The process was somewhat long, and as I reached the door I heard her say to Stauracius, "Hearken, you dog.

If ever you dare to break in upon me thus again, you shall lose two things--your office and your head.

What! May I not give secret orders to my trusted officer and not be spied upon by you?
Now, cease your grovellings and lead in these Persians, as you have been bribed to do." Passing through the silk-clad, bejewelled Persians who waited in an antechamber with their slaves and gifts, I gained the great terrace of the palace which looked upon the sea.

Here I found Martina leaning on the parapet.
"Have you more of the Augusta's pearls about you, Olaf ?" she asked mockingly, speaking over her shoulder.
"Not I, Martina," I answered, halting beside her.
"Indeed.

I could have sworn otherwise, for they are perfumed, and I seemed to catch their odour.