He lay sunk in the most sombre thoughts, until at the door appeared Sagaris, who with the wonted suave servility, begged permission to speak to him.
'Speak on,' said Basil gloomily, fixing his eyes upon the oriental visage, so little reassuring to one harassed by suspicions.
'It is regarding my dear lord, Illustrious, that I would say a humble word, if your nobility will bear with me.' 'What can that be ?' 'I am guilty, I know, of much presumption, but I entreat your nobility's patience, for in truth it is only my love and my fears that embolden me to speak.

What I would make known to you, Illustrious, is that for more than two whole days my dear lord has not broken bread.
Since our return to Rome he has fasted all but continuously, at the same time inflicting upon himself many other penances of the severest kind.

For this, I well know, he will have his reward in the eternal life; but when I note his aspect, I am overcome with fear lest we should lose him too soon.

This morning, when I was helping him to dress, he sank down, and lay for a time as one dead.

My lord would rebuke me severely if he knew that I had ventured to speak of these things; but with you, Illustrious, I feel that I am in no danger.