It was clear to him that something was wrong.

This secret meeting of the two Carthaginians with natives, one of whom was employed in Hannibal's household, could mean no good.

Money had passed, too, and, judging from the size and apparent weight of the bag, no inconsiderable amount.

What could it mean?
It was but a few months before that Hasdrubal had fallen beneath the dagger of a native servant.

Could this be a plot against the life of Hannibal?
The two Carthaginians were connected with Hanno, and might well be agents employed to rid him of his great rival.