Softly she corrected his error; her interest in the maiden
was a friendly one. Only let him discover for her where Veranilda
was concealed. Sagaris was led to avow that in this very search he
and his master had been vainly occupied for many a day; it had
carried them, he declared in a whisper, even to the camp of King
Totila. With this the questioner appeared to be satisfied, and the
Syrian was soon dismissed, promises in a caressing voice his sole
reward.
When Marcian next held speech with Heliodora--it was after some
days--she bore herself more openly. In the course of their talk,
he learnt that she had consulted an astrologer, and with results
wholly favourable to his design. Not only had this man foretold to
her that Totila was destined to reign gloriously over the Italians
for many years, but he saw in Heliodora's own fate a mysterious link
with that of the triumphant king; her, under the Gothic conquest,
great things awaited. 'Do,' was his counsel, 'that which thou hast
in mind.' Hearing all this, Marcian's heart leaped with joy. He
urged her to pursue their end with all the speed that prudence
permitted.
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