"Why, any enemy, and Christ knows I have plenty, could have cut you down before ever you knew that he was there." "Not so, Augusta," I answered, for I could speak their Greek tongue well; "since at the end of the terrace the guards stand night and day, men of my own blood who can be trusted.

Nothing which does not fly could gain this place save through your own chambers, that are also guarded.
It is not usual for any watch to be set here, still I came myself in case the Empress might need me." "That is kind of you, my Captain Olaf, and I think I do need you.

At least, I cannot sleep in this heat, and I am weary of the thoughts of State, for many matters trouble me just now.

Come, change my mind, if you can, for if so I'll thank you.

Tell me of yourself when you were young.