For some moments there was silence between them. Suddenly Themistocles said fiercely, “As long as Cimon stays away from you, I care not to whom your heart may turn, even were it the son of my hated rival Aristides!”
“Father, for such you have been to me since Platæa,” said Ladice, her lips trembling with emotion, “I have wondered if Cimon’s animosity toward you is not aggravated by my coldness to him. Has it not occurred to you that he may consider that you alone are responsible for the failure of his suit? If I were to accept his attentions, is it not likely that he would discontinue his efforts to turn the Athenians against you?”
“It is possible, Ladice,” said the statesman sadly, “but I would under no consideration allow you to sacrifice your happiness for me. You are young, while I—perhaps it is better so!”
The girl touched the hand of her foster-father with loving tenderness as she said: “But what if I have found that I do love him, but have hesitated to speak before, knowing as I do your justified hatred of him!”
The hero of Salamis placed his hand under the maiden’s chin and lifted her face till he could search the eyes that sought to veil themselves beneath the sweeping lashes. His look seemed to penetrate the innermost recesses of her soul. She struggled to free herself from the gaze that held her, as she cried beseechingly: “Only believe me, Themistocles. Do you not see that I can marry the man I love and free you from the terrible disgrace which threatens you?”
The man’s arms dropped to his sides and his mighty head sank to his breast. Ladice stepped away smiling for she knew his attitude was significant of resignation.
CHAPTER XXI.
In the Shadow of the Acropolis.
“Oh, yet we trust that somehow good
Will be the final goal of ill,
To pangs of nature, sins of will,