When her son and his colleagues doubted over some decision it was she who gave the casting vote; but though her advice in most cases proved sound and profitable, she herself ascribed this less to her own acumen and knowledge of the world than to the hints she obtained from the stars and from magical calculations.

Her son did not follow her in these speculations, but he rarely disputed the conclusions that she drew from her astrological studies.

While she was turning night into day he was glad to entertain a few learned friends, for all the hours of leisure that he could snatch from his pursuit of fortune, he devoted to philosophy, and the most distinguished thinkers of Alexandria were happy to be received at the hospitable table of so rich a patron.

He was charmed to be called "Callias," [The noble Athenian family of Callias was famed for its wealth and splendor.] and the heathen teachers at the schools of the Museum and Serapeum regarded him as a faithful ally.

It was known that he had been baptized, but he never liked to hear the fact mentioned.