"I will not dispute about that," answered Cethegus with a smile; "only I should like to preserve my fatherland from your tyrant."
"I don't blame you for it," said Procopius, smiling also; "the blessings of our rule are--stifling."
"A native governor under the protection of Byzantium will suffice at first."
"To be sure. And his name would be--Cethegus!"
"If it must be so--that too."
"Listen," said Procopius earnestly, "I would only advise you against one thing. The air of Rome engenders proud plans. There, as master of Rome, a man is not willing to be only the second in the world. And believe the historian--nothing more can come of the universal Empire of Rome."
Cethegus felt annoyed. He thought of King Theodoric's warning.
"Historicus of Byzantium, I know my Roman affairs better than you. First let me initiate you into our Roman secrets; then, early to-morrow, before the embassy arrives from Rome, procure me an interview with Belisarius, and--be sure of a great success."
And he now began to unfold to the astonished Procopius, in rapid outlines, the secret history of the latest times and his plans for the future, wisely veiling his ultimate aim.
"By the manes of Romulus!" cried Procopius, when he had finished, "you still make history on the Tiber. Well, here is my hand. You shall have my assistance. Belisarius shall win, but not rule in Italy. Let us empty a flask of dry 'Sallustius' upon it!"