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+The Project Gutenberg EBook of Pearl-Maiden, by H. Rider Haggard
+(#37 in our series by H. Rider Haggard)
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+Title: Pearl-Maiden
+
+Author: H. Rider Haggard
+
+Release Date: February, 2004  [EBook #5175]
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+
+*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK, PEARL-MAIDEN ***
+
+
+
+
+PEARL-MAIDEN
+By H. Rider Haggard
+
+First Published 1901.
+
+Etext prepared by John Bickers, jbickers@ihug.co.nz
+              and Dagny, dagnyj@hotmail.com
+
+
+
+                             PEARL-MAIDEN
+
+                              A Tale Of
+                        The Fall of Jerusalem
+
+                                  BY
+
+                           H. RIDER HAGGARD
+
+
+
+                                  TO
+
+                           GLADYS CHRISTIAN
+
+                        A DWELLER IN THE EAST
+                    THIS EASTERN TALE IS DEDICATED
+                  BY HER OWN AND HER FATHER'S FRIEND
+
+                              THE AUTHOR
+
+  Ditchingham:
+  September 14, 1902.
+
+
+
+
+
+                             PEARL-MAIDEN
+
+
+
+                              CHAPTER I
+
+                        THE PRISON AT CÆSAREA
+
+It was but two hours after midnight, yet many were wakeful in Cæsarea
+on the Syrian coast. Herod Agrippa, King of all Palestine--by grace of
+the Romans--now at the very apex of his power, celebrated a festival
+in honour of the Emperor Claudius, to which had flocked all the
+mightiest in the land and tens of thousands of the people. The city
+was full of them, their camps were set upon the sea-beach and for
+miles around; there was no room at the inns or in the private houses,
+where guests slept upon the roofs, the couches, the floors, and in the
+gardens. The great town hummed like a hive of bees disturbed after
+sunset, and though the louder sounds of revelling had died away,
+parties of feasters, many of them still crowned with fading roses,
+passed along the streets shouting and singing to their lodgings. As
+they went, they discussed--those of them who were sufficiently sober--
+the incidents of that day's games in the great circus, and offered or
+accepted odds upon the more exciting events of the morrow.
+
+The captives in the prison that was set upon a little hill, a frowning
+building of brown stone, divided into courts and surrounded by a high
+wall and a ditch, could hear the workmen at their labours in the
+amphitheatre below. These sounds interested them, since many of those
+who listened were doomed to take a leading part in the spectacle of
+this new day. In the outer court, for instance, were a hundred men
+called malefactors, for the most part Jews convicted of various
+political offences. These were to fight against twice their number of
+savage Arabs of the desert taken in a frontier raid, people whom
+to-day we should know as Bedouins, mounted and armed with swords and
+lances, but wearing no mail. The malefactor Jews, by way of
+compensation, were to be protected with heavy armour and ample
+shields. Their combat was to last for twenty minutes by the sand-
+glass, when, unless they had shown cowardice, those who were left
+alive of either party were to receive their freedom. Indeed, by a
+kindly decree the King Agrippa, a man who did not seek unnecessary
+bloodshed, contrary to custom, even the wounded were to be spared,
+that is, if any would undertake the care of them. Under these
+circumstances, since life is sweet, all had determined to fight their
+best.
+
+In another division of the great hall was collected a very different
+company. There were not more than fifty or sixty of these, so the wide
+arches of the surrounding cloisters gave them sufficient shelter and
+even privacy. With the exception of eight or ten men, all of them old,
+or well on in middle age, since the younger and more vigorous males
+had been carefully drafted to serve as gladiators, this little band
+was made of women and a few children. They belonged to the new sect
+called Christians, the followers of one Jesus, who, according to
+report, was crucified as a troublesome person by the governor, Pontius
+Pilate, a Roman official, who in due course had been banished to Gaul,
+where he was said to have committed suicide. In his day Pilate was
+unpopular in Judæa, for he had taken the treasures of the Temple at
+Jerusalem to build waterworks, causing a tumult in which many were
+killed. Now he was almost forgotten, but very strangely, the fame of
+this crucified demagogue, Jesus, seemed to grow, since there were many
+who made a kind of god of him, preaching doctrines in his name that
+were contrary to the law and offensive to every sect of the Jews.
+
+Pharisees, Sadducees, Zealots, Levites, priests, all called out
+against them. All besought Agrippa that he would be rid of them, these
+apostates who profaned the land and proclaimed in the ears of a nation
+awaiting its Messiah, that Heaven-born King who should break the Roman
+yoke and make Jerusalem the capital of the world, that this Messiah
+had come already in the guise of an itinerant preacher, and perished
+with other malefactors by the death of shame.
+
+Wearied with their importunities, the King listened. Like the
+cultivated Romans with whom he associated, Agrippa had no real
+religion. At Jerusalem he embellished the Temple and made offerings to
+Jehovah; at Berytus he embellished the temple and made offerings there
+to Jupiter. He was all things to all men and to himself--nothing but a
+voluptuous time-server. As for these Christians, he never troubled
+himself about them. Why should he? They were few and insignificant, no
+single man of rank or wealth was to be found among them. To persecute
+them was easy, and--it pleased the Jews. Therefore he persecuted them.
+One James, a disciple of the crucified man called Christ, who had
+wandered about the country with him, he seized and beheaded at
+Jerusalem. Another, called Peter, a powerful preacher, he threw into
+prison, and of their followers he slew many. A few of these were given
+over to be stoned by the Jews, but the pick of the men were forced to
+fight as gladiators at Berytus and elsewhere. The women, if young and
+beautiful, were sold as slaves, but if matrons or aged, they were cast
+to the wild beasts in the circus.
+
+Such was the fate, indeed, that was reserved for these poor victims in
+the prison on this very day of the opening of our history. After the
+gladiators had fought and the other games had been celebrated, sixty
+Christians, it was announced, old and useless men, married woman and
+young children whom nobody would buy, were to be turned down in the
+great amphitheatre. Then thirty fierce lions, with other savage
+beasts, made ravenous by hunger and mad with the smell of blood, were
+to be let loose among them. Even in this act of justice, however,
+Agrippa suffered it to be seen that he was gentle-hearted, since of
+his kindness he had decreed that any whom the lions refused to eat
+were to be given clothes, a small sum of money, and released to settle
+their differences with the Jews as they might please.
+
+Such was the state of public feeling and morals in the Roman world of
+that day, that this spectacle of the feeding of starved beasts with
+live women and children, whose crime was that they worshipped a
+crucified man and would offer sacrifice to no other god, either in the
+Temple or elsewhere, was much looked forward to by the population of
+Cæsarea. Indeed, great sums of money were ventured upon the event, by
+means of what to-day would be called sweepstakes, under the
+regulations of which he who drew the ticket marked with the exact
+number of those whom the lions left alive, would take the first prize.
+Already some far-seeing gamblers who had drawn low numbers, had bribed
+the soldiers and wardens to sprinkle the hair and garments of the
+Christians with valerian water, a decoction which was supposed to
+attract and excite the appetite of these great cats. Others, whose
+tickets were high, paid handsomely for the employment of artifices
+which need not be detailed, calculated to induce in the lions aversion
+to the subject that had been treated. The Christian woman or child, it
+will be observed, who was to form the /corpus vile/ of these ingenious
+experiments, was not considered, except, indeed, as the fisherman
+considers the mussel or the sand-worm on his hook.
+
+Under an arch by themselves, and not far from the great gateway where
+the guards, their lances in hand, could be seen pacing up and down,
+sat two women. The contrast in the appearance of this pair was very
+striking. One, who could not have been much more than twenty years of
+age, was a Jewess, too thin-faced for beauty, but with dark and lovely
+eyes, and bearing in every limb and feature the stamp of noble blood.
+She was Rachel, the widow of Demas, a Græco-Syrian, and only child of
+the high-born Jew Benoni, one of the richest merchants in Tyre. The
+other was a woman of remarkable aspect, apparently about forty years
+of age. She was a native of the coasts of Libya, where she had been
+kidnapped as a girl by Jewish traders, and by them passed on to
+Phœnicians, who sold her upon the slave market of Tyre. In fact she
+was a high-bred Arab without any admixture of negro blood, as was
+shown by her copper-coloured skin, prominent cheek bones, her
+straight, black, abundant hair, and untamed, flashing eyes. In frame
+she was tall and spare, very agile, and full of grace in every
+movement. Her face was fierce and hard; even in her present dreadful
+plight she showed no fear, only when she looked at the lady by her
+side it grew anxious and tender. She was called Nehushta, a name which
+Benoni had given her when many years ago he bought her upon the
+market-place. In Hebrew Nehushta means copper, and this new slave was
+copper-coloured. In her native land, however, she had another name,
+Nou, and by this name she was known to her dead mistress, the wife of
+Benoni, and to his daughter Rachel, whom she had nursed from
+childhood.
+
+The moon shone very brightly in a clear sky, and by the light of it an
+observer, had there been any to observe where all were so occupied
+with their own urgent affairs, could have watched every movement and
+expression of these women. Rachel, seated on the ground, was rocking
+herself to and fro, her face hidden in her hands, and praying.
+Nehushta knelt at her side, resting the weight of her body on her
+heels as only an Eastern can, and stared sullenly at nothingness.
+
+Presently Rachel, dropping her hands, looked at the tender sky and
+sighed.
+
+"Our last night on earth, Nou," she said sadly. "It is strange to
+think that we shall never again see the moon floating above us."
+
+"Why not, mistress? If all that we have been taught is true, we shall
+see that moon, or others, for ever and ever, and if it is not true,
+then neither light nor darkness will trouble us any more. However, for
+my own part I don't mean that either of us should die to-morrow."
+
+"How can you prevent it, Nou?" asked Rachel with a faint smile. "Lions
+are no respecters of persons."
+
+"Yet, mistress, I think that they will respect my person, and yours,
+too, for my sake."
+
+"What do you mean, Nou?"
+
+"I mean that I do not fear the lions; they are country-folk of mine
+and roared round my cradle. The chief, my father, was called Master of
+Lions in our country because he could tame them. Why, when I was a
+little child I have fed them and they fawned upon us like dogs."
+
+"Those lions are long dead, Nou, and the others will not remember."
+
+"I am not sure that they are dead; at least, blood will call to blood,
+and their company will know the smell of the child of the Master of
+Lions. Whoever is eaten, we shall escape."
+
+"I have no such hope, Nou. To-morrow we must die horribly, that King
+Agrippa may do honour to his master, Cæsar."
+
+"If you think that, mistress, then let us die at once rather than be
+rent limb from limb to give pleasure to a stinking mob. See, I have
+poison hidden here in my hair. Let us drink of it and be done: it is
+swift and painless."
+
+"Nay, Nou, it would not be right. I may lift no hand against my own
+life, or if perchance I may, I have to think of another life."
+
+"If you die, the unborn child must die also. To-night or to-morrow,
+what does it matter?"
+
+"Sufficient to the day is the evil thereof. Who knows? To-morrow
+Agrippa may be dead, not us, and then the child might live. It is in
+the hand of God. Let God decide."
+
+"Lady," answered Nehushta, setting her teeth, "for your sake I have
+become a Christian, yes, and I believe. But I tell you this--while I
+live no lion's fangs shall tear that dear flesh of yours. First if
+need be, I will stab you there in the arena, or if they take my knife
+from me, then I will choke you, or dash out your brains against the
+posts."
+
+"It may be a sin, Nou; take no such risk upon your soul."
+
+"My soul! What do I care about my soul? You are my soul. Your mother
+was kind to me, the poor slave-girl, and when you were an infant, I
+rocked you upon my breast. I spread your bride-bed, and if need be, to
+save you from worse things, I will lay you dead before me and myself
+dead across your body. Then let God or Satan--I care not which--deal
+with my soul. At least, I shall have done my best and died faithful."
+
+"You should not speak so," sighed Rachel. "But, dear, I know it is
+because you love me, and I wish to die as easily as may be and to join
+my husband. Only if the child could have lived, as I think, all three
+of us would have dwelt together eternally. Nay, not all three, all
+four, for you are well-nigh as dear to me, Nou, as husband or as
+child."
+
+"That cannot be, I do not wish that it should be, who am but a slave
+woman, the dog beneath the table. Oh! if I could save you, then I
+would be glad to show them how this daughter of my father can bear
+their torments."
+
+The Libyan ceased, grinding her teeth in impotent rage. Then suddenly
+she leant towards her mistress, kissed her fiercely on the cheek and
+began to sob, slow, heavy sobs.
+
+"Listen," said Rachel. "The lions are roaring in their dens yonder."
+
+Nehushta lifted her head and hearkened as a hunter hearkens in the
+desert. True enough, from near the great tower that ended the southern
+wall of the amphitheatre, echoed short, coughing notes and fierce
+whimperings, to be followed presently by roar upon roar, as lion after
+lion joined in that fearful music, till the whole air shook with the
+volume of their voices.
+
+"Aha!" cried a keeper at the gate--not the Roman soldier who marched
+to and fro unconcernedly, but a jailor, named Rufus, who was clad in a
+padded robe and armed with a great knife. "Aha! listen to them, the
+pretty kittens. Don't be greedy, little ones--be patient. To-night you
+will purr upon a full stomach."
+
+"Nine of them," muttered Nehushta, who had counted the roars, "all
+bearded and old, royal beasts. To hearken to them makes me young
+again. Yes, yes, I smell the desert and see the smoke rising from my
+father's tents. As a child I hunted them, now they will hunt me; it is
+their hour."
+
+"Give me air! I faint!" gasped Rachel, sinking against her.
+
+With a guttural exclamation of pity Nehushta bent down. Placing her
+strong arms beneath the slender form of her young mistress, and
+lifting her as though she were a child, she carried her to the centre
+of the court, where stood a fountain; for before it was turned to the
+purposes of a jail once this place had been a palace. Here she set her
+mistress on the ground with her back against the stonework, and dashed
+water in her face till presently she was herself again.
+
+While Rachel sat thus--for the place was cool and pleasant and she
+could not sleep who must die that day--a wicket-gate was opened and
+several persons, men, women, and children, were thrust through it into
+the court.
+
+"Newcomers from Tyre in a great hurry not to lose the lions' party,"
+cried the facetious warden of the gate. "Pass in, my Christian
+friends, pass in and eat your last supper according to your customs.
+You will find it over there, bread and wine in plenty. Eat, my hungry
+friends, eat before you are eaten and enter into Heaven or--the
+stomach of the lions."
+
+An old woman, the last of the party, for she could not walk fast,
+turned round and pointed at the buffoon with her staff.
+
+"Blaspheme not, you heathen dog!" she said, "or rather, blaspheme on
+and go to your reward! I, Anna, who have the gift of prophecy, tell
+you, renegade who were a Christian, and therefore are doubly guilty,
+that /you/ have eaten your last meal--on earth."
+
+The man, a half-bred Syrian who had abandoned his faith for profit and
+now tormented those who were once his brethren, uttered a furious
+curse and snatched a knife from his girdle.
+
+"You draw the knife? So be it, perish by the knife!" said Anna. Then
+without heeding him further the old woman hobbled on after her
+companions, leaving the man to slink away white to the lips with
+terror. He had been a Christian and knew something of Anna and of this
+"gift of prophecy."
+
+The path of these strangers led them past the fountain, where Rachel
+and Nehushta rose to greet them as they came.
+
+"Peace be with you," said Rachel.
+
+"In the name of Christ, peace," they answered, and passed on towards
+the arches where the other captives were gathered. Last of all, at
+some distance behind the rest, came the white-haired woman, leaning on
+her staff.
+
+As she approached, Rachel turned to repeat her salutation, then
+uttered a little cry and said:
+
+"Mother Anna, do you not know me, Rachel, the daughter of Benoni?"
+
+"Rachel!" she answered, starting. "Alas! child, how came you here?"
+
+"By the paths that we Christians have to tread, mother," said Rachel,
+sadly. "But sit; you are weary. Nou, help her."
+
+Anna nodded, and slowly, for her limbs were stiff, sank down on to the
+step of the fountain.
+
+"Give me to drink, child," she said, "for I have been brought upon a
+mule from Tyre, and am athirst."
+
+Rachel made her hands into a cup, for she had no other, and held water
+to Anna's lips, which she drank greedily, emptying them many times.
+
+"For this refreshment, God be praised. What said you? The daughter of
+Benoni a Christian! Well, even here and now, for that God be praised
+also. Strange that I should not have heard of it; but I have been in
+Jerusalem these two years, and was brought back to Tyre last Sabbath
+as a prisoner."
+
+"Yes, Mother, and since then I have become both wife and widow."
+
+"Whom did you marry, child?"
+
+"Demas, the merchant. They killed him in the amphitheatre yonder at
+Berytus six months ago," and the poor woman began to sob.
+
+"I heard of his end," replied Anna. "It was a good and noble one, and
+his soul rests in Heaven. He would not fight with the gladiators, so
+he was beheaded by order of Agrippa. But cease weeping, child, and
+tell me your story. We have little time for tears, who, perhaps, soon
+will have done with them."
+
+Rachel dried her eyes.
+
+"It is short and sad," she said. "Demas and I met often and learned to
+love each other. My father was no friend to him, for they were rivals
+in trade, but in those days knowing no better, Demas followed the
+faith of the Jews; therefore, because he was rich my father consented
+to our marriage, and they became partners in their business.
+Afterwards, within a month indeed, the Apostles came to Tyre, and we
+attended their preaching--at first, because we were curious to learn
+the truth of this new faith against which my father railed, for, as
+you know, he is of the strictest sect of the Jews; and then, because
+our hearts were touched. So in the end we believed, and were baptised,
+both on one night, by the very hand of the brother of the Lord. The
+holy Apostles departed, blessing us before they went, and Demas, who
+would play no double part, told my father of what we had done. Oh!
+mother, it was awful to see. He raved, shouted and cursed us in his
+rage, blaspheming Him we worship. More, woe is me that I should have
+to tell it: When we refused to become apostates he denounced us to the
+priests, and the priests denounced us to the Romans, and we were
+seized and thrown into prison; but my husband's wealth, most of it
+except that which the priests and Romans stole, stayed with my father.
+For many months we were held in prison here in Cæsarea; then they took
+my husband to Berytus, to be trained as a gladiator, and murdered him.
+Here I have stayed since with this beloved servant, Nehushta, who also
+became a Christian and shared our fate, and now, by the decree of
+Agrippa, it is my turn and hers to die to-day."
+
+"Child, you should not weep for that; nay, you should be glad who at
+once will find your husband and your Saviour."
+
+"Mother, I am glad; but, you see my state. It is for the child's sake
+I weep, that now never will be born. Had it won life even for an hour
+all of us would have dwelt together in bliss until eternity. But it
+cannot be--it cannot be."
+
+Anna looked at her with her piercing eyes.
+
+"Have you, then, also the gift of prophecy, child, who are so young a
+member of the Church, that you dare to say that this or that cannot
+be? The future is in the hand of God. King Agrippa, your father, the
+Romans, the cruel Jews, those lions that roar yonder, and we who are
+doomed to feed them, are all in the hand of God, and that which He
+wills shall befall, and no other thing. Therefore, let us praise Him
+and rejoice, and take no thought for the morrow, unless it be to pray
+that we may die and go hence to our Master, rather than live on in
+doubts and terrors and tribulations."
+
+"You are right, mother," answered Rachel, "and I will try to be brave,
+whatever may befall; but my state makes me feeble. The spirit, truly,
+is willing, but oh! the flesh is weak. Listen, they call us to partake
+of the Sacrament of the Lord--our last on earth"; and rising, she
+began to walk towards the arches.
+
+Nehushta stayed to help Anna to her feet. When she judged her mistress
+to be out of hearing she leaned down and whispered:
+
+"Mother, you have the gift; it is known throughout the Church. Tell
+me, will the child be born?"
+
+The old woman fixed her eyes upon the heavens, then answered, slowly:
+
+"The child will be born and live out its life, and I think that none
+of us are doomed to die this day by the jaws of lions, though some of
+us may die in another fashion. But I think also that your mistress
+goes very shortly to join her husband. Therefore it was that I showed
+her nothing of what came into my mind."
+
+"Then it is best that I should die also, and die I will."
+
+"Wherefore?"
+
+"Because I go to wait upon my mistress?"
+
+"Nay, Nehushta," answered Anna, sternly, "you stay to guard her child,
+whereof when all these earthly things are done you must give account
+to her."
+
+
+
+                              CHAPTER II
+
+                          THE VOICE OF A GOD
+
+Of all the civilisations whose records lie open to the student, that
+of Rome is surely one of the most wonderful. Nowhere, not even in old
+Mexico, was high culture so completely wedded to the lowest barbarism.
+Intellect Rome had in plenty; the noblest efforts of her genius are
+scarcely to be surpassed; her law is the foundation of the best of our
+codes of jurisprudence; art she borrowed but appreciated; her military
+system is still the wonder of the world; her great men remain great
+among a multitude of subsequent competitors. And yet how pitiless she
+was! What a tigress! Amid all the ruins of her cities we find none of
+a hospital, none, I believe, of an orphan school in an age that made
+many orphans. The pious aspirations and efforts of individuals seem
+never to have touched the conscience of the people. Rome incarnate had
+no conscience; she was a lustful, devouring beast, made more bestial
+by her intelligence and splendour.
+
+King Agrippa in practice was a Roman. Rome was his model, her ideals
+were his ideals. Therefore he built amphitheatres in which men were
+butchered, to the exquisite delight of vast audiences. Therefore,
+also, without the excuse of any conscientious motive, however
+insufficient or unsatisfactory, he persecuted the weak because they
+were weak and their sufferings would give pleasure to the strong or to
+those who chanced to be the majority of the moment.
+
+The season being hot it was arranged that the great games in honour of
+the safety of Cæsar, should open each day at dawn and come to an end
+an hour before noon. Therefore from midnight onwards crowds of
+spectators poured into the amphitheatre, which, although it would seat
+over twenty thousand, was not large enough to contain them all. An
+hour before the dawn the place was full, and already late comers were
+turned back from its gates. The only empty spaces were those reserved
+for the king, his royal guests, the rulers of the city, with other
+distinguished personages, and for the Christian company of old men,
+women and children destined to the lions, who, it was arranged, were
+to sit in full view of the audience until the time came for them to
+take their share in the spectacle.
+
+When Rachel joined the other captives she found that a long rough
+table had been set beneath the arcades, and on it at intervals, pieces
+of bread and cups and vases containing wine of the country that had
+been purchased at a great price from the guards. Round this table the
+elders or the infirm among the company were seated on a bench, while
+the rest of the number, for whom there was not room, stood behind
+them. At its head was an old man, a bishop among the Christians, one
+of the five hundred who had seen the risen Lord and received baptism
+from the hands of the Beloved Disciple. For some years he had been
+spared by the persecutors of the infant Church on account of his age,
+dignity, and good repute, but now at last fate seemed to have
+overtaken him.
+
+The service was held; the bread and wine, mixed with water, were
+consecrated with the same texts by which they are blessed to-day, only
+the prayers were extempore. When all had eaten from the platters and
+drunk from the rude cups, the bishop gave his blessing to the
+community. Then he addressed them. This, he told them, was an occasion
+of peculiar joy, a love-feast indeed, since all they who partook of it
+were about to lay down the burden of the flesh and, their labours and
+sorrows ended, to depart into bliss eternal. He called to their memory
+the supper of the Passover which had taken place within the lifetime
+of many of them, when the Author and Finisher of their faith had
+declared to the disciples that He would drink no more wine till He
+drank it new with them in His kingdom. Such a feast it was that lay
+spread before them this night. Let them be thankful for it. Let them
+not quail in the hour of trial. The fangs of the savage beasts, the
+shouts of the still more savage spectators, the agony of the quivering
+flesh, the last terror of their departing, what were these? Soon, very
+soon, they would be done; the spears of the soldiers would despatch
+the injured, and those among them whom it was ordained should escape,
+would be set free by the command of the representative of Cæsar, that
+they might prosecute the work till the hour came for them to pass on
+the torch of redemption to other hands. Let them rejoice, therefore,
+and be very thankful, and walk to the sacrifice as to a wedding feast.
+"Do you not rejoice, my brethren?" he asked. With one voice they
+answered, "We rejoice!" Yes, even the children answered thus.
+
+Then they prayed again, and again with uplifted hands the old man
+blessed them in the holy Triune Name.
+
+Scarcely had this service, as solemn as it was simple, been brought to
+an end when the head jailer, whose blasphemous jocosity since his
+reproof by Anna was replaced by a mien of sullen venom, came forward
+and commanded the whole band to march to the amphitheatre.
+Accordingly, two by two, the bishop leading the way with the sainted
+woman Anna, they walked to the gates. Here a guard of soldiers was
+waiting to receive them, and under their escort they threaded the
+narrow, darkling streets till they came to that door of the
+amphitheatre which was used by those who were to take part in the
+games. Now, at a word from the bishop, they began to chant a solemn
+hymn, and singing thus, were thrust along the passages to the place
+prepared for them. This was not, as they expected, a prison at the
+back of the amphitheatre, but, as has been said, a spot between the
+enclosing wall and the podium, raised a little above the level of the
+arena. Here, on the eastern side of the building, they were to sit
+till their turn came to be driven by the guards through a little
+wicket-gate into the arena, where the starving beasts of prey would be
+loosed upon them.
+
+It was now the hour before sunrise, and the moon having set, the vast
+theatre was plunged in gloom, relieved only here and there by stray
+torches and cressets of fire burning upon either side of the gorgeous,
+but as yet unoccupied, throne of Agrippa. This gloom seemed to oppress
+the audience with which the place was crowded; at any rate none of
+them shouted or sang, or even spoke loudly. They addressed each other
+in muffled tones, with the result that the air seemed to be full of
+mysterious whisperings. Had this poor band of condemned Christians
+entered the theatre in daylight, they would have been greeted with
+ironical cries and tauntings of "Dogs' meat!" and with requests that
+they should work a miracle and let the people see them rise again from
+the bellies of the lions. But now, as their solemn song broke upon the
+silence, it was answered only by one great murmur, which seemed to
+shape itself to the words, "the Christians! The doomed Christians!"
+
+By the light of a single torch the band took their places. Then once
+more they sang, and in that chastening hour the audience listened with
+attention, almost with respect. Their chant finished, the bishop stood
+up, and, moved thereto by some inspiration, began to address the
+mighty throng, whom he could not see, and who could not see him.
+Strangely enough they hearkened to him, perhaps because his speech
+served to while away the weary time of waiting.
+
+"Men and brethren," he began, in his thin, piercing notes, "princes,
+lords, peoples, Romans, Jews, Syrians, Greeks, citizens of Idumæa, of
+Egypt, and of all nations here gathered, hearken to the words of an
+old man destined and glad to die. Listen, if it be your pleasure, to
+the story of One whom some of you saw crucified under Pontius Pilate,
+since to know the truth of that matter can at least do you no hurt."
+
+"Be silent!" cried a voice, that of the renegade jailer, "and cease
+preaching your accursed faith!"
+
+"Let him alone," answered other voices. "We will hear this story of
+his. We say--let him alone."
+
+Thus encouraged the old man spoke on with an eloquence so simple and
+yet so touching, with a wisdom so deep, that for full fifteen minutes
+none cared even to interrupt him. Then a far-away listener cried:
+
+"Why must these people die who are better than we?"
+
+"Friend," answered the bishop, in ringing tones, which in that heavy
+silence seemed to search out even the recesses of the great and
+crowded place, "we must die because it is the will of King Agrippa, to
+whom God has given power to destroy us. Mourn not for us because we
+perish cruelly, since this is the day of our true birth, but mourn for
+King Agrippa, at whose hands our blood will be required, and mourn,
+mourn for yourselves, O people. The death that is near to us perchance
+is nearer still to some of you; and how will you awaken who perish in
+your sins? What if the sword of God should empty yonder throne? What
+if the voice of God should call on him who fills it to make answer of
+his deeds? Soon or late, O people, it will call on him and you to pass
+hence, some naturally in your age, others by the sharp and dreadful
+roads of sword, pestilence or famine. Already those woes which He whom
+you crucified foretold, knock at your door, and within a few short
+years not one of you who crowd this place in thousands will draw the
+breath of life. Nothing will remain of you on earth save the fruit of
+those deeds which you have done--these and your bones, no more. Repent
+you, therefore, repent while there is time; for I, whom you have
+doomed, I am bidden to declare that judgment is at hand. Yes, even
+now, although you see him not, the Angel of the Lord hangs over you
+and writes your names within his book. Now while there is time I would
+pray for you and for your king. Farewell."
+
+As he spoke those words "the Angel of the Lord hangs over you," so
+great was the preacher's power, and in that weary darkness so sharply
+had he touched the imagination of his strange audience, that with a
+sound like to the stir of rustling trees, thousands of faces were
+turned upwards, as though in search of that dread messenger.
+
+"Look, look!" screamed a hundred voices, while dim arms pointed to
+some noiseless thing that floated high above them against the
+background of the sky, which grew grey with the coming dawn. It
+appeared and disappeared, appeared again, then seemed to pass downward
+in the direction of Agrippa's throne, and vanished.
+
+"It is that magician's angel," cried one, and the multitudes groaned.
+
+"Fool," said another, "it was but a bird."
+
+"Then for Agrippa's sake," shrilled a new voice, "the gods send that
+it was not an owl."
+
+Thereat some laughed, but the most were silent. They knew the story of
+King Agrippa and the owl, and how it had been foretold that this
+spirit in the form of a bird would appear to him again in the hour of
+his death, as it had appeared to him in the hour of his triumph.[*]
+
+[*] See Josephus, "Antiquities of the Jews," Book XVII., Chap. VI.,
+    Sec. 7; and Book XIX., Chap. VIII., Sec. 2.
+
+Just then from the palace to the north arose a sound of the blare of
+trumpets. Now a herald, speaking on the summit of the great eastern
+tower, called out that it was dawn above the mountains, and that King
+Agrippa came with all his company, whereon the preaching of the old
+Christian and his tale of a watching Vengeance were instantly
+forgotten. Presently the glad, fierce notes of the trumpets drew
+nearer, and in the grey of the daybreak, through the great bronze
+gates of the Triumphal Way that were thrown open to greet him,
+advanced Agrippa, wonderfully attired and preceded by his legionaries.
+At his right walked Vibius Marsus, the Roman President of Syria, and
+on his left Antiochus, King of Commagena, while after him followed
+other kings, princes, and great men of his own and foreign lands.
+
+Agrippa mounted his golden throne while the multitude roared a
+welcome, and his company were seated around and behind him according
+to their degree.
+
+Once more the trumpets sounded, and the gladiators of different arms,
+headed by the equites who fought on horseback, numbering in all more
+than five hundred men, were formed up in the arena for the preliminary
+march past--the salutation of those about to die to their emperor and
+lord. Now, that they also might take their part in the spectacle, the
+band of Christian martyrs were thrust through the door in the podium,
+and to make them seem as many as possible in number, marshalled two by
+two.
+
+Then the march past began. Troop by troop, arrayed in their shining
+armour and armed, each of them, with his own familiar weapon, the
+gladiators halted in front of Agrippa's throne, giving to him the
+accustomed salutation of "Hail, King, we who are about to die, salute
+thee," to be rewarded with a royal smile and the shouts of the
+approving audience. Last of all came the Christians, a motley,
+wretched-looking group, made up of old men, terrified children
+clinging to their mothers, and ill-clad, dishevelled women. At the
+pitiful sight, that very mob which a few short minutes before had hung
+upon the words of the bishop, their leader, now, as they watched them
+hobbling round the arena in the clear, low light of the dawning, burst
+into peals of laughter and called out that each of them should be made
+to lead his lion. Quite heedless of these scoffs and taunts, they
+trudged on through the white sand that soon would be so red, until
+they came opposite to the throne.
+
+"Salute!" roared the audience.
+
+The bishop held up his hand and all were silent. Then, in the thin
+voice with which they had become familiar, he said:
+
+"King, we who are about to die--forgive thee. May God do likewise."
+
+Now the multitude ceased laughing, and with an impatient gesture,
+Agrippa motioned to the martyrs to pass on. This they did humbly; but
+Anna, being old, lame and weary, could not walk so fast as her
+companions. Alone she reached the saluting-place after all had left
+it, and halted there.
+
+"Forward!" cried the officers. But she did not move nor did she speak.
+Only leaning on her staff she looked steadily up at the face of the
+king Agrippa. Some impulse seemed to draw his eyes to hers. They met,
+and it was noted that he turned pale. Then straightening herself with
+difficulty upon her tottering feet, Anna raised her staff and pointed
+with it to the golden canopy above the head of Herod. All stared
+upward, but saw nothing, for the canopy was still in the shadow of the
+velarium which covered all the outer edge of the cavea, leaving the
+centre open to the sky. It would appear, however, that Agrippa did see
+something, for he who had risen to declare the games open, suddenly
+sank back upon his throne, and remained thus lost in thought. Then
+Anna limped forward to join her company, who once more were driven
+through the little gate in the wall of the arena.
+
+For a second time, with an effort, Agrippa lifted himself from his
+throne. As he rose the first level rays of sunrise struck full upon
+him. He was a tall and noble-looking man, and his dress was glorious.
+To the thousands who gazed upon him from the shadow, set in that point
+of burning light he seemed to be clothed in a garment of glittering
+silver. Silver was his crown, silver his vest, silver the wide robe
+that flowed from his shoulders to the ground.
+
+"In the name of Cæsar, to the glory of Cæsar, I declare these games
+open!" he cried.
+
+Then, as though moved by a sudden impulse, all the multitude rose
+shouting: "The voice of a god! The voice of a god! The voice of the
+god Agrippa!"
+
+Nor did Agrippa say them nay; the glory of such worship thundered at
+him from twenty thousand throats made him drunken. There for a while
+he stood, the new-born sunlight playing upon his splendid form, while
+the multitude roared his name, proclaiming it divine. His nostrils
+spread to inhale this incense of adoration, his eyes flashed and
+slowly he waved his arms, as though in benediction of his worshippers.
+Perchance there rose before his mind a vision of the wondrous event
+whereby he, the scorned and penniless outcast, had been lifted to this
+giddy pinnacle of power. Perchance for a moment he believed that he
+was indeed divine, that nothing less than the blood and right of
+godhead could thus have exalted him. At least he stood there, denying
+naught, while the people adored him as Jehovah is adored of the Jews
+and Christ is adored of the Christians.
+
+Then of a sudden smote the Angel of the Lord. Of a sudden intolerable
+pain seized upon his vitals, and Herod remembered that he was but
+mortal flesh, and knew that death was near.
+
+"Alas!" he cried, "I am no god, but a man, and even now the common
+fate of man is on me."
+
+As he spoke a great white owl slid from the roof of the canopy above
+him and vanished through the unroofed centre of the cavea.
+
+"Look! look! my people!" he cried again, "the spirit that brought me
+good fortune leaves me now, and I die, my people, I die!" Then,
+sinking upon his throne, he who a moment gone had received the worship
+of a god, writhed there in agony and wept. Yes, Herod wept.
+
+Attendants ran to him and lifted him in their arms.
+
+"Take me hence to die," he moaned. Now a herald cried:
+
+"The king is smitten with a sore sickness, and the games are closed.
+To your homes, O people."
+
+For a while the multitude sat silent, for they were fear-stricken.
+Then a murmur rose among them that spread and swelled till it became a
+roar.
+
+"The Christians! The Christians! They prophesied the evil. They have
+bewitched the king. They are wizards. Kill them, kill them, kill
+them!"
+
+Instantly, like waves pouring in from every side, hundreds and
+thousands of men began to flow towards that place where the martyrs
+sat. The walls and palisades were high. Sweeping aside the guards,
+they surged against them like water against a rock; but climb they
+could not. Those in front began to scream, those behind pressed on.
+Some fell and were trodden underfoot, others clambered upon their
+bodies, in turn to fall and be trodden underfoot.
+
+"Our death is upon us!" cried one of the Nazarenes.
+
+"Nay, life remains to us," answered Nehushta. "Follow me, all of you,
+for I know the road," and, seizing Rachel about the middle, she began
+to drag her towards a little door. It was unlocked and guarded by one
+man only, the apostate jailer Rufus.
+
+"Stand back!" he cried, lifting his spear.
+
+Nehushta made no answer, only drawing a dagger from her robe, she fell
+upon the ground, then of a sudden rose again beneath his guard. The
+knife flashed and went home to the hilt. Down fell the man screaming
+for help and mercy, and there, in the narrow way, his spirit was
+stamped out of him. Beyond lay the broad passage of the vomitorium.
+They gained it, and in an instant were mixed with the thousands who
+sought to escape the panic. Some perished, some were swept onwards,
+among them Nehushta and Rachel. Thrice they nearly fell, but the
+fierce strength of the Libyan saved her mistress, till at length they
+found themselves on the broad terrace facing the seashore.
+
+"Whither now?" gasped Rachel.
+
+"Where shall I lead you?" answered Nehushta. "Do not stay. Be swift."
+
+"But the others?" said Rachel, glancing back at the fighting,
+trampling, yelling mob.
+
+"God guard them! We cannot."
+
+"Leave me," moaned her mistress. "Save yourself, Nou; I am spent," and
+she sank down to her knees.
+
+"But I am still strong," muttered Nehushta, and lifting the swooning
+woman in her sinewy arms, she fled on towards the port, crying, "Way,
+way for my lady, the noble Roman, who has swooned!"
+
+And the multitude made way.
+
+
+
+                             CHAPTER III
+
+                           THE GRAIN STORE
+
+Having passed the outer terraces of the amphitheatre in safety,
+Nehushta turned down a side street, and paused in the shadow of the
+wall to think what she should do. So far they were safe; but even if
+her strength would stand the strain, it seemed impossible that she
+should carry her mistress through the crowded city and avoid
+recapture. For some months they had both of them been prisoners, and
+as it was the custom of the inhabitants of Cæsarea, when they had
+nothing else to do, to come to the gates of their jail, and, through
+the bars, to study those within, or even, by permission of the guards,
+to walk among them, their appearance was known to many. Doubtless, so
+soon as the excitement caused by the illness of the king had subsided,
+soldiers would be sent to hunt down the fugitives who had escaped from
+the amphitheatre. More especially would they search for her, Nehushta,
+and her mistress, since it would be known that one of them had stabbed
+the warden of the gate, a crime for which they must expect to die by
+torture. Also--where could they go who had no friends, since all
+Christians had been expelled the city?
+
+No, there was but one chance for them--to conceal themselves.
+
+Nehushta looked round her for a hiding-place, and in this matter, as
+in others on that day, fortune favoured them. This street in the old
+days, when Cæsarea was called Strato's Tower, had been built upon an
+inner wall of the city, now long dismantled. At a distance of a few
+yards from where Nehushta had stopped stood an ancient gateway, unused
+save at times by beggars who slept under it, which led nowhere, for
+the outer arch of it was bricked up. Into this gateway Nehushta bore
+her mistress unobserved, to find to her relief that it was quite
+untenanted, though a still smouldering fire and a broken amphora
+containing clean water showed her that folk had slept there who could
+find no better lodging. So far so good; but here it would be scarcely
+safe to hide, as the tenants or others might come back. Nehushta
+looked around. In the thick wall was a little archway, beneath which
+commenced a stair. Setting Rachel on the ground, she ran up it,
+lightly as a cat. At the top of thirty steps, many of them broken, she
+found an old and massive door. With a sigh of disappointment, the
+Libyan turned to descend again; then, by an afterthought, pushed at
+the door. To her surprise it stirred. Again she pushed, and it swung
+open. Within was a large chamber, lighted by loopholes pierced in the
+thickness of the wall, for the use of archers. Now, however, it served
+no military purpose, but was used as a storehouse by a merchant of
+grain, for there in a corner lay a heap of many measures of barley,
+and strewn about the floor were sacks of skin and other articles.
+
+Nehushta examined the room. No hiding-place could be better--unless
+the merchant chanced to come to visit his store. Well, that must be
+risked. Down she sped, and with much toil and difficulty carried her
+still swooning mistress up the steps and into the chamber, where she
+laid her on a heap of sacks.
+
+Again, by an afterthought, she ventured to descend, this time to fetch
+the broken jar of water. Then she closed the door, setting it fast
+with a piece of wood, and began to chafe Rachel's hands and to
+sprinkle her face from the jar. Presently the dark eyes opened and her
+mistress sat up.
+
+"Is it over, and is this Paradise?" she murmured.
+
+"I should not call the place by that name, lady," answered Nehushta,
+drily, "though perhaps, in contrast with the hell that we have left,
+some might think it so. Drink!" and she held the water to her lips.
+
+Rachel obeyed her eagerly. "Oh! it is good," she said. "But how came
+we here out of that rushing crowd?"
+
+Before she answered, muttering "After the mistress, the maid,"
+Nehushta swallowed a deep draught of water in her turn, which, indeed,
+she needed sorely. Then she told her all.
+
+"Oh! Nou," said Rachel, "how strong and brave you are! But for you I
+should be dead."
+
+"But for God, you mean, mistress, for I hold that He sent that knife-
+point home."
+
+"Did you kill the man?" asked Rachel.
+
+"I think that he died by a dagger-thrust as Anna foretold," she
+answered evasively; "and that reminds me that I had better clean the
+knife, since blood on the blade is evidence against its owner." Then
+drawing the dagger from its hiding-place she rubbed it with dust,
+which she took from a loop-hole, and polished it bright with a piece
+of hide.
+
+Scarcely was this task accomplished to Nehushta's satisfaction when
+her quick ears caught a sound.
+
+"For your life, be silent," she whispered, and laid her face sideways
+to a crack in the cement floor and listened. Well might she listen,
+for below were three soldiers searching for her and her mistress.
+
+"The old fellow swore that he saw a Libyan woman carrying a lady down
+this street," said one of them, the petty officer in charge, to his
+companion, "and there was but a single brown-skin in the lot; so if
+they aren't here I don't know where they can be."
+
+"Well," grumbled one of the soldiers, "this place is as empty as a
+drum, so we may as well be going. There'll be fun presently which I
+don't want to miss."
+
+"It was the black woman who knifed our friend Rufus, wasn't it--in the
+theatre there?" asked the third soldier.
+
+"They say so; but as he was trodden as flat as a roof-board, and they
+had to take him up in pieces, it is difficult to know the truth of
+that matter. Anyhow his mates are anxious to get the lady, and I
+should be sorry to die as she will, when they do, or her mistress
+either. They have leave to finish them in their own fashion."
+
+"Hadn't we best be going?" said the first soldier, who evidently was
+anxious to keep some appointment.
+
+"Hullo!" exclaimed the second, a sharp-eyed fellow, "there's a stair;
+we had better just look up it."
+
+"Not much use," answered the officer. "That old thief Amram, the corn-
+merchant, has a store there, and he isn't one of the sort to leave it
+unlocked. Still, just go and see."
+
+Then came the sound of footsteps on the stair, and presently a man
+could be heard fumbling at the further side of the door. Rachel shut
+her eyes and prayed; Nehushta, drawing the knife from her bosom, crept
+towards the doorway like a tigress, and placed her left hand on the
+stick that held it shut. Well it was that she did so, since presently
+the soldier gave a savage push that might easily have caused the wood
+to slip on the cemented floor. Now, satisfied that it was really
+locked, he turned and went down the steps.
+
+With a gasp of relief Nehushta once more set her ear to the crack.
+
+"It's fast enough," reported the man, "but perhaps it might be as well
+to get the key from Amram and have a look."
+
+"Friend," said the officer, "I think that you must be in love with
+this black lady; or is it her mistress whom you admire? I shall
+recommend you for the post of Christian-catcher to the cohort. Now
+we'll try that house at the corner, and if they are not there, I am
+off to the palace to see how his godship is getting on with that
+stomach-ache and whether it has moved him to order payment of our
+arrears. If he hasn't, I tell you flatly that I mean to help myself to
+something, and so do the rest of the lads, who are mad at the stopping
+of the games."
+
+"It would be much better to get that key from Amram and have a look
+upstairs," put in number two soldier reflectively.
+
+"Then go to Amram, or to Pluto, and ask for the key of Hades for aught
+I care!" replied his superior with irritation. "He lives about a
+league off at the other end of the town."
+
+"I do not wish for the walk," said the conscientious soldier; "but as
+we are searching for these escaped Christians, by your leave, I do
+think it would have been much better to have got that key from Amram
+and peeped into the chamber upstairs."
+
+Thereon the temper of the officer, already ruffled by the events of
+the morning and the long watch of the preceding night, gave way, and
+he departed, consigning the Christians, escaped or recaptured, Amram
+and the key, his subordinate, and even the royal Agrippa who did not
+pay his debts, to every infernal god of every religion with which he
+was acquainted.
+
+Nehushta lifted her head from the floor.
+
+"Thanks be to God! They are gone," she said.
+
+"But, Nou, will they not come back? Oh! I fear lest they should come
+back."
+
+"I think not. That sharp-nosed rat has made the other angry, and I
+believe that he will find him some harder task than the seeking of a
+key from Amram. Still, there is danger that this Amram may appear
+himself to visit his store, for in these days of festival he is sure
+to be selling grain to the bakers."
+
+Scarcely were the words out of her mouth when a key rattled, the door
+was pushed sharply, and the piece of wood slipped and fell. Then the
+hinges creaked, and Amram--none other--entered, and, closing the door
+behind him, locked it, leaving the key in the lock.
+
+Amram was a shrewd-faced, middle-aged Phœnician and, like most
+Phœnicians of that day, a successful trader, this corn-store
+representing only one branch of his business. For the rest he was clad
+in a quiet-coloured robe and cap, and to all appearance unarmed.
+
+Having locked the door, he walked to a little table, beneath which
+stood a box containing his tablets whereon were entered the amounts of
+corn bought and delivered, to come face to face with Nehushta.
+Instantly she slid between him and the door.
+
+"Who in the name of Moloch are you?" he asked, stepping back
+astonished, to perceive as he did so, Rachel seated on the heap of
+sacks; "and you," he added. "Are you spirits, thieves, ladies in
+search of a lodging, or--perchance those two Christians whom the
+soldiers are looking for in yonder house?"
+
+"We are the two Christians," said Rachel desperately. "We fled from
+the amphitheatre, and have taken refuge here, where they nearly found
+us."
+
+"This," said Amram solemnly, "comes of not locking one's office. Do
+not misunderstand me; it was no fault of mine. A certain apprentice is
+to blame, to whom I shall have a word to say. In fact, I think that I
+will say it at once," and he stepped towards the door.
+
+"Indeed you will not," interrupted Nehushta.
+
+"And pray, my Libyan friend, how will you prevent me?"
+
+"My putting a knife into your gizzard, as I did through that of the
+renegade Rufus an hour or two ago! Ah! I see you have heard the
+story."
+
+Amram considered, then replied:
+
+"And what if I also have a knife?"
+
+"In that case," said Nehushta, "draw it, and we will see which is the
+better, man or woman. Merchant, your weapon is your pen. You have not
+a chance with me, an Arab of Libya, and you know it."
+
+"Yes," answered Amram, "I think I do; you desert folk are so reckless
+and athletic. Also, to be frank, as you may have guessed, I am
+unarmed. Now, what do you propose?"
+
+"I propose that you get us safely out of Cæsarea, or, if you prefer
+it, that we shall all die here in this grain-store, for, by whatever
+god you worship, Phœnician, before a hand is laid upon my mistress or
+me, this knife goes through your heart. I owe no love to your people,
+who bought me, a king's daughter, as a slave, and I shall be quite
+happy to close my account with one of them. Do you understand?"
+
+"Perfectly, perfectly. Why show such temper? The affair is one of
+business; let us discuss it in a business spirit. You wish to escape
+from Cæsarea; I wish you to escape from my grain-store. Let me go out
+and arrange the matter."
+
+"On a plank; not otherwise unless we accompany you," answered
+Nehushta. "Man, why do you waste words with us. Listen. This lady is
+the only child of Benoni, the great merchant of Tyre. Doubtless you
+know him?"
+
+"To my cost," replied Amram, with a bow. "Three times has he
+overreached me in various bargains."
+
+"Very well; then you know also that he is rich and will pay him
+liberally who rescues his daughter from great peril."
+
+"He might do so, but I am not sure."
+
+"I am sure," answered Nehushta, "and for this service my mistress here
+will give you a bill for any reasonable sum drawn upon her father."
+
+"Yes, but the question is--will he honour it? Benoni is a prejudiced
+man, a very prejudiced man, a Jew of the Jew, who--does not like
+Christians."
+
+"I think that he will honour it, I believe that he will honour it; but
+that risk is yours. See here, merchant, a doubtful draft is better
+than a slit throat."
+
+"Quite so. The argument is excellent. But you desire to escape. If you
+keep me here, how can I arrange the matter?"
+
+"That is for you to consider. You do not leave this place except in
+our company, and then at the first sign of danger I drive this knife
+home between your shoulders. Meanwhile my mistress is ready to sign
+any moderate draft upon her father."
+
+"It is not necessary. Under the circumstances I think that I will
+trust to the generosity of my fellow trader Benoni. Meanwhile I assure
+you that nothing will give me greater happiness than to fall in with
+your views. Believe me, I have no prejudice against Christians, since
+those of them whom I have met were always honest and paid their debts
+in full. I do not wish to see you or your mistress eaten by lions or
+tortured. I shall be very glad to think that you are following the
+maxims of your peculiar faith to an extreme old age, anywhere, outside
+the limits of my grain-store. The question is, how can I help you do
+this? At present I see no way."
+
+"The question is--how will you manage to keep your life in you over
+the next twelve hours?" answered Nehushta grimly. "Therefore I advise
+you to find a way"; and to emphasise her words she turned, and, having
+made sure that the door was locked, slipped its key into the bosom of
+her dress.
+
+Amram stared at her in undisguised admiration. "I would that I were
+unmarried," he said, "which is not the case," and he sighed; "for
+then, upon my word, I should be inclined to make a certain proposal to
+you----"
+
+"Nehushta--that is my name----"
+
+"Nehushta--exactly. Well, it is out of the question."
+
+"Quite."
+
+"Therefore I have a suggestion to make. To-night a ship of mine sails
+for Tyre. Will you honour me by accepting a passage on her?"
+
+"Certainly," answered Nehushta, "provided that you accompany us."
+
+"It was not my intention to go to Tyre this voyage."
+
+"Then your intention can be changed. Look you, we are desperate, and
+our lives are at stake. Your life is also at stake, and I swear to
+you, by the Holy One we worship, that before any harm comes to my
+mistress you shall die. Then what will your wealth and your schemes
+avail you in the grave? It is a little thing we ask of you--to help
+two innocent people to escape from this accursed city. Will you grant
+it? Or shall I put this dagger through your throat? Answer, and at
+once, or I strike and bury you in your own corn."
+
+Even in that light Amram turned visibly paler. "I accept your terms,"
+he said. "At nightfall I will conduct you to the ship, which sails two
+hours after sunset with the evening wind. I will accompany you to Tyre
+and deliver the lady over to her father, trusting to his liberality
+for my reward. Meanwhile, this place is hot. That ladder leads to the
+roof, which is parapeted, so that those sitting or even standing
+there, cannot be seen. Shall we ascend?"
+
+"If you go first; and remember, should you attempt to call out, my
+knife is always ready."
+
+"Of that I am quite aware--you have said so several times. I have
+passed my words, and I do not go back upon my bargains. The stars are
+with you, and, come what may, I obey them."
+
+Accordingly they ascended to the roof, Amram going first, Nehushta
+following him, and Rachel bringing up the rear. On it, projecting
+inward from the parapet, was a sloping shelter once made use of by the
+look-out sentry in bad or hot weather. The change from the stifling
+store below with its stench of ill-cured hides, to this lofty, shaded
+spot, where the air moved freely, was so pleasant to Rachel, outworn
+as she was with all she had gone through, that presently she fell
+asleep, not to wake again till evening. Nehushta, however, who did not
+go to sleep, and Amram, employed themselves in watching the events
+that passed in the city below. From this height they could see the
+great square surrounding the palace, and the strange scenes being
+enacted therein. It was crowded by thousands of people, for the most
+part seated on the ground, clad in garments of sack-cloth and throwing
+dust upon the heads of themselves, their wives and children. From all
+this multitude a voice of supplication rose to heaven, which, even at
+that distance, reached the ears of Nehushta and her companion in a
+murmur of sound, constant and confused.
+
+"They pray that the king may live," said Amram.
+
+"And I pray that he may die," answered Nehushta.
+
+The merchant shrugged his shoulders. "I care nothing either way,
+provided that the peace is not disturbed to the injury of trade. On
+the whole, however, he is a good king who causes money to be spent,
+which is what kings are for--in Judæa--where they are but feathers
+puffed up by the breath of Cæsar, to fall if he cease to blow. But
+look!"
+
+As he spoke, a figure appeared upon the steps of the palace who made
+some communication to the crowd, whereon a great wail went up to the
+very skies.
+
+"You have your wish," said Amram; "Herod is dead or dying, and now, I
+suppose, as his son is but a child, that we shall be ruled by some
+accursed thief of a Roman procurator with a pocket like a sack without
+a bottom. Surely that old bishop of yours who preached in the
+amphitheatre this morning, must have had a hint of what was coming,
+from his familiar spirit; or perhaps he saw the owl and guessed its
+errand. Moreover, I think that troubles are brewing for others besides
+Herod, since the old man said as much.
+
+"What became of him and the rest?" asked Nehushta.
+
+"Oh! a few were trampled to death, and others the Jews stirred up the
+mob to stone, saying that they had bewitched the king, which they, who
+were disappointed of the games, did gladly. Some, however, are said to
+have escaped, and, like yourselves, lie in hiding."
+
+Nehushta glanced at her mistress, now fast asleep, her pale face
+resting on her arm.
+
+"The world is hard--for Christians," she said.
+
+"Friend, it is hard for all, as, were I to tell you my own story, even
+you would admit," and he sighed. "At least you Christians believe in
+something beyond," he went on; "for you death is but a bridge leading
+to a glorious city, and I trust that you may be right. Is not your
+mistress delicate?"
+
+Nehushta nodded.
+
+"She was never very strong, and sorrow has done its work with her.
+They killed her husband at Berytus yonder, and--her trouble is very
+near."
