When they were at a safe distance from the Palatine,
Marcian warned his friend against the Greek's indulgent manner; let
him not suppose that Bessas spoke one word sincerely.
'His aim at present, I see, is to put you off your guard; and
doubtless he is playing the like game with Petronilla. You will be
spied upon, day and night--I myself, you understand, being one of
the spies, but only one, unfortunately. This Thracian is not so easy
to deal with as the Hun at Cumae. There have been moments when I
thought he suspected me. If ever I vanish, Basil--'
He ceased with a significant look.
'Why does Totila delay?' exclaimed Basil, with a passionate gesture.
'He delays not. It is wisdom to conquer Campania before coming
hither. Another month will see him before Neapolis.'
'Could I but find Veranilda, make her my own, and put her in safety,
I would go straight to the king's camp, and serve him as best I
might.'
Marcian looked steadily at the speaker, smiling strangely.
'Why do you look at me so?' cried Basil. 'You doubt me? You distrust
my courage?'
'Not for a moment.
Pages:
195
196
197
198
199
200
201
202
203
204
205
206
207
208
209
210
211
212
213
214
215
216
217
218
219