CHAPTER XVI.
AN ECSTASY.
“I have come, dear Domitia, with a petition,” said the widow of Flavius Clemens. “And it is one you will wound me if you refuse.”
“But who would wound so gentle a breast?” answered Domitia, kissing her visitor. “He must be heartless who draws a bow against a dove.”
“Hearken first to what I ask. I am bold—but my very feebleness inspires me with audacity.”
“What is it, then?”
“That you come with me to my villa for a little change of scene, air and society. It will do you good.”
“And I cannot refuse. It is like your sweet spirit to desire nothing save what is kindly intended and does good to others.”
“As you have assented so graciously, I will push my advance a little further and say—Return with me to-day. Let us travel together. If you will—I have a double litter—and we can chatter as two magpies together.”
“Magpies bring sorrow.”