So much time being thus gained, it seemed good to the friends of the maiden that the son of Numitorius and the brother of Icilius, young men both of them and active, should hasten with all speed to the camp, and bring Virginius thence as quickly as might be.  So the two set out, and putting their horses to their full speed, carried tidings of the matter to the father.  As for Appius, he sat awhile on the judgment-seat, waiting for other business to be brought before him, for he would not have it seem that he had come for this cause only; but finding that there was none, and indeed the people were wholly intent on the matter of Virginia, he departed to his own house.  Thence he sent an epistle to his colleagues that were at the camp, saying, “Grant no leave of absence to Virginius, but keep him in safe custody with you.”  But this availed nothing, for already, before ever the epistle was brought to the camp, at the very first watch of the night, Virginius had set forth.

When Virginius was come to the city, it being then early dawn, he put on mean apparel, as was the custom with such as were in danger of life or liberty, and carried about his daughter, who was clad in like manner, praying all that he met to help and succor him.  “Remember,” said he, “that day by day I stand fighting for you and for your children against your enemies.  But what shall this profit you or me if this city being safe, nevertheless our children stand in peril of slavery and shame?” Icilius spake in like manner, and the women (for a company of matrons followed Virginia) wept silently, stirring greatly the hearts of all that looked upon them.  But Appius, so set was his heart on evil, heeded none of these things; but so soon as he had sat him down on the seat of judgment, and he that claimed the girl had said a few words complaining that right had not been done to him, he gave his sentence, suffering not Virginius to speak.  What pretense of reason he gave can scarce be imagined, but the sentence (for this only is certain) was that the girl should be in the custody of Claudius till the matter should be decided by law.  But when Claudius came to take the maiden, her friends and all the women that bare her company thrust him back.  Then said Appius, “I have sure proof, and this not from the violence only of Icilius, but from what is told to me of gatherings by night in the city, that there is a purpose in certain men to stir up sedition.  Knowing this I have come hither with armed men; not to trouble quiet citizens, but to punish such as would break the peace of the state.  Such as be wise, therefore, will keep themselves quiet.  Lictor, remove this crowd, and make room for the master that he may take his slave.”  These words he thundered forth in great anger; and the people, when they heard them, fell back in fear, so that the maiden stood without defense.  Then Virginius, seeing that there were none to help him, said to Appius, “I pray thee, Appius, if I have