Cleopatra was extremely unwilling that the change in her relations to him and to the government, which this period was to bring, should take place.

Accordingly, just before the time arrived, she caused him to be poisoned.

His death released her, as she had intended, from all restraints, and thereafter she continued to reign alone.

During the remainder of her life, so far as the enjoyment of wealth and power, and of all other elements of external prosperity could go, Cleopatra's career was one of uninterrupted success.

She had no conscientious scruples to interfere with the most full and unrestrained indulgence of every propensity of her heart, and the means of indulgence were before her in the most unlimited profusion.