‘It would be curious to know how the fair Plautia is pleased,’ said Afer.
‘I do not know; and whatever her experiences may be, and whatever befall her, she must abide by it, for she would take her own headstrong way.’
‘She will be seen and whispered of through the island, as sure as yon sun shines upon us. Inquiries will be made. Are you not afraid of contingencies arising, which it would be unwise and unnecessary to provoke—with your pardon, Prefect, for speaking thus.’
The confidential follower nodded significantly toward the west, as if to indicate some particular part of the island. Sejanus regarded him earnestly for a space, and then replied slowly—
‘You are right, Afer. I understand what you mean. I thought of that possibility when I granted beauty’s request, but I was too hasty and hurried at the time. I am more impressed with it now. This state of things is too dangerous; it must be altered, my Titus.’
‘It would be wise to bring the lady’s visit to a sudden and hasty close,’ rejoined Afer.
‘By Hercules! it must be done,’ muttered Sejanus, knitting his brows. ‘Only think, if my lady Livia were to hear! Come, let us go back to my house. I was intending to depart straight to the villa of Neptune; but not now. One thing is sure; I must see this bold damsel, as soon as there is sufficient darkness to cover one’s movements. Come, let us march! May all the powers in heaven give her prudence and keep her in-doors till night. Given that, then the morn may break upon her at a safer distance.’
At a certain time previous to this conversation, the old man Tucca emerged from his dwelling and made toward the town. On the outskirts thereof was a wine tavern—a small, unpretending house, standing in a very narrow lane. It was the tavern of Paula. He went in and inquired of the widow herself for Alexander. She was a native of the island, like himself, and, of course, known to him, as long as she had lived, some five-and-forty years. A quiet smile rested on her yet comely face when, after a few commonplace remarks, Tucca made his inquiry. She brought him upstairs into a cell-like [pg 170]room, just large enough to hold a pallet-bed, whereon Zeno lay asleep.
‘Well, friend Tucca!’ said the steward, starting up and stretching himself; ‘what news? I am revenging myself, as you see, for my early business this morning.’
‘She has sent me to get tablets, wax, and thread,’ said the old man.