But Sahira, not noticing that her father was ill, was looking down at the white group, now kneeling on the ground, while the white-haired elder prayed, with arms up-raised.
There was another shout.
Martius who had never felt cooler in his life, saw Lycias and touched
Marcus on the arm.
"Come," he said. "We are not far from the entrance. Quick!"
Martius seized Virgilia in his arms; Marcus led his mother and
Hermione.
It was but a step, a moment and they were by the side of Lycias. Hermione was fainting. The gladiator lifted her as easily as if she were a child.
"Follow me," said Lycias, striding before them.
Dazed, scarcely knowing where they were or what they were doing, the women, clinging to the men; walked along the narrow way. In the circus, there were more shouts and cries. Hermione trembled in the strong arms of Lycias. He soothed her gently.
"Pray to your God," he said, "that He may bring us safely through."
"Who are you?"