+
+"Yes, yes, I heard that story, also that his blood is on the hands of
+her own father, Benoni. Ah! who is so cruel as a bigot Jew? Not we
+Phœnicians even, of whom they say such evil. Once I had a daughter"--
+here his hard face softened--"but let be, let be! Look you, the risk
+is great, but what I can do I will do to save her, and you also,
+friend, since, Libyan or no, you are a faithful woman. Nay, do not
+doubt me. I have given my word, and if I break it willingly, then may
+I perish and be devoured of dogs. My ship is small and undecked. In
+that she shall not sail, but a big galley weighs for Alexandria
+to-night, calling at Apollonia and Joppa, and in it I will take you
+passages, saying that the lady is a relative of mine and that you are
+her slave. This is my advice to you--that you go straight to Egypt,
+where there are many Christians who will protect you for a while.
+Thence your mistress can write to her father, and if he will receiver
+her, return. If not, at least she will be safe, since no writ of Herod
+runs in Alexandria, and there they do not love the Jews."
+
+"Your counsel seems good," said Nehushta, "if she will consent to it."
+
+"She must consent who, indeed, is in no case to make other plans. Now
+let me go. Before nightfall I will return again with food and
+clothing, and lead you to the ship."
+
+Nehushta hesitated.
+
+"I say to you, do not fear. Will you not trust me?"
+
+"Yes," answered Nehushta, "because I must. Nay, the words are not
+kind, but we are sadly placed, and it is strange to find a true friend
+in one whom I have threatened with a knife."
+
+"I understand," said Amram gravely. "Let the issue prove me. Now
+descend that you may lock the door behind me. When I return I will
+stand in the open space yonder with a slave, making pretence to re-
+bind a burst bundle of merchandise. Then come down and admit me
+without fear."
+
+When the Phœnician had gone Nehushta sat by her sleeping mistress, and
+waited with an anxious heart. Had she done wisely? Would Amram betray
+them and send soldiers to conduct them, not to the ship, but to some
+dreadful death? Well, if so, at least she would have time to kill her
+mistress and herself, and thus escape the cruelties of men. Meanwhile
+she could only pray; and pray she did in her fierce, half-savage
+fashion, never for herself, but for her mistress whom she loved, and
+for the child that, she remembered thankfully, Anna had foretold would
+be born and live out its life. Then she remembered also that this same
+holy woman had said that its mother's hours would be few, and at the
+thought Nehushta wept.
+
+
+
+                              CHAPTER IV
+
+                         THE BIRTH OF MIRIAM
+
+The time passed slowly, but none came to disturb them. Three hours
+after noon Rachel awoke, refreshed but hungry, and Nehushta had no
+food to give her except raw grain, from which she turned. Clearly and
+in few words she told her mistress all that had passed, asking her
+consent to the plan.
+
+"It seems good as another," said Rachel with a little sigh, "and I
+thank you for making it, Nou, and the Phœnician, if he is a true man.
+Also I do not desire to meet my father--at least, for many years. How
+can I, seeing the evil which he has brought upon me?"
+
+"Do not speak of that," interrupted Nehushta hastily, and for a long
+while they were silent.
+
+It was an hour before sunset, or a little less, when at length
+Nehushta saw two persons walk on to the patch of open ground which she
+watched continually--Amram and a slave who bore a bundle on his head.
+Just then the rope which bound this bundle seemed to come loose; at
+least, at his master's command, the man set it down and they began to
+retie it, then advanced slowly towards the archway. Now Nehushta
+descended, unlocked the door and admitted Amram, who carried the
+bundle.
+
+"Where is the slave?" she asked.
+
+"Have no fear, friend; he is trusty and watches without, not knowing
+why. Come, you must both of you be hungry, and I have food. Help me
+loose this cord."
+
+Presently the package was undone, and within it appeared, first, two
+flagons of old wine, then meats more tasty then Nehushta had seen for
+months, then rich cloaks and other garments made in the Phœnician
+fashion, and a robe of white with coloured edges, such as was worn by
+the body-slaves of the wealthy among that people. Lastly--and this
+Amram produced from his own person--there was a purse of gold, enough
+to support them for many weeks. Nehushta thanked him with her eyes,
+and was about to speak.
+
+"There, say nothing," he interrupted. "I passed my word, and I have
+kept it, that is all. Also on this money I shall charge interest, and
+your mistress can repay it in happier days. Now listen: I have taken
+the passages, and an hour after sunset we will go aboard. Only I warn
+you, do not let it be known that you are escaped Christians, for the
+seamen think that such folk bring them bad luck. Come, help me carry
+the food and wine. After you have eaten you can both of you retire
+here and robe yourselves."
+
+Presently they were on the roof.
+
+"Lady," said Nehushta, "we did well to put faith in this man. He has
+come back, and see what he has brought us."
+
+"The blessing of God be on you, sir, who help the helpless!" exclaimed
+Rachel, looking hungrily at the tempting meats which she so sorely
+needed.
+
+"Drink," said Amram cheerfully, as he poured wine and water into a
+cup; "it will hearten you, and your faith does not forbid the use of
+the grape, for have I not heard you styled the society of drunkards?"
+
+"That is only one bad name among many, sir," said Rachel, as she took
+the cup.
+
+Then they ate and were satisfied, and afterwards descended into the
+corn-store to wash with the remainder of the water, and clothe
+themselves from head to foot in the fragrant and beautiful garments
+that might have been made for their wear, so well had Amram judged
+their sizes and needs.
+
+By the time that they were dressed the light was dying. Still, they
+waited a while for the darkness; then, with a new hope shining through
+their fears, crept silently into the street, where the slave, a
+sturdy, well-armed fellow, watched for them.
+
+"To the quay," said Amram, and they walked forward, choosing those
+thoroughfares that were most quiet. It was well for them that they did
+this, for now it was known that Agrippa's sickness was mortal, the
+most of the soldiers were already in a state of mutiny, and, inflamed
+with wine, paraded the market-places and larger streets, shouting and
+singing obscene songs, and breaking into the liquor shops and private
+houses, where they drank healths to Charon, who was about to bear away
+their king in his evil bark. As yet, however, they had not begun
+killing those against whom they had a grudge. This happened
+afterwards, though it has nothing to do with our story.
+
+Without trouble or molestation the party reached the quay, where a
+small boat with two Phœnician rowers was waiting for them. In it they
+embarked, except the slave, and were rowed out to the anchorage to
+board a large galley which lay half a mile or more away. This they did
+without difficulty, for the night was calm, although the air hung
+thick and heavy, and jagged clouds, wind-breeders as they were called,
+lay upon the horizon. On the lower deck of the galley stood its
+captain, a sour-faced man, to whom Amram introduced his passengers,
+who were, as he declared, relatives of his own proceeding to
+Alexandria.
+
+"Good," said the captain. "Show them to their cabin, for we sail as
+soon as the wind rises."
+
+To the cabin they went accordingly, a comfortable place stored with
+all that they could need; but as they passed to it Nehushta heard a
+sailor, who held a lantern in his hand, say to his companion:
+
+"That woman is very like one whom I saw in the amphitheatre this
+morning when they gave the salute to King Agrippa."
+
+"The gods forbid it!" answered the other. "We want no Christians here
+to bring evil fortune on us."
+
+"Christians or no Christians, there is a tempest brewing, if I
+understand the signs of the weather," muttered the first man.
+
+In the cabin Amram bade his guests farewell.
+
+"This is a strange adventure," he said, "and one that I did not look
+for. May it prove to the advantage of us all. At the least I have done
+my best for your safety, and now we part."
+
+"You are a good man," replied Rachel, "and whatever may befall us, I
+pray again that God may bless you for your kindness to His servants. I
+pray also that He may lead you to a knowledge of the truth as it was
+declared by the Lord and Master Whom we serve, that your soul may win
+salvation and eternal life."
+
+"Lady," said Amram, "I know nothing of these doctrines, but I promise
+you this: that I will look into them and see whether or no they
+commend themselves to my reason. I love wealth, like all my people,
+but I am not altogether a time-server, or a money-seeker. Lady, I have
+lost those whom I desire to find again."
+
+"Seek and you will find."
+
+"I will seek," he answered, "though, mayhap, I shall never find."
+
+Thus they parted.
+
+Presently the night breeze began to flow off the land, the great sail
+was hoisted, and with the help of oars, worked by slaves, the ship
+cleared the harbour and set her course for Joppa. Two hours later the
+wind failed so that they could proceed only by rowing over a dead and
+oily sea, beneath a sky that was full of heavy clouds. Lacking any
+stars to steer by, the captain wished to cast anchor, but as the water
+proved too deep they proceeded slowly, till about an hour before dawn
+a sudden gust struck them which caused the galley to lean over.
+
+"The north wind! The black north wind!" shouted the steersman, and the
+sailors echoed his cry dismally, for they knew the terrors of that
+wind upon the Syrian coast. Then the gale began to rage. By daylight
+the waves were running high as mountains and the wind hissed through
+the rigging, driving them forward beneath a small sail. Nehushta
+crawled out of the cabin, and, in the light of an angry dawn, saw far
+away the white walls of a city built near the shore.
+
+"Is not that Appolonia?" she asked of the captain.
+
+"Yes," he answered, "it is Appolonia sure enough, but we shall not
+anchor there this voyage. Now it is Alexandria for us or nothing."
+
+So they rushed past Appolonia and forward, climbing the slopes of the
+rising seas.
+
+Thus things went on. About mid-day the gale became a hurricane, and do
+what they would they were driven forward, till at length they saw the
+breakers forming on the coast. Rachel lay sick and prostrate, but
+Nehushta went out of the cabin to watch.
+
+"Are we in danger?" she asked of a sailor.
+
+"Yes, accursed Christian," he replied, "and you have brought it on us
+with your evil eye."
+
+Then Nehushta returned to the cabin where her mistress lay almost
+senseless with sea-sickness. On board the ship the terror and
+confusion grew. For a while they were able to beat out to sea until
+the mast was carried away. Then the rudder broke, and, as the oars
+could not be worked in that fearful tempest, the galley began to drive
+shorewards. Night fell, and who can describe the awful hours that
+followed? All control of the vessel being lost, she drove onwards
+whither the wind and the waves took her. The crew, and even the oar-
+slaves, flew to the wine with which she was partly laden, and strove
+to drown their terrors in drink. Thus inflamed, twice some of them
+came to the cabin, threatening to throw their passengers overboard.
+But Nehushta barred the door and called through it that she was well
+armed and would kill the first man who tried to lay a hand upon her.
+So they went away, and after the second visit grew too drunken to be
+dangerous.
+
+Again the dawn broke over the roaring, foaming sea and revealed the
+fate that awaited them. Not a mile away lay the grey line of shore,
+and between them and it a cruel reef on which the breakers raged.
+Towards this reef they were driving fast. Now the men grew sober in
+their fear, and began to build a large raft of oars and timber; also
+to make ready the boat which the galley carried. Before all was done
+she struck beak first, and was lifted on to a great flat rock, where
+she wallowed, with the water seething round her. Then, knowing that
+their hour was come, the crew made shift to launch the boat and raft
+on the lee side, and began to clamber into them. Now Nehushta came out
+of the cabin and prayed the captain to save them also, whereon he
+answered her with an oath that this bad luck was because of them, and
+that if either she or her mistress tried to enter the boat, they would
+stab them and cast them into the sea as an offering to the storm-god.
+
+So Nehushta struggled back to the cabin, and kneeling by the side of
+her mistress, with tears told her that these black-hearted sailors had
+left them alone upon the ship to drown. Rachel answered that she cared
+little, but only desired to be free of her fear and misery.
+
+As the words left her lips, Nehushta heard a sound of screaming, and
+crawling to the bulwarks, looked forth to see a dreadful sight. The
+boat and the raft, laden with a great number of men who were fighting
+for places with each other, having loosed from the lee of the ship,
+were come among the breakers, which threw them up as a child throws a
+ball at play. Even while Nehushta gazed, their crafts were overturned,
+casting them into the water, every one there to be dashed against the
+rocks or drowned by the violence of the waves, so that not a man of
+all that ship's company came living to the shore.
+
+Like tens of thousands of others on this coast in all ages, they
+perished, every one of them--and that was the reward of their
+wickedness.
+
+Giving thanks to God, Who had brought them out of that danger against
+their wills, Nehushta crept back to the cabin and told her mistress
+what had passed.
+
+"May they find pardon," said Rachel, shuddering; "but as for us, it
+will matter little whether we are drowned in the boat or upon the
+galley."
+
+"I do not think that we shall drown," answered Nehushta.
+
+"How are we to escape it, Nou? The ship lies upon the rock, where the
+great waves will batter her to pieces. Feel how she shakes beneath
+their blows, and see the spray flying over us."
+
+"I do not know, mistress; but we shall not drown."
+
+Nehushta was right, for after they had remained fast a little longer
+they were saved, thus: Suddenly the wind dropped, then it rose again
+in a last furious squall, driving before it a very mountain of water.
+This vast billow, as it rushed shorewards, caught the galley in its
+white arms and lifted her not only off the rock whereon she lay, but
+over the further reefs, to cast her down again upon a bed of sand and
+shells, within a stone's throw of the beach, where she remained fast,
+never to shift more.
+
+Now also, as though its work were done, the gale ceased, and, as is
+common on the Syrian coast, the sea sank rapidly, so that by nightfall
+it was calm again. Indeed, three hours before sunset, had both of them
+been strong and well, they might have escaped to the land by wading.
+But this was not to be, for now what Nehushta had feared befell, and
+when she was least fitted to bear it, being worn out with anguish of
+mind and weariness of body, pain took sudden hold of Rachel, of which
+the end was that, before midnight, there, in that broken vessel upon a
+barren coast where no man seemed to live, a daughter was born to her.
+
+"Let me see the child," said Rachel. So Nehushta showed it to her by
+the light of a lamp which burned in the cabin.
+
+It was a small child, but very white, with blue eyes and dark hair
+that curled. Rachel gazed at it long and tenderly. Then she said,
+"Bring me water while there is yet time."
+
+When the water was brought she dipped her trembling hand into it, and
+made the sign of the Cross upon the babe's forehead, baptising her
+with the name of Miriam, after that of her own mother, to the service
+and the company of Jesus the Christ.
+
+"Now," she said, "whether she live an hour or an hundred years, this
+child is a Christian, and whatever befalls, should she come to the age
+of understanding, see to it, Nou, who are henceforth the foster-mother
+of her body and her soul, that she does not forget the rites and
+duties of her faith. Lay this charge on her also as her father
+commanded, and as I command, that should she be moved to marriage, she
+wed none who is not a Christian. Tell her that such was the will of
+those who begat her, and that if she be obedient to it, although they
+are dead, and as it seems strengthless, yet shall their blessing be
+upon her all her life's days, and with it the blessing of the Lord she
+serves."
+
+"Oh!" moaned Nehushta, "why do you speak thus?"
+
+"Because I am dying. Gainsay me not. I know it well. My life ebbs from
+me. My prayers have been answered, and I was preserved to give this
+infant birth; now I go to my appointed place and to one who waits for
+me, and to the Lord in Whose care he is in Heaven, as we are in His
+care on earth. Nay, do not mourn; it is no fault of yours, nor could
+any physician's skill have saved me, whose strength was spent in
+suffering, and who for many months have walked the world, bearing in
+my breast a broken heart. Give me of that wine to drink--and listen."
+
+Nehushta obeyed and Rachel went on: "So soon as my breath has left me,
+take the babe and seek some village on the shore where it can be
+nursed, for which service you have the means to pay. Then when she is
+strong enough and it is convenient, travel, not to Tyre--for there my
+father would bring up the child in the strictest rites and customs of
+the Jews--but to the village of the Essenes upon the shores of the
+Dead sea. There find out my mother's brother, Ithiel, who is of their
+society, and present to him the tokens of my name and birth which
+still hang about my neck, and tell him all the story, keeping nothing
+back. He is not a Christian, but he is a good and gentle-hearted man
+who thinks well of Christians, and is grieved at their persecution,
+since he wrote to my father reproving him for his deeds towards us
+and, as you know, strove, but in vain, to bring about our release from
+prison. Say to him that I, his kinswoman, pray of him, as he will
+answer to God, and in the name of the sister whom he loved, to protect
+my child and you; to do nothing to turn her from her faith, and in all
+things to deal with her as his wisdom shall direct--for so shall peace
+and blessing come upon him."
+
+Thus spoke Rachel, but in short and broken words. Then she began to
+pray, and, praying, fell asleep. When she woke again the dawn was
+breaking. Signing to Nehushta to bring her the child, for now she
+could no longer speak, she scanned it earnestly in the new-born light,
+then placed her hand upon its head and blessed it. Nehushta she
+blessed also, thanking her with her eyes and kissing her. Then again
+she seemed to fall asleep, and presently, when Nehushta looked at her,
+Rachel was dead.
+
+Nehushta understood and gave a great and bitter cry, since to her
+after the death of her first mistress, this woman had been all her
+life. As a child she had nursed her; as a maiden shared her joys and
+sorrows; as a wife and widow toiled day and night fiercely and
+faithfully to console her in her desolation and to protect her in the
+dreadful dangers through which she had passed. Now, to end it all, it
+was her lot to receive her last breath and to take into her arms her
+new-born infant.
+
+Then and there Nehushta swore that as she had done by the mother she
+so would do by the child till the day when her labours ended. Were it
+not for this child, indeed, they would have ended now, Christian
+though she was, since she was crushed with bitter sorrow and her heart
+seemed void of hope or joy. All her days had been hard--she who was
+born to great place among her own wild people far away, and snatched
+thence to be a slave, set apart by her race and blood from those into
+whose city she was sold; she who would have naught to do with base men
+nor become the plaything of those of higher birth; she who had turned
+Christian and drunk deep of the tribulations of the faith; she who had
+centred all her eager heart upon two beloved women, and lost them
+both. All her days had been hard, and here and now, by the side of her
+dead mistress, she would have ended them. But the child remained, and
+while it lived, she would live. If it died, then perhaps she would die
+also.
+
+Meanwhile Nehushta had no time for grief, since the babe must be fed,
+and within twelve hours. Yet, as she could not bury her, and would not
+throw her to the sharks, she was minded to give her mistress a royal
+funeral after the custom of her own Libyan folk. Here was flame, and
+what pyre could be grander than this great ship?
+
+Lifting the body from its couch, Nehushta carried it to the deck and
+laid it by the broken mast, closing the eyes and folding the hands.
+Then she loosened from about the neck those tokens of which Rachel had
+spoken, made some food and garments into a bundle, and, carrying the
+lamp with her, went into the captain's cabin amidships. Here a money-
+box was open, and in it gold and some jewels which this man had
+abandoned in his haste. These she took, adding them to her own store
+and securing them about her. This done she fired the cabin, and
+passing to the hold, broke a jar of oil and fired that also. Then she
+fled back again, knelt by her dead mistress and kissed her, took the
+child, wrapping it warmly in a shawl, and by the ladder of rope which
+the sailors had used, let herself down into the quiet sea. Its waters
+did not reach higher than her middle, and soon she was standing on the
+shore and climbing the sandhills that lay beyond. At their summit she
+turned to look, and lo! yonder where the galley was, already a great
+pillar of fire shot up to heaven, for there was much oil in the hold
+and it burnt furiously.
+
+"Farewell!" she cried, "farewell!"
+
+Then, weeping bitterly, Nehushta walked on inland.
+
+
+
+                              CHAPTER V
+
+                         MIRIAM IS ENTHRONED
+
+Presently Nehushta found herself out of sight of the sea and among
+cultivated land, for here were vines and fig trees grown in gardens
+fenced with stone walls; also patches of ripening barley and of wheat
+in the ear, much trodden down as though horses had been feeding there.
+Beyond these gardens she came to a ridge, and saw beneath her a
+village of many houses of green brick, some of which seemed to have
+been destroyed by fire. Into this village she walked boldly, and there
+the first sight that met her eyes was that of sundry dead bodies, upon
+which dogs were feeding.
+
+On she went up the main street, till she saw a woman peeping at her
+over a garden wall.
+
+"What has chanced here?" asked Nehushta, in the Syrian tongue.
+
+"The Romans! the Romans! the Romans!" wailed the woman. "The head of
+our village quarrelled with the tax-gatherers, and refused to pay his
+dues to Cæsar. So the soldiers came a week ago and slaughtered nearly
+all of us, and took such sheep and cattle as they could find, and with
+them many of the young folk, to be sold as slaves, so that the rest
+are left empty and desolate. Such are the things that chance in this
+unhappy land. But, woman, who are you?"
+
+"I am one shipwrecked!" answered Nehushta, "and I bear with me a new-
+born babe--nay, the story is too long to tell you; but if in this
+place there is any one who can nurse the babe, I will pay her well."
+
+"Give it me!" said the woman, in an eager whisper; "my child perished
+in the slaughter; I ask no reward."
+
+Nehushta looked at her. Her eyes were wild, but she was still young
+and healthy, a Syrian peasant.
+
+"Have you a house?" she asked.
+
+"Yes, it still stands, and my husband lives; we hid in a cave, but
+alas! they slew the infant that was out with the child of a neighbour.
+Quick, give me the babe."
+
+So Nehushta gave it to her, and thus Miriam was nurtured at the breast
+of one whose offspring had been murdered because the head of the
+village had quarrelled with a Roman tax-collector. Such was the world
+in the days when Christ came to save it.
+
+After she had suckled the child the woman led Nehushta to her house, a
+humble dwelling that had escaped the fire, where they found the
+husband, a wine-grower, mourning the death of his infant and the ruin
+of his town. To him she told as much of her story as she thought well,
+and proffered him a gold piece, which, so she swore, was one of ten
+she had about her. He took it gladly, for now he was penniless, and
+promised her lodging and protection, and the service of his wife as
+nurse to the child for a month at least. So there Nehushta stayed,
+keeping herself hid, and at the end of the month gave another gold
+piece to her hosts, who were kindly folk that never dreamed of working
+her evil or injustice. Seeing this, Nehushta found yet more money,
+wherewith the man, blessing her, bought two oxen and a plough, and
+hired labour to help him gather what remained of his harvest.
+
+The shore where the infant was born upon the wrecked ship, was at a
+distance of about a league from Joppa and two days' journey from
+Jerusalem, whence the Dead Sea could be reached in another two days.
+When Nehushta had dwelt there for some six months, as the babe throve
+and was hearty, she offered to pay the man and his wife three more
+pieces of gold if they would travel with her to the neighbourhood of
+Jericho, and, further, to purchase a mule and an ass for the journey,
+which she would give to them when it was accomplished. The eyes of
+these simple folk glistened at the prospect of so much wealth, and
+they agreed readily, promising also to stay three months by Jericho,
+if need were, till the child could be weaned. So a man was hired to
+guard the house and vines, and they started in the late autumn, when
+the air was cool and pleasant.
+
+Of their journey nothing need be said, save that they accomplished it
+without trouble, being too humble in appearance to attract the notice
+of the thieves who swarmed upon the highways, or of the soldiers who
+were set to catch the thieves.
+
+Skirting Jerusalem, which they did not enter, on the sixth day they
+descended into the valley of the Jordan, through the desolate hills by
+which it is bordered. Camping that night outside the town, at daybreak
+on the seventh morning they started, and by two hours after noon came
+to the village of the Essenes. On its outskirts they halted, while
+Nehushta and the nurse, bearing with them the child, that by now could
+wave its arms and crow, advanced boldly into the village, where it
+would appear men dwelt only--at least no women were to be seen--and
+asked to be led to the Brother Ithiel.
+
+The man to whom they spoke, who was robed in white, and engaged in
+cooking outside a large building, averted his eyes in answering, as
+though it were not lawful for him to look upon the face of a woman. He
+said, very civilly, however, that Brother Ithiel was working in the
+fields, whence he would not return till supper time.
+
+Nehushta asked where these fields were, since she desired to speak
+with him at once. The man answered that if they walked towards the
+green trees that lined the banks of Jordan, which he pointed out to
+them, they could not fail to find Ithiel, as he was ploughing in the
+irrigated land with two white oxen, the only ones they had.
+Accordingly they set out again, having the Dead Sea on their right,
+and travelled for the half of a league through the thorn-scrub that
+grows in this desert. Passing the scrub they came to lands which were
+well cultivated and supplied with water from the Jordan by means of
+wheels and long poles with a jar at one end and a weight at the other,
+which a man could work, emptying the contents of the jar again and
+again into an irrigation ditch.
+
+In one of these fields they saw the two white oxen at their toil, and
+behind them the labourer, a tall man of about fifty years of age,
+bearded, and having a calm face and eyes that were very deep and
+quiet. He was clad in a rough robe of camel's hair, fastened about his
+middle with a leathern girdle, and wore sandals on his feet. To him
+they went, asking leave to speak with him, whereon he halted the oxen
+and greeted them courteously, but, like the man in the village, turned
+his eyes away from the faces of the women. Nehushta bade the nurse
+stand back out of hearing, and, bearing the child in her arms, said:
+
+"Sir, tell me, I pray you, if I speak to Ithiel, a priest of high rank
+among this people of the Essenes, and brother to the dead lady Miriam,
+wife of Benoni the Jew, a merchant of Tyre?"
+
+At the mention of these names Ithiel's face saddened, then grew calm
+again.
+
+"I am so called," he answered; "and the lady Miriam is my sister, who
+now dwells in the happy and eternal country beyond the ocean with all
+the blessed"--for so the Essenes imagined that heaven to which they
+went when the soul was freed from the vile body.
+
+"The lady Miriam," continued Nehushta, "had a daughter Rachel, whose
+servant I was."
+
+"Was?" he interrupted, startled from his calm. "Has she then been put
+to death by those fierce men and their king, as was as her husband
+Demas?"
+
+"Nay, sir, but she died in childbirth, and this is the babe she bore";
+and she held the sleeping little one towards him, at whom he gazed
+earnestly, yes, and bent down and kissed it--since, although they saw
+so few of them, the Essenes loved children.
+
+"Tell me that sad story," he said.
+
+"Sir, I will both tell it and prove it to be true"; and Nehushta told
+him all from the beginning to the end, producing to his sight the
+tokens which she had taken from the breast of her mistress, and
+repeating her last message to him word for word. When she had
+finished, Ithiel turned away and mourned a while. Then, speaking
+aloud, he put up a prayer to God for guidance--for without prayer
+these people would not enter upon anything, however simple--and came
+back to Nehushta, who stood by the oxen.
+
+"Good and faithful woman," he said, "who it would seem are not fickle
+and light-hearted, or worse, like the multitude of your sex--perchance
+because your dark skin shields you from their temptations--you have
+set me in a cleft stick, and there I am held fast. Know that the rule
+of my order is that we should have naught to do with females, young or
+old; therefore how can I receive you or the child?"
+
+"Of the rules of your order, sir, I know nothing," answered Nehushta
+sharply, since the words about the colour of her skin had not pleased
+her; "but of the rules of nature I do know, and something of the rules
+of God also, for, like my mistress and this infant, I am a Christian.
+These tell me, all of them, that to cast out an orphan child who is of
+your own blood, and whom a cruel fortune has thus brought to your
+door, would be an evil act, and one for which you must answer to Him
+who is above the rules of any order."
+
+"I may not wrangle, especially with a woman," replied Ithiel, who
+seemed ill at ease; "but if my first words are true, this is true
+also, that those same rules enjoin upon us hospitality, and above all,
+that we must not turn away the helpless or the destitute."
+
+"Clearly, then, sir, least of any must you turn away this child whose
+blood is your blood, and those dead mother sent her to you, that she
+might not fall into the power of a grandfather who has dealt so
+cruelly with those he should have cherished, to be brought up among
+Zealots as a Jew and taught to make offering of living things, and be
+anointed with the oil and blood of sacrifice."
+
+"No, no, the thought is horrible," answered Ithiel, holding up his
+hands. "It is better, far better that she should be a Christian than
+one of that fanatic and blood-spilling faith." This he said, because
+among the Essenes the use of oil was held to be unclean. Also above
+all things, they loathed the offering of life in sacrifice to God;
+who, although they did not acknowledge Christ--perhaps because He was
+never preached to them, who would listen to no new religion--practised
+the most of His doctrines with the greatest strictness.
+
+"The matter is too hard for me," he went on. "I must lay it before a
+full Court of the hundred curators, and what they decide, that will be
+done. Still, this is our rule: to assist those who need and to show
+mercy, to accord succour to such as deserve it, and to give food to
+those in distress. Therefore, whatever the Court, which it will take
+three days to summon, may decide, in the meanwhile I have the right to
+give you, and those with you, shelter and provision in the guest-
+house. As it chances, it is situated in that part of the village where
+dwell the lowest of our brethren, who are permitted to marry, so there
+you will find company of your own sex."
+
+"I shall be glad of it," answered Nehushta drily. "Also I should call
+them the highest of the brethren, since marriage is a law of God,
+which God the Father has instituted, and God the Son has blessed."
+
+"I may not wrangle, I may not wrangle," replied Ithiel, declining the
+encounter; "but certainly, that is a lovely babe. Look. Its eyes are
+open and they are beautiful as flowers"; and again he bent down and
+kissed the child, then added with a groan of remorse, "Alas! sinner
+that I am, I am defiled; I must purify myself and do penance."
+
+"Why?" asked Nehushta shortly.
+
+"For two reasons: I have touched your dress, and I have given way to
+earthly passion and embraced a child--twice. Therefore, according to
+our rule, I am defiled."
+
+Then Nehushta could bear it no more.
+
+"Defiled! you puppet of a foolish rule! It is the sweet babe that is
+defiled! Look, you have fouled its garments with your grimy hand and
+made it weep by pricking it with your beard. Would that your holy rule
+taught you how to handle children and to respect honest women who are
+their mothers, without whom there would be no Essenes."
+
+"I may not wrangle," said Ithiel, nervously; for now woman was
+appearing before him in a new light; not as an artful and a fickle,
+but as an angry creature, reckless of tongue and not easy to be
+answered. "These matters are for the decision of the curators. Have I
+not told you so? Come, let us be going. I will drive the oxen,
+although it is not time to loose them from the plough, and do you and
+your companion walk at a distance behind me. No, not behind--in front,
+that I may see that you do not drop the babe, or suffer it to come to
+any harm. Truly it is sweet to look at, and, may God forgive me, I do
+not like to lose sight of its face, which, it seems to me, resembles
+that of my sister when she was also in arms."
+
+"Drop the babe!" began Nehushta; then understanding that this victim
+of a rule already loved it dearly, and would suffer much before he
+parted with it, pitying his weakness, she said only, "Be careful that
+you do not frighten it with your great oxen, for you men who scorn
+women have much to learn."
+
+Then, accompanied by the nurse, she stalked ahead in silence, while
+Ithiel followed after at a distance, leading the cattle by the hide
+loops about their horns, lest in their curiosity or eagerness to get
+home, they should do some mischief to the infant or wake it from its
+slumbers. In this way they proceeded to the lower part of the village,
+till they came to a good house--empty as it chanced--where guests were
+accommodated in the best fashion that this kind and homely folk could
+afford. Here a woman was summoned, the wife of one of the lower order
+of the Essenes, to whom Ithiel spoke, holding his hand before his
+eyes, as though she were not good to look at. To her, from a distance,
+he explained the case, bidding her to provide all things needful, and
+to send a man to bring in the husband of the nurse with the beasts of
+burden, and attend to his wants and theirs. Then, warning Nehushta to
+be very careful of the infant and not to expose it to the sun, he
+departed to report the matter to the curators, and to summon the great
+Court.
+
+"Are all of them like this?" asked Nehushta of the woman,
+contemptuously.
+
+"Yes, sister," she answered, "fools, every one. Why, of my own husband
+I see little; and although, being married, he ranks but low among
+them, the man is forever telling me of the faults of our sex, and how
+they are a snare set for the feet of the righteous, and given to the
+leading of these same righteous astray, especially if they be not
+their own husbands. At times I am tempted indeed to prove his words
+true. Oh! it would not be difficult for all their high talk; I have
+learned as much as that, for Nature is apt to make a mock of those who
+deny Nature, and there is no parchment rule that a woman cannot bring
+to nothing. Yet, since they mean well, laugh at them and let them be,
+say I. And now come into the house, which is good, although did women
+manage it, it would be better."
+
+So Nehushta went into that house with the nurse and her husband, and
+there for several days dwelt in great comfort. Indeed, there was
+nothing that she or the child, or those with them, could want which
+was not provided in plenty. Messages reached her even, through the
+woman, to ask if she would wish the rooms altered in any way, and when
+she said that there was not light enough in that in which the child
+slept, some of the elders of the Essenes arrived and pierced a new
+window in the wall, working very hard to finish the task before
+sunset. Also even the husband of the nurse was not allowed to attend
+to his own beasts, which were groomed and fed for him, till at length
+he grew so weary of doing nothing, that on the third day he went out
+to plough with the Essenes and worked in the fields till dark.
+
+It was on the fourth morning that the full Court gathered in the great
+meeting-house, and Nehushta was summoned to appear before it, bringing
+the babe with her. Thither she went accordingly, to find the place
+filled with a hundred grave and reverend men, all clad in robes of the
+purest white. In the lower part of that large chamber she sat alone
+upon a chair, while before her upon benches ranged one above the
+other, so that all could see, were gathered the hundred curators.
+
+It seemed that Ithiel had already set out the case, since the
+President at once began to question her on various points of her
+story, all of which she was able to explain to the satisfaction of the
+Court. Then they debated the matter among themselves, some of them
+arguing that as the child was a female, as well as its nurse, neither
+of them could properly be admitted to the care of the community,
+especially as both were of the Christian faith, and it was stipulated
+that in this faith they should remain. Others answered that
+hospitality was their first duty, and that he would be weak indeed who
+was led aside from their rule by a Libyan woman of middle age and an
+infant of a few months. Further, that the Christians were a good
+people, and that there was much in their doctrines which tallied with
+their own. Next, one made a strange objection--namely, that if they
+adopted this child they would learn to love it too much, who should
+love God and their order only. To this another answered, Nay, they
+should love all mankind, and especially the helpless.
+
+"Mankind, not womankind," was the reply; "for this infant will grow
+into a woman."
+
+Now they desired Nehushta to retire that they might take the votes.
+Before she went, however, holding up the child that all could see it
+as it lay smiling in her arms, she implored them not to reject the
+prayer of a dead woman, and so deprive this infant of the care of the
+relative whom that departed lady had appointed to be its guardian, and
+of the guidance and directing wisdom of their holy Order. Lastly, she
+reminded them that if they thrust her out, she must carry the infant
+to its grandfather, who, if he received it at all, would certainly
+bring it up in the Jewish faith, and thereby, perhaps, cause it to
+lose its soul, the weight of which sin would be upon their heads.
+
+After this Nehushta was led away to another chamber and remained there
+a long while, till at length she was brought back again by one of the
+curators. On entering the great hall her eyes sought the face of
+Ithiel, who had not been allowed to speak, since the matter having to
+do with a great-niece of his own, it was held that his judgment might
+be warped. Seeing that he smiled, and evidently was well pleased, she
+knew her cause was won.
+
+"Woman," said the President, "by a great majority of this Court we
+have come to an irrevocable decision upon the matter that has been
+laid before it by our brother Ithiel. It is, for reasons which I need
+not explain, that on this point our rule may be stretched so far as to
+admit the child Miriam to our care, even though it be of the female
+sex, which care is to endure until she comes to a full age of eighteen
+years, when she must depart from among us. During this time no attempt
+will be made to turn her from her parents' faith in which she has been
+baptised. A house will be given you to live in, and you will be
+supplied with the best we have for the use of our ward Miriam and
+yourself. Twice a week a deputation of the curators will visit the
+house, and stay there for an hour to see that the health of the infant
+is good, and that you are doing your duty by it, in which, if you
+fail, you will be removed. It is prayed that you will not talk to
+these curators on matters which do not concern the child. When she
+grows old enough the maid Miriam will be admitted to our gatherings,
+and instructed also by the most learned amongst us in all proper
+matters of letters and philosophy, on which occasions you will sit at
+a distance and not interfere unless your care is required.
+
+"Now, that every one may know our decision, we will escort you back to
+your house, and to show that we have taken the infant under our care,
+our brother Ithiel will carry it while you walk behind and give him
+such instruction in this matter as may be needful."
+
+Accordingly a great procession was formed, headed by the President and
+ended by the priests. In the centre of the line marched Ithiel bearing
+the babe Miriam, to his evident delight, and Nehushta, who instructed
+him so vigorously that at length he grew confused and nearly let it
+fall. Thereon, setting this detail of the judgment at defiance,
+Nehushta snatched it from his arms, calling him a clumsy and ignorant
+clown only fit to handle an ox. To this Ithiel made no answer, nor was
+he at all wroth, but finished the journey walking behind her and
+smiling foolishly.
+
+Thus was the child Miriam, who afterwards came to be called the Queen
+of the Essenes, royally escorted to her home. But little did these
+good men know that it was not a house which they were giving her, but
+a throne, built of the pure gold of their own gentle hearts.
+
+
+
+                              CHAPTER VI
+
+                                CALEB
+
+It may be wondered whether any girl who was ever born into the world
+could boast a stranger or a happier upbringing than Miriam. She was,
+it is true, motherless, but by way of compensation Fate endowed her
+with several hundred fathers, each of whom loved her as the apple of
+his eye. She did not call them "Father" indeed, a term which under the
+circumstances they thought incorrect. To her, one and all, they went
+by the designation of "Uncle," with their name added if she happened
+to know it, if not as Uncle simply. It cannot be said, however, that
+Miriam brought peace to the community of the Essenes. Indeed, before
+she had done with them she rent it with deep and abiding jealousies,
+to the intense but secret delight of Nehushta, who, although she
+became a person of great importance among them as the one who had
+immediate charge of their jewel, could never forgive them certain of
+their doctrines or their habit of persistent interference.
+
+The domiciliary visits which took place twice a week, and, by special
+subsequent resolution passed in full Court, on the Sabbath also, were,
+to begin with, the subject of much covert bitterness. At first a
+standing committee was appointed to make these visits, of whom Ithiel
+was one. Before two years had gone by, however, much murmuring arose
+in the community upon this matter. It was pointed out in language that
+became vehement--for an Essene--that so much power should not be left
+in the hands of one fixed set of individuals, who might become
+careless or prejudiced, or, worst of all, neglectful of the welfare of
+the child who was the guest not of them only, but of the whole order.
+It was demanded, therefore, that this committee should change
+automatically every month, so that all might serve upon it in turn,
+Ithiel, as the blood-relation of Miriam, remaining its only permanent
+member. This proposal was opposed by the committee, but as no one else
+would vote for them the desired alteration was made. Further, to be
+removed temporarily, or for good, from its roster was thenceforth
+recognised as one of the punishments of the order.
+
+Indeed, the absurdities to which its existence gave rise, especially
+as the girl grew in years, sweetness and beauty, cannot be numbered.
+Thus, every visiting member must wash his whole person and clothe
+himself in clean garments before he was allowed to approach the child,
+"lest he should convey to her any sickness, or impure substance, or
+odour." Then there was much trouble because some members were
+discovered to be ingratiating themselves with Miriam by secretly
+presenting her with gifts of playthings, some of them of great beauty,
+which they fashioned from wood, shells, or even hard stones. Moreover,
+they purveyed articles of food such as they found the child loved; and
+this it was that led to their detection, for, having eaten of them,
+she was ill. Thereupon Nehushta, enraged, disclosed the whole plot,
+using the most violent language, and, amidst murmurs of "Shame on
+them!" designating the offenders by name. They were removed from their
+office, and it was decreed that henceforth any gifts made to the child
+must be offered to her by the committee as a whole, and not by a
+single individual, and handed over in their name by Ithiel, her uncle.
+
+Once, when she was seven years old, and the idol of every brother
+among the Essenes, Miriam fell ill with a kind of fever which often
+strikes children in the neighbourhood of Jericho and the Dead Sea.
+Among the brethren were several skilful and famous physicians, who
+attended her night and day. But still the fever could not be abated,
+and at last, with tears, they announced that they feared for the
+child's life. Then indeed there was lamentation among the Essenes. For
+three days and three nights did they wrestle in constant prayer to God
+that she might be spared, many of them touching nothing but water
+during all that time. Moreover, they sat about at a distance from her
+house, praying and seeking tidings. If it was bad they beat their
+breasts, if good they gave thanks. Never was the sickbed of a monarch
+watched with more care or devotion than that of this little orphan,
+and never was a recovery--for at length she did recover--received with
+greater thankfulness and joy.
+
+This was the truth. These pure and simple men, in obedience to the
+strict rule they had adopted, were cut off from all the affections of
+life. Yet, the foundation-stone of their doctrine being Love, they who
+were human must love something, so they loved this child whom they
+looked upon as their ward, and who, as there was none other of her age
+and sex in their community, had no rival in their hearts. She was the
+one joy of their laborious and ascetic hours; she represented all the
+sweetness and youth of this self-renewing world, which to them was so
+grey and sapless. Moreover, she was a lovely maid, who, wherever she
+had been placed, would have bound all to her.
+
+The years went by and the time came when, in obedience to the first
+decree, Miriam must be educated. Long were the discussions which
+ensued among the curators of the Essenes. At length three of the most
+learned of their body were appointed to this task, and the teaching
+began. As it chanced, Miriam proved an apt pupil, for her memory was
+good, and she had a great desire to learn many things, more especially
+history and languages, and all that has to do with nature. One of her
+tutors was an Egyptian, who, brought up in the priests' college at
+Thebes, when on a journey to Judæa had fallen sick near Jericho, been
+nursed by the Essenes and converted to their doctrine. From him Miriam
+learnt much of their ancient civilisation, and even of the inner
+mysteries of the Egyptian religion, and of its high and secret
+interpretations which were known only to the priests. The second,
+Theophilus by name, was a Greek who had visited Rome, and he taught
+her the tongues and literature of those countries. The third, all his
+life long had studied beasts and birds and insects, and the workings
+of nature, and the stars and their movements, in which things he
+instructed her day by day, taking her abroad with him that examples of
+each of them might be before her eyes.
+
+Lastly, when she grew older, there was a fourth master, who was an
+artist. He taught Miriam how to model animals, and even men, in the
+clay of the Jordan, and how to carve them out in marble, and something
+of the use of pigments. Also this man, who was very clever, had a
+knowledge of singing and instrumental music, which he imparted to her
+in her odd hours. Thus it came about that Miriam grew learned and well
+acquainted with many matters of which most girls of her day and years
+had never even heard. Nor did she lack knowledge of the things of her
+own faith, though in these the Essenes did not instruct her further
+than its doctrines tallied with their own. Of the rest, Nehushta told
+her something; moreover, on several occasions Christian travellers or
+preachers visited this country to address the Essenes or the other
+Jews who dwelt there. When they learned her case, these showed
+themselves very eager to inform her of the Christian doctrine. Among
+them was one old man who had heard the preaching of Jesus Christ, and
+been present at His Crucifixion, to all of which histories the girl
+listened with eagerness, remembering them to the last hour of her
+life.
+
+Further, and perhaps this was the best part of her education, she
+lived in the daily company of Nature. But a mile or two away spread
+the Dead Sea, and along its melancholy and lifeless shores, fringed
+with the white trunks of trees that had been brought down by Jordan,
+she would often walk. Before her day by day loomed the mountains of
+Moab, while behind her were the fantastic and mysterious sand-hills of
+the desert, backed again by other mountains and that grey, tormented
+country which stretches between Jericho and Jerusalem. Quite near at
+hand also ran the broad and muddy Jordan, whose fertile banks were
+clothed in spring with the most delicious greenery and haunted by
+kingfishers, cranes, wildfowl, and many other birds. About these
+banks, too, stretching into the desert land beyond, the flowers of the
+field grew by myriads, at different periods of the year carpeting the
+whole earth with various colours, brilliant as are those of the
+rainbow. These it was her delight to gather, and even to cultivate in
+the garden of her house.
+
+Thus wisdom, earthly and divine, was gathered in Miriam's heart till
+very soon its light began to shine through her eyes and face, making
+them ever more tender and beautiful. Nor did she lack charm and grace
+of person. From the first, in stature she was small and delicate, pale
+also in complexion; but her dark hair was plenteous and curling, and
+her eyes were large and of a deep and tender blue. Her hands and feet
+were very slender, and her every gesture quick and agile as that of a
+bird. Thus she grew up loving all things and beloved by all; for even
+the flowers which she tended and the creatures that she fed, seemed in
+her to find a friend.
+
+Now of so much learning and all this system of solemn ordered hours,
+Nehushta did not approve. For a while she bore with it, but when
+Miriam was about eleven years of age, she spoke her mind to the
+Committee and through them to the governing Court of Curators.
+
+Was it right that a child should be brought up thus, she asked, and
+turned into a grave old woman whilst, quite heedless of such things,
+others of her age were occupied with youthful games? The end of it
+might be that her brain would break and she would die or become crazy,
+and then what good would so much wisdom do her? It was necessary that
+she should have more leisure and other children with whom she could
+associate.
+
+"White-bearded hermits," she added with point, "were not suitable as
+sole companions to a little maid."
+
+Thereon followed much debate and consultation with the doctors, who
+agreed that friends of her own years should be found for the child.
+This, however, proved difficult, since among these Essenes were no
+other girls. Therefore those friends must be of the male sex. Here too
+were difficulties, as at that time, of the lads adopted by this
+particular community which they were destined to join in after days,
+there was but one of equal birth with Miriam. Now so far as concerned
+their own order the Essenes thought little of social distinctions, or
+even of the differences of blood and race. But Miriam was not of their
+order; she was their guest, no more, to whom they stood in the place
+of parents, and who would go from them out into the great world.
+Therefore, notwithstanding their childlike simplicity, being, many of
+them, men experienced in life, they did not think it right that she
+should mix with those of lower breeding.
+
+This one lad, Caleb by name, was born in the same year as Miriam, when
+Cuspius Fadus became governor on the death of Agrippa. His father was
+Jew of very high rank named Hilliel, who, although he sided from time
+to time with the Roman party, was killed by them, or perished among
+the twenty thousand who were trampled to death at the Feast of the
+Passover at Jerusalem, when Cumanus, the Procurator, ordered his
+soldiers to attack the people. Thereon the Zealots, who considered him
+a traitor, managed to get possession of all his property, so that his
+son Caleb, whose mother was dead, was brought in a destitute condition
+by one of her friends to Jericho. There, as she could not dispose of
+him otherwise, he was given over to the Essenes, to be educated in
+their doctrine, and, should he wish it, to enter their order when he
+reached full age. This lad, it was now decreed, should become the
+playmate of Miriam, a decision that pleased both of them very well.
+
+Caleb was a handsome child with quick, dark eyes that watched
+everything without seeming to watch, and black hair which curled upon
+his shoulders. He was clever also and brave; but though he did his
+best to control his temper, by nature very passionate and unforgiving.
+Moreover, that which he desired he would have, if by any means it
+could be obtained, and was faithful in his loves as in his hates. Of
+these hates Nehushta was one. With all the skill of a Libyan, whose
+only book is that of Nature and men's faces, she read the boy's heart
+at once and said openly that he might come to be the first in any
+cause--if he did not betray it--and that when God mixed his blood of
+the best, lest Cæsar should find a rival He left out the salt of
+honesty and filled up the cup with the wine of passion. When these
+sayings were repeated to Caleb by Miriam, who thought them to be a
+jest fit to tease her playmate with, he did not fly into one of his
+tempers, as she had hoped, but only screwed up his eyelids after his
+fashion in certain moods, and looked black as the rain-storm above
+Mount Nebo.
+
+"Did you hear, Caleb?" asked Miriam, somewhat disappointed.
+
+"Oh, yes! Lady Miriam," for so he had been ordered to call her. "I
+heard. Do you tell that old black woman that I will lead more causes
+than she ever thought of, for I mean to be the first everywhere. Also
+that whatever God left out of my cup, at least He mixed it with a good
+memory."
+
+When Nehushta heard this, she laughed and said that it was true
+enough, only he that tried to climb several ladders at once generally
+fell to the ground, and that when a head had said good-bye to its
+shoulders, the best of memories got lost between the two.
+
+Miriam liked Caleb, but she never loved him as she did the old men,
+her uncles, or Nehushta, who to her was more than all. Perhaps this
+may have been because he never grew angry with her whatever she might
+say or do, never even spoke to her roughly, but always waited on her
+pleasure and watched for her wish. Still, of all companions he was the
+best. If Miriam desired to walk by the Dead Sea, he would desire the
+same. If she wanted to go fishing in the Jordan, he would make ready
+the baits or net, and take the fishes off the hook--a thing she hated.
+If she sought a rare flower, Caleb would hunt it out for days,
+although she knew well that in himself he did not care for flowers,
+and when he had found it, would mark the spot and lead her there in
+triumph. Also there was this about him, as she was soon quick enough
+to learn: he worshipped her. Whatever else might be false, that note
+in his nature rang true. If one child could love another, then Caleb
+loved Miriam, first with the love of children, then as a man loves a
+woman. Only--and this was the sorrow of it--Miriam never loved Caleb.
+Had she done so both their stories would have been very different. To
+her he was a clever companion and no more.
+
+What made the thing more strange was that he loved no one else,
+except, mayhap, himself. In this way and in that the lad soon came to
+learn his own history, which was sad enough, with the result that if
+he hated the Romans who had invaded the country and trampled it
+beneath their heel, still more did he hate those of the Jews who
+looked upon his father as their enemy and had stolen all the lands and
+goods that were his by right. As for the Essenes who reared and
+protected him, so soon as he came to an age when he could weigh such
+matters, he held them in contempt, and because of their continual
+habit of bathing themselves and purifying their garments, called them
+the company of washer-women. On him their doctrines left but a shallow
+mark. He thought, as he explained to Miriam, that people who were in
+the world should take the world as they found it, without dreaming
+ceaselessly of another world to which, as yet, they did not belong; a
+sentiment that to some extent Nehushta shared.
+
+Wishing, with the zeal of the young, to make a convert, Miriam
+preached to him the doctrine of Christianity, but without success. By
+blood Caleb was a Jew of the Jews, and could not understand or admire
+a God who would consent to be trodden under foot and crucified. The
+Messiah he desired to follow must be a great conqueror, one who would
+overthrow the Cæsars and take the throne of Cæsar, not a humble
+creature with his mouth full of maxims. Like the majority of his own,
+and, indeed, of every generation, to the last day of his life, Caleb
+was unable to divine that mind is greater than matter, while spirit is
+greater than mind; and that in the end, by many slow advances and
+after many disasters seemingly irremediable, spirituality will conquer
+all. He looked to a sword flashing from thrones, not to the word of
+truth spoken by lowly lips in humble streets or upon the flanks of
+deserts, trusting to the winds of Grace to bear it into the hearts of
+men and thus regenerate their souls.
+
+Such was Caleb, and these things are said of him here because the
+child is father to the man.
+
+Swiftly the years went by. There were tumults in Judæa and massacres
+in Jerusalem. False prophets such as Theudas, who pretended that he
+could divide Jordan, attracted thousands to their tinsel standards, to
+be hewn down, poor folk! by the Roman legions. Cæsars rose and fell;
+the great Temple was at length almost completed in its glory, and many
+events happened which are remembered even to this day.
+
+But in the little village of the Essenes by the grey shores of the
+Dead Sea, nothing seemed to change, except that now and again an aged
+brother died, and now and again a new brother was admitted. They rose
+before daylight and offered their invocation to the sun; they went out
+to toil in the fields and sowed their crops, to reap them in due
+season, thankful if they were good, still thankful if they were bad.
+They washed, they prayed, they mourned over the wickedness of the
+world, and wove themselves white garments emblematic of a better.
+Also, although of this Miriam knew nothing, they held higher and more
+secret services wherein they invoked the presence of their "angels,"
+and by arts of divination that were known to them, foretold the
+future, an exercise which brought them little joy. But as yet, however
+evil might be the omens, none came to molest their peaceful life,
+which ran quietly towards the great catastrophe as often deep waters
+swirl to the lip of a precipice.
+
+At length when Miriam was seventeen years of age, the first stroke of
+trouble fell upon them.
+
+From time to time the high priests at Jerusalem, who hated the Essenes
+as heretics, had made demands upon them that they should pay tithe for
+the support of the sacrifices in the Temple. This they refused to do,
+since all sacrifices were hateful to them. So things went on until the
+day of the high priest Ananos, who sent armed men to the village of
+the Essenes to take the tithes. These were refused to them, whereon
+they broke open the granary and helped themselves, destroying a great
+deal which they could not carry away. As it chanced, on that day
+Miriam, accompanied by Nehushta, had visited Jericho. Returning in the
+afternoon they passed through a certain torrent bed in which were many
+rocks, and among them thickets of thorn trees. Here they were met by
+Caleb, now a noble-looking youth very strong and active, who carried a
+bow in his hand and on his back a sheath of six arrows.
+
+"Lady Miriam," he said, "well met. I have come to seek you, and to
+warn you not to return by the road to-day, since on it you will meet
+presently those thieves sent by the high priest to plunder the stores
+of the Order, who, perhaps, will offer you insult or mischief, for
+they are drunk with wine. Look, one of them has struck me," and he
+pointed to a bruise upon his shoulder and scowled.
+
+"What then shall we do?" asked Miriam. "Go back to Jericho?"
+
+"Nay, for there they will come too. Follow up this gully till you
+reach the footpath a mile away, and by it walk to the village; so you
+will miss these robbers."
+
+"That is a good plan," said Nehushta. "Come, lady."
+
+"Whither are you going, Caleb?" asked Miriam, lingering, since she saw
+that he did not mean to accompany them.
+
+"I? Oh, I shall hide among the rocks near by till the men are passed,
+and then go to seek that hyena which has been worrying the sheep. I
+have tracked him down and may catch him as he comes from his hole at
+sunset. That is why I have brought my bow and arrows."
+
+"Come," broke in Nehushta impatiently, "come. The lad well knows how
+to guard himself."
+
+"Be careful, Caleb, that you get no hurt from the hyena," said Miriam,
+doubtfully, as Nehushta seized her by the wrist and dragged her away.
+"It is strange," she added as they went, "that Caleb should choose
+this evening to go hunting."
+
+"Unless I mistake, it is a human hyena whom he hunts," answered
+Nehushta shortly. "One of those men struck him, and he desires to wash
+the wound with his blood."
+
+"Oh, surely not! Nou. That would be taking vengeance, and revenge is
+evil."
+
+Nehushta shrugged her shoulders. "Caleb may think otherwise, as I do
+at times. Wait, and we shall see."
