[Quickly seizing his hand.] Sire, do me one grace more.

The Emperor.

Ask what you will.

Julian.

Let me go to Pergamus. You know the old Aedesius teaches there——

The Emperor.

A very strange wish. You, among the heathens——?

Julian.

Aedesius is not dangerous; he is a high-minded old man, drawing towards the grave——

The Emperor.