CHAPTER III
STILL ON THE WATCH.
Demonicus and Timon stood at the open door of the Christian church, not far from the Triple Arch of the city wall, listening to the voice of the shepherd Orestes, and eagerly watching for something whereby they might seize him and certain others. But Demonicus, sycophantes, constable, and gladiator all in one, was irritated, for the prize had not yet arrived; and as the time sped on, his tiger-nature exhibited itself in low growls at his calmer companion.
"Another day," snarled he, "and the case will have turned into other hands."
"I do not despair," replied Timon, "and yet, to be frank, I almost repent—it seems a shame to lay hands on such a woman."
"Art thou, my brave Timon, also becoming a meek and beautiful Christian?" said Demonicus with a sneer.
Annoyed at the tone, Timon answered firmly—"The lady's life is a blessing to Patara."
"Soft one, weak one, coward!" hissed Demonicus.
"The lady is a goddess!" cried Timon, galled into defiance, "and the coward is he that would lay foul hands upon her."