The scheme, which he set forth with much detail, seemed feasible enough, and when I had mastered its particulars I promised to report it to the Empress, and afterwards to speak with him further.
I left the chamber, and presently stood in the garden.

Although it was autumn time, the night in this mild climate was very warm and pleasant, and the moonlight threw black shadows of the trees across the paths.
Under one of these trees, an ancient, green-leaved oak, the largest of a little grove, I saw a woman sitting.

Perchance I knew who she was, perchance I had come thither to meet her, I cannot say.

At least, this was not our first meeting by many, for as I came she rose, lifting her flower-like face towards my own, and next moment was in my arms.
When we had kissed our full, we began to talk, seated hand in hand beneath the oak.
"What have you been doing this day, beloved ?" she asked.
"Much what I do every day, Heliodore.

I have attended to my duties, which are threefold, as Chamberlain, as Master of the Palace, and as Captain of the Guard.