Julian.
[Eagerly.] The Mystic?
Basil.
Yes; that inscrutable man. He has appeared once more; this time in Ephesus. All the region around is in a ferment. Maximus is on all lips. Either he is a juggler or he has made a baleful compact with certain spirits. Even Christians are strangely allured by his impious signs and wonders.
Julian.
More, more; I entreat you!
Basil.
There is no more about him. Makrina only writes that she sees in the coming again of Maximus a proof that we are under the wrath of the Lord. She believes that great afflictions are in store for us, by reason of our sins.
Julian.
Yes, yes, yes!—Tell me, Basil: your sister is surely a remarkable woman.