But Julius quietly shook his head.
"You have not yet seen the Huns and Massagetæ of Belisarius, who are to bring you freedom. Where, then, are the Romans of whom you speak? Has Italy risen to throw off her fetters? Can she still rise? Justinian fights with the Goths, not we. Woe to the people which is liberated by a tyrant!"
In secret Cethegus confessed that Julius was right; but he would not suffer such words to be spoken before his friends.
"I must dispute with this philosopher in private," he said. "Let me know if anything occur among the priesthood."
And the tribunes went, casting contemptuous looks at Julius.
"I should not like to hear what my friends say of you," said Cethegus, looking after them.
"It is quite indifferent to me. I listen to my own thoughts, and not to those of others," responded Julius.
"He has become a man!" said Cethegus to himself.
"My deepest and best feelings have brought me here," continued Julius. "I feel that this war is accursed. I come to save you, and take you from this sultry air, from this world of deceit and lies. I beseech you, my friend, my father, follow me to Gaul!"
"I leave Italy at the moment of the liberators' approach! You must know that it was I who called them; I kindled this war, which you call accursed!"