The two, accordingly, made their escape without any further interference.
“Will you walk with me as far as my house,” said Callias’ companion to him. “It lies in the Agræ.[33] The night is fine and I shall be glad of your company.”
Callias cheerfully consented, and was glad that he had done so, so witty and varied was his companion’s conversation.
When they had reached their destination his new friend invited him to enter. This he declined to do for the hour was late, and he wished to be at home.
“Well then,” said the other, “we can at least meet again. This, you see, is my house, and my name is Xenophon, the son of Gryllus.”
CHAPTER IX.
SOCRATES.
Callias lost no time in cultivating the acquaintance of his new friend. The very next day he called upon him at as early an hour as etiquette permitted, and was lucky enough to find him at home. He had lately returned, indeed, from drilling with the troop of Knights to which he belonged, and was just finishing his breakfast, which had been delayed till his military duties had been performed.
“Will you drink a cup to our new friendship—if you will allow me to call it so?” said Xenophon, to the young man as he entered the room.