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“He is in prison with Mallius Lepus in Castrum Mare,” replied Metellus, “and if he survives the games, which he will not, Fupus will find some other means to destroy him.”

“When are the games held?” asked Tarzan.

“They start upon the ides of August,” replied Cassius Hasta.

“And it is now about the nones of August,” said Tarzan.

“Tomorrow,” corrected Praeclarus.

“We shall know it then,” said Cassius Hasta, “for that is the date set for the triumph of Sublatus.”

“I am told that the games last about a week,” said Tarzan. “How far is it to Castrum Mare?”

“Perhaps an eight hours’ march for fresh troops,” said Caecilius Metellus; “but why do you ask? Are you planning on making a trip to Castrum Mare?”

Tarzan noted the other’s smile and the ironic tone of his voice. “I am going to Castrum Mare,” he said.

“Perhaps you will take us with you,” laughed Metellus.

“Are you a friend of von Harben?” asked Tarzan.

“I am a friend of his friends and an enemy of his enemies, but I do not know him well enough to say that he is my friend.”

“But you have no love for Validus Augustus, the Emperor?” asked Tarzan.

“No,” replied the other.

“And I take it that Cassius Hasta has no reason to love his uncle, either?” continued Tarzan.

“You are right,” said Hasta,

“Perhaps I shall take you both, then,” said Tarzan.

The two men laughed.

“We shall be ready to go with you when you are ready to take us,” said Cassius Hasta.

“You may count me in on the party, too,” said Maximus Praeclarus, “if Cassius Hasta will remain my friend in Castrum Mare.”

“That I promise, Maximus Praeclarus,” said Cassius Hasta.

“When do we leave?” demanded Metellus, shaking his chain.