FRIENDS. You cannot.
CALLIMACHUS. What makes you say so?
FRIENDS. You are crying for the moon.
CALLIMACHUS. Am I the first to do so? Have I not the example of many others to encourage me?
FRIENDS. Now listen. This woman you sigh for is a follower of the holy Apostle John, and has devoted herself entirely to God. They say she will not even go to the bed of Andronicus although he is a devout Christian. Is it likely that she will listen to you?
CALLIMACHUS. I came to you for consolation, and instead you drive me to despair!
FRIENDS. We should be poor friends if we consoled and flattered you at the expense of the truth.
CALLIMACHUS. Since you refuse to advise me, I will go to her and pour out my soul in words that would melt a heart of stone!
FRIENDS. Fool! it is hopeless!
CALLIMACHUS. I defy the stars!