The novel begins with a sumptuous description of the desert landscape of the Levant. An unnamed traveler dressed in rich attire, described as Egyptian in origin, rides a magnificent white camel. Extensive description of the traveler, his camel, his accouterment, and the landscape comprise much of the chapter. The camel stops at noon; the man says a prayer and dismounts.

The traveler erects a small tent and sets three places for a meal. A second camel rider approaches. His appearance and dress indicate that he is from India (Hindostan). A third traveler arrives, and the trio begin their meal. Before eating, the three say grace and marvel that they have each been divinely inspired to travel to this exact spot at this exact moment.

The three men introduce themselves to one another. The third traveler names himself Gaspar, son of Cleanthes the Athenian. He has been a student of Greek philosophy and a seeker of divine truth. Among the many schools of Greek thought, he has focused upon one which teaches a doctrine of an immortal soul in every human and another holding that there is a single God “infinitely just.”

Eventually despairing of reason’s ability to bring him knowledge of divine truth, Gaspar leaves Athens and goes to reside as a hermit in a mountainside cave.