But he was impelled by the turmoil of his fears and hopes to excite passions larger than jealousy.

Throwing off all restraint, he spoke with hot eloquence of all that might be gained by one who could persuade the Greek commander to open the gates of Rome.

Totila was renowned for his generosity, and desired above all things to reconcile, rather than subdue, the Roman people; scarce any reward would seem to him too great for service such as helped this end.
'Bessas lies before you.

Ply your spells; make of him your creature; then whisper in his ear such promise of infinite gold as will make his liver melt.

For _him_ the baser guerdon; for _you_, O Heliodora, all the wishes of your noble heart, with power, power, power and glory unspeakable!' Heliodora pondered.