`` It grieves me , '' said Pertinax , `` but we are stationed here to stop that thing . '' ' `` If I carry back such an answer they will kill me , '' said Allo . `` I always promised the Winged Hats that you would rise when Maximus fell . I -- I did not think he could fall . '' ' `` Alas ! my poor barbarian , '' said Pertinax , still laughing . `` Well , you have sold us too many good ponies to be thrown back to your friends . We will make you a prisoner , although you are an ambassador . '' ' `` Yes , that will be best , '' said Allo , holding out a halter . We bound him lightly , for he was an old man . ' `` Presently the Winged Hats may come to look for you , and that will give us more time . See how the habit of playing for time sticks to a man ! '' said Pertinax , as he tied the rope . ' `` No , '' I said . `` Time may help . If Maximus wrote us a letter while he was a prisoner , Theodosius must have sent the ship that brought it . If he can send ships , he can send men . '' ' `` How will that profit us ? '' said Pertinax . `` We serve Maximus , not Theodosius .
Even if by some miracle of the Gods Theodosius down South sent and saved the Wall , we could not expect more than the death XXXXX died . '' '
Allo Hats Maximus Pertinax Theodosius Time barbarian fall halter thing