The time of restitution was come; though his understanding supplied him with no distinct projects, his heart urged him to rush blindly on the execution of his reform.

The moment had arrived--Macrinus should yet be avenged; the temple should at last be restored.
He descended into the city; he hurried--neither welcomed nor recognised--through the crowded streets; he entered the house of a man who had once been his friend and colleague in the days that were past, and poured forth to him his wild determinations and disjointed plans, entreating his assistance, and promising him a glorious success.

But his old companion had become, by a timely conversion to Christianity, a man of property and reputation in Alexandria, and he turned from the friendless enthusiast with indignation and contempt.

Repulsed, but not disheartened, Ulpius sought others who he had known in his prosperity and renown.

They had all renounced their ancient worship--they all received him with studied coldness or careless disdain; but he still persisted in his useless efforts.