"Let us hasten to the harbour, to receive our Imperial master," cried Belisarius.
He was disappointed in his joy and pride when, on their way to Classis, they were met by the first courtiers who had disembarked, and who demanded quarters in the palace, not for the Emperor, but for his nephew Germanus.
"At least he sends the next in rank," said Belisarius--consoling himself--to Cethegus as they went on. "Germanus is the noblest man at court. Just, incorruptible, and pure. They call him 'The Lily of the Swamp.' But you do not listen to me!"
"Pardon! but I saw my young friend Lucius Licinius in the crowd of people who are approaching us."
"Salve, Cethegus!" cried Lucius as he made his way to the Prefect.
"Welcome to free Italy! What news from the Empress?" asked Cethegus in a whisper.
"Her parting word, 'Nike!' (Victoria), and this letter," Lucius whispered just as softly. "But," and he frowned, "never again send me to that woman!"
"No, no, young Hippolytus, I think it will never again be necessary."
They had now reached the quay of the harbour, the steps of which the Imperial Prince was just ascending. His noble form distinguished itself from the crowd of splendid courtiers who surrounded him, and he was received by the troops and the people with imperial honours and cries of joy.
Cethegus looked keenly at him.