Narcissus had arched his eyebrows as Cato spoke and now responded in a cold tone. ‘You do not make demands of me, young man. Be clear about that. Were it not for your fine record I would punish you for speaking so bluntly. Now listen. I will confirm your promotion before the year is out, whether you are in Rome or stationed elsewhere in the Empire. I give you my word on that. And here is the reason.’ Narcissus paused and looked round, as if to make sure they were not being overheard. Cato saw through the pretence at once. The security at the villa was so tight that no spy could possibly penetrate the ring of steel the Praetorian Guard formed round the Emperor’s residence.

Even so, Narcissus lowered his voice.

‘I have need of you and Macro. Urgent need. You recall the dealings we have had with that nest of traitors who call themselves the Liberators?’

Cato remembered them well. A shadowy conspiracy of aristocrats and their followers who wanted to do away with the line of emperors and return Rome to the days of the Republic when the senate exercised supreme power. He nodded to Narcissus.

‘I remember.’

‘Then know that they are active again. My spies have heard rumours of a fresh plot against the Emperor.’

‘The Liberators intend to assassinate him?’

‘I don’t know the details, only that something is afoot. There are few men I dare trust with the knowledge. That is why I am meeting you out here, alone. I need men I can trust to investigate this further. To penetrate the heart of the conspiracy.’

Cato thought it through and smiled bitterly. ‘So that’s it. Either we do this for you, or you will deny me my promotion.’

‘Yes.’

‘And what does Macro gain from this?’

‘His pick of the legions when you both return to active service. That, or perhaps the command of an auxiliary cohort.’

‘And what guarantee do we have that you will keep to your side of the deal if we take on this task?’

‘You have my word.’

Cato nearly laughed out loud but restrained himself in time. There was nothing to be gained from insulting the imperial secretary. Equally, there was much to be lost if he failed to accept the task being offered to him. He looked Narcissus in the eye.

‘I cannot give you my answer now. I must speak with Macro first.’

‘Where is he?’

‘Down in the port.’

‘Very well. Then go now. I’ll expect to see you back here before the end of the day. Any later and I will assume that you refuse the task, and I will be obliged to find a more loyal man to carry it out. A man more worthy of promotion, if you understand my meaning.’

‘Perfectly.’ Cato stood up abruptly. ‘I’ll take my leave of you.’