‘You said you knew them.’
‘I know that I have seen him in Rome, and that he lives on the Esquiline; but what he does here I don’t know. Very likely on the same errand as my poor self—change of air and a holiday.’
‘Is he a great man?’
‘In his own estimation, doubtless—he is of knightly rank, I believe.’
‘His behaviour did not keep pace with his rank then—I hope he may not pay us another visit.’
‘’Tis very likely he may if he has come to sojourn here for a time. If he does don’t fail to tell me of it, and of all he says. He is one of your well-dressed scamps, and thinks that every good-looking poor girl is fair prey—the city swarms with such. But let me know, and don’t be afraid. I am city-bred like himself, and know a thing or two, and will soon put an end to his little game if he means anything.’
Cestus squared his shoulders as he uttered this brave speech, and went, with something of a swagger in his gait, to reach down his cloak.
‘Oh, I’m not afraid,’ replied Neæra calmly, ‘and I have my father at hand.’
‘Ay, that’s true!’ said Cestus slily, ‘and another still better, who could tear the cur limb from limb—nevertheless, don’t fail to let me know. I have some previous knowledge of the fellow, which makes me curious, and I may easily be useful.’
Thus delivering himself he went forth into the bright sunlight and the crisp keen air. Instinctively his feet turned in the direction of the road which led to the southern promontory of Minerva. It was a customary route of his, but it was also on a main line of communication with the island, and the desperate chance of meeting with somebody, or something, which might afford a glimmer even of news, burned stronger than ever in his breast. This something was, however, painfully vague, and the somebody really limited itself to only one person. The sight of Martialis would have been as joyful to him as rain to the thirsty in the desert, taking even into consideration, that what the Centurion could impart, even if he should prove to have the inclination, would hardly be likely to throw any light upon his peculiar needs. Added to this was the fact of the young soldier’s aversion. But Cestus was not easily abashed or discouraged, and had no fear of being able finally to command attention.