+
+As it chanced, they did see something. The footpath by which they
+returned to the village ran over a high ridge of ground, and from its
+crest, although they were a mile or more away, in that clear desert
+air they could easily discern the line of the high priest's servants
+straggling along, driving before them a score or so of mules, laden
+with wine and other produce which they had stolen from the stores.
+Presently the company of them descended into that gully along which
+the road ran, whence a minute or two later rose a sound of distant
+shouting. Then they appeared on the further side, running, or riding
+their beasts hither and thither, as though in search of some one,
+while four of them carried between them a man who seemed to be hurt,
+or dead.
+
+"I think that Caleb has shot his hyena," said Nehushta meaningly; "but
+I have seen nothing, and if you are wise, you will say nothing. I do
+not like Caleb, but I hate these Jewish thieves, and it is not for you
+to bring your friend into trouble."
+
+Miriam looked frightened but nodded her head, and no more was said of
+the matter.
+
+That evening, as Miriam and Nehushta stood at the door of their house
+in the cool, by the light of the full moon they saw Caleb advancing
+towards them down the road, a sight that made Miriam glad at heart,
+for she feared lest he might have come into trouble. Catching sight of
+them, he asked permission to enter through the door, which he closed
+behind them, so that now they stood in the little garden within the
+wall.
+
+"Well," said Nehushta, "I see that you had a shot at your hyena; did
+you kill it?"
+
+"How do you know that?" he asked, looking at her suspiciously.
+
+"A strange question to put to a Libyan woman who was brought up among
+bowmen," she replied. "You had six arrows in your quiver when we met
+you, and now I count but five. Also your bow was newly waxed; and
+look, the wax is rubbed where the shaft lay."
+
+"I shot at the beast, and, as I think, hit it. At least, I could not
+find the arrow again, although I searched long."
+
+"Doubtless. You do not often miss. You have a good eye and a steady
+hand. Well, the loss of a shaft will not matter, since I noticed,
+also, that this one was differently barbed from the others, and double
+feathered; a true Roman war-shaft, such as they do not make here. If
+any find your wounded beast you will not get its hide, since it is
+known that you do not use such arrows." Then, with a smile that was
+full of meaning, Nehushta turned and entered the house, leaving him
+staring after her, half in wrath and half in wonder at her wit.
+
+"What does she mean?" he asked Miriam, but in the voice of one who
+speaks to himself.
+
+"She thinks that you shot at a man, not at a beast," replied Miriam;
+"but I know well that you could not have done this, since that would
+be against the rule of the Essenes."
+
+"Even the rule of the Essenes permits a man to protect himself and his
+property from thieves," he answered sulkily.
+
+"Yes, to protect himself if he is attacked, and his property--if he
+has any. But neither that faith nor mine permits him to avenge a
+blow."
+
+"I was one against many," he answered boldly. "My life was on the
+hazard: it was no coward's act."
+
+"Were there, then, a troop of these hyenas?" asked Miriam, innocently.
+"I thought you said it was a solitary beast that took the sheep."
+
+"It was a whole company of beasts who took the wine, and smote those
+in charge of it as though they were street dogs."
+
+"Hyenas that took wine like the tame ape whom the boys make drunken
+over yonder----"
+
+"Why do you mock me," broke in Caleb, "who must know the truth? Or if
+you do not know it, here it is. That thief beat me with his staff, and
+called me the son of a dog, and I swore that I would pay him back. Pay
+him back I did, for the head of that shaft which Nehushta noted,
+stands out a span beyond his neck. They never saw who shot it; they
+never saw me at all, who thought at first that the man had fallen from
+his horse. By the time they knew the truth I was away where they could
+not follow. Now go and tell the story if you will, or let Nehushta,
+who hates me, tell it, and give me over to be tortured by the servants
+of the high priest, or crucified as a murderer by the Romans."
+
+"Neither Nehushta nor I saw this deed done, nor shall we bear witness
+against you, Caleb, or judge you, who doubtless were provoked by
+violent and lawless men. Yet, Caleb, you told me that you came out to
+warn us, and it grieves me to learn that the true wish of your heart
+was to take the life of a man."
+
+"It is false," he answered angrily; "I said that I came to warn you,
+and afterwards to kill a hyena. To make you safe--that was my first
+thought, and until you were safe my enemy was safe also. Miriam, you
+know it well."
+
+"Why should I know it? To you, Caleb, I think revenge is more than
+friendship."
+
+"Perhaps; for I have few friends who am a penniless orphan brought up
+by charity. But, Miriam, to me revenge is not more than--love."
+
+"Love," she stammered, turning crimson to her hair and stepping back a
+pace; "what do you mean, Caleb?"
+
+"What I say, neither more nor less," he answered sullenly. "As I have
+worked one crime to-day, I may as well work two, and dare to tell the
+lady Miriam, the Queen of the Essenes, that I love her, though she
+loves not me--as yet."
+
+"This is madness," faltered Miriam.
+
+"Mayhap, but it is a madness which began when first I saw you--that
+was soon after we learned to speak--a madness which will continue
+until I cease to see you, and that shall be soon before I grow silent
+forever. Listen, Miriam, and do not think my words only those of a
+foolish boy, for all my life shall prove them. This love of mine is a
+thing with which you must reckon. You love me not--therefore, even had
+I the power, I would not force myself upon you against your will; only
+I warn you, learn to love no other man, for then it shall go ill
+either with him or with me. By this I swear it," and, snatching her to
+him, Caleb kissed her on the forehead, then let her go, saying, "Fear
+not. It is the first and last time, except by your own will. Or if you
+fear, tell the story to the Court of the Essenes, and--to Nehushta,
+who will right your wrongs."
+
+"Caleb," she gasped, stamping her foot upon the ground in anger,
+"Caleb, you are more wicked than I dreamed, and," she added, as though
+to herself--"and greater!"
+
+"Yes," he answered, as he turned to go, "I think that you are right. I
+am more wicked than you dreamed and--greater. Also, Miriam, I love you
+as you will never be loved again. Farewell!"
+
+
+
+                             CHAPTER VII
+
+                                MARCUS
+
+That night those of the curators who were engaged in prayer and
+fasting were disturbed by the return of an officer of those Jews that
+had robbed them, who complained violently that a man of his company
+had been murdered by one of the Essenes. They asked how and when, and
+were told that the man had been shot down with an arrow, in a gully
+upon the road to Jericho, by a person unknown. They replied that
+robbers sometimes met with robbers, and asked to see the arrow, which
+proved to be of a Roman make, such as these men carried in their own
+quivers. This the Essenes pointed out, and at length, growing angry at
+the unreasonableness of a complaint made by persons of the worst
+character, drove him and his escort from their doors, bidding them
+take their story to the high priest Ananos, with the goods which they
+had stolen, or, if they preferred it, to that still greater thief, the
+Roman procurator, Albinus.
+
+This they did not neglect to do, with the result that presently the
+Essenes were commanded to send some of their head men to appear before
+Albinus to answer the charges laid against them. Accordingly they
+dispatched Ithiel and two others, who were kept waiting three months
+at Jerusalem before they could even obtain a hearing. At length the
+cause came on, and after some few minutes of talk was adjourned, being
+but a petty matter. That same evening Ithiel was informed by an
+intermediary that if his Order would pay a certain large sum of money
+to Albinus, nothing more would be heard of the question. This the
+Essenes refused to do, as it was against their principles, saying that
+they demanded nothing but justice, which they were not prepared to
+buy. So they spoke, being ignorant that one of their neophytes, Caleb,
+had in fact aimed the fatal arrow.
+
+Then Albinus, wearying of the business and finding that there was no
+profit to be made out of the Essenes, commanded them to be gone,
+saying that he would send an officer to make inquiry on the spot.
+
+Another two months went by, and at length this officer arrived,
+attended by an escort of twenty soldiers.
+
+As it chanced, on a certain morning in the winter season, Miriam with
+Nehushta was walking on the Jericho road, when suddenly they saw
+approaching towards them this little body of armed men. Perceiving
+that they were Romans, they turned out of the path to hide themselves
+among the thorns of the desert. Thereon he who seemed to be the
+officer spurred his horse forward to intercept them.
+
+"Do not run--stand still," said Nehushta to Miriam, "and show no sign
+of fear."
+
+So Miriam halted and began to gather a few autumn flowers that still
+bloomed among the bushes, till the shadow of the officer fell upon her
+--that shadow in which she was destined to walk all her life-days.
+
+"Lady," said a pleasant voice in Greek, spoken with a somewhat foreign
+accent--"lady, pardon, and I pray you, do not be alarmed. I am a
+stranger to this part of the country, which I visit on official
+business. Will you of your kindness direct me to the village of a
+people called Essenes, who live somewhere in this desert?"
+
+"Oh, sir!" answered Miriam, "do you, who come with Roman soldiers,
+mean them any harm?"
+
+"Not I. But why do you ask?"
+
+"Because, sir, I am of their community."
+
+The officer stared at her--this beautiful, blue-eyed, white-skinned,
+delicate-featured girl, whose high blood proclaimed itself in every
+tone and gesture.
+
+"You, lady, of the community of the Essenes! Surely then those priests
+in Jerusalem lie more deeply than I thought. They told me that the
+Essenes were old ascetics who worship Apollo, and could not bear so
+much as the sight of a woman. And now you say you are an Essene--you,
+by Bacchus! you!" and he looked at her with an admiration which,
+although there was nothing brutal or even rude about it, was amusingly
+undisguised.
+
+"I am their guest," she said.
+
+"Their guest? Why, this is stranger still. If these spiritual outlaws
+--the word is that old high priest's, not mine--share their bread and
+water with such guests, my sojourn among them will be happier than I
+thought."
+
+"They brought me up, I am their ward," Miriam explained again.
+
+"In truth, my opinion of the Essenes rises, and I am convinced that
+those priests slandered them. If they can shape so sweet a lady,
+surely they must themselves be good and gentle"; and he bowed gravely,
+perhaps to mark the compliment.
+
+"Sir, they are both good and gentle," answered Miriam; "but of this
+you will be able to judge for yourself very shortly, seeing that they
+live near at hand. If you will follow us over yonder rise we will show
+you their village, whither we go."
+
+"By your leave, I will accompany you," he said, dismounting before she
+could answer; then added, "Pardon me for one moment--I must give some
+orders," and he called to a soldier, who, with his companions, had
+halted at a little distance.
+
+The man advanced saluting, and, turning aside, his captain began to
+talk with him, so that now, for the first time, Miriam could study his
+face. He was young--not more than five or six and twenty years of age
+--of middle height, and somewhat slender, but active in movement and
+athletic in build. Upon his head, which was round and not large, in
+place of the helmet that hung at his saddle-bow, he wore a little cap,
+steel lined and padded as a protection against the sun, and beneath it
+she could see that his short, dark brown hair curled closely. Under
+the tan caused by exposure to the heat, his skin was fair, and his
+grey eyes, set rather wide apart, were quick and observant. For the
+rest, his mouth was well-shaped, though somewhat large, and the chin
+clean-shaved, prominent and determined. His air was that of a soldier
+accustomed to command, but very genial, and, when he smiled, showing
+his regular white teeth, even merry--the air of one with a kind and
+generous heart.
+
+Miriam looked at him, and in an instant was aware that she liked him
+better than any man--that is any young man--she had ever seen. This,
+however, was no great or exclusive compliment to the Roman, since of
+such acquaintances she had but few, if, indeed, Caleb was not the only
+one. However, of this she was sure, she liked him better than Caleb,
+because, even then and there, comparing them in her thoughts, this
+truth came home to her; with it, too, a certain sense of shame that
+the newcomer should be preferred to the friend of her childhood,
+although of late that friend had displeased her by showing too warm a
+friendship.
+
+Having given his instructions, the captain dismissed the orderly,
+commanding him to follow at a distance with the men. Then saying,
+"Lady, I am ready," he began to walk forward, leading his horse by the
+bridle.
+
+"You will forgive me," he added, "if I introduce myself more formally.
+I am called Marcus, the son of Emilius--a name which was known in its
+day," and he sighed, "as I hope before I have done with it, mine will
+be. At present I cannot boast that this is so, who, unless it should
+please my uncle Caius to decease and leave me the great fortune he
+squeezes out of the Spaniards--neither of which things he shows any
+present intention of doing--am but a soldier of fortune: an officer
+under the command of the excellent and most noble procurator Albinus,"
+he added sarcastically. "For the rest," he went on, "I have spent a
+year in this interesting and turbulent but somewhat arid land of
+yours, coming here from Egypt, and am now honoured with a commission
+to investigate and make report on a charge laid at the door of your
+virtuous guardians, the Essenes, of having murdered, or been privy to
+the murder of, a certain rascally Jew, who, as I understand, was sent
+with others to steal their goods. That, lady, is my style and history.
+By way of exchange, will you be pleased to tell me yours?"
+
+Miriam hesitated, not being sure whether she should enter on such
+confidences at so short a notice. Thereon, Nehushta, who was
+untroubled by doubts, and thought it politic to be quite open with
+this Roman, a man in authority, answered for her.
+
+"Lord, this maiden, whose servant I am, as I was that of her
+grandmother and mother before her----"
+
+"Surely you cannot be so old," interrupted Marcus. He made it a rule
+to be polite to all women, whatever their colour, having noticed that
+life went more easily with those who were courteous to the sex.
+
+Nehushta smiled a little as she answered--for at what age does a woman
+learn to despise a compliment?--"Lord, they both died young"; then
+repeated, "This maiden is the only child of the high-born Græco-Syrian
+of Tyre, Demas, and his noble wife, Rachel----"
+
+"I know Tyre," he interrupted. "I was quartered there till two months
+ago"; adding in a different tone, "I understand that this pair no
+longer live."
+
+"They died," said Nehushta sadly, "the father in the amphitheatre at
+Berytus by command of the first Agrippa, and the mother when her child
+was born."
+
+"In the amphitheatre at Berytus? Was he then a malefactor?"
+
+"No, sir," broke in Miriam proudly; "he was a Christian."
+
+"Oh! I understand. Well, they are ill-spoken of as enemies of the
+human race, but for my part I have had to do with several Christians
+and found them very good people, though visionary in their views."
+Here a doubt struck him and he said, "But, lady, I understand that you
+are an Essene."
+
+"Nay, sir," she replied in the same steady voice, "I also am a
+Christian, who have been protected by the Essenes."
+
+He looked at her with pity and replied, "It is a dangerous profession
+for one so young and fair."
+
+"Dangerous let it be," she said; "at least it is mine from the
+beginning to the end."
+
+Marcus bowed, perceiving that the subject was not to be pursued, and
+said to Nehushta, "Continue the story, my friend."
+
+"Lord, the father of my lady's mother is a very wealthy Jewish
+merchant of Tyre, named Benoni."
+
+"Benoni," he said, "I know him well, too well for a poor man!--a Jew
+of the Jews, a Zealot, they say. At least he hates us Romans enough to
+be one, although many is the dinner that I have eaten at his palace.
+He is the most successful trader in all Tyre, unless it be his rival
+Amram, the Phœnician, but a hard man, and as able as he is hard. Now I
+think of it, he has no living children, so why does not your lady, his
+grandchild, dwell with him rather than in this desert?"
+
+"Lord, you have answered your own question. Benoni is a Jew of the
+Jews; his granddaughter is a Christian, as I am also. Therefore when
+her mother died, I brought her here to be taken care of by her uncle
+Ithiel the Essene, and I do not think Benoni knows even that she
+lives. Lord, perhaps I have said too much; but you must soon have
+heard the story from the Essenes, and we trust to you, who chance to
+be Benoni's friend, to keep our secret from him."
+
+"You do not trust in vain; yet it seems sad that all the wealth and
+station which are hers by right should thus be wasted."
+
+"Lord, rank and station are not everything; freedom of faith and
+person are more than these. My lady lacks for nothing, and--this is
+all her story."
+
+"Not quite, friend; you have not told me her name."
+
+"Lord, it is Miriam."
+
+"Miriam, Miriam," he repeated, his slightly foreign accent dwelling
+softly on the syllables. "It is a very pretty name, befitting such
+a----" and he checked himself.
+
+By now they were on the crest of the rise, and, stopping between two
+clumps of thorn trees, Miriam broke in hastily:
+
+"See, sir, there below lies the village of the Essenes; those green
+trees to the left mark the banks of Jordan, whence we irrigate our
+fields, while that grey stretch of water to the right, surrounded by a
+wall of mountain, is the Dead Sea."
+
+"Is it so? Well, the green is pleasant in this desert, and those
+fields look well cultivated. I hope to visit them some day, for I was
+brought up in the country, and, although I am a soldier, still
+understand a farm. As for the Dead Sea, it is even more dreary than I
+expected. Tell me, lady, what is that large building yonder?"
+
+"That," she answered, "is the gathering hall of the Essenes."
+
+"And that?" he asked, pointing to a house which stood by itself.
+
+"That is my home, where Nehushta and I dwell."
+
+"I guessed as much by the pretty garden." Then he asked her other
+questions, which she answered freely enough, for Miriam, although she
+was half Jewish, had been brought up among men, and felt neither fear
+nor shame in talking with them in a friendly and open fashion, as an
+Egyptian or a Roman or a Grecian lady might have done.
+
+While they were still conversing thus, of a sudden the bushes on their
+path were pushed aside, and from between them emerged Caleb, of whom
+she had seen but little of late. He halted and looked at them.
+
+"Friend Caleb," said Miriam, "this is the Roman captain Marcus, who
+comes to visit the curators of the Order. Will you lead him and his
+soldiers to the council hall and advise my uncle Ithiel and the others
+of his coming, since it is time for us to go home?"
+
+Caleb glared at her, or rather at the stranger, with sullen fury; then
+he answered:
+
+"Romans always make their own road; they do not need a Jew to guide
+them," and once more he vanished into the scrub on the further side of
+the path.
+
+"Your friend is not civil," said Marcus, as he watched him go.
+"Indeed, he has an inhospitable air. Now, if an Essene could do such a
+thing, I should think that here is a man who might have drawn an arrow
+upon a Jewish tax-gatherer," and he looked inquiringly at Miriam.
+
+"That lad!" put in Nehushta. "Why, he never shot anything larger than
+a bird of prey."
+
+"Caleb," added Miriam in excuse, "does not like strangers."
+
+"So I see," answered Marcus; "and to be frank, lady, I do not like
+Caleb. He has an eye like a knife-point."
+
+"Come, Nehushta," said Miriam, "this is our road, and there runs that
+of the captain and his company. Sir, farewell, and thank you for your
+escort."
+
+"Lady, for this while farewell, and thank you for your guidance."
+
+Thus for that day they parted.
+
+The dwelling which many years before had been built by the Essenes for
+the use of their ward and her nurse, stood next to the large guest-
+house. Indeed, it occupied a portion of the ground which originally
+belonged to it, although now the plot was divided into two gardens by
+an irrigation ditch and a live pomegranate fence, covered at this
+season of the year with its golden globes of fruit. That evening, as
+Miriam and Nehushta walked in the garden, they heard the familiar
+voice of Ithiel calling to them from the other side of this fence, and
+presently above it saw his kindly face and venerable white head.
+
+"What is it, my uncle?" asked Miriam running to him.
+
+"Only this, child; the noble Roman captain, Marcus, is to stay in the
+guest-house during his visit to us, so do not be frightened if you
+hear or see men moving about in this garden--If, indeed, Romans care
+to walk in gardens. I am to bide here also, to play host to him and
+see that he lacks nothing. Also I do not think that he will give you
+any trouble, since, for a Roman, he seems both courteous and kindly."
+
+"I am not afraid, my uncle," said Miriam; "indeed," she added,
+blushing a little in spite of herself, "Nehushta and I have already
+become acquainted with this captain"; and she told him of their
+meeting beyond the village.
+
+"Nehushta, Nehushta," said Ithiel reprovingly, "have I not said to you
+that you should not walk so far afield without some of the brethren as
+an escort? You might, perchance, have met thieves, or drunken men."
+
+"My lady wished to gather some flowers she sought," answered Nehushta,
+"as she has done without harm for many a year; and being armed, I did
+not fear thieves, if such men are to be found where all are poor."
+
+"Well, well, as it chances, no harm has happened; but do not go out
+unattended again, lest the soldiers should not be so courteous as
+their captain. They will not trouble you by the way, since, with the
+exception of a single guard, they camp yonder by the streamlet.
+Farewell for this night, my child; we will meet to-morrow."
+
+Then Miriam went to rest and dreamed of the Roman captain, and that
+he, she, and Nehushta made a journey together and met with many great
+adventures, wherein Caleb played some strange part. In that dream the
+captain Marcus protected them from all these dangers, till at length
+they came to a calm sea, on which floated a single white ship wherein
+they must embark, having the sign of the Cross woven in its sails.
+Then she awoke and found that it was morning.
+
+Of all the arts she had been taught, Miriam was fondest of that of
+modelling in clay, for which she had a natural gift. Indeed, so great
+had her skill become, that these models which she made, after they had
+been baked with fire, were, at her wish, sold by the Essenes to any
+who took a fancy to them. As to the money which they fetched, it was
+paid into a fund to be distributed among the poor.
+
+This art Miriam carried on in a reed-thatched shed in the garden,
+where, by an earthen pipe, water was delivered into a stone basin,
+which she used to damp her clay and cloths. Sometimes also, with the
+help of masons and the master who had taught her, now a very old man,
+she copied these models in marble, which the Essenes brought to her
+from the ruins of a palace near Jericho. At the time that the Romans
+came she was finishing a work more ambitious than any which she had
+undertaken as yet; namely, a life-sized bust cut from the fragment of
+an ancient column to the likeness of her great-uncle, Ithiel. On the
+afternoon following the day that she met Marcus, clad in her white
+working-robe, she was occupied in polishing this bust, with the
+assistance of Nehushta, who handed her the cloths and grinding-powder.
+Suddenly shadows fell upon her, and turning, she beheld Ithiel and the
+Roman.
+
+"Daughter," said Ithiel, smiling at her confusion, "I have brought the
+captain Marcus to see your work."
+
+"Oh, my uncle!" she replied indignantly, "am I in a state to receive
+any captain?" and she held out her wet hands and pointed to her
+garments begrimed with clay and powder. "Look at me."
+
+"I look," said Ithiel innocently, "and see naught amiss."
+
+"And I look, lady," added Marcus in his merry voice, "and see much to
+admire. Would that more of your sex could be found thus delightfully
+employed."
+
+"Alas, sir," she replied, adroitly misunderstanding him, for Miriam
+did not lack readiness, "in this poor work there is little to admire.
+I am ashamed that you should look on the rude fashionings of a half-
+trained girl, you who must have seen all those splendid statues of
+which I have been told."
+
+"By the throne of Cæsar, lady," he exclaimed in a voice that carried a
+conviction of his earnestness, staring hard at the bust of Ithiel
+before him, "as it chances, although I am not an artist, I do know
+something of sculpture, since I have a friend who is held to be the
+best of our day, and often for my sins have sat as model to him. Well,
+I tell you this--never did the great Glaucus produce a bust like
+that."
+
+"I daresay not," said Miriam smiling. "I daresay the great Glaucus
+would go mad if he saw it."
+
+"He would--with envy. He would say that it was the work of one of the
+glorious Greeks, and of no modern."
+
+"Sir," said Ithiel reprovingly, "do not make a jest of the maid, who
+does the best she can; it pains her and--is not fitting."
+
+"Friend Ithiel," replied Marcus, turning quite crimson, "you must
+indeed think that I lack manners who would come to the home of any
+artist to mock his work. I say what I mean, neither more nor less. If
+this bust were shown in Rome, together with yourself who sat for it,
+the lady Miriam would find herself famous within a week. Yes," and he
+ran his eye quickly over various statuettes, some of them baked and
+some in the raw clay, models, for the most part, of camels or other
+animals or birds, "yes, and it is the same with all the rest: these
+are the works of genius, no less."
+
+At this praise, to them so exaggerated, Miriam, pleased as she could
+not help feeling, broke into clear laugher, which both Ithiel and
+Nehushta echoed. Now, so wroth was he, the face of Marcus grew quite
+pale and stern.
+
+"It seems," he said severely, "that it is not I who mock. Tell me,
+lady, what do you with these things?" and he pointed to the
+statuettes.
+
+"I, sir? I sell them; or at least my uncles do."
+
+"The money is given to the poor," interposed Ithiel.
+
+"Would it be rude to ask at what price?"
+
+"Sometimes," replied Ithiel with pride, "travellers have given me as
+much as a silver shekel.[*] Once indeed, for a group of camels with
+their Arabian drivers, I received four shekels; but that took my niece
+three months to do."
+
+[*] About 2s. 6d. of English money.
+
+"A shekel! Four shekels!" said Marcus in a voice of despair; "I will
+buy them all--no, I will not, it would be robbery. And this bust?"
+
+"That, sir, is not for sale; it is a gift to my uncle, or rather to my
+uncles, to be set up in their court-room."
+
+An idea struck Marcus. "I am here for a few weeks," he said. "Tell me,
+lady, if your uncle Ithiel will permit it, at what price will you
+execute a bust of myself of the same size and quality?"
+
+"It would be dear," said Miriam, smiling at the notion, "for the
+marble costs something, and the tools, which wear out. Oh, it would be
+very dear!" This she repeated, wondering what she could ask in her
+charitable avarice. "It would be----" yes, she would venture it--
+"fifty shekels!"
+
+"I am poor enough," replied Marcus quietly, "but I will give you two
+hundred."
+
+"Two hundred!" gasped Miriam. "It is absurd. I could never accept two
+hundred shekels for a piece of stonework. Then indeed you might say
+that you had fallen among thieves on the banks of Jordan. No. If my
+uncles will permit it and there is time, I will do my poor best for
+fifty--only, sir, I advise you against it, since to win that bad
+likeness you must sit for many weary hours."
+
+"So be it," said Marcus. "As soon as I get to any civilised place I
+will send you enough commissions to make the beggars in these parts
+rich for life, and at a very different figure. Let us begin at once."
+
+"Sir, I have no leave."
+
+"The matter," explained Ithiel, "must be laid before the Court of
+Curators, which will decide upon it to-morrow. Meanwhile, as we are
+talking here, I see no harm if my niece chooses to work a lump of
+clay, which can be broken up later should the Court in its wisdom
+refuse your request."
+
+"I hope for its own sake that the Court in its wisdom will not be such
+a fool," muttered Marcus to himself; adding aloud, "Lady, where shall
+I place myself? You will find me the best of sitters. Have I not the
+great Glaucus for a friend--until I show him this work of yours?"
+
+"If you will, sir, be seated on that stool and be pleased to look
+towards me."
+
+"I am your servant," said Marcus, in a cheerful voice; and the sitting
+began.
+
+
+
+                             CHAPTER VIII
+
+                           MARCUS AND CALEB
+
+On the morrow, as he had promised, Ithiel brought this question of
+whether or no Miriam was to be allowed to execute a bust of the
+centurion, Marcus, before the Court of the Curators of the Essenes,
+who were accustomed thus to consider questions connected with their
+ward's welfare in solemn conclave. There was a division of opinion.
+Some of them saw no harm; others, more strait-laced, held that it was
+scarcely correct that a Roman whose principles, doubtless, were lax,
+should be allowed to sit to the lady whom they fondly called their
+child. Indeed, it seemed dubious whether the leave would be given,
+until a curator, with more worldly wisdom than the rest, suggested
+that as the captain seemed desirous of having his picture taken in
+stone, under the circumstances of his visit, which included a
+commission to make a general report upon their society to the
+authorities, it might be scarcely wise to deny his wish. Finally, a
+compromise was effected. It was agreed that Miriam should be permitted
+to do the work, but only in the presence of Ithiel and two other
+curators, one of them her own instructor in art.
+
+Thus it came about that when Marcus presented himself for the second
+time, at an hour fixed by Ithiel, he found three white-bearded and
+white-robed old gentlemen seated in a row in the workshop, and behind
+them, a smile on her dusky face, Nehushta. As he entered they rose and
+bowed to him, a compliment which he returned. Now Miriam appeared, to
+whom he made his salutation.
+
+"Are these," he said, indicating the elders, "waiting their turn to be
+modelled, or are they critics?"
+
+"They are critics," said Miriam drily, as she lifted the damp cloths
+from the rude lump of clay.
+
+Then the work began. As the three curators were seated in a line at
+the end of the shed, and did not seem to think it right to leave their
+chairs, they could see little of its details, and as they were early
+risers and the afternoon was hot, soon they were asleep, every one of
+them.
+
+"Look at them," said Marcus; "there is a subject for any artist."
+
+Miriam nodded, and taking three lumps of clay, working deftly and
+silently, presently produced to his delighted sight rough but
+excellent portraits of these admirable men, who, when they woke up,
+laughed at them very heartily.
+
+Thus things went on from day to day. Each afternoon the elders
+attended, and each afternoon they sank to slumber in their comfortable
+chairs, an example that Nehushta followed, or seemed to follow,
+leaving Miriam and her model practically alone. As may be guessed, the
+model, who liked conversation, did not neglect these opportunities.
+Few were the subjects which the two of them failed to discuss. He told
+her of all his life, which had been varied and exciting, omitting, it
+is true, certain details; also of the wars in which he had served, and
+the countries that he had visited. She in turn told him the simple
+story of her existence among the Essenes, which he seemed to find of
+interest. When these subjects were exhausted they discussed other
+things--the matter of religion, for instance. Indeed, Miriam ventured
+to expound to him the principles of her faith, to which he listened
+respectfully and with attention.
+
+"It sounds well," he said at length with a sigh, "but how do such
+maxims fit in with this world of ours? See now, lady, I am not old,
+but already I have studied so many religions. First, there are the
+gods of Greece and Rome, my own gods, you understand--well, the less
+said of them the better. They serve, that is all. Then there are the
+gods of Egypt, as to which I made inquiry, and of them I will say
+this: that beneath the grotesque cloak of their worship seems to shine
+some spark of a holy fire. Next come the gods of the Phœnicians, the
+fathers of a hideous creed. After them the flame worshippers and other
+kindred religions of the East. There remain the Jews, whose doctrine
+seems to me a savage one; at least it involves bloodshed with the
+daily offering of blood. Also they are divided, these Jews, for some
+are Pharisees, some Sadducees, some Essenes. Lastly, there are you
+Christians, whose faith is pure enough in theory, but whom all unite
+against in hate. What is the worth of a belief in this crucified
+Preacher who promises that He will raise those who trust in Him from
+the dead?"
+
+"That you will find out when everything else has failed you," answered
+Miriam.
+
+"Yes, it is a religion for those whom everything else has failed. When
+that chances to the rest of us we commit suicide and sink from sight."
+
+"And we," she said proudly, "rise to life eternal."
+
+"It may be so, lady, it may be so; but let us talk of something more
+cheerful," and he sighed. "At present, I hold that nothing is eternal
+--except perhaps such art as yours."
+
+"Which will be forgotten in the first change of taste, or crumbled in
+the first fire. But see, he is awake. Come here, my master, and work
+this nostril, for it is beyond me."
+
+The old artist advanced and looked at the bust with admiration.
+
+"Maid Miriam," he said, "I used to have some skill in this art, and I
+taught you its rudiments; but now, child, I am not fit to temper your
+clay. Deal with the nostril as you will; I am but a hodman who bears
+the bricks, you are the heaven-born architect. I will not meddle, I
+will not meddle; yet perhaps----" and he made a suggestion.
+
+"So?" said Miriam, touching the clay with her tool. "Oh, look! it is
+right now. You are clever, my master."
+
+"It was always right. I may be clever, but you have genius, and would
+have found the fault without any help from me."
+
+"Did I not say so?" broke in Marcus triumphantly.
+
+"Sir," replied Miriam, "you say a great deal, and much of it, I think,
+you do not mean. Please be silent; at this moment I wish to study your
+lips, and not your words."
+
+So the work went on. They did not always talk, for soon they found
+that speech is not necessary to true companionship. Once Miriam began
+to sing, and since she discovered that her voice pleased Marcus and
+soothed the slumbers of the elders, she sang often; quaint, sad songs
+of the desert and of the Jordan fishermen. Also she told him tales and
+legends, and when she had done Nehushta told others--wild stories of
+Libya, some of them very dark and bloody, others of magic, black or
+white. Thus these afternoons passed happily enough, and the clay model
+being finished, after the masons among the brethren had rough hewn it
+for her, Miriam began to fashion it in marble.
+
+There was one, however, for whom these days did not pass happily--
+Caleb. From the time that he had seen Miriam walking side by side with
+Marcus he hated the brilliant-looking Roman in whom, his instinct
+warned him, he had found a dangerous rival. Oh, how he hated him! So
+much, indeed, that even in the moment of first meeting he could not
+keep his rage and envy in his heart, but suffered them to be written
+on his face, and to shine like danger signals in his eyes, which, it
+may be remembered, Marcus did not neglect to note.
+
+Of Miriam Caleb had seen but little lately. She was not angry with
+him, since his offence was of a nature which a woman can forgive, but
+in her heart she feared him. Of a sudden, as it were, the curtain had
+been drawn, and she had seen this young man's secret spirit and
+learned that it was a consuming fire. It had come home to her that
+every word he spoke was true, that he who was orphaned and not liked
+even by the gentle elders of the Essenes, loved but one being upon
+earth--herself, whereas already his bosom seethed with many hates. She
+was sure also that any man for whom she chanced to care, if such an
+one should ever cross her path, would, as Caleb had promised, go in
+danger at his hands, and the thought frightened her. Most of all did
+it frighten her when she saw him glower upon Marcus, although in truth
+the Roman was nothing to her. Yet, as she knew, Caleb had judged
+otherwise.
+
+But if she saw little of him, of this Miriam was sure enough--that he
+was seldom far from her, and that he found means to learn from day to
+day how she spent her hours. Indeed, Marcus told her that wherever he
+went he met that handsome young man with revengeful eyes, who she had
+said was named Caleb. Therefore Miriam grew frightened and, as the
+issue will show, not without cause.
+
+One afternoon, while Miriam was at work upon the marble, and the three
+elders were as usual sunk in slumber, Marcus said suddenly:
+
+"I forgot. I have news for you, lady. I have found out who murdered
+that Jewish thief whose end, amongst other things, I was sent to
+investigate. It was your friend Caleb."
+
+Miriam started so violently that her chisel gave an unexpected effect
+to one of Marcus's curls.
+
+"Hush!" she said, glancing towards the sleepers, one of whom had just
+snored so loudly that he began to awake at the sound; then added in a
+whisper, "They do not know, do they?"
+
+He shook his head and looked puzzled.
+
+"I must speak to you of this matter," she went on with agitation, and
+in the same whisper. "No, not now or here, but alone."
+
+"When and where you will," answered Marcus, smiling, as if the
+prospect of a solitary conversation with Miriam did not displease him,
+although this evil-doing Caleb was to be its subject. "Name the time
+and place, lady."
+
+By now the snoring elder was awake, and rising from his chair with a
+great noise, which in turn roused the others. Nehushta also rose from
+her seat and in doing so, as though by accident, overset a copper tray
+on which lay metal tools.
+
+"In the garden one hour after sunset. Nehushta will leave the little
+lower door unlocked."
+
+"Good," answered Marcus; then added in a loud voice, "Not so, lady. Ye
+gods! what a noise! I think the curl improved by the slip. It looks
+less as though it had been waxed after the Egyptian fashion. Sirs, why
+do you disturb yourselves? I fear that to you this long waiting must
+be as tedious as to me it seems unnecessary."
+
+The sun was down, and the last red glow had faded from the western
+sky, which was now lit only by the soft light of a half-moon. All the
+world lay bathed in peace and beauty; even the stern outlines of the
+surrounding mountains seemed softened, and the pale waters of the Dead
+Sea and the ashen face of the desert gleamed like silver new cast from
+the mould. From the oleanders and lilies which bloomed along the edge
+of the irrigation channels, and from the white flowers of the glossy,
+golden-fruited orange trees, floated a perfume delicious to the sense,
+while the silence was only broken from time to time by the bark of a
+wandering dog or the howl of a jackal in the wilderness.
+
+"A very pleasant night--to talk about Caleb," reflected Marcus, who
+had reached the appointed spot ten minutes before the time, as he
+strolled from the narrow belt of trees that were planted along the
+high, outer wall, into the more open part of the garden. Had Marcus
+chanced to notice that this same Caleb, walking softly as a cat, and
+keeping with great care in the shadow, had followed him through the
+little door which he forgot to lock, and was now hidden among those
+very trees, he might have remembered a proverb to the effect that
+snakes hide in the greenest grass and the prettiest flowers have
+thorny stems. But he thought of no such thing, who was lost in happy
+anticipations of a moonlight interview with a lovely and cultured
+young lady, whose image, to speak truth, had taken so deep a hold upon
+his fancy, that sometimes he wondered how he would be able to banish
+it thence again. At present he could think of no better means than
+that which at this moment he was following with delight. Meetings in
+moonlit gardens tend proverbially to disenchantment!
+
+Presently Marcus caught the gleam of a white robe followed by a dark
+one, flitting towards him through the dim and dewy garden, and at the
+sight his heart stood still, then began to beat again in a disorderly
+fashion. Had he known it, another heart a few yards behind him also
+stood still, and then began to beat like that of a man in a violent
+rage. It seems possible, also, that a third heart experienced unusual
+sensations.
+
+"I wish she had left the old lady behind," muttered Marcus. "No, I
+don't, for then there are brutes who, if they knew, might blame her";
+and, luckily for himself, he walked forward a few paces to meet the
+white robe, leaving the little belt of trees almost out of hearing.
+
+Now Miriam stood before him, the moonlight shining on her delicate
+face and in her tranquil eyes, which always reminded him of the blue
+depths of heaven.
+
+"Sir," she began----
+
+"Oh, I pray you," he broke in, "cease from ceremony and call me
+Marcus!"
+
+"Captain Marcus," she repeated, dwelling a little on the unfamiliar
+name, "I beg that you will forgive me for disturbing you at so
+unseasonable an hour."
+
+"Certainly I forgive you, Lady Miriam," he replied, also dwelling on
+her name and copying her accent in a fashion that made the grim-faced
+Nehushta smile.
+
+She waved her hand in deprecation. "The truth is, that this matter of
+Caleb's----"
+
+"Oh, may all the infernal gods take Caleb! as I have reason to believe
+they shortly will," broke in Marcus angrily.
+
+"But that is just what I wish to prevent; we have met here to talk of
+Caleb."
+
+"Well, if you must--talk and let us be done with him. What about
+Caleb?"
+
+Miriam clasped her hands. "What do you know of him, Captain Marcus?"
+
+"Know? Why, just this: a spy I have in my troop has found out a
+country fellow who was hunting for mushrooms or something--I forget
+what--in a gully a mile away, and saw this interesting youth hide
+himself there and shoot that Jewish plunderer with a bow and arrow.
+More--he has found another man who saw the said Caleb an hour or two
+before help himself to an arrow out of one of the Jew's quivers, which
+arrow appears to be identical with, or at any rate, similar to, that
+which was found in the fellow's gullet. Therefore, it seems that Caleb
+is guilty, and that it will be my duty to-morrow to place him under
+arrest, and in due course to convey him to Jerusalem, where the
+priests will attend to his little business. Now, Lady Miriam, is your
+curiosity satisfied about Caleb?"
+
+"Oh," she said, "it cannot be, it must not be! The man had struck him
+and he did but return a blow for a blow."
+
+"An arrow for a blow, you mean; the point of a spear for the push of
+its handle. But, Lady Miriam, you seem to be very deep in the
+confidence of Caleb. How do you come to know all this?"
+
+"I don't know, I only guess. I daresay, nay, I am sure, that Caleb is
+quite innocent."
+
+"Why do you take such an interest in Caleb?" asked Marcus
+suspiciously.
+
+"Because he was my friend and playmate from childhood."
+
+"Umph," he answered, "a strange couple--a dove and a raven. Well, I am
+glad that you did not catch his temper, or you would be more dangerous
+even than you are. Now, what do you want me to do?"
+
+"I want you to spare Caleb. You, you, you--need not believe those
+witnesses."
+
+"To think of it!" said Marcus, in mock horror. "To think that one whom
+I thought so good can prove so immoral. Do you then wish to tempt me
+from my duty?"
+
+"Yes, I suppose so. At least the peasants round here are great liars."
+
+"Lady," said Marcus, with stern conviction, "Caleb has improved upon
+his opportunities as a playmate; he has been making love to you. I
+thought so from the first."
+
+"Oh," she answered, "how can you know that? Besides, he promised that
+he would never do it again."
+
+"How can I know that? Why, because Caleb would have been a bigger fool
+than I take him for if he had not. And if it rested with me, certainly
+he never would do it again. Now be honest with me, if a woman can on
+such a matter, and tell me true: are you in love with this Caleb?"
+
+"I--I? In love with Caleb? Of course not. If you do not believe me,
+ask Nehushta."
+
+"Thank you, I will be content with your own reply. You deny that you
+are in love with him, and I incline to believe you; but, on the other
+hand, I remember that you would naturally say this, since you might
+think that any other answer would prejudice the cause of Caleb with
+me."
+
+"With you! What can it matter to you, sir, whether or no I am in love
+with Caleb, who, to tell you the truth, frightens me?"
+
+"And that, I suppose, is why you plead so hard for him?"
+
+"No," she answered with a sudden sternness, "I plead hard for him as
+in like case I would plead hard for you--because he has been my
+friend, and if he did this deed he was provoked to it."
+
+"Well spoken," said Marcus, gazing at her steadily. Indeed, she was
+worth looking at as she stood there before him, her hands clasped, her
+breast heaving, her sweet, pale face flushed with emotion and her
+lovely eyes aswim with tears. Of a sudden as he gazed Marcus lost
+control of himself. Passion for this maiden and bitter jealousy of
+Caleb arose like twin giants in his heart and possessed him.
+
+"You say you are not in love with Caleb," he said. "Well, kiss me and
+I will believe you."
+
+"How could such a thing prove my words?" she asked indignantly.
+
+"I do not know and I do not care. Kiss me once and I will believe
+further that the peasants of these parts are all liars. I feel myself
+beginning to believe it."
+
+"And if I will not?"
+
+"Then I am afraid I must refer the matter to a competent tribunal at
+Jerusalem."
+
+"Nehushta, Nehushta, you have heard. What shall I do?"
+
+"What shall you do?" said Nehushta drily. "Well, if you like to give
+the noble Marcus a kiss, I shall not blame you overmuch or tell on
+you. But if you do not wish it, then I think you would be a fool to
+put yourself to shame to save Caleb."
+
+"Yet, I will do it--and to save Caleb only," said Miriam with a sob,
+and she bent towards him.
+
+To her surprise Marcus drew back, placing his hand before his face.
+
+"Forgive me," he said. "I was a brute who wished to buy kisses in such
+a fashion. I forgot myself; your beauty is to blame, and your
+sweetness and everything that is yours. I pray," he added humbly,
+"that you will not think the worse of me, since we men are frail at
+times. And now, because you ask me, though I have no right, I grant
+your prayer. Mayhap those witnesses lied; at least, the man's sin, if
+sin there be, can be excused. He has naught to fear from me."
+
+"No," broke in Nehushta, "but I think you have much to fear from him;
+and I am sorry for that, my lord Marcus, for you have a noble heart."
+
+"It may be so; the future is on the knees of the gods, and that which
+is fated will befall. My Lady Miriam, I, your humble servant and
+friend, wish you farewell."
+
+"Farewell," she answered. "Yes, Nehushta is right, you have a noble
+heart"; and she looked at him in such a fashion that it flashed across
+his mind that were he to proffer that request of his again, it might
+not be refused. But Marcus would not do it. He had tasted of the joy
+of self-conquest, who hitherto, after the manner of his age and race,
+had denied himself little, and, as it seemed to him, a strange new
+power was stirring in his heart--something purer, higher, nobler, than
+he had known before. He would cherish it a while.
+
+Of all that were spoken there in the garden, Caleb, the watcher, could
+catch no word. The speakers did not raise their voices and they stood
+at a distance, so that although he craned his head forward as far as
+he dared in the shadow of the trees, sharp and trained as they were,
+naught save a confused murmur reached his ears. But if these failed
+him, his eyes fed full, so that he lost no move or gesture. It was a
+passionate love scene, this was clear, for Nehushta stood at a little
+distance with her back turned, while the pair poured out their sweet
+speeches to each other. Then at length, as he had expected, came the
+climax. Yes, oh! shameless woman--they were embracing. A mist fell
+upon Caleb's eyes, in which lights flashed like red-hot swords lifting
+and smiting, the blood drummed in his ears as though his raging,
+jealous heart would burst. He would kill that Roman now on the spot.
+Miriam should never kiss him more--alive.
+
+Already Caleb had drawn the short-sword from its hiding-place in his
+ample robe; already he had stepped out from the shadow of the trees,
+when of a sudden his reason righted itself like a ship that has been
+laid over by a furious squall, and caution came back to him. If he did
+this that faithless guardian, Nehushta, who without doubt had been
+bought with Roman gold, would come to the assistance of her patron and
+thrust her dagger through his back, as she well could do. Or should he
+escape that dagger, one or other of them would raise the Essenes on
+him, and he would be given over to justice. He wished to slay, not to
+be slain. It would be sweet to kill the Roman, but if he himself were
+laid dead across his body, leaving Miriam alive to pass to some other
+man, what would he be advantaged? Presently they must cease from their
+endearments; presently his enemy would return as he had come, and then
+he might find his chance. He would wait, he would wait.
+
+Look, they had parted; Miriam was gliding back to the house, and
+Marcus came towards him, walking like a man in his sleep. Only
+Nehushta stood where she was, her eyes fixed upon the ground as though
+she were reasoning with herself. Still like a man in a dream, Marcus
+passed him within touch of his outstretched hand. Caleb followed.
+Marcus opened the door, went out of it, and pulled it to behind him.
+Caleb caught it in his hand, slipped through and closed it. A few
+paces down the wall--eight or ten perhaps--was another door, by which
+Marcus entered the garden of the guest-house. As he turned to shut
+this, Caleb pushed in after him, and they were face to face.
+
+"Who are you?" asked the Roman, springing back.
+
+Caleb, who by now was cool enough, closed the door and shot the bolt.
+Then he answered, "Caleb, the son of Hilliel, who wishes a word with
+you."
+
+"Ah!" said Marcus, "the very man, and, as usual, unless the light
+deceives me, in an evil humour. Well, Caleb the son of Hilliel, what
+is your business with me?"
+
+"One of life and death, Marcus the son of Emilius," he answered, in
+such a tone that the Roman drew his sword and stood watching him.
+
+"Be plain and brief, young man," he said.
+
+"I will be both plain and brief. I love that lady from whom you have
+just parted, and you also love, or pretend to love, her. Nay, deny it
+not; I have seen all, even to your kisses. Well, she cannot belong to
+both of us, and I intend that in some future day she shall belong to
+me if arm and eye do not fail me now. Therefore one of us must die
+to-night."
+
+Marcus stepped back, overcome not with fear, but with astonishment.
+
+"Insolent," he said, "you lie! There were no kisses, and our talk was
+of your neck, that I gave to her because she asked it, which is
+forfeit for the murder of the Jew."
+
+"Indeed," sneered Caleb. "Now, who would have thought that the noble
+Captain Marcus would shelter thus behind a woman's robe? For the rest,
+my life is my own and no other's to give or to receive. Guard
+yourself, Roman, since I would kill you in fair fight. Had I another
+mind you would be dead by now, never knowing the hand that struck you.
+Have no fear; I am your equal, for my forefathers were nobles when
+yours were savages."
+
+"Boy, are you mad," asked Marcus, "to think that I, who have fought in
+three wars, can fear a beardless youth, however fierce? Why, if I
+feared you I have but to blow upon this whistle and my guards would
+hale you hence to a felon's death. For your own sake it is that I pray
+you to consider. Setting aside my rank and yours, I will fight you if
+you will, and now. Yet think. If I kill you there is an end, and if by
+chance you should kill me, you will be hunted down as a double
+murderer. As it is, I forgive you, because I know how bitter is the
+jealousy of youth, and because you struck no assassin's blow when you
+might have done so safely. Therefore, I say, go in peace, knowing that
+I shall not break my word."
+
+"Cease talking," said Caleb, "and come out into the moonlight."
+
+"I am glad that is your wish," replied Marcus. "Having done all I can
+to save you, I will add that I think you a dangerous cub, of whom the
+world, the lady Miriam and I alike will be well rid. Now, what weapon
+have you? A short sword and no mail? Well, so have I. In this we are
+well matched. Stay, I have a steel-lined cap, and you have none. There
+it goes, to make our chances equal. Wind your cloak about your left
+arm as I do. I have known worse shields. Good foothold, but an
+uncertain light. Now, go!"
+
+Caleb needed no encouragement. For one second they stood facing each
+other, very types of the Eastern and Western world; the Roman--sturdy,
+honest-eyed, watchful and fearless, his head thrown back, his feet
+apart, his shield arm forward, his sword hand pressed to his side from
+which the steel projected. Over against him was the Jew, crouched like
+a tiger about to spring, his eyes half closed as though to concentrate
+the light, his face working with rage, and every muscle quivering till
+his whole flesh seemed to move upon his bones, like to that of a
+snake. Suddenly, uttering a low cry, he sprang, and with that savage
+onslaught the fight began and ended.
+
+Marcus was ready; moreover, he knew what he would do. As the man came,
+stepping swiftly to one side, he caught the thrust of Caleb's sword in
+the folded cloak, and since he did not wish to kill him, struck at his
+hand. The blow fell upon Caleb's first finger and severed it, cutting
+the others also, so that it dropped to the ground with the sword that
+they had held. Marcus put his foot upon the blade, and wheeled round.
+
+"Young man," he said sternly, "you have learnt your lesson and will
+bear the mark of it till your death day. Now begone."
+
+The wretched Caleb ground his teeth. "It was to the death!" he said,
+"it was to the death! You have conquered, kill me," and with his
+bloody hand he tore open his robe to make a path for the sword.
+
+"Leave such talk to play-actors," answered Marcus. "Begone, and be
+sure of this--that if ever you try to bring treachery on me, or
+trouble on the lady Miriam, I will kill you sure enough."
+
+Then with a sound that was half curse and half sob, Caleb turned and
+slunk away. With a shrug of the shoulder Marcus also turned to go,
+when he felt a shadow fall upon him, and swung round, to find Nehushta
+at his side.
+
+"And pray where did you come from, my Libyan friend?" he asked.
+
+"Out of that pomegranate fence, my Roman lord, whence I have seen and
+heard all that passed."
+
+"Indeed. Then I hope that you give me credit for good sword-play and
+good temper."
+
+"The sword-play was well enough, though nothing to boast of with such
+a madman for a foe. As for the temper, it was that of a fool."
+
+"Such," soliloquised Marcus, "is the reward of virtue. But I am
+curious. Why?"
+
+"Because, my lord Marcus, this Caleb will grow into the most dangerous
+man in Judæa, and to none more dangerous than to my lady Miriam and
+yourself. You should have killed him while you had the chance, before
+his turn comes to kill you."
+
+"Perhaps," answered Marcus with a yawn; "but, friend Nehushta, I have
+been associating with a Christian and have caught something of her
+doctrines. That seems a fine sword. You had better keep it. Good-
+night."
+
+
+
+                              CHAPTER IX
+
+                        THE JUSTICE OF FLORUS
+
+On the following morning, when the roll of the neophytes of the
+Essenes was called, Caleb did not appear. Nor did he answer to his
+name on the next day, or indeed ever again. None knew what had become
+of him until a while after a letter was received addressed to the
+Curators of the Court, in which he announced that, finding he had no
+vocation for an Essenic career, he had taken refuge with friends of
+his late father, in some place not stated. There, so far as the
+Essenes were concerned, the matter ended. Indeed, as the peasant who
+was concealed in the gully when the Jew was murdered had talked of
+what he had witnessed, even the most simple-minded of the Essenes
+could suggest a reason for this sudden departure. Nor did they
+altogether regret it, inasmuch as in many ways Caleb had proved
+himself but an unsatisfactory disciple, and already they were
+discussing the expediency of rejecting him from the fellowship of
+their peaceful order. Had they known that when he vanished he left
+behind him a drawn sword and one of his forefingers, their opinion on
+this point might have been strengthened. But this they did not know,
+although Miriam knew it through Nehushta.
+
+A week went by, during which time Miriam and Marcus did not meet, as
+no further sittings were arranged for the completion of the bust. In
+fact, they were not needful, since she could work from the clay model,
+which she did, till, labouring at it continually, the marble was done
+and even polished. One morning as the artist was putting the last
+touches to her labours, the door of the workshop was darkened and she
+looked up to see Marcus, who, except for his helmet, was clad in full
+mail as though about to start upon a journey. As it chanced, Miriam
+was alone in the place, Nehushta having gone to attend to household
+affairs. Thus for the first time they met with no other eyes to watch
+them.
+
+At the sight of him she coloured, letting the cloth fall from her hand
+which remained about the neck of the marble.
+
+"I ask your pardon, Lady Miriam," said Marcus, bowing gravely, "for
+breaking in thus upon your privacy; but time presses with me so that I
+lacked any to give notice to your guardians of my visit."
+
+"Are you leaving us?" she faltered.
+
+"Yes, I am leaving you."
+
+Miriam turned aside and picked up the cloth, then answered, "Well, the
+work is done, or will be in a few minutes; so if you think it worth
+the trouble, take it."
+
+"That is my intention. The price I will settle with your uncles."
+
+She nodded. "Yes, yes, but if you will permit me, I should like to
+pack it myself, so that it comes to no harm upon the journey. Also
+with your leave I will retain the model, which by right belongs to
+you. I am not pleased with this marble; I wish to make another."
+
+"The marble is perfect; but keep the model if you will. I am very glad
+that you should keep it."
+
+She glanced at him, a question in her eyes, then looked away.
+
+"When do you go?" she asked.
+
+"Three hours after noon. My task is finished, my report--which is to
+the effect that the Essenes are a most worthy and harmless people who
+deserve to be encouraged, not molested--is written. Also I am called
+hence in haste by a messenger who reached me from Jerusalem an hour
+ago. Would you like to know why?"
+
+"If it pleases you to tell me, yes."
+
+"I think that I told you of my uncle Caius, who was pro-consul under
+the late emperor for the richest province of Spain, and--made use of
+his opportunities."
+
+"Yes."
