The precise part taken by Basil in the election of Eusebius can only be conjectured.  Eusebius, like Ambrose of Milan, a layman of rank and influence, was elevated per saltum to the episcopate.  Efforts were made by Julian and by some Christian objectors to get the appointment annulled by means of Gregory, Bishop of Nazianzus, on the ground of its having been brought about by violence.  Bishop Gregory refused to take any retrogressive steps, and thought the scandal of accepting the tumultuary appointment would be less than that of cancelling the consecration.  Gregory the younger presumably supported his father, and he associates Basil with him as probable sufferers from the imperial vengeance. Or. v. 39.  But he was at Nazianzus at the time of the election, and Basil is more likely to have been an active agent. cf. Greg. Naz. Ep. viii.