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The Rhine frontier of the empire has been placed in security.

By the Emperor, by the Emperor.

In the Danubian provinces, on the contrary, affairs are going ill; and still worse in Asia—King Sapor makes constant progress.

What audacity! Rumour has it that not even in this summer's campaign has the Emperor been pleased to let his generals crush him.

The Emperor intends to do so himself in the spring. [Producing a roll of papers.] Here he makes known his will, noble Caesar.

Let us see, let us see! [Reading.] Ah!

[''He reads again for a long time, with signs of deep inward emotion; then he looks up and says'':

Then, 'tis the Emperor's will that? Good, good, noble Decentius; the Emperor's will shall be done.

It must be done, this very day.

This very day; of course. Come hither, Sintula!