

scene

of,

at

the

villa

of

his

visit.'
no

"

time

must

be

lost,'

door.

Caesar

is

she

well?'

said

the

her

well.

"

lover.
'

They

For

aught

would

know

"

they

scarcely disobey.'

had

my

orders

to

tend

CHAPTER

III.

by Tiberius for the

Livia
of his
the
to
daughter-in-law
intention of dining and
passing the
had

following day
THEformal
betrothal

been

fixed

Prefect; and with the

night at the villa Neptune, so as to
the Imperial lady set out
ceremony,
own
palace, attended
by a numerous
command

had

the latter.
among
The
past few
Her

with

received

been

form

had

of

mental

excess

suffered,she was
sightof her lover

had

days

wrought

death.

transferred

This

for.

After

be

an

thin

was

ance.
appearand wan

Martialis

as

the

at

had

agonising

away

sleeplessnight of horror, she was

the dwellingof Livia,where
to
she was
well cared
important lady was
verging toward middle age;

of somewhat

was

face

her

Neaera

to
by the soldiers,
ignominiouspunishment,or

torn

protector

in

her

special

unhappy

change

overwhelmed

more

what, she concluded, would

perhaps

the

affliction. Much

even

and

retinue.

her

and

for the

thitherwards, from

include

to

wasted,

in readiness

be

masculine

full of ambition

acquaintedwith

and
appearance,
intended
husband.

her

as

Neaera's

her

story, even

haughty and

as

But, being duly

proud

could

nature

help unbending with pity. The

girl'sbeauty also
impressed her, and she placed her in attendance
on
herself,
her to lay aside her poor
and
caused
homely garments for
suitable
more
apparel.
not

The
bent
should

Prefect,when

admiring
dare

of my

his

Centurions

straight. He

on

is

"

fashion
but

curious

was
came,
her.
'It

much,' he

so

after

eyes

he

said

something

to

me

as

to
'

women.

courage

; I will

well

see

wonder

no

not
gallantly,

before

have

is

to

as

He

put
to

her

and

Martialis

say

quently,
grandilo-

is the

best

this matter
you.

They

NE"RA

4""

have

him

penned
knows

He

With

up, but I will have him

safe,so take heart.'

you are
mind
dazed

Neaera

PART

and

thankful

was

one
standing,

Prefect who

had

for the

of them

spoken

encouragingwords

heart at the words.

like

at

in the

time

the

empire.

to

her.

time, concerninghim

the

mighty personage'sown
into hope.
Another
father

Her

been

where

"

told?

not

fail but

so,

at

the

her with

he ?

own

rough

and

two

all

knowledge

cases, her

of him

high position.

with
at

learned

at

her

something

that

moment

much,

from

coming from
her

once

agony

of suspense.
intensity
sick or dyingas she had

an

he

Was

this

of

fell from

the assurance,

respectingthe potter.

either denied
or

; and

had

of

ill

weighed

upon

forcible abduction

impress her mind with a sense

first opportunity,she began

information

one

she

mysteriousdread

details of her

The

In

was

great load

lips,changed

haunted

sorrow

long.

group of attendants
her that it was
the

gazed back
powerfulman

Martialis

From

the

of

one

She

feared and

most

some

whispered to

to

thankful
awe

ere
liberty

at

ing,
only half-conscious through suffer-

she surmised to be
personage, whom
When
she fell back
to where
were

in.

of
her

Those
or

gave

her.
could

evil-doing,

some

efforts to obtain
whom

she

evasive

were
strong suspicions

asked

answers.

aroused

that

actual

manner
knowledge was not wanting,by the hesitating
in which
than
made.
More
was
a
ever
negative answer
alarmed
of those
manner
by the confused and embarrassed
who seemed
to falter before her earnest
gaze, her acute anxiety
her to speak to Livia herself. The lady
at lengthemboldened
received the applicationcondescendingly,and promised that
the same
should be made
at the palace. Later
on
inquiries
known
to her the fact
Neaera and made
day she summoned
death.
He had been taken ill with a sudden
of the potter's
and had only lived a few hours afterward.
and strange sickness,

Such

were

the fatal words

which

fell on

and, after the firstgust of wild griefhad

the stricken

girl's
ears,

passed away,

ing
brood-

melancholy possessedher. Her lover was a close prisoner,

The
of Caesar.
whose fate hung on the whim
gentle,simpleloved and
she had filially
minded, sweet-natured potter,whom
revered with all the strengthof her nature, being also reft from
of her sorrow
the burden
sapped the beauty
her, no wonder

CHAP.

TALE

in.

swiftlyfrom
She knew

her

OF

ANCIENT

eyes and thin cheeks.

removed
to the villa Neptune,

stillthere,so, when

and, by the last report,was

her heart bounded

and
thither,
and the melancholy
journeyitself,

her eyes brightened.The

satisfaction that at each step she
her

restore

But

manner.

to
vivacity
when
no
delight,
after
her,not long

colour to her cheek

more

what

her unutterable

was

and

Zeno, the steward,appearedbefore

her arrival,
where
and led her away into a room
to

receive her.

With

thankfulness and relief she sprang

locked

were

in each

an

lover,did

her

nigherto

was

other than

waitingalone

received

she

Livia

to accompany

somethingto

401

face,leavinghollow

that Martialis had been

intimation

ROME

she

Tibia

saw

indescribable cry of

forward,and the

other's fast embrace.

Neaera

two

women

shocked

was

the ravages which afflictionhad wrought in her mother's

widow, on her part, scanned
appearance, and the heartbroken
to see

the

pale

face

When

Nesera

taken

away

of her

had
from

turn, to speak of
and

reverenced.

her

husband, her

fosterchild with

related her

since
experiences,

her

she

home,
and
herself,
But
voice

as

led Tibia

of him

the dame

broke

down

at

the

at

pity.

she had

been

gently,in

on

they had
came

and

tenderness

looked

so

her

up to,

lengthto mention

word, and she got

no

all that was

in their hearts was
They said no more
merged in silent weeping. The wonder of Nesera was no less
than her joy at the presence of the dame
in the island,
but the
latter seemed
loth to give any explanation
thereof,and tried to
from the subjectas often as it was
turn
put.
Nesera,at last,
pressedthe matter in an unavoidable manner.
how
Mother,' she said, you have not yet told me
trived
you conDid they bringyou away as they brought
to get here.

further.

"

'

'

me
was

'

did you
strange if you
Or

No

"

came

come
were

with

of your own
able to enter

accord

'

her eyes
with emotion.

her breast

seek

me

It

here alone.'

others,'said Tibia.

She stoppedand
everything.'

to

turned

You
to

shall know
the

floor,and

began to heave
A dull,
chill horror sank into Nesera's heart.
mind
Her
was
through
prone to fear,being overchargedand susceptible
dark
and
long
brooding.
she
!'
Speak
whispered. What new trouble is this ? Tell
'

me

"

'

I
The

can

old

bear it.'
woman

into the

glanced up
2

face,and, divingirl's

NESERA

402

ing the signs of

caressingly.
'

It is

there, took

dwelt

her

hand

'

she faltered.
thank the gods,'
We
trouble,
call it rather ness
happiplenty of that. Nay, I must

no

had

have

which

terror

new

'

'

Ah,

terrible of
as

about
tell me
to
thought you were
something
murmured
Lucius,'
Nesera, drawing a deep breath,

great load, like the shadow

a
'

No

death, slid from her mind.

It is of yourself. It is time you must
know
all,'

said Tibia.

'

Child,you

hardly needs

It

to

her

call

never

tell the start

to

gave at these words.

wistfulness of the dame's
struck

must

of

mother

me

more.'

any

surprisewhich

of

Neaera

the strange
Through her amazement,
glanceand her broken, pathetictones
She
threw
her arms
around
her aged

heart

neck.
is it you
look like that ? What
'

as

What

well ?
For

Mother
some

saying?

are

is it I

you

am

to

are, and

Tibia

moments

'

she

know

cried.
?

Am

always must
remained

Why

do

you

I to lose mother

be.'

in silence

within

the

if unable to force herself from the

of the young
as
girl,
warmth
of what might be the last heartfelt,
caress.
daughterlike

arms

Then

at

she did

length she slowlyupliftedthe shapelyarms, and, as

whilst the
hand of the girlto her lips,
so, pressedone

trickled down

her eyes.
'
the
Nesera,'she said,' I have lost my husband, and now
I have tended you,
gods will that you shall be taken from me.
watched
but, Nesera,
you, and loved you like a mother ; but
tears

from

"

we

thought the time

never

you that
stock
I
"

"

They

would

come,

nor

yet the need

that you are not our child. For I have been

bore a child into the world.'
never
sat

looking at

each

other.

