“Ay; the blame of that deed rests with the Senate.”

“That is hard to believe,” she said with a sigh.

Abruptly dropping this embarrassing subject, Sejanus exclaimed, “Thy son Nero will rejoice when Tiberius leaves the city.”

“Has he told thee so?” she asked quickly.

“Nay; but he will be more free.”

“Thinkest thou so?”

“Ay. Nero is a promising son of the noble Germanicus. He is beloved by the Senate.”

“He deserves their affection.”

“And Drusus is also beloved, but by the legions. He prefers the life of a soldier.”

“Ay; but that will be denied him.”