To resolve these and many other questions, he had only the one moment in which he stooped.
But his quick mind needed no more. He had seen, while in the act of stooping, the unsuspicious, trusting look of Cassiodorus, and, giving the stylus to the Princess, he spoke with decision:
"Queen, I undertake the business."
"That is well," said the Princess.
Cassiodorus pressed his hand.
"When Cassiodorus proposed me for this office," continued Cethegus, "he gave another proof of his deep knowledge of mankind. He has seen the kernel through the shell."
"What do you mean?" asked Amalaswintha.
"Queen, appearances might have deceived him. I confess that I do not like to see the barbarians--pardon, the Goths--reigning in Italy."
"This frankness honours you, and I pardon the feeling in a Roman."
"Besides that, I have taken no interest in public affairs for some years. After having experienced varied passions, I now live in the calm and retirement of my country villas, cultivating the sportive muse, enjoying my books, and untroubled by the cares of kings."