In Ephesus. A brightly lighted hall in Prince Julian's dwelling. The entrance from the vestibule is on the right side: further back, a smaller door, covered by a curtain. On the left, a door, which leads to the inner part of the house. The wall in the back is pierced with an archway, through which a small enclosed court is visible, decked with small statues.
Servants prepare a festal supper, and lay cushions round the table. The Chamberlain, Eutherius, stands at the entrance, and, with much ceremony, half forces Gregory of Nazianzus and Basil of Caesarea to enter.
Eutherius.
Yes, yes; I assure you it is as I say.
Gregory.
Impossible! Do not make sport of us.
Basil.
You are jesting, friend! How can your master expect us? Not a creature knew of our leaving Athens; nothing has detained us on our way; we have kept pace with the clouds and the wild cranes.
