But I know nothing.'
Basil kept his eyes down for a long minute, then moved like one who
has taken a resolve.
'Show me the letter you bear,' he commanded.
Sagaris produced it, and having looked at the seal, Basil silently
handed it back again.
'Thrice noble,' pleaded the slave, 'you will not deliver me to my
lord's wrath?'
'Have no fear; unless in anything you have lied to me. Follow.'
They descended the stairs, and Basil had himself conducted to the
house where Venantius sate at dinner. He spoke with the captain in
private.
'This slave has a letter, not merely a message, for the king. He
says it is urgent, and so it may be; but, from what I have learnt I
doubt whether he is wholly to be trusted. Can you send some one with
him?'
'Nothing easier.'
'I,' continued Basil, 'ride straightway for Arpinum. Ask me no
questions, Venantius. When I return, if I do return, you shall know
what sent me there. I may be back speedily.'
He took food, and in an hour's time was ready to start. Of his
followers, he chose ten to accompany him. The rest remained at
Aesernia.
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