Outside, under the branches of the elm and sycamore-trees, which stretched in long avenues up the Viminal and down again on the farthest side, an ingenious intendant had devised much such an entertainment as in our days would be given under corresponding circumstances. Thousands of colored lamps hung in long festoons from tree to tree. The quaintly-clipped laurel and yew bushes, that stood between the six great avenues, were starred with semicircular lights, and the bronze and marble statues held torches and braziers of flame. The open space between the two centre avenues was screened by an immense curtain of purple stuff, which was fastened to two tall masts and waved mysteriously in the night air, casting strange reflections; to the right and left also a space was enclosed and screened from prying eyes by boards hung with tapestry. “This promises something delightful,” said Clodianus, addressing Quintus for the first time during the evening. “She is a splendid creature, this Lycoris! Always ready to spend millions for the pleasure of her guests. Did you ever see handsomer hangings? Nero’s enormous velarium[178] was not more costly.” “Oh! gold is all-powerful!” Quintus said absently. “Listen,” he went on, taking the officer on one side, “quite in confidence.--Is what I heard to-day at the baths of Titus[179] true?--that you had really been to Domitia?” “As you say.” “It is true then?” “And why not? You know what happened in the Circus?” “Of course; but I thought....” “No, there was no help for it this time. I solemnly and formally offered her the hand of reconciliation in Caesar’s name.” “And Domitia?” “To-morrow she will return an answer to her husband’s message; but, of course, she is only too ready.” At this moment the fair Massilian came up to them. “Quintus, one word with you,” she begged with an engaging smile. “You will excuse him, Clodianus?” The officer bowed. “Listen,” said Lycoris, as she drew Quintus away, “you must tell me all you can about your provincial friend. The man is unbearable with his strictness and sobriety, and yet there is something in him--how can I explain it?--something that is wanting in every one of you others without exception; a balance of mind, a steadfast certainty--one may as well give in as soon as he opens his mouth.” And as she spoke she laid her hand familiarly in the young man’s arm. “Very true,” he said coldly. “Aurelius is not much like those oiled and perfumed gallants, who think themselves happy to kiss the dust on your sandals. But that boy is waiting to speak to you.” Lycoris looked round; a young slave, who had slowly followed her, glanced at her significantly. “Madam,” he said, “everything is ready.” “Ah?” said the lady. “The actors are ready? Very good; then let the music begin.” The slave bowed and vanished. Lycoris imperceptibly guided her companion into a thickly overgrown sidewalk.