“We beseech it!” replied Bononius.
The Chaldean now came with measured pace from behind the altar.
“Granted!” he said solemnly.
Then he stretched out his hand, in which gleamed a small ivory wand. Instantly the spacious room glowed with a light as bright as that of day. Lamps not only burned in all the candelabra—but even between the pillars flames seemed to spring from the ground; shallow vessels appeared in which jets of light blazed steadily.
The two youths were almost blinded by the spectacle of this transformation. Lucius pressed his hand to his brow as if bewildered; Caius stood motionless, apparently scrutinizing, considering, examining. At last a smile of satisfaction flitted over his face. He seemed to have found the solution of this enigma, while Rutilius was still enthralled by the impression the miracle produced.
“Approach,” said the Chaldean in sonorous tones. “Stranger, what do you desire to know?”
Again the youths exchanged a glance; then Rutilius said:
“I would fain learn what the gods have allotted to me, in case I fulfil the most momentous and important design of my life.”
Olbasanus delayed his answer as before. At last he replied:
“I fear that is more vague than the gods permit. Can you not put your question more clearly; mention, without reserve, the design of which you speak?”