“O wise young Hebrew!—nay, more than Hebrew! thy philosophy, as thou settest it forth, carrieth conviction, and seemeth worthy of confidence. It satisfieth my questionings far more perfectly than anything I have found in Greek or Roman lore. But I fain would know if any one among all the sons of men hath fully brought the Son, the Anointed One—or Christ, as thou hast called him—into real and perfect outward manifestation? Behold is not this the great need in order that men may have their inmost quality made visible? Thinkest thou that such an Inner made Outer will ever appear among the children of men?”
“He hath appeared already!”
The intense interest which had made Marcius almost oblivious to their rapid progress seemed to reach a climax. His strong, dark features lighted up with an unwonted curiosity; but at that moment there was a commotion around them, for they had arrived at the landing where they were to disembark.
“Behold thy converse hath touched my very heart, and I pray thee that I may hear further of this matter. Do thou and thy wife purpose to abide in Tarsus?”
“Peradventure for a season, though we have set our faces towards Rome.”
“I bid you welcome to my palace. Mine is thine. Pray abide under my roof during your sojourn.”
“Thou dost honor us with great kindness; but we are wonted to little pomp, and thy hospitality seemeth too generous.”
“Thou dost deserve honor for thy great goodness and learning; but if thou dost so desire, thy abiding-place shall, withal, be humble, and thou shalt be free from obligation.”
Serenus accepted the hearty invitation, and with Amabel prepared to leave the Nereid and become guests of Marcius. Vivian also was warmly welcomed to the special friendship of the Vice Legate, and was assured of the pleasure which his visits to the palace would afford.
By the order of Marcius the rescued sailors of the Salapiæ were to be abundantly ministered unto so long as their necessities remained.