Perhaps he may be one, who, while waiting for some adequate excitement, for some worthy opportunity, squanders on trifles a genius before which may yet be humbled the sword of Pompey and the gown of Cicero.

Perhaps he may now be disputing with a sophist; perhaps prattling with a mistress; perhaps" and, as he spoke, he turned away, and resumed his lounge, "strolling in the Forum." ***** It was almost midnight.

The party had separated.

Catiline and Cethegus were still conferring in the supper-room, which was, as usual, the highest apartment of the house.

It formed a cupola, from which windows opened on the flat roof that surrounded it.