Tibia,with

to

tell

barren

pleading,

in her
timid expression

girlcould

not

meek
the tender-hearted
eyes, which
and
incredulity
withstand,
despiteher speechless

ings
that the dame's sufferthought for the moment
and
then, as with
had, perhaps,deranged her faculties,
two
recalled one
and swift ray of light,
her mind
sudden
or
a
hitherto.
She
which had puzzled her strangely
circumstances
remembered
that day just as Cestus first appeared in the
on
addressing the potter as father,
workshop at home, when
in the negativewith all the evidences of powerful
he replied
wonder.

She

CHAP.

emotion.
the
of

ROME

in

and
explanation,
presentlysunk out

added

ever

403

had
hasty disavowal of relationship
other matters,
active speculationbeneath

thoughtof
he

been

had

Nothing

ANCIENT

OF

TALE

in.

hurried

was

wild

away

from

utterance, but, in the

fallen unheeded.
I

not

"

did it all

What

Tibia,in
You

their

had

also

?
'

are

Do

you
forgettingalas,this
"

'

for you to bear !

child,but it is not so,'returned

"

I know

of

moment

child,mother,'she said slowly.

your

what

'

of

thoughts,they

mean

saying? You
you are
it has been too much
cruel trouble
know

the

at

ears

of her

agony

of

presence

her

to
inexplicable

and

'

the

as
Martialis,
Caesar,had been

frantic words

Again,the

more.

no

been

had

and

what

you mean,
low voice ; ' it is true, indeed,I never
was
a mother.
brought to us a little thing a very little thing by

were

"

"

We never
or heard of
saw
Cestus,my brother,for safe-keeping.
him again tillthis present visit. We
thought he must be dead,
be claimed ; so we looked
and that you, therefore,
would
never
you as
What

upon

our

and

own,

else could

never

have

we

wise.
otheryou to know
done ?
He told us you were
he
without kith or kin. Now
allowed

poor man's child

is here
has come
Your grandfather
to claim you.
is neither poor nor
He
He
mean.
great house.

an

orphan

and

"

wealthy nobleman,
know

not

he

"

ever

"

from

in

boy

is

you a great lady. Alas, we

a wicked
thing; but idle and

and

Cestus has done

was

in this

now

our

father's

great
did
evil

cottage.'

listeningas in a dream.
motionless,
The blood surged like a fiery
flood through her veins,and then
fled back as suddenly,leavingher cold and
pale as death.
in a whirl,and her ideas were
Her mind
was
helplessly
tossing
in a hurly-burly
of confusion.
It was
pardonable,in the first
of strange wonder, that her wild but vivid thoughts
moments
flew to the future.
amid humble
what
Reared
a
associations,
flooded
her dizzying
world of hopes,ideas,and
new
curiosity
Neaera

sat silent and

brain with sensations here

father

nor

"

awaitingher
What
Now
and
the

Tibia
even

did it all

mean

her
now

indescribable.

mother
"

? and

Her

noble

why

had

Masthlion

not

her

grandfathera stranger,
She
afraid already.
was
she

been

thus

treated ?

of the unhappy restraint

thought she saw the reason
during
mysterioustrouble which had clouded their home
She had been rightin ascribingit in
sojournof Cestus.
she

NE"RA

404

some

who

in

watching her

was

her mother

was

to

his influence.

to

way

PART

She

turned

deep

her

suspense.
deed, and she

in heart and

on

eyes

There, at
opened her

in.

Tibia,
least,
arms

her.
'

Mother, I am
lifelong,if I

bewildered

How

came

I to be with

as
my
am,
you say, the child of another
child of great and wealthy people?
Ah, but that you
told me
this strange thingI could scarce
believe it.'

Tibia

received

with

her

gratefulheart, and

close while she told her the whole

'It

was

wicked

deed

"

held

you
the

have
her

story.

that

Cestus

did,

but

he

was

worse
tempted by one
himself,'said she, concluding;
evil he was
without doubt,but,to my mind, your kinsman was

than

'

for it

blame,

to

more

he

was

who

nothing to

planned it.
was
tempted

You

were

with gold.
my
poor brother till he
If he did you and
Ah, child,do not be too hard upon him.
that he preservedyou when
he
yours bitter wrong, remember

this kinsman

'And

Nesera, in
'

hushed

I do not

for your

he

"

to
grandsire

there,will
so long?'

you

where

he, and is he alive?' asked

or

may,

may

not

be.

We

are

here

claim

go

know
you, and you will soon
thing.
everyRome
the great people
to live among
the poor cottage that was
your home

to

remember

you

is

who

"

voice.

know

When

'Go

life.'

take your

paid to

was

may
could I

must

you

Nesera; 'how
forget? I
father,if he had only lived !

still be
was

with

happy

"

me,' replied

oh,

my

poor

'

The

of

tears

both

began

to

flow

again,and,

for

long

silent and
time, they remained
occupied with their own
thoughts.
roused
of Zeno, who
moned
sumThey were
by the entrance
them to follow him.
Nesera drew a sharp breath,and
with

trembled
'

the

Keep
dame's

ought

I not

The
well

as she stood
expectation
up to obey.
she clutched
as
me, mother,' she whispered,
and
tightly
yet, for the sake of Lucius,
;

nervous

near

hand

'

to be

glad ?

'

apartment into which

filled with

seat, and,

in

company.
lower

they were

brought was tolerably

Tiberius sat on
raised
a
slightly
his
seated
chair,at one
side, was

CHAP.

TALE

in.

OF

ROME

ANCIENT

405

Livia.
daughter-in-law

ing
Sejanuswas at her side,whilst conversin knots, at a respectful
others of the court.
were
distance,
friends of the
Flaccus, Priscus,Marinus, Atticus,the devoted
there,as well as Afer and two or three other
Emperor, were

low

to

next

buried

in

Neaera

and

Caesar

Thrasullus,the

with

tone

elbow;

Prefect.

of the

followers

whom

himself

speakingin

was

who
astrologer,

stood

Seleucus, another

was

at

his

philosopher,

deep reflection. Behind the Imperialchair was, as

usual,the giganticNubian, and still further in rear, other
slaves in waiting,
includingthe females in attendance on Livia.
the

dame, marshalled

by Zeno,

with hesitating
steps,and halted near
the abashed
feelingsof her humble

entered

the

door

timid

"

the presence
Tibia,with

nature, and

the

maiden, with an
positionrendered
to

hand

the

of
She

company.
and her

was

heart

each

upon

which
the circumstances
of her
agitation
positively
painful. She clung tenaciously
the dame
her eyes hastily
the
as she ran
over
comforted

even

throbbed

to observe

as
violently

gray head, in vain wonder

Livia present,

she cast
to

as

fugitive
glances
the identity
of her

aged relative.
Caesar's sign the steward

brought them forward in front

of his chair.
In the hollow of his left hand, Tiberius held the
Fabricius had
which
in the
shown
to Martialis,
same
intaglio
under
the Aventine.
studied
He
tavern
it,in conjunction
with the face of the maiden
before him, with close attention,
and then,without a word, handed
it to Thrasullus.
The philosopher,
after a rapid comparison,
it to the Imperial
returned
At

Tiberius raised his voice and

nod.
hand, givinga significant
called to Afer,who immediately
broke off his conversation and

approached.
'

out

Hither

the

thence
you

"

intaglio
;
on

the

'

your

said
opinion,'

cast

your eyes
face of this maiden

perceiveany
The

want

the

Emperor, holding

this graven
on
before us, and

stone, and
tell

me

if

resemblance.'

with curiosity.
of the company
edged nearer
Afer took the likeness,and, as he did so, bent his gaze on
Neaera's beautiful face,with the same
smile,which
supercilious
had

rest

proved

so

offensive

to

her

in

and coloured
recognisedhim readily,
reared her head, and averted
haughtily

Masthlion's
with

shop.

She

she
as
displeasure,

her eyes.

NEAiRA

406
Have

'

'

before ?

met

you

PART

asked

in.

Tiberius,closelywatching

them.

Yes, Caesar, to the

'

best

knight,removing his

eyes from
for the first time.

miniature

the

and
surprise,
as he gazed at
the meeting?'
of

movement

his hooked

over

'

nose,

then

'Where

was

In Surrentum
is better

she

if I mistake

"

believe,to
unfailingcurl

the

He

gave
his brows

asked
a

knitted

to

perceptib
im-

closely

his hand.

