The Emperor — Volume 08 by Georg Ebers
page 54 of 66 (81%)
page 54 of 66 (81%)
![]() | ![]() |
|
"Yes my lord," said Antinous trembling with alarm. "I will have her
taken by the lictors," asserted the infuriated sovereign. "No," said the lad positively. "No, you positively must not do that." "No--? we shall see!" "No, positively not, for at the same time you must know that Keraunus' daughter Selene--" "Well?" "She flung herself into the water in despair; yes, into the water, at night--into the sea." "Oh!" said Hadrian more gently, "that certainly alters the case. The lictors would find it difficult to apprehend a shade and the girl has suffered the worst punishment of all.--But you? what shall I say to your perfidy? You knew the value of the gem. You knew how highly I valued it, and could part with it to such hands?" "It contained the salve," stammered the boy. "How could I think--?" The Emperor interrupted the boy, striking his forehead with his hand as he spoke: "Aye, think--we have known unfortunately too long that thinking is not your strong point. This little bottle has cost me a pretty sum; still, as it once belonged to you I give it back to you again; I only require you to take better care of it this time. I shall ask for it again before |
|