He had often met Philip at the disputations he was wont to attend in the Museum, and had a great regard for him.

But of late Titianus had been out of health, and had kept his house.

He had undergone some serious operation shortly before Caesar's arrival at Alexandria had been announced, and this had made it impossible for him to be present at the grand reception, or even to pay his respects to Caracalla.
When Philip had sent in his name, Titianus had been very ready to receive him; but while the philosopher was still waiting in the anteroom, wondering to find it so empty--for it was usually crowded with the clients, petitioners, and friends of the most important man in the province--a bustle had arisen behind him, and a tall man had been ushered in past him, whom he recognized as the senator on whose arm Caracalla had leaned in the morning.

This was the actor, whom the priest of Serapis had pointed out to Melissa as one of Caesar's most powerful favorites.

From being a mere dancer he had risen in the course of a few years to the highest dignities.