"A cipher," he added, passing the sheet of vellum. "It will be known
to you and to me only. You will understand what I wish to know. You
shall have command of a cohort."
Vergilius thought for a second of that strange overhauling of Manius
the night before, and of the shrewdness of the great father in
returning him, kindly, to his task, with a pair of eyes to keep watch
of him.
"With all my heart I thank you," said the young knight. "But--my
beloved father--I was hoping to marry and--and know the path of peace."
"But I am sure you will wait two years--only two years," said the
other, rising with extended hands. "There is time enough; and
remember, whether to peace or war, your path is that of duty.
Farewell!"
It was a way he had of commanding, kindly but inexorable, and Vergilius
knew it. Again he spoke as the knight turned away.
"This young Antipater--do you know him?"
"Not well."
"But, possibly, well enough," said the emperor, with a knowing look.
Then, casually: "Oh, there is yet a little matter--that new king the
Jews are looking for--if he should come, I suppose he will report to
me, but--but let me know what you learn.
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