But it was doubtful whether that pursuit would reach the fugitives; and even should it reach them, whether the local authorities would feel justified in making the arrest at the private instance of Vinicius, without the support of a pretor.

Indeed, there had not been time to obtain such support.

Vinicius himself, disguised as a slave, had sought Lygia the whole day before, through every corner of the city, but had been unable to find the least indication or trace of her.

He had seen Aulus's servants, it is true; but they seemed to be seeking something also, and that confirmed him in the belief that it was not Aulus who had intercepted the maiden, and that the old general did not know what had happened to her.
When Tiresias announced to him, then, that there was a man who would undertake to find Lygia, he hurried with all speed to the house of Petronius; and barely had he finished saluting his uncle, when he inquired for the man.
"We shall see him at once, Eunice knows him," said Petronius.

"She will come this moment to arrange the folds of my toga, and will give nearer information concerning him." "Oh! she whom thou hadst the wish to bestow on me yesterday ?" "The one whom thou didst reject; for which I am grateful, for she is the best vestiplica in the whole city." In fact, the vestiplica came in before he had finished speaking, and taking the toga, laid on a chair inlaid with pearl, she opened the garment to throw it on Petronius's shoulder.