"I doubt not they will add health and
wisdom. But there is a blessing I put above either."
They started slowly, Antipater riding between Arria and her brother in
advance of the troop.
"And shall we ask the gods to grant it?" said Arria.
"Yes, for it is your favor, sweet girl. I adore you, and shall have no
other queen."
"I cannot give you my heart," said she, frankly. "It is impossible--I
cannot bear to speak of it."
"And you would not share my power and glory with me?" said Antipater,
turning, with a look of surprise.
Appius answered:
"Once before I have told you, my worthy prince, that whom the emperor
chooses she will wed."
"Think not of that--I shall make terms with him," said Antipater. "She
shall never wed a weak-hearted tribune."
"You speak lightly of my friend," said Appius. "I like it not, good
sire."
"Son of Herod," said Arria, drawing rein, "we cannot longer enjoy your
company."
Appius halted the troop.
For a little Antipater was dumb with astonishment. He drew aside, and
when he spoke his voice trembled with ire, it was near bursting into
fury.
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