It was the man's business to obey; he let fall a few words, however, concerning the dangers of the track; it was well known that bands of marauders frequented this country, moving onward before the slow advance of the Gothic troops.

Marcian reflected, but none the less held to his scheme.

The beasts were urged along an upward way, which, just about the setting of the moon, brought them to a poor village with a little church.

Marcian set himself to discover the priest, and, when this good man was roused from slumber, spoke in his ear a word which had great effect.

With little delay stabling was found, and a place of repose for Marcian's followers; he himself would rest under the priest's roof, whither he conducted Veranilda and a woman servant who sat with her in the carriage.