And he kicked the thoroughly cowed animal between the ribs with such violence, that with a howl it flew into the farthest comer of the room, where it remained trembling and crouching, with its eyes fixed upon its subduer. "Belisarius only mastered the forts, but not the language of Persia," said Cethegus. "And these beasts do not understand Greek. You are grimly guarded, Antonina, when Belisarius is absent," he added, as he hid his dagger in the folds of his dress. "What brings you to my house?" Antonina asked, still trembling. "My often misdoubted friendship. I would save your husband, who has the courage of a lion, but not the dexterity of a mouse! Procopius is unfortunately absent, or I should have sent that better-trusted adviser, I know that a heavy blow threatens Belisarius from the Emperor. We must ward it off. The favour of the Emperor----" "Is very fickle, I know. But the services of Belisarius----" "Are his ruin. Justinian would not fear an insignificant man. But he fears Belisarius." "That we have often experienced," sighed Antonina. "Learn then--you before all others--what no one outside the palace knows: the Emperor's indecision is at an end. He has decided upon war with the Goths." "At last!" cried Antonina, with a beaming countenance. "Yes; but--think of the shame! Belisarius is not appointed commander-in-chief." "Who else?" asked Antonina angrily. "I am one of the generals----" She looked at him suspiciously. "Yes; it was my aim long since, I confess. But the second in command is to be Areobindos. I cannot conquer the Goths with him, hindered by his ignorance. No one can conquer the Goths but Belisarius. Therefore I must have him near me, or, for aught I care, over me. See, Antonina, I hold myself to be the greater statesman----" "My Belisarius is a hero, no statesman!" cried the proud wife. "But it would be ridiculous to compare myself as a general with the conqueror of the Vandals, Goths, and Persians. You see that I openly confess that I am not influenced only by friendship to Belisarius, but also by egotism. I _must_ have Belisarius for a comrade." "That is clear," said Antonina, much pleased. "But Justinian is not to be persuaded to appoint him. Still more, he again suspects him, and indeed more than ever." "But, by all the saints! wherefore?" "Belisarius is innocent; but he is very imprudent. For months he has received secret letters, notes, and warnings--stuck into his bathing-robe, or thrown into his garden--which invite him to take part in a conspiracy." "Heavens! You know of this?" stammered Antonina. "Unfortunately not I only, but also others--the Emperor himself!" "But the conspiracy is not against the Emperor's life or throne," said Antonina apologetically.