'You are right, dear Basil. Only an accident prevented me from being
alone at your hour. Forgive me. We will go apart from these
base-tongued creatures.'
But almost in the same moment sounded another voice, that of
Muscula, who had sprung after them.
'Sweet lord Basil,' she murmured at his ear, 'a moment's patience,
for I have that to say which is worth your hearing.'
Heliodora stepped aside. Pale with fury, she held herself in an
attitude of contemptuous indifference.
'Speak and have done!' exclaimed Basil harshly.
'But a word, Illustrious. I know well why you are here. Not for this
woman's painted cheeks and essence-soaked hair: you had enough of
that long ago. You come because she pretends to know a secret which
concerns you nearly. It was to discover this secret that she sought
friendship with me. But do not imagine, sweet lord, that I tell all
I know to Heliodora. I have played with her curiosity and fooled
her. From me she has learnt nothing true. Even if she desired to
tell you the truth--and be sure she does not--she could only
mislead you.
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