For a moment Teja and Mataswintha measured each other with distrustful looks.
"I must thank thee, Earl Teja of Tarentum," at last the Princess said. "I was in danger while pursuing my lonely devotions."
"A strange place and time for thee to choose for thy prayers. Let us see if this Roman was the only enemy."
He took the light from Aspa's hand, and went into the chapel.
Presently he returned, a leathern shoe, inlaid with gold, in his hand.
"I found nothing--but this sandal by the altar, close to the statue of the Apostle. It is a man's shoe."
"A votive offering of mine," said Syphax quickly. "The Apostle healed my foot, which a thorn had wounded."
"I thought the Snake-god was thine only god?"
"I worship whatever can help me."
"In which foot did the thorn wound thee?"