Julian.
Nevita, in three days we must be beyond the defiles!
Nevita.
[To the Persian.] Is it possible to reach the defiles in three days?
The Persian.
Yes, great warrior, it is possible, if you make use of this night as well.
Julian.
Let the camp be broken up! No time now for sleep, for rest! In four days—or five at the utmost—I must stand before Ctesiphon.—What are you thinking about! Ah, I know.
Nevita.
The fleet, sire!
Julian.
Yes, yes, yes, the fleet!
Nevita.
Should the Persian army reach the defiles a day later than we, they will—if they cannot injure you in any other way—turn westward against your ships
Julian.
And seize a vast amount of booty, wherewith to continue the war
Nevita.
If we could leave twenty thousand men with the ships, they would be safe
