Rather take the life which you will not long have power to shield. You say the Emperor is at death’s door. [He rises.] My Caesar, what I have sworn to conceal, I now reveal to you. There is no hope for you in the Emperor’s decay. The Emperor is taking a new wife.
Julian.
Ah, what madness! How can you think——?
Sallust.
The Emperor is taking a new wife, my lord! [He hands him some papers.] Read, read, noble Caesar; these letters will leave you no room for doubt.
Julian.
[Seizing the papers, and reading.] Yes, by the light and might of Helios——!
Sallust.
Oh that I had dared to speak sooner!
Julian.