All right. So we'll jump them the next time anyone comes in?" I was thinking of that, but would not forewarn Gaius in case he messed it up. There's nothing we can do; try to save your energy." We lay in the gathering darkness, trying to work out from a vague, unsettling smell what had been kept in this store before us. Gaius Baebius groaned as our hopeless position finally struck him. Then conscience made my sister's ridiculous husband confess something. He had kept to himself one very important fact about this villa and the man who owned it.
I was told something curious about Damagoras. Is now the time to mention it?"
Gaius, the time for information was way back. Before we climbed over his gate, I'd say. What do you know about this man?"
I was told he is a retired pirate," said Gaius Baebius. He had the sense to make it a simple statement, then not to goad me any more.
Torches announced a new arrival. This was no swine of a pirate in theatrical robes, baring his teeth wildly in the flickering light. Instead, the door swung open to reveal a tall, big-bellied, elderly man, wearing a clean white Roman-style tunic, and accompanied by two neat house slaves. I would have thought him a retired banker. There was an air of money about him, and I don't just mean that he lived in a minor palace with bayside views. He was sure of himself- and very sure that he despised us. We were lying on the ground, Gaius lolling against me for comfort. Unable to shift him in time to jump the new people, I stayed put. Extremely depressed and subdued by this stage, Gaius followed my lead.
What are you?" asked the big man bluntly as he stared down at us. He had a thick accent which I could not place, but spoke Latin as if he was used to it. He could be a trader, a successful one.
My name is Didius Falco. I am a private informer." There was no point hiding why we were here. I am looking for someone." I noticed that Gaius did not try to mention his own occupation. As customs officers go, he was good at his job and even bright. Piracy and collecting tax don't mix. Well, not unless you think the Treasury is a bunch" of pirates.
And your colleague?" The man with the debatable pedigree missed nothing.
He is called Gaius Baebius." Gaius had gone rigid. My brother-in law." That was accepted, but I felt Gaius stay tense. We waited for reverse introductions, but none came. The man jerked his head for us to get up and follow him. I ignored it. He turned back and said rudely, Stay there and rot, if you prefer." I stood up, wincing at my aches. Whom are we addressing?"
