The scene is laid in Nicopolis in the year 118, the second year of Hadrian. Silanus, a young Roman citizen of philosophic proclivities, goes from Rome to Nicopolis in order to attend the lectures of Epictetus. While he is there the Epistles of St. Paul and the Four Gospels fall into his hands. By letter and by word of mouth he discusses with his friends the Christian and Epictetian philosophies. Dr. Abbott wisely avoids all attempts at local colour. Here he is assisted by the autobiographical form.
