I know not whether you will or will not do as you wish--set your empire over the far East, a rival, friendly, I hope, to our Rome; but this I know, that with your glory, and with your renown among men for all time, you will go down to your grave with an empty heart.

And I know not what may compensate for that." Cleomenes was clearly a little disturbed at this turn to the conversation; but Cleopatra bowed her head on her hands.

It was only for an instant.

When she looked up once more there were tears in her eyes, which she made no effort to conceal.

The look of high defiance had faded from her face.
"Think kindly of me, Lady Cornelia," she said; "I am but a wilful girl with many things to learn.