The plot could be thwarted.
Pratinas and Ahenobarbus were not yet beyond the reach of retribution.
He--Agias--was no longer to be a mere foot-boy and lackey; he was to match his keen Greek wits in subtle intrigue against foemen worthy of his steel.

He would save Drusus's life, would save Cornelia's happiness.

If he succeeded, who knew but that his owner would reward him--would give him freedom.

And with a natural rebound of spirits, Agias's eyes glittered with expectation and excitement, his cheeks flushed, his form expanded to a manly height.
"_Euge!_ Well done, old friend!" he cried, with the merriment of intense excitement.

"No matter if you say you were only able to hear a small part of what our dear fellow-Hellene, Pratinas, told Valeria.