Caesar.

shop.
potter's

Centurion

the

the

almost

an

in
portrait

the

not, in

known,

repliedAfer, with
half

of my
memory,' returned
her face and turning them

of his

But

Martialis.'

lip,half

smile and

sneer.

came
gentle titter; the face of the young girlbeTibia,despiteher
crimson,and she dropped her head.
cast
an
indignantglance at the speaker and those
timidity,
to her.
smilingaround, as she drew the maiden nearer
It may
be so, but I wait your opinionwith regard to the
which seemed
resemblance
to strike me,' said Tiberius ;
you
with
the
be
to
also appear
likeness,
very stronglyimpressed
There

was

'

'

Afer.'

knight,as his eyes

returned againto the cornelian with a puzzledair; I admit there
in the eyes and
mouth, though
is a strong likeness,
especially
'

In

the

truth,I confess I am,' returned

'

this is taken
the

from

Doubtless

to

seem

know

'

face,and yet
'

older.

somewhat

woman

do,

you

own,' said Tiberius.

'

for

He

it
has

belongs

to

honoured

a
us

relative of your
with

and
visit,

here he is.'
All eyes followed the
followed by Natta and an
the curtains which
The
firm

old

step.
with

covered

senator

His
a

face

came
was

measured

glance ol Caesar, and saw Fabricius,

elderlyfellow-servant,
appear through
the entrance
forward

of

with

an
an

inner
erect

room.

body

and

vanced
pale and stern, and, as he adstep, he kept his eyes persistently

very

to
fixed upon the persons of Tiberius and his granddaughter,
else.
the determined exclusion of every one
and
transfixed with amazement,
barely saved
Afer
was

his house
Had
utteringan exclamation.
Esquilinesuddenly planteditself before him, his face
unrestrained surprise.
scarcelyhave shown more

himself

from

on

the

could

CHAP.

'

noble

Welcome,

made

Capreae we
nephew looks

by

The

ROME

him

407

in this affair of yours.

of Caesar

'

here !

you

step

'

old

welcome

man

to

worthy

Your

seeingyou.'

at

wonderingvoice

knight took

Livia ;

and

cried the

the words

before

dumfounded

'

ANCIENT

said Tiberius,
as the
Fabricius,'

busy

are

"

Uncle

OF

obeisance

deep

'

TALE

in.

two

or

of

released

Afer, now

'

is strange !

This

forward,and then hesitated.

gave him not the least sign of acknowledgment,

but,raisinghis glance for the first time,met the lustrous eyes
The

old

man

of Neaera

fixed

depths.

The

that

was

she

burning gaze

him, with a world

occasional deep heaves of
holding her breath in her

of Fabricius

He
his

covered
stretched
'

my

arms

her

but in

with
a

and

bosom

he

child !

looked,and

strange cry

flush
then

"

'

the unaccustomed

indescribable

showed

his heart,and

her with

My

her

their

the
and
agitation,
tensity
pierceher with its in-

moment

toward
!

to
over

Another

Aurelia

poignantaccents

through
power,

"

hand

one

face.

wan

forth his

Aurelia

The

placed

seemed

anxietyin

of

upon

sensations.

different way, the old man's

name

With
words

thrilled
no

less

startled his

nephew as with an electrical shock.

Reaching his uncle's side
he grasped his arm, and said sternly,
at a stride,
and almost
'What
is this,uncle?
Is this follystillso strong
fiercely,
within you ?
How
of the gods ?
came
you here in the name
does this wench
and in what
Do
concern
you?
you thus
accost
She is nothingbut a potter's
girl
every girl
you see ?
of Surrentum.'
'

Stay,Fabricius,you are hasty,'

spoke Tiberius ; let us
hear what these people have to say.'
Recalled
with his eyes yet fixed on
to himself,
Fabricius,
Neaera, stepped back to a place beside Thrasullus,without
with
Afer's brows met
deigninghis nephew a look or a word.
his
an
across
angry scowl, and he abruptly folded his arms
breast,whilst mutteringsome
hasty wrathful words.
Every
looked curiouslyon, and, in the momentary
silence which
one
suddenly ensued, the voice of Natta was heard, in an eager
undertone, speaking to his fellow-servant. Urged by their keen
interest the pair had
pressed forward beyond their proper
station,and were
peering through the circle of their superiors
The old steward's demeanour
at Nesera.
was
excited,but at
'

NE"RA

408

and

his

in.

companion

fell

to

'

of old

us

Unable

to

hope.

The

Augustus, well known

grandchildyears ago.

days,'said Tiberius, lost a

he yet
trace
her, in spiteof every effort,
likeness which

you have seen

Fabricius has at last,
he

supposinghe

business

of

'

of the lost child.

for

he

their proper station.

Noble
Fabricius here, a Senator

back

to

his master

impatient sign of

the

PART

has

recovered

inquireinto

to

the

the

preserves
is that of the mother

thinks,fair grounds

missinggirl. Be

it our

proofs.'

purpose, uncle ?' said Afer,with angry impatience.

Is it not absurd to ground a belief upon a mere
resemblance
It can
to
a
gem?
only end in fruitless disgust,as
graven
'

what

To

'

hitherto.

to harass

Cease
be

ignisfatuus;
to

guided by

as

me,

yourselfany longerby pursuing an

you

were

I pray you.
Leave
wont, and I will unmask

said Fabricius
I pray you, Caesar, proceed,'
takingany notice of his nephew.
unutterable

expressionof

an

knightfell back

'

'

two.

or

pace
I will retire/he said ;

them.'

without
briefly,

'

With

postors
these im-

me,

cannot

disgustand anger, the

With your permission,
Caesar,
listen to this folly.'

and
It is my will that you remain ; try, therefore,
what shall follow,'
repliedTiberius.
'

'

'

us

'

your wish,'said Afer, bitinghis lip.

! said Tiberius,
addressinghimself to Tibia,' tell

obey

must

'

Woman

and

name

your

My

the dame.

began

She

Enough

voice ;

'

beyond

'

'

No

'

How

of her

tone,

us

'

Surrentum,' answered

tones, and

then

gathering
she proceeded
deep injuries,
My home has, however,been

nothing.

long have

How

is this
;

nervous

in

'

you

You

in

harsh,sudden
asked.
Anything

are

dwelt

now

widow

in Surrentum

we

girlthe

never

then

had

did you

child of you
a child.'
come

by

and

your

husband

"

'

'

her ? '

My brother brought her to us to foster,when

littlechild,about fifteen years ago.'
'

fear.'

twenty years.'

'About
And

I dwell

Speak without

Masthlion

concerns

let that suffice.

'

louder

dwell.

interruptedthe Emperor,
only the questions
you are

answer

them

husband

ruined, and my
'

in low

the conviction

from

hurriedlyin

more

where

you
and
is Tibia,

name

courage

endure

she

was

CHAP.

'

Was

'

No.

to

said she

He

ANCIENT

ROME

409

the child of

orphan

an

was

"

fellow-

in Rome.'
and glancedtoward Fabricius,
shrugged his shoulders,
gazingintentlyand unmoved
upon the females.

Afer
was

she remained

'

Has

'

Yes.'

'

Have

you ?
'She

with you

Did

she

since ? '

ever

her to believe she

led

always

you

child ?

own

OF

she his child ? '

workman

who

TALE

in.

discover

never

reallyyour
not belong

was

she did

that

'

was

till

told

never

few

minutes

past in

this

house.'
'

Did

of this before,maiden

know

never

you

'

'No.'
'

Did

'

We

never

thought he
'

'

we

We

silence ?

as

back.

heard
?

own

from

We

of him.'

'

us

again,and

own.'

our

brother

brought your

weeks

back

again

after

so

long

'

He

had

Surrentum

to

her

upon

'What

'

thoughtof the child as your

thoughtshe would be taken

never

'

again until a few

dead, never
havingeven

be

must

visither,woman

never

him

saw

then

You

looked

'

brother

your

had

for

Why did

bad

change

and

he

come

not

learn of her welfare

'

I cannot

'

And

did

Not

until

tell.

illness in

and

Rome,

he

came

to

fresh air to
to

help him to get better.'

the child,or at least send

see

'
years ?
she was
in

duringall those
said he knew

He

good keeping.'

think proper to
ever
you or your husband
communicate
with this brother of yours respecting
the child he
had left in your charge,since he himself was
careless of
so
not

her?'
'

Rome

seek

to
'

Why

'

It

few

him,

but

never

when

was

she

hesitation.

brother,but

he could

not

after this your

accord?'
;

he

was

weak

trace

was

his

duty to

tell my

of him.'

brother arrived

and

to

said Tibia,with
marriage,'

thought it
find

went

'

in

asked

was

My husband

'Then

Yes

ago, when
my husband
found a trace of him.'

did he go, then,at last?

'

own

weeks

at

Surrentum

of^'^g

.est"
spots
thin.

