Marcian saw in this trivial affair the opportunity for a scheme of the gravest import; difficult, perilous, perhaps impracticable, but so tempting in its possibilities that he soon resolved to hazard everything on the chance of success.

Basil's departure from Rome, which he had desired for other reasons, fell pat for the device now shaping itself in his mind.

A day or two after, early in the morning, he went to Heliodora's house, and sent in a message begging private speech with the lady.

As he had expected, he was received forthwith, Heliodora being aware of his friendship with Basil.

Between her and Marcian the acquaintance was but slight; he had hitherto regarded her as unserviceable, because too dangerous.