The gods have created us for each other, child; I am already under your influence, but your heart still hesitates, and I know why; it is because you distrust me." Melissa raised her large eyes to his face in astonishment, and he went on, pensively: "The past must stand; it is like a scar which no water will wash out.

What have you not heard of my past?
What did they feel, in their self-conscious virtue, when they talked of my crimes?
Did it ever occur to any one, I wonder, that with the purple I assumed the sword, to protect my empire and throne?
And when I have used the blade, how eagerly have fingers pointed at me, how gladly slanderous tongues have wagged! Who has ever thought of asking what compulsion led me to shed blood, or how much it cost me to do it?
You, fair child--and the stars confirm it--you were sent by fate to share the burden that oppresses me, and to you I will ease my heart, to you I will confide all, unasked, because my heart prompts me to do so.

But first you must tell me with what tales they taught you to hate the man to whom, as you yourself confessed, you nevertheless felt drawn." At this Melissa raised her hands in entreaty and remonstrance, and Caesar went on: "I will spare you the pains.

They say that I am ever athirst for fresh bloodshed if only some one is rash enough to suggest it to me.

You were told that Caesar murdered his brother Geta, with many more who did but speak his victim's name.