‘They will appoint a chief decurion from the serving ranks, of course, but had you thought of standing for the other vacancy? I gather the commander had a word with you.’ He bit the last remaining date neatly into two and swallowed it. ‘We could arrange for you to meet the property qualification, I think. Perhaps he told you that?’
I had my answer ready. ‘I’m flattered, Excellence. And naturally, if you wished it, I would be glad to serve — with your kind endorsement, I would be elected I am sure.’ (In fact, I was anything but sure of that. The choice of Gaius Greybeard had caused quite a stir, and not everyone was ready to believe that Marcus had not sanctioned it. ‘Everybody has his price,’ the common gossip said.) ‘But,’ I continued, mentally blessing the commander as I spoke, ‘I fear that, after all, it will not be possible. The town apartment which I think you have in mind has been measured most carefully and is a foot too small.’
Marcus was looking positively vexed. ‘I am sure some small adjustment could be made. .’
‘But if a property is bequeathed to you, and then you alter it before you pass it on, you will have acted as owner and be liable for tax.’ I had no idea if this was true or not. It was only based on something that I’d heard Pedronius say, but it seemed to work. I saw the look of mild alarm that crossed my patron’s face. Marcus was a rich man, but famously careful with his wealth.
I took advantage of the moment. ‘Have you thought of inviting Pedronius to stand? He would be a worthy candidate and very grateful for your support, I’m sure. Look at the splendid banquet that he arranged for you last night. .’
Marcus waved a lofty hand at me, but his expression cleared. ‘I expect you’re right. Perhaps an ordo member should have experience of managing finance. And of public life, as well. I’ll speak to Pedronius on the matter when I can — in fact, he is coming here to feast with me tonight. And perhaps you will bring Gwellia to see us very soon. I know my wife would like to speak to her — in fact, I think she’s brought her home a gift.’ He looked round vaguely at the table-top. ‘I was going to suggest that you took her home some dates, but I fear we’ve finished them.’ He smiled. ‘I’m glad you liked the bell.’
‘And the town apartment, Excellence?’ I put in wickedly, noting that our invitation had not been to dine. ‘What will you do with that?’
‘Oh I shall sell it, since you won’t be needing it. I’ll use the money to buy some vineyards, I expect — something to occupy my son when he’s a man. But, in the circumstances, you should have some reward. Can you think of anything?’
He knew as well as I did how I would reply. The answer was waiting just outside the door. ‘Well, Excellence,’ I murmured, ‘since I have a choice. . what about a pair of non-matching red-haired slaves?’
And I knew, from everybody’s smiles, that I had chosen right.