“And the auguries were all propitious.”
“The promise of the augurs may not jump with thy desire,” he replied.
She had no time for more words, as her hand was caught by L. Ælius Lamia, who drew her aside into the lararium or chapel.
“My dearest,” he said, “this is a day of trial to thee—but we shall be left undisturbed shortly. The guests depart and the riot will cease.”
She looked at him, with eyes that brimmed with tears, and a sob relieved her heart, as she cast herself on his breast and said:—
“Quoniam tu Caius, ego Caia.”
CHAPTER XXIII.
THE END OF THE DAY.
A rumor, none knew from whom it arose, spread rapidly in whispers, sending a quiver of alarm, distress, pity, through the entire wedding party, reaching last of all him most concerned.