But I am in grievous doubt." "Perhaps, Magnus," said Favonius, with half a sneer, "you think your forces inadequate.

The two legions at Luceria are just detached from Caesar.

Perhaps you question their fidelity." "Man," retorted the general, fiercely, bringing his foot down upon the soft rug on the floor, "I have but to stamp upon the ground to call up legions out of Italy; it is not that which I fear!" The members of the conference looked uneasy; there was still a bare chance that Pompeius would go back to his old friendship with Caesar.
"Gentlemen," went on the Magnus, "I have called you here to reach a final decision--peace or war.

Let us consult a higher power than human." And he touched a little silver bell that was upon the table close at hand.
Forthwith there was a rustle of curtains, and out of the gloom of the doorway--for the hour was now very late--advanced a tall, gaunt figure, dressed in a plain, sleeveless robe that fell to the feet.

The skin was dry, hard, wrinkled by a hundred furrows; the bones of the face were thrust out prominently; on the head was a plain white turban, and a beard quite as white fell down upon the breast.