In the vestibule he met the two Licinii, who were watching for him impatiently.
"To-day is the day," cried Lucius, "with the prospect of which you have so long comforted us!"
"Where is the proof of your trust in our courage, our skill, and our fidelity!" asked Marcus.
"Patience!" said Cethegus, lifting his forefinger; and he went into his study.
He shortly reappeared, his sword and many papers under his left arm, a sealed roll in his right hand. His eyes flashed.
"Is the outermost gate of the Moles Hadriani ready?" he asked.
"Ready," answered Lucius Licinius.
"Is the grain from Sicily stored in the Capitol?"
"All stored."
"Are the weapons distributed, and the ramparts of the Capitol completed as I ordered?"