Two years? In two years I can bring the earth under my sway.
Maximus.
You spoke, my Julian;—what said you?
Julian.
I am young and strong and healthy. Maximus—it is my will to live long.
[He goes out to the right. Maximus follows him.
SCENE SECOND
A hilly wooded region with a brook among the trees. On an elevation a little farm. It is towards sunset.
Columns of soldiers pass from left to right at the foot of the slope. Basil of Caesarea, and his sister Makrina, both in the dress of hermits, stand by the wayside and offer water and fruits to the weary soldiers.
Makrina.