Neither of them had ever stood on terms of more than courteous forbearance with this authoritative lady; at present they maintained their usual demeanour, and did not think it needful to apologise for friendly relations with Aurelia.

The only subject on which Petronilla deigned to hold colloquy with them was that of her brother's burial at Rome.
Should the transport be by land or by sea?
This evening the corpse would be conveyed to the cathedral of Surrentum, where due rites would be performed early on the morrow; there it would remain in temporary interment until a coffin of lead could be prepared, and arrangements completed for the removal.

Was the year too advanced, questioned Petronilla, to allow of the sea voyage?
On the other hand, would the land journey be safe, having regard to the advance of the Gothic army?
Basil pronounced for the sea, and undertook to seek for a vessel.

Was he willing, asked Petronilla, to accompany the body to Rome?
This question gave Basil pause; he reflected uneasily; he hesitated.

Yet who could discharge this duty, if he did not?
Suddenly ashamed of his hesitation, the true reason of which could not be avowed, he declared that he would make the voyage.
Hereupon entered the deacon, who, the matter being put before him, approved these arrangements.