and the sea.
The harbour was now swarming with vessels of every size, garlanded with
flowers and adorned with gay flags and streamers. The report of the
successful issue of the first naval battle was believed, and many desired
to greet the victorious fleet and hail their sovereign as she entered the
harbour.

Many people, equipages, and litters had also gathered on the shore,
between the lofty pylons and the huge door of the Sebasteum. They were
representatives of the aristocracy of the city; for the majority were
attended by richly attired slaves. Many wore costly garlands, and
numerous chariots and litters were adorned with gold or silver ornaments,
gems, and glittering paste. The stir and movement in front of the palace
were ceaseless, and Iras, who was now standing beside her uncle, waved
her hand towards it, saying: "The wind of rumour! Yesterday only one or
two came; to-day every one who belongs to the 'Inimitable Livers' flocks
hither in person to get news. The victory was proclaimed in the
market-place, at the theatre, the gymnasium, and the camp. Every one who
wears garlands or weapons heard of a battle won. Yesterday, among all the
thousands, there was scarcely a single doubter; but to-day-how does it
happen? Even among those who as 'Inimitables' have shared all the
pleasures, entertainments, and festivities of our noble pair, faith
wavers; for if they were firmly convinced of the brilliant victory which
was announced loudly enough, they would not come themselves to watch, to
spy, to listen. Just look down! There is the litter of Diogenes--yonder
that of Ammonius. The chariot beyond belongs to Melampous. The slaves in
the red bombyx garments serve Hermias. They all belong to the society
of--'Inimitables,' and shared our banquets. That very Apollonius who, for
the last half hour, has been trying to question the palace servants, day
before yesterday ordered fifty oxen to be slaughtered to Ares, Nike, and
the great Isis, as the Queen's goddess, and when I met him in the temple
he exclaimed that this was the greatest piece of extravagance he had ever
committed; for even without the cattle Cleopatra and Antony would be sure
of victory. But now the wind of rumour has swept away his beautiful
confidence also. They are not permitted to see me. The doorkeepers say
that I am in the country. The necessity of showing every one a face
radiant with the joy of victory would kill me. There comes Apollonius.
How his fat face