The exaltation of such a man could not but take us by surprise. Alexander has hitherto filled only trifling offices, and that in a manner little calculated to earn him either the respect or the affection of the citizens.
Julian.
I know that well, Libanius!
Libanius.
Alexander is violent in all his dealings, and justice is of little moment in his eyes——
Julian.
I know it; I know all you tell me. Alexander is a rough man, without morals and without eloquence. Alexander has in no way deserved so great advancement. But you may tell the citizens of Antioch that they have deserved Alexander. Ay, they have, if possible, deserved a still worse ruler, covetous and intractable as they are——
Libanius.
It is, then, as we feared; this is a punishment——
Julian.