+
+"Well, the old man has been smitten with a mortal disease. For aught I
+know he may be already dead, although the physicians seemed to think
+he would live for another ten months, or perhaps a year. Being in this
+case, suddenly he has grown fond of his relations, or rather relation,
+for I am the only one, and expressed a desire to see me, to whom for
+many years he has never given a single penny. He has even announced
+his intention--by letter--of making me his heir 'should he find me
+worthy,' which, to succeed Caius, whatever my faults, indeed I am not,
+since of all men, as I have told him in past days, I hold him the
+worst. Still, he has forwarded a sum of money to enable me to journey
+to him in haste, and with it a letter from the Cæsar, Nero, to the
+procurator Albinus, commanding him to give me instant leave to go.
+Therefore, lady, it seems wise that I should go."
+
+"Yes," answered Miriam. "I know little of such things, but I think
+that it is wise. Within two hours the bust shall be finished and
+packed," and she stretched out her hand in farewell.
+
+Marcus took the hand and held it. "I am loth to part with you thus,"
+he said suddenly.
+
+"There is only one fashion of parting," answered Miriam, striving to
+withdraw her hand.
+
+"Nay, there are many; and I hate them all--from you."
+
+"Sir," she asked with gentle indignation, "is it worth your while to
+play off these pretty phrases upon me? We have met for an hour; we
+separate--for a lifetime."
+
+"I do not see the need of that. Oh, the truth may as well out. I wish
+it least of all things."
+
+"Yet it is so. Come, let my hand go; the marble must be finished and
+packed."
+
+The face of Marcus became troubled, as though he were reasoning with
+himself, as though he wished to take her at her word and go, yet could
+not.
+
+"Is it ended?" asked Miriam presently, considering him with her quiet
+eyes.
+
+"I think not; I think it is but begun. Miriam, I love you."
+
+"Marcus," she answered steadily, "I do not think I should be asked to
+listen to such words."
+
+"Why not? They have always been thought honest between man and woman."
+
+"Perhaps, when they are meant honestly, which in this case can
+scarcely be."
+
+He grew hot and red. "What do you mean? Do you suppose----"
+
+"I suppose nothing, Captain Marcus."
+
+"Do you suppose," he repeated, "that I would offer you less than the
+place of wife?"
+
+"Assuredly not," she replied, "since to do so would be to insult you.
+But neither do I suppose that you really meant to offer me that
+place."
+
+"Yet that was in my mind, Miriam."
+
+Her eyes grew soft, but she answered:
+
+"Then, Marcus, I pray you, put it out of your mind, since between us
+rolls a great sea."
+
+"Is it named Caleb?" he asked bitterly.
+
+She smiled and shook her head. "You know well that it has no such
+name."
+
+"Tell me of this sea."
+
+"It is easy. You are a Roman worshipping the Roman gods; I am a
+Christian worshipping the God of the Christians. Therefore we are
+forever separate."
+
+"Why? I do not understand. If we were married you might come to think
+like me, or I might come to think like you. It is a matter of the
+spirit and the future, not of the body and the present. Every day
+Christians wed those who are not Christians; sometimes, even, they
+convert them."
+
+"Yes, I know; but in my case this may not be--even if I wished that it
+should be."
+
+"Why not?"
+
+"Because both by the command of my murdered father and of her own
+desire my mother laid it on me with her dying breath that I should
+take to husband no man who was not of our faith."
+
+"And do you hold yourself to be bound by this command?"
+
+"I do, without doubt and to the end."
+
+"However much you might chance to love a man who is not a Christian?"
+
+"However much I might chance to love such a man."
+
+Marcus let fall her hand. "I think I had best go," he said.
+
+"Yes."
+
+Then came a pause while he seemed to be struggling with himself.
+
+"Miriam, I cannot go."
+
+"Marcus, you must go."
+
+"Miriam, do you love me?"
+
+"Marcus, may Christ forgive me, I do."
+
+"Miriam, how much?"
+
+"Marcus, as much as a woman may love a man."
+
+"And yet," he broke out bitterly, "you bid me begone because I am not
+a Christian."
+
+"Because my faith is more than my love. I must offer my love upon the
+altar of my faith--or, at the least," she added hurriedly, "I am bound
+by a rope that cannot be cut or broken. To break it would bring down
+upon your head and mine the curse of Heaven and of my parents, who are
+its inhabitants."
+
+"And if I became of your faith?"
+
+Her whole face lit up, then suddenly its light died.
+
+"It is too much to hope. This is not a question of casting incense on
+an altar; it is a matter of a changed spirit and a new life. Oh! have
+done. Why do you play with me?"
+
+"A changed spirit and a new life. At the best that would take time."
+
+"Yes, time and thought."
+
+"And would you wait that time? Such beauty and such sweetness as are
+yours will not lack for suitors."
+
+"I shall wait. I have told you that I love you; no other man will be
+anything to me. I shall wed no other man."
+
+"You give all and take nothing; it is not just."
+
+"It is as God has willed. If it pleases God to touch your heart and to
+preserve us both alive, then in days to come our lives may be one
+life. Otherwise they must run apart till perchance we meet--in the
+eternal morning."
+
+"Oh, Miriam, I cannot leave you thus! Teach me as you will."
+
+"Nay, go, Marcus, and teach yourself. Am I a bait to win your soul?
+The path is not so easy, it is very difficult. Fare you well!"
+
+"May I write to you from Rome?" he asked.
+
+"Yes, why not, if by that time you should care to write, who then will
+have recovered from this folly of the desert and an idle moon?"
+
+"I shall write and I shall return, and we will talk of these matters;
+so, most sweet, farewell."
+
+"Farewell, Marcus, and the love of God go with you."
+
+"What of your love?"
+
+"My love is with you ever who have won my heart."
+
+"Then, Miriam, at least I have not lived in vain. Remember this
+always, that much as I may worship you, I honour you still more," and
+kneeling before her he kissed first her hand, and next the hem of her
+robe. Then he turned and went.
+
+
+
+That night, watching from the roof of her house by the light of the
+full moon, Miriam saw Marcus ride away at the head of his band of
+soldiers. On the crest of a little ridge of ground outside the village
+he halted, leaving them to go on, and turning his horse's head looked
+backward. Thus he stood awhile, the silver rays of the moon shining on
+his bright armour and making him a point of light set between two
+vales of shadow. Miriam could guess whither his eyes were turned and
+what was in his heart. It seemed to her, even, that she could feel his
+loving thought play upon her and that with the ear of his spirit he
+could catch the answer of her own. Then suddenly he turned and was
+lost in the gloom of the night.
+
+Now that he was gone, quite gone, Miriam's courage seemed to leave
+her, and leaning her head upon the parapet she wept tears that were
+soft but very bitter. Suddenly a hand was laid upon her shoulder and a
+voice, that of old Nehushta, spoke in her ear.
+
+"Mourn not," it said, "since him whom you lose in the night you may
+find again in the daytime."
+
+"In no day that dawns from an earthly sun, I fear me, Nou. Oh, Nou! he
+has gone, and taken my heart with him, leaving in its place a
+throbbing pain which is more than I can bear."
+
+"He will come back; I tell you that he will come back," she answered,
+almost fiercely; "for your life and his are intertwined--yes, to the
+end--a single cord bearing a double destiny. I know it; ask me not
+how; but be comforted, for it is truth. Moreover, though it be sharp,
+your pain is not more than you can bear, else it would never be laid
+upon you."
+
+"But, Nou, if he does come back, what will it help me, who am built in
+by this strict command of them that begat me, to break through which
+would be to sin against and earn the curse of God and man?"
+
+"I do not know; I only know this, that in that wall, as in others, a
+door will be found. Trouble not for the future, but leave it in the
+hand of Him Who shapes all futures. Sufficient to the day is the evil
+thereof. So He said. Accept the saying and be grateful. It is
+something to have gained the love of such a one as this Roman, for,
+unless the wisdom which I have gained through many years is at fault,
+he is true and honest; and that man must be good at heart who can be
+reared in Rome and in the worship of its gods and yet remain honest.
+Remember these things, and I say be grateful, since there are many who
+go through their lives knowing no such joy, even for an hour."
+
+"I will try, Nou," said Miriam humbly, still staring at the ridge
+whence Marcus had vanished.
+
+"You will try, and you will succeed. Now there is another matter of
+which I must speak to you. When the Essenes received us it was
+solemnly decreed that if you lived to reach the full age of eighteen
+years you must depart from among them. That hour struck for you nearly
+a year ago, and, although you heard nothing of it, this decree was
+debated by the Court. Now such decrees may not be broken, but it was
+argued that the words 'full age of eighteen years,' meant and were
+intended to mean until you reached your nineteenth birthday; that is--
+in a month from now."
+
+"Then must we go, Nou?" asked Miriam in dismay, for she knew no other
+world but this village in the desert, and no other friends than these
+venerable men whom she called her uncles.
+
+"It seems so, especially as it is now guessed that Caleb fought the
+Captain Marcus upon your account. Oh! that tale is talked of--for one
+thing, the young wild-cat left a claw behind him which the gardener
+found."
+
+"I trust then it is known also that the fault was none of mine. But,
+Nou, whither shall we go who have neither friends, nor home, nor
+money?"
+
+"I know not; but doubtless in this wall also there is a door. If the
+worst comes to the worst, a Christian has many brothers; moreover,
+with your skill in the arts you need never lack for a living in any
+great city in the world."
+
+"It is true," said Miriam, brightening; "that is, if I may believe
+Marcus and my old master."
+
+"Also," continued Nehushta, "I have still almost all the gold that the
+Phœnician Amram gave us when I fled with your mother, and added to it
+that which I took from the strong box of the captain of the galley on
+the night when you were born. So have no fear, we shall not want; nor
+indeed would the Essenes suffer such a thing. Now, child, you are
+weary; go to rest and dream that you have your lover back again."
+
+
+
+It was with a heavy heart that Caleb, defeated and shamed, shook the
+dust of the village of the Essenes off his feet. At dawn on the
+morning after the night that he had fought the duel with Marcus, he
+also might have been seen, a staff in his bandaged hand and a bag of
+provisions over his shoulder, standing upon the little ridge and
+gazing towards the house which sheltered Miriam. In love and war
+things had gone ill with him, so ill that at the thought of his
+discomfiture he ground his teeth. Miriam cared nothing for him; Marcus
+had defeated him at the first encounter and given him his life; while,
+worst of all, these two from whom he had endured so much loved each
+other. Few, perhaps, have suffered more sharply than he suffered in
+that hour; for what agonies are there like those of disappointed love
+and the shame of defeat when endured in youth? With time most men grow
+accustomed to disaster and rebuff. The colt that seems to break its
+heart at the cut of a whip, will hobble at last to the knacker unmoved
+by a shower of blows.
+
+While Caleb looked, the red rim of the sun rose above the horizon,
+flooding the world with light and life. Now birds began to chirp, and
+beasts to move; now the shadows fled away. Caleb's impressionable
+nature answered to this change. Hope stirred in his breast, even the
+pain of his maimed hand was forgotten.
+
+"I will win yet," he shouted to the silent sky; "my troubles are done
+with. I will shine like the sun; I will rule like the sun, and my
+enemies shall whither beneath my power. It is a good omen. Now I am
+glad that the Roman spared my life, that in a day to come I may take
+his--and Miriam."
+
+Then he turned and trudged onward through the glorious sunlight,
+watching his own shadow that stretched away before him.
+
+"It goes far," he said again; "this also is a very good omen."
+
+Caleb thought much on his way to Jerusalem; moreover he talked with
+all whom he met, even with bandits and footpads whom his poverty could
+not tempt, for he desired to learn how matters stood in the land.
+Arrived in Jerusalem he sought out the home of that lady who had been
+his mother's friend and who gave him over, a helpless orphan, to the
+care of the Essenes. He found that she was dead, but her son lived, a
+man of kind heart and given to hospitality, who had heard his story
+and sheltered him for his mother's sake. When his hand was healed and
+he procured some good clothes and a little money from his friend,
+without saying anything of his purpose, Caleb attended the court of
+Gessius Florus, the Roman procurator, at his palace, seeking an
+opportunity to speak with him.
+
+Thrice did he wait thus for hours at a time, on each occasion to be
+driven away at last by the guards. On his fourth visit he was more
+fortunate, for Florus, who had noted him before, asked why he stood
+there so patiently. An officer replied that the man had a petition to
+make.
+
+"Let me hear it then," said the governor. "I sit in this place to
+administer justice by the grace and in the name of Cæsar."
+
+Accordingly, Caleb was summoned and found himself in the presence of a
+small, dark-eyed, beetle-browed Roman with cropped hair, who looked
+what he was--one of the most evil rulers that ever held power in
+Judæa.
+
+"What do you seek, Jew?" he asked in a harsh voice.
+
+"What I am assured I shall find at your hands, O most noble Florus,
+justice against the Jews--pure justice"; words at which the courtiers
+and guards tittered, and even Florus smiled.
+
+"It is to be had at a price," he replied.
+
+"I am prepared to pay the price."
+
+"Then set out your case."
+
+So Caleb set it out. He told how many years before his father had been
+accidentally slain in a tumult, and how he, the son, being but an
+infant, certain Jews of the Zealots had seized and divided his estate
+on the ground that his father was a partisan of the Romans, leaving
+him, the son, to be brought up by charity--which estate, consisting of
+tracts of rich lands and certain house property in Jerusalem and Tyre,
+was still in their possession or in that of their descendants.
+
+The black eyes of Florus glistened as he heard.
+
+"Their names," he said, snatching at his tablets. But as yet Caleb was
+not minded to give the names. First, he intimated that he desired to
+arrive at a formal agreement as to what proportion of the property, if
+recovered, would be handed over to him, the heir. Then followed much
+haggling; but in the end it was agreed that as he had been robbed
+because his father was supposed to favour the Romans, the lands and a
+large dwelling with warehouse attached, at Tyre, together with one-
+half the back rents, if recoverable, should be given to the plaintiff.
+The governor, or as he put it, Cæsar, for his share was to retain the
+property in Jerusalem and the other half of the rents. In this
+arrangement Caleb proved himself, as usual, prescient. Houses, as he
+explained afterwards, could be burned or pulled down, but beyond the
+crops on it, land no man could injure. Then, after the agreement had
+been duly signed and witnessed, he gave the names, bringing forward
+good testimony to prove all that he had said.
+
+Within a week those Jews who had committed the theft, or their
+descendants, were in prison, whence they did not emerge till they had
+been stripped, not only of the stolen property, but of everything else
+that they possessed. Either because he was pleased at so great and
+unexpected a harvest, or perhaps for the reason that he saw in Caleb
+an able fellow who might be useful in the future, Florus fulfilled his
+bargain with him to the letter.
+
+Thus it came about that by a strange turn of the wheel of chance,
+within a month of his flight from the colony of the Essenes, Caleb,
+the outcast orphan, with his neck in danger of the sword, became a man
+of influence, having great possessions. His sun had risen indeed.
+
+
+
+                              CHAPTER X
+
+                                BENONI
+
+A while later Caleb, no longer a solitary wanderer with only his feet
+to carry him, his staff to protect him, and a wallet to supply him
+with food, but a young and gallant gentleman, well-armed, clad in furs
+and a purple cloak, accompanied by servants and riding a splendid
+horse, once more passed the walls of Jerusalem. On the rising ground
+beyond the Damascus gate he halted and looked back at the glorious
+city with her crowded streets, her mighty towers, her luxurious
+palaces, and her world-famed temple that dominated all, which from
+here seemed as a mountain covered with snow and crowned with
+glittering gold.
+
+"I will rule there when the Romans have been driven out," he said to
+himself, for already Caleb had grown very ambitious. Indeed, the
+wealth and the place that had come to him so suddenly, with which many
+men would have been satisfied, did but serve to increase his appetite
+for power, fame, and all good things. To him this money was but a
+stepping-stone to greater fortunes.
+
+Caleb was journeying to Tyre to take possession of his house there,
+which the Roman commander of the district had been bidden to hand over
+to him. Also he had another object. At Tyre dwelt the old Jew, Benoni,
+who was Miriam's grandfather, as he had discovered years before; for
+when they were still children together she had told him all her story.
+This Benoni, for reasons of his own, he desired to see.
+
+
+
+On a certain afternoon in one of the palaces of Tyre a man might have
+been sitting in a long portico, or verandah as we should call it,
+which overlooked the Mediterranean, whose blue waters lapped the
+straight-scarped rock below--for this house was in the island city,
+not in that of the mainland where most of the rich Syrians dwelt.
+
+The man was old and very handsome. His dark eyes were quick and full
+of fire, his nose was hooked like the beak of a bird of prey, his hair
+and beard were long and snowy white. His robes also were rich and
+splendid, and over them, since at this season of the year even at Tyre
+it was cold, he wore a cloak of costly northern furs. The house was
+worthy of its owner. Built throughout of the purest marble, the rooms
+were roofed and panelled with sweet-smelling cedar of Lebanon, whence
+hung many silver lamps, and decorated by statuary and frescoes. On the
+marble floors were spread rugs, beautifully wrought in colours, while
+here and there stood couches, tables and stools, fashioned for the
+most part of ebony from Libya, inlaid with ivory and pearl.
+
+Benoni, the owner of all this wealth, having finished his business for
+that day--the taking count of a shipload of merchandise which had
+reached him from Egypt--had eaten his midday meal and now sought his
+couch under the portico to rest a while in the sun. Reclining on the
+cushions, soon he was asleep; but it would seem that his dreams were
+unhappy--at the least he turned from side to side muttering and moving
+his hands. At last he sat up with a start.
+
+"Oh, Rachel, Rachel!" he moaned, "why will you haunt my sleep? Oh! my
+child, my child, have I not suffered enough? Must you bring my sin
+back to me in this fashion? May I not shut my eyes even here in the
+sunlight and be at peace a while? What have you to tell me that you
+come thus often to stand here so strengthless and so still? Nay, it is
+not you; it is my sin that wears your shape!" and Benoni hid his face
+in his hands, rocking himself to and fro and moaning aloud.
+
+Presently he sprang up. "It was no sin," he said, "it was a righteous
+act. I offered her to the outraged majesty of Jehovah, as Abraham, our
+father, would have offered Isaac, but the curse of that false prophet
+is upon me and mine. That was the fault of Demas, the half-bred hound
+who crept into my kennel, and whom, because she loved him, I gave to
+her as husband. Thus did he repay me, the traitor, and I--I repaid
+him. Ay! But the sword fell upon two necks. He should have suffered,
+and he alone. Oh, Rachel, my lost daughter Rachel, forgive me, you
+whose bones lie there beneath the sea, forgive me! I cannot bear those
+eyes of yours. I am old, Rachel, I am old."
+
+Thus Benoni muttered to himself, as he walked swiftly to and fro;
+then, worn out with his burst of solitary, dream-bred passion, he sank
+back upon the couch.
+
+As he sat thus, an Arab doorkeeper, gorgeously apparelled and armed
+with a great sword, appeared in the portico, and after looking
+carefully to see that his master was not asleep, made a low salaam.
+
+"What is it?" asked Benoni shortly.
+
+"Master, a young lord named Caleb wishes speech with you."
+
+"Caleb? I know not the name," replied Benoni. "Stay, it must be the
+son of Hilliel, whom the Roman governor"--and turning, he spat upon
+the ground--"has brought to his own again. I heard that he had come to
+take possession of the great house on the quay. Bring him hither."
+
+The Arab saluted and went. Presently he returned and ushered in Caleb,
+now a noble-looking young man clad in fine raiment. Benoni bowed to
+him and prayed him to be seated. Caleb bowed in return, touching his
+forehead in Eastern fashion with his hand, from which, as his host
+noticed, the forefinger was missing.
+
+"I am your servant, sir," said Benoni with grave courtesy.
+
+"Master, I am your slave," answered Caleb. "I have been told that you
+knew my father; therefore, on this, my first visit to Tyre, I come to
+make my respects to you. I am the son of Hilliel, who perished many
+years ago in Jerusalem. You may have heard his story and mine."
+
+"Yes," answered Benoni scanning his visitor, "I knew Hilliel--a clever
+man, but one who fell into a trap at last, and I see that you are his
+son. Your face proves it; indeed, it might be Hilliel who stands
+before me."
+
+"I am proud that you should say so," answered Caleb, though already he
+guessed that between Benoni and his father no love had been lost. "You
+know," he added, "that certain of our people seized my inheritance,
+which now has been restored to me--in part."
+
+"By Gessius Florus the procurator, I think, who on this account, has
+cast many Jews--some of them innocent--into prison."
+
+"Indeed! Is that so? Well, it was concerning this Florus that I came
+chiefly to ask your advice. The Roman has kept a full half of my
+property," and Caleb sighed and looked indignant.
+
+"You are indeed fortunate that he has not kept it all."
+
+"I have been brought up in the desert far from cities," pleaded Caleb.
+"Is there no law by which I may have justice of this man? Cannot you
+help me who are great among our people?"
+
+"None," answered Benoni. "Roman citizens have rights, Jews what they
+can get. You can appeal to Cæsar if you wish, as the jackal appealed
+to the lion. But if you are wise you will be content with half the
+carcase. Also I am not great; I am but an old merchant without
+authority."
+
+Caleb looked downfallen. "It seems that the days are hard for us
+Jews," he said. "Well, I will be content and strive to forgive my
+enemies."
+
+"Better be content and strive to smite your enemies," answered Benoni.
+"You who were poor are rich; for this much thank God."
+
+"Night and morning I do thank Him," replied Caleb earnestly and with
+truth.
+
+Then there was silence for a while.
+
+"Is it your intention to reside in Hezron's--I mean in your house--in
+Tyre?" asked Benoni, breaking it.
+
+"For a time, perhaps, until I find a tenant. I am not accustomed to
+towns, and at present they seem to stifle me."
+
+"Where were you brought up, sir?"
+
+"Among the Essenes by Jericho. But I am not an Essene--their creed
+disgusted me; I belong to that of my fathers."
+
+"There are worse men," replied Benoni. "A brother of my late wife is
+an Essene, a kindly natured fool named Ithiel; you may have known
+him."
+
+"Oh, yes, I know him. He is one of their curators and the guardian of
+the lady Miriam, his great-niece."
+
+The old man started violently, then, recovering himself, said:
+
+"Forgive me, but Miriam was the name of my lost wife--one which it
+disturbs me to hear. But how can this girl be Ithiel's grand-niece? He
+had no relations except his sister."
+
+"I do not know," answered Caleb carelessly. "The story is that the
+lady Miriam, whom they call the Queen of the Essenes, was brought to
+them nineteen or twenty years ago by a Libyan woman named Nehushta,"--
+here again Benoni started--"who said that the child's mother, Ithiel's
+niece, had been shipwrecked and died after giving birth to the infant,
+commanding that it should be brought to him to be reared. The Essenes
+consenting, he accepted the charge, and there she is still."
+
+"Then is this lady Miriam an Essene?" asked Benoni in a thick, slow
+voice.
+
+"No; she is of the sect of the Christians, in which faith she has been
+brought up as her mother desired."
+
+The old man rose from his couch and walked up and down the portico.
+
+"Tell me of the lady Miriam, sir," he said presently, "for the tale
+interests me. What is she like?"
+
+"She is, as I believe, the most beautiful maiden in the whole world,
+though small and slight; also she is the most sweet and learned."
+
+"That is high praise, sir," said Benoni.
+
+"Yes, master, and perhaps I exaggerate her charms, as is but natural."
+
+"Why is it natural?"
+
+"Because we were brought up together, and I hope that one day she will
+be my wife."
+
+"Are you then affianced to this maid?"
+
+"No, not affianced--as yet," replied Caleb, with a little smile; "but
+I will not trouble you with a history of my love affairs. I have
+already trespassed too long upon your kindness. It is something to ask
+of you who may not desire my acquaintance, but if you will do me the
+honour to sup with me to-morrow night, your servant will be grateful."
+
+"I thank you, young sir. I will come, I will come, for in truth," he
+added hastily, "I am anxious to hear news of all that passes at
+Jerusalem, which, I understand, you left but a few days since, and I
+perceive that you are one whose eyes and ears are always open."
+
+"I try both to see and to hear," said Caleb modestly. "But I am very
+inexperienced, and am not sure which cause a man who hopes to become
+both wise and good, ought to espouse in these troubled days. I need
+guidance such as you could give me if you wished. For this while,
+farewell."
+
+Benoni watched his visitor depart, then once more began to wander up
+and down the portico.
+
+"I do not trust that young man," he thought, "of whose doings I have
+heard something; but he is rich and able, and may be of service to our
+cause. This Miriam of whom he speaks, who can she be? unless, indeed,
+Rachel bore a daughter before she died. Why not? She would not have
+left it to my care who desired that it should be reared in her own
+accursed faith and looked upon me as the murderer of her husband and
+herself. If so, I who thought myself childless, yet have issue upon
+the earth--at least there is one in whom my blood runs. Beautiful,
+gifted--but a Christian! The sin of the parents has descended on the
+child--yes, the curse is on her also. I must seek her out. I must know
+the truth. Man, what is it now? Can you not see that I would be
+alone?"
+
+"Master, your pardon," said the Arab servant, bowing, "but the Roman
+captain, Marcus, desires speech with you."
+
+"Marcus? Oh, I remember the officer who was stationed here. I am not
+well, I cannot see him. Bid him come to-morrow."
+
+"Master, he bid me say that he sails for Rome to-night."
+
+"Well, well, admit him," answered Benoni. "Perchance he comes to pay
+his debt," he added.
+
+The Arab departed, and presently the Roman was ushered in.
+
+"Greetings, Benoni," he said, with his pleasant smile. "Here am I, yet
+alive, for all your fears; so you see your money is still safe."
+
+"I am glad to hear it, my lord Marcus," answered the Jew, bowing low.
+"But if it will please you to produce it, with the interest, I think,"
+he added drily, "it may be even safer in my strongbox."
+
+Marcus laughed pleasantly.
+
+"Produce it?" he said. "What jest is this? Why, I come to borrow more
+to defray my costs to Rome."
+
+Benoni's mouth shut like a trap.
+
+"Nay," said Marcus, holding up his hand, "don't begin. I know it all.
+The times are full of trouble and danger. Such little ready cash as
+you have at command is out at interest in safer countries--Egypt,
+Rome, and Italy; your correspondent at Alexandria has failed to make
+you the expected remittance; and you have reason to believe that every
+ship in which you are concerned is now at the bottom of the ocean. So
+would you be so good as to lend me half a talent of silver--a thousand
+shekels in cash and the rest in bills of exchange on your agents at
+Brundisium?"
+
+"No," said Benoni, sternly.
+
+"Yes," replied Marcus, with conviction. "Look you, friend Benoni, the
+security is excellent. If I don't get drowned, or have my throat slit
+between here and Italy, I am going to be one of the richest men in
+Rome; so this is your last chance of lending me a trifle. You don't
+believe it? Then read this letter from Caius, my uncle, and this
+rescript signed by Nero the Cæsar."
+
+Benoni perused the documents and returned them.
+
+"I offer you my congratulations," he said. "If God permits it and you
+will walk steadily, your future should be brilliant, since you are of
+a pleasant countenance, and when you choose to use it, behind that
+countenance lies a brain. But here I see no security for my money,
+since even if all things go right, Italy is a long way off."
+
+"Man, do you think that I should cheat you?" asked Marcus hotly.
+
+"No, no, but accidents might happen."
+
+"Well, I will make it worth your while to risk them. For the half-
+talent write a talent charged upon my estate, whether I live or die.
+And be swift, I pray you, for I have matters to speak of, of more
+importance than this miserable money. Whilst I was commissioner among
+the Essenes on the banks of Jordan----"
+
+"The Essenes! What of the Essenes?" broke in Benoni.
+
+Marcus considered him with his grey eyes, then answered:
+
+"Let us settle this little matter of business and I will tell you."
+
+"Good. It is settled; you shall have the acknowledgment to sign and
+the consideration in cash and bills before you leave my house. Now
+what of these Essenes?"
+
+"Only this," said Marcus; "they are a strange people who read the
+future, I know not how. One of them with whom I became friendly,
+foretold that mighty troubles were about to fall upon this land of
+yours--slaughter and pestilence, and famine, such as the world has not
+seen."
+
+"That is an old prophecy of those accursed Nazarenes," broke in
+Benoni.
+
+"Call them not accursed, friend," said Marcus, in an odd voice, "for
+you should do so least of all men. Nay, hear me out. It may be a
+prophecy of the Nazarenes, but it is also a prophecy of the Essenes,
+and I believe it, who watch the signs of the times. Now the elder told
+me this, that there will be a great uprising of the Jews against the
+strength of Cæsar, and that most of those who join in it shall perish.
+He even gave names, and among them was yours, friend Benoni.
+Therefore, because you have lent me money, although I am a Roman, I
+have come to Tyre to warn you to keep clear of rebellions and other
+tumults."
+
+The old man listened quietly, but not as one who disbelieves.
+
+"All this may be so," he said, "but if my name is written in that book
+of the dead, the angel of Jehovah has chosen me, and I cannot escape
+his sword. Moreover, I am aged, and"--here his eyes flashed--"it is a
+good end to die fighting one's country's enemies."
+
+"How you Jews do love us to be sure!" said Marcus with a little laugh.
+
+"The nation that sends a Gessius Florus, or even an Albinus, to rule
+its alien subjects must needs be loved," replied Benoni with bitter
+sarcasm. "But let us be done with politics lest we grow angry. It is
+strange, but a visitor has just left me who was brought up among these
+Essenes."
+
+"Indeed," said Marcus, staring vacantly into the sea.
+
+"He told me that a young and beautiful woman resides with them who is
+named the Queen of the Essenes. Did you chance to see her, my lord?"
+
+Instantly Marcus became very wide awake. "Oh, yes, I saw her; and what
+else did he tell you?"
+
+"He told me that this lady was both beautiful and learned."
+
+"That is true," said Marcus with enthusiasm. "To my mind, although she
+is small, I never saw one lovelier, nor do I know a sculptor who is
+her equal. If you will come with me to the ship I will open the case
+and show you the bust she made of me. But tell me, did this visitor of
+yours lack the forefinger on one hand--his right?"
+
+"He did."
+
+"Then I suppose that he is named Caleb."
+
+"Yes; but how do you know that?"
+
+"Because I cut off his forefinger," said Marcus, "in a fair fight,
+and," he added savagely, "he is a young rascal, as murderous as he is
+able, whose life I did ill to spare."
+
+"Ah," said Benoni, "it seems that I have still some discernment, for
+just so I judged him. Well, what more do you know of the lady?"
+
+"Something, since in a way I am affianced to her."
+
+"Indeed! Well, this is strange, for so, as he told me, is Caleb."
+
+"He told you that?" said Marcus springing from his chair. "Then he
+lies, and would that I had time to prove it on his body! She rejected
+him; I have it from Nehushta; also I know it in other ways."
+
+"Then she did accept you, my lord Marcus?"
+
+"Not quite," he replied sadly; "but that was only because I am not a
+Christian. She loves me all the same," he added, recovering. "Upon
+that point there can be no doubt."
+
+"Caleb seemed to doubt it," suggested Benoni.
+
+"Caleb is a liar," repeated Marcus with emphasis, "and one of whom you
+will do well to beware."
+
+"Why should I beware of him?"
+
+Marcus paused a moment, then answered boldly:
+
+"Because the lady Miriam is your granddaughter and the heiress of your
+wealth. I say it, since if I did not Caleb would; probably he has done
+so already."
+
+For a moment Benoni hid his face in his hands. Then he lifted it and
+said:
+
+"I thought as much, and now I am sure. But, my lord Marcus, if my
+blood is hers my wealth is my own."
+
+"Just so. Keep it if you will, or leave it where you will. It is
+Miriam I seek, and not your money."
+
+"I think that Caleb seeks both Miriam and my money--like a prudent
+man. Why should he not have them? He is a Jew of good blood; he will,
+I think, rise high."
+
+"And I am a Roman of better blood who will rise higher."
+
+"Yes, a Roman, and I, the grandfather, am a Jew who do not love you
+Romans."
+
+"And Miriam is neither Jew nor Roman, but a Christian, brought up not
+by you, but by the Essenes; and she loves me, although she will not
+marry me because I am not a Christian."
+
+Benoni shrugged his shoulders as he answered:
+
+"All of this is a problem which I must ponder on and solve."
+
+Marcus sprang from his seat and stood before the old man with menace
+in his air.
+
+"Look you, Benoni," he said, "this is a problem not to be solved by
+you or by Caleb, but by Miriam herself, and none other. Do you
+understand?"
+
+"I understand that you threaten me."
+
+"Ay, I do. Miriam is of full age; her sojourn with the Essenes must
+come to an end. Doubtless you will take her to dwell with you. Well,
+beware how you deal by her. If she wishes to marry Caleb of her own
+free will, let her do so. But if you force her to it, or suffer him to
+force her, then by your God, and by my gods, and by her God, I tell
+you that I will come back and take such a vengeance upon him and upon
+you, and upon all your people, that it shall be a story for
+generations. Do you believe me?"
+
+Benoni looked up at the man who stood before him in his youth and
+beauty, his eyes on fire and his form quivering with rage, and
+looking, shrank back a little. He did not know that this light-hearted
+Roman had such strength and purpose at command. Now he understood for
+the first time that he was a true son of the terrible race of
+conquerors, who, if he were crossed, could be as merciless as the
+worst of them, one whose very honesty and openness made him to be
+feared the more.
+
+"I understand that you believe what you say. Whether when you are back
+at Rome, where there are women as fair as the Queen of the Essenes,
+you will continue to believe it, is another matter."
+
+"Yes, a matter for me to settle."
+
+"Quite so--for you to settle. Have you anything to add to the commands
+you are pleased to lay upon your humble creditor, Benoni the
+merchant?"
+
+"Yes, two things. First, that when I leave this house you will no
+longer be my creditor. I have brought money to pay you off in full,
+principal and interest. My talk of borrowing was but a play and excuse
+to learn what you knew of Miriam. Nay, do not start, though it may
+seem strange to you that I also can be subtle. Foolish man, did you
+think that I with my prospects should be left to lack for a miserable
+half-talent? Why, there at Jerusalem I could have borrowed ten, or
+twenty, if I would promise my patronage by way of interest. My
+servants wait with the gold without. Call them in presently and pay
+yourself, principal and interest, and something for a bonus. Now for
+the second, Miriam is a Christian. Beware how you tamper with her
+faith. It is not mine, but I say--beware how you tamper with it. You
+gave her father and her mother, your own daughter, to be slaughtered
+by gladiators and to be torn by lions because, forsooth, they did not
+think as you do. Lift one finger against her and I will hale you into
+the amphitheatre at Rome, there yourself to be slaughtered by
+gladiators, or to be torn by lions. Although I am absent I shall know
+all that you do, for I have friends who are good and spies that are
+better. Moreover, I return here shortly. Now I ask you, will you give
+me your solemn word, swearing it by that God whom you worship, first,
+that you will not attempt to force your granddaughter Miriam into
+marriage with Caleb the Jew; and secondly, that you will shelter her,
+treating her with all honour, and suffering her to follow her own
+faith in freedom?"
+
+Benoni sprang from his couch.
+
+"No, Roman, I will not. Who are you who dare to dictate to me in my
+own house as to how I shall deal with my own grandchild? Pay what you
+owe and get you gone, and darken my doors no more. I have done with
+you."
+
+"Ah!" said Marcus. "Well, perhaps it is time that you should travel.
+Those who travel and see strange countries and peoples, grow liberal-
+minded, which you are not. Be pleased to read this paper," and he laid
+a writing before him.
+
+Benoni took it and read. It was worded thus:
+
+ "To Marcus, the son of Emilius, the captain, in the name of Cæsar,
+  greetings. Hereby we command you, should you in your discretion
+  think fit, to seize the person of Benoni, the Jewish merchant, a
+  dweller in Tyre, and to convey him as a prisoner to Rome, there to
+  answer charges which have been laid against him, with the
+  particulars of which you are acquainted, which said particulars
+  you will find awaiting you in Rome, of having conspired with
+  certain other Jews, to overthrow the authority of Cæsar in this
+  his province of Judæa.
+
+                          "(Signed)     Gessius Florus, Procurator."
+
+Benoni having read sank back upon his couch, gasping, his white face
+livid with surprise and fear. Then a thought seemed to strike him.
+Seizing the paper he tore it into fragments.
+
+"Now, Roman," he said, "where is your warrant?"
+
+"In my pocket," answered Marcus; "that which I showed you was but a
+copy. Nay, do not ring, do not touch that bell. See this," and he drew
+a silver whistle from his robe. "Outside your gate stand fifty
+soldiers. Shall I sound it?"
+
+"Not so," answered Benoni. "I will swear the oath, though indeed it is
+needless. Why should you suppose that I could wish to force this maid
+into any marriage, or to work her evil on account of matters of her
+faith?"
+
+"Because you are a Jew and a bigot. You gave her father and her mother
+to a cruel death, why should you spare her? Also you hate me and all
+my people; why, then, should you not favour my rival, although he is a
+murderer whose life I have twice spared at the prayer of Miriam? Swear
+now."
+
+So Benoni lifted his hand and swore a solemn oath that he would not
+force his granddaughter, Miriam, to marry Caleb, or any other man; and
+that he would not betray the secret of her faith, or persecute her
+because of it.
+
+"It is not enough," said Marcus. "Write it down and sign."
+
+So Benoni went to the table and wrote out his undertaking and signed
+it, Marcus signing also as a witness.
+
+"Now, Benoni," he said, as he took the paper, "listen to me. That
+warrant leaves your taking to my discretion, after I have made search
+into the facts. I have made such search and it seems that I am not
+satisfied. But remember that the warrant is still alive and can be
+executed at any moment. Remember also that you are watched and if you
+lift a finger against the girl, it will be put in force. For the rest
+--if you desire that the prophecy of the Essene should not come true,
+it is my advice that you cease from making plots against the majesty
+of Cæsar. Now bid your servant summon him who waits in the
+antechamber, that he may discharge my debt. And so farewell. When and
+where we shall meet again I do not know, but be sure that we shall
+meet." Then Marcus left the portico.
+
+Benoni watched him go, and as he watched, an evil look gathered on his
+face.
+
+"Threatened. Trodden to the dirt. Outwitted by that Roman boy," he
+murmured. "Is there any cup of shame left for me to drink? Who is the
+traitor and how much does he know? Something, but not all, else my
+arrest could scarcely have been left to the fancy of this patrician,
+favourite though he be. Yes, my lord Marcus, I too am sure that we
+shall meet again, but the fashion of that meeting may be little to
+your taste. You have had your hour, mine is to come. For the rest, I
+must keep my oath, since to break it would be too dangerous, and might
+cut the hair that holds the sword. Also, why should I wish to harm the
+girl, or to wed her to this rogue Caleb, than whom, mayhap, even the
+Roman would be better? At least he is a man who does not cheat or lie.
+Indeed, I long to see the maid. I will go at once to Jordan."
+
+Then he sounded his bell and commanded that the servant of the lord
+Marcus should be admitted.
+
+
+
+                              CHAPTER XI
+
+                     THE ESSENES LOSE THEIR QUEEN
+
+The Court of the Essenes was gathered in council debating the subject
+of the departure of their ward, Miriam. She must go, that was evident,
+since not even for her, whom they loved as though each of them had
+been in truth her father or her uncle, could their ancient, sacred
+rule be broken. But where was she to go and how should she be
+supported as became her? These were the questions that troubled them
+and that they debated earnestly. At length her great-uncle Ithiel
+suggested that she should be summoned before them, that they might
+hear her wishes. To this his brethren agreed, and he was sent to fetch
+her.
+
+A while later, attended by Nehushta, Miriam arrived, clad in a robe of
+pure white, and wearing on her head a wimple of white, edged with
+purple, and about her waist a purple scarf. So greatly did the Essenes
+love and reverence this maid, that as she entered, all the hundred of
+the Court rose and remaining standing until she herself was seated.
+Then the President, who was sorrowful and even shamefaced, addressed
+her, telling her their trouble, and praying her pardon because the
+ordinance of their order forced them to arrange that she should depart
+from among them. At the end of this speech he asked her what were her
+wishes as regarded her own future, adding that for her maintenance she
+need have no fear, since out of their revenues a modest sum would be
+set aside annually which would suffice to keep her from poverty.
+
+In answer Miriam, also speaking sadly, thanked them from her heart for
+all their goodness, telling them she had long known this hour of
+separation to be at hand. As to where she should dwell, since tumults
+were so many in Jerusalem, she suggested that she might find a home in
+one of the coast cities, where perhaps some friend or relative of the
+brethren would shelter Nehushta and herself.
+
+Instantly eight or ten of those present said that they knew such
+trusty folk in one place or another, and the various offers were
+submitted to the Court for discussion. While the talk was still going
+on there came a knock upon the door. After the usual questions and
+precautions, a brother was admitted who informed them that there had
+arrived in the village, at the head of a considerable retinue, Benoni,
+the Jewish merchant of Tyre. He stated that he desired speech with
+them on the subject of his granddaughter Miriam, who, he learned, was,
+or had been recently, in their charge.
+
+"Here may be an answer to the riddle," said the President. "We know of
+this Benoni, also that he purposed to demand his granddaughter of us,
+though until he did so it was not for us to speak." Then he put it to
+the Court that Benoni should be admitted.
+
+To this they agreed, and presently the Jew came, splendidly attired,
+his long white beard flowing down a robe that glittered with
+embroideries of gold and silver. Entering the dim, cool hall, he
+stared in amazement at the long half-circles of venerable, white-robed
+men who were gathered there. Next his quick eyes fell upon the lovely
+maiden who, attended by the dark-visaged Nehushta, sat before them on
+a seat of honour; and looking, he guessed that she must be Miriam.
+
+"Little wonder," reflected Benoni to himself, "that all men seem to
+love this girl, since at the first sight of her my own heart softens."
+
+Then he bowed to the President of the Court and the President bowed
+back in answer. But not one of the rest so much as moved his head,
+since already every man of them hated this stranger who was about to
+carry away her whom they called their Queen.
+
+"Sirs," said Benoni breaking the silence, "I come here upon a strange
+errand--namely, to ask of you a maid whom I believe to be my
+granddaughter, of whose existence I learned not long ago, and whom, as
+it seems, you have sheltered from her birth. Is she among you here?"
+and he looked at Miriam.
+
+"The lady Miriam sits yonder," said the President. "You are right in
+naming her your granddaughter, as we have known her to be from the
+beginning."
+
+"Then why," said Benoni, "did I not know it also?"
+
+"Because," answered the President quietly, "we did not think it
+fitting to deliver a child that was committed to our charge, to the
+care of one who had brought her father, and tried to bring her mother,
+his own seed, to the most horrible of deaths."
+
+As he spoke he fixed his eyes indignantly upon Benoni; as did every
+man of all that great company, till even the bold-faced Jew dropped
+his head abashed.
+
+"I am not here," he said, recovering himself, "to make defence of what
+I have done, or have not done in the past. I am here to demand that my
+grandchild, now as I perceive a woman grown, may be handed over to me,
+her natural guardian."
+
+"Before this can be considered," answered the President, "we who have
+been her guardians for so many years, should require guarantees and
+sureties."
+
+"What guarantees, and what sureties?" asked Benoni.
+
+"These among others--That money sufficient for her support after your
+death should be settled upon her. That she shall be left reasonable
+liberty in the matter of her daily life and her marriage, if it should
+please her to marry. Lastly, that as we have undertaken not to meddle
+with her faith, or to oppress her into changing it, so must you
+undertake also."
+
+"And if I refuse these things?" asked Benoni.
+
+"Then you see the lady Miriam for the first and last time," answered
+the President boldly, while the others nodded approval. "We are men of
+peace, but, merchant, you must not, therefore, think us men without
+power. We must part with the lady Miriam, who to every one of us is as
+a daughter, because the unbreakable rule of our order ordains that
+she, who is now a woman grown, can no longer remain among us. But
+wherever she dwells, to the last day of her life our love shall go
+with her and the whole strength of our Order shall protect her. If any
+harm is attempted to her, we shall be swift to hear and swifter to
+avenge. If you refuse our conditions, she will vanish from your sight,
+and then, merchant, go, search the world, the coasts of Syria, the
+banks of Egypt, and the cities of Italy--and find her if you can. We
+have spoken."
+
+Benoni stroked his white beard before he answered.
+
+"You talk proudly," he said. "Did I shut my eyes I might fancy that
+this voice was the voice of a Roman procurator speaking the decrees of
+Cæsar. Still, I am ready to believe that what you promise you can
+perform, since I for one am sure that you Essenes are not mere
+harmless heretics who worship angels and demons, see visions, prophesy
+things to come by the help of your familiars, and adore the sun in
+huts upon the desert." He paused, but the President, without taking
+the slightest notice of his insults or sarcasms, repeated merely:
+
+"We have spoken," and as with one voice, like some great echo, the
+whole hundred of them cried, "We have spoken!"
+
+"Do you hear them, master?" said Nehushta in the silence that
+followed. "Well, I know them. They mean what they say, and you are
+right--what which they threaten they can perform."
+
+"Let my grandchild speak," said Benoni. "Daughter, is it your wish
+that such dishonouring bonds should be laid upon me?"
+
+"Grandsire," replied Miriam, in a pure, clear voice, "I may not
+quarrel with that which is done for my own good. For the wealth I care
+little, but I would not become a slave in everything save the name,
+nor do I desire to set my feet in that path my parents trod. What my
+uncles say--all of these"--and she waved her hand--"speaking in the
+name of the thousands that are without, that I do, for they love me
+and I love them, and their mind is my mind and their words are my
+words."
+
+"Proud-spirited, and well spoken, like all her race," muttered Benoni.
+Still he stroked his beard and hesitated.
+
+"Be pleased to give your answer," said the President, "that we may
+finish our discussion before the hour of evening prayer. To help you
+to it, remember one thing--we ask no new conditions." Benoni glanced
+up quickly and the President added: "Those of which we have received a
+copy, that you swore to and signed in the presence of Marcus the
+Roman, are enough for us."
+
+Now it was Miriam's turn to look, first up and then down. As for her
+grandfather, he turned white with anger, and broke into a bitter
+laugh.
+
+"Now I understand----"
+
+"----that the arm of the Essenes is longer than you thought, since it
+can reach from here to Rome," said the President.
+
+"Ay! that you can plot with Romans. Well, be careful lest the sword of
+these Romans prove longer than /you/ thought and reach even to your
+hearts, O you peaceful dwellers in the desert!" Then, as though he
+feared some answer, he added quickly, "I am minded to return and leave
+this maiden with you to dispose of as you think fit. Yet I will not do
+so, for she is very fair and gracious, and with the wealth that I can
+give her, may fill some high place in the world. Also--and this is
+more to me--I am old and draw near my end and she alone has my blood
+in her veins. Therefore I will agree to all your terms, and take her
+home with me to Tyre, trusting that she may learn to love me."
+
+"Good," said the President. "To-morrow the papers shall be prepared
+and signed. Meanwhile we pray you to be our guest."
+
+Next evening signed they were accordingly, Benoni agreeing without
+demur to all that the Essenes asked on behalf of her who had been
+their ward, and even assigning to her a separate revenue during his
+lifetime. Indeed, now that he had seen her, so loth was he to part
+with this new-found daughter, that he would have done still more had
+it been asked of him, lest she should be spirited from his sight, as,
+did he refuse, might well happen.
+
+Three days later Miriam bade farewell to her protectors, who
+accompanied her by hundreds to the ridge above the village. Here they
+stopped, and seeing that the moment of separation was at hand,
+Miriam's tears began to flow.
+
+"Weep not, beloved child," said Ithiel, "for though we part with you
+in body, yet shall we always be with you in the spirit, now in this
+life, and as we think, after this life. Moreover, by night and day, we
+shall watch over you, and if any attempt to harm you--" here he
+glanced at Benoni, that brother-in-law to whom he bore but little love
+--"the very winds will bear us tidings, and in this way or that, help
+will come."
+
+"Have no fear, Ithiel," broke in Benoni, "my bond, which you hold, is
+good and it will be backed by love."
+
+"That I believe also," said Miriam; "and if it be so, grandsire, I
+will repay love for love." Then she turned to the Essenes and thanked
+them in broken words.
+
+"Be not downhearted," said Ithiel in a thick voice, "for I hope that
+even in this life we shall meet again."
+
+"May it be so," answered Miriam, and they parted, the Essenes
+returning sadly to their home, and Benoni taking the road through
+Jericho to Jerusalem.
+
+Travelling slowly, at the evening of the second day they set their
+camp on open ground not far from the Damascus gate of the Holy City,
+but within the new north wall that had been built by Agrippa. Into the
+city itself Benoni would not enter, fearing lest the Roman soldiers
+should plunder them. At moonrise Nehushta took Miriam by the hand and
+led her through the resting camels to a spot a few yards from the
+camp.
+
+There, standing with her back to the second wall, she pointed out to
+her a cliff, steep but of no great height, in which appeared little
+caves and ridges of rock that, looked at from this distance, gave to
+its face a rude resemblance to a human skull.
+
+"See," she said solemnly. "Yonder the Lord was crucified."
+
+Miriam heard and sank to her knees in prayer. As she knelt there the
+grave voice of her grandfather spoke behind her, bidding her rise.
+
+"Child," he said, "it is true. True is it also that signs and wonders
+happened after the death of that false Messiah, and that for me and
+mine He left a curse behind Him which it may well be is not done with
+yet. I know your faith, and I have promised to let you follow it in
+peace. Yet I beseech of you, do not make prayers to your God here in
+public, where with malefactors He suffered as a malefactor, lest
+others less tolerant should see you and drag you to your father's
+death."
+
+Miriam bowed her head and returned to the camp, nor at that time did
+any further words pass between them on this matter of her religion.
+Thenceforward, however, she was careful to do nothing which could
+bring suspicion on her grandfather.
+
+Four days later they came to the rich and beautiful city of Tyre, and
+Miriam saw the sea upon which she had been born. Hitherto, she had
+fancied that its waters were much like those of the Dead Lake, upon
+whose shores she had dwelt so many years; but when she perceived the
+billows rushing onwards, white-crested, to break in thunder against
+the walls of island Tyre, she clapped her hands with joy. Indeed, from
+that day to the end of her life she loved the sea in all its moods,
+and for hours at a time would find it sufficient company. Perhaps this
+was because the seethe of its waves was the first sound that her ears
+had heard, while her first breath was salted with its spray.
+
+From Jerusalem, Benoni had sent messengers mounted on swift horses
+bidding his servants make ready to receive a guest. So it came about
+that when she entered his palace in Tyre, Miriam found it decked as
+though for a bride, and wandered in amazement--she who had known
+nothing better than the mud-houses of the Essenes--from hall to hall
+of the ancient building that in bygone generations had been the home
+of kings and governors. Benoni followed her steps, watching her with
+grave eyes, till at length all was visited save the gardens belonging
+to him which were on the mainland.
+
+"Are you pleased with your new home, daughter?" he asked presently.
+
+"My grandfather, it is beautiful," she answered. "Never have I dreamed
+of such a place as this. Say, may I work my art in one of these great
+rooms?"
+
+"Miriam," he answered, "of this house henceforth you are the mistress,
+as in time to come you will be its owner. Believe me, child, it was
+not needed that so many and such different men should demand from me
+sureties for your comfort and your safety. All I have is yours, whilst
+all you have, including your faith and your friends, of whom there
+seem to be many, remains your own. Yet, should it please you to give
+me in return some small share of your love, I who am childless and
+friendless shall be grateful."
+
+"That is my desire," answered Miriam hurriedly; "only, grandsire,
+between you and me----"
+
+"Speak it not," he said, with a gesture almost of despair, "or rather
+I will speak it--between you and me runs the river of your parents'
+blood. It is so, yet, Miriam, I will confess to you that I repent me
+of that deed. Age makes us judge more kindly. To me your faith is
+nothing and your God a sham, yet I know now that to worship Him is not
+worthy of death--at least not for that cause would I bring any to
+their death to-day, or even to stripes and bonds. I will go further; I
+will stoop even to borrow from His creed. Do not His teachings bid you
+to forgive those who have done you wrong?"
+
+"They do, and that is why Christians love all mankind."
+
+"Then bring that law into this home of ours, Miriam, and love me who
+sorrow for what I did in the blind rage of my zeal, and who now in my
+old age am haunted by its memory."
+
+Then for the first time Miriam threw herself into the old man's arms
+and kissed him on the brow.
+
+So it came about that they made their peace and were happy together.
+
+Indeed, day by day Benoni loved her more, till at length she was
+everything to him, and he grew jealous of all who sought her company,
+and especially of Nehushta.
+
+
+
+                             CHAPTER XII
+
+                THE RING, THE NECKLACE AND THE LETTER
+
+So Miriam came to Tyre, where, for many months, her life was peaceful
+and happy enough. At first she had feared meeting Caleb, who she knew
+from her grandfather was dwelling there; but as it chanced, he had
+left the city upon business of his own, so for the while she was free
+of him. In Tyre were many Christians with whom she made friends and
+worshipped, Benoni pretending to know nothing of the matter. Indeed,
+at this time and place it was the Jews rather than the Christians who
+were in danger at the hands of the Syrians and Greeks, who hated them
+for their wealth and faith, threatening them continually with robbery
+and massacre. But as yet that storm did not burst, and in its brewing
+the Christians, who were few, humble, and of all races, escaped
+notice.
+
+Thus it came about that Miriam dwelt in quiet, occupying herself much
+with her art of modelling and going abroad but little, since it was
+scarcely safe for her, the grandchild of the rich Jew merchant, to
+show her face in the streets. Though she was surrounded by every
+luxury, far more than she needed, indeed, this lack of liberty irked
+her who had been reared in the desert, till at times she grew
+melancholy and would sit for hours looking on the sea and thinking.
+She thought of her mother who had sat thus before her; of her father,
+who had perished beneath the gladiators' swords; of the kindly old men
+who had nurtured her, and of the sufferings of her brothers and
+sisters in the faith in Rome and at Jerusalem. But most of all she
+thought of Marcus, her Roman lover, whom, strive as she would, she
+could never forget--no, not for a single hour. She loved him, that was
+the truth of it, and between them there was a great gulf fixed, not of
+the sea only, which ships could sail, but of that command which the
+dead had laid upon her. He was a pagan and she was a Christian, and
+they might not wed. By now, too, it was likely that he had forgotten
+her, the girl who took his fancy in the desert. At Rome there were
+many noble and lovely women--oh! she could scarcely bear to think of
+it. Yet night by night she prayed for him, and morn by morn his face
+arose before her half-awakened eyes. Where was he? What was he doing?
