“Noble lord,” said he, “here is a letter from Cæsar.”
Petronius extended his white hand lazily, took the tablet, and, casting his eye over it, gave it, in all calmness to Eunice.
“He will read a new book of the Troyad this evening, and invites me to come.’
“I have only the order to deliver the letter,” said the centurion.
“Yes, there will be no answer. But, centurion, thou mightst rest a while with us and empty a goblet of wine?”
“Thanks to thee, noble lord. A goblet of wine I will drink to thy health willingly; but rest I may not, for I am on duty.”
“Why was the letter given to thee, and not sent by a slave?”
“I know not, lord. Perhaps because I was sent in this direction on other duty.”
“I know, against the Christians?”
“Yes, lord.”