Julian.
<g>Now</g>, nothing. [To Decentius.] The army has demanded that I should enter the city in triumph. They would have had me pass through the gates of Lutetia at the head of the legions. Captive barbarian princes, with pinioned hands, were to march beside my chariot-wheels; women and slaves from twenty conquered peoples were to follow, crowded closely together, head against head [Breaking off suddenly.] Rejoice, my valiant fellow soldiers; here you see the Tribune Decentius, the Emperor's trusted friend and councillor. He has arrived this morning with gifts and greetings from Rome.
Florentius.
Ah, then indeed naught can be lacking to complete Caesar's happiness.
Severus.
[Softly to Florentius.] Incomprehensible! Then he is in the Emperor's grace again!
Florentius.
[Softly.] Oh, this unstable Emperor!
Julian.
You seem all to be struck dumb with astonishment.—They think the Emperor has done too much, good Decentius
Florentius.
How can Caesar think such a thought?