+For aught she knew he might be dead. Nay, for then, surely, her heart
+would have warned her. Still, she craved for tidings, and alas! there
+were none.
+
+At length tidings did come--the best of tidings. One day, wearying of
+the house, with the permission of her grandfather, and escorted by
+servants, Miriam had gone to walk in the gardens that he owned to the
+north of that part of the city on the mainland, which was called
+Palætyrus. They were lovely gardens, well watered and running down to
+the sea-edge, and in them grew beautiful palms and other trees, with
+fruitful shrubs and flowers. Here, when they had roamed a while,
+Miriam and Nehushta sat down upon the fallen column of some old temple
+and rested. Suddenly they heard a footstep, and Miriam looked up to
+see before her a Roman officer, clad in a cloak that showed signs of
+sea-travel, and, guiding him, one of Benoni's servants.
+
+The officer, a rough but kindly looking man of middle age, bowed to
+her, asking in Greek if he spoke to the lady Miriam, the granddaughter
+of Benoni the Jew, she who had been brought up among the Essenes.
+
+"Sir, I am she," answered Miriam.
+
+"Then, lady, I, who am named Gallus, have an errand to perform"; and
+drawing from his robe a letter tied with silk and sealed, and with the
+letter a package, he handed them to her.
+
+"Who sends these?" she asked, hope shining in her eyes, "and whence
+come they?"
+
+"From Rome, lady, as fast as sails could waft them and me. And the
+sender is the noble Marcus, called the Fortunate."
+
+"Oh!" said Miriam, blushing to her eyes, "tell me, sir, is he well?"
+
+"Not so well but that such a look as that, lady, would better him, or
+any other man, could he be here to see it," answered the Roman, gazing
+at her with admiration.
+
+"Did you then leave him ill? I do not understand."
+
+"Nay, his health seemed sound, and his uncle Caius being dead his
+wealth can scarce be counted, or so they say, since the old man made
+him his heir. Perhaps that is why the divine Nero has taken such a
+fancy to him that he can scarce leave the palace. Therefore I cannot
+say that Marcus is well to-day, since sometimes Nero's friends are
+short-lived. Nay, be not frightened, I did but jest; your Marcus is
+safe enough. Read the letter, lady, and waste no time. As for me, my
+mission is fulfilled. Thank me not; it is reward enough to have seen
+that sweet face of yours. Fortunate indeed is the star of Marcus, and,
+though I am jealous of the man, for your sake I pray that it may lead
+him back to you. Lady, farewell."
+
+"Cut the silk, Nou," said Miriam when the Captain Gallus had gone.
+"Quick. I have no knife."
+
+Nehushta obeyed smiling and the letter was unrolled. It, or those
+parts of it which concern us, ran thus:
+
+ "To the lady Miriam, from Marcus the Roman, her friend, by the hand
+  of the Captain Gallus.
+
+ "Dear friend and lady, greeting. Already since I came here I have
+  written you one letter, but this day news has reached me that the
+  ship which bore it foundered off the coast of Sicily. So, as
+  Neptune has that letter, and with it many good men, although I
+  write more ill than I do most things, I send you another by this
+  occasion, hoping, I who am vain, that you have not forgotten me,
+  and that the reading of it may even give you pleasure. Most dear
+  Miriam, know that I accomplished my voyage to Rome in safety,
+  visiting your grandsire on the way to pay him a debt I owed. But
+  that story you will perhaps have heard.
+
+ "From Tyre I sailed for Italy, but was cast away upon the coasts of
+  Melita, where many of us were drowned. By the favour of some god,
+  however--ah! what god I wonder--I escaped, and taking another ship
+  came safely to Brundisium, whence I travelled as fast as horses
+  would carry me to Rome. Here I arrived but just in time, for I
+  found my uncle Caius very will. Believing, moreover, that I had
+  been drowned in the shipwreck at Melita, he was about to make a
+  will bequeathing his property to the Emperor Nero, but by good
+  fortune of this he had said nothing. Had he done so I should, I
+  think, be as poor to-day as when I left you, dear, and perhaps
+  poorer still, for I might have lost my head with my inheritance.
+
+ "As it was I found favour in the sight of my uncle Caius, who a
+  week after my arrival executed a formal testament leaving to me
+  all his land, goods, and moneys, which on his death three months
+  later I inherited. Thus I have become rich--so rich that now,
+  having much money to spend, by some perversity which I cannot
+  explain, I have grown careful and spend as little as possible.
+  After I had entered into my inheritance I made a plan to return to
+  Judæa, for one reason and one alone--to be near to you, most sweet
+  Miriam. At the last moment I was stayed by a very evil chance.
+  That bust which you made of me I had managed to save from the
+  shipwreck and bring safe to Rome--now I wish it was at the bottom
+  of the sea, and you shall learn why.
+
+ "When I came into possession of this house in the Via Agrippa,
+  which is large and beautiful, I set it in a place of honour in the
+  antechamber and summoned that sculptor, Glaucus, of whom I have
+  spoken to you, and others who follow the art, to come and pass
+  judgment upon the work. They came, they wondered and they were
+  silent, for each of them feared lest in praising it he should
+  exalt some rival. When, however, I told them that it was the work
+  of a lady in Judæa, although they did not believe me, since all of
+  them declared that no woman had shaped that marble, knowing that
+  they had nothing to fear from so distant an artist whoever he
+  might be, they began to praise the work with one voice, and all
+  that evening until the wine overcame them, talked of nothing else.
+  Also they continued talking on the morrow, until at length the
+  fame of the thing came to the ears of Nero, who also is an artist
+  of music and other things. The end of it was that one day, without
+  warning, the Emperor visited my house and demanded to see the
+  bust, which I showed to him. For many minutes he examined it
+  through the emerald with which he aids his sight, then asked:
+
+ "'What land had the honour to bear the genius who wrought this
+  work?'
+
+ "I answered, 'Judæa,' a country, by the way, of which he seemed to
+  know little, except that some fanatics dwelt there, who refused to
+  worship him. He said that he would make that artist ruler of
+  Judæa. I replied that the artist was a woman, whereon he answered
+  that he cared nothing--she should still rule Judæa, or if this
+  could not be managed he would send and bring her to Rome to make a
+  statue of him to be set up in the Temple at Jerusalem for the Jews
+  to worship.
+
+ "Now I saw that I had been foolish, and knowing well what would
+  have been your fate, my Miriam, had he once set eyes on you, I
+  sighed and answered, that alas! it was impossible, since you were
+  dead, as I proved to him by a long story with which I will not
+  trouble you. Moreover, now that he was sure that you were dead, I
+  showed him the little statuette of yourself looking into water,
+  which you gave me. Whereon he burst into tears, at the thought
+  that such an one had departed from the earth, while it was still
+  cursed with so many who are wicked, old and ugly.
+
+ "Still he did not go, but remained admiring the bust, till at
+  length one of his favourites who accompanied him, whispered in my
+  ear that I must present it to the Emperor. I refused, whereon he
+  whispered back that if I did not, assuredly before long it would
+  be taken, and with it all my other goods, and, perhaps, my life.
+  So, since I must, I changed my mind and prayed him to accept it;
+  whereon he embraced, first the marble and then me, and caused it
+  to be borne away then and there, leaving me mad with rage.
+
+ "Now I tell you all this silly story for a reason, since it has
+  hindered and still hinders me from leaving Rome. Thus: two days
+  later I received an Imperial decree, in which it was stated that
+  the incomparable work of art brought from Judæa by Marcus, the son
+  of Emilius, had been set up in a certain temple, where those who
+  would please their Emperor were desired to present themselves and
+  worship it and the soul of her by whom it was fashioned. Moreover,
+  it was commanded that I, Marcus, whose features had served as a
+  model for the work, should be its guardian and attend twice weekly
+  in the temple, that all might see how the genius of a great artist
+  is able to make a thing of immortal beauty from a coarse original
+  of flesh and blood. Oh, Miriam, I have no patience to write of
+  this folly, yet the end of it is, that except at the cost of my
+  fortune and the risk of my life, it is impossible for me to leave
+  Rome. Twice every week, or by special favour, once only, must I
+  attend in that accursed temple where my own likeness stands upon
+  a pedestal of marble, and before it a marble altar, on which are
+  cut the words: 'Sacrifice, O passer-by, to the spirit of the
+  departed genius who wrought this divine work.'
+
+ "Yes, there I sit, I who am a soldier, while fools come in and gaze
+  first at the marble and then at me, saying things for which often
+  I long to kill them, and casting grains of incense into the little
+  fire on the altar in sacrifice to your spirit, whereby I trust it
+  may be benefited. Thus, Miriam, are we ruled in Rome to-day.
+
+ "Meanwhile, I am in great favour with Nero, so that men call me
+  'the Fortunate,' and my house the 'Fortunate House,' a title of
+  ill-omen.
+
+ "Yet out of this evil comes some good, since because of his present
+  affection for me, or my bust, I have now and again for your sake,
+  Miriam, been able to do service, even to the saving of their
+  lives, to those of your faith. Here there are many Christians whom
+  it is an amusement to Nero to persecute, torture, and slay,
+  sometimes by soaking them in tar and making of them living torches
+  to illuminate his gardens, and sometimes in other fashions. The
+  lives of sundry of these poor people he has given to me, when I
+  begged them of him. Indeed, he has done more. Yesterday Nero came
+  himself to the temple and suggested that certain of the Christians
+  should be sacrificed in a very cruel fashion here as an offering
+  to your spirit. I answered that this could give it little
+  pleasure, seeing that in your lifetime you also were a Christian.
+  Thereon he wrung his hands, crying out, 'Oh! what a crime have I
+  committed,' and instantly gave orders that no more Christians
+  should be killed. So for a little while, thanks to your handiwork,
+  and to me who am called 'the Model,' they are safe--those who are
+  left of them.
+
+ "I hear that there are wars and tumults in Judæa, and that
+  Vespasian, a great general, is to be sent to quell them. If I can
+  I will come with him, but at present--such is the madness of my
+  master--this is too much to hope, unless, indeed, he wearies
+  suddenly of the 'Divine Work' and its attendant 'Model.'
+
+ "Meanwhile I also cast incense upon your altar, and pray that in
+  these troubles you may come to no harm.
+
+ "Miriam, I am most unhappy. I think of you always and yet I cannot
+  come to you. I picture you in many dangers, and I am not there to
+  save you. I even dare to hope that you would wish to see me again;
+  but it is the Jew Caleb, and other men, who see you and make
+  offerings to your sweet beauty as I make them to your spirit. I
+  beseech you, Miriam, do not accept the offerings, lest in some day
+  to come, when I am once more a soldier, and have ceased to be a
+  custodian of busts, it should be the worse for those worshippers,
+  and especially for Caleb.
+
+ "What else have I to tell you? I have sought out some of the great
+  preachers of your faith, hoping that by the magic whereof they are
+  said to be masters, they would be able to assure me of your
+  welfare. But to my sorrow they gave me no magic--in which it seems
+  they do not deal--only maxims. Also, from these I bought for a
+  great sum certain manuscripts written by themselves containing the
+  doctrines of your law, which I intend to study so soon as I have
+  time. Indeed, this is a task which I wish to postpone, since did I
+  read I might believe and turn Christian, to serve in due course as
+  a night-light in Nero's gardens.
+
+ "I send you a present, praying that you will accept it. The emerald
+  in the ring is cut by my friend, the sculptor Glaucus. The pearls
+  are fine and have a history which I hope to tell you some day.
+  Wear them always, beloved Miriam, for my sake. I do not forget
+  your words; nay, I ponder them day and night. But at least you
+  said you loved me, and in wearing these trinkets you break no duty
+  to the dead. Write to me, I pray you, if you can find a messenger.
+  Or, if you cannot write, think of me always as I do of you. Oh,
+  that we were back together in that happy village of the Essenes,
+  to whom, as to yourself, be all good fortune! Farewell.
+
+                       "Your ever faithful friend and lover,
+                                                           "Marcus."
+
+Miriam finished her letter, kissed it, and hid it in her bosom. Then
+she opened the packet and unlocked the ivory box within by a key that
+hung to it. Out of the casket she took a roll of soft leather. This
+she undid and uttered a little cry of joy, for there lay a necklace of
+the most lovely pearls that she had ever seen. Nor was this all, for
+threaded on the pearls was a ring, and cut upon its emerald bezel the
+head of Marcus, and her own head taken from the likeness she had given
+him.
+
+"Look! Nou, look!" said Miriam, showing her the beauteous trinkets.
+
+"A sight to make old eyes glisten," answered Nehushta handling them.
+"I know something of pearls, and these are worth a fortune. Happy
+maid, to whom is given such a lover."
+
+"Unhappy maid who can never be a happy wife," sighed Miriam, her blue
+eyes filling with tears.
+
+"Grieve not; that still may chance," answered Nehushta, as she
+fastened the pearls about Miriam's neck. "At least you have heard from
+him and he still loves you, which is much. Now for the ring--the
+marriage finger--see, how it fits."
+
+"Nay, I have no right," murmured Miriam; still she did not draw it off
+again.
+
+"Come, let us be going," said Nehushta, hiding the casket in her amble
+robe, "for the sun sinks, and to-night there are guests to supper."
+
+"What guests?" asked Miriam absently.
+
+"Plotters, every one," said Nehushta, shrugging her shoulders. "The
+great scheme to drive the Romans from the Holy City ripens fast, and
+your grandsire waters its root. I pray that we may not all of us
+gather bitter grapes from that vine. Have you heard that Caleb is back
+in Tyre?"
+
+"Caleb!" faltered Miriam, "No."
+
+"Well, he is. He arrived yesterday and will be among the guests
+to-night. He has been fighting up in the desert there, and bravely,
+for I am told that he was one of those who seized the fortress of
+Masada and put its Roman garrison to the sword."
+
+"Then he is against the Romans?"
+
+"Yes, because he hopes to rule the Jews, and risks much to gain more."
+
+"I do not wish to meet him," said Miriam.
+
+"Nay, but you must, and the sooner the better. Why do you fear the
+man?"
+
+"I know not, but fear him I do, now and always."
+
+
+
+When Miriam entered the supper chamber that night, the guests to the
+number of twelve were already seated on their couches, waiting for the
+feast to begin. By her grandfather's command she was arrayed in her
+richest robes fashioned and broidered after the Grecian fashion,
+having her hair gathered into coils upon her head and held with a
+golden net. Round her waist was a girdle of gold set with gems, about
+her throat the necklace of pearls which Marcus had sent her, and on
+her hand a single ring--that with his likeness and her own. As she
+entered the great chamber, looking most lovely, notwithstanding her
+lack of height, her grandfather came forward to meet her and present
+her to the guests, who rose in greeting. One by one they bowed to her
+and one by one she searched their faces with her eyes--faces for the
+most part stern and fierce. Now all had passed and she sighed with
+relief, for among them there was no Caleb. Even as she did so a
+curtain swung aside and Caleb entered.
+
+It was he, of that there could be no doubt; but oh! how changed since
+last she had seen him two years before. Then he had been but a raw,
+passionate youth; now he was a tall and splendid young man, very
+handsome in his dark fashion, very powerful of frame also and quick of
+limb. His person was matched by his attire, which was that of an
+Eastern warrior noble, and his mien was proud and conquering. As he
+advanced the guests bowed to him in respect, as to a man of great and
+assured position who may become greater still. Yes, even Benoni showed
+him this respect, stepping forward to greet him. All these greetings
+Caleb acknowledged lightly, even haughtily, till of a sudden he saw
+Miriam standing somewhat in the shadow, and heedless of the other
+guests pushed his way towards her.
+
+"Thus we meet again, Miriam," he said, his proud face softening as he
+spoke and his eyes gazing on her with a sort of rapture. "Are you
+pleased to see me?"
+
+"Surely, Caleb," she answered. "Who would not be well pleased to meet
+the playfellow of her childhood?"
+
+He frowned, for childhood and its play were not in his thoughts.
+Before he could speak again Benoni commanded the company to be seated,
+whereon Miriam took her accustomed place as mistress of the house.
+
+To her surprise Caleb seated himself beside her on the couch that
+should have been reserved for the oldest guest, who for some moments
+was left a wanderer and wrathful, till Benoni, seeing what had passed,
+called him to his side. Then, golden vessels of scented water having
+been handed by slaves to each guest in turn, the feast began. As
+Miriam was about to dip her fingers in the water she remembered the
+ring upon her left hand and turned the bezel inwards. Caleb noted the
+action, but said nothing.
+
+"Whence come you, Caleb?" she asked.
+
+"From the wars, Miriam. We have thrown down the gate to Rome, and she
+has picked it up."
+
+She looked at him inquiringly and asked, "Was it wise?"
+
+"Who can tell?" he answered. "At least it is done. For my part I
+hesitated long, but your grandfather won me over, so now I must follow
+my fate."
+
+Then he began to tell her of the taking of Masada and of the bloody
+struggles of the factions in Jerusalem.
+
+After this he spoke of the Essenes, who still occupied their village,
+though in fear, for all about them was much fighting; and of their
+childish days together--talk which pleased her greatly. Whilst they
+spoke thus, a messenger entered the room and whispered something into
+the ear of Benoni, who raised his hands to Heaven as though in
+gratitude.
+
+"What tidings?" asked one.
+
+"This, my friends. Cestius Gallus the Roman has been hunted from the
+walls of Jerusalem and his army is destroyed in the pass of Beth-
+horon."
+
+"God be praised!" said the company as though with one voice.
+
+"God be praised," repeated Caleb, "for so great and glorious a
+victory! The accursed Romans are fallen indeed."
+
+Only Miriam said nothing.
+
+"What is in your mind?" he asked looking at her.
+
+"That they will spring up again stronger than before," she replied,
+then at a signal from Benoni, rose and left the feast.
+
+From the supper chamber Miriam passed down a passage to the portico
+and there seated herself, resting her arms upon the marble balustrade
+and listening to the waves as they lapped against the walls below.
+
+That day had been disturbed, different, indeed, from all the peaceful
+days which she was wont to spend. First had come the messenger bearing
+her lover's gifts and letter which already she longed to read again;
+then hard upon his heels, like storm upon the sunshine, he who, unless
+she was mistaken, still wished to be her lover--Caleb. How curious was
+the lot of all three of them! How strangely had they been exalted!
+She, the orphan ward of the Essenes, was now a great and wealthy lady
+with everything her heart could desire--except one thing, indeed,
+which it desired most of all. And Marcus, the debt-saddled Roman
+soldier of fortune, he also, it seemed, had suddenly become great and
+wealthy, pomps that he held at the price of playing some fool's part
+in a temple to satisfy the whimsy of an Imperial madman.
+
+Caleb, too, had found fortune, and in these tumultuous times risen
+suddenly to place and power. All three of them were seated upon
+pinnacles, but as Miriam felt, they were pinnacles of snow, which for
+aught she knew, might be melted by the very sun of their prosperity.
+She was young, she had little experience, yet as Miriam sat there
+watching the changeful sea, there came upon her a great sense of the
+instability of things, and an instinctive knowledge of their vanity.
+The men who were great one day, whose names sounded in the mouths of
+all, the next had vanished, disgraced or dead. Parties rose and
+parties fell, high priest succeeded high priest, general supplanted
+general, yet upon each and all of them, like the following waves that
+rolled beneath her, came dark night and oblivion. A little dancing in
+the sunshine, a little moaning in the shade, then death, and after
+death----
+
+"What are you thinking of, Miriam?" said a rich voice at her elbow,
+the voice of Caleb.
+
+She started, for here she believed herself alone, then answered:
+
+"My thoughts matter nothing. Why are you here? You should be with your
+fellow----"
+
+"Conspirators. Why do you not say the word? Well, because sometimes
+one wearies even of conspiracy. Just now we triumph and can take our
+ease. I wish to make the most of it. What ring is that you wear upon
+your finger?"
+
+Miriam straightened herself and grew bold.
+
+"One which Marcus sent me," she answered.
+
+"I guessed as much. I have heard of him; he has become a creature of
+the mad Nero, the laughing-stock of Rome."
+
+"I do not laugh at him, Caleb."
+
+"No, you were ever faithful. But, say, do you laugh at me?"
+
+"Indeed not; why should I, since you seem to fill a great and
+dangerous part with dignity?"
+
+"Yes, Miriam, my part is both great and dangerous. I have risen high
+and I mean to rise higher."
+
+"How high?"
+
+"To the throne of Judæa."
+
+"I think a cottage stool would be more safe, Caleb."
+
+"Mayhap, but I do not like such seats. Listen, Miriam, I will be great
+or die. I have thrown in my lot with the Jews, and when we have cast
+out the Romans I shall rule."
+
+"/If/ you cast out the Romans, and /if/ you live. Caleb, I have no
+faith in the venture. We are old friends, and I pray of you to escape
+from it while there is yet time."
+
+"Why, Miriam?"
+
+"Because He Whom your people crucified and Whom I serve prophesied its
+end. The Romans will crush you, Caleb. His blood lies heavy upon the
+head of the Jews, and the hour of payment is at hand."
+
+Caleb thought a while, and when he spoke again the note of confidence
+had left his voice.
+
+"It may be so, Miriam," he said, "though I put no faith in the sayings
+of your prophet; but at least I have taken my part and will see the
+play through. Now for the second time I ask you to share its fortunes.
+I have not changed my mind. As I loved you in childhood and as a
+youth, so I love you as a man. I offer to you a great career. In the
+end I may fall, or I may triumph, still either the fall or the triumph
+will be worth your sharing. A throne, or a glorious grave--both are
+good; who can say which is the better? Seek them with me, Miriam."
+
+"Caleb, I cannot."
+
+"Why?"
+
+"Because it is laid upon me as a birthright, or a birth-duty, that I
+should wed no man who is not a Christian. You know the story."
+
+"Then if there were no such duty would you wed me, Miriam?"
+
+"No," she answered faintly.
+
+"Why not?"
+
+"Because I love another man whom also I am forbid to wed, and until
+death I am pledged to him."
+
+"The Roman, Marcus?"
+
+"Aye, the Roman Marcus. See, I wear his ring," and she lifted her
+hand, "and his gift is about my throat," and she touched the necklet
+of pearls. "Till death I am his and his alone. This I say, because it
+is best for all of us that you should know the truth."
+
+Caleb ground his teeth in bitter jealousy.
+
+"Then may death soon find him!" he said.
+
+"It would not help you, Caleb. Oh! why cannot we be friends as we were
+in the old times!"
+
+"Because I seek more than friendship, and soon or late, in this way or
+in that, I swear that I will have it."
+
+As the words left his lips footsteps were heard, and Benoni appeared.
+
+"Friend Caleb," he said, "we await you. Why, Miriam, what do you here?
+To your chamber, girl. Affairs are afoot in which women should have no
+part."
+
+"Yet as I fear, grandfather, women will have to bear the burden,"
+answered Miriam. Then, bowing to Caleb, she turned and left them.
+
+
+
+                             CHAPTER XIII
+
+                        WOE, WOE TO JERUSALEM
+
+Two more years went by, two dreadful, bloody years. In Jerusalem the
+factions tore each other. In Galilee let the Jewish leader Josephus,
+under whom Caleb was fighting, do what he would, Vespasian and his
+generals stormed city after city, massacring their inhabitants by
+thousands and tens of thousands. In the coast towns and elsewhere
+Syrians and Jews made war. The Jews assaulted Gadara and Gaulonitis,
+Sebaste and Ascalon, Anthedon and Gaza, putting many to the sword.
+Then came their own turn, for the Syrians and Greeks rose upon them
+and slaughtered them without mercy. As yet, however, there had been no
+blood shed in Tyre, though all knew that it must come. The Essenes,
+who had been driven from their home by the Dead Sea and taken refuge
+in Jerusalem, sent messengers to Miriam warning her to flee from Tyre,
+where a massacre was being planned; warning her also not to come to
+Jerusalem, which city they believed to be doomed, but to escape, if
+possible over sea. Nor was this all, for her own people, the
+Christians, besought her to fly for her life's sake with them to the
+city of Pella, where they were gathering from Jerusalem and all Judæa.
+To both Miriam answered that what her grandsire did, that she must do.
+If he fled, she would fly; if he stayed at Tyre, she would stay; if he
+went to Jerusalem, she would go; for he had been good to her and she
+had sworn that while he lived she would not desert him. So the Essene
+messengers went back to Jerusalem, and the Christian elders prayed
+with her, and having blessed her and consigned her to the care of the
+Most High and His Son, their Lord, departed to Pella, where, as it was
+fated, through all those dreadful times not a hair of their heads was
+touched.
+
+When she had parted from them, Miriam sought out her grandfather, whom
+she found pacing his chamber with a troubled air.
+
+"Why do you look so sad, Miriam?" he asked. "Have some of your friends
+warned you that new sorrows are afoot?"
+
+"Yes, grandfather," and she told him all.
+
+"I do not believe them," he said passionately. "Say, do you? Where is
+their authority? I tell you that we shall triumph. Vespasian is now
+Emperor in Rome, and there will forget this little land; and the rest,
+those enemies who are of our own house and those without it, we will
+conquer and kill. The Messiah will come, the true Messiah. Many signs
+and wonders declare that he is at hand. Ay! I myself have had a vision
+concerning him. He will come, and he will conquer, and Jerusalem shall
+be great and free and see her desire upon her enemies. I ask--where is
+your authority for these croakings?"
+
+Miriam drew a roll from her robe and read: "But when ye see Jerusalem
+compassed with armies, then know that her desolation is at hand. Then
+let them which are in Judæa flee unto the mountains; and let them
+which are in the midst of her depart out; and let not them that are in
+the country enter therein. For these are days of vengeance, that all
+things that are written may be fulfilled. Woe to them that are with
+child and to them that give suck in those days! for there shall be
+great distress upon the land and wrath unto this people. And they
+shall fall by the edge of the sword, and shall be led captive into all
+the nations; and Jerusalem shall be trodden down of the Gentiles until
+the times of the Gentiles be fulfilled."
+
+Benoni listened patiently until she had done. Then he answered with
+contempt:
+
+"So says the book of your Law, but mine tells me otherwise. Well,
+child, if you believe it and are afraid, begone with your friends, the
+Christians, and leave me to meet this storm alone."
+
+"I do believe it," she answered quietly, "but I am not afraid."
+
+"That is strange," he said, "since you must then believe also that you
+will come to a cruel death, which has terrors for the young and fair."
+
+"Not so, grandfather, for this same writing promises that in these
+troubles not one of us Christians shall perish. It is for you that I
+fear, not for myself, who will go where you go, and bide where you
+bide. Therefore, once more, and for the last time, I pray you to be
+wise and fly--who otherwise must be slain"; and as Miriam said the
+words her blue eyes filled with tears.
+
+Benoni looked at her and for a moment his courage was shaken.
+
+"Of your book I take no account," he said, "but in the vision of your
+pure spirit I am tempted to believe. Perhaps the things that you
+foresee will happen, so, child, fly. You will not lack an escort and I
+can give you treasure."
+
+She shook her head. "I have said that I will not go without you."
+
+"Then I fear that you here must bide, for I will not leave my wealth
+and home, even to save my life, and still less will I desert my people
+in their holy war. Only, Miriam, if things fall out ill for us,
+remember that I entreated you to depart, and do not reproach me."
+
+"That I shall never do," she answered, smiling, and coming to the old
+man kissed him tenderly.
+
+So they abode on in Tyre, and a week later the storm burst.
+
+For many days it had not been safe for Jews to show themselves in the
+streets of the city, since several who crept out about their business,
+or to fetch water or provisions, had been set upon and beaten to death
+by the mob, stirred up to the work by Roman emissaries. This time
+Benoni had employed in putting his house, which was part of an ancient
+fortress that had stood many a siege, into a state of defence, and in
+supplying it with an ample store of victuals. Also he sent messengers
+to Caleb, who was said to be in command of the Jewish force at Joppa,
+telling him of their peril. Because it was so strong many of the
+principal Jews in Tyre, to the number of over a hundred indeed, had
+flocked into Benoni's palace-fortress, together with their wives and
+children, since there was no other place in their power in the town
+which could be so easily defended. Lastly, in the outer courts and
+galleries were stationed fifty or more faithful servants and slaves
+who understood the use of arms.
+
+Thus things remained, the Syrians threatening them through the gates
+or from the windows of high houses, and no more, till one night Miriam
+was awakened by a dreadful sound of screaming. She sprang from her bed
+and instantly Nehushta was at her side.
+
+"What happens?" she gasped as she dressed herself hastily.
+
+"Those Syrian dogs attack the Jews," answered Nehushta, "on the
+mainland and in the lower city. Come to the roof, whence we can see
+what passes," and hand in hand they ran to the sea-portico and up its
+steep steps.
+
+The dawn was just breaking, but looking from the walled roof they had
+no need of its light, since everywhere in the dim city below and in
+Palætyrus on the mainland, houses flared like gigantic torches. In
+their red glare they could see the thousands of the attackers dragging
+out their inmates to death, or thrusting them back into the flames,
+while the night was made horrible with the shouts of the maddened mob,
+the cries of the victims and the crackling roar of burning houses.
+
+"Oh! Christ have mercy on them," sobbed Miriam.
+
+"Why should He?" asked Nehushta. "They slew Him and rejected Him; now
+they pay the price He prophesied. May He have mercy on us, His
+servants."
+
+"He would not have spoken thus," said Miriam indignantly.
+
+"Nay, but justice speaks. Those who take the sword shall perish by the
+sword. Even so have these Jews done to the Greeks and Syrians in many
+of the cities--they who are blind and mad. Now it is their hour, and
+mayhap ours. Come, lady, these are no sights for you, though you might
+do well to learn to bear them, since if you escape you may see many
+such. Come, and if you wish we will pray for these Jews, especially
+for their children, who are innocent, and for ourselves."
+
+That day at noon, most of the poorer and least protected Jews of the
+city having been killed, the Syrians began their attack upon the
+fortified palace of Benoni. Now it was that the defenders learned that
+they had to deal with no mere rabble, but with savage hordes, many
+thousands strong, directed by officers skilled in war. Indeed these
+men might be seen moving among them, and from their armour and
+appearance it was easy to guess that they were Romans. This, in fact,
+was the case, since Gessius Florus, the wicked, and after him other
+officers, made it part of their policy to send Romans to stir up the
+Syrians against the Jews and to assist them in their slaughter.
+
+First an attack was made upon the main gates, but when it was found
+that these were too strong to be taken easily, the assailants
+retreated with a loss of a score of men shot by the defenders from the
+wall. Then other tactics were adopted, for the Syrians, possessing
+themselves of the neighbouring houses, began to gall the garrison with
+arrows from the windows. Thus they drove them under cover, but did
+little more, since the palace was all of marble with cemented roofs,
+and could not be fired with the burning shafts they sent down upon it.
+
+So the first day passed, and during the night no attack was made upon
+them. When dawn came they learned the reason, for there opposite to
+the gates was reared a great battering-ram; moreover, out at sea a
+huge galley was being rowed in as close to their walls as the depth of
+water would allow, that from her decks the sailors might hurl stones
+and siege arrows by means of catapults and thus break down their
+defences and destroy them.
+
+Then it was that the real fight began. The Jews posted on the roof of
+the house poured arrows on the men who strove to work the ram, and
+killed many of them, till they were able to push the instrument so
+close that it could no longer be commanded. Now it got to work and
+with three blows of the great baulk of timber, of which the ram was
+fashioned, burst in the gates. Thereon the defenders, headed by old
+Benoni himself, rushed out and put those who served it to the sword;
+then before they could be overcome, retreated across the ditch to the
+inner wall, breaking down the wooden bridge behind them. Now, since
+the ram was of no further use, as it could not be dragged through the
+ditch, the galley, that was anchored within a hundred paces, began to
+hurl huge stones and arrows at them, knocking down the walls and
+killing several, including two women and three children.
+
+Thus matters went on till noon, the besiegers galling them with their
+arrows from the land side and the galley battering them from the sea,
+while they could do little or nothing in return, having no engines.
+Benoni called a council and set out the case, which was desperate
+enough. It was evident, he said, that they could not hold out another
+day, since at nightfall the Syrians would cross the narrow protecting
+ditch and set up a battering-ram against the inner wall. Therefore,
+they must do one of two things--sally out and attempt to cut their way
+through and gain open country, or fight on and at the last kill the
+women and children and rush out, those that were left of them, to be
+hacked down by the besieging thousands. As the first plan gave no
+hope, since, cumbered as they were with helpless people, they could
+not expect to escape the city, in their despair they decided on the
+second. All must die, therefore they would perish by each other's
+hands. When this decision was known, a wail went up from the women and
+the children began to scream with fright, those of them who were old
+enough to understand their doom.
+
+Nehushta caught Miriam by the arm.
+
+"Come to the highest roof," she said; "it is safe from the stones and
+arrows, and thence, if need be, we can hurl ourselves into the water
+and die an easy death."
+
+So they went and crouched there, praying, for their case was
+desperate. Suddenly Nehushta touched Miriam and pointed to the sea.
+She looked and saw another galley approaching fast as oars and sails
+could bring her.
+
+"What of it?" she asked heavily. "It will but hasten the end."
+
+"Nay," replied Nehushta, "this ship is Jewish; she does not fly the
+Eagles, or a Phœnician banner. Behold! the Syrian vessel is getting up
+her anchors and preparing for fight."
+
+It was true enough, for now the oars of the Syrian shot out and she
+forged ahead towards the newcomer. But just then the current caught
+her, laying her broadside on, whereon the Jewish ship, driven by the
+following wind, shifted her helm and, amidst a mighty shouting from
+sea and shore, drove down upon her, striking her amidships with its
+beak so that she heeled over. Then there was more tumult, and Miriam
+closed her eyes to shut out the horrid sight.
+
+When she opened them again the Syrian galley had vanished, only the
+water was spotted with black dots which were the heads of men.
+
+"Gallantly done!" screamed Nehushta. "See, she anchors and puts out
+her boats; they will save us yet. Down to the water-gate!"
+
+On their way they met Benoni coming to seek them, and with him won the
+steps which were already crowded with fugitives. The two boats of the
+galley drew near and in the bow of the first of them stood a tall and
+noble-looking figure.
+
+"It is Caleb," said Miriam, "Caleb who has come to save us."
+
+Caleb it was indeed. At a distance of ten paces from the steps he
+halted his boat and called aloud:
+
+"Benoni, Lady Miriam and Nehushta, if you still live, stand forward."
+
+They stood forward.
+
+"Now wade into the sea," he cried again, and they waded out until the
+water reached their armpits, when they were seized one by one and
+dragged into the boat. Many followed them and were also dragged in,
+until that boat and the other were quite full, whereon they turned and
+were rowed to the galley. Having embarked them, the two boats went
+back and again were filled with fugitives, for the most part women and
+children.
+
+Again they went, but as they laded for the third time, the ends of
+ladders appeared above the encircling walls of the steps, and Syrians
+could be seen rushing out upon the portico, whence they began to lower
+themselves with ropes. The end of that scene was dreadful. The boats
+were full, till the water indeed began to overflow their gunwales, but
+many still remained upon the steps or rushed into the water, women
+screaming and holding their children above their heads, and men
+thrusting them aside in the mad rush for life. The boats rowed off,
+some who could swim following them. For the rest, their end was the
+sword. In all, seventy souls were rescued.
+
+Miriam flung herself downwards upon the deck of the galley and burst
+into tears, crying out:
+
+"Oh! save them! Can no one save them?" while Benoni seated at her
+side, the water running from his blood-stained garment, moaned:
+
+"My house sacked; my wealth taken; my people slain by the Gentiles!"
+
+"Thank God Who has saved us," broke in old Nehushta, "God and Caleb;
+and as for you, master, blame yourself. Did not we Christians warn you
+of what was to come? Well, as it has been in the beginning, so it
+shall be in the end."
+
+Just then Caleb appeared before them, proud and flushed with triumph,
+as he well might be who had done great things and saved Miriam from
+the sword. Benoni rose and, casting his arms about his neck, embraced
+him.
+
+"Behold your deliverer!" he said to Miriam, and stooping down, he drew
+her to her feet.
+
+"I thank you, Caleb. I can say no more," she murmured; but in her
+heart she knew that God had delivered her and that Caleb was but His
+instrument.
+
+"I am well repaid," answered Caleb gravely. "For me this has been a
+fortunate day, who on it have sunk the great Syrian galley and rescued
+the woman--whom I love."
+
+"Oath or no oath," broke in Benoni, bethinking him of what he had
+promised in the past, "the life you saved is yours, and if I have my
+way you shall take her and such of her heritage as remains."
+
+"Is this a time to speak of such things?" said Miriam, looking up.
+"See yonder," and she pointed to the scene in progress on the
+seashore. "They drive our friends and servants into the sea and drown
+them," and once more she began to weep.
+
+Caleb sighed. "Cease from useless tears, Miriam. We have done our best
+and it is the fortune of war. I dare not send out the boats again even
+if the mariners would listen to my command. Nehushta, lead your lady
+to the cabin and strip her of these wet garments lest she take cold in
+this bitter wind. But first, Benoni, what is your mind?"
+
+"To go to my cousin Mathias, the high priest at Jerusalem," answered
+the old man, "who has promised to give me shelter if in these days any
+can be found."
+
+"Nay," broke in Nehushta, "sail for Egypt."
+
+"Where also they massacre the Jews by thousands till the streets of
+Alexandria run with their blood," replied Caleb with sarcasm; adding,
+"Well, to Egypt I cannot take you who must bring this ship to those
+who await her on this side of Joppa, whence I am summoned to
+Jerusalem."
+
+"Whither and nowhere else I will go," said Benoni, "to share in my
+nation's death or triumph. If Miriam wills it, I have told her she can
+leave me."
+
+"What I have said before I say again," replied Miriam, "that I will
+never do."
+
+Then Nehushta took her to the cabin, and presently the oars began to
+beat and the great galley stood out of the harbour, till in the
+silence of the sea the screams of the victims and the shouts of the
+victors died away, and as night fell naught could be seen of Tyre but
+the flare from the burning houses of the slaughtered Jews.
+
+Save for the sobs and cries of the fugitives who had lost their
+friends and goods the night passed in quiet, since, although it was
+winter, the sea was calm and none pursued their ship. At daybreak she
+anchored, and coming from the cabin with Nehushta, in the light of the
+rising sun Miriam saw before her a ridge of rocks over which the water
+poured, and beyond it a little bay backed by a desolate coast.
+Nehushta also saw and sighed.
+
+"What is this place?" asked Miriam.
+
+"Lady, it is the spot where you were born. On yonder flat rock lay the
+vessel, and there I burned her many years ago. See those blackened
+timbers half buried in the sand upon the beach; doubtless they are her
+ribs."
+
+"It is strange that I should return hither, and thus, Nou," said
+Miriam sighing.
+
+"Strange, indeed, but mayhap there is a meaning in it. Before you came
+in storm to grow to womanhood in peace; now, perchance, you come on a
+peaceful sea to pass through womanhood in storm."
+
+"Both journeys began with death, Nou."
+
+"As all journeys end. Blackness behind and blackness in front, and
+between them a space of sunshine and shadow--that is the law. Yet have
+no fear, for dead Anna, who had the gift of prophecy, foretold that
+you should live out your life, though with me, whose days are almost
+done, it may be otherwise."
+
+Miriam's face grew troubled.
+
+"I fear neither life nor death, Nou, who am willing to meet either as
+may chance. But to part with you--ah! that thought makes me fear."
+
+"I think that it will not be yet awhile," said Nehushta, "for although
+I am old, I still have work to do before I lay me down and sleep.
+Come, Caleb calls us. We are to disembark while the weather holds."
+
+So Miriam entered the boat with her grandfather and others who had
+escaped, for the faces of all of them were set towards Jerusalem, and
+was rowed to the shore over that very rock where first she drew her
+breath. Here they found Jews who had been watching for the coming of
+the galley. These men gave them a kind reception, and, what they
+needed even more, food, fire and some beasts of burden for their
+journey.
+
+When all were gathered on the beach Caleb joined them, having handed
+over the galley to another Jew, who was to depart in her with those
+that waited on the shore, upon some secret mission of intercepting
+Roman corn-ships. When these men heard what he had done at Tyre, at
+first they were inclined to be angry, since they said that he had no
+authority to risk the vessel thus, but afterwards, seeing that he had
+succeeded, and with no loss of men, praised him and said that it was a
+very great deed.
+
+So the galley put about and sailed away, and they, to the number of
+some sixty souls, began their journey to Jerusalem. A little while
+later they came to a village, the same where Nehushta had found the
+peasant and his wife, whose inhabitants, at the sight of them, fled,
+thinking that they were one of the companies of robbers that hunted
+the land in packs, like wolves, plundering or murdering all they met.
+When they learnt the truth, however, these people returned and heard
+their story in silence, for in those days such tales were common
+enough. As it came to an end a withered, sunburned woman advanced to
+Nehushta, and, laying one hand upon her arm, pointed with the other at
+Miriam, saying:
+
+"Tell me, friend, is that the babe I suckled?"
+
+Then Nehushta, knowing her to be the nurse who had travelled with them
+to the village of the Essenes, greeted her, and answered "Yea,"
+whereupon the woman cast her arms about Miriam and embraced her.
+
+"Day by day," she said, "have I thought of you, little one, and now
+that my eyes have seen you grown so sweet and fair, I care not--I
+whose husband is dead and who have no children--how soon they close
+upon the world." Then she blessed her, and called upon her angel to
+protect her yonder in Jerusalem, and found her food and an ass to
+ride; and so they parted, to meet no more.
+
+As it happened, they were fortunate upon that journey, since, with the
+armed guard of twenty men who accompanied Caleb, they were too strong
+a party to be attacked by the wandering bands of thieves, and,
+although it was reported that Titus and his army had already reached
+Cæsarea from Egypt, they met no Romans. Indeed, their only enemy was
+the cold, which proved so bitter that when, on the second night, they
+camped upon the heights over against Jerusalem, having no tents and
+fearing to light fires, they were obliged to walk about till daylight
+to keep their blood astir. Then it was that they saw strange and
+terrible things.
+
+In the clear sky over Jerusalem blazed a great comet, in appearance
+like a sword of fire. It was true that they had seen it before at
+Tyre, but never before had it shown so bright. Moreover, there it had
+not the appearance of a sword. This they thought to be an ill omen,
+all of them except Benoni, who said that the point of the sword
+stretched out over Cæsarea, presaging the destruction of the Romans by
+the hand of God. Towards dawn, the pale, unnatural lustre of the comet
+faded, and the sky grew overcast and stormy. At length the sun came
+up, when, to their marvelling eyes, the fiery clouds took strange
+shapes.
+
+"Look, look!" said Miriam, grasping her grandfather by the arm, "there
+are armies in the heavens, and they fight together."
+
+They looked, and, sure enough, it seemed as though two great hosts
+were there embattled. They could discern the legions, the wind-blown
+standards, the charging chariots, and the squadrons of impetuous
+horse. The firmament had become a battle-ground, and lo! it was red as
+with the blood of the fallen, while the air was full of strange and
+dreadful sounds, bred, perhaps, of wind and distant thunder, that came
+to them like the wail of the vanquished and the dull roar of
+triumphant armies. So terrified were they at the sight, that they
+crouched upon the ground and hid their faces in their hands. Only old
+Benoni standing up, his white beard and robes stained red by the
+ominous light, cried out that this celestial scene foretold the
+destruction of the enemies of God.
+
+"Ay!" said Nehushta, "but which enemies?"
+
+The tall Caleb, marching on his round of the camp, echoed:
+
+"Yes, which enemies?"
+
+Suddenly the light grew, all these fantastic shapes melted into a red
+haze, which sank down till Jerusalem before them seemed as though she
+floated in an ocean of blood and fire. Then a dark cloud came up and
+for a while the holy Hill of Zion vanished utterly away. It passed,
+the blue sky reappeared, and lo! the clear light streamed upon her
+marble palaces and clustered houses, and was reflected from the golden
+roofs of the Temple. So calm and peaceful did the glorious city look
+that none would have deemed indeed that she was already nothing but a
+slaughter-house, where factions fought furiously, and day by day
+hundreds of Jews perished beneath the knives of their own brethren.
+
+Caleb gave the word to break their camp, and with bodies shivering in
+the cold and spirits terrified by fear, they marched across the rugged
+hills towards the Joppa gate, noting as they passed into the valley
+that the country had been desolated, for but little corn sprang in the
+fields, and that was trodden down, while of flocks and herds they saw
+none. Reaching the gate they found it shut, and there were challenged
+by soldiers, wild-looking men with ferocious faces of the army of
+Simon of Gerasa that held the Lower City.
+
+"Who are you and what is your business?" these asked.
+
+Caleb set out his rank and titles, and as these did not seem to
+satisfy them Benoni explained that the rest of them were fugitives
+from Tyre, where there had been a great slaughter of the Jews.
+
+"Fugitives always have money; best kill them," said the captain of the
+gate. "Doubtless they are traitors and deserve to die."
+
+Caleb grew angry and commanded them to open, asking by what right they
+dared to exclude him, a high officer who had done great service in the
+wars.
+
+"By the right of the strong," they answered. "Those who let in Simon
+have to deal with Simon. If you are of the party of John or of Eleazer
+go to the Temple and knock upon its doors," and they pointed mockingly
+to the gleaming gates above.
+
+"Has it come to this, then," asked Benoni, "that Jew eats Jew in
+Jerusalem, while the Roman wolves raven round the walls? Man, we are
+of no party, although, as I think, my name is known and honoured by
+all parties--the name of Benoni of Tyre. I demand to be led, not to
+Simon, or to John, or to Eleazer, but to my cousin, Mathias, the high
+priest, who bids us here."
+
+"Mathias, the high priest," said the captain; "that is another matter.
+Well, this Mathias let us into the city, where we have found good
+quarters, and good plunder; so as one turn deserves another, we may as
+well let in his friends. Pass, cousin of Mathias the high priest, with
+all your company," and he opened the gate.
+
+They entered and marched up the narrow streets towards the Temple. It
+was the hour of the day when all men should be stirring and busy with
+their work, but lo! the place was desolate--yes, although so crowded,
+it still was desolate. On the pavement lay bodies of men and women
+slain in some midnight outrage. From behind the lattices of the
+windows they caught sight of the eyes of hundreds peeping at them, but
+none gave them a good-morrow, or said one single word. The silence of
+death seemed to brood upon the empty thoroughfares. Presently it was
+broken by a single wailing voice that reached their ears from so far
+away that they could not catch its meaning. Nearer and nearer it came,
+till at length in the dark and narrow street they caught sight of a
+thin, white-bearded figure, naked to the waist as though to show the
+hideous scars and rod-weals with which its back and breast were
+scored, still festering, some of them. This was the man who uttered
+the cries, and these were the words he spoke:
+
+"A voice from the East! a voice from the West! a voice from the four
+Winds! a voice against Jerusalem and against the Temple! a voice
+against the bridegrooms and the brides! a voice against the whole
+people! Woe, woe to Jerusalem!"
+
+Now he was upon them, yes, and marching through them as though he saw
+them not, although they shrank to one side and the other of the narrow
+street to avoid the touch of this ominous, unclean creature who
+scarcely seemed to be a man.
+
+"Fellow, what do these words mean?" cried Benoni in angry fear. But,
+taking no heed, his pale eyes fixed upon the heavens, the wanderer
+answered only, "Woe, woe to Jerusalem! Woe to you who come up to
+Jerusalem!"
+
+So he passed on, still uttering those awful words, till at length they
+lost sight of his naked form and the sound of his crying grew faint
+and died away.
+
+"What a fearful greeting is this!" said Miriam, wringing her hands.
+
+"Ay!" answered Nehushta, "but the farewell will be worse. The place is
+doomed and all in it."
+
+Only Caleb said, striving to look unconcerned:
+
+"Have no fear, Miriam. I know the man. He is mad."
+
+"Where does wisdom end and madness begin?" asked Nehushta.
+
+Then they went on towards the gates of the Temple, always through the
+same blood-stained, empty streets.
+
+
+
+                             CHAPTER XIV
+
+                  THE ESSENES FIND THEIR QUEEN AGAIN
+
+They went on towards the gates of the Temple, but many a long day was
+destined to go by ere Miriam reached them. The entrance by which they
+were told they must approach if they sought speech of the high priest,
+was one of the two Huldah Gates on the south side of the Royal
+Cloister, and thither they came across the valley of Tyropæon. As they
+drew near to them of a sudden that gate which stood most to the east
+was flung wide, and out of it issued a thousand or more of armed men,
+like ants from a broken nest, who, shouting and waving swords, rushed
+towards their company. As it chanced, at the moment they were in the
+centre of an open space that once had been covered with houses but was
+now cumbered with hundreds of blackened and tottering walls, for fire
+had devoured them.
+
+"It is the men of John who attack us," cried a voice, whereon, moved
+by a common impulse, the little band turned and fled for shelter among
+the ruined houses; yes, even Caleb and Benoni fled.
+
+Before they reached them, lo! from these crumbling walls that they had
+thought untenanted save by wandering dogs, out rushed another body of
+savage warriors, the men of Simon who held the Lower City.
+
+After this, Miriam knew little of what happened. Swords and spears
+flashed round her, the factions fell upon each other, slaughtering
+each other. She saw Caleb cut down one of the soldiers of John, to be
+instantly assaulted in turn by a soldier of Simon, since all desired
+to kill, but none cared whom they slew. She saw her grandfather
+rolling over and over on the ground in the grip of a man who looked
+like a priest; she saw women and children pierced with spears. Then
+Nehushta seized her by the hand, and plunging a knife into the arm of
+a man who would have stayed them, dragged her away. They fled, an
+arrow sang past her ear; something struck her on the foot. Still they
+fled, whither she knew not, till at length the sound of the tumult
+died away. But not yet would Nehushta stop, for she feared that they
+might be followed. So on they went, and on, meeting few and heeded by
+none, till at length Miriam sank to the ground, worn out with fear and
+flight.
+
+"Up," said Nehushta.
+
+"I cannot," she answered. "Something has hurt my foot. See, it
+bleeds!"
+
+Nehushta looked about her, and saw that they were outside the second
+wall in the new city of Bezetha, not far from the old Damascus Gate,
+for there, to their right and a little behind them, rose the great
+tower of Antonia. Beneath this wall were rubbish-heaps, foul-smelling
+and covered over with rough grasses and some spring flowers, which
+grew upon the slopes of the ancient fosse. Here seemed a place where
+they might lie hid awhile, since there were no houses and it was
+unsavoury. She dragged Miriam to her feet, and, notwithstanding her
+complaints and swollen ankle, forced her on, till they came to a spot
+where, as it is to-day, the wall was built upon foundations of living
+rock, roughly shaped, and lined with crevices covered by tall weeds.
+To one of these crevices Nehushta brought Miriam, and, seating her on
+a bed of grass, examined her foot, which seemed to have been bruised
+by a stone from a sling. Having no water with which to wash the
+bleeding hurt, she made a poultice of crushed herbs and tied it about
+the ankle with a strip of linen. Even before she had finished her
+task, so exhausted was Miriam that she fell fast asleep. Nehushta
+watched her a while, wondering what they should do next, till, in that
+lonely place bathed by the warm spring sun, she also began to doze.
+
+Suddenly she awoke with a start, having dreamed that she saw a man
+with white face and beard peering at them from behind a rough angle of
+rock. She stared: there was the rock as she had dreamed of it, but no
+man. She looked upward. Above them, piled block upon gigantic block,
+rose the wall, towering and impregnable. Thither he could not have
+gone, since on it only a lizard could find foothold. Nor was he
+anywhere else, for there was no cover; so she decided that he must
+have been some searcher of the rubbish-heap, who, seeing them hidden
+in the tall grasses, had fled away. Miriam was still sound asleep, and
+in her weariness presently Nehushta again began to doze, till at
+length--it may have been one hour later, or two or three, she knew not
+--some sound disturbed her. Opening her eyes, once more behind that
+ridge of rock she saw, not one white-bearded face, but two, staring at
+her and Miriam. As she sat up they vanished. She remained still,
+pretending to sleep, and again they appeared, scanning her closely and
+whispering to each other in eager tones. Suddenly one of the faces
+turned a little so that the light fell on it. Now Nehushta knew why in
+her dream it had seemed familiar, and in her heart thanked God.
+
+"Brother Ithiel," she said in a quiet voice, "why do you hide like a
+coney in these rocks?"
+
+Both heads disappeared, but the sound of whispering continued. Then
+one of them rose again among the green grasses as a man might rise out
+of water. It was Ithiel's.
+
+"It is indeed you, Nehushta?" said his well-remembered voice.
+
+"Who else?" she asked.
+
+"And that lady who sleeps at your side?"
+
+"Once they called her Queen of the Essenes; now she is a hunted
+fugitive, waiting to be massacred by Simon, or John, or Eleazer, or
+Zealots, or Sicarii, or any other of the holy cut-throats who inhabit
+this Holy City," answered Nehushta bitterly.
+
+Ithiel raised his hands as though in thankfulness, then said:
+
+"Hush! hush! Here the very birds are spies. Brother, creep to that
+rock and look if any men are moving."
+
+The Essene obeyed, and answered, "None; and they cannot see us from
+the wall."
+
+Ithiel motioned to him to return.
+
+"Does she sleep sound?" he asked of Nehushta, pointing to Miriam.
+
+"Like the dead."
+
+Then, after another whispered conference, the pair of them crept round
+the angle of the rock. Bidding Nehushta follow them, they lifted the
+sleeping Miriam, and carried her between them through a dense growth
+of shrubs to another rock. Here they moved some grass and pushed aside
+a stone, revealing a hole not much larger than a jackal would make.
+Into this the brother entered, heels first. Then Nehushta, by his
+directions, taking the feet of the senseless Miriam, with her help he
+bore her into the hole, that opened presently into a wide passage.
+Last of all Ithiel, having lifted the grasses which their feet had
+trodden, followed them, pulling the stone back to its place, and
+cutting off the light. Once more they were in darkness, but this did
+not seem to trouble the brethren, for again lifting Miriam, they went
+forward a distance of thirty or forty paces, Nehushta holding on to
+Ithiel's robe. Now, at length, the cold air of this cave, or perhaps
+its deep gloom and the motion, awoke Miriam from her swoon-like sleep.
+She struggled in their hands, and would have cried out, had not
+Nehushta bade her to be silent.
+
+"Where am I?" she said. "Is this the hall of death?"
+
+"Nay, lady. Wait a while, all shall be explained."