NE"RA

410

Did

'

had

he

give

himself

of

account

no

you

PART

in.

for the time

he

silent?'

been
'No.'
'

Did

he tell you
dame's head

The
'

anythingfurther concerningthe girl?

sank

'

gradually.
said Fabricius ;

Speak,good woman,'

'

harm

no

shall

come

of it.'
'

Tibia continued,in
said,'

He

he

lie when
of

fellow-

first with the

came

workman,

but

'

low

voice,

child.

She

the child

not

was

had

and

nobly born,

was

that he told

been

stolen.'

course,'said Afer ironically.

From
whom, then, did he say she had been
Of

'

'

'

this

From

deceive

to
'

called

one

You

about

us

have

dwelt
the

the

several

seen

but

he

said

such

that she

such

no

who

town

but looked

answer,

man

person.'
in Surrentum
twenty years, being
child was
Can
brought to you.

people of
and
childless,

did not

there is

now

any

been

Tibia
'

have
before

five years

have

you

I know

"

say you

produce

you

Balbus, a wealthy

taken ? '

that
testify

can
as

came

you
Fabricius.

at

townspeople

relate?'

privately,

very

Caesar,'said Fabricius, and, from the evidence I gathered,I

satisfied that this worthy woman
am
speaks absolute
perfectly
'

truth.'

Enough, then, for that,'said

whispered words
exchange some
'

to

'

will

We

brother's
your
in before us.'

'Zeno, bringhim
and

Neaera

impatient,scornful

them

turned

resumed

his eyes from

the fair face
his nephew, who
stood with

slowly removed
turned

he

story,'he

hear

now

Fabricius

Tiberius ; and
with Thrasullus.

on

expressionof face, gazing fixedlyon

of
an

the

dame.
The
their

ring

midst

face had
at
no

recovered

occasion

interview
to

with

fade

beard

with

from

and

for

secrecy.

Fabricius,so

his

skin,and

moustache.

habit.

its normal

crisis with the sudden

into

bystanders parted,and Cestus walked

a
bold, not to say triumphant air.

of

When

arrived

matters

departureof Neasra, there

But

rather

that the
the

razor

the

dye
had

reverse

had

been

removed

His

was

left

since

his

suffered
his

bristly

CHAP.

made

He
turned

his former

to

waited

long

broad,

then

Caesar, and

to

moment

for, had

and

diabolical exultation

with

gleamed

face

411

for revenge, so
his
at last arrived,and

The

patron.

thirsted

and

coarse

obeisance

awkward

an

ROME

ANCIENT

OF

TALE

in.

malignance.
the

which
as

if

icy,deathlike

an

him

turned

'you thought

had

were

here

you
but
together,

paid
I

drew

Fabricius

glanced

around.

stricken

nephew's face,and

his gaze.
knight and

horrible

had

seen
now

was

his

good client,

storm

Withdrawing his

which

breath

the

heart

Afer
he

as

at

the

of

extremityof
of despair,

But
coolness

in readiness

bay,

him.

threatened

attention

fascination.

ear.

perilnerved him with the courage and

his faculties,
he stood
and, collecting

we

enough in his heartagain sternlyavoiding

numbed

in
whispered fatefully

for the ominous

grin;

last time

silent

long

dull, sicklydread

like

again,and,

am

fiendish

off in full the

me

break

to

himself,and

recovered

his

glassy,and

were

eyes

and

affairs.'

to your

voice seemed

His

fixed

seemed

his heart

upon

patron,'said Cestus, with

morrow,

stilldevoted

seized

He

change

ghastlywhite.

and

Good

'

His

sudden.

was

had

hand

stone.

to

face drawn

it

extraordinaryas

as

was

toward

eyes of the rest

had
suffered a

significant
gaze directed the
unhappy knight,whose demeanour

His

voted
Afer, the Emperor de-

from

scrutinyto the Suburan.

brother you speak of, woman?'

few moments'
this the

'Is

he asked

of

Tibia.

'Yes.'
'

Do

Yes,

'

Your

'

Cestus.'

'

And

'

so

Rome

"

her brother?'

her brother.'

the

are

'

Subura

have
you
holes therein.'

some

Subura, Caesar, and

therein.'

am

you

in the Subura.'

of the darkest
'There

Are

name?'

dwelling?

From

kinship,fellow?

pleaseyou,

'

'In

one

claim the

you

that

"

powerful
we

cannot

and

appearance.

wealthy people

all choose

the

best

From

in

the

spots

NEMRA

412

'

Bandy

words.

no

PART

Do

you

know

better.

She

is the

the

maiden

in.

there

by

granddaughter of

the

?'

you

'Yes

woman

she

came

be

to

the child of the

livingas

sister?'

your
took

there.'

then,

How,

'

one

Fabricius

noble
'

no

"

her

secretlyaway

the

from

mansion

grandsirefifteen years ago, all but three months

I have
kept the reckoning carefully ask the

less

if I

alreadytold

has

He

day,'said

very

'Are

this

me

he

"

speaks truly,to

the

Fabricius.

not

you

day.
cius
Fabri-

right.'

not

am

her

noble

"

'

of

afraid

this

to confess

Tiberius

said
villainy?'

sternly.
'

It is because

I wish

amends

for the wrong,

understand.'

soon
'

her from

and
as

did

'Because
names

"

harm

woman,

done

choose

time
I

instead

noble

for another

not

the

forward, and

matter

the

ripe

afraid it

was

of

good.

that
sister,

some

all will

which

you

took

let out

to
not

was

Fabricius

reason,

your
?'

Balbus, a wealthy man

one

mention

and

tell the

did you

Why

make

to

and
secret
my
then to bring the

might

There

be

was

with,

meddled
no

such

person

Balbus.'
'

What
seen

you
'

Not

'

It

whether

by the time being not ripe? Had

you mean
?'
heard of her since you firstleft her in Surrentum
or
once.'
do

may
she

be
were

concluded

from

alive

dead

or

that

cared
nothing
you
is
during all that time
"

that so?'
'

Not

much

so

as

to

take

me

to

Surrentum

to

find

out,

I confess.'
'

to

Then

why, after

all that

did
long silence,

!
Say, what
go to Surrentum
the child and hiding it away

to restore

it

was

for

resolve

you

reason
your
fifteen years

in

ing
steal-

in

order

again?'

than
to me
pleaseyou, Caesar,the child was no more
of great importanceto my patron, and
any other,but she was
kill it.
he bargained and paid me
seventy sestertia to secretly
I
soft-hearted to make
I was
so
too
away with it altogether,
'

So

CHAP.

took

TALE

in.

it to Surrentum

she has remained

'

'

ANCIENT

OF

quietlyand

tillnow,

as

you
this
And
who is
patron ?'
He stands there before you
It's a lie

vagabond

whoever

'

lie !

damnable

"

thou

413

unknown

him,

to

and

there

see.'

Titus

Afer.'

shouted

the

"

'

ROME

art, how

thou

darest

'

knight.

such

say

Dog

thing?'
His
and

black

eyes blazed amid the deathlypallorof his face,

thrill of astonishment
passed through the bystanders.

Livia leaned

Even
'

Have

knife

forward

care,'quoth

in her seat

with rapt attention.

Cestus, shrinkingback, ' or he will

he did before.'
Afer,' said Tiberius
yourself,

again,as

me

'Command

drily;'you

to reply.'
plentyof opportunity
I to be traduced by such a villain,
whom
Am

have
'

before ?

And

in the face

of these

present ?

shall

never

saw

you, Fabri-

Do

I have served and loved as a son

so
cius,my uncle, whom
it in silence thus ? Oh, monstrous
!
long do you countenance
To be so gulledby a cunning knave
after all that has been
and thus calmly to listen
on
fashion,
practised
you in the same
"

to

such
'

flesh and blood

shame ! '
your own
has said you will have an opportunity,
at a proper

outrage

an

Caesar

on

"

what
this man
time,of disproving
seek for the truth,and woe
upon
in hollow

'

me

tones.

Ay, indeed,woe
upon
Have
cast
then,
you,

'

Let us proceed and

says.
the evildoer,'
said Fabricius

'

him,' said

Afer

loudly.

off,patron ? Do
observed
Cestus, with
me

after all my services ?

4
No more
of that,Suburan,'cried Tiberius.

charge to
Afer.
'

make

of the

against one

Beware, if it be

rank

and

disown

you

grin.

a
'

It is a grave
familyof Titus

idle piece of mischief.'

an

It's nothingbut sober

truth,Caesar.'

'Lying,cunning knave !' hissed the knight.

It is easilyexplained,'continued Cestus, with
1

laugh ;

'

wanted

it all to himself

the noble

'Execrable
and

Fabricius

wretch

"

the

is

vastly rich

girlwas

!' cried

in the

and

his

rough
nephew

way.'

