Artabazus’ features expressed surprise at meeting anyone at this time of the night.
“Well if it isn’t Zopyrus! Have you turned somnambulist?” he asked jocosely, but with a hint of mistrust in his voice.
“You forget, Artabazus, the task I am this night to perform at the fountain of Gargaphia. By the time I reach its vicinity the moon will be low.”
“To be sure I remember now, but whom have you with you?” questioned the officer curiously.
“Mardonius bade me take a man with me, and this youth wished to go,” replied Zopyrus with an air of indifference.
Artabazus looked disapprovingly at the slight figure of the foot-soldier.
“He doesn’t look very capable,” he remarked.
“Nevertheless he is courageous, and though young, I decided to try him out.”
“What is your name?” asked Artabazus of the silent figure.
The question took Zopyrus completely by surprise, but with joy he observed that Ladice maintained discreet silence.