+
+While she spoke and Miriam clung to her affrighted, Ithiel struck iron
+and flint together. Catching the spark upon tinder he blew it to a
+flame and lighted a taper which burnt up slowly, causing his white
+beard and face to appear by degrees out of the darkness, like that of
+a ghost rising from the tomb.
+
+"Oh! surely I am dead," said Miriam, "for before me stands the spirit
+of my uncle Ithiel."
+
+"Not the spirit, Miriam, but the flesh," answered the old man in a
+voice that trembled with joy. Then, since he could restrain himself no
+longer, he gave the taper to the brother, and, taking her in his arms,
+kissed her again and again.
+
+"Welcome, most dear child," he said; "yes, even to this darksome den,
+welcome, thrice welcome, and blessed be the eternal God Who led our
+feet forth to find you. Nay, do not stop to talk, we are still too
+near the wall. Give me your hand and come."
+
+Miriam glanced up as she obeyed, and by the feeble light of the taper
+saw a vast rocky roof arching above them. On either side of her also
+were walls of rough-hewn rock down which dripped water, and piled upon
+the floor or still hanging half-cut from the roof, boulders large
+enough to fashion a temple column.
+
+"What awful place is this, my uncle?" she asked.
+
+"The cavern whence Solomon, the great king, drew stone for the
+building of the Temple. Look, here are his mason's marks upon the
+wall. Here he fashioned the blocks and thus it happened that no sound
+of saw or hammer was heard within the building. Doubtless also other
+kings before and since his day have used this quarry, as no man knows
+its age."
+
+While he spoke thus he was leading her onwards over the rough, stone-
+hewn floor, where the damp gathered in little pools. Following the
+windings of the cave they turned once, then again and yet again, so
+that soon Miriam was utterly bewildered and could not have found her
+way back to the entrance for her life's sake. Moreover, the air had
+become so hot and stifling that she could scarcely breathe.
+
+"It will be better presently," said Ithiel, noticing her distress, as
+he drew her limping after him into what seemed to be a natural crevice
+of rock hardly large enough to allow the passage of his body. Along
+this crevice they scrambled for eight or ten paces, to find themselves
+suddenly in a tunnel lined with masonry, and so large that they could
+stand upright.
+
+"Once it was a watercourse," explained Ithiel, "that filled the great
+tank, but now it has been dry for centuries."
+
+Down this darksome shaft hobbled Miriam, till presently it ended in a
+wall, or what seemed to be a wall--for when Ithiel pressed upon a
+stone it turned. Beyond it the tunnel continued for twenty or thirty
+paces, leading them at length into a vast chamber with arched roof and
+cemented sides and bottom, which in some bygone age had been a water-
+tank. Here lights were burning, and even a charcoal fire, at which a
+brother was engaged in cooking. Also the air was pure and sweet,
+doubtless because of the winding water-channels that ran upwards. Nor
+did the place lack inhabitants, for there, seated in groups round the
+tapers, or watching the cooking over the charcoal fire, were forty or
+fifty men, still clad, for the most part, in the robes of the Essenes.
+
+"Brethren," cried Ithiel, in answer to the challenge of one who was
+set to watch the entry, "I bring back to you her whom we lost a while
+ago, the lady Miriam."
+
+They heard, and seizing the tapers, ran forward.
+
+"It is she!" they cried, "our queen and none other, and with her
+Nehushta the Libyan! Welcome, welcome, a thousand times, dear lady!"
+
+Miriam greeted them one and all, and before these greetings were
+finished they brought her food to eat, rough but wholesome, also good
+wine and sweet water. Then while she ate she heard all their story. It
+seemed that more than a year ago the Romans, marching on Jericho, had
+fallen upon their village and put a number of them to death, seizing
+others as slaves. Thereon the remnant fled to Jerusalem, where many
+more perished, for, being peaceable folk, all the factions robbed and
+slew them. Seeing, at last, that to live at large in the city would be
+to doom themselves to extinction, and yet not daring to leave it, they
+sought a refuge in this underground place, of which, as it chanced,
+one of their brethren had the secret. This he had inherited from his
+father, so that it was known to no other living man.
+
+Here by degrees they laid up a great store of provisions of all sorts,
+of charcoal for burning, and other necessaries, carrying into the
+place also clothes, bedding, cooking utensils and even some rough
+furniture. These preparations being made, the fifty of them who
+remained removed themselves to the vaults where now they had already
+dwelt three months, and here, so far as was possible, continued to
+practise the rules of their order. Miriam asked how they kept their
+health in this darkness, to which they replied that sometimes they
+went out by that path which she had just followed, and mingled with
+the people in the city, returning to their hole at night. Ithiel and
+his companion were on such a journey when they found her. Also they
+had another passage to the upper air which they would show her later.
+
+When Miriam had finished eating, dressed her hurt, and rested a while,
+they took her to explore the wonders of the place. Beyond this great
+cistern, that was their common room, lay more to the number of six or
+seven, one of the smallest of which was given to Nehushta and herself
+to dwell in. Others were filled with stores enough to last them all
+for months. Last of all was a cave, not very large, but deep, which
+always held sweet water. Doubtless there was a spring at the bottom of
+it, which, when the other rain-fed tanks grew dry, still kept it
+supplied. From this cistern that had been used for generations after
+the others were abandoned, a little stair ran upwards, worn smooth by
+the feet of folk long dead, who had come hither to draw water.
+
+"Where does it lead?" asked Miriam.
+
+"To the ruined tower above," answered Ithiel. "Nay, another time I
+will show you. Now your place is made ready for you, go, let Nehushta
+bathe your foot, and sleep, for you must need it sorely."
+
+So Miriam went and laid herself down to rest in the little cemented
+vault which was to be her home for four long months; and being worn
+out, notwithstanding the sufferings she had passed and her fears for
+her grandfather, slept there as soundly as ever she had done in her
+wind-swept chamber at the palace of Tyre, or in her house at the
+village of the Essenes.
+
+When she awoke and saw the darkness all about her, she thought that it
+must be night; then remembering that in this place it was always
+night, called to Nehushta, who uncovered the little lamp that burned
+in a corner of the vault, and went out, to return presently with the
+news that according to the Essenes, it was day. So she rose and put on
+her robes, and they passed together into the great chamber. Here they
+found the Essenes at prayer and making their reverences to the sun
+which they could not see, after which they ate their morning meal. Now
+Miriam spoke to Ithiel, telling him of her trouble about her
+grandfather, who, if he himself still lived, would think that she was
+dead.
+
+"One thing is certain," replied her great-uncle: "that you shall not
+go out to seek him, nor must you tell him of your hiding-place, since
+soon or late this might mean that all of us would be destroyed, if
+only for the sake of the food which we have hoarded."
+
+Miriam asked if she could not send a message. He answered:
+
+"No, since none would dare to take it." In the end, however, after she
+had pleaded with him long and earnestly, it was agreed that she should
+write the words, "I am safe and well, but in a place that I must not
+tell you of," and sign her name upon a piece of parchment. This letter
+Ithiel, who purposed to creep out into the city that evening disguised
+as a beggar, to seek for tidings, said he would take, and, if might
+be, bribe some soldier to deliver it to Benoni at the house of the
+high priest, if he were there.
+
+So Miriam wrote the letter, and at nightfall Ithiel and another
+brother departed, taking it with them.
+
+On the following morning they returned, safe, but with a dreadful tale
+of the slaughters in the city and in the Temple courts, where the mad
+factions still fought furiously.
+
+"Your tidings, my uncle?" said Miriam, rising to meet him. "Does he
+still live?"
+
+"Be of good comfort," he answered. "Benoni reached the house of
+Mathias in safety, and Caleb also, and now they are sheltering within
+the Temple walls. This much I had from one of the high priest's
+guards, who, for the price of a piece of gold I gave him, swore that
+he would deliver the letter without fail. But, child, I will take no
+more, for that soldier eyed me curiously and said it was scarcely safe
+for beggars to carry gold."
+
+Miriam thanked him for his goodness and his news, saying that they
+lifted a weight from her heart.
+
+"I have other tidings that may perhaps make it lighter still," went on
+the old man, looking at her sideways. "Titus with a mighty host draws
+near to Jerusalem from Cæsarea."
+
+"There is no joy in that tale," replied Miriam, "for it means that the
+Holy City will be besieged and taken."
+
+"Nay, but among that host is one who, if all the stories are true,"
+and again he glanced at her face, "would rather take you than the
+city."
+
+"Who?" she said, pressing her hands against her heart and turning
+redder than the lamplight.
+
+"One of Titus' prefects of horse, the noble Roman, Marcus, whom in
+byegone days you knew by the banks of Jordan."
+
+Now the red blood fled back to Miriam's heart, and she turned so faint
+that had not the wall been near at hand she would have fallen.
+
+"Marcus?" she said. "Well, he swore that he would come, yet it will
+bring him little nearer me;" and she turned and sought her chamber.
+
+So Marcus had come. Since he sent the letter and the ring that was
+upon her hand, and the pearls which were about her throat, she had
+heard no more of him. Twice she had written and forwarded the writings
+by the most trusty messenger whom she could find, but whether they
+reached him she did not know. For more than two years the silence
+between them had been that of death, till, indeed, at times she
+thought that he must be dead. And now he was come back, a commander in
+the army of Titus, who marched to punish the rebellious Jews. Would
+she ever see him again? Miriam could not tell. Yet she knelt and
+prayed from her pure heart that if it were once only, she might speak
+with him face to face. Indeed, it was this hope of meeting that, more
+than any other, supported her through all those dreadful days.
+
+A week went by, and although the hurt to her foot had healed, like
+some flower in the dark Miriam drooped and languished in those gloomy
+vaults. Twice she prayed her uncle to be allowed to creep to the mouth
+of the hole behind the ridge of rock, there to breathe the fresh air
+and see the blessed sky. But this he would not suffer. The thing was
+too dangerous, he said; for although none knew the secret of their
+hiding-place, already two or three fugitives had found their way into
+the quarries by other entrances, and these it was very difficult to
+pass unseen.
+
+"So be it," answered Miriam, and crept back to her cell.
+
+Nehushta looked after her anxiously, then said:
+
+"If she cannot have air I think that she will soon die. Is there no
+way?"
+
+"One," answered Ithiel, "but I fear to take it. The staircase from the
+spring leads to an ancient tower that, I am told, once was a palace of
+the kings, but now for these many years has been deserted, for its
+entrance is bricked up lest thieves should make it their home. None
+can come into that tower, nor is it used for purposes of war, not
+standing upon any wall, and there she might sit at peace and see the
+sun; yet I fear to let her do so."
+
+"It must be risked," answered Nehushta. "Take me to visit this place."
+
+So Ithiel led her to the cistern, and from the cistern up a flight of
+steps to a little vaulted chamber, into which they entered through a
+stone trap-door, made of the same substance as the paving of the
+chamber, so that, when it was closed, none would guess that there was
+a passage beneath. From this old store-room, for such it doubtless
+was, ran more steps, ending, to all appearance, in a blank wall.
+Coming to it, Ithiel thrust a piece of flat iron, a foot or more in
+length, into a crack in this wall, lifted some stone latch within, and
+pushed, whereon a block of masonry of something more than the height
+and width of a man, and quite a yard in thickness, swung outwards.
+Nehushta passed through the aperture, followed by Ithiel.
+
+"See," he said, loosing his hold of the stone, which without noise
+instantly closed, so that behind them there appeared to be nothing but
+a wall, "it is well hung, is it not? and to come hither without this
+iron would be dangerous. Here is the crack where it must be set to
+lift the latch within."
+
+"Whoever lived here guarded their food and water well," answered
+Nehushta.
+
+Then Ithiel showed her the place. It was a massive tower of a square
+of about forty feet, whereof the only doorway, as he told her, had
+been bricked up many years before to keep the thieves and vagabonds
+from sheltering there. In height it must have measured nearly a
+hundred feet, and its roof had long ago rotted away. The staircase,
+which was of stone, still remained, however, leading to four
+galleries, also of stone. Perhaps once there were floors as well, but
+if so these had vanished, only the stone galleries and their
+balustrades remaining. Ithiel led Nehushta up the stair, which, though
+narrow, was safe and easy. Resting at each story, at length they came
+to that gallery which projected from its sides within ten feet of the
+top of the tower, and saw Jerusalem and the country round spread like
+a map beneath. Then, as it was sunset, they returned. At the foot of
+the stair Ithiel gave Nehushta the piece of iron and showed her how to
+lift the secret latch and pull upon the block of hewn stone that was a
+door, so that it opened to swing to again behind them.
+
+Next morning, before it was dawn in the world above, Miriam aroused
+Nehushta. She had been promised that this day she should be taken up
+the Old Tower, and so great was her longing for the scent of the free
+air and the sight of the blue sky that she had scarcely closed her
+eyes this night.
+
+"Have patience, lady," said Nehushta, "have patience. We cannot start
+until the Essenes have finished their prayers to the sun, which, down
+in this black hole, they worship more earnestly than ever."
+
+So Miriam waited, though she would eat nothing, till at length Ithiel
+came and led them past the cistern up the stairs to the store or
+treasure chamber, where the trap-door stood wide, since, except in
+case of some danger, they had no need to shut it. Next, they reached
+the door of solid stone which Ithiel showed her how to open, and
+entered the base of the massive building. There, far above her, Miriam
+saw the sky again, red from the lights of morning, and at the sight of
+it clapped her hands and called aloud.
+
+"Hush!" said Ithiel. "These walls are thick, yet it is not safe to
+raise a voice of joy in Jerusalem, that home of a thousand miseries,
+lest, perchance, some should hear it through a cleft in the masonry,
+and cause search to be made for the singer. Now, if you will, follow
+me."
+
+So they went up and up, till at last they reached the topmost gallery,
+where the wall was pierced with loopholes and overhanging platforms,
+whence stones and other missiles could be hurled upon an attacking
+force. Miriam looked out eagerly, walking round the gallery from
+aperture to aperture.
+
+To the south lay the marble courts and glittering buildings of the
+Temple, whence, although men fought daily in them, the smoke of
+sacrifice still curled up to heaven. Behind these were the Upper and
+the Lower City, crowded with thousands of houses, packed, every one of
+them, with human beings who had fled hither for refuge, or,
+notwithstanding the dangers of the time, to celebrate the Passover. To
+the east was the rugged valley of Jehoshaphat, and beyond it the Mount
+of Olives, green with trees soon to be laid low by the Romans. To the
+north the new city of Bezetha, bordered by the third wall and the
+rocky lands beyond. Not far away, also, but somewhat in front of them
+and to the left, rose the mighty tower of Antonia, now one of the
+strongholds of John of Gischala and the Zealots, while also to the
+west, across the width of the city, were the towers of Hippicus,
+Phasæl and Mariamne, backed by the splendid palace of Herod. Besides
+these were walls, fortresses, gates and palaces without number, so
+intricate and many that the eye could scarcely follow or count them,
+and, between, the numberless narrow streets of Jerusalem. These and
+many other things Ithiel pointed out to Miriam, who listened eagerly
+till he wearied of the task. Then they looked downwards through the
+overhanging platforms of stone to the large market-place beneath and
+to the front, and upon the roofs of the houses, mostly of the humbler
+sort, that were built behind almost up to the walls of the Old Tower,
+whereon many people were gathered as though for safety, eating their
+morning meal, talking anxiously together, and even praying.
+
+Whilst they were thus engaged, Nehushta touched Miriam and pointed to
+the road which ran from the Valley of Thorns on the northeast. She
+looked, and saw a great cloud of dust that advanced swiftly, and
+presently, through the dust, the sheen of spears and armour.
+
+"The Romans!" said Nehushta quietly.
+
+She was not the only one who had caught sight of them, for suddenly
+the battlement of every wall and tower, the roof of every lofty house,
+the upper courts of the Temple, and all high places became crowded
+with thousands and tens of thousands of heads, each of them staring
+towards that advancing dust. In silence they stared as though their
+multitudes were stricken dumb, till presently, from far below out of
+the maze of winding streets, floated the wail of a single voice.
+
+"Woe, woe to Jerusalem!" said the voice. "Woe, woe to the City and the
+Temple!"
+
+They shuddered, and as it seemed to them, all the listening thousands
+within reach of that mournful cry shuddered also.
+
+"Aye!" repeated Ithiel, "woe to Jerusalem, for yonder comes her doom."
+
+Now on the more rocky ground the dust grew thinner, and through it
+they could distinguish the divisions of the mighty army of destroyers.
+First came thousands of Syrian allies and clouds of scouts and
+archers, who searched the country far and wide. Next appeared the
+road-makers and the camp-setters, the beasts of burden with the
+general's baggage and its great escort, followed by Titus himself, his
+bodyguard and officers, by pikemen and by horsemen. Then were seen
+strange and terrible-looking engines of war beyond count, and with
+them the tribunes, and the captains of cohorts and their guards who
+preceded the engines, and that "abomination of desolation," the Roman
+Eagles, surrounded by bands of trumpeters, who from time to time
+uttered their loud, defiant note. After them marched the vast army in
+ranks six deep, divided into legions and followed by their camp-
+bearers and squadrons of horse. Lastly were seen the packs of baggage,
+and mercenaries by thousands and tens of thousands. On the Hill of
+Saul the great host halted and began to encamp. An hour later a band
+of horsemen five or six hundred strong emerged out of this camp and
+marched along the straight road to Jerusalem.
+
+"It is Titus himself," said Ithiel. "See, the Imperial Standard goes
+before him."
+
+On they came till, from their lofty perch, Miriam, who was keen-
+sighted, could see their separate armour and tell the colour of their
+horses. Eagerly she searched them with her eyes, for well she guessed
+that Marcus would be one of those who accompanied his general upon
+this service. That plumed warrior might be he, or that with the purple
+cloak, or that who galloped out from near by the Standard on an
+errand. He was there; she was sure he was there, and yet they were as
+far apart as when the great sea rolled between them.
+
+Now, as they reconnoitred and were passing the Tower of Women, of a
+sudden the gate opened, and from alleys and houses where they had lain
+in ambush were poured out thousands of Jews. Right through the thin
+line of horsemen they pierced, uttering savage cries, then doubled
+back upon the severed ends. Many were cut down; Miriam could see them
+falling from their horses. The Imperial Standard sank, then rose and
+sank again to rise once more. Now dust hid the combat, and she thought
+that all the Romans must be slain. But no, for presently they began to
+appear beyond the dust, riding back by the way they had come, though
+fewer than they were. They had charged through the multitude of Jews
+and escaped. But who had escaped and who were left behind? Ah! that
+she could not tell; and it was with a sick and anxious heart that
+Miriam descended the steps of the tower into the darkness of the
+caves.
+
+
+
+                              CHAPTER XV
+
+                       WHAT PASSED IN THE TOWER
+
+Nearly four months had gone by. Perhaps, during the whole history of
+the world there never has been and never will be more cruel suffering
+than was endured by the inhabitants of Jerusalem during that period,
+or rather by the survivors of the nation of the Jews who were crowded
+together within its walls. Forgetting their internecine quarrels in
+the face of overwhelming danger, too late the factions united and
+fought against the common foe with a ferocity that has been seldom
+equalled. They left nothing undone which desperate men could do. Again
+and again they sallied forth against the Romans, slaughtering
+thousands of them. They captured their battering-rams and catapults.
+They undermined the great wooden towers which Titus erected against
+their walls, and burnt them. With varying success they made sally upon
+sally. Titus took the third wall and the new city of Bezetha. He took
+the second wall and pulled it down. Then he sent Josephus, the
+historian, to persuade the Jews to surrender, but his countrymen
+cursed and stoned him, and the war went on.
+
+At length, as it seemed to be impossible to carry the place by
+assault, Titus adopted a surer and more terrible plan. Enclosing the
+first unconquered wall, the Temple, and the fortress by another wall
+of his own making, he sat down and waited for starvation to do its
+work. Then came the famine. At the beginning, before the maddened,
+devil-inspired factions began to destroy each other and to prey upon
+the peaceful people, Jerusalem was amply provisioned. But each party
+squandered the stores that were within its reach, and, whenever they
+could do so, burnt those of their rivals, so that the food which might
+have supplied the whole city for months, vanished quickly in orgies of
+wanton waste and destruction. Now all, or almost all, was gone, and by
+tens and hundreds of thousands the people starved.
+
+Those who are curious about such matters, those who desire to know how
+much human beings can endure, and of what savagery they can be capable
+when hunger drives them, may find these details set out in the pages
+of Josephus, the renegade Jewish historian. It serves no good purpose
+and will not help our story to repeat them; indeed for the most part
+they are too terrible to be repeated. History does not record, and the
+mind of man cannot invent a cruelty which was not practised by the
+famished Jews upon other Jews suspected of the crime of having hidden
+food to feed themselves or their families. Now the fearful prophecy
+was fulfilled, and it came about that mothers devoured their own
+infants, and children snatched the last morsel of bread from the lips
+of their dying parents. If these things were done between those who
+were of one blood, what dreadful torment was there that was not
+practised by stranger upon stranger? The city went mad beneath the
+weight of its abominable and obscene misery. Thousands perished every
+day, and every night thousands more escaped, or attempted to escape,
+to the Romans, who caught the poor wretches and crucified them beneath
+the walls, till there was no more wood of which to make the crosses,
+and no more ground whereon to stand them.
+
+
+
+All these things and many others Miriam saw from her place of outlook
+in the gallery of the deserted tower. She saw the people lying dead by
+hundreds in the streets beneath. She saw the robbers hale them from
+their houses and torture them to discover the hiding-place of the food
+which they were supposed to have hidden, and when they failed, put
+them to the sword. She saw the Valley of the Kidron and the lower
+slopes of the Mount of Olives covered with captive Jews writhing on
+their crosses, there to die as the Messiah whom they had rejected,
+died. She saw the furious attacks, the yet more furious sallies and
+the dreadful daily slaughter, till at length her heart grew so sick
+within her, that although she still took refuge in the ruined tower to
+escape the gloom beneath, Miriam would spend whole hours lying on her
+face, her fingers thrust into her ears, that she might shut out the
+sights and sounds of this unutterable woe.
+
+Meanwhile, the Essenes, who still had stores of food, ventured forth
+but rarely, lest the good condition of their bodies, although their
+faces were white as death from dwelling in the darkness, should tempt
+the starving hordes to seize and torture them in the hope of
+discovering the hiding-places of their nutriment. Indeed, to several
+of the brethren this happened; but in obedience to their oaths, as
+will be seen in the instance of the past President Theophilus--who
+went out and was no more heard of--they endured all and died without a
+murmur, having betrayed nothing. Still, notwithstanding the danger,
+driven to it by utter weariness of their confinement in the dark and
+by the desire of obtaining news, from time to time one of them would
+creep forth at night to return again before daybreak. From these men
+Miriam heard that after the murder of the high priest Mathias and his
+sons, together with sixteen of the Sanhedrim, on a charge of
+correspondence with the Romans, her grandfather, Benoni, had been
+elected to that body, in which he exercised much influence and caused
+many to be put to death who were accused of treason or of favouring
+the Roman cause. Caleb also was in the Temple and foremost in every
+fight. He was said to have sworn an oath that he would slay the
+Prefect of Horse, Marcus, with whom he had an ancient quarrel, or be
+slain himself. It was told, indeed, that they had met once already and
+struck some blows at each other, before they were separated by an
+accident of war.
+
+The beginning of August came at length, and the wretched city, in
+addition to its other miseries, panted in the heat of a scorching
+summer sun and was poisoned by the stench from the dead bodies that
+filled the streets and were hurled in thousands from the walls. Now
+the Romans had set up their battering engines at the very gates of the
+Temple, and slowly but surely were winning their way into its outer
+courts.
+
+On a certain night, about an hour before the dawn, Miriam woke
+Nehushta, telling her that she was stifling there in those vaults and
+must ascend the tower. Nehushta said that it was folly, whereon Miriam
+answered that she would go alone. This she would not suffer her to do,
+so together they passed up the stairs according to custom, and, having
+gained the base of the tower through the swinging door of stone,
+climbed the steps that ran in the thickness of the wall till they
+reached the topmost gallery. Here they sat, fanned by the faint night
+wind, and watched the fires of the Romans stretched far and wide
+around the walls and even among the ruins of the houses almost beneath
+them, since that part of the city was taken.
+
+Presently the dawn broke, a splendid, fearful dawn. It was as though
+the angel of the daybreak had dipped his wing into a sea of blood and
+dashed it against the brow of Night, still crowned with her fading
+stars. Of a sudden the heavens were filled with blots and threads of
+flaming colour latticed against the pale background of the twilight
+sky. Miriam watched it with a kind of rapture, letting its glory and
+its peace sink into her troubled soul, while from below arose the
+sound of awakening camps making ready for the daily battle. Soon a ray
+of burning light, cast like a spear from the crest of the Mount of
+Olives across the Valley of Jehoshaphat, struck full upon the gold-
+roofed Temple and its courts. At its coming, as though at a signal,
+the northern gates were thrown wide, and through them poured a flood
+of gaunt and savage warriors. They came on in thousands, uttering
+fierce war-cries. Some pickets of Romans tried to stay their rush; in
+a minute they were overcome and destroyed. Now they were surging round
+the feet of a great wooden tower filled with archers. Here the fight
+was desperate, for the soldiers of Titus rushed up by companies to
+defend their engine. But they could not drive back that onset, and
+presently the tower was on fire, and in a last mad effort to save
+their lives its defenders were casting themselves headlong from the
+lofty platform. With shouts of triumph the Jews rushed through the
+breaches in the second wall, and leaving what remained of the castle
+of Antonia on the left, poured down into the maze of streets and
+ruined houses that lay immediately behind the Old Tower whence Miriam
+watched.
+
+In front of this building, which the Romans had never attempted to
+enter, since for military purposes it was useless to them, lay the
+open space, once, no doubt, part of its garden, but of late years used
+as a cattle market and a place where young men exercised themselves in
+arms. Bordering the waste on its further side were strong
+fortifications, the camping ground of the twelfth and fifteenth
+legions. Across this open space those who remained of the Romans fled
+back towards their outer line, followed by swarms of furious Jews.
+They gained them, such as were not overtaken, but the Jews who pursued
+were met with so fierce a charge, delivered by the fresh troops behind
+the defences, that they were in turn swept back and took refuge among
+the ruined houses. Suddenly Miriam's attention became concentrated
+upon the mounted officer who led this charge, a gallant-looking man
+clad in splendid armour, whose clear, ringing voice, as he uttered the
+words of command, had caught her ear even through the tumult and the
+shouting. The Roman onslaught having reached its limit, began to fall
+back again like the water from an exhausted wave upon a slope of sand.
+At the moment the Jews were in no condition to press the enemy's
+retreat, so that the mounted officer who withdrew last of all, had
+time to turn his horse, and heedless of the arrows that sang about
+him, to study the ground now strewn with the wounded and the dead.
+Presently he looked up at the deserted tower as though wondering
+whether he could make use of it, and Miriam saw his face. It was
+Marcus, grown older, more thoughtful also, and altered somewhat by a
+short curling beard, but still Marcus and no other.
+
+"Look! look!" she said.
+
+Nehushta nodded. "Yes, it is he; I thought so from the first. And now,
+having seen him, lady, shall we be going?"
+
+"Going?" said Miriam, "wherefore?"
+
+"Because one army or the other may chance to think that this building
+would be useful to them, and break open the walled-up door. Also they
+might explore this staircase, and then----"
+
+"And then," answered Miriam quietly, "we should be taken. What of it?
+If the Jews find us we are of their party; if the Romans--well, I do
+not greatly fear the Romans."
+
+"You mean you do not fear one Roman. But who knows, but that he may
+presently lie dead----"
+
+"Oh! say it not," answered Miriam, pressing her hand upon her heart.
+"Nay, safe or unsafe, I will see this fight out. Look, yonder is Caleb
+--yes, Caleb himself, shouting to the Jews. How fierce is his face,
+like that of a hyena in a snare. Nay, now I will not go--go you and
+leave me in peace to watch the end."
+
+"Since you are too heavy and strong for my old arms to carry down
+those steep steps, so be it," answered Nehushta calmly. "After all, we
+have food with us, and our angels can guard us as well on the top of a
+tower as in those dirty cisterns. Also this fray is worth the
+watching."
+
+As she spoke, the Romans having re-formed, led by the Prefect Marcus
+and other officers, advanced from their entrenchment, to be met half-
+way by the Jews, now reinforced from the Temple, among whom was Caleb.
+There, in the open space, they fought hand to hand, for neither force
+would yield an inch. Miriam, watching through the stone bars from
+above, had eyes for only two of all that multitude of men--Marcus,
+whom she loved, and Caleb, whom she feared. Marcus was attacked by a
+Jew, who stabbed his horse, to be instantly stabbed himself by a Roman
+who came to the rescue of his commander. After this he fought on foot.
+Caleb killed first one soldier than another. Watching him, Miriam grew
+aware that he was cutting his way towards some point, and that the
+point was Marcus. This Marcus seemed to know; at least, he also strove
+to cut his way towards Caleb. Nearer and nearer they came, till at
+length they met and began to rain blows upon each other; but not for
+long, for just then a charge of some Roman horsemen separated them.
+After this both parties retired to their lines, taking their wounded
+with them.
+
+Thus, with pauses, sometimes of two or three hours, the fight went on
+from morning to noon, and from noon to sunset. During the latter part
+of the time the Romans made no more attacks, but were contented with
+defending themselves while they awaited reinforcements from without
+the city, or perhaps the results of some counter-attack in another
+part.
+
+Thus the advantage rested, or seemed to rest, with the Jews, who held
+all the ruined houses and swept the open space with their arrows. Now
+it was that Nehushta's fears were justified, for having a little
+leisure the Jews took a beam of wood and battered in the walled-up
+doorway of the tower.
+
+"Look!" said Nehushta, pointing down.
+
+"Oh, Nou!" Miriam answered, "I was wrong. I have run you into danger.
+But indeed I could not go. What shall we do now?"
+
+"Sit quiet until they come to take us," said Nehushta grimly, "and
+then, if they give us time, explain as best we may."
+
+As it chanced, however, the Jews did not come, since they feared that
+if they mounted the stair some sudden rush of Romans might trap such
+of them as were within before they had time to descend again. Only
+they made use of the base of the tower to shelter those of their
+wounded whose hurts were so desperate that they dared not move them.
+
+Now the fighting having ceased for a while, the soldiers of both sides
+amused themselves with shouting taunts and insults at each other, or
+challenges to single combat. Presently Caleb stepped forward from the
+shelter of a wall and called out that if the Prefect Marcus would meet
+him alone in the open space he had something to say which he would be
+glad to hear. Thereupon Marcus, stepping out from his defences, where
+several of his officers seemed to be striving to detain him, answered:
+
+"I will come," and walked to the centre of the market, where he was
+met by Caleb.
+
+Here the two of them spoke together alone, but of what they said
+Miriam and Nehushta, watching them from above, could catch no word.
+
+"Oh! will they fight?" said Miriam.
+
+"It seems likely, since each of them has sworn to slay the other,"
+answered Nehushta.
+
+While she spoke Marcus, shaking his head as though to decline some
+proposal, and pointing to the men of his command, who stood up
+watching him, turned to walk back to his own lines, followed by Caleb,
+who shouted out that he was a coward and did not dare to stand alone
+before him. At this insult Marcus winced, then went on again,
+doubtless because he thought it his duty to rejoin his company,
+whereon Caleb, drawing his sword, struck him with the flat of it
+across the back. Now the Jews laughed, while the Romans uttered a
+shout of rage at the intolerable affront offered to their commander.
+As for Marcus, he wheeled round, sword in hand, and flew straight at
+Caleb's throat.
+
+But it was for this that the Jew had been waiting, since he knew that
+no Roman, and least of all Marcus, would submit to the indignity of
+such a blow. As his adversary came on, made almost blind with fury, he
+leapt to one side lightly as a lion leaps, and with all the force of
+his long sinewy arm brought down his heavy sword upon the head of
+Marcus. The helm was good, or the skull beneath must have been split
+in two by that blow, which, as it was, shore through it and bit deeply
+into the bone. Beneath the shock Marcus staggered, threw his arms
+wide, and let fall his sword. With a shout Caleb sprang at him to make
+an end of him, but before he could strike the Roman seemed to recover
+himself, and, knowing that his weapon was gone, did the only thing he
+could, rushed straight at his foe. Caleb's sword fell on his shoulder,
+but the tempered mail withstood it, and next instant Marcus had
+gripped him in his arms. Down they came together to the earth, rolling
+over each other, the Jew trying to stab the Roman, the Roman to choke
+the Jew with his bare hand. Then from the Roman lines rose a cry of
+"Rescue!" and from the Jews a cry of "Take him."
+
+Out poured the combatants from either side of the market-place by
+hundreds and by thousands, and there in its centre, round the
+struggling forms of Caleb and of Marcus, began the fiercest fight of
+all that day. Where men stood, there they fell, for none would give
+back, since the Romans, outnumbered though they were, preferred to die
+rather than leave a wounded and beloved captain a prisoner in the
+hands of cruel enemies, while the Jews knew too well the value of such
+a prize to let it escape them easily. So great was the slaughter that
+presently Marcus and Caleb were hidden beneath the bodies of the
+fallen. More and more Jews rushed into the fray, but still the Romans
+pushed onwards with steady valour, fighting shoulder to shoulder and
+shield to shield.
+
+Then of a sudden, with a savage yell a fresh body of Jews, three or
+four hundred strong, appeared at the west end of the market-place, and
+charged upon the Romans, taking them in flank. The officer in command
+saw his danger, and knowing that it was better that his captain should
+die than that the whole company should be destroyed and the arms of
+Cæsar suffer a grave defeat, gave orders for a retirement. Steadily,
+as though they were on parade, and dragging with them those of their
+wounded comrades who could not walk, the legionaries fell back,
+heedless of the storm of spears and arrows, reaching their own lines
+before the outflanking body of Jews could get among them. Then seeing
+that there was nothing more to be gained, since to attempt to storm
+the Roman works was hopeless, the victorious Jews also retreated, this
+time not to the houses behind the tower, but only to the old market
+wall thirty or forty paces in front of it, which they proceeded to
+hold and strengthen in the fading light. Seeing that they were lost,
+such of the wounded Romans as remained upon the field committed
+suicide, preferring to fall upon their own spears than into the hands
+of the Jews to be tortured and crucified. Also for this deed they had
+another reason, since it was the decree of Titus that any soldier who
+was taken living should be publicly disgraced by name and expelled
+from the ranks of the legion, and, if recaptured, in addition suffer
+death or banishment.
+
+Gladly would Marcus have followed their example and thereby--though he
+knew it not--save himself much misery and shame in the future, but he
+had neither time nor weapon; moreover, so weak was he with struggling
+and the loss of blood, that even as he and Caleb were dragged by
+savage hands from among the fallen, he fainted. At first they thought
+that he was dead, but one of the Jews, who chanced to be a physician
+by trade, declared that this was not so, and that if he were left
+quiet for a while, he would come to himself again. Therefore, as they
+desired to preserve this Prefect alive, either to be held as an
+hostage or to be executed in sight of the army of Titus, they brought
+him into the Old Tower, clearing it of their own wounded, except such
+of them as had already breathed their last. Here they set a guard over
+him, though of this there seemed to be little need, and went under the
+command of the victorious Caleb to assist in strengthening the market-
+wall.
+
+All of these things Miriam watched from above in such an agony of fear
+and doubt, that at times she thought that she would die. She saw her
+lover and Caleb fall locked in each other's arms; she saw the hideous
+fray that raged around them. She saw them dragged from the heap of
+slain, and at the end of it all, by the last light of day, saw Marcus,
+living or dead, she knew not which, borne into the tower, and there
+laid upon the ground.
+
+"Take comfort," whispered Nehushta, pitying her dreadful grief. "The
+lord Marcus lives. If he were dead they would have stripped him and
+left his body with the others. He lives, and they purpose to hold him
+captive, else they would have suffered Caleb to put his sword through
+him, as you noted he wished to do so soon as he found his feet."
+
+"Captive," answered Miriam. "That means that he will be crucified like
+the others whom we saw yesterday upon the Temple wall."
+
+Nehushta shrugged her shoulders.
+
+"It may be so," she said, "unless he finds means to destroy himself or
+--is saved."
+
+"Saved! How can he be saved?" Then in her woe the poor girl fell upon
+her knees clasping her hands and murmuring: "Oh! Jesus Christ whom I
+serve, teach me how to save Marcus. Oh! Jesus, I love him, although he
+is not a Christian; love him also because I love him, and teach me how
+to save him. Or if one must die, take my life for his, oh! take my
+life for his."
+
+"Cease," said Nehushta, "for I think I hear an answer to your prayer.
+Look now, he is laid just where the stair starts and not six feet from
+the stone door that leads down into the cistern. Except for some dead
+men the tower is empty; also the two sentries stand outside the breach
+in the brickwork with which it was walled up, because there they find
+more light, and their prisoner is unarmed and helpless, and cannot
+attempt escape. Now, if the Roman lives and can stand, why should we
+not open that door and thrust him through it?"
+
+"But the Jews might see us and discover the secret of the hiding-place
+of the Essenes, whom they would kill because they have hidden food."
+
+"Once we were the other side of the door, they could never come at
+them, even if they have time to try," answered Nehushta. "Before ever
+they could burst the door the stone trap beneath can be closed and the
+roof of the stair that leads to it let down by knocking away the props
+and flooded in such a fashion that a week of labour would not clear it
+out again. Oh! have no fear, the Essenes know and have guarded against
+this danger."
+
+Miriam threw her arms about the neck of Nehushta and kissed her.
+
+"We will try, Nou, we will try," she whispered, "and if we fail, why
+then we can die with him."
+
+"To you that prospect may be pleasing, but I have no desire to die
+with the lord Marcus," answered Nehushta drily. "Indeed, although I
+like him well, were it not for your sake I should leave him to his
+chance. Nay, do not answer or give way to too much hope. Remember,
+perhaps he is dead, as he seems to be."
+
+"Yes, yes," said Miriam wildly, "we must find out. Shall we go now?"
+
+"Aye, while there is still a little light, for these steps are
+breakneck in the dark. No, do you follow me."
+
+So on they glided down the ancient, darksome stairway, where owls
+hooted and bats flittered in their faces. Now they were at the last
+flight, which descended to a little recess set at right angles to the
+steps and flush with the floor of the basement, for once the door of
+the stairway had opened here. Thus a person standing on the last stair
+could not be seen by any in the tower. They reached the step and
+halted. Then very stealthily Nehushta went on to her hands and knees
+and thrust her head forward so that she could look into the base of
+the tower. It was dark as the grave, only a faint gleam of starlight
+reflected from his armour showed where Marcus lay, so close that she
+could touch him with her hand. Also almost opposite to her the gloom
+was relieved by a patch of faint grey light. Here it was that the wall
+had been broken in, for Nehushta could see the shadows of the sentries
+crossing and recrossing before the ragged opening.
+
+She leant yet lower towards Marcus and listened. He was not dead, for
+he breathed. More, she heard him stir his hand and thought that she
+could see it move upwards towards his wounded head. Then she drew
+back.
+
+"Lady," she whispered, "he lives, and I think he is awake. Now you
+must do the rest as your wit may teach you how, for if I speak to him
+he will be frightened, but your voice he may remember if he has his
+senses."
+
+At these words all her doubts and fears seemed to vanish from Miriam's
+heart, her hand grew steady and her brain clear, for Nature told her
+that if she wished to save her lover she would need both clear brain
+and steady hand. The timid, love-racked girl was transformed into a
+woman of iron will and purpose. In her turn she kneeled and crept a
+little forward from the stair, so that her face hung over the face of
+Marcus. Then she spoke in a soft whisper.
+
+"Marcus, awake and listen, Marcus; but I pray of you do not stir or
+make a noise. I am Miriam, whom once you knew."
+
+At this name the dim form beneath her seemed to quiver, and the lips
+muttered, "Now I know that I am dead. Well, it is better than I hoped
+for. Speak on, sweet shade of Miriam."
+
+"Nay, Marcus, you are not dead, you are only wounded and I am not a
+spirit, I am a woman, that woman whom once you knew down by the banks
+of Jordan. I have come to save you, I and Nehushta. If you will obey
+what I tell you, and if you have the strength to stand, we can guide
+you into a secret place where the Essenes are hidden, who for my sake
+will take care of you until you are able to return to the Romans. If
+you do not escape I fear that the Jews will crucify you."
+
+"By Bacchus, so do I," said the whisper beneath, "and that will be
+worse than being beaten by Caleb. But this is a dream, I know it is a
+dream. If it were Miriam I should see her, or be able to touch her. It
+is but a dream of Miriam. Let me dream on," and he turned his head.
+
+Miriam thought for a moment. Time was short and it was necessary to
+make him understand. Well, it was not difficult. Slowly she bent a
+little lower and pressed her lips upon his.
+
+"Marcus," she went on, "I kiss you now to show you that I am no dream
+and how needful it is that you should be awakened. Had I light I could
+prove to you that I am Miriam by your ring which is upon my fingers
+and your pearls which are about my neck."
+
+"Cease," he answered, "most beloved, I was weak and wandering, now I
+know that this is not a dream, and I thank Caleb who has brought us
+together again, against his wish, I think. Say, what must I do?"
+
+"Can you stand?" asked Miriam.
+
+"Perhaps. I am not sure. I will try."
+
+"Nay, wait. Nehushta, come hither; you are stronger than I. Now, while
+I unlatch the secret door, do you lift him up. Be swift, I hear the
+guard stirring without."
+
+Nehushta glided forward and knelt by the wounded man, placing her arms
+beneath him.
+
+"Ready," she said. "Here is the iron."
+
+Miriam took it, and stepping to the wall, felt with her fingers for
+the crack, which in that darkness it took time to find. At length she
+had it, and inserting the thin hooked iron, lifted the hidden latch
+and pulled. The stone door was very heavy and she needed all her
+strength to move it. At last it began to swing.
+
+"Now," she said to Nehushta, who straightened herself and dragged the
+wounded Marcus to his feet.
+
+"Quick, quick!" said Miriam, "the guards enter."
+
+Supported by Nehushta, Marcus took three tottering steps and reached
+the open door. Here, on its very threshold indeed, his strength failed
+him, for he was wounded in the knee as well as in the head. Groaning,
+"I cannot," he fell to the ground, dragging the old Libyan with him,
+his breastplate clattering loud against the stone threshold. The
+sentry without heard the sound and called to a companion to give him
+the lantern. In an instant Nehushta was up again, and seizing Marcus
+by his right arm, began to drag him through the opening, while Miriam,
+setting her back against the swinging stone to keep it from closing,
+pushed against his feet.
+
+The lantern appeared round the angle of the broken masonry.
+
+"For your life's sake!" said Miriam, and Nehushta dragged her hardest
+at the heavy, helpless body of the fallen man. He moved slowly. It was
+too late; if that light fell on him all was lost. In an instant Miriam
+took her resolve. With an effort she swung the door wide, then as
+Nehushta dragged again she sprang forward, keeping in the shadow of
+the wall. The Jew who held the lantern, alarmed by the sounds within,
+entered hastily and, catching his foot against the body of a dead man
+who lay there, stumbled so that he fell upon his knee. In her hand
+Miriam held the key, and as the guard regained his feet, but not
+before its light fell upon her, she struck with it at the lamp,
+breaking and extinguishing it.
+
+Then she turned to fly, for, as she knew well, the stone would now be
+swinging on its pivot.
+
+Alas! her chance had gone, for the man, stretching out his arm, caught
+her about the middle and held her fast, shouting loudly for help.
+Miriam struggled, she battered him with the iron and dragged at him
+with her left hand, but in vain, for in that grip she was helpless as
+a child who fights against its nurse. While she fought thus she heard
+the dull thud of the closing stone, and even in her despair rejoiced,
+knowing that until Marcus was beyond its threshold it could not be
+shut. Ceasing from her useless struggle she gathered the forces of her
+mind. Marcus was safe; the door was shut and could not be opened from
+the further side until another iron was procured; the guard had seen
+nothing. But her escape was impossible. Her part was played, only one
+thing remained for her to do--keep silence and his secret.
+
+Men bearing lights were rushing into the tower. Her right hand, which
+held the iron, was free, and lest it should tell a tale she cast the
+instrument from her towards that side of the deserted place which she
+knew was buried deep in fallen stones, fragments of rotted timber and
+dirt from the nests of birds. Then she stood still. Now they were upon
+her, Caleb at the head of them.
+
+"What is it?" he cried.
+
+"I know not," answered the guard. "I heard a sound as of clanking
+armour and ran in, when some one struck the lantern from my hand, a
+strong rascal with whom I have struggled sorely, notwithstanding the
+blows that he rained upon me with his sword. See, I hold him fast."
+
+They held up their lights and saw a beautiful, dishevelled maid, small
+and frail of stature, whereon they laughed out loud.
+
+"A strong thief, truly," said one. "Why, it is a girl! Do you summon
+the watch every time a girl catches hold of you?"
+
+Before the words died upon the speaker's lips, another man called out,
+"The Roman! The Prefect has gone! Where is the prisoner?" and with a
+roar of wrath they began to search the place, as a cat searches for
+the mouse that escapes her. Only Caleb stood still and stared at the
+girl.
+
+"Miriam!" he said.
+
+"Yes, Caleb," she answered quietly. "This is a strange meeting, is it
+not? Why do you break in thus upon my hiding-place?"
+
+"Woman," he shouted, mad with anger, "where have you hidden the
+Prefect Marcus?"
+
+"Marcus?" she answered; "is he here? I did not know it. Well, I saw a
+man run from the tower, perhaps that was he. Be swift and you may
+catch him."
+
+"No man left the tower," answered the other sentry. "Seize that woman,
+she has hidden the Roman in some secret place. Seize her and search."
+
+So they caught Miriam, bound her and began running round and round the
+wall. "Here is a staircase," called a man, "doubtless he has gone up
+it. Come, friends."
+
+Then taking lights with them, they mounted the stairs to the very top,
+but found no one. Even as they came down again a trumpet blew and from
+without rose the sound of a mighty shouting.
+
+"What happens now?" said one.
+
+As he spoke an officer appeared in the opening of the tower.
+
+"Begone," he cried. "Back to the Temple, taking your prisoner with
+you. Titus himself is upon us at the head of two fresh legions, mad at
+the loss of his Prefect and so many of his soldiers. Why! where is the
+wounded Roman, Marcus?"
+
+"He has vanished," answered Caleb sullenly. "Vanished"--here he
+glanced at Miriam with jealous and vindictive hate--"and in his place
+has left to us this woman, the grand-daughter of Benoni, Miriam, who
+strangely enough was once his love."
+
+"Is it so?" said the officer. "Girl, tell us what you have done with
+the Roman, or die. Come, we have no time to lose."
+
+"I have done nothing. I saw a man walk past the sentries, that is
+all."
+
+"She lies," said the officer contemptuously. "Here, kill this
+traitress."
+
+A man advanced lifting his sword, and Miriam, thinking that all was
+over, hid her eyes while she waited for the blow. Before it fell,
+however, Caleb whispered something to the officer which caused him to
+change his mind.
+
+"So be it," he said. "Hold your hand and take this woman with you to
+the Temple, there to be tried by her grandfather, Benoni, and the
+other judges of the Sanhedrim. They have means to cause the most
+obstinate to speak, whereas death seals the lips forever. Swift, now,
+swift, for already they are fighting on the market-place."
+
+So they seized Miriam and dragged her away from the Old Tower, which
+an hour later was taken possession of by the Romans, who destroyed it
+with the other buildings.
+
+
+
+                             CHAPTER XVI
+
+                            THE SANHEDRIM
+
+The Jewish soldiers haled Miriam roughly through dark and tortuous
+streets, bordered by burnt-out houses, and up steep stone slopes deep
+with the débris of the siege. Indeed, they had need to hasten, for,
+lit with the lamp of flaming dwellings, behind them flowed the tide of
+war. The Romans, driven back from this part of the city by that day's
+furious sally, under cover of the night were re-occupying in
+overwhelming strength the ground that they had lost, forcing the Jews
+before them and striving to cut them off from their stronghold in the
+Temple and that part of the Upper City which they still held.
+
+The party of Jews who had Miriam in their charge were returning to the
+Temple enclosure, which they could not reach from the north or east
+because the outer courts and cloisters of the Holy House were already
+in possession of the Romans. So it happened that they were obliged to
+make their way round by the Upper City, a long and tedious journey.
+Once during that night they were driven to cover until a great company
+of Romans had marched past. Caleb wished to attack them, but the other
+captains said that they were too few and weary, so they lay hid for
+nearly three hours, then went on again. After this there were other
+delays at gates still in the hands of their own people, which one by
+one were unbolted to them. Thus it was not far from daylight when at
+length they passed over a narrow bridge that spanned some ravine and
+through massive doors into a vast dim place which, as Miriam gathered
+from the talk of her captors, was the inner enclosure of the Temple.
+Here, at the command of that captain who had ordered her to be slain,
+she was thrust into a small cell in one of the cloisters. Then the men
+in charge of her locked the door and went away.
+
+Sinking exhausted to the floor, Miriam tried to sleep, but could not,
+for her brain seemed to be on fire. Whenever she shut her eyes there
+sprang up before them visions of some dreadful scene which she had
+witnessed, while in her ears echoed now the shouts of the victors, now
+the pitiful cry of the dying, and now again the voice of the wounded
+Marcus calling her "Most Beloved." Was this indeed so, she wondered?
+Was it possible that he had not forgotten her during those years of
+separation when there must have been so many lovely ladies striving to
+win him, the rich, high-placed Roman lord, to be their lover or their
+husband? She did not know, she could not tell: perhaps, in such a
+plight, he would have called any woman who came to save him his Most
+Beloved, yes, even old Nehushta, and even then and there she smiled a
+little at the thought. Yet his voice rang true, and he had sent her
+the ring, the pearls and the letter, that letter which, although she
+knew every word of it, she still carried hidden in the bosom of her
+robe. Oh! she believed that he did love her, and, believing, rejoiced
+with all her heart that it had pleased God to allow her to save his
+life, even at the cost of her own. She had forgotten. There was his
+wound--he might die of it. Nay, surely he would not die. For her sake,
+the Essenes who knew him would treat him well, and they were skilful
+healers; also, what better nurse than Nehushta could be found? Ah!
+poor Nou, how she would grieve over her. What sorrow must have taken
+hold of her when she heard the rock door shut and found that her
+nursling was cut off and captured by the Jews.
+
+Happy, indeed, was it for Miriam that she could not witness what had
+chanced at the further side of that block of stone; that she could not
+see Nehushta beating at it with her hands and striving to thrust her
+thin fingers to the latch which she had no instrument to lift, until
+the bones were stripped of skin and flesh. That she could not hear
+Marcus, come to himself again, but unable to rise from off his knees,
+cursing and raving with agony at her loss, and because she, the tender
+lady whom he loved, for his sake had fallen into the hands of the
+relentless Jews. Yes, that she could not hear him cursing and raving
+in his utter helplessness, till at length the brain gave in his
+shattered head, and he fell into a fevered madness, that for many
+weeks was unpierced by any light of reason or of memory. All this, at
+least, was spared to her.
+
+Well, the deed was done and she must pay the price, for without a
+doubt they would kill her, as they had a right to do, who had saved a
+Roman general from their clutches. Or if they did not, Caleb would,
+Caleb whose bitter jealousy, as her instinct told her, had turned his
+love to hate. Never would he let her live to fall, perchance, as his
+share of the Temple spoil, into the hands of the Roman rival who had
+escaped him.
+
+It was not too great a price. Because of the birth doom laid upon her,
+even if he sought it, and fortune brought them back together again,
+she could never be a wife to Marcus. And for the rest she was weary,
+sick with the sight and sound of slaughter and with the misery that in
+these latter days, as her Lord had prophesied, was come upon the city
+that rejected him and the people who had slain Him, their Messiah.
+Miriam wished to die, to pass to that home of perfect and eternal
+peace in which she believed; where, mayhap, it might be given to her
+in reward of her sufferings, to watch from afar over the soul of
+Marcus, and to make ready an abode for it to dwell in through all the
+ages of infinity. The thought pleased her, and lifting his ring, she
+pressed it to her lips which that very night had been pressed upon his
+lips, then drew it off and hid it in her hair. She wished to keep that
+ring until the end, if so she might. As for the pearls, she could not
+hide them, and though she loved them as his gift--well, they must go
+to the hand of the spoiler, and to the necks of other women, who would
+never know their tale.
+
+This done Miriam rose to her knees and began to pray with the vivid,
+simple faith that was given to the first children of the Church. She
+prayed for Marcus, that he might recover and not forget her, and that
+the light of truth might shine upon him; for Nehushta, that her sorrow
+might be soothed; for herself, that her end might be merciful and her
+awakening happy; for Caleb, that his heart might be turned; for the
+dead and dying, that their sins might be forgiven; for the little
+children, that the Lord of Pity would have pity on their sufferings;
+for the people of the Jews, that He would lift the rod of His wrath
+from off them; yes, and even for the Romans, though for these, poor
+maid, she knew not what petition to put up.
+
+Her prayer finished, once more Miriam strove to sleep and dozed a
+little, to be aroused by a curious sound of feeble sighing, which
+seemed to come from the further side of the cell. By now the dawn was
+streaming through the stone lattice work above the doorway, and in its
+faint light Miriam saw the outlines of a figure with snowy hair and
+beard, wrapped in a filthy robe that had once been white. At first she
+thought that this figure must be a corpse thrust here out of the way
+of the living, it was so stirless. But corpses do not sigh as this man
+seemed to do. Who could he be, she wondered? A prisoner like herself,
+left to die, as, perhaps, she would be left to die? The light grew a
+little. Surely there was something familiar about the shape of that
+white head. She crept nearer, thinking that she might be able to help
+this old man who was so sick and suffering. Now she could see his face
+and the hand that lay upon his breast. They were those of a living
+skeleton, for the bones stood out, and over them the yellow skin was
+drawn like shrivelled parchment; only the deep sunk eyes still shone
+round and bright. Oh! she knew the face. It was that of Theophilus the
+Essene, a past president of the order indeed, who had been her friend
+from earliest childhood and the master who taught her languages in
+those far-off happy years which she spent in the village by the Dead
+Sea. This Theophilus she had found dwelling with the Essenes in their
+cavern home, and none of them had welcomed her more warmly. Some ten
+days ago, against the advice of Ithiel and others, he had insisted on
+creeping out to take the air and gather news in the city. Then he was
+a stout and hale old man, although pale-faced from dwelling in the
+darkness. From that journey he had not returned. Some said that he had
+fled to the country, others that he had gone over to the Romans, and
+yet others that he had been slain by some of Simon's men. Now she
+found him thus!
