Cassandra had recovered from her whipping, and was bustling about her tasks as if nothing had happened.

Agias seemed to have a never failing fund of good spirits.

He was always ready to tell the funniest stories or retail the latest news.

Once or twice he brought his mistress unspeakable delight, by smuggling into the house letters from Drusus, which contained words of love and hope, if no really substantial promises for the future.

But this was poor enough comfort.