Maximus.
Nothing can be more pressing than this. You <g>must</g> hear me!
Julian.
Then in the name of fortune and wisdom, speak, my brother!
Maximus.
[Draws him apart, and says in a low voice.] You know how I have striven to search and spell out, both in books and through auguries, the issue of this campaign?
Julian.
I know that you have been unable to foretell anything.
Maximus.
The omens spoke and the writings confirmed them. But the answer which always came was so strange that I could not but think myself mistaken.
Julian.
But now?
Maximus.
When we departed from Antioch, I wrote to Rome to consult the Sibylline Books
Julian.
Yes, yes!
Maximus.
This very moment the answer has arrived; a courier from the governor of Antioch brought it.
Julian.
Ah, Maximus,—and its purport?
