Let me now speak again
of Venantius. He would fain know you.'
'He is one of ours?'
'One of those true Romans who abhor the Eastern tyranny and see in
the Goth a worthy ally. Will you ride with me to-morrow to Nuceria?'
'I cannot,' replied Basil, 'for I dare not leave Veranilda without
protection, after what you have told me.'
'Why, then, Venantius must come hither.'
Whilst the friends were thus conversing a courier rode forth from
Surrentum towards Neapolis. He bore a letter whereof the contents
were these:--
'To the holy and reverend deacon Leander, Petronilla's humble
salutation.
'I am most punctually informed of all that passes at the villa. My
nephew goes not to Rome; his place will be taken by Decius. The
reason is that which I have already suggested to your Sanctity.
Marcian has arrived this afternoon, coming I know not whence, but I
shall learn. I suspect things of the darkest moment. Let your
Sanctity pursue the project with which heaven has inspired you. You
shall receive, if necessary, two missives every day. Humbly I
entreat your prayers.
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