You have often heard me describe, O Basil, my poor, ruinous island villa, and now at length you behold it.

I did not think you would pass this way, or I would have prepared for your fitting reception.

By the greatest chance you find me here; and to-morrow I must be gone.

But scarce two thousand paces from here is the dwelling of this reverend man, who will entertain you fittingly, and give you the care you need; for it seems to me, dear Basil, that you are more than wearied.' The listener nodded, and let himself drop upon a seat near to where Marcian was standing.
'What have you to tell me ?' he asked under his breath.
'Nothing good, alas!' was the murmured reply.
'Shall we speak in private ?' 'Nay, it is needless.

All my secrets lie open to Gaudiosus.' Again Basil cast a glance at the presbyter, who had seated himself and appeared to be absorbed in thought.
'Do you mean,' he asked, 'that something new has befallen ?' His eyes were upon Marcian, and Marcian's upon those of Proserpine.
'Yes, something new.