Afer, beside himself with

near

fury. He made a springtowards

him clung to his garments and

The

Suburan, on

his part,bounced

back

the

terror

Suburan, but

arrested

the

those

movement.

and
precipitately,

then

NEALRA

414

PART

stayed,broke
laugh.

seeingthe knight'sadvance

into

out

time,nervous
but, at the same
'
Peace, I say again, Afer,' said Tiberius

in.

jeering,

sternly
;

more

can
surelywell await until the end.
your cause
of your story of this
Go on, Suburan, and relate the whole
affair. Add
nothing,omit nothing,and be as brief as possible.'
'

justnessof

the

Cestus did

he

as

relations with

of his

and
required,

was

knight,on
drops with

the

gathered in
perspiration

noble
omitted

down

went

on,

last violent

the

to

connection

the

which

'

finished.

If it

word

that honest

fall out

I have

said is truth

to

be the thief?

get their

men

"

been

I have

lie,should

were

the

over

alreadydescribed.
everything,Caesar,'he said, when

myself out

made

have

ran

have

we

Every

gods.

the

the Circus

meeting by

occurrences

is

tween
be-

Nothing

the Suburan
Thence, in conclusion,
that

tions.
emo-

laying bare, with

Maximus.

'And

the

violence of his

the

itscommencement.

from

vagabond

and

pallidbrow

whose

historyof

minuteness, the whole

extreme

was

tale
pitiless

the

Step by step

revealed the full extent

he

had

it,by all
enough to

swear

fool

No, itis when

thieves
hide

I don't seek to

own.

and
I ; but for the man's sake, who tempted me
breast of it and exposed mya clean
self.
rne, I have made
like
hearted
falsewith
a
a
at last
He
dagger thrust,
paid me

myself
"

hired

not

coward
here is the

is,and

he

as

look

place
"

at

I'm

now

it for

with him.

even

See,

believe

and
yourselves,

your

eyes !'

own

He

hastilywithdrew

his tunic

to
sufficiently

Afer

had

slash received

in

in his left side,where

scar
recently-healed

disclose

the

struck his

desperateblow.

Lying knave, this

in a Suburan
night-brawl
'

story is
aspect was

whole
whose
this

suffer it !
'

have
on

some

stye, if it be there you

fable, a

ghastlyto

for my

return

is

cursed

broke
lie,'
'

behold.

love, uncle?

I know

Shame

drunken
The

dwell !
in Afer
him

not

that you

again,
!

Is

should

'

Patience
heard

him

certain

'

Fabricius,you
confess that he decoyed you from your house,
said

'

Tiberius, let

night,with

us

finish.

false tale about

comrade

who

OBA.P,

TALE

in.

sick,and wished

was

It is

you,

do

you

him
I recognised

too

of

His

night.

well graven
the troop

the

wretch

it tries

and
'

attendants
'

on

of

new

and

flew

to

I to

Am

daughter
grand-

horror-stricken

his voice

and

our
demean-

again,and a thousand
tried to bring him
more

related

he

as

the

occurrence,

who

wretch

to

came

is

me

it is

occurred

"

'

hard

me

Wine,

perfect
But
for the timelyappearance
my mind.
Martialis the Centurion,
with
Pretorians
succeeded
have
only too well in his evil
unexpectedlyon me, Caesar,
infamy comes

would

This

intent.

recognisehim

yes, it is the same

of what
description

"

lost

'

his face

remember

to

hither,have
times, from Rome
But now,
exactlyto my mind.
that

415

concerningyour

in
displayeddistressingly

I seemed

'

see

to

ROME

enough,'repliedFabricius,whose

true

were
feelings

ANCIENT

is it true, and

"

'

OF

seat

Fabricius,said

for

Tiberius

; and

the

obey.
this ?

bear

I to

Am

listen to this '

broke

"

in

Afer.
'

Peace, I say,'said Tiberius

The

old

senator

and

sank

him,
placed for

for

the

drank
with

'

drink

wine

the

tremblinglimbs

rest, Fabricius.'

and

brought
they

attendants
into

chair

the

him.

it is
is true, Suburan, and
told us
you have
scarcelycredible you would invent a tale to incriminate yourself
within
the
to such a degree, then your actions bringyou
of the cord,'resumed
reach of the rods of the lictors,
and
'

If what

"

"

'

Tiberius, but
time.

What

due

attention
us

concerns

given to this at a
the identityof the

shall be

now

is

the proofsthat she is what

Give us, therefore,

you

proper
child.
her

assert

to

be.'
'

giventhem
have, already,

you,'said
'

My

to the noble

so please
Fabricius,

Cestus.
slave

bears

them

"

bring them

! ' said

hither,Natta

Fabricius.
The

steward

came

forward

of child's garments, and

bended
knee, whilst Fabricius

before

Caesar

displayedthem
attested

them

with
to

"

the

age
pack-

Tiberius

on

the
particularly

amulet.
'

know

Come
these

hither,woman,' said Tiberius

things?

'

to

Tibia ;

'

do

you

NE"RA

41 6

took

the child

what

They

are

them

off and

when

wore

They are not the dress of a poor

thought not strike you when you saw
'

him

; I asked

Yes

her father had

been

befriended him

she

to

came

us

we

"

kept them.'

'

in.

PART

how

she

man's

child.

them

at

such

first.'
and

by them,

came

Did

he

said

very poor, so poor that a rich familyhad

of charity,
and had dressed
her in some

out

cast-off clothes.'
'That's
'The

"

they are

all of

monstrous

as

'

Cestus.

of a liar should
always be good,' cried
memory
this vagabond'smemory
is only equalledby his lies

'

Afer ;

so,'said

I told her

true

Yet

which
credulity

sucks

the

as

What

prodigiousnature.
remains

more

ask

to

I doubt

if

they are

in.'

them

people, Fabricius

these

said Tiberius.
Question them if you will,'
I have nothing to add to what your highnesshas ably
from his seat.
I have already
said,'
repliedFabricius,
rising
satisfied myself,by inquiries
in Surrentum, that this woman
is
people,
worthy, honest, and estimable in the opinion of the towns'

'

and

that

her

husband

word, therefore,is

qualities.Her

same

bears out
that

you

the assertions

of her

ago
and
alive,

grandchildwas

trusted,and it

be

to

enclosinga piece of ribbon,which

pattern. I

child's room,
fabric.
I had

more

first

the

heart

with

from

the

this man
you
my

the

upon
heard, which

weight
I

grave.

many
seemed

of conviction.

deeply

was

before

It

the

self-same

times,but
to

was

moved.

in my

me

of

to the

went

this

strike to

was

my

like

few

nightsago

house, and

message

related what

have

heard, with the exceptionof the vile trick by which

own

life

attempted.

was

his words.

accept it.

household

So

who

child.

The

them.

Let

them

Verrus, and

answer

the

imposed

I had

appeared

proofsof
I

It is of unusual
you.
there found
and
some

news

I will tell

saying that my
letter,

lies there before

been

for the

misguidedbrother.

I received

weeks

some

likewise esteemed

was

image of

can

find

no

brought

these

flaws in his

thingsas

evidence,and

pleaseyou, Caesar, here

are

served

grandmother

memory

the

He

the

mother

of the
say.

mother

and

should

slaves of my

two

be

of

this

strong within

Look

this maiden, Natta

and
upon
your hearts tell you, if she recall

truly,as
dead Fabricia,
my

daughter,your

mistress.'

'

TALE

ill.

CHAP.

'

for both.

ANCIENT

alreadylooked

have

We

OF

She

is too

near

ROME

417

her, master,'repliedNatta

upon
alike

not

be

to

child of the

the

Fabricia.'

dead

'We

all agreed as

are

gem,'observed
am

everythingtells me
fervently.

the

to

turn, for which

has
been
brought

is my

she

"

Afer's

charge which

the

refute

heart

it becomes

'Then

resemblance

Caesar.

satisfied ; my
Aurelia,'said Fabricius
I

'

marked

the

to

he

burns, to
against him,'

Tiberius continued.
All eyes turned

stood

he

knight,as
lips.

upon the white,haggard visageof the

with tightly-folded
and compressed
arms

now

I will be brief.

