If so, pay heed to it.' Basil was turning away.
'What! Not even the formal courtesy?
Your manners have indeed declined, my poor Basil.' With an abrupt, awkward movement, he took her half offered hand, and touched the rings with his lips; then hastened away.
On the edge of the cluster of idlers who were listening to the flute player stood his needy kinsman.

Basil spoke with him for a moment, postponed their business, and, with a sign to the two slaves in attendance, walked on.

By the Clivus Argentarius he descended to the Forum.

In front of the Curia stood the state' carriage of the City Prefect, for the Senate had been called together this morning to hear read some decree newly arrived from Byzantium; and as Basil drew near he saw the Prefect, with senators about him, come forth and descend the steps.

These dignitaries, who wore with but ill grace the ancient toga, were evidently little pleased by what they had heard; they talked under their breath together, many of them, no doubt, recalling sadly the honour they were wont to receive from King Theodoric.