She did not need to be told that in all probability--though she had no proof--the writer was Gabinius.

She was extremely reluctant to tell any one of her escape from his clutches in the villa by the Appian Way.

However, some confidant seemed necessary.

She knew that Fonteia, the senior Vestal, the Maxima, would never treat her other than as a sister, and to her she read the letter and imparted her story and fears.

Fonteia did not regard the matter in a very serious light.