Julius glanced at him. “If every legion in Greece goes over to him, we could be overwhelmed, but we pardoned the men of Corfinium, did we not? The word will spread, even to Greece. Pompey’s own men will take that piece of gossip to the legions there. Our people will wonder if they are on the right side in this. I expect many to come to me before the end.” He paused to look around at the men who had come so far with him.

“There can only be one ending between us after we meet in the field. Pompey will never be second to me. I will let it be known that any man who surrenders to my forces will be pardoned and honored for his loyalty. I will be the symbol of the old Rome against the new, and I will have my private letters copied and distributed, begging Pompey to choose exile over the death of Roman citizens.” He grinned suddenly. “It will drive him mad.”

“Who will rule Rome while you are away?” Mark Antony asked.

Brutus glanced up and his hand gripped the wooden rest tightly. Julius did not look his way.

“You have proved yourself, Mark Antony. I can think of none better to administer Italy while I fight the war in Greece. Stand for the second consul’s seat with me. I can trust you to remain loyal for my return.”

Mark Antony stood on shaking legs and embraced his general.

“The gates will be open to you,” he said.

Brutus too rose, his face pale with strong emotion. For a moment, it seemed as if he would speak, and Julius turned to him, questioningly. Brutus shook his head and his mouth tightened.

“I must check the men,” he said at last, his voice choked. He walked into the sun and was gone.

Mark Antony looked troubled, decency forcing him to voice his thoughts. “Did you consider Brutus, sir? He deserves it as much, if not more.”

Julius smiled wryly. “You will keep Rome in order, Mark Antony. You will respect the law and take satisfaction from the thousand problems each day will bring. However, do not be offended when I say you are not the general I need to beat Pompey in the field. You have different strengths and I’ll need Brutus in the battles to come. He has a talent for death.”

Mark Antony flushed, unsure if he was receiving a compliment. “I think you should tell him that, sir.”

“I will, of course,” Julius replied. “Now, to business, gentlemen. I want the city to sing tonight. By all the gods, we are home at last.”