Whatever his temptations, he quickly overcame them.

If ever he thought of marriage, policy and ambition turned his mind towards the royal Franks; but the time for that had not yet come.

Meanwhile, having spoken with the young Roman whom Veranilda loved, he saw in Basil a useful instrument, and resolved, if his loyalty to the Goths bore every test, to reward him with Veranilda's hand.

The marriage would be of good example, and might, if the Gothic arms remained triumphant, lead to other such.
After the meeting at Hadrian's villa which he granted to the lovers, Totila summoned Basil to his presence.

Regarding him with a good-natured smile, he said pleasantly: 'Your face has a less doleful cast than when I first saw it.' 'That,' answered Basil, 'is due in no small degree to the gracious favour of my king.' 'Continue to merit my esteem, lord Basil, and proof of my good-will shall not be wanting.