I should not speak thus confidently did I speak of myself alone; but there is one ever at my side, who with her wisdom--sometimes I think it divinely bestowed--supplies the weakness of my own understanding.

Guided by her, I cannot counsel you amiss.' They parted with an embrace, and Basil turned to the business of the moment.

This occupied him until nearly mid-day.

As he took leave of the last of his guests, there entered Marcian; his coming surprised Basil, for they had parted at early morning not to meet again before the morrow.
'I bring you an invitation,' said Marcian, in a careless tone, which was not quite natural.

'It is to the Palatine, after dinner.' 'To the Palatine?
I am summoned by Bessas ?' 'In a friendly way.