"I did not know she was his daughter.

What is she like, Martina ?" "I have not seen her, Empress, but someone said that she is a black-looking woman, such as the Nile breeds." "Is it so?
Then I charge you, Olaf, keep her far from me, for I love not these ugly black women, whose woolly hair always smells of grease.

Yes, I give you leave to court her, if you will, since thereby you may learn some secrets," and she laughed merrily.
I bowed, saying that I would obey the Augusta's orders to the best of my power, and she went on: "Olaf, I would discover the truth concerning this Magas and his schemes, which as a soldier you are well fitted to find out.

It seems he has a plan for the recovery of Egypt out of the hands of the followers of that accursed false prophet whose soul dwells with Satan.

Now, I would win back Egypt, if I may, and thereby add glory to my name and the Empire.
Hear all that he proposes, study it well, and make report to me.
Afterwards I will see him alone, who for the present will send him a letter by the hand of Martina here bidding him open all his heart to you.