"Yes, for it is your favor, sweet girl. I adore you, and shall have no other queen."
"I cannot give you my heart," said she, frankly. "It is impossible—I cannot bear to speak of it."
"And you would not share my power and glory with me?" said Antipater, turning, with a look of surprise.
Appius answered:
"Once before I have told you, my worthy prince, that whom the emperor chooses she will wed."
"Think not of that—I shall make terms with him," said Antipater. "She shall never wed a weak-hearted tribune."
"You speak lightly of my friend," said Appius. "I like it not, good sire."
"Son of Herod," said Arria, drawing rein, "we cannot longer enjoy your company."
Appius halted the troop.
For a little Antipater was dumb with astonishment. He drew aside, and when he spoke his voice trembled with ire, it was near bursting into fury.