"Learn then--you before all others--what no one outside the palace knows: the Emperor's indecision is at an end. He has decided upon war with the Goths."
"At last!" cried Antonina, with a beaming countenance.
"Yes; but--think of the shame! Belisarius is not appointed commander-in-chief."
"Who else?" asked Antonina angrily.
"I am one of the generals----"
She looked at him suspiciously.
"Yes; it was my aim long since, I confess. But the second in command is to be Areobindos. I cannot conquer the Goths with him, hindered by his ignorance. No one can conquer the Goths but Belisarius. Therefore I must have him near me, or, for aught I care, over me. See, Antonina, I hold myself to be the greater statesman----"
"My Belisarius is a hero, no statesman!" cried the proud wife.
"But it would be ridiculous to compare myself as a general with the conqueror of the Vandals, Goths, and Persians. You see that I openly confess that I am not influenced only by friendship to Belisarius, but also by egotism. I must have Belisarius for a comrade."
"That is clear," said Antonina, much pleased.