The ablest minds have their weaknesses, and it was beyond the power of the formidable Prefect’s affected scorn to hide the gratification which this flattery of the influence of his personal advantages caused to lurk in his very handsome face. His client well knew that he need have little fear of giving offence by straining too grossly on the point, so he proceeded— ‘Until you are able, therefore, to render another reason for the divine Plautia’s presence, it will be vain to dislodge my opinion.’ ‘I really cannot say, except that it is merely a woman’s whim,’ returned the other, shrugging his shoulders pityingly. ‘’Tis strange I forgot she was coming.’ ‘What? did you then know?’ said Afer in surprise. ‘Had the least thought of it troubled my brain I must have told you before now. Ere we left Rome she vowed, for some reason which I could not discover, that she would pay a sly visit to Capreae. She would not be dissuaded, and for the sake of peace I consented. I arranged her conveyance hither; for the rest she must take her chance.’ ‘How did she come?’ ‘In the vessel of one Tigellinus, who has periodical business in the island.’ Both men burst into a laugh. ‘It would be curious to know how the fair Plautia is pleased,’ said Afer. ‘I do not know; and whatever her experiences may be, and whatever befall her, she must abide by it, for she would take her own headstrong way.’ ‘She will be seen and whispered of through the island, as sure as yon sun shines upon us. Inquiries will be made. Are you not afraid of contingencies arising, which it would be unwise and unnecessary to provoke—with your pardon, Prefect, for speaking thus.’ The confidential follower nodded significantly toward the west, as if to indicate some particular part of the island. Sejanus regarded him earnestly for a space, and then replied slowly— ‘You are right, Afer. I understand what you mean. I thought of that possibility when I granted beauty’s request, but I was too hasty and hurried at the time. I am more impressed with it now. This state of things is too dangerous; it must be altered, my Titus.’ ‘It would be wise to bring the lady’s visit to a sudden and hasty close,’ rejoined Afer. ‘By Hercules! it must be done,’ muttered Sejanus, knitting his brows. ‘Only think, if my lady Livia were to hear! Come, let us go back to my house. I was intending to depart straight to the villa of Neptune; but not now. One thing is sure; I must see this bold damsel, as soon as there is sufficient darkness to cover one’s movements. Come, let us march! May all the powers in heaven give her prudence and keep her in‐doors till night. Given that, then the morn may break upon her at a safer distance.’