No; he felt that such promises would not restrain them, and no solemn oath would be received, the more since, not being a Christian, he could swear only by the immortal gods, in whom he did not himself believe greatly, and whom they considered evil spirits.
He desired desperately to influence Lygia and her guardians in some way, but for that there was need of time.

For him it was all-important to see her, to look at her for a few days even.

As every fragment of a plank or an oar seems salvation to a drowning man, so to him it seemed that during those few days he might say something to bring him nearer to her, that he might think out something, that something favorable might happen.

Hence he collected his thoughts and said,-- "Listen to me, Christians.

Yesterday I was with you in Ostrianum, and I heard your teaching; but though I did not know it, your deeds have convinced me that you are honest and good people.