“Look, they are near the land!” said the Prince Tiberius, still excitedly watching the boat with its five brave occupants.
“Ah, at last they are saved!” cried Caligula, as the boat entered the waters on the lee side of the island.
The spectators of this heroic struggle descended from the tower and walked around the garden of the villa, looking at the destruction caused by the terrific storm. Some time after, while they were thus occupied, a soldier approached the emperor and said, “A messenger from Rome craves admittance.”
“Ha! The boat, then, brings tidings from Rome! The news must be urgent!” he exclaimed. “Has the messenger been searched?” he asked, turning to the soldier.
“Ay, my lord; he is the bearer of a letter,” replied the man.
“Send him to me,” commanded Tiberius.
Drenched to the skin, the young messenger presented himself before the emperor. He handed him a letter, which he had succeeded in preserving from the fury of the elements.
“’Tis from Antonia,” said Tiberius, as he looked at the seal.
“Ay, my lord,” replied the messenger.
“Follow me,” ordered Tiberius, as he led the way into the villa. “What were thy orders?” he inquired, when they had reached the office.