`` Rome 's arm is long . Where are the Captains of the Wall ? '' ` We said we were those men . ' `` But you are old and grey-haired , '' he cried . `` Maximus said that they were boys . '' ' `` Yes , that was true some years ago , '' said Pertinax . `` What is our fate to be , you fine and well-fed child ? '' ' `` I am called Ambrosius , a secretary of the Emperor , '' he answered . `` Show me a certain letter which Maximus wrote from a tent at Aquileia , and perhaps I will believe . '' ' I took it from my breast , and when he had read it he saluted us , saying : `` Your fate is in your own hands . If you choose to serve Theodosius , he will give you a Legion . If it suits you to go to your homes , we will give you a Triumph . '' ' `` I would like better a bath , wine , food , razors , soaps , oils , and scents , '' said Pertinax , laughing . ' `` Oh , I see you are a boy , '' said Ambrosius . `` And you ? '' turning to me . ' `` We bear no ill-will against Theodosius , but in War -- '' I began . ' `` In War it is as it is in Love , '' said Pertinax . `` Whether she be good or bad , one gives one 's best once , to one only . That given , there remains no second worth giving or taking . '' '
`` That is true , '' said XXXXX .
Ambrosius Aquileia Emperor Maximus Pertinax Rome Theodosius razors scents second