Arius was a clever and influential parish priest, in the district of Alexandria known as Baucalis. He is described as tall, with a melancholy, thoughtful face, a grave manner, and a pleasant voice. It came to the ears of the Bishop, Alexander, that he had been speaking of Christ as only the eldest and highest of God’s creatures, not denying Him the title God, but explaining away its meaning. Remonstrances, followed by an interview, produced no effect. At a meeting of clergy the Bishop spoke strongly.