The pulse of pleasure seemed to have throbbed its last in the joyless being of Vetranio's altered household.
Hastening his steps as he entered the mansion, Carrio passed into the chamber where the senator awaited him.
On two couches, separated by a small table, reclined the lord of the palace and his pupil and companion at Ravenna, the once sprightly Camilla.

Vetranio's open brow had contracted a clouded and severe expression, and he neither regarded nor addressed his visitor, who, on her part, remained as silent and as melancholy as himself.

Every trace of the former characteristics of the gay, elegant voluptuary and the lively, prattling girl seemed to have completely vanished.

On the table between them stood a large bottle containing Falernian wine, and a vase filled with a little watery soup, in the middle of which floated a small dough cake, sparingly sprinkled with common herbs.

As for the usual accompaniments of Vetranio's luxurious privacy, they were nowhere to be seen.