simpleton as that. Sit down and listen. I have proof that you plotted
with the governor of Antioch to have an unknown criminal executed in
place of a certain Norbanus, who escaped with your connivance and has
since become a follower of the highwayman Maternus. That involves you
rather seriously, doesn't it! You see, I made sure of my facts before
approaching you. And now--admit that I approached you tactfully! Come,
Pertinax, I made no threats until you let me see I was in danger. I
admire you. I regard you as a brave and an honorable Roman. I propose
that you and I shall understand each other. You must take me into
confidence, or I must take steps to protect myself."

There was a long pause while a group of men and women came and chattered
near by, laughing while one of the men tried to win a wager by climbing
a marble pillar. Pertinax frowned. Livius did his best to look
dependable and friendly, but his eyes were not those of a boon
companion.

"You are incapable of loyalty to any one except yourself," said Pertinax
at last. "What pledge do you propose to offer me?"

"A white bull to Jupiter Capitolinus! I am willing to go with you to
the temple of Jupiter Capitolinus, and to swear on the altar whatever
solemn oath you wish."

Pertinax smiled cynically.

"The men who slew Julius Caesar were under oath to him," he remarked.
"Most solemn oaths they swore, then turned on one another like a pack of
wolves! Octavian and Anthony were under oath; and how long did that
last? My first claim to renown was based on having rewon the allegiance