'

impose

to

taken

have

deny
a

upon

unfair

an

it all

it is

"

credulous

advantage;

old

man,' said

it would

have

You
have your
manly to have warned me.
Once
concoct
and paid to brazen it out.
is easily
arranged. Now, however, I hear

time.
am

will

to

not

to

turn

an

his

ear

to

me

credulity.He

he.

been,

witnesses
a

the

'You

least,

at

gathered,

tale,and the

rest

of this for the first

but

me

swallows

as
plausibletale now
first missing only,

formerly,when the child was

that in his present delusion
difference,

eagerlyas

vented
lie,in-

Who
my bare word.
support me, when even
my uncle
not
Long and bitter experiencecan-

defend

find in this island

cure

with

nothingto

I have

infamous

an

to
scruplein allowingsuspicions

be

"

he

raised of his

has

no

flesh

own

blood.'

and

spoken one word to you, much less made a

I have listened to
charge againstyou, though, like yourself,
said Fabricius
Your
conclusions are
one.
hasty,therefore,'
restraint ; you will be at liberty
under
no
sternly
; you are
witnesses you may, and do anythingyou
to gather what
can
will
No
has been said.
be more
to disprovewhat
one
pleased
of your success.
I do not condemn
than myselfto know
on
the word of one
man
on
time,it is incumbent
; at the same
It is a grave charge."
you to refute him.
'

I have

not

'

'

And

too

true

to

be

upset, is it not, patron ?

lipsare glib enough

coarsely. 'Your
your false,cowardly heart is shrivelled within
for fear,I know
rightwell.'
moment,
Cestus

as

'

remarked
ever,

you,

at

but
this

4i8

NEsERA

'

been

Silence,vagabond
taken

'

cried

Tiberius

'

need

in.

have

Afer, you

it is true ; but, as you declare

the score
feel no
on
concern

unawares

innocent, you

PART

yourself
of

this

charge.'
'

I do

innocent

know,' repliedAfer scornfully

;

not

suffer

too

often the

it is in the interest and

when
especially,

"

'

clinatio
in-

they should be the scapegoat. My

resolves to replace
worthy uncle lost his grandchild,and now
her at all hazards.
natural hallucination,
he
By a perfectly
persuadeshimself that he sees her in the person of the potter's
follow matters
nothing to him.'
girl; whatever consequences
There
shall be no
sufferingof the innocent, or of any
of self-accusing
one, in this sad matter, except by the pangs
said Fabricius ;
with yourself to disit remains
prove
conscience,'
If you do not, you know
the charge or not.
well as
as
I what
judgment will be meted out to you, though you still
I am
for my part,with the recovery
of
walk at liberty.
satisfied,
of

some

that

one

'

'

my

child ; deal with the rest, which concerns

you, as you will.'
'
noble Fabricius,'
You
too liberal and slack of dealing,
are

said Tiberius
the

'

be better for all concerned

it would

completely.'
touches my nephew's honour

to

unravel

matter
'

It

I leave it in his

"

hands,'

repliedFabricius.
'

it

Be

Tiberius

'

But

so.

turn

to

yet

word

or

two

this ruffian of the Subura

of
given a very minute description
Is
with you lasting
over
years.
many

has

not

him

know
'

what
'

No

"

save

Afer,'observed

more,

once

He

more.

allegedacquaintance
it possiblethat you do

an

'

for

lying scoundrel,'returned

avail is my word ?
then be
must
He

Afer

'

but of

'

scoundrel

of

exceptionalingenuity
'

imagination. What say you to this,Suburan ?

Why, it is easy enough for him to say that in this place,'
repliedCestus, with a laugh ; but in the cityhe would not
when
He
is but plunginghimself deeper into the mud
dare.
It is not a simplethingsto throw off altogether
he denies me.
of eighteenyears !
a friendship
hissed the knight.
Friendship! execrable villain,'
As you please,patron ; you were
always fertile in pretty
and

'

'

'

'

"

'

names,' retorted the other,shrugginghis shoulders.

'

TALE

in.

CHAP.

be

OF

ROME

ANCIENT

419

the existence of

easy for you to prove

eighteenyears'connection,'said Tiberius.
It must

Ay, in
help me
'

to

justas

the

city,where

; but

here

started.

Afer

stop ! will you

"

Erotion

lad named

Greek

be found

could

send

for his

slave,a

shot

thrill of

'

unlooked-for

These

his heart and

plenty of people

him

roused

words

desperation.
come,'
fiercely. You will terrify
into bearingfalse witness againstme.
him
You
banded
are
I claim a suitable delay,until I can
reach Rome,
againstme.
to gather evidence
againstthis conspiracy.'
You
are
unreasonablymoved, Afer ; we may as well listen
to what
to
not
your slave has now
say as to wait longer. It canmake
he speak the
any possibledifference to you, whether
truth now
Caesar grimly.
or
then,'remarked
Bring the slave
hither,if he be in the palace.'
terror

to

'

he cried

shall not

He

to

'

'

'

Zeno
him.
the

knew

that

the few moments'

company

relaxed

sat with

no

in

one

his friend
'You

close at

hand

interval

the strained

low

moment

'

the

and

his hand

to

went

of

murmur

fetch

attention

of

conversation.

his eyes fixed on

Prefect stole round
to the side of

on

particular.The
Afer and whispered,'What
have
heard, like me, for

clever

that

into

his cheek

repliedthe other,
at

was

In

Caesar

'

he

conspiracyof

and

is all

this,Afer?'
first time, Prefect,'

the
a

rogue.'

Hercules,' observed

rogue, by
Zeno
re-entered

with

the

the

other, and
Greek

young

Erotion.
'

cast

hither into the

Come

midst,'said Caesar.

and alarm,
Erotion,with a look of mingled astonishment
himself of any
an
uneasy glance around, whilst bethinking

misdeed

which

forward

into the

about

was

middle

to

and

be visited upon

him.

betrayed unmistakable

He

came

surprise

His

master's eyes were, moreover,

fixed
seeingCestus.
him with a peculiar,
which he failed to
meaning expression
at

and
'Are
demanded

which

the
you
Caesar.

tended
slave

to

further embarrass

of Domitius

on

terpret
in-

him.

Afer, called Erotion?'

'I am.'
'

that

Stand
man

forward
and

step, Suburan.

say whether

you

know

Now,
him.'

slave, look

at

NEALRA

420

The

at

him

bade
peremptorily
'

Look

no

upon

his back

turn

him

but

one

him

Yes,'was

the

'

His

name

'

Cestus.'

'

Where
In

and

Where

'

In

'

What

'

I bore

'

the

to

you ;
has the
Do

you

tremblingreply.

have

when

places.'
first? '

see

Subura,

I think.'

took

him

there ?

you

from

?'

him

seen

you

did you

message
?'
this man

To

pointed out

have

'

in various

Rome,

'

his master.

'

'

'

on

you speak false,Caesar

then woe
you.
upon

If
speak trulyand fear not.
of discoveringit,and
means
know

in.

sidelong
turned
slave's eyes instinctively
a fleeting
he complied, whereupon Tiberius
Afer ere

young

glance

PART

'

master.'

my

'Yes.'
'

Do

'

It

was

'

Where

command

forget.'
long ago

About

three years, I think

I cannot
be certain.'
long have you been the slave of Afer ?'
"

How

'

Nearly four years.'

'

Have
Yes.'

'

What

'

Only

'

Have

'Yes
'

"

Have

master.'

this?'

was

'

'

my

'

'How
'

that message ? '

for him to meet

remember

you

you

ever

this

seen

since then ?'

man

business had

you with him ?'

where my master
to tell him
was
him in the house
seen
you ever
not

once,

you

see

of your

him.'
master?'

long ago.'
had

ever

to

any

other

business

with him

?'

'No.'
'

master

Have
?

"

you

ever

answer

!'

'

I have.'

'

Enough

When

then

seen

for the

the slave had

deep silence

upon

this

present

left the

in

man

"

you

room

all present, ominous

company

with

your

may go.'
there fell a momentary
and painful.

TALE

ill.

CHAP.

OF

ANCIENT

ROME

421

deny all knowledge of this

you now
said Tiberius in sardonic tones.

Titus Afer, do

'

Cestus?'

his

With

remained

if

as

his

whilst

arms

slave

man

folded,and his eyes fixed before him, Afer

of everything
turned
to granite,unheedful
all hope of escape
unconsciously dashed

away.
'Do

all

deny

you

knowledge

this

of

Cestus?'

man

peated
re-

Tiberius.
'

to

'

I refuse
alreadydone so,'repliedAfer stolidly
;
I am
prejudged it is useless to say more.'

I have

say

more.

"

silence fell on

Another

the

and

room

the

Prefect

frowned

fidgeted. But the Emperor seemed in no hurry to relieve

the embarrassingstillness.
he said at
has been no judgment delivered so far,'
There
length. Do you impugn the words of your slave ?
said Afer bitterly.
He is a Greek, and a born liar,'
both of them
the philosophers,
and Seleucus
Thrasullus
Greeks, pricked up their ears at the insinuation,and reared
and

'

'

'

'

their heads

in

Greek

or

'

indignation.
Greek, do

no

he has

say that

you

lied ? '

now

said Tiberius.
'

I say no
Good
!

