Mamertinus.

No, no, worthy friend; all the Greeks will exclaim: “Plato’s ideal is realised—‘Only a god can rule over men!’”

Themistius.

I can but trust that the goodwill of the beneficent powers may follow Nevita. He has received a great and difficult charge; I know little of him; but we must all hope that he may prove himself to be the right——

Mamertinus.

Undoubtedly; although there might perhaps be other men who——

Themistius.

Not that I would for a moment imply that your choice, oh peerless Emperor——

Mamertinus.

No, no; far from it!