‘I have been sorely tried,’ he replied, drawing a deep breath; ‘if such an idea flashed into my mind it died on the instant—you need have no fear.’
‘I knew it,’ said Tiberius; ‘I love my Pretorians, and an officer and youth of such prowess as you have proved yourself to possess, is well worthy of the mature consideration of a ruler. The circumstances of your case are so unusual that my interest has led me to visit you personally.’
Martialis bowed his head.
‘One thing seems to demand forbearance, and that is your youth, with its hot unreasoning blood. Without thought, scruple, or calculation of a moment, you plunge headlong into my chamber, amid my guests and servants, utterly regardless of everything, in pursuit of your sweetheart, just as you would, doubtless, have rushed into the midst of a band of Satyrs.’
‘You are right—I was excited to desperation—I would have followed her anywhere—nor do I now repent,’ said the young man frankly; ‘the welfare of my betrothed is more to me than life itself.’
Tiberius nodded gently, with a countenance as impassive as the Sphinx.
‘I entreated your pardon, Caesar, for my rude intrusion into the privacy of the Imperial chamber, and I humbly submit my fault once more for your forbearance and forgiveness,’ added Martialis quickly.
‘It was a fault which set at defiance all discipline, authority, and respect. What then is the punishment? You, as a soldier, ought to know.’
‘I am well aware that my offence brings me within the extreme punishment of all. Caesar is master of life and death.’
‘Is there any reason why the penalty should not be enforced?’