"Whither hast thou wandered with Cleopatra, Harmachis?" Charmion askedof me when I met her by chance on that day of return. "On some newmission of betrayal? Or was it but a love-journey?"
"I went with Cleopatra upon secret business of the State," I answeredsternly.
"So! Those who go secretly, go evilly; and foul birds love to fly atnight. Not but what thou art wise, for it would scarce beseem thee,Harmachis, to show thy face openly in Egypt."
I heard, and felt my passion rise within me, for I could ill bear thisfair girl's scorn.
"Hast thou never a word without a sting?" I asked. "Know, then, that Iwent whither thou hadst not dared to go, to gather means to hold Egyptfrom the grasp of Antony."
"So," she answered, looking up swiftly. "Thou foolish man! Thou hadstdone better to save thy labour, for Antony will grasp Egypt in thydespite. What power hast thou to-day in Egypt?"
"That he may do in my despite; but in despite of Cleopatra that hecannot do," I said.
"Nay, but with the _aid_ of Cleopatra he can and will do it," sheanswered with a bitter smile. "When the Queen sails in state up Cydnusstream she will surely draw this coarse Antony thence to Alexandria,conquering, and yet, like thee, a slave!"
"It is false! I say that it is false! Cleopatra goes not to Tarsus, andAntony comes not to Alexandria; or, if he come, it will be to take thechance of war."
"Now, thinkest thou thus?" she answered with a little laugh. "Well, ifit please thee, think as thou wilt. Within three days thou shalt know.It is pretty to see how easily thou art fooled. Farewell! Go, dream onLove, for surely Love is sweet."
And she went, leaving me angered and troubled at heart.
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