"If he sign this, then, indeed, not a Goth will raise his sword in his defence. But----"
"Let me manage the 'buts.' Either he will voluntarily sign it to-day, unread, under pressure of the moment----"
"Or?"
"Or," concluded Cethegus gloomily, "he will sign it later, against his will. I will now go before you. Excuse me if I do not assist at your triumphal procession. Many congratulations to Belisarius."
But as he turned to go, Belisarius himself entered the tent, unarmed, and looking very sullen. He was followed by Antonina.
"Hasten, general," cried Procopius, "Ravenna waits for her conqueror. The entrance----"
"Speak not of it!" cried Belisarius angrily. "I regret the whole affair! Recall the soldiers!"
Cethegus remained standing at the entrance of the tent.
"Belisarius!" cried Procopius, horrified, "what demon has put you into this temper?"
"I!" said Antonina proudly. "What do you say now?"