It was even stated that the old sage's house was to be torn down, and within a few hours.

This was vehemently contradicted; but a tall, scrawny man seemed to have undertaken to defend the ruler's violence.
The friends knew him well.

It was the Syrian Philostratus, a clever extempore speaker and agitator of the people, who placed his clever tongue at the disposal of the highest bidder.
"The rascal is probably now in my uncle's employ," said Dion.

"The idea of putting the piece of sculpture there originated with him, and it is difficult to turn him from such plans.

There is some secret object to be gained here.