"That which made death the punishment of all accusations against the Empress, for it was the only way in which you could keep her." And he left the room.
"The insolent fellow!" cried Theodora, sending a venomous look after him. "He dares to threaten! When Belisarius has once been rendered harmless, Narses must quickly follow."
"But meanwhile we need them both," said Justinian. "Do you really propose, as the second general to be sent to Italy, the man who persuaded us to reject the proposals of Cassiodorus?"
"The same."
"But my distrust of that ambitious man has since then become stronger."
"Have you then forgotten," retorted Theodora, "who revealed the intentions of Silverius? Who was the first to warn you of Belisarius's dangerous game?"
"But he now frequents the company of the men who are conspiring against me!"
"Yes; but, O Justinian, it is by my order, as their destroyer."
"Indeed! But if he is also deceiving you?"
"Will you believe him and me, and send him to Italy, if he brings the conspirators to your feet in chains to-morrow, and amongst them their unknown chief?"