Murder in the Forum (31 page)

‘And for my last boon,’ Pertinax declared, ‘I have a proposition to make to you. This Felix business has decided me. When I report this to the Emperor, as I am bound to do, I intend to ask him to release me from this posting – perhaps to send me to Africa as he was suggesting. Britannia is no longer safe for me – there are too many plots and counter-plots. I have already sent my wife and children into exile.’

‘Mightiness?’ I was disappointed. I was beginning to like this governor.

‘However,’ Pertinax went on, ‘before I leave, I propose to make a tour of all the cities of the province.’ He beamed at me. ‘And Marcus tells me that you have a burning desire to visit Eboracum. Well, your wish is granted. When I go you may travel with me, in my entourage.’

He was looking at me intently. I glanced around the room. Marcus was sipping at his goblet and pretending not to listen. Gaius and Octavius were discussing dowries for Phyllidia, who in turn was talking wedding plans with Julia Delicta.

I thought of my own wife, and a lurching cart, and a worn, lovely face in the rain. This was so kindly meant. There was a prickling behind my eyes, and I raised my hand to brush them. A passing slave, misinterpreting my gesture, ladled fish pickle onto my oatcakes.

I turned to Pertinax, blinking back the tears. ‘Thank you, Mightiness,’ I said. ‘That would be wonderful.’

After all, the man had saved my life. And it is never wise to argue with a powerful Roman.