midnight
Chios was obdurate , and , when faced by his accusers , and asked to explain his position , he politely , but positively , refused . Nothing was left for him but death , and he was condemned to the lions . When the sentence became fully known , and , moreover , that he refused explanation , the populace were more than ever confounded , and desired to solve the problem . They well knew that , the decree having gone forth , he must die ; and rightly , said many , or the Sacred Grove would never be safe from robbers or midnight prowlers , and the glory of the Lady Saviour be impaired . * * * * * Chios was handed over to the authorities and lodged in a cell within the walls of the great theatre , to be brought forth on a day near at hand , when many who were condemned should fight to the end . The judgment pronounced on Chios reached the house of Venusta , and daughter and mother were sore distressed , for the Greek was as one of themselves . Nika was broken-hearted , and resolved to save him .