The Course of Honour (44 page)

 

 

 

T
he political events in this story are true.

Vespasian ruled the Empire for ten years. He died of natural causes and was succeeded by each of his sons in turn. Although Domitian became a tyrant who was murdered by members of his own household, the Flavian dynasty had long before then re-established peace and prosperity, making possible the Golden Age of the Second Century when the Roman Empire's political and cultural achievements were to reach their height.

Caenis lived with the Emperor for the rest of her life.