Basil.
I have told you how her affianced lover died. She regards him as her expectant bridegroom, to whom she owes her every thought, and whom she is pledged to meet unsullied.
Julian.
Strange how many feel the attraction of solitude in these times.—When you write to Makrina, you may tell her that I too
Basil.
She knows that, Julian; but she does not believe it.
Julian.
Why not? What doe she write?
Basil.
I pray you, friend, spare me
Julian.
If you love me, do not hide from me one word she writes.
Basil.
[Giving him the letter.] Read, if you must—it begins there.
Julian.
[Reads.] "Whenever you write of the Emperor's young kinsman, who is your friend, my soul is filled with a great and radiant joy" O Basil! lend me your eye; read for me.
Basil.
[Reading.] "Your account of the fearless confidence wherewith he came to Athens was to me
