I warn you now Caesius blurted out. I have been targeted by many frauds who made me great promises, then did nothing.'

I said quietly.. Caesius, here's the deal. I am an informer, mainly in Rome. I have taken assignments overseas, but only for the Emperor.' Mentioning Vespasian might impress him, unless he had supported Vespasian's opponents in the imperial contest – or if he was a strong republican.

He had no time for politics.. I can't pay you, Falco.'

I have not asked for money.' Well, not yet.. I know you have an intriguing story.'

How does my story profit you? Do you have a commission?'

This was hard work. If there was trouble in a foreign province, Vespasian might agree to send me, though he would not welcome the expense. This girl's death was a private matter – unless Caesius was some old crony of the Emperor's who could call in favours; he would

have done it by now if he could, and not exhausted himself for three fruitless years on a solo effort.. I offer nothing, I promise nothing. Caesius, a colleague asked me to check facts. Your story may help other people -. Caesius stared at me. So – if you want to tell me what happened to your daughter, on that basis, then please do.

He made a slight hand gesture. appeasement.. I have been hounded by monsters making false offers of help. Now I trust no one.'

You have to decide if I'm different – but no doubt the confidence tricksters said that too.'

Thank you for your honesty.'

Despite his claim to trust no one, Caesius was still open to hope. With a wrench, he let us win him round. He took a breath. Clearly he had told the story many times before". My poor wife died twenty years ago. My daughter Caesia was the only one of our children to survive infancy. My background is in textile importation; we lived comfortably, Caesia was educated and – in my opinion, which of course is biased – she grew up sweet, talented, and worthy.'