I Summary

The story begins as two old friends, Libanius and Priscus, correspond regarding a manuscript written by Julian. Libaniua plans to title the work, "On Avengening the Emperor Julian." Libanius takes the stand that the two have nothing to lose by publishing the manuscript. Though Priscus agrees to send a copy of Julian's personal papers to Libanius, he declines to be part of the published project. He does, however, add notes throughout the story, sometimes correcting Julian's take on situations and sometimes adding details not included by Julian. Letters between the two men make up the first chapter. Some of the discussion is mundane - the cost of copying a manuscript, for example. The two also provide a look into their own lives. Priscus talks about his wife, Hippia, and both discuss the various aches, pains and ills that accompany old age. Priscus tells...