Lygdus met him, and together they went into the chamber of Drusus. Sejanus smiled as he contemptuously pushed the dead face of his innocent victim. “Was it soon over?” whispered Sejanus. “Ay; ’twas a tame death. He called for water, became unconscious, fell upon the floor, and died,” answered the eunuch in a low tone. “Were the guests frightened?” “Verily; they waited not the emperor’s departure.” “But I must hasten! Await me at the palace entrance,” ordered Sejanus, as he went towards Livilla’s room. Livilla was anxiously awaiting his arrival. Scarcely had the curtain covered the door when she threw herself into his arms. Clasped in the embrace of her infamous lover, she received strength and assurance. “’Tis over,” she said in a whisper. “Ay, my heart’s love; now thou art free!” “Softly, O Sejanus, my mother is near,” said Livilla, drawing away. “Did the emperor tremble?” he asked. “Nay; he appeared anxious only to leave,” she replied. “And Lygdus?” “His face remained stolid during the most critical moments.” “Ah! Said I not that he was trustworthy? He shall be well paid for his performance.” “Ah, my lover, I feel a heaviness in my breast, and my head pains me.” “’Tis but the excitement, Livilla. But I must hasten to the Palatine Hill! Thou shalt see me on the morrow. Fare thee well, my love!” “Happy omens be thy speed, O my lover,” said Livilla, kissing him. As he left, the noise of a crying child was heard. It was one of the little twins, who, awakening and feeling lonely, wished for a soothing hand to caress him. Livilla hastened to the little boy and patted him gently. He whispered, “Father, father,” and fell peacefully asleep. She stood there some time, oppressed and tormented by her thoughts. Finally she buried her face in the covers of his little bed and broke into smothered sobs. So did her mother find her, and so was her mother deceived into believing that those tears were the tears of a loving and sorrowing wife. Chapter IX