Three years later, a Roman fleet is outfitting to hunt pirates in the Aegean Sea. The fleet commander, Arrius, boards the flagship near his estate in Misenum.

Arrius questions the ship’s various officers about his new command and their mission before taking a personal inspection. A description of the ship’s layout follows, as well as of the misery endured by the rowers. As Arrius looks over the rowers from his seat, Ben-Hur catches his attention. He appreciates Ben-Hur’s physical form and is surprised when he realizes his youth and Jewish heritage. Ben-Hur notices Arrius staring and takes it as hostile until Arrius smiles at him.

Arrius asks the rowing-master about Ben-Hur. He confirms that Ben-Hur is Jewish and adds that he is the ship’s best rower. Arrius sends for Ben-Hur and questions him. During the interview, it is revealed that Arrius knew Ben-Hur’s father. Arrius is stunned; he had thought that the family had all been destroyed. Ben-Hur breaks down weeping and begs Arrius for news of his family. Arrius asks him if he is guilty, and Ben-Hur swears to Jehovah that he is not and explains the circumstances of the accident and his subsequent arrest. Arrius is nearly convinced that Ben-Hur is telling the truth.