And he related briefly the fall of the Prefect, and what position he now held near Amalaswintha.
Rauthgundis listened attentively; then she took his hand and pressed it.
"It is good, Witichis, that the Goths gradually find out thy worth, and thou art more cheerful, I think, than usual."
"Yes; I feel more contented since I can bear part of the burden of the time. It was much more difficult to stand idly by and see it pressing heavily upon my nation. I am only sorry for the Queen, she is like a prisoner."
"Bah! Why did the woman grasp at the office of a man? Such a thing would never enter my head."
"Thou art no Queen, Rauthgundis, and Amalaswintha is proud."
"I am ten times prouder than she! but not so vain. She can never have loved a man, nor understood his nature and worth, otherwise she could not wish to fill a man's place."
"At court that is looked upon in a different manner. But do come with me to Ravenna."
"No, Witichis," she quietly said, rising from her seat, "the court is not fit for me, nor I for the court. I am the child of a mountain farmer, and far too uncultured. Look at this brown neck," she laughed, "and these rough hands! I cannot tinkle on the lyre, or read verses. I should be ill suited for the fine Roman ladies, and thou wouldst have little honour with me."
"Surely thou dost not consider thyself too bad for the court?"