I will speak with him alone .-- You, my friends, withdraw with our idiologos, the priest of Alexander, who is well known here, and visit the city.

I shall not require you at present." The whole troop hastened to obey.

Caracalla now turned to Melissa once more, and his eye brightened as he again discerned the dimple in her cheeks, which had recovered their roses.

Her imploring eyes met his, and the happy expectation of seeing her brother lent them a light which brought joy to the friendless sovereign.

During his last speech he had looked at her from time to time; but in the presence of so many strangers she had avoided meeting his gaze.