I am not here to call any one to account, but only to see that the Gothic beauty comes safe to Aesernia as soon as may be.' 'You will find her within,' muttered Basil.
'And Marcian?
I might have thought I came inopportunely to this dwelling, but that he himself wrote to the king that the lady was here.' 'You are assured of that ?' Basil asked, under his breath.
'I have Totila's word for it, at all events.

But you seem indisposed for talk, lord Basil, and my business is with Marcian.

The slaves all look scared, and can't or won't answer a plain question.

I have no time to waste.

Tell me, I pray you, where the lord of the villa may be found.' Basil summoned one of his followers.
'Conduct the lord Venantius to Marcian's chamber.' It was done.