Cornelia continued steadily, looking straight before her.
"Uncle, is it your wish that I become the wife of Lucius Ahenobarbus ?" "You know it is," replied Lentulus, a little uneasily.

He could not see where this bit of affection on the part of his niece would end.

He had never heard her speak in such a tone before.
"I think, uncle," went on Cornelia, "that before we say anything further it will be well to read this letter.

It was sent to me, but both you and Lucius will find it of some interest." And she held out two or three wax tablets.
Lentulus took them, eager to have done with the by-play.

But when he saw on the binding-cords the seal--which, though broken, still showed its impression--he gave a start and exclamation.
"_Perpol!_ The seal of Sextus Flaccus, the great capitalist." "Certainly, why should it not be from him ?" Lentulus stepped nearer to the light, and read: Lucius standing by and hanging on every word, Cornelia remaining at her previous station rigid as the bronze faun on the pedestal at her elbow.