'

and

probed

more

Then

the

he sat up ; 'I command

Prefect,I give Domitius
Let

care.

the
the

them

charge of

be

abruptly.

transferred

shall be

matter

bottom

the

to

it is useless,'
repliedAfer

"

to

Rome

said Tiberius sternly,

as
forthwith,'
it,and it is no less due to society.
Afer

and

conveyed

to

this

the

there,who

the Pretors

truth,with the help of

whatever

into

Cestus

man

cityand

handed

over

thy
to

fullyinto
forthcoming.'

shall examine

witnesses

are

remember
Fabricius,
your pledgeto me, 'said Cestus,
alarm
as
began to get the upper hand of the exultation which
had hitherto lightedhis coarse
visage.
that he
Upon his full confession I promised this man
should
to no
come
hurt,'said Fabricius,
immediately rising
'

Noble

'

his

from
break
'

'

seat.

pray

you

will

returned
Granted, Fabricius,'
with the

'

not

see

fit

to

cause

me

to

faith.'

nevertheless

court

'

One

I insist
woman

on

and

full

the

inquiry.

the maiden

other request, Caesar.'

Emperor

graciously
;

You

attend

must

if required.'

the

NEsERA

422

'

Go

'

The

PART

on.'

in

his

love

"

girl

this

for

Martialis,

Centurion

the

boy

headstrong

offended

beseech

him,

and

How

'

'

is

the

of

Good

'

will

able

with

to

his

overlook

wife.

his

will

plain

the

of

but

released,

him

relieve

discipline

salutary

citizen
to

be
I

offence.
as

time

more

has

he

to

mind
re-

will

he

coat

Fabricius,

dine

you

to-night.'

me

So

As

shall

He

you.

while,

fault.

devote

to

over

for

his

of

think

well

'

Sejanus.

pass

centurionship

and

may

Sejanus

to

behaviour

Fabricius,

Caesar

yield

altogether

him

saying

gigantic

the

disappeared

and

speculation
Sullen

and

apartment

proceed

the

the

which

had

appointed

he

When

apartment.

degrees,

his

on

full

interest

of

passed.
refused

Afer

efforts

Prefect's

shrugging
was

Rome.

the

by

leaning

and,

inner

departed

impenetrable,

therefore,

to

others
what

on

smiling,

rose

into

passed

despite

intercourse,
Sejanus,

Emperor

Nubian,

had

to

replied

turning

his

of

as

punished.

Then

not

his

opinion

and

loyal

away.'

Tiberius,

free

who

clemency
is

He

blood.

him

said

scot

go

same

rashness,'

boyish

be

to

sufficiently

been

of

Centurion
am

carried

Prefect,'

you,

hot

and

youth

desperation

say

your
'

his

and

brave,

his

pardon

show

you

"

to

in.

his

to

for

that

shoulders,
to

him,

until

into

enter

any

purpose

him

in

left
the

time

and

the
came

IV.

CHAPTER

the throng into

from
ESCAPINGchild,
Fabricius poured

privacy
out

with

his

her

upon

covered
re-

all the

ness.
joy and thankfultouched
His fervent warmth, and almost childish delight,
Neaera very deeply,but yet it was
impossiblefor her to respond
still the humble
cottage girl,and the
as
freely. She was
of

endearments

transported with

nature

awed
stranger patrician
the

exist

in

midst

the

of

strange

lover

her

at

him

toward

least,was

no

peacefully
wept

and

place

and
was

for

the

time

at

He

room.

seemed

to

labouring

her

the

sudden

came,

not

pearance
apwith

guard of a desponding
smiling. With a low cry she
Here,
clasped in his arms.

doubt;

all the

away

of the afternoon

She
and

this,

attendant

the

but free, alone,

prisoner,
sprang

for the

within

and

look

haggard

dream,

to

unbelief.

vanished
perplexities
of

disclosures

of confusion.

state

dogged by

thoughts were
All

in

left her

addition

In

and

rapid bewilderingoccurrences
had

the

somewhat.

her

and,

darkness

on

and

his

misery

breast, she
which

had

grievouslyduring the last terrible days.

he murmured, as he touched
You
are
sadlypale and thin,'
of her emotion
after the first moments
her cheek
caressingly,
Have
had passed away.
they not treated you well ?
Quite well.'
looked for/
than I once
The
gods be praised it is more
he said fervently.
ing
and you
all is well now,
But
are
free,'she said,looktears.
up into his face,and smiling through her glittering
from this place?
Shall we
not go soon
You, doubtless,my sweet ; your duty lies with your grandloaded

her mind

so

'

'

'

'

'

"

'

'

'

'

sire.

Does

she

go back

to

Rome

with

you,

Fabricius ?

'

NEsERA

424

PART

answered
the old
'Ay truly,'
with infinite satisfaction,
'and
them
'

Ah, if I knew

'

Then

rest

Then

if this

'

strive

will not

'What

it were

assured

watching

was

also.'

you

'

it is the will of Tiberius.'

"

will
girl's

sweet

fate

againstmy

Caesar

so

who

man,

in.

in unison

be

with

Caesar's

I await her decree.'

"

commands

I cannot

forbid,and

fain

must

put up with,'said she demurely.

I will go ; but circumstances
You
have been transformed

Then

'

thee.

saw

girl.

Once

station.

own

your

to

stoop
'

would

"

'

away

great labour

to

it would

be

I should

But

so

"

potter's
of

out

Will you

now

let

again?
myself for

in

'

weary
begin,'she

had

she said.
charm

to

you
of.'

never

not

us

scruplesI

back

task I could

the

remove

bringthem

now

you

the poor
with one

'

Yes, if I might plant them

"

'

Do

from

scruplesin matching
still keep them ?
you

Pretorian

poor
took

You

then

had

you

altered since I last

are

with
replied,

divine smile.
'

is all this

What

mutteringbetween

'

you ?

cried Fabricius,

growingimpatient.
that
asking her if she thinks as kindlyof me
now
child into the granddaughter
she is changed from the potter's
of Fabricius/ repliedMartialis.
that?
'Well, and what
Come, child,let
says she to
'

us

am

hear

notes,'said Fabricius

your sweet
in his own

Caesar

hall

for your

sake

'

he

that

is

worthy

bearded
of

some

reward.'
'

alreadygiven him

have

smilingand blushingupon
'

in the world

What

Lucius
Nesera

no

'

Nesera

she

his

learningand
friend

and

she said,
give,'

to

her lover.
better

can

it,my

?'

Neaera

sweet

sponded
re-

fervent kiss.

ever

leave

be

to

me,' said Lucius.

in

Martialis

of his life in the

offspring. One
of

must

will

we

have

longer,but Aurelia,'cried Fabricius.

'

Here
crown

with

all I

person of
of his sons, named

taste, and

namesake,

his

beloved
after

is immortalised
the

prime,
wife

great Roman

the

noble

and

himself,was
in the

with

man

letters of

epigrammist.

CHAP.

We

latter which

relates

present it in

JuliusMartialis ; land
retreats
Secluded
are

more

hollow

shines
valleys,

turrets

of

the

Rome,

loftyvilla

as

well

as

that lies in the

may

the

suburbs,

Alba

and

so

the

on

that

acres

of

the

the smooth
while

; and

Tusculum,
and

belonging to
Hesperides.

summit, with
mist

covers

The

own.

Hence

stars.

contemplate

old Fidenae

you

the whole

its wheels

are

graceful
may

see

of

extent

every cool retreat

Rubra, and the fruit-

Salarian

and

the

and

little

in virgins'
blood.
delights

Flaminian

we

"

the

and

Perenna,which

the traveller

seen

world,

with

Fabricius,and

lightall its

gently toward

heightsof

the

carriageis unheard,
neither

rise
of

of Anna

bearinggrove
be

conspicuousin

hills,rulers

seven

sky

the

hills,and

the

of
epistle

that

JaniculanHill lie the few

blessed than the gardens
cloudless

425

of old

translation

spreadover

gentleundulations, enjoys
a

mansion

well-known
the

ROME

ANCIENT

concluding with

the

to

long ridgeof

the

On

OF

refrain from

cannot

'

TALE

iv.

Thence

roads, while

his

to gentlesleep;
interruption

no

by the cry of the boatswain or the noise of hawsers,

bridge is near, and shipsare seen
glidingswiftly

is it broken

although the Mulvian

This country box, or rather mansion, is rendered
along the sacred Tiber.
of its owner.
You
will imagine it
agreeableby the welcome
additionally
be
is
it
thrown
to
to yon,
own
ungrudgingly,so liberally
; so
your
open
and

with

attractions

such

refined

hospitality.
.

Praeneste, and give the slopesof Setia

for my

You
.

cultivate,with
insignificant,

part,

preferto

all your

by

to one

R.

"

who

now

hundred

spades,cool
acres

END.

R.

