I knew too well with what hope he came here.
When he found it vain, he turned away in bitterness.' This sounded like truth to one who knew Basil.

After a moment's reflection, Heliodora made another inquiry, and in a tone of less indifference.
'Why, lord Marcian, do you come to tell me this?
Basil has quitted Rome.

You can scarce ask me to pursue him.' 'Lady,' was the sad reply, 'I will not even yet abandon hope.

But this is not the moment to plead his cause with you, and indeed I came with a thought more selfish.' Ready to believe whatever might be uttered with such preface, Heliodora smiled and bade the speaker continue.

Again Marcian's head drooped; again his words became hesitant, vague.