Besides, this inestimable kitten of the breed most worshipped by the ancient Egyptians has already taken cold, and I would not for the world expose the susceptible animal any longer than is necessary to the dampness of the night-air.

Drive on, good Carrio, drive on!' The old man scarcely waited for the conclusion of this speech before he ran up to the chariot, where he was immediately confronted by two heads--one that of Vetranio the senator, the other that of a glossy black kitten adorned with a collar of rubies, and half enveloped in its master's ample robes.

Before the astonished noble could articulate a word, the man whispered in hoarse, hurried accents, 'I am Ulpius--dismiss your servants--I have something important to say!' 'Ha! my worthy Ulpius! You have a most unhappy faculty of delivering a message with the manner of an assassin! But I must pardon your unpleasant abruptness in consideration of your diligence.

My excellent Carrio, If you value my approbation, remove your companions and yourself out of hearing!' The freedman yielded instant obedience to his master's mandate.

The following conversation then took place, the strange man opening it thus:-- 'You remember your promise ?' 'I do.' 'Upon your honour, as a nobleman and a senator, you are prepared to abide by it whenever it is necessary ?' 'I am.' 'Then at the dawn of morning meet me at the private gate of your palace garden, and I will conduct you to Antonina's bedchamber.' 'The time will suit me.