'What woman ?' asked Sagaris in astonishment.
And the answer was whispered, 'Muscula.' Now Muscula's name and position were well known to the Syrian.

The reproach of the mysterious fair one made him swell with pride; he affected inability to deny the charge, and in the next breath declared that Muscula was but his sport, that in truth he cared nothing for her, he did but love her as he had loved women numberless, not only in Rome, but in Alexandria, Antioch, Constantinople.

The muffled lady gave a deep sigh.

Ah! and so it would be with _her_, were she weak enough to yield to _her_ passion.

Sagaris began to protest, to vow.
'It is vain,' replied the amorous voice.