+
+Miriam came and bent over him.
+
+"Master," she said, "what ails you? How came you here?"
+
+He turned his hollow, vacant eyes upon her face.
+
+"Who is it that speaks to me thus gently?" he asked in a feeble voice.
+
+"I, your ward, Miriam."
+
+"Miriam! Miriam! What does Miriam in this torture-den?"
+
+"Master, I am a prisoner. But speak of yourself."
+
+"There is little to say, Miriam. They caught me, those devils, and
+seeing that I was still well-fed and strong, although sunk in years,
+demanded to know whence I had my food in this city of starvation. To
+tell them would have been to give up our secret and to bring doom upon
+the brethren, and upon you, our guest and lady. I refused to answer,
+so, having tortured me without avail, they cast me in here to starve,
+thinking that hunger would make me speak. But I have not spoken. How
+could I, who have taken the oath of the Essenes, and been their ruler?
+Now at length I die."
+
+"Oh! say not so," said Miriam, wringing her hands.
+
+"I do say it and I am thankful. Have you any food?"
+
+"Yes, a piece of dried meat and barley bread, which chanced to be in
+my robe when I was captured. Take them and eat."
+
+"Nay, Miriam, that desire has gone from me, nor do I wish to live,
+whose days are done. But save the food, for doubtless they will starve
+you also. And, look, there is water in that jar, they gave it me to
+make me live the longer. Drink, drink while you can, who to-morrow may
+be thirsty."
+
+For a time there was silence, while the tears that gathered in
+Miriam's eyes fell upon the old man's face.
+
+"Weep not for me," he said presently, "who go to my rest. How came you
+here?"
+
+She told him as briefly as she might.
+
+"You are a brave woman," he said when she had finished, "and that
+Roman owes you much. Now I, Theophilus, who am about to die, call down
+the blessing of God upon you, and upon him also for your sake, for
+your sake. The shield of God be over you in the slaughter and the
+sorrow."
+
+Then he shut his eyes and either could not or would not speak again.
+
+Miriam drank of the pitcher of water, for her thirst was great.
+Crouched at the side of the old Essene, she watched him till at length
+the door opened, and two gaunt, savage-looking men entered, who went
+to where Theophilus lay and kicked him brutally.
+
+"What would you now?" he said, opening his eyes.
+
+"Wake up, old man," cried one of them. "See, here is flesh," and he
+thrust a lump of some filthy carrion to his lips. "Smell it, taste
+it," he went on, "ah! is it not good? Well, tell us where is that
+store of food which made you so fat who now are so thin, and you shall
+have it all, yes, all, all."
+
+Theophilus shook his head.
+
+"Bethink you," cried the man, "if you do not eat, by sunrise to-morrow
+you will be dead. Speak then and eat, obstinate dog, it is your last
+chance."
+
+"I eat not and I tell not," answered the aged martyr in a voice like a
+hollow groan. "By to-morrow's sunrise I shall be dead, and soon you
+and all this people will be dead, and God will have judged each of us
+according to his works. Repent you, for the hour is at hand."
+
+Then they cursed him and smote him because of his words of ill-omen,
+and so went away, taking no notice of Miriam in the corner. When they
+had gone she came forward and looked. His jaw had fallen. Theophilus
+the Essene was at peace.
+
+Another hour went by. Once more the door was opened and there appeared
+that captain who had ordered her to be killed. With him were two Jews.
+
+"Come, woman," he said, "to take your trial."
+
+"Who is to try me?" Miriam asked.
+
+"The Sanhedrim, or as much as is left of it," he answered. "Stir now,
+we have no time for talking."
+
+So Miriam rose and accompanied them across the corner of the vast
+court, in the centre of which the Temple rose in all its glittering
+majesty. As she walked she noticed that the pavement was dotted with
+corpses, and that from the cloisters without went up flames and smoke.
+They seemed to be fighting there, for the air was full of the sound of
+shouting, above which echoed the dull, continuous thud of battering
+rams striking against the massive walls.
+
+They took her into a great chamber supported by pillars of white
+marble, where many starving folk, some of them women who carried or
+led hollow-cheeked children, sat silent on the floor, or wandered to
+and fro, their eyes fixed upon the ground as though in aimless search
+for they knew not what. On a daïs at the end of the chamber twelve or
+fourteen men sat in carved chairs; other chairs stretched to the right
+and left of them, but these were empty. The men were clad in
+magnificent robes, which seemed to hang ill upon their gaunt forms,
+and, like those of the people in the hall, their eyes looked scared
+and their faces were white and shrunken. These were all who were left
+of the Sanhedrim of the Jews.
+
+As Miriam entered one of their number was delivering judgment upon a
+wretched starving man. Miriam looked at the judge. It was her
+grandfather, Benoni, but oh! how changed. He who had been tall and
+upright was now drawn almost double, his teeth showed yellow between
+his lips, his long white beard was ragged and had come out in patches,
+his hand shook, his gorgeous head-dress was awry. Nothing was the same
+about him except his eyes, which still shone bright, but with a
+fiercer fire than of old. They looked like the eyes of a famished
+wolf.
+
+"Man, have you aught to say?" he was asking of the prisoner.
+
+"Only this," the prisoner answered. "I had hidden some food, my own
+food, which I bought with all that remained of my fortune. Your hyæna-
+men caught my wife, and tormented her until she showed it them. They
+fell upon it, and, with their comrades, ate it nearly all. My wife
+died of starvation and her wounds, my children died of starvation, all
+except one, a child of six, whom I fed with what remained. Then she
+began to die also, and I bargained with the Roman, giving him jewels
+and promising to show him the weak place in the wall if he would
+convey the child to his camp and feed her. I showed him the place, and
+he fed her in my presence, and took her away, whither I know not. But,
+as you know, I was caught, and the wall was built up, so that no harm
+came of my treason. I would do it again to save the life of my child,
+twenty times over, if needful. You murdered my wife and my other
+children; murder me also if you will. I care nothing."
+
+"Wretch," said Benoni, "what are your miserable wife and children
+compared to the safety of this holy place, which we defend against the
+enemies of Jehovah? Lead him away, and let him be slain upon the wall,
+in the sight of his friends, the Romans."
+
+"I go," said the victim, rising and stretching out his hands to the
+guards, "but may you also all be slain in the sight of the Romans, you
+mad murderers, who, in your lust for power, have brought doom and
+agony upon the people of the Jews."
+
+Then they dragged him out, and a voice called--"Bring in the next
+traitor."
+
+Now Miriam was brought forward. Benoni looked up and knew her.
+
+"Miriam?" he gasped, rising, to fall back again in his seat, "Miriam,
+you here?"
+
+"It seems so, grandfather," she answered quietly.
+
+"There is some mistake," said Benoni. "This girl can have harmed none.
+Let her be dismissed."
+
+The other judges looked up.
+
+"Best hear the charge against her first?" said one suspiciously, while
+another added, "Is not this the woman who dwelt with you at Tyre, and
+who is said to be a Christian?"
+
+"We do not sit to try questions of faith, at least not now," answered
+Benoni evasively.
+
+"Woman, is it true that you are a Christian?" queried one of the
+judges.
+
+"Sir, I am," replied Miriam, and at her words the faces of the
+Sanhedrim grew hard as stones, while someone watching in the crowd
+hurled a fragment of marble at her.
+
+"Let it be for this time," said the judge, "as the Rabbi Benoni says,
+we are trying questions of treason, not of faith. Who accuses this
+woman, and of what?"
+
+A man stepped forward, that captain who had wished to put Miriam to
+death, and she saw that behind him were Caleb, who looked ill at ease,
+and the Jew who had guarded Marcus.
+
+"I accuse her," he said, "of having released the Roman Prefect,
+Marcus, whom Caleb here wounded and took prisoner in the fighting
+yesterday, and brought into the Old Tower, where he was laid till we
+knew whether he would live or die."
+
+"The Roman Prefect, Marcus?" said one. "Why, he is the friend of
+Titus, and would have been worth more to us than a hundred common men.
+Also, throughout this war, none has done us greater mischief. Woman,
+if, indeed, you let him go, no death can repay your wickedness. Did
+you let him go?"
+
+"That is for you to discover," answered Miriam, for now that Marcus
+was safe she would tell no more lies.
+
+"This renegade is insolent, like all her accursed sect," said the
+judge, spitting on the ground. "Captain, tell your story, and be
+brief."
+
+He obeyed. After him that soldier was examined from whose hand Miriam
+had struck the lantern. Then Caleb was called and asked what he knew
+of the matter.
+
+"Nothing," he answered, "except that I took the Roman and saw him laid
+in the tower, for he was senseless. When I returned the Roman had
+gone, and this lady Miriam was there, who said that he had escaped by
+the doorway. I did not see them together, and know no more."
+
+"That is a lie," said one of the judges roughly. "You told the captain
+that Marcus had been her lover. Why did you say this?"
+
+"Because years ago by Jordan she, who is a sculptor, graved a likeness
+of him in stone," answered Caleb.
+
+"Are artists always the lovers of those whom they picture, Caleb?"
+asked Benoni, speaking for the first time.
+
+Caleb made no answer, but one of the Sanhedrim, a sharp-faced man,
+named Simeon, the friend of Simon, the son of Gioras, the Zealot, who
+sat next to him, cried, "Cease this foolishness; the daughter of Satan
+is beautiful; doubtless Caleb desires her for himself; but what has
+that to do with us?" though he added vindictively, "it should be
+remembered against him that he is striving to hide the truth."
+
+"There is no evidence against this woman, let her be set free,"
+exclaimed Benoni.
+
+"So we might expect her grandfather to think," said Simeon, with
+sarcasm. "Little wonder that we are smitten with the Sword of God when
+Rabbis shelter Christians because they chance to be of their house,
+and when warriors bear false witness concerning them because they
+chance to be fair. For my part I say that she is guilty, and has
+hidden the man away in some secret place. Otherwise why did she dash
+the light from the soldier's hand?"
+
+"Mayhap to hide herself lest she should be attacked," answered
+another, "though how she came in the tower, I cannot guess."
+
+"I lived there," said Miriam. "It was bricked up until yesterday and
+safe from robbers."
+
+"So!" commented that judge, "you lived alone in a deserted tower like
+a bat or an owl, and without food or water. Then these must have been
+brought to you from without the walls, perhaps by some secret passage
+that was known to none, down which you loosed the Prefect, but had no
+time to follow him. Woman, you are a Roman spy, as a Christian well
+might be. I say that she is worthy of death."
+
+Then Benoni rose and rent his robes.
+
+"Does not enough blood run through these holy courts?" he asked, "that
+you must seek that of the innocent also? What is your oath? To do
+justice and to convict only upon clear, unshaken testimony. Where is
+this testimony? What is there to show that the girl Miriam had any
+dealings with this Marcus, whom she had not seen for years? In the
+Holy Name I protest against this iniquity."
+
+"It is natural that you should protest," said one of his brethren.
+
+Then they fell into discussion, for the question perplexed them
+sorely, who, although they were savage, still wished to be honest.
+
+Suddenly Simeon looked up, for a thought struck him.
+
+"Search her," he said, "she is in good case, she may have food, or the
+secret of food, about her, or," he added--"other things."
+
+Now two hungry-looking officers of the court seized Miriam and rent
+her robe open at the breast with their rough hands, since they would
+not be at the pains of loosening it.
+
+"See," cried one of them, "here are pearls, fit wear for so fine a
+lady. Shall we take them?"
+
+"Fool, let the trinkets be," answered Simeon angrily. "Are we common
+thieves?"
+
+"Here is something else," said the officer, drawing the roll of
+Marcus's cherished letter from her breast.
+
+"Not that, not that," the poor girl gasped.
+
+"Give it here," said Simeon, stretching out his lean hand.
+
+Then he undid the silk case and, opening the letter, read its first
+lines aloud. "'To the lady Miriam, from Marcus the Roman, by the hand
+of the Captain Gallus.' What do you say to that, Benoni and brethren?
+Why, there are pages of it, but here is the end: 'Farewell, your ever
+faithful friend and lover, Marcus.' So, let those read it who have the
+time; for my part I am satisfied. This woman is a traitress; I give my
+vote for death."
+
+"It was written from Rome two years ago," pleaded Miriam; but no one
+seemed to heed her, for all were talking at once.
+
+"I demand that the whole letter be read," shouted Benoni.
+
+"We have no time, we have no time," answered Simeon. "Other prisoners
+await their trial, the Romans are battering our gates. Can we waste
+more precious minutes over this Nazarene spy? Away with her."
+
+"Away with her," said Simon the son of Gioras, and the others nodded
+their heads in assent.
+
+Then they gathered together discussing the manner of her end, while
+Benoni stormed at them in vain. Not quite in vain, however, for they
+yielded something to his pleading.
+
+"So be it," said their spokesman, Simon the Zealot. "This is our
+sentence on the traitress--that she suffer the common fate of traitors
+and be taken to the upper gate, called the Gate Nicanor, that divides
+the Court of Israel from the Court of Women, and bound with the chain
+to the central column that is over the gate, where she may be seen
+both of her friends the Romans and of the people of Israel whom she
+has striven to betray, there to perish of hunger and of thirst, or in
+such fashion as God may appoint, for so shall we be clean of a woman's
+blood. Yet, because of the prayer of Benoni, our brother, of whose
+race she is, we decree that this sentence shall not be carried out
+before the set of sun, and that if in the meanwhile the traitress
+elects to give information that shall lead to the recapture of the
+Roman prefect, Marcus, she shall be set at liberty without the gates
+of the Temple. The case is finished. Guards, take her to the prison
+whence she came."
+
+So they seized Miriam and led her thence through the crowd of
+onlookers, who paused from their wanderings and weary searching of the
+ground to spit at or curse her, and thrust her back into her cell and
+to the company of the cold corpse of Theophilus the Essene.
+
+Here Miriam sat down, and partly to pass the time, partly because she
+needed it, ate the bread and dried flesh which she had left hidden in
+the cell. After this sleep came to her, who was tired out and the
+worst being at hand, had nothing more to fear. For four or five hours
+she rested sweetly, dreaming that she was a child again, gathering
+flowers on the banks of Jordan in the spring season, till, at length,
+a sound caused her to awake. She looked up to see Benoni standing
+before her.
+
+"What is it, grandfather?" she asked.
+
+"Oh! my daughter," groaned the wretched old man, "I am come here at
+some risk, for because of you and for other reasons they suspect me,
+those wolf-hearted men, to bid you farewell and to ask your pardon."
+
+"Why should you ask my pardon, grandfather? Seeing things as they see
+them, the sentence is just enough. I am a Christian, and--if you would
+know it--I did, as I hope, save the life of Marcus, for which deed my
+own is forfeit."
+
+"How?" he asked.
+
+"That, grandfather, I will not tell you."
+
+"Tell me, and save yourself. There is little chance that they will
+take him, since the Jews have been driven from the Old Tower."
+
+"The Jews might re-capture the tower, and I will not tell you. Also,
+the lives of others are at stake, of my friends who have sheltered me,
+and who, as I trust, will now shelter him."
+
+"Then you must die, and by this death of shame, for I am powerless to
+save you. Yes, you must die tied to a pinnacle of the gateway, a
+mockery to friend and foe. Why, if it had not been that I still have
+some authority among them, and that you are of my blood, girl though
+you be, they would have crucified you upon the wall, serving you as
+the Romans serve our people."
+
+"If it pleases God that I should die, I shall die. What is one life
+among so many tens of thousands? Let us talk of other things while we
+have time."
+
+"What is there to talk of, Miriam, save misery, misery, misery?" and
+again he groaned. "You were right, and I have been wrong. That Messiah
+of yours whom I rejected, yes, and still reject, had at least the gift
+of prophecy, for the words that you read me yonder in Tyre will be
+fulfilled upon this people and city, aye, to the last letter. The
+Romans hold even the outer courts of the Temple; there is no food
+left. In the upper town the inhabitants devour each other and die, and
+die till none can bury the dead. In a day or two, or ten--what does it
+matter?--we who are left must perish also by hunger and the sword. The
+nation of the Jews is trodden out, the smoke of their sacrifices goes
+up no more, and the Holy House that they have builded will be pulled
+stone from stone, or serve as a temple for the worship of heathen
+gods."
+
+"Will Titus show no mercy? Can you not surrender?" asked Miriam.
+
+"Surrender? To be sold as slaves or dragged a spectacle at the wheels
+of Cæsar's triumphal car, through the shouting streets of Rome? No,
+girl, best to fight it out. We will seek mercy of Jehovah and not of
+Titus. Oh! I would that it were done with, for my heart is broken, and
+this judgment is fallen on me--that I, who, of my own will, brought my
+daughter to her death, must bring her daughter to death against my
+will. If I had hearkened to you, you would have been in Pella, or in
+Egypt. I lost you, and, thinking you dead, what I have suffered no man
+can know. Now I find you, and because of the office that was thrust
+upon me, I, even I, from whom your life has sprung, must bring you to
+your doom."
+
+"Grandfather," Miriam broke in, wringing her hands, for the grief of
+this old man was awful to witness, "cease, I beseech you, cease.
+Perhaps, after all, I shall not die."
+
+He looked up eagerly. "Have you hope of escape?" he asked. "Perchance
+Caleb----"
+
+"Nay, I know naught of Caleb, except that there is still good in his
+heart, since at the last he tried to save me--for which I thank him.
+Still, I had sooner perish here alone, who do not fear death in my
+spirit, whatever my flesh may fear, than escape hence in his company."
+
+"What then, Miriam? Why should you think----?" and he paused.
+
+"I do not think, I only trust in God and--hope. One of our faith, now
+long departed, who foretold that I should be born, foretold also that
+I should live out my life. It may be so--for that woman was holy, and
+a prophetess."
+
+As she spoke there came a rolling sound like that of distant thunder,
+and a voice without called:
+
+"Rabbi Benoni, the wall is down. Tarry not, Rabbi Benoni, for they
+seek you."
+
+"Alas! I must begone," he said, "for some new horror is fallen upon
+us, and they summon me to the council. Farewell, most beloved Miriam,
+may my God and your God protect you, for I cannot. Farewell, and if,
+by any chance, you live, forgive me, and try to forget the evil that,
+in my blindness and my pride, I have brought upon yours and you, but
+oh! most of all upon myself."
+
+Then he embraced her passionately and was gone, leaving Miriam
+weeping.
+
+
+
+                             CHAPTER XVII
+
+                         THE GATE OF NICANOR
+
+Another two hours went by, and the lengthening shadows cast through
+the stonework of the lattice told Miriam that the day was drawing to
+its end. Suddenly the bolts were shot and the door opened.
+
+"The time is at hand," she said to herself, and at the thought her
+heart beat fast and her knees trembled, while a mist came before her
+eyes, so that she could not see. When it passed she looked up, and
+there before her, very handsome and stately, though worn with war and
+hunger, stood Caleb, sword in hand and clad in a breast plate dinted
+with many blows. At the sight, Miriam's courage came back to her; at
+least before him she would show no fear.
+
+"Are you sent to carry out my sentence?" she asked.
+
+He bowed his head. "Yes, a while hence, when the sun sinks," he
+answered bitterly. "That judge, Simeon, who ordered you to be
+searched, is a man with a savage heart. He thought that I tried to
+save you from the wrath of the Sanhedrim; he thought that I----"
+
+"Let be what he thought," interrupted Miriam, "and, friend Caleb, do
+your office. When we were children together often you tied my hands
+and feet with flowers, do you remember? Well, tie them now with cords,
+and make an end."
+
+"You are cruel," he said, wincing.
+
+"Indeed! some might have thought that you are cruel. If, for instance,
+they had heard your words in that tower last night when you gave up my
+name to the Jews and linked it with another's."
+
+"Oh! Miriam," he broke in in a pleading voice, "if I did this--and in
+truth I scarcely know what I did--it was because love and jealousy
+maddened me."
+
+"Love? The love of the lion for the lamb! Jealousy? Why were you
+jealous? Because, having striven to murder Marcus--oh! I saw the fight
+and it was little better, for you smote him unawares, being fully
+prepared when he was not--you feared lest I might have saved him from
+your fangs. Well, thanks be to God! I did save him, as I hope. And
+now, officer of the most merciful and learned Sanhedrim, do your
+duty."
+
+"At least, Miriam," Caleb went on, humbly, for her bitter words,
+unjust as they were in part, seemed to crush him, "at least, I strove
+my best for you to-day--after I found time to think."
+
+"Yes," she answered, "to think that other lions would get the lamb
+which you chance to desire for yourself."
+
+"More," he continued, taking no note. "I have made a plan."
+
+"A plan to do what?"
+
+"To escape. If I give the signal on your way to the gate where I must
+lead you, you will be rescued by certain friends of mine who will hide
+you in a place of safety, while I, the officer, shall seem to be cut
+down. Afterwards I can join you and under cover of the night, by a way
+of which I know, we will fly together."
+
+"Fly? Where to?"
+
+"To the Romans, who will spare you because of what you did yesterday--
+and me also."
+
+"Because of what /you/ did yesterday?"
+
+"No--because you will say that I am your husband. It will not be true,
+but what of that?"
+
+"What of it, indeed?" asked Miriam, "since it can always become true.
+But how is it that you, being one of the first of the Jewish warriors,
+are prepared to fly and ask the mercy of your foes? Is it because----"
+
+"Spare to insult me, Miriam. You know well why it is. You know well
+that I am no traitor, and that I do not fly for fear."
+
+"Yes," she answered, in a changed tone, for his manly words touched
+her, "I know that."
+
+"It is for you that I fly, for your sake I will eat this dirt and
+crown myself with shame. I fly that for the second time I may save
+you."
+
+"And in return you demand--what?"
+
+"Yourself."
+
+"That I will not give, Caleb. I reject your offer."
+
+"I feared it," he answered huskily, "who am accustomed to such
+denials. Then I demand this, for know that if once you pass your word
+I may trust it: that you will not marry the Roman Marcus."
+
+"I cannot marry the Roman Marcus any more than I can marry you,
+because neither of you are Christians, and as you know well it is laid
+upon me as a birth duty that I may take no man to husband who is not a
+Christian."
+
+"For your sake, Miriam," he answered slowly, "I am prepared to be
+baptised into your faith. Let this show you how much I love you."
+
+"It does not show that you love the faith, Caleb, nor if you did love
+it could I love you. Jew or Christian, I cannot be your wife."
+
+He turned his face to the wall and for a while was silent. Then he
+spoke again.
+
+"Miriam, so be it. I will still save you. Go, and marry Marcus, if you
+can, only, if I live, I will kill him if I can, but that you need
+scarcely fear, for I do not think that I shall live."
+
+She shook her head. "I will not go, who am weary of flights and
+hidings. Let God deal with me and Marcus and you as He pleases. Yet I
+thank you, and am sorry for the unkind words I spoke. Oh! Caleb,
+cannot you put me out of your mind? Are there not many fairer women
+who would be glad to love you? Why do you waste your life upon me?
+Take your path and suffer me to take mine. Yet all this talk is
+foolishness, for both are likely to be short."
+
+"Yours, and that of Marcus the Roman, and my own are all one path,
+Miriam, and I seek no other. As a lad, I swore that I would never take
+you, except by your own wish, and to that oath I hold. Also, I swore
+that if I could I would kill my rival, and to that oath I hold. If he
+kills me, you may wed him. If I kill him, you need not wed me unless
+you so desire. But this fight is to the death, yes, whether you live
+or die, it is still to the death as between me and him. Do you
+understand?"
+
+"Your words are very plain, Caleb, but this is a strange hour to
+choose to speak them, seeing that, for aught I know, Marcus is already
+dead, and that within some short time I shall be dead, and that death
+threatens you and all within this Temple."
+
+"Yet we live, Miriam, and I believe that for none of the three of us
+is the end at hand. Well, you will not fly, either with me or without
+me?"
+
+"No, I will not fly."
+
+"Then the time is here, and, having no choice, I must do my duty,
+leaving the rest to fate. If, perchance, I can rescue you afterwards,
+I will, but do not hope for such a thing."
+
+"Caleb, I neither hope nor fear. Henceforth I struggle no more. I am
+in other hands than yours, or those of the Jews, and as They fashion
+the clay so shall it be shaped. Now, will you bind me?"
+
+"I have no such command. Come forth if it pleases you, the officers
+wait without. Had you wished to be rescued, I should have taken the
+path on which my friends await us. Now we must go another."
+
+"So be it," said Miriam, "but first give me that jar of water, for my
+throat is parched."
+
+He lifted it to her lips and she drank deeply. Then they went. Outside
+the cloister four men were waiting, two of them those doorkeepers who
+had searched her in the morning, the others soldiers.
+
+"You have been a long while with the pretty maid, master," said one of
+them to Caleb. "Have you been receiving confession of her sins?"
+
+"I have been trying to receive confession of the hiding-place of the
+Roman, but the witch is obstinate," he answered, glaring angrily at
+Miriam.
+
+"She will soon change her tune on the gateway, master, where the
+nights are cold and the day is hot for those who have neither cloaks
+for their backs nor water for their stomachs. Come on, Blue Eyes, but
+first give me that necklet of pearls, which may serve to buy a bit of
+bread or a drink of wine," and he thrust his filthy hand into her
+breast.
+
+Next instant a sword flashed in the red light of the evening to fall
+full on the ruffian's skull, and down he went dead or dying.
+
+"Brute," said Caleb with an angry snarl, "go to seek bread and wine in
+Gehenna. The maid is doomed to death, not to be plundered by such as
+you. Come forward."
+
+The companions of the fallen man stared at him. Then one laughed, for
+death was too common a sight to excite pity or surprise, and said:
+
+"He was ever a greedy fellow. Let us hope that he has gone where there
+is more to eat."
+
+Then, preceded by Caleb, they marched through the long cloisters,
+passed an inner door, turned down more cloisters on the right, and,
+following the base of the great wall, came to its beautiful centre
+gate, Nicanor, that was adorned with gold and silver, and stood
+between the Court of Women and the Court of Israel. Over this gateway
+was a square building, fifty feet or more in height, containing store
+chambers and places where the priests kept their instruments of music.
+On its roof, which was flat, were three columns of marble, terminated
+by gilded spikes. By the gate one of the Sanhedrim was waiting for
+them, that same relentless judge, Simeon, who had ordered Miriam to be
+searched.
+
+"Has the woman confessed where she hid the Roman?" he asked of Caleb.
+
+"No," he answered, "she says that she knows nothing of any Roman."
+
+"Is it so, woman?"
+
+"It is so, Rabbi."
+
+"Bring her up," he went on sternly, and they passed through some stone
+chambers to a place where there was a staircase with a door of cedar-
+wood. The judge unlocked it, locking it again behind them, and they
+climbed the stairs till they came to another little door of stone,
+which, being opened, Miriam found herself on the roof of the gateway.
+They led her to the centre pillar, to which was fastened an iron chain
+about ten feet in length. Here Simeon commanded that her hands should
+be bound behind her, which was done. Then he brought out of his robe a
+scroll written in large letters, and tied it on to her breast. This
+was the writing on the scroll:
+
+ "Miriam, Nazarene and Traitress, is doomed here to die as God shall
+  appoint, before the face of her friends, the Romans."
+
+Then followed several signatures of members of the Sanhedrim,
+including that of her grandfather, Benoni, who had thus been forced to
+show the triumph of patriotism over kinship.
+
+This done the end of the chain was made fast round her middle and
+riveted with a hammer in such fashion that she could not possibly
+escape its grip. Then all being finished the men prepared to leave.
+First, however, Simeon addressed her:
+
+"Stay here, accursed traitress, till your bones fall piecemeal from
+that chain," he said, "stay, through storm and shine, through light
+and darkness, while Roman and Jew alike make merry of your sufferings,
+which, if my voice had been listened to, would have been shorter, but
+more cruel. Daughter of Satan, go back to Satan and let the Son of the
+carpenter save you if he can."
+
+"Spare to revile the maid," broke in Caleb furiously, "for curses are
+spears that fall on the heads of those that throw them."
+
+"Had I my will," answered the Rabbi, "a spear should fall upon your
+head, insolent, who dare to rebuke your elders. Begone before me, and
+be sure of this, that if you strive to return here it shall be for the
+last time. More is known about you, Caleb, then you think, and perhaps
+you also would make friends among the Romans."
+
+Caleb made no answer, for he knew the venom and power of this Zealot
+Simeon, who was the chosen friend and instrument of the savage John of
+Gischala. Only he looked at Miriam with sad eyes, and, muttering "You
+would have it so, I can do no more. Farewell," left her to her fate.
+
+So there in the red light of the sunset, with her hands bound, a
+placard setting out her shame upon her breast, and chained like a wild
+beast to the column of marble, Miriam was left alone. Walking as near
+to the little battlement as the length of her chain would allow, she
+looked down into the Court of Israel, where many of the Zealots had
+gathered to catch sight of her. So soon as they saw her they yelled
+and hooted and cast a shower of stones, one of which struck her on the
+shoulder. With a little cry of pain she ran back as far as she could
+reach on the further side of the pillar. Hence she could see the great
+Court of Women, whence the Gate Nicanor was approached by fifteen
+steps forming the half of a circle and fashioned of white marble. This
+court now was nothing but a camp, for the outer Court of the Gentiles
+having been taken by the Romans, their battering rams were working at
+its walls.
+
+Then the night fell, but brought no peace with it, for the rams smote
+continually, and since they were not strong enough to break through
+the huge stones of the mighty wall, the Romans renewed their attempt
+to take them by storm in the hours of darkness. But, indeed, it was no
+darkness, for the Jews lit fires upon the top of the wall, and by
+their light drove off the attacking Romans. Again and again, from her
+lofty perch, Miriam could see the scaling ladders appear above the
+crest of the wall. Then up them would come long lines of men, each
+holding a shield above his head. As the foremost of these scrambled on
+to the wall, the waiting Jews rushed at them and cut them down with
+savage shouts, while other Jews seizing the rungs of the ladder,
+thrust it from the coping to fall with its living load back into the
+ditch beneath. Once there were great cries of joy, for two standard-
+bearers had come up the ladders carrying their ensigns with them. The
+men were overpowered and the ensigns captured to be waved derisively
+at the Romans beneath, who answered the insult with sullen roars of
+rage.
+
+So things went on till at length the legionaries, wearing of this
+desperate fighting, took another counsel. Hitherto Titus had desired
+to preserve all the Temple, even to the outer courts and cloisters,
+but now he commanded that the gates, built of great beams of cedar and
+overlaid with silver plates, should be fired. Through a storm of
+spears and arrows soldiers rushed up to them and thrust lighted brands
+into every joint and hinge. They caught, and presently the silver
+plates ran down their blazing surface in molten streams of metal. Nor
+was this all, for from the gates the fire spread to the cloisters on
+either side, nor did the outworn Jews attempt to stay its ravages.
+They drew back sullenly, and seated in groups upon the paving of the
+Court of Women, watching the circle of devouring flame creep slowly
+on. At length the sun rose. Now the Romans were labouring to
+extinguish the fire at the gateway, and to make a road over the ruins
+by which they might advance. When it was done at last, with shouts of
+triumph the legionaries, commanded by Titus himself and accompanied by
+a body of horsemen, advanced into the Court of Women. Back before them
+fled the Jews, pouring up the steps of the Gate Nicanor, on the roof
+of which Miriam was chained to her pinnacle. But of her they took no
+note, none had time to think, or even to look at a single girl bound
+there on high in punishment for some offence, of which the most of
+them knew nothing. Only they manned the walls to right and left, and
+held the gateway, but to the roof where Miriam was they did not climb,
+because its parapet was too low to shelter them from the arrows of
+their assailants.
+
+The Romans saw her, however, for she perceived that some of his
+officers were pointing her out to a man on horseback, clad in splendid
+armour, over which fell a purple cloak, whom she took to be Titus
+himself. Also one of the soldiers shot an arrow at her which struck
+upon the spiked column above her head and, rebounding, fell at her
+feet. Titus noted this, for she saw the man brought before him, and by
+his gestures gathered that the general was speaking to him angrily.
+After this no more arrows were shot at her, and she understood that
+their curiosity being stirred by the sight of a woman chained upon a
+gateway, they did not wish to do her mischief.
+
+Now the August sun shone out from a cloudless sky till the hot air
+danced above the roofs of the Temple and the pavings of the courts,
+and the thousands shut within their walls were glad to crowd into the
+shadow to shelter from its fiery beams. But Miriam could not escape
+them thus. In the morning and again in the afternoon she was able
+indeed, by creeping round it, to take refuge in the narrow line of
+shade thrown by the marble column to which she was made fast. At mid-
+day, however, it flung no shadow, so for all those dreadful hours she
+must pant in the burning heat without a drop of water to allay her
+thirst. Still she bore it till at length came evening and its cool.
+
+That day the Romans made no attack, nor did the Jews attempt a sally.
+Only some of the lighter of the engines were brought into the Court of
+Women, whence they hurled their great stones and heavy darts into the
+Court of Israel beyond. Miriam watched these missiles as they rushed
+by her, once or twice so close that the wind they made stirred her
+hair. The sight fascinated her and took her mind from her own
+sufferings. She could see the soldiers working at the levers and
+pulleys till the strings of the catapult or the boards of the balista
+were drawn to their places. Then the darts or the stones were set in
+the groove prepared to receive it, a cord was pulled and the missile
+sped upon its way, making an angry humming noise as it clove the air.
+At first it looked small; then approaching it grew large, to become
+small again to her following sight as its journey was accomplished.
+Sometimes, the stones, which did more damage than the darts, fell upon
+the paving and bounded along it, marking their course by fragments of
+shattered marble and a cloud of dust. At others, directed by an evil
+fate, they crashed into groups of Jews, destroying all they touched.
+Wandering to and fro among these people was that crazed man Jesus, the
+son of Annas, who had met them with his wild prophetic cry as they
+entered into Jerusalem, and whose ill-omened voice Miriam had heard
+again before Marcus was taken at the fight in the Old Tower. To and
+fro he went, none hindering him, though many thrust their fingers in
+their ears and looked aside as he passed, wailing forth: "Woe, woe to
+Jerusalem! Woe to the city and the Temple!" Of a sudden, as Miriam
+watched, he was still for a moment, then throwing up his arms, cried
+in a piercing voice, "Woe, woe to myself!" Before the echo of his
+words had died against the Temple walls, a great stone cast from the
+Court of Women rushed upon him through the air and felled him to the
+earth. On it went with vast bounds, but Jesus, the son of Annas, lay
+still. Now, in the hour of the accomplishment of his prophecy, his
+pilgrimage was ended.
+
+All the day the cloisters that surrounded the Court of Women burned
+fiercely, but the Jews, whose heart was out of them, did not sally
+forth, and the Romans made no attack upon the inner Court of Israel.
+At length the last rays of the setting sun struck upon the slopes of
+the Mount of Olives, the white tents of the Roman camps, and the
+hundreds of crosses, each bearing its ghastly burden, that filled the
+Valley of Jehoshaphat and climbed up the mountain sides wherever space
+could be found for them to stand. Then over the tortured, famished
+city down fell the welcome night. To none was it more welcome than to
+Miriam, for with it came a copious dew which seemed to condense upon
+the gilded spike of her marble pillar, whence it trickled so
+continually, that by licking a little channel in the marble, she was
+enabled, before it ceased, to allay the worst pangs of her thirst.
+This dew gathered upon her hair, bared neck and garments, so that
+through them also she seemed to take in moisture and renew her life.
+After this she slept a while, expecting always to be awakened by some
+fresh conflict. But on that night none took place, the fight was for
+the morrow. Meanwhile there was peace.
+
+Miriam dreamed in her uneasy sleep, and in this dream many visions
+came to her. She saw this sacred hill of Moriah, whereon the Temple
+stood, as it had been in the beginning, a rugged spot clothed with
+ungrafted carob trees and olives, and inhabited, not of men, but by
+wild boars and the hyænas that preyed upon their young. Almost in its
+centre lay a huge black stone. To this stone came a man clad in the
+garb of the Arabs of the desert, and with him a little lad whom he
+bound upon the stone as though to offer him in sacrifice. Then, as he
+was about to plunge a knife into his heart, a glory shone round the
+place, and a voice cried to him to hold his hand. That was a vision of
+the offering of Isaac. It passed, and there came another vision.
+
+Again she saw the sacred height of Moriah, and lo! a Temple stood upon
+it, a splendid building, but not that which she knew, and in front of
+this Temple the same black rock. On the rock, where once the lad had
+been bound, was an altar, and before the altar a glorious man clad in
+priestly robes, who offered sacrifice of lambs and oxen and in a
+sonorous voice gave praise to Jehovah in the presence of a countless
+host of people. This she knew was the vision of Solomon the King.
+
+It passed, and lo! by this same black rock stood another man, pale and
+eager-faced, with piercing eyes, who reproached the worshippers in the
+Temple because of the wickedness of their hearts, and drove them from
+before him with a scourge of cords. This she knew was a vision of
+Jesus, the Son of Mary, that Messiah Whom she worshipped, for as He
+drove out the people He prophesied the desolation that should fall
+upon them, and as they fled they mocked Him.
+
+The picture passed, and again she saw the black rock, but now it lay
+beneath a gilded dome and light fell upon it through painted windows.
+About it moved many priests whose worship was strange to her, and so
+they seemed to move for ages. At length the doors of that dome were
+burst open, and upon the priests rushed fair-faced, stately-looking
+men, clad in white mail and bearing upon their shields and
+breastplates the symbol of the Cross. They slaughtered the votaries of
+the strange worship, and once more the rock was red with blood. Now
+they were gone in turn and other priests moved beneath the dome, but
+the Cross had vanished thence, and its pinnacles were crowned with
+crescents.
+
+That vision passed, and there came another of dim, undistinguishable
+hordes that tore down the crescents and slaughtered the ministers of
+the strange faith, and gave the domed temple to the flames.
+
+That vision passed, and once more the summit of Mount Moriah was as it
+had been in the beginning: the wild olive and the wild fig flourished
+among its desolate terraces, the wild boar roamed beneath their shade,
+and there were none to hunt him. Only the sunlight and the moonlight
+still beat upon the ancient Rock of Sacrifice.
+
+That vision passed, and lo! around the rock, filling the Valley of
+Jehoshaphat and the valleys beyond, and the Mount of Olives and the
+mountains above, yes, and the empty air between earth and sky, further
+than the eye could reach, stood, rank upon rank, all the countless
+million millions of mankind, all the millions that had been and were
+yet to be, gazing, every one of them, anxiously and in utter silence
+upon the scarred and naked Rock of Sacrifice. Now upon the rock there
+grew a glory so bright that at the sight of it all the million of
+millions abased their eyes. And from the glory pealed forth a voice of
+a trumpet, that seemed to say:
+
+"This is the end and the beginning, all things are accomplished in
+their order, now is the day of Decision."
+
+Then, in her dream, the sun turned red as blood and the stars seemed
+to fall and winds shook the world, and darkness covered it, and in the
+winds and the darkness were voices, and standing upon the rock, its
+arms stretched east and west, a cross of fire, and filling the heavens
+above the cross, company upon company of angels. This last vision of
+judgment passed also and Miriam awoke again from her haunted, horror-
+begotten sleep, to see the watch-fires of the Romans burning in the
+Court of Women before her, and from the Court of Israel behind her,
+where they were herded like cattle in the slaughterer's yard, to hear
+the groans of the starving Jews who to-morrow were destined to the
+sword.
+
+
+
+                            CHAPTER XVIII
+
+                     THE DEATH-STRUGGLE OF ISRAEL
+
+Now the light began to grow, but that morning no sun rose upon the
+sight of the thousands who waited for its coming. The whole heaven was
+dark with a gray mist that seemed to drift up in billows from the sea,
+bringing with it a salt dampness. For this mist Miriam was thankful,
+since had the sun shone hotly she knew not how she would have lived
+through another day. Already she grew very weak, who had suffered so
+much and eaten so little, and whose only drink had been the dew, but
+she felt that while the mist hid the sun her life would bide with her.
+
+To others also this mist was welcome. Under cover of it Caleb
+approached the gateway, and although he could not ascend it, as the
+doors were locked and guarded, he cast on to its roof so cleverly,
+that it fell almost at Miriam's feet, a linen bag in which was a
+leathern bottle containing wine and water, and with it a mouldy crust
+of bread, doubtless all that he could find, or buy, or steal. Kneeling
+down, Miriam loosed the string of the bag with her teeth and devoured
+the crust of bread, again returning thanks that Caleb had been moved
+to this thought. But from the bottle she could not drink, for her
+hands being bound behind her, she was able neither to lift it nor to
+untie the thong that made fast its neck. Therefore, as,
+notwithstanding the dew which she had lapped, she needed drink sorely
+and longed also for the use of her hands to protect herself from the
+tormenting attacks of stinging gnats and carrion flies, she set
+herself to try to free them.
+
+Now the gilt spike that crowned her pillar was made fast with angle-
+irons let into the marble and the edge of one of these irons projected
+somewhat and was rough. Looking at it the thought came into Miriam's
+mind that it might serve to rub through the cord with which her hands
+were bound. So standing with her back to the pillar she began her
+task, to find that it must be done little by little, since the awkward
+movement wearied her, moreover, her swollen arms chafing against the
+marble of the column became intolerably sore. Yet, although the pain
+made her weep, from time to time she persevered. But night fell before
+the frayed cord parted.
+
+In the mist also the Romans came near to the gate, notwithstanding the
+risk, for they were very curious about her, and called to her asking
+why she was bound there. She replied in the Latin language, which was
+understood by very few of the Jews, that it was because she had
+rescued a Roman from death. Before they could speak again those who
+questioned her were driven back by a shower of arrows discharged from
+the wall, but in the distance she thought that she saw one of them
+make report to an officer, who on receipt of it seemed to give some
+orders.
+
+Meanwhile, also under cover of the mist, the Jews were preparing
+themselves for battle. To the number of over four thousand men they
+gathered silently in the Court of Israel. Then of a sudden the gates
+were thrown open, and among them that of Nicanor. The trumpets blew a
+signal and out they poured into the Court of Women, driving in the
+Roman guards and outposts as sticks and straws are driven by a sudden
+flood. But the legionaries beyond were warned, and locking their
+shields together stood firm, so that the Jews fell back from their
+iron line as such a flood falls from an opposing rock. Yet they would
+not retreat, but fought furiously, killing many of the Romans, until
+at length Titus charged on them at the head of a squadron of horse and
+drove them back headlong through the gates. Then the Romans came on
+and put those whom they had captured to the sword, but as yet they did
+not attempt the storming of the gates. Only officers advanced as near
+to the wall as they dared and called to the Jews to surrender, saying
+that Titus desired to preserve their Temple and to spare their lives.
+But the Jews answered them with insults, taunts, and mockery, and
+Miriam, listening, wondered what spirit had entered into these people
+and made them mad, so that they chose death and destruction rather
+than peace and mercy. Then she remembered her strange visions of the
+night, and in them seemed to find an answer.
+
+Having repulsed this desperate sally the Roman officers set thousands
+of men to work to attempt to extinguish the flaming cloisters, since,
+notwithstanding the answer of the Jews, Titus still desired to save
+the Temple. As for its defenders, beyond guarding the walls of the
+Court of Israel, they did no more. Gathering in such places as were
+most protected from the darts and stones thrown by the engines, they
+crouched upon the ground, some in sullen silence, some beating their
+breasts and rending their robes, while the women and children wailed
+in their misery and hunger, throwing dust upon their heads. The Gate
+of Nicanor, however, was still held by a strong guard, who suffered
+none to approach it, nor did any attempt to ascend to its roof. That
+Caleb still lived Miriam knew, for she had seen him, covered with dust
+and blood, driven back by the charge of Roman horse up the steps of
+the gateway. This, indeed, he was one of the last to pass before it
+was closed and barred to keep out the pursuing Romans. After that she
+saw no more of him for many a month.
+
+So that day also, the last of the long siege, wore away. At nightfall
+the thick mist cleared, and for the last time the rich rays of sunset
+shone upon the gleaming roof and burning pinnacles of the Temple and
+were reflected from the dazzling whiteness of its walls. Never had it
+looked more beautiful than it did in that twilight as it towered,
+still perfect, above the black ruins of the desolated city. The
+clamour and shouting had died away, even the mourners had ceased their
+pitiful cries; except the guards, the Romans had withdrawn and were
+eating their evening meal, while those who worked the terrible engines
+ceased from their destroying toil. Peace, an ominous peace, brooded on
+the place, and everywhere, save for the flames that crackled among the
+cedar-wood beams in the roofs of the cloisters, was deep silence, such
+as in tropic lands precedes the bursting of a cyclone. To Miriam who
+watched, it seemed as though in the midst of this unnatural quiet
+Jehovah was withdrawing Himself from the house where His Spirit dwelt
+and from the people who worshipped Him with their lips, but rejected
+Him in their hearts. Her tormented nerves shuddered with a fear that
+was not of the body, as she stared upwards at the immense arch of the
+azure evening sky, half expecting that her mortal eyes would catch
+some vision of the departing wings of the Angel of the Lord. But there
+she could see nothing except the shapes of hundreds of high-poised
+eagles. "Where the carcase is there shall the eagles be gathered
+together," she muttered to herself, and remembering that these four
+birds were come to feast upon the bones of the whole people of the
+Jews and upon her own, she shut her eyes and groaned.
+
+Then the light died on the Temple towers and faded from the pale
+slopes of the mountains, and in place of the wheeling carrion birds
+bright stars shone out one by one upon the black mantle of the night.
+
+Once again, setting her teeth because of the agony that the touch of
+the marble gave to her raw and swollen flesh, Miriam began to fret the
+cords which bound her wrists against the rough edge of the angle-iron.
+She was sure that it was nearly worn through, but oh! how could she
+endure the agony until it parted? Still she did endure, for at her
+feet lay the bottle, and burning thirst drove her to the deed.
+Suddenly her reward came, and she felt that her arms were free; yes,
+numbed, swollen and bleeding, they fell against her sides, wrenching
+the stiffened muscles of her shoulders back to their place in such a
+fashion that she well-nigh fainted with the pain. Still they were
+free, and presently she was able to lift them, and with the help of
+her teeth to loose the ends of the cord, so that the blood could run
+once more through her blackened wrists and hands. Again she waited
+till some feeling had come back into her fingers, which were numb and
+like to mortify. Then she knelt down, and drawing the leather bottle
+to her, held it between her palms, while, with her teeth, she undid
+its thong. The task was hard, for it was well tied, but at length the
+knots gave, and Miriam drank. So fearful was her thirst that she could
+have emptied the bottle at a draught, but this she, who had lived in
+the desert, was too wise to do, for she knew that it might kill her.
+Also when that was gone there was no more. So she drank half of it in
+slow sips, then tied the string as well as she was able and set it
+down again.
+
+Now the wine, although it was mixed with water, took hold of her who
+for so long had eaten nothing save a mouldy crust, so that strange
+sounds drummed in her ears, and sinking down against the column she
+became senseless for a while. She awoke again, feeling somewhat
+refreshed and, though her head seemed as though it did not belong to
+her, well able to think. Her arms also were better and her fingers had
+recovered their feeling. If only she could loose that galling chain,
+she thought to herself, she might escape, for now death, however
+strong her faith, was very near and unlovely; also she suffered in
+many ways. To die and pass quick to Heaven--that would be well, but to
+perish by inches of starvation, heat, cold, and cramped limbs, with
+pains within and without and a swimming sickness of the head, ah! it
+was hard to bear. She knew that even were she free she could not hope
+to descend the gateway by its staircase, since the doors were locked
+and barred, and if she passed them it would be but to find herself
+among the Jews in the vaulted chambers beneath. But, so she thought,
+perhaps she could drop from the roof, which was not so very high, on
+to the paving in front of the first stair, and then, if she was
+unhurt, run or crawl to the Romans, who might give her shelter.
+
+So Miriam tried to undo the chain, only to find that as well might she
+hope to pull down the Gate Nicanor with her helpless hands. At this
+discovery she wept, for now she grew weak. Well for Miriam was it that
+she could not have her wish, for certainly had she attempted to drop
+down from the gateway to the marble paving, or even on to the
+battlements of the walls which ran up to it on either side, her bones
+would have been shattered like the shell of an egg and she must have
+perished miserably.
+
+While she grieved thus, Miriam heard a stir in the Court of Israel,
+and by the dim starlight saw that men were gathering, to do what she
+knew not. Presently, as she wondered, the great gates were opened very
+softly and out poured the Jews upon their last sally. Miriam was
+witnessing the death-struggle of the nation of Israel. At the foot of
+the marble steps they divided, one-half of them rushing towards the
+cloister on the right, and the other to that upon the left. Their
+object, as it seemed to her, was to slay those Roman soldiers, who, by
+the command of Titus, were still engaged in fighting the flames that
+devoured these beautiful buildings, and then to surprise the camp
+beyond. The scheme was such as a madman might have made, seeing that
+the Romans, warned by the sortie of the morning, had thrown up a wall
+across the lower part of the Court of Women, and beyond that were
+protected by every safeguard known to the science of ancient war. Also
+the moment that the first Jew set his foot upon the staircase,
+watching sentries cried out in warning and trumpets gave their call to
+arms.
+
+Still, they reached the cloisters and killed a few Romans who had not
+time to get away. Following those who fled, they came to the wall and
+began to try to force it, when suddenly on its crest and to the rear
+appeared thousands of those men whom they had hoped to destroy, every
+one of them wakeful, armed and marshalled. The Jews hesitated, and,
+like a living stream of steel, the Roman ranks poured over the wall.
+Then, of a sudden, terror seized those unhappy men, and, with a
+melancholy cry of utter despair, they turned to flee back to the Court
+of Israel. But this time the Romans were not content with driving them
+away, they came on with them; some of them even reached the gate
+before them. Up the marble steps poured friend and foe together;
+together they passed the open gate, in their mad rush sweeping away
+those who had stayed to guard it, and burst into the Court of Israel.
+Then leaving some to hold the gate and reinforced continually by fresh
+companies from the camps within and without the Temple courts, the
+Romans ran on towards the doors of the Holy House, cutting down the
+fugitives as they went. Now none attempted to stand; there was no
+fight made; even the bravest of the Jewish warriors, feeling that
+their hour was come and that Jehovah had deserted His people, flung
+down their weapons and fled, some to escape to the Upper City, more to
+perish on the Roman spears.
+
+A few attempted to take refuge in the Holy House itself, and after
+these followed some Romans bearing torches in their hands. Miriam,
+watching terrified from the roof of the Gate Nicanor, saw them go, the
+torches floating on the dusky air like points of wind-tossed fire.
+Then suddenly from a certain window on the north side of the Temple
+sprang out a flame so bright that from where she stood upon the gate,
+Miriam could see every detail of the golden tracery. A soldier mounted
+on the shoulders of another and not knowing in his madness that he was
+a destroying angel, had cast a torch into and fired the window. Up ran
+the bright, devouring flame spreading outwards like a fan, so that
+within some few minutes all that side of the Temple was but a roaring
+furnace. Meanwhile the Romans were pressing through the Gate Nicanor
+in an unending stream, till presently there was a cry of "Make way!
+Make way!"
+
+Miriam looked down to see a man, bare-headed and with close-cropped
+hair, white-robed also and unarmoured, as though he had risen from his
+couch, riding on a great war-horse, an ivory wand in his hand and
+preceded by an officer who bore the standard of the Roman Eagles. It
+was Titus itself, who as he came shouted to the centurions to beat
+back the legionaries and extinguish the fire. But who now could beat
+them back? As well might he have attempted to restrain the hosts of
+Gehenna burst to the upper earth. They were mad with the lust of blood
+and the lust of plunder, and even to the voice of their dread lord
+they paid no heed.
+
+New flames sprang up in other parts of the vast Temple. It was doomed.
+The golden doors were burst open and, attended by his officers, Titus
+passed through them to view for the first and last time the home of
+Jehovah, God of the Jews. From chamber to chamber he passed, yes, even
+into the Holy of Holies itself, whence by his command were brought out
+the golden candlesticks and the golden table of shrewbread, nor, since
+God had deserted His habitation, did any harm come to him for that
+deed.
+
+Now the Temple which for one thousand one hundred and thirty years had
+stood upon the sacred summit of Mount Moriah, went upwards in a sheet
+of flame, itself the greatest of the sacrifices that had ever been
+offered there; while soldiers stripped it of its gold and ornaments,
+tossing the sacred vessels to each other and tearing down the silken
+curtains of the shrine. Nor were victims lacking to that sacrifice,
+for in their blind fury the Romans fell upon the people who were
+crowded in the Court of Israel, and slew them to the number of more
+than ten thousand, warrior and priest, citizen and woman and child
+together, till the court swarm with blood and the Rock of Offering was
+black with the dead who had taken refuge there. Yet these did not
+perish quite unavenged, for many of the Romans, their arms filled with
+priceless spoils of gold and silver, the treasures of immemorial time,
+sank down overcome by the heat, and where they fell they died.
+
+From the Court of Israel went up one mighty wail of those who sank
+beneath the sword. From the thousands of the Romans went up a savage
+shout of triumph, the shout of those who put them to the sword. From
+the multitude of the Jews who watched this ruin from the Upper City
+went up a ceaseless scream of utter agony, and dominating all, like
+the accompaniment of some fearful music, rose the fierce, triumphant
+roar of fire. In straight lines and jagged pinnacles the flames soared
+hundreds of feet into the still air, leaping higher and ever higher as
+the white walls and gilded roofs fell in, till all the Temple was but
+one gigantic furnace, near which none could bide save the dead, whose
+very garments took fire as they lay upon the ground. Never, was such a
+sight seen before; never, perhaps, will such a sight be seen again--
+one so awesome, yet so majestic.
+
+Now every living being whom they could find was slain, and the Romans
+drew back, bearing their spoil with them. But the remainder of the
+Jews, to the number of some thousands, escaped by the bridges, which
+they broke down behind them, across the valley into the Upper City,
+whence that piercing, sobbing wail echoed without cease. Miriam
+watched till she could bear the sight no longer. The glare blinded
+her, the heat of the incandescent furnace shrivelled her up, her white
+dress scorched and turned brown. She crouched behind the shelter of
+her pinnacle gasping for breath. She prayed that she might die, and
+could not. Now she remembered the drink that remained in the leathern
+bottle, and swallowed it to the last drop. Then she crouched down
+again against the pillar, and lying thus her senses left her.
