The Gardener

The Old Man Phocas is at peace in his beautiful garden at Sinope in Pontus, overlooking the Black Sea. His servant ushers in three Roman soldiers, weary with travel, whom he entertains graciously. Not knowing who he is, they tell him that they have been sent to arrest Phocas, because he is the centre round whom the Christians of Pontus rally. Serene, he gives them hospitality for the night, sends his boy to warn the Christians to lie low, and digs his own grave. In the morning, he declares his identity. The eldest soldier is distressed but one of his companions threatens to denounce him if he swerves from instructions. The third soldier, a young man who loves beauty and humanity, tries to protect Phocas. He is overborne, but Phocas comforts him and enlightens him.