I see olive-trees, paths, tombs.... Then I see the pediments of palaces or temples, columns, cypresses.... One might think one’s self in the outskirts of Rome.... But I do not perceive....
Silanus
It was Herod the Great, a sort of raving lunatic, but given to building, who filled this valley with splendid palaces more Roman than those of Rome herself.... But look half-way down the hill, to the left of those three tall cypresses, three or four stadia from here.... Do you espy one of the most beautiful marble villas?...
Verus
The villa with the wide white steps leading to a semicircular colonnade adorned with statues?...
Silanus
That is where she has retired....
Verus
Mary Magdalene?... In that solitude, so far from the city?...
Silanus