'
Basil was standing between the two women, his eyes on the ground.
Had he watched Heliodora at this moment, he would have understood
the sudden start with which Muscula sprang nearer to him as if for
protection.
'I alone,' she continued, in a voice not so subdued but that
Heliodora could hear every word. 'I alone can discover for you what
you wish to know. Give yourself no more trouble in suing to a woman
of whom you are weary--a woman evil and dangerous as a serpent.
When you choose to seek me, dear lord, I will befriend you. Till
that day, fare you well, and beware of other things than the
silver-hilted dagger--which she would draw upon me did she dare.
But she knows that I too have my little bosom friend--' she touched
her waist--'though it does not glitter before every eye.'
Therewith Muscula turned and tripped off, looking back to laugh
aloud before she disappeared in the corridor. Galla was already
gone, half persuaded, half threatened away by Vivian, who now stood
with knitted brows glaring at Basil.
'I must get rid of this boy,' said Heliodora to her companion.
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