Maximus.
How know you that that bygone beauty was beautiful—in itself—apart from the spectator’s idea?
Julian.
Ah, Maximus, that is just the question. What exists in itself? After to-day I know of nothing.
[He kicks the head of Apollo.
Have you ever been mightier, in yourself?
Strange, Maximus, that there should dwell such strength in delusion. Look at those Galileans. And look at me in the old days, when I thought it possible to build up again the fallen world of beauty.
Maximus.
Friend—if delusion be a necessity to you, return to the Galileans. They will receive you with open arms.
Julian.