"I drank a whole mouthful, Commodus. How hot your hand is! Feel—feel the cup—you can feel with your finger how much I have tasted. I broke the seal of a fresh jar of Falernian."
"Some of your Christians might have tampered with it!"
"No, no, Commodus. That jar has been in the cellar since before you were born and the seal was intact. I washed the cup myself."
"Well, taste again. Sit here on the bed where I can feel your heart- beats."
Presently he gave a gasp and belched, as always after he had swallowed a whole cupful at one draught.
"Now close the shutters and bolt them on the inside; there might be some of your Christians lurking on the balcony."
"In this storm, Commodus? And there are guards on duty."
"Close them, I say! Who trusts the guards! Did they guard the tunnel? I will rid Rome of all Christians tomorrow! Aye, and of many another reptile! They have robbed me of my fun in the arena—I will find another way to interest myself! Now bring me a fresh lamp in here, and set the tablets by the bed."
She came out, shutting the door behind her, then stood listening. She did not tremble. Her wrist was red where Commodus had held it.
"How long?" she whispered, looking at Galen.