The cohort soon settles into life in the frontier camp. All camps are much alike, although in this one a homesick former commander planted a rose bush in a wine jar. Marcus plans to replant the bush when he has the time. Between days of drills, parades and patrols, Marcus finds time to hunt with a Briton guide named Cradoc. Marcus needs the relaxation, since there are rumors of a Druid priest in the villages and a third bad harvest is certain. Cradoc's wife is a tall, dignified but distant beauty with a baby on her hip.
Marcus finds Cradoc tending to his chariot team. The two men make a wager that Marcus cannot drive the spirited quartet. They will settle the matter in a few weeks, when Cradoc returns.....
