A ray of joyful hope shone from Mataswintha'a eyes. Cethegus failed not to remark it, but, smiling calmly, he left the room.
CHAPTER XXVII.
Soon after the Prefect had left the Queen it became quite dark.
The sky was thickly covered with ragged clouds, which were driven across the moon by the fierce wind, so that brief and uncertain light alternated with a gloom rendered greater by contrast.
Dromon had completed his evening round of the cells, and returned to his dwelling tired and sad.
He found no light within. He could scarcely make out that Rauthgundis was still leaning against the half«door, the axe in her hand, her eyes fixed upon the door of the passage.
"Let me strike a light, mistress, and kindle the chips upon the hearth. Share the evening meal with me. Come, you wait here in vain."
"No, no light, no fire! I can see better what happens in the court without, for it is moonlight."
"Well, at least come in here and rest yourself. Here is bread and meat."
"Shall I eat while he hungers?"