"So be it," said the Prefect. "I have no reason to spare the brother of Severinus. But how can you possibly bring proofs against Belisarius? I am really curious. If you accomplish that, I will declare myself no less a novice in plots and machinations than in love and hatred."
"And that you are, you dull son of Latium! Now listen. But it is such a dangerous subject, that I must beg thee, Galatea, to keep watch that no one comes and listens. No, my good mother, not inside! I beg thee; outside the door. Leave me alone with the Prefect: it is--more's the pity--no secret of love?"
When, after some time, the Prefect left the room, he said to himself:
"If this woman were a man--I should kill her! She would be more dangerous than the barbarians and Belisarius together! But then, certainly, the iniquity would be neither so inscrutable nor so devilish!"
CHAPTER IX.
Soon after the Prefect had returned home, Syphax announced the son of Boëthius, who came from the Empress.
"'Let him enter, and admit no one else until he has gone," said Cethegus. "Meanwhile send quickly for Piso, the tribune."
And he rose to meet Anicius, who now entered the room.
Anicius was no longer a youth, and his delicate features were much improved by the expression of resolution which at this moment rested upon them. He was dressed very simply, and his hair, which was usually curled, now hung straight down.
"You remind me of your beautiful sister, Anicius."