“I cursed the fates who so wrongfully treat us,” replied Nero.
“Ah, my son,” exclaimed Agrippina, reproachfully, “have a care! Never let thy feelings overcome thy judgment. I warned Drusus but a moment ago to guard his words. Guard thine also. O my son, enemies lurk on every side. But this morning, while talking with Drusus, we found a servant transcribing on a tablet our conversation. Even in our home we must be guarded in our speech.”
“Thy favorite charioteer has run away, my brother,” said Nero, looking at Drusus.
“Who? Gyges?” quickly asked his brother.
“Ay, Gyges,” replied Nero.
“What has he done?” inquired Drusus.
“I know not. He has been tracked to Albanum,” answered Nero.
“But why should he run away?” asked Drusus. “He was the most honest charioteer in the Circus.”
“Ay. I know not,” said Nero. “He loved the dancing-girl, Psyche.”
“The pretty little Greek?” asked Agrippina.