It is I!" "Venus be praised!" and the proconsul, with almost undignified haste, was running out upon the stairs to meet his friend.

"Has the city broken out?
Has Antonius been murdered?
Is the truce at an end?
Are you alone ?" And Curio, who did not quite possess his leader's ability to "do all things at the same time," answered in a breath: "The city so far keeps tolerable order.

Antonius is safe.

The consuls and Senate still keep the peace; but so poorly that I thought it my duty to come to you and say things that cannot go in a letter." "And who is this young man with you ?" "My friend," said Curio, turning to his companion, "is Quintus Livius Drusus, of whom I have had occasion to write no little." The proconsul sprang forward and seized Drusus by both hands, and looked him fairly in the eye.
"_Papae!_ I see Sextus Drusus once more, the best tribune in his legion, and my dear friend.

Your face should be cause for your welcome, if nothing else.