An erect figure of a man rather above medium height, in a coarse, gray
toga, stood by one of the white columns. Three Moorish children were
playing about his knees, and a senator was talking with him.

"My public services are familiar to you," said the senator, as the
young knights waited some twenty paces off. "A gift of two hundred
thousand denarii would be fitting, and, if you will permit me to say
so, it would delight the populace. Indeed, 'tis generally believed you
have already given me a large sum."

"But see that you do not believe it," blandly spake the strange
emperor, for albeit Rome was then a republic in name it was an empire
in fact, and Augustus, wielding the power of an emperor, refused the
title. Turning, he began to play with the children.

"Great and beloved father! I hope, at least, you will consider my
prayer."

"Good senator, I have considered. You ask for two hundred thousand
denarii. I can give you only the opportunity of earning them. As to
myself, I am poor. Look at me. Even my time belongs to the people.
and it is passing, my dear senator--it is passing."

The importunate man saw the subtle meaning in these words and went his
way.

The emperor sat down, a child upon each knee, as the young men
approached him. His head was bare and his fair, curly locks, growing
low upon his forehead, were now touched with gray. He looked up at the
two, his eyes blue, brilliant, piercing.

"My beloved Appius," said he, in a gentle tone, as he rose. "And
this--let me think--ah, it is Vergilius, the son of Varro."

"It is wonderful you should remember me," said Vergilius.

"Wonderful? No. I could tell your age, your misdeeds, your virtues,
and how often you failed to answer the roll-calls in Cappadocia. Well,
I dare say they were pretty girls. But I forget; I am to-day seeking
alms, my good children, for the poor of Rome. I am as ten thousand of
the hungry standing before you here and asking for bread. In their
name I shall receive, thankfully, what you may bestow."

Appius gave a handful of coins; Vergilius emptied his purse.

"'Tis not enough," said the latter. "Your words have touched me.
To-night I shall send five thousand denarii to your palace."

"Well given, noble youth! It is generous. I like it in you. Say that
I may have you to feast with me the first day before the ides--both of
you. Say that I may have you."

"We humbly wait your commands," said Vergilius, kissi