Julian.
Speak out—I beseech you!
Hekebolius.
[Falling on his knees.] Punish me according to your righteousness, sire; but renounce your youthful errors on things divine! Yes, most gracious Emperor, you are entangled in error, and I—oh, I marvel that the shame does not kill me—I, I have helped to lead you astray——
Julian.
[With outstretched arms.] Come to my closest embrace!
Hekebolius.
Oh, I entreat you, show gratitude to the immortal gods, whose darling you are! And if you cannot, then punish me because I do it in your stead——
Julian.
Come, come to my open arms, I tell you!