CHAPTER XXVII.
THE KING OF THE GOTHS Transported from grief to joy, Basil sprang forward and clasped Felix in his arms.
'God be thanked,' he exclaimed, 'that I see you alive and well! Whence come you?
What is your news ?' With his wonted grave simplicity, Felix told that he had long since recovered from the effects of the wound, but had remained at Aesernia, unable to obtain permission to go in search of his master.

The Gothic army was now advancing along the Via Latina; Basil's followers were united with the troop under Venantius; and on their arrival at Casinum, Felix succeeded in getting leave to climb to the monastery.

He had been assured that his lord had recovered health, and was still sojourning with the holy men; but by whom this news had been brought he could not say.

Doubtless Venantius had held communication with the monastery.
'And you are here alone ?' asked Basil, fearing still to utter the question which was foremost in his mind.
'Alone of my lord's men.

I followed those that came with the king.' 'The king?
Totila is here ?' 'It was rumoured,' replied Felix, in a reverent voice, 'that he desired to speak of deep matters with the holy Benedict.