Adrian was a Pagan who, having witnessed the valour of the martyrs, confessed his faith in Christ and was thrown into prison for it. His wife Natalia who was already a “secret” believer visited him in prison, to comfort and encourage him. Adrian was tortured to death there. Natalia collected his relics, and took them to Argyopolis (near Byzantium) where she later died in peace.

Adrian’s “instant” conversion is not that uncommon in the late antique hagiographies – and, it would seem, supports the idea described in the New Scientist (and discussed here) that a community grows and has “staying power” in part because of the tangible level of committment of its prominent figures.