Our court shares the fate of every other in the East, and those to whom Rome formerly set the example of holding law and justice sacred--" "Can now go there," interrupted Dion, "to learn how rudely both are trampled under foot.

The sovereigns here and there may smile at one another like the augurs.

They are like brothers--" "But with the difference," Archibius broke in, "that the head of our public affairs is the very embodiment of affability and grace; while in Rome, on the contrary, harsh severity and bloody arrogance, or even repulsive servility, guide the reins." Here Archibius interrupted himself to point to the shouting throng advancing towards them.

"You are right," Dion answered.

"Let us defer this discussion till we can pursue it in the house of the charming Barine.