particular, especially with regard to Ulpius Trajanus.[121] He spoke of his distinguished services in the campaigns against the Northmen; he particularly remarked that at that time--at the head of your legions, when you had the power entirely in your own hands--you never laid any ambitious plans, and he wondered how it could have come to pass, that so moderate a man, after achieving such splendid deeds, should be now placed in the position of a Catiline. All this was said in broken phrases and a low conversational tone, and then they went on to speak of the games and races in the circus of Lugdunum. However, it was enough for me. The whole tone and style of their speech had convinced me, that I was listening to people of position and influence; I therefore determined to keep my men in sight, and when they rose and set out I followed them, leaving the horses in the copse. Before long I observed a villa, and meeting some slaves returning from labor in the fields, I learnt, in answer to my questions, that the noble personage who walked on so unpretentiously was the Imperial Propraetor, and had been stopping for a few days in his country-house, as he was particularly devoted to sport. Indeed, as I approached the house, I saw a number of soldiers and a guard of honor,[122] which left no doubt as to the rank of the owner. Then I felt as if the gods themselves had inspired me.--My resolution was taken at once. I wrote a few lines on my wax-tablet, gave it to my rower, and desired him, in case I should not return from the Propraetor’s villa, to carry them to Herodianus, that he might give you all due warning. Still, I had every hope that the immortals would crown my rashness with success. My slave left me; I went forward, and had myself announced to the Propraetor with the notice that I had a most important communication to make to him. Ten minutes later I was standing face to face with the governor of the province.--My lord, said I, as calmly and steadily as if I had arrived to announce some imperial fiat--I come in the name of Cinna, of Nerva, and of Trajan, to inform you, that they have determined to accuse Domitian before the Senate,[123] charging him with high-treason, and to depose him, and to this end to lead the legions of this province against Rome...." “What madness!” cried Cinna, horrified. “Yes, noble Cinna,” said Aurelius, frankly; “now, when I calmly think it over, I am astonished at my own audacity. And yet--what was I risking after all? My life! And my freedman would have had ample time to warn you.--This occurred the day before yesterday.” Cinna changed color from red to white, and from white to red again. “Go on, go on!” urged the others; and Aurelius proceeded: