Writings of Methodius, Alexander of Lycopolis, Peter of Alexandria, and Several Fragments

someone else has given you information beforehand regarding what you ask. I thought you had heard nothing of what happened, and I was flattering myself with the idea that I would be the first to tell you. I made all haste to come here to you, fearing the very thing that has happened—that someone might anticipate me.

Eub.—Be comforted, my excellent friend, for we have had no precise information regarding anything that occurred; the person who brought us the news had nothing to tell us except that there had been dialogues, but when asked what they were and to what purpose, he did not know.

Greg.—Well then, since I came for this reason, do you want to hear everything said from the beginning? Or shall I pass by parts of it and recall only those points I consider worthy of mention?

Eub.—By no means the latter. But first, Gregorion, relate to us from the very beginning where the meeting was, about the setting forth of the food, and about yourself—how you poured the wine:

"They in golden cups
Each other pledged, while towards broad heaven they looked."

Greg.—You are always skillful in discussions and excessively powerful in argument—thoroughly refuting all your adversaries.

Eub.—It is not worth while, Gregorion, to contend about these things at present; but do oblige us by simply telling us what happened from the beginning.

Greg.—Well, I will try. But first answer me this: You know, I presume, Arete,A personification of virtue, the daughter of philosophy. the daughter of Philosophia?

Eub.—Why do you ask?

Greg.—"We went by invitation to a garden of hers with an eastern aspect, to enjoy the fruits of the season—myself" (I am repeating the words of Theopatra, for it was from her I obtained the information), "and Procilla, and Tusiane."