Julian.

Northwards?

Nevita.

[Starts.] Of course, sire!

Julian.

We ought to have waited till Maximus——

Nevita.

What mean you, my Emperor? There is nothing to wait for. We are without supplies; scattered bands of the enemy’s horsemen are already appearing both in the east and in the south——

Julian.

Yes, yes, we must advance,—northwards. Maximus must soon be here. I have sent to the rear for the Etruscan soothsayers; they shall try once more—— I have also discovered some Magians, who say they are well versed in the Chaldean mysteries. Our own priests are taking the omens in nine different places——