But Cornelia scoffed at any suggestions that it might be safer to leave the city and join Artemisia in the retreat up the Nile.

She had taken no part whatsoever in Egyptian politics, and she was incapable of assisting to restore Cleopatra.

As for the possible influence of Pratinas in court, it seemed to her incredible that a man of his caliber could work her any injury, save by the dagger and poison cup.

That an ignoble intriguer of his type could influence the policy of state she refused to believe.
Thus it came to pass that Cornelia had only herself to thank, when the blow, such as it was, fell.

The eunuch prime minister knew how to cover his actions with a velvet glove.