A revolting smile of mingled cunning and satisfaction instantly changed the whole character of his countenance as he gazed on her and then looked round significantly to the vault.

'Here is one,' he whispered to Numerian, taking her by the arm.

'Keep her captive--the hour is near!' Numerian had hitherto stood unheedful while he spoke; but when he touched Antonina the bare action was enough to arouse the father to resistance--hopeless though it was--once more.

He shook off the grasp of Ulpius from the girl's arm, and drew back with her--breathless, vigilant, desperate--to the side-wall behind him.
The madman laughed in proud approval.

'My bondman obeys me and seizes the captive!' he cried.