CLARK,

think

singlehusbandman,

the few
possessions

THE

Printed

Edinburgh.

of

all these
Tibur
whilst

or

I,

JuliusMartialis.

'

OPINIONS

SOME

The
"

'

'

Nesera

Emperor

is

given to

picture is,we
sustained

and
We
a

of

remains

may

take

words

here at the

as

leave

of Mr.

in which

he

The
as

story

interest

the

of the

the

best

in

the

is

Graham

writes

eloquent and

in

has

the

storv.

"

him.

with
rose

by

born

"

and

book.

new

constantly

the

to

up

careful

of

the
for

the

the

long-

guiltyor

part good.

most

leisurely
way,

of

characters

villain is

the

the

they

One

is not

or

last

very

which

all the

is

new

study of

places to

Nesera

styleis

interweavingof

appearance

The

in

'Necera.'

whether

story, and

increases

the

of the

whether

with

find

to

writing of

final

careful

keen

choosing good
which

passages

Gazette

eye

says

for what

From

flags.

never

And

means

lot

his situations follow

dining-room
this

which

the difficultiesinto which

a

lastingmark,

novel

plainthat

Senator, and

fightin the

all is movement.

the

James's

situation,and
striking

is

the little

really

are

"

St.

Graham

tremendous

one's

It is

is the

the

beautiful.

story

is

occasionallyintroduces

The

He

story of

prisonswhich

startlingincidents

crimes.

phrases,and

are

worthy.
trust-

powerful tale

says

multipliedby

of

nor

left

but
graduallyat first,

is to decide

of

the blackest

his

us

stories told about

falls to

and

book

of

that

has

palacesand

the

classical literature,and

not

Mr.

given

an

the

; and

connectingwith

Review

occurrence

granddaughter

"

in

'Nesera'
.

somewhat

Tiberius, who

sound

least

and
interesting

speaks of

it often

as

lost

Mr.

general features

the old

Graham's

necessarilypreceded

scenes

before

in its

Tiberius

out

concluding volume.

masterpiecesof
refer, has

bear

life,under

were

well

this island

novel.

grows

and

pages

done

Roman

honourable

the

at

Saturday

story progresses,

threads

and

"

despot'scommand."

admirable

good

has

of his work

The
"An

he

On

Capri.

the

few

has

says

Antonines

Graham

PRESS.

pictureof

interest ; which

island rock

as

think, carefully
drawn,
Mr.

us

the

as

THE

Review

Edinburgh

infamous

as

OF

he

and
story-teller,

under
is

movement

Mr.

Graham

bringsthem
'

Nesera

'

other

the

on

thick

so

suicide

of

the

of Tiberius

eyes

never

extricates
ever

"

is called

each

the

stage
and

Apicius

hurried

or

to

is in consequence

fast
the

himself

huddled,

his characters

far-fetched

from

improbable.

or

an

admirable

flftacmillan's

1.
2.

3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.

Colonial

Life
Station
in New
Zealand.
By Lady BARKER.
Year's
House-keeping in South Africa.
By the Same.
A Princess
of Thule.
BLACK.
By WILLIAM
A Family
Aftair.
CONWAV.
By HUGH
Mr. Isaacs : a Tale of Modern
India.
By F. M. CRAWFORD.
Dr. Claudius
True
: a
CRAWFORD.
Story. By F. MARION
A
Roman
CRAWFORD.
Singer. By F. MARION
A
Tale
of a Lonely Parish.
CRAWFORD.
By F. MARION
Conduct
The
of Life.
WALDO
EMERSON.
By RALPH
after
Seekers
God.
F. W.
By the Venerable
D.D.,
FARRAR,
of Westminster.
Archdeacon
Souvenirs
of some
Continents.
FORBES, LL.D.
By ARCHIBALD
Human
Intercourse.
By P. G. HAMERTON.

BARKER."
BARKEK.
BLACK."
CONWAY."
CRAWFORD."
CRAWFORD."
CRAWFORD."
CRAWFORD."
EMERSON."
FARRAR."

"

F.R.S.,
FORBES."
HAMERTON."
12.
13. KEARY."
n.

Oldbury.

By ANNIE

of Three
Tales
of Old
Tales

KEARY.

Cities.

14.

JAMES."

15.
16.

MITFORD."
By A. B. MITFORD.
Japan.
OLIPHANT."
A
Country Gentleman.
By Mrs. OLIPHANT.
The
Literary History ot England in the end of the
18, 19. OLIPHANT."
18th and
beginning of the 19th Century.
By Mrs. OLIPHANT.
3 vols.
ST. JOHNSTON.
Cannibals.
ST. JOHNSTON.
By ALFRED
Camping among
Aunt
MURRAY.
MURRAY."
Rachel.
By D. CHRISTIE
YONGE."
M. YONGE.
Chantry House.
By CHARLOTTE
HARRISON."
of Books,
and
other
The
Choice
By
Literary Pieces.
FREDERIC
HARRISON.
Miss
GENTLEMAN.'"
THE
AUTHOR
'JOHN
OF
HALIFAX,
Tommy:
GENTLEMAN.'
A Mediaeval
Romance.
By the author of 'JOHN HALIFAX,
" White.
in Black
MALET.
MALET."
Sketch
Mrs. Lorimer
: A
By LUCAS
HUGH
CONWAY."
Dead.
CONWAY.
or
By
Living
OLIPHANT."
Erne
Ogilvie. By Mrs. OLIPHANT.
HARRISON.
HARRISON."
A Northern
Lily. By JOANNA
NORRIS."
Jim.
Friend
By W. E. NORRIS.
My
EMILY
LAWLESS.
LAWLESS."
Hurrish
Study.
By the Hon.
: a
GENTLEMAN.'"
THE
AUTHOR
'JOHN
OF
King Arthur:
HALIFAX,
GENTLEMAN.'
Not
Love
a
Story. By the author of 'JOHN HALIFAX,
HARDY.
of Casterbridge.
HARDY."
The
By THOMAS
Mayor
of Ancient
Rome.
Tale
GRAHAM."
Nesera
By JOHN W. GRAHAM.
:
a

17.
20.
21.

22.

23.
24.
25.

26.
27.
28.
29.
30.

31.
32.
33.

34.
35.

36.
"57.

38.
39.
40.

41.
42.

43.
44.
45.

46.
47.

By

HENRY

JAMES.

"

MADOC.
MADOC."
By FAYR
Margaret Jermine.
M. YONGE.
Telemachus.
A
Modern
YONGE.
By CHARLOTTE
^ -j
"+J
SHORTHOUSE.
Sir Percival.
SHORTHOUSE."
By J. HENRV
Divided
A
House
OLIPHANT."
against Itself. By Mrs. OLIPHANT.
GENTLEMAN.'"
About
'JOHN
AUTHOR
OF
Money,
THE
HALIFAX,
and
other
HALIFAX, GENTLEMAN.'
Things.
By the author of 'JOHN
of a Phaeton.
BLACK.
The
By WILLIAM
BLACK."
Strange Adventures
ARNOLD.
ARNOLD.
By MATTHEW
Essays in Criticism.
HUGHES."
Tom
Brown's
Schooldays. By an OLD BOY.
M. YONGE.
YONGE."
The
Dove
in the Eagle's Nest.
By CHARLOTTE
A
OLIPHANT."
Beleaguered City. By Mrs. OLIPHANT.
MORLEY.
MORLEY."
Critical Miscellanies.
By JOHN
HARTE.
of Rough-and-Ready, etc. By BRET
A Millionaire
BRET
HARTE."
CRAWFORD.
CRAWFORD."
Saracinesca.
By F. MARION
VELEY.
other Stories.
of Memories
VELE
Y." A Garden
By MARGARET
: and
"

"

BLACK.
Sabina
Zembra.
By WILLIAM
HARDY.
The
HARDY."
Woodlanders.
By THOMAS
DILLWYN.
E.
A.
DILL
WYN."
Jill.
By
50.
Jill and Jack.
By E. A. DILLWYN.
51. DILLWYN."
WESTBURY
Hazzleden.
WESTBURY."
Frederick
By HUGH
52.
Romance.
The
New
2 vols.
: A
Antigone
54.
53.
HARTE.
HARTE."
Crusade
of the 'Excelsior.'
The
By BRET
55. BRET
Vacation
Cceruleans:
A
The
Idyll. BY H. S.
56. CUNNINGHAM."

48. BLACK."
49.

Ismay's

57.

58. HARTLEY."

59.
60.

CRAWFORD."
Zoroaster.
Hithersea
Mere.
NOEL."

By Mrs. NOF.L
CRAWFORD.
By F. MARION
NOEL.
By Lady AUGUSTA

Children.

*"* Other

Volumes

to

/allow.

HARTLEY.

vols.

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