“Only a miracle could save him. The priests have been praying for him.”
For the first time Constantine noticed that one of the men standing beside the couch wore an embroidered dalmatic over his robe and a highcrowned headgear, such as he’d seen worn by Christian leaders in Antioch. Eumenius noticed the direction of his gaze and said, “This is Eborius, Bishop of Eboracum. Your father asked for him.”
“A Christian!” The word was louder than Constantine had intended and he saw Eborius turn his head.
“Surely you knew your father has been sympathetic to Christians,” Eumenius said.
“Of course. Have the proper sacrifices also been made to Jupiter Capitolinus?”
“Yes. And to Mithras.”
“Flavius!” It was his father’s voice.
“Yes, Father.” Constantine moved to the couch and took the almost colorless hand lying upon the cushion.
“Thank God, you got here. I was afraid ”
“You’re going to be all right, Father, Eumenius says ”
“You’re both too honest to make good liars.” Constantius managed to smile. “I’m dying. I knew it would come after the first attack; that’s why I sent to Nicomedia for you. Is it well in the north?” “The frontier is secure, Father. I’m sure Bonar will keep his word.”
“Then I can die in peace, knowing I am passing it all to you with everything in order. One thing more ”
“Yes, Father.”
Ascaricus and Begaisus in Gaul
“Keep a close watch on Ascaricus and Begaisus in Gaul. I don’t entirely trust them.”
“I will,” Constantine promised. “Now you should get some rest.”
“There is much to tell you, and too little time. Take care of Theodora and the children.”
“I will guard them as I would Crispus.”
“I wish I could have seen the lad.”
“He looks like you, Father.”
“Assure your mother of my devotion when you see her again. And don’t trust Maximian or Maxentius; they will try to cheat you out of your birthright. Beware of Galerius too; he would rule the Empire alone. But you know that already.”
“Yes, Father.”
“You have wise counselors in Eumenius, Crocus and Dacius, and in my good friend Eborius here. Be kind to his people. They can be depended on and will harm no one.”
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