[He descends the steps where his disciples have waited for him; then the boat is heard rowing away with them.

Julian.

[Gazes long over the water.] Who was he, that mysterious man?

Agathon.

[Approaching.] Listen to me, Julian——?

Julian.

[In lively excitement.] He understood me! And Libanius himself, the great, incomparable Libanius——! Only think, Agathon, Libanius has said—— Oh, how keen must the heathen eye not be!

Agathon.

Trust me, this meeting was a work of the Tempter!

Julian.