‘I know all that,’ Macro cut in. ‘But in this situation it doesn’t matter. First, you have failed to carry out your duty. I could have you charged with cowardice when we return to Bushir. Second, I am the senior officer present. Unless you have written authority that supersedes my seniority there’s nothing you can do about it. I don’t suppose you have such a document on you, Centurion Postumus? No? How unfortunate.’ Macro smiled. ‘I can only imagine how frustrated you must feel.’

Postumus glared at him, opened his mouth to protest, and then shut it again. Macro had him.The same rigorous adherence to rules that had cost Macro his appointment had now robbed Postumus of command over the two cavalry squadrons. It took all of Macro’s self-control not to laugh now that the tables had been turned on the smug younger officer. He let Postumus stew for a moment before he continued.

‘I will remain in command until we return to Bushir. Until then, you are to assume the duties of an orderly. Is that clear?’

‘You can’t do this,’ Postumus said quietly. The decurions of the two cavalry squadrons had called off the pursuit and were rallying to Macro and Postumus.

‘I already have. You can sort it out with the prefect when we return to Bushir.’

‘Trust me, I will.’

As the decurions trotted up Macro turned to them and announced the change of command. They turned questioningly to Postumus, but before the latter could speak Macro snapped at them, ‘Ignore him! I am the ranking officer here! You will obey my orders from now on. Centurion Postumus will be facing a charge of gross neglect of duty when we return to Bushir. If you don’t want to join him then I suggest you accept the change of command right away. Do either of you question my authority? Well?’

The decurions shook their heads.

‘That’s better! Now get your men to help the merchants restore some order to the caravan. Once that’s done, we’ll escort them to the Decapolis. If there’s another attack I don’t expect to see your men responding like a bunch of virgins at the Lupercal. I’d better see them go in hard and fast, or I’ll personally make sure that both of you are broken back to the ranks.’ Macro subjected them to a withering glare, and then concluded, ‘Do I make myself clear?’

‘Yes, sir!’ the decurions chorused.

‘Fine, then carry out your orders.’ Macro returned their salute and they wheeled their mounts round and trotted back to their units. Macro turned to Postumus and gestured after them. ‘What are you waiting for? I want you out there helping to clear up this mess as well.’

‘Me?’

‘Yes you. And you will call me sir from now on. Get moving before I add insubordination to the charges I aim to bring against you.’