The End

Now the dark cloud was descending to the ground; now the thick ash was falling. Most Pompeians were already losing hope about their city. However, Clēmēns did not despair, but sought the villa because he was looking for Caecilius. At last, he arrived at the villa. Anxiously, he looked at the ruins. The entire villa was burning. Clēmēns saw smoke everywhere. Nevertheless, he pressed on through the ruins and called for Caecilius. However, Caecilius did not respond. Suddenly, a dog barked. The servant entered the study, where the dog was. Cerberus was guarding his master. Caecilius was dying. Metella lay motionless near him. A half-collapsed wall almost concealed them. Clēmēns gave his master wine. After Caecilius drank the wine, he gradually caught his breath.

"What happened, master?" asked Clēmēns.

"I came to the villa," replied Caecilius. "The villa was deserted. Then I was making my way to the study when I found my wife in the study. Only Metella was waiting for me. Suddenly the ground trembled, and the wall fell on us. You are a good and loyal servant. Go away! I command you. I despair of my life. Metella has perished. Now I too am about to die."

Clēmēns refused to leave. He remained in the study. Caecilius shouted again, "Clēmēns, go away! I command you. Perhaps Quintus and Lūcia have survived. Look for Quintus! Give this ring to Quintus!" After Caecilius handed his ring to Clēmēns, he immediately breathed his last. Clēmēns said to his master, "Farewell," and left the villa. However, Cerberus stayed in the villa, guarding his master in vain.