“It is masterly!” exclaimed Quintus. “Cornelia is crazy about the sea, and Claudia and Lucilia will have no objections. If only the weather improves...”
“Oh! the day will be splendid,” said Aurelius, going into the hall. “The wind has quite gone down, and the clouds are parting. I asked Magus just now.”
“The idea is delightful. The more openly and boldly we go to work, the better. About what hour should we start?”
“I thought about three hours after sunrise.”
“Very good. I will let Cornelia and my sisters know; the rest I leave entirely to you, my dear Caius.”
“You shall not be disappointed,” said Aurelius, radiant with satisfaction.
“And where shall we meet? Out beyond the tomb of Cestius?”
“It will perhaps be better that you should come here, and we will proceed all together to the place where vehicles wait; that will look least suspicious and most natural.”
“So be it: we will go to the gates in a little party. Now farewell—I am very tired, and wish I had my litter.”
“Shall I...?” Aurelius began.