+
+
+
+When they came back it was daylight, and from the heap of ashes that
+had been the Temple of Herod and the most glorious building in the
+whole world, rose a thick cloud of black smoke, pierced here and there
+by little angry tongues of fire. The Court of Israel was strewn so
+thick with dead that in places the soldiers walked on them as on a
+carpet, or to be rid of them, hurled them into the smouldering ruins.
+Upon the altar that stood on the Rock of Sacrifice a strange sight was
+to be seen, for set up there was an object like the shaft of a lance
+wreathed with what seemed to be twining snakes and surmounted by a
+globe on which she stood a golden eagle with outspread wings. Gathered
+in front of it were a vast number of legionaries who did obeisance to
+this object. They were offering worship to the Roman standards upon
+the ancient altar of the God of Israel! Presently a figure rode before
+them attended by a glittering staff of officers, to be greeted with a
+mighty shout of "Titus /Imperator/! Titus /Imperator/!" Here on the
+sense of his triumph his victorious legions named their general Cæsar.
+
+Nor was the fighting altogether ended, for on the roofs of some of the
+burning cloisters were gathered a few of the most desperate of the
+survivors of the Jews, who, as the cloisters crumbled beneath them,
+retreated slowly towards the Gate Nicanor, which still stood unharmed.
+The Romans, weary with slaughter, called to them to come down and
+surrender, but they would not, and Miriam watching them, to her horror
+saw that one of these men was none other than her grandfather, Benoni.
+As they would not yield, the Romans shot at them with arrows, so that
+presently every one of them was down except Benoni, whom no dart
+seemed to touch.
+
+"Cease shooting," cried a voice, "and bring a ladder. That man is
+brave and one of the Sanhedrim. Let him be taken alive."
+
+A ladder was brought and reared against the wall near the Gate Nicanor
+and up it came Romans. Benoni retreated before them till he stood upon
+the edge of the gulf of advancing fire. Then he turned round and faced
+them. As he turned he caught sight of Miriam huddled at the base of
+her column upon the roof of the gate, and thinking that she was dead,
+wrung his hands and tore his beard. She guessed his grief, but so weak
+and parched was she, that she could call no word of comfort to him, or
+do more than watch the end with fascinated eyes.
+
+The soldiers came on along the top of the wall till they feared to
+approach nearer to the fire, lest they should fall through the burning
+rafters.
+
+"Yield!" they cried. "Yield, fool, before you perish! Titus gives you
+your life."
+
+"That he may drag me, an elder of Israel, in chains through the
+streets of Rome," answered the old Jew scornfully. "Nay, I will not
+yield, and I pray God that the same end which you have brought upon
+this city and its children, may fall upon your city and its children
+at the hands of men even more cruel than yourselves."
+
+Then stooping down he lifted a spear which lay upon the wall and
+hurled it at them so fiercely, that it transfixed the buckler of one
+of the soldiers and the arm behind the buckler.
+
+"Would that it had been your heart, heathen, and the heart of all your
+race!" he screamed, and lifting his hands as though in invocation,
+suddenly plunged headlong into the flames beneath.
+
+Thus, fierce and brave to the last, died Benoni the Jew.
+
+
+
+Again Miriam fainted, again to be awakened. The door that led from the
+gate chambers to its roof burst open and through it sped a figure
+bare-headed and dishevelled, his torn raiment black with blood and
+smoke. Staring at him, Miriam knew the man who Simeon--yes, Simeon,
+her cruel judge, who had doomed her to this dreadful end. After him,
+gripping his robe indeed, came a Roman officer, a stout man of middle
+age, with a weather-beaten kindly face, which in some dim way seemed
+to be familiar to her, and after him again, six soldiers.
+
+"Hold him!" he panted. "We must have one of them to show if only that
+the people may know what a live Jew is like," and the officer tugged
+so fiercely at the robe that in his struggles to be free, for he also
+hoped to die by casting himself from the gateway tower, Simeon fell
+down.
+
+Next instant the soldiers were on him and held him fast. Then it was
+for the first time that the captain caught sight of Miriam crouched at
+the foot of her pillar.
+
+"Why," he said, "I had forgotten. That is the girl whom we saw
+yesterday from the Court of Women and whom we have orders to save. Is
+the poor thing dead?"
+
+Miriam lifted her wan face and looked at him.
+
+"By Bacchus!" he said, "I have seen that face before; it is not one
+that a man would forget. Ah! I have it now." Then he stooped and
+eagerly read the writing that was tied upon her breast:
+
+ "Miriam, Nazarene and traitress, is doomed here to die as God shall
+  appoint before the face of her friends, the Romans."
+
+"Miriam," he said, then started and checked himself.
+
+"Look!" cried one of the soldiers, "the girl wears pearls, and good
+ones. Is it your pleasure that I should cut them off?"
+
+"Nay, let them be," he answered. "Neither she nor her pearls are for
+any of us. Loosen her chain, not her necklet."
+
+So with much trouble they broke the rivets of the chain.
+
+"Can you stand, lady?" said the captain to Miriam.
+
+She shook her head.
+
+"Then I needs must carry you," and stooping down he lifted her in his
+strong arms as though she had been but a child, and, bidding the
+soldiers bring the Jew Simeon with them, slowly and with great care
+descended the staircase up which Miriam had been taken more than sixty
+hours before.
+
+Passing through the outer doors into the archway where the great gate
+by which the Romans had gained access to the Temple stood wide, the
+captain turned into the Court of Israel, where some soldiers who were
+engaged in dividing spoil looked up laughing and asked him whose baby
+he had captured. Paying no heed to them he walked across the court,
+picking his way through the heaps of dead to a range of the southern
+cloisters which were still standing, where officers might be seen
+coming and going. Under one of these cloisters, seated on a stool and
+employed in examining the vessels and other treasures of the Temple,
+which were brought before him one by one, was Titus. Looking up he saw
+this strange procession and commanded that they should be brought
+before him.
+
+"Who is it that you carry in your arms, captain?" he asked.
+
+"That girl, Cæsar," he answered, "who was bound upon the gateway and
+whom you have orders should not be shot at."
+
+"Does she still live?"
+
+"She lives--no more. Thirst and heat have withered her."
+
+"How came she there?"
+
+"This writing tells you, Cæsar."
+
+Titus read. "Ah!" he said, "Nazarene. An evil sect, worse even than
+these Jews, or so thought the late divine Nero. Traitress also. Why,
+the girl must have deserved her fate. But what is this? 'Is doomed to
+die as God shall appoint before the face of her friends, the Romans.'
+How are the Romans her friends, I wonder? Girl, if you can speak, tell
+me who condemned you."
+
+Miriam lifted her dark head from the shoulder of the captain on which
+it lay and pointed with her finger at the Jew, Simeon.
+
+"Is that so, man?" asked Cæsar. "Now tell the truth, for I shall learn
+it, and if you lie you die."
+
+"She was condemned by the Sanhedrim, among whom was her own
+grandfather, Benoni; there is his signature with the rest upon the
+scroll," Simeon answered sullenly.
+
+"For what crime?"
+
+"Because she suffered a Roman prisoner to escape, for which deed," he
+added furiously, "may her soul burn in Gehenna for ever and aye!"
+
+"What was the name of the prisoner?" asked Titus.
+
+"I do not remember," answered Simeon.
+
+"Well," said Cæsar, "it does not greatly matter, for either he is safe
+or he is dead. Your robes, what are left of them, show that you also
+are one of the Sanhedrim. Is it not so?"
+
+"Yes. I am Simeon, a name that you have heard."
+
+"Ah! Simeon, here it is, written on this scroll first of all. Well,
+Simeon, you doomed a high-born lady to a cruel death because she
+saved, or tried to save, a Roman soldier, and it is but just that you
+should drink of your own wine. Take him and fasten him to the column
+on the gateway and leave him there to perish. Your Holy House is
+destroyed, Simeon, and being a faithful priest, you would not wish to
+survive your worship."
+
+"There you are right, Roman," he answered, "though I should have been
+better pleased with a quicker end, such as I trust may overtake you."
+
+Then they led him off, and presently Simeon appeared upon the gateway
+with Miriam's chain about his middle and Miriam's rope knotted afresh
+about his wrists.
+
+"Now for this poor girl," went on Titus Cæsar. "It seems that she is a
+Nazarene, a sect of which all men speak ill, for they try to subvert
+authority and preach doctrines that would bring the world to ruin.
+Also she was false to her own people, which is a crime, though one in
+this instance whereof we Romans cannot complain. Therefore, if only
+for the sake of example it would be wrong to set her free; indeed, to
+do so, would be to give her to death. My command is, then, that she
+shall be taken good care of, and if she recovers, be sent to Rome to
+adorn my Triumph, should the gods grant me such a thing, and
+afterwards be sold as a slave for the benefit of the wounded soldiers
+and the poor. Meanwhile, who will take charge of her?"
+
+"I," said that officer who had freed Miriam. "There is an old woman
+who tends my tent, who can nurse her in her sickness."
+
+"Understand, friend," answered Titus, "that no harm is to be done to
+this girl, who is my property."
+
+"I understand, O Cæsar," said the officer. "She shall be treated as
+though she were my daughter."
+
+"Good. You who are present, remember his words and my decree. In Rome,
+if we live to reach it, you shall give account to me of the captive
+lady, Miriam. Now take her away, for there are greater matters to be
+dealt with than the fortunes of this girl."
+
+
+
+                             CHAPTER XIX
+
+                             PEARL-MAIDEN
+
+Many days had gone by, but still the fighting was not ended, for the
+Jews continued to hold the Upper City. As it chanced, however, in one
+of the assaults upon it that officer who had rescued Miriam was badly
+hurt by a spear-thrust in the leg, so that he could be of no more
+service in this war. Therefore, because he was a man whom Titus
+trusted, he was ordered to sail with others of the sick for Rome,
+taking in his charge much of the treasure that had been captured, and
+for this purpose travelled down to Tyre, whence his vessel was to put
+to sea. In obedience to the command of Cæsar he had carried the
+captive Miriam to the camp of his legion upon the Mount of Olives, and
+there placed her in a tent, where an old slave-woman tended her. For a
+while it was not certain whether she should live or die, for her
+sufferings and all that she had seen brought her so near to death that
+it was hard to keep her from passing its half-opened gates. Still,
+with good food and care, the strength came back to her body. But in
+mind Miriam remained sick, since during all these weeks she wandered
+in her talk, so that no word of reason passed her lips.
+
+Now, many would have wearied of her and thrust her out to take her
+chance with hundreds of other poor creatures who roamed about the land
+until they perished or were enslaved of Arabs. But this Roman did not
+act thus; in truth, as he had promised it should be, had she been his
+daughter, Miriam would not have been better tended. Whenever his
+duties gave him time he would sit with her, trying to beguile her
+madness, and after he himself was wounded, from morning to night they
+were together, till at length the poor girl grew to love him in a
+crazy fashion, and would throw her arms about his neck and call him
+"uncle," as in the old days she had named the Essenes. Moreover, she
+learned to know the soldiers of that legion, who became fond of her
+and would bring her offerings of fruit and winter flowers, or of aught
+else that they thought would please her. So when the captain received
+his orders to proceed to Tyre with the treasure and take ship there,
+he and his guard took Miriam with them, and journeying easily, reached
+the city on the eighth day.
+
+As it chanced their ship was not ready, so they camped on the
+outskirts of Paleotyrus, and by a strange accident in that very garden
+which had been the property of Benoni. This place they reached after
+sunset one evening and set up their tents, that of Miriam and the old
+slave-woman being placed on the seashore next to the tent of her
+protector. This night she slept well, and being awakened at the dawn
+by the murmur of the sea among the rocks, went to the door of the tent
+and looked out. All the camp was sleeping, for here they had no enemy
+to fear, and a great calm lay upon the sea and land. Presently the
+mist lifted and the rays of the rising sun poured across the blue
+ocean and its gray, bordering coast.
+
+With that returning light, as it happened, the light returned also
+into Miriam's darkened mind. She became aware that this scene was
+familiar; she recognised the outlines of the proud and ancient island
+town. More, she remembered that garden; yes, there assuredly was the
+palm-tree beneath which she had often sat, and there the rock, under
+whose shadow grew white lilies, where she had rested with Nehushta
+when the Roman captain brought her the letter and the gifts from
+Marcus. Instinctively Miriam put her hand to her neck. About it still
+hung the collar of pearls, and on the pearls the ring which the slave-
+woman had found in her hair and tied there for safety. She took off
+the ring and placed it back upon her finger. Then she walked to the
+rock, sat down and tried to think. But for this, as yet her mind was
+not strong enough, for there rose up in it vision after vision of
+blood and fire, which crushed and overwhelmed her. All that went
+before the siege was clear, the rest one red confusion.
+
+While she sat thus the Roman captain hobbled from his pavilion,
+resting on a crutch, for his leg was still lame and shrivelled. First
+he went to Miriam's tent to inquire after her of the old woman, as was
+his custom at the daybreak, then, learning that she had gone out of
+it, looked round for her. Presently he perceived her sitting in the
+shade of the rock gazing at the sea, and followed to join her.
+
+"Good morning to you, daughter," he said. "How have you slept after
+your long journey?" and paused, expecting to be answered with some
+babbling, gentle nonsense such as flowed from Miriam's lips in her
+illness. But instead of this she rose and stood before him looking
+confused. Then she replied:
+
+"Sir, I thank you, I have slept well; but tell me, is not yonder town
+Tyre, and is not this the garden of my grandfather, Benoni, where I
+used to wander? Nay, how can it be? So long has passed since I walked
+in this garden, and so many things have happened--terrible, terrible
+things which I cannot remember," and she hid her eyes in her hand and
+moaned.
+
+"Don't try to remember them," he said cheerfully. "There is so much in
+life that it is better to forget. Yes, this is Tyre, sure enough. You
+could not recognise it last night because it was too dark, and this
+garden, I am told, did belong to Benoni. Who it belongs to now I do
+not know. To you, I suppose, and through you to Cæsar."
+
+Now while he spoke thus somewhat at random, for he was watching her
+all the while, Miriam kept her eyes fixed upon his face, as though she
+searched there for something which she could but half recall. Suddenly
+an inspiration entered into them and she said:
+
+"Now I have it! You are the Roman captain, Gallus, who brought me the
+letter from----" and she paused, thrusting her hand into the bosom of
+her robe, then went on with something like a sob: "Oh! it is gone. How
+did it go? Let me think."
+
+"Don't think," said Gallus; "there are so many things in the world
+which it is better not to think about. Yes, as it happens, I am that
+man, and some years ago I did bring you the letter from Marcus, called
+The Fortunate. Also, as it chanced, I never forgot your sweet face and
+knew it again at a time when it was well that you should find a
+friend. No, we won't talk about it now. Look, the old slave calls you.
+It is time that you should break your fast, and I also must eat and
+have my wound dressed. Afterwards we will talk."
+
+All that morning Miriam saw nothing more of Gallus. Indeed, he did not
+mean that she should, since he was sure that her new-found sense ought
+not to be overstrained at first, lest it should break down again,
+never to recover. So she went out and sat alone by the garden beach,
+for the soldiers had orders to respect her privacy, and gazed at the
+sea.
+
+As she sat thus in quiet, event by event the terrible past came back
+to her. She remembered it all now--their flight from Tyre; the march
+into Jerusalem; the sojourn in the dark with the Essenes; the Old
+Tower and what befell there; the escape of Marcus; her trial before
+the Sanhedrim; the execution of her sentence upon the gateway; and
+then that fearful night when the flames of the burning Temple scorched
+to her very brain, and the sights and sounds of slaughter withered her
+heart. After this she could recall but one more thing--the vision of
+the majestic figure of Benoni standing against a background of black
+smoke upon the lofty cloister-roof and defying the Romans before he
+plunged headlong in the flames beneath. Of her rescue on the roof of
+the Gate Nicanor, of her being carried before Titus Cæsar in the arms
+of Gallus, and of his judgment concerning her she recollected nothing.
+Nor, indeed, did she ever attain to a clear memory of those events,
+while the time between them and the recovery of her reason by the
+seashore in the garden at Tyre always remained a blank. That troubled
+fragment of her life was sunk in a black sea of oblivion.
+
+At length the old woman came to summon Miriam to her midday meal, and
+led her, not to her own tent, but to that which was pitched to serve
+as an eating-place for the captain, Gallus. As she went she saw knots
+of soldiers gathered across her path as though to intercept her, and
+turned to fly, for the sight of them brought back the terrors of the
+siege.
+
+"Have no fear of them," said the old woman, smiling. "Ill would it go
+here with him who dared to lift a finger against their Pearl-Maiden."
+
+"Pearl-Maiden! Why?" asked Miriam.
+
+"That is what they call you, because of the necklace that was upon
+your breast when you were captured, which you wear still. As for why--
+well, I suppose because they love you, the poor sick thing they
+nursed. They have heard that you are better and gather to give you joy
+of it; that is all."
+
+Sure enough, the words were true, for, as Miriam approached, these
+rough legionaries cheered and clapped their hands, while one of them
+an evil-looking fellow with a broken nose, who was said to have
+committed great cruelties during the siege, came forward bowing and
+presented her with a handful of wild-flowers, which he must have
+collected with some trouble, since, at this season of the year they
+were not common. She took them, and being still weak, burst into
+tears.
+
+"Why should you treat me thus," she asked, "who am, as I understand,
+but a poor captive?"
+
+"Nay, nay," answered a sergeant, with an uncouth oath. "It is we who
+are your captives, Pearl-Maiden, and we are glad, because your mind
+has come to you, though, seeing how sweet you were without it, we do
+not know that it can better you very much."
+
+"Oh! friends, friends," began Miriam, then once more broke down.
+
+Meanwhile, hearing the disturbance Gallus had come from his tent and
+was hobbling towards them, when suddenly he caught sight of the tears
+upon Miriam's face and broke out into such language as could only be
+used by a Roman officer of experience.
+
+"What have you been doing to her, you cowardly hounds?" he shouted.
+"By Cæsar and the Standards, if one of you has even said a word that
+she should not hear, he shall be flogged until the bones break through
+his skin," and his very beard bristling with wrath, Gallus uttered a
+series of the most fearful maledictions upon the head of that supposed
+offender, his female ancestry, and his descendants.
+
+"Your pardon, captain," said the sergeant, "but /you/ are uttering
+many words that no maiden should hear."
+
+"Do you dare to argue with me, you foul-tongued camp scavenger?"
+shouted Gallus. "Here, guard, lash him to that tree! Fear not,
+daughter; the insult shall be avenged; we shall teach his dirty tongue
+to sing another tune," and again he cursed him, naming him by new
+names.
+
+"Oh! sir, sir," broke in Miriam, "what are you about to do? This man
+offered me no insult, none of them offered me anything except kind
+words and flowers."
+
+"Then how is it that you weep?" asked Gallus suspiciously.
+
+"I wept, being still weak, because they who are conquerors were so
+kind to one who is a slave and an outcast."
+
+"Oh!" said Gallus. "Well, guard, you need not tie him up this time,
+but after all I take back nothing that I have said, seeing that in
+this way or in that they did make you weep. What business had they to
+insult you with their kindness? Men, henceforth you will be so good as
+to remember that this maiden is the property of Titus Cæsar, and after
+Cæsar, of myself, in whose charge he placed her. If you have any
+offerings to make to her, and I do not dissuade you from that
+practice, they must be made through me. Meanwhile, there is a cask of
+wine, that good old stuff from the Lebanon which I had bought for the
+voyage. If you should wish to drink the health of our--our captive, it
+is at your service."
+
+Then taking Miriam by the hand he led her into the eating-tent, still
+grumbling at the soldiers, who for their part laughed and sent for the
+wine. They knew their captain's temper, who had served with them
+through many a fight, and knew also that this crazed Pearl-Maiden whom
+he saved had twined herself into his heart, as was her fortune with
+most men of those among whom from time to time fate drove her to seek
+shelter.
+
+In the tent Miriam found two places set, one for herself and one for
+the captain Gallus.
+
+"Don't talk to me," he said, "but sit down and eat, for little enough
+you have swallowed all the time you were sick, and we sail to-morrow
+evening at the latest, after which, unless you differ from most women,
+little enough will you swallow on these winter seas until it pleases
+whatever god we worship to bring us to the coasts of Italy. Now here
+are oysters brought by runner from Sidon, and I command that you eat
+six of them before you say a word."
+
+So Miriam ate the oysters obediently, and after the oysters, fish, and
+after the fish the breast of a woodcock. But from the autumn lamb,
+roasted whole, which followed, she was forced to turn.
+
+"Send it out to the soldiers," she suggested, and it was sent as her
+gift.
+
+"Now, my captive," said Gallus, drawing his stool near to her, "I want
+you to tell me what you can remember of your story. Ah! you don't know
+that for many days past we have dined together and that it had been
+your fashion to sit with your arm round my old neck and call me your
+uncle. Nay, child, you need not blush, for I am more than old enough
+to be your father, let alone your uncle, and nothing but a father
+shall I ever be to you."
+
+"Why are you so good to me?" asked Miriam.
+
+"Why? Oh! for several reasons. First, you were the friend of a comrade
+of mine who often talked of you, but who now is dead. Secondly, you
+were a sick and helpless thing whom I chanced to rescue in the great
+slaughter, and who ever since has been my companion; and thirdly--yes,
+I will say it, though I do not love to talk of that matter, I had a
+daughter, who died, and who, had she lived, would have been of about
+your age. Your eyes remind me of hers--there, is that not enough?
+
+"But now for the story. Stay. I will tell you what I know of it.
+Marcus, he whom they called The Fortunate, but whose fortune has
+deserted him, was in love with you--like the rest of us. Often he
+talked to me of you in Rome, where we were friends after a fashion,
+though he was set far above me, and by me sent to you that letter
+which I delivered here in this garden, and the trinket that you wear
+about your neck, and if I remember right, with it a ring--yes, it is
+upon your finger. Well, I took note of you at the time and went my way
+to the war, and when I chanced to find you lately upon the top of the
+Gate Nicanor, although you were more like a half-burnt cinder than a
+fair maiden, I knew you again and carried you off to Cæsar, who named
+you his slave and bade me take charge of you and deliver you to him in
+Rome. Now I want to know how you came to be upon that gateway."
+
+So Miriam began and told him all her tale, while he listened
+patiently. When she had done he rose and, limping round the little
+table, bent over and kissed her solemnly upon the brow.
+
+"By all the gods of the Romans, Greeks, Christians, Jews, and
+barbarian nations, you are a noble-hearted woman," he said, "and that
+kiss is my tribute to you. Little wonder that puppy, Marcus, is called
+The Fortunate, since, even when he deserved to die who suffered
+himself to be taken alive, you appeared to save him--to save him, by
+Venus, at the cost of your own sweet self. Well, most noble traitress,
+what now?"
+
+"I ask that question of you, Gallus. What now? Marcus, whom you should
+call no ill name, and who was overwhelmed through no fault of his own,
+fighting like a hero, has vanished----"
+
+"Across the Styx, I fear me. Indeed that would be best for him, since
+no Roman must be taken prisoner and live."
+
+"Nay, I think not, or at the least I hope he lives. My servant,
+Nehushta, would nurse him for my sake, and for my sake the Essenes,
+among whom I dwelt, would guard him, even to the loss of their own
+lives. Unless his wound killed him I believe that Marcus is alive
+to-day."
+
+"And if that is so you wish to communicate with him?"
+
+"What else, Gallus? Say, what fate will befall me when I reach Rome?"
+
+"You will be kept safe till Titus comes. Then, according to his
+command, you must walk in his Triumph, and after that, unless he
+changes his mind, which is not likely, since he prides himself upon
+never having reversed a decree, however hastily it was made, or even
+added to or taken from a judgment, you must, alas! be set up in the
+Forum and sold as a slave to the highest bidder."
+
+"Sold as a slave to the highest bidder!" repeated Miriam faintly.
+"That is a poor fate for a woman, is it not? Had it been that daughter
+of yours who died, for instance, you would have thought it a poor fate
+for her, would you not?"
+
+"Do not speak of it, do not speak of it," muttered Gallus into his
+beard. "Well, in this, as in other things, let us hope that fortune
+will favour you."
+
+"I should like Marcus to learn that I am to march in the Triumph, and
+afterwards to be set up in the Forum and sold as a slave to the
+highest bidder," said Miriam.
+
+"I should like Marcus to learn--but, in the name of the gods--how is
+he to learn, if he still lives? Look you, we sail to-morrow night.
+What do you wish me to do?"
+
+"I wish you to send a messenger to Marcus bearing a token from me to
+him."
+
+"A messenger! What messenger? Who can find him? I can despatch a
+soldier, but your Marcus is with the Essenes, who for their own sakes
+will keep him fast enough as a hostage, if they have cured him. Also
+the Essenes live, according to your story, in some hyæna-burrow,
+opening out of an underground quarry in Jerusalem, that is, if they
+have not been discovered and killed long ago. How, then, will any
+soldier find their hiding-place?"
+
+"I do not think that such a man would find it," answered Miriam, "but
+I have friends in this city, and if I could come at them I might
+discover one who would meet with better fortune. You know that I am a
+Christian who was brought up among the Essenes, both of them
+persecuted people that have their secrets. If I find a Christian or an
+Essene he would take my message and--unless he was killed--deliver
+it."
+
+Now Gallus thought for a while, then he said, "If I were to go out in
+Tyre asking for Christians or Essenes, none would appear. As well
+might a stork go out and call upon a frog. But that old slave-woman,
+who has tended on me and you, she is cunning in her way, and if I
+promised to set her at liberty should she succeed, well, perhaps she
+might succeed. Stay, I will summon her," and he left the tent.
+
+Some minutes later he returned, bringing the slave with him.
+
+"I have explained the matter to this woman, Miriam," he said, "and I
+think that she understands, and can prove to any who are willing to
+visit you, that they will have a free pass in to and out of the camp,
+and need fear no harm. Tell her, then, where she is to go and whom she
+must seek."
+
+So Miriam told the woman, saying, "Tell any Essene whom you can find
+that she who is called their Queen, bids his presence, and if he asks
+more, give him this word--'The sun rises.' Tell any Christian whom you
+can find that Miriam, their sister, seeks his aid, and if he asks
+more, give him this word--'The dawn comes.' Do you understand?"
+
+"I understand," answered the woman.
+
+"Then go," said Gallus, "and be back by nightfall, remembering that if
+you fail, in place of liberty you travel to Rome, whence you will
+return no more."
+
+"My lord, I go," answered the woman, beating her forehead with her
+hand and bowing herself from their presence.
+
+By nightfall she was back again with the tidings that no Christians
+seemed to be left in Tyre; all had fled to Pella, or elsewhere. Of the
+Essenes, however, she had found one, a minor brother of the name of
+Samuel, who, on hearing that Miriam was the captive, and receiving the
+watchword, said that he would visit the camp after dark, although he
+greatly feared that this might be some snare set to catch him.
+
+After dark he came accordingly, and was led by the old woman, who
+waited outside to meet him, to the tent where Miriam sat with Gallus.
+This Samuel proved to be a brother of the lowest order of the Essenes,
+whom, although he knew of her, Miriam had never seen. He had been
+absent from the village by the Jordan at the time of the flight of the
+sect, having come to Tyre by leave of the Court to bid farewell to his
+mother, who was on her deathbed. Hearing that the brethren had fled,
+and his mother being still alive, he had remained in Tyre instead of
+seeking to rejoin them at Jerusalem, thus escaping the terrors of the
+siege. That was all his story. Now, having buried his mother, he
+desired to rejoin the brotherhood, if any of them were left alive.
+
+After Gallus had left the tent, since it was not lawful that she
+should speak of their secrets in the presence of any man who was not
+of the order, Miriam, having first satisfied herself that he was in
+truth a brother, told this Samuel all she knew of the hiding-place of
+the Essenes beyond the ancient quarry, and asked him if he was willing
+to try to seek it out. He said yes, for he desired to find them; also
+he was bound to give her what help he could, since should the brethren
+discover that he had refused it, he would be expelled from their
+order. Then, having pledged him to be faithful to her trust, not by
+oath, which the Essenes held unlawful, but in accordance with their
+secret custom which was known to her, she took from her hand the ring
+that Marcus had sent her, bidding him find out the Essenes, and, if
+their Roman prisoner was yet alive, and among them, to deliver it to
+him with a message telling him of her fate and whither she had gone.
+If he was dead, or not to be found anywhere, then he was to deliver
+the ring to the Libyan woman named Nehushta, with the same message. If
+he could not find her either, then to her uncle Ithiel, or, failing
+him, to whoever was president of the Essenes, with the same message,
+praying any or all of them to succour her in her troubles, should that
+be possible. At the least they were to let her have tidings at the
+house of Gallus, the captain, in Rome, where he proposed to place her
+in charge of his wife until the time came for her to be handed over to
+Titus and to walk in the Triumph. Moreover, in case the brother should
+forget, she wrote a letter that he might deliver to any of those for
+whom she gave the message. In this letter Miriam set out briefly all
+that had befallen her since that night of parting in the Old Tower,
+and by the help of Gallus, whom she now recalled to the tent, the
+particulars of her rescue and of the judgment of Cæsar upon her
+person, ending it with these words:
+
+ "If it be the will of God and your will, O you who may read this
+  letter, haste, haste to help me, that I may escape the shame more
+  sore than death which awaits me yonder in Rome."
+
+This letter she signed, "Miriam, of the house of Benoni," but she did
+not write upon it the names of those to whom it was addressed, fearing
+lest it should fall into other hands and bring trouble upon them.
+
+Then Gallus asked the man Samuel what money he needed for his journey
+and as a reward for his service. He answered that it was against his
+rule to take any money, who was bound to help those under the
+protection of the order without reward or fee, whereat Gallus stared
+and said that there were stranger folk in this land than in any others
+that he knew, and they were many.
+
+So Samuel, having bowed before Miriam and pressed her hand in a
+certain fashion in token of brotherhood and fidelity, was led out of
+the camp again, nor did she ever see him more. Yet, as it proved, he
+was a faithful messenger, and she did well to trust him.
+
+Next day, at the prayer of Miriam, Gallus also wrote a letter, which
+gave him much trouble, to a friend of his, who was a brother officer
+with the army at Jerusalem, enclosing one to be handed to Marcus if,
+perchance, he should have rejoined the Standards.
+
+"Now daughter," he said, "we have done all that can be done, and must
+leave the rest to fate."
+
+"Yes," she answered with a sigh, "we must leave the rest to fate, as
+you Romans call God."
+
+In the evening they set sail for Italy, and with them much of the
+captured treasure, many sick and wounded men and a guard of soldiers.
+As it chanced, having taken the sea after the autumn gales and before
+those of mid-winter began, they had a swift and prosperous voyage,
+enduring no hardships save once from want of water. Within thirty days
+they came to Rhegium, whence they marched overland to Rome, being
+received everywhere very gladly by people who were eager for tidings
+of the war.
+
+
+
+                              CHAPTER XX
+
+                        THE MERCHANT DEMETRIUS
+
+When on that fateful night in the Old Tower Miriam sprang forward to
+strike the lantern from the hand of the Jew, Nehushta, who was bending
+over the fallen Marcus and dragging at his body, did not even see that
+she had left the door.
+
+With an effort, the slope of the rocky passage beyond favouring her,
+she half-drew, half-lifted the Roman through the entrance. Then it
+was, as she straightened herself a little to take breath, that she
+heard the thud of the rock door closing behind her. Still, as it was
+dark, she did not guess that Miriam was parted from them, for she
+said:
+
+"Ah! into what troubles do not these men lead us poor women. Well,
+just in time, and I think that none of them saw us."
+
+There was no answer. Sound could not pierce that wall and the place
+was silent as a tomb.
+
+"Lady! In the Name of Christ, where are you, lady?" asked Nehushta in
+a piercing whisper, and the echoes of the gallery answered--"Where are
+you, lady?"
+
+Just then Marcus awoke.
+
+"What has chanced? What place is this, Miriam?" he asked.
+
+"This has chanced," answered Nehushta in the same awful voice. "We are
+in the passage leading to the vaults; Miriam is in the hands of the
+Jews in the Old Tower, and the door is shut between us. Accursed
+Roman! to save your life she has sacrificed herself. Without doubt she
+sprang from the door to dash the lantern from the hand of the Jew, and
+before she could return again it had swung home. Now they will crucify
+her because she rescued you--a Roman."
+
+"Don't talk, woman," broke in Marcus savagely, "open the door. I am
+still a man, I can still fight, or," he added with a groan,
+remembering that he had no sword, "at the least I can die for her."
+
+"I cannot," gasped Nehushta. "She had the iron that lifts the secret
+latch. If you had kept your sword, Roman, it might perhaps have
+served, but that has gone also."
+
+"Break it down," said Marcus. "Come, I will help."
+
+"Yes, yes, Roman, you will help to break down three feet of solid
+stone."
+
+Then began that hideous scene whereof something has been said.
+Nehushta strove to reach the latch with her fingers. Marcus, standing
+upon one foot, strove to shake the stone with his shoulder, the black,
+silent stone that never so much as stirred. Yet they worked madly,
+their breath coming in great gasps, knowing that the work was in vain,
+and that even if they could open the door, by now it would be to find
+Miriam gone, or at the best to be taken themselves. Suddenly Marcus
+ceased from his labour.
+
+"Lost!" he moaned, "and for my sake. O ye gods! for my sake." Then
+down he fell, his harness clattering on the rocky step, and lay there,
+muttering and laughing foolishly.
+
+Nehushta ceased also, gasping: "The Lord help you, Miriam, for I
+cannot. Oh! after all these years to lose you thus, and because of
+that man!" and she glared through the darkness towards the fallen
+Marcus, thinking in her heart that she would kill him.
+
+"Nay," she said to herself, "she loved him, and did she know it might
+pain her. Better kill myself; yes, and if I were sure that she is dead
+this, sin or no sin, I would do."
+
+As she sat thus, helpless, hopeless, she saw a light coming up the
+stair towards them. It was borne by Ithiel. Nehushta rose and faced
+him.
+
+"Praise be to God! there you are at length," he said. "Thrice have I
+been up this stair wondering why Miriam did not come."
+
+"Brother Ithiel," answered Nehushta, "Miriam will come no more; she is
+gone, leaving us in exchange this man Marcus, the Roman prefect of
+Horse."
+
+"What do you mean? What do you mean?" he gasped. "Where is Miriam?"
+
+"In the hands of the Jews," she answered. Then she told him all that
+story.
+
+"There is nothing to be done," he moaned when she had finished. "To
+open the door now would be but to reveal the secret of our hiding-
+place to the Jews or to the Romans, either of whom would put us to the
+sword, the Jews for food, the Romans because we are Jews. We can only
+leave her to God and protect ourselves."
+
+"Had I my will," answered Nehushta, "I would leave myself to God and
+still strive to protect her. Yet you are right, seeing that many lives
+cannot be risked for the sake of one girl. But what of this man?"
+
+"We will do our best for him," answered Ithiel, "for so she who
+sacrificed herself for his sake would have wished. Also years ago he
+was our guest and befriended us. Stay here a while and I will bring
+men to carry him to the vault."
+
+So Ithiel went away to return with sundry of the brethren, who lifted
+Marcus and bore him down the stairs and passages to that darksome
+chamber where Miriam had slept, while other brethren shut the trap-
+door, and loosened the roof of the passage, blocking it with stone so
+that without great labour none could pass that path for ever.
+
+Here in this silent, sunless vault for many, many days Marcus lay sick
+with a brain fever, of which, had it not been for the skilful nursing
+of Nehushta and of the leeches among the Essenes, he must certainly
+have died. But these leeches, who were very clever, doctored the deep
+sword-cut in his head, removing with little iron hooks the fragments
+of bone which pressed upon his brain, and dressing that wound and
+another in his knee with salves.
+
+Meanwhile, they learned by their spies that both the Temple and Mount
+Sion had fallen. Also they heard of the trial of Miriam and of her
+exposure on the Gate Nicanor, but of what happened to her afterwards
+they could gather nothing. So they mourned her as dead.
+
+Now, their food being at length exhausted and the watch of the Romans
+having relaxed, they determined, those who were left of them, for some
+had died and Ithiel himself was very ill, to attempt to escape from
+the hateful vaults that had sheltered them for all these months. A
+question arose as to what was to be done with Marcus, now but a shadow
+of a man, who still wandered somewhat in his mind, but who had passed
+the worst of his sickness and seemed like to live. Some were for
+abandoning him; some for sending him back to the Romans; but Nehushta
+showed that it would be wise to keep him as a hostage, so that if they
+were attacked they might produce him and in return for their care,
+perhaps buy their lives. In the end they agreed upon this course, not
+so much for what they might gain by it, but because they knew that it
+would have pleased the lost maid whom they called their Queen, who had
+perished to save this man.
+
+So it came about that upon a certain night of rain and storm, when
+none were stirring, a number of men with faces white as lepers, of the
+hue, indeed, of roots that have pushed in the dark, might have been
+seen travelling down the cavern quarries, now tenanted only by the
+corpses of those who had perished there from starvation, and so
+through the hole beneath the wall into the free air. With them went
+litters bearing their sick, and among the sick, Ithiel and Marcus.
+None hindered their flight, for the Romans had deserted this part of
+the ruined city and were encamped around the towers in the
+neighbourhood of Mount Sion, where some few Jews still held out.
+
+Thus it happened that by morning they were well on the road to
+Jericho, which, always a desert country, was now quite devoid of life.
+On they went, living on roots and such little food as still remained
+to them, to Jericho itself, where they found nothing but a ruin
+haunted by a few starving wretches. Thence they travelled to their own
+village, to discover that, for the most part, this also had been
+burnt. But certain caverns in the hillside behind, which they used as
+store-houses, remained, and undiscovered in them a secret stock of
+corn and wine that gave them food.
+
+Here, then, they camped and set to work to sow the fields which no
+Romans or robbers had been able to destroy, and so lived hardly, but
+unmolested, till at length the first harvest came and with it plenty.
+
+In this dry and wholesome air Marcus recovered rapidly, who by nature
+was very strong. When first his wits returned to him he recognised
+Nehushta, and asked her what had chanced. She told him all she knew,
+and that she believed Miriam to be dead, tidings which caused him to
+fall into a deep melancholy. Meanwhile, the Essenes treated him with
+kindness, but let him understand that he was their prisoner. Nor if he
+had wished it, and they had given him leave to go, could he have left
+them at that time, seeing that the slightest of his hurts proved to be
+the worst, since the spear or sword-cut having penetrated to the joint
+and let out the oil, the wound in his knee would heal only by very
+slow degrees, and for many weeks left him so lame that he could not
+walk without a crutch. So here he sat by the banks of the Jordan,
+mourning the past and well-nigh hopeless for the future.
+
+Thus in solitude, tended by Nehushta, who now had grown very grim and
+old, and by the poor remnant of the Essenes, Marcus passed four or
+five miserable months. As he grew stronger he would limp down to the
+village where his hosts were engaged in rebuilding some of their
+dwellings, and sit in the garden of the house that was once occupied
+by Miriam. Now it was but an overgrown place, yet among the
+pomegranate bushes still stood that shed which she had used as a
+workshop, and in it, lying here and there as they had fallen, some of
+her unfinished marbles, among them one of himself which she began and
+cast aside before she executed that bust which Nero had named divine
+and set him to guard in the Temple at Rome. To Marcus it was a sad
+place, haunted by a thousand memories, yet he loved it because those
+memories were all of Miriam.
+
+Titus, said rumour, having accomplished the utter destruction of
+Jerusalem, had moved his army to Cæsarea or Berytus, where he passed
+the winter season in celebrating games in the amphitheatres. These he
+made splendid by the slaughter of vast numbers of Jewish prisoners,
+who were forced to fight against each other, or, after the cruel Roman
+fashion, exposed to the attacks of ravenous wild beasts. But although
+he thought of doing so, Marcus had no means of communicating with
+Titus, and was still too lame to attempt escape. Could he have found
+any, indeed, to make use of them might have brought destruction upon
+the Essenes, who had treated him kindly and saved his life. Also among
+the Romans it was a disgrace for a soldier, and especially for an
+officer of high rank, to be made prisoner, and he was loth to expose
+his own shame. As Gallus had told Miriam, no Roman should be taken
+alive. So Marcus attempted to do nothing, but waited, sick at heart,
+for whatever fate fortune might send him. Indeed, had he been quite
+sure that Miriam was dead, he, who was disgraced and a captive, would
+have slain himself and followed her. But although none doubted her
+death--except Nehushta--his spirit did not tell him that this was so.
+Thus it came about that Marcus lived on among the Essenes till his
+health and strength came back to him, as it was appointed that he
+should do until the time came for him to act. At length that time
+came.
+
+When Samuel, the Essene, left Tyre, bearing the letter and the ring of
+Miriam, he journeyed to Jerusalem to find the Holy City but a heap of
+ruins, haunted by hyænas and birds of prey that feasted on the
+innumerable dead. Still, faithful to his trust, he strove to discover
+that entrance to the caverns of which Miriam had told him, and to this
+end hovered day by day upon the north side of the city near to the old
+Damascus Gate. The hole he could not find, for there were thousands of
+stones behind which jackals had burrowed, and how was he to know which
+of these openings led to caverns, nor were there any left to direct
+him. Still, Samuel searched and waited in the hope that one day an
+Essene might appear who would guide him to the hiding-place of the
+brethren. But no Essene appeared, for the good reason that they had
+fled already. In the end he was seized by a patrol of Roman soldiers
+who had observed him hovering about the place and questioned him very
+strictly as to his business. He replied that it was to gather herbs
+for food, whereon their officer said that they would find him food and
+with it some useful work. So they took him and pressed him into a gang
+of captives who were engaged in pulling down the walls, that Jerusalem
+might nevermore become a fortified city. In this gang he was forced to
+labour for over four months, receiving only his daily bread in
+payment, and with it many blows and hard words, until at last he found
+an opportunity to make his escape.
+
+Now among his fellow-slaves was a man whose brother belonged to the
+Order of the Essenes, and from him he learned that they had gone back
+to Jordan. So thither Samuel started, having Miriam's ring still
+hidden safely about his person. Reaching the place without further
+accident he declared himself to the Essenes, who received him with
+joy, which was not to be wondered at, since he was able to tell them
+that Miriam, whom they named their Queen and believed to be dead, was
+still alive. He asked them if they had a Roman prisoner called Marcus
+hidden away among them, and when they answered that this was so, said
+that he had a message from Miriam which he was charged to deliver to
+him. Then they led him to the garden where her workshop had been,
+telling him that there he would find the Roman.
+
+Marcus was seated in the garden, basking in the sunshine, and with him
+Nehushta. They were talking of Miriam--indeed, they spoke of little
+else.
+
+"Alas! although I seem to know her yet alive, I fear that she must be
+dead," Marcus was saying. "It is not possible that she could have
+lived through that night of the burning of the Temple."
+
+"It does not seem possible," answered Nehushta, "yet I believe that
+she did live--as in your heart you believe also. I do not think it was
+fated that any Christian should perish in that war, since it has been
+prophesied otherwise."
+
+"Prove it to me, woman, and I should be inclined to become a
+Christian, but of prophecies and such vague talk I am weary."
+
+"You will become a Christian when your heart is touched and not
+before," answered Nehushta sharply. "That light is from within."
+
+As she spoke the bushes parted and they saw the Essene, Samuel,
+standing in front of them.
+
+"Whom do you seek, man?" asked Nehushta, who did not know him.
+
+"I seek the noble Roman, Marcus," he answered, "for whom I have a
+message. Is that he?"
+
+"I am he," said Marcus, "and now, who sent you and what is your
+message?"
+
+"The Queen of the Essenes, whose name is Miriam, sent me," replied the
+man.
+
+Now both of them sprang to their feet.
+
+"What token do you bear?" asked Marcus in a slow, restrained voice,
+"for know, we thought that lady dead."
+
+"This," he answered, and drawing the ring from his robe he handed it
+to him, adding, "Do you acknowledge the token?"
+
+"I acknowledge it. There is no such other ring. Have you aught else?"
+
+"I had a letter, but it is lost. The Roman soldiers robbed me of my
+robe in which it was sewn, and I never saw it more. But the ring I
+saved by hiding it in my mouth while they searched me."
+
+Marcus groaned, but Nehushta said quickly:
+
+"Did she give you no message? Tell us your story and be swift."
+
+So he told them all.
+
+"How long was this ago?" asked Nehushta.
+
+"Nearly five months. For a hundred and twenty days I was kept as a
+slave at Jerusalem, labouring at the levelling of the walls."
+
+"Five months," said Marcus. "Tell me, do you know whether Titus has
+sailed?"
+
+"I heard that he had departed from Alexandria on his road to Rome."
+
+"Miriam will walk in his Triumph, and afterwards be sold as a slave!
+Woman, there is no time to lose," said Marcus.
+
+"None," answered Nehushta; "still, there is time to thank this
+faithful messenger."
+
+"Ay," said Marcus. "Man, what reward do you seek? Whatever it be it
+shall be paid to you who have endured so much. Yes, it shall be paid,
+though here and now I have no money."
+
+"I seek no reward," replied the Essene, "who have but fulfilled my
+promise and done my duty."
+
+"Yet Heaven shall reward you," said Nehushta. "And now let us hence to
+Ithiel."
+
+Back they went swiftly to the caves that were occupied by the Essenes
+during the rebuilding of their houses. In a little cabin that was open
+to the air lay Ithiel. The old man was on his death-bed, for age,
+hardship, and anxiety had done their work with him, so that now he was
+unable to stand, but reclined upon a pallet awaiting his release. To
+him they told their story.
+
+"God is merciful," he said, when he had heard it. "I feared that she
+might be dead, for in the presence of so much desolation, my faith
+grows weak."
+
+"It may be so," answered Marcus, "but your merciful God will allow
+this maiden to be set up in the Forum at Rome and sold to the highest
+bidder. It would have been better that she perished on the gate
+Nicanor."
+
+"Perhaps this same God," answered Ithiel with a faint smile, "will
+deliver her from that fate, as He has delivered her from many others.
+Now what do you seek, my lord Marcus?"
+
+"I seek liberty, which hitherto you have refused to me, Ithiel. I must
+travel to Rome as fast as ships and horses can carry me. I desire to
+be present at that auction of the captives. At least, I am rich and
+can purchase Miriam--unless I am too late."
+
+"Purchase her to be your slave?"
+
+"Nay, to be my wife."
+
+"She will not marry you; you are not a Christian."
+
+"Then, if she asks it, to set her free. Man, would it not be better
+that she should fall into my hands than into those of the first
+passer-by who chances to take a fancy to her face?"
+
+"Yes, I think it is better," answered Ithiel, "though who am I that I
+should judge? Let the Court be summoned and at once. This matter must
+be laid before them. If you should purchase her and she desires it, do
+you promise that you will set her free?"
+
+"I promise it."
+
+Ithiel looked at him strangely and said: "Good, but in the hour of
+temptation, if it should come, see that you do not forget your word."
+
+So the Court was called together, not the full hundred that used to
+sit in the great hall, but a bare score of the survivors of the
+Essenes, and to them the brother, Samuel, repeated his tale. To them
+also Marcus made his petition for freedom, that he might journey to
+Rome with Nehushta, and if it were possible, deliver Miriam from her
+bonds. Now, some of the more timid of the Essenes spoke against the
+release of so valuable a hostage upon the chance of his being able to
+aid Miriam, but Ithiel cried from his litter:
+
+"What! Would you allow our own advantage to prevail against the hope
+that this maiden, who is loved by everyone of us, may be saved? Shame
+upon the thought. Let the Roman go upon his errand, since we cannot."
+
+So in the end they agreed to let him go, and, as he had none, even
+provided money for his faring out of their scanty, secret store,
+trusting that he might find opportunity to repay it in time to come.
+
+That night Marcus and Nehushta bade farewell to Ithiel.
+
+"I am dying," said the old Essene. "Before ever you can set foot in
+Rome the breath will be out of my body, and beneath the desert sand I
+shall lie at peace--who desire peace. Yet, say to Miriam, my niece,
+that my spirit will watch over her spirit, awaiting its coming in a
+land where there are no more wars and tribulations, and that,
+meanwhile, I who love her bid her to be of good cheer and to fear
+nothing."
+
+So they parted from Ithiel and travelled upon horses to Joppa, Marcus
+disguising his name and rank lest some officer among the Romans should
+detain him. Here by good fortune they found a ship sailing for
+Alexandria, and in the port of Alexandria a merchant vessel bound for
+Rhegium, in which they took passage, none asking them who they might
+be.
+
+
+
+Upon the night of the burning of the Temple, Caleb, escaping the
+slaughter, was driven with Simon the Zealot across the bridge into the
+Upper City, which bridge they broke down behind them. Once he tried to
+return, in the mad hope that during the confusion he might reach the
+gate Nicanor and, if she still lived, rescue Miriam. But already the
+Romans held the head of the bridge, and already the Jews were hacking
+at its timbers, so in that endeavour he failed and in his heart made
+sure that Miriam had perished. So bitterly did Caleb mourn, who,
+fierce and wayward as he was by nature, still loved her more than all
+the world besides, that for six days or more he sought death in every
+desperate adventure which came to his hand, and they were many. But
+death fled him, and on the seventh day he had tidings.
+
+A man who was hidden among the ruins of the cloisters managed to
+escape to the Upper City. From him Caleb learned that the woman, who
+was said to have been found upon the roof of the gate Nicanor, had
+been brought before Titus, who gave her over to the charge of a Roman
+captain, by whom she had been taken without the walls. He knew no
+more. The story was slight enough, yet it sufficed for Caleb, who was
+certain that this woman must be Miriam. From that moment he determined
+to abandon the cause of the Jews, which, indeed, was now hopeless, and
+to seek out Miriam, wherever she might be. Yet, search as he would,
+another fifteen days went by before he could find his opportunity.
+
+At length Caleb was placed in charge of a watch upon the wall, and,
+the other members of his company falling asleep from faintness and
+fatigue, contrived in the dark to let himself down by a rope which he
+had secreted, dropping from the end of it into the ditch. In this
+ditch he found many dead bodies, and from one of them, that of a
+peasant who had died but recently, took the clothes and a long winter
+cloak of sheepskins, which he exchanged for his own garments. Then,
+keeping only his sword, which he hid beneath the cloak, he passed the
+Roman pickets in the gloom and fled into the country. When daylight
+came Caleb cut off his beard and trimmed his long hair short. After
+this, meeting a countryman with a load of vegetables which he had
+licence to sell in the Roman camp Caleb bought his store from him for
+a piece of gold, for he was well furnished with money, promising the
+simple man that if he said a word of it he would find him out and kill
+him. Then counterfeiting the speech and actions of a peasant, which
+he, who had been brought up among them down by the banks of Jordan,
+well could do, Caleb marched boldly to the nearest Roman camp and
+offered his wares for sale.
+
+Now this camp was situated outside the gate of Gennat, not far from
+the tower Hippicus. Therefore, it is not strange that although in the
+course of his bargaining he made diligent inquiry as to the fate of
+the girl who had been taken to the gate Nicanor, Caleb could hear
+nothing of her, seeing that she was in a camp situated on the Mount of
+Olives, upon the other side of Jerusalem. Baffled for that day, Caleb
+continued his inquiries on the next, taking a fresh supply of
+vegetables, which he purchased from the same peasant, to another body
+of soldiers camping in the Valley of Himnon. So he went on from day to
+day searching the troops which surrounded the city, and working from
+the Valley of Himnon northwards along the Valley of the Kedron, till
+on the tenth day he came to a little hospital camp pitched on the
+slope of the hill opposite to the ruin which once had been the Golden
+Gate. Here, while proffering his vegetables, he fell into talk with
+the cook who was sent to chaffer with him.
+
+"Ah!" said the cook handling the basket with satisfaction, "it is a
+pity, friend, that you did not bring this stuff here a while ago when
+we wanted it sorely and found it hard to come by in this barren,
+sword-wasted land."
+
+"Why?" asked Caleb carelessly.
+
+"Oh! because of a prisoner we had here, a girl whose sufferings had
+made her sick in mind and body, and whose appetite I never knew how to
+tempt, for she turned from meat, and ever asked for fish, of which, of
+course, we had none, or failing that, for green food and fruits."
+
+"What were her name and story?" asked Caleb.
+
+"As for her name I know it not. We called her Pearl-Maiden because of
+a collar of pearls she wore and because also she was white and
+beautiful as a pearl. Oh! beautiful indeed, and so gentle and sweet,
+even in her sickness, that the roughest brute of a legionary with a
+broken head could not choose but to love her. Much more then, that old
+bear, Gallus, who watched her as though she were his own cub."
+
+"Indeed? And where is this beautiful lady now? I should like to sell
+her something."
+
+"Gone, gone, and left us all mourning."
+
+"Not dead?" said Caleb in a new voice of eager dismay, "Oh! not dead?"
+
+The fat cook looked at him calmly.
+
+"You take a strange interest in our Pearl-Maiden, Cabbage-seller," he
+said. "And, now that I come to think of it, you are a strange-looking
+man for a peasant."
+
+With an effort Caleb recovered his self-command.
+
+"Once I was better off than I am now, friend," he answered. "As you
+know, in this country the wheel of fortune has turned rather quick of
+late."
+
+"Yes, yes, and left many crushed flat behind it."
+
+"The reason why I am interested," went on Caleb, taking no heed, "is
+that I may have lost a fine market for my goods."
+
+"Well, and so you have, friend. Some days ago the Pearl-Maiden
+departed to Tyre in charge of the captain, Gallus, on her way to Rome.
+Perhaps you would wish to follow and sell her your onions there."
+
+"Perhaps I should," answered Caleb. "When you Romans have gone this
+seems likely to become a bad country for gardeners, since owls and
+jackals do not buy fruit, and you will leave no other living thing
+behind you."
+
+"True," answered the cook. "Cæsar knows how to handle a broom and he
+has made a very clean sweep," and he pointed complacently to the
+heaped-up ruins of the Temple before them. "But how much for the whole
+basket full?"
+
+"Take them, friend," said Caleb, "and sell them to your mess for the
+best price that you can get. You need not mention that you paid
+nothing."
+
+"Oh! no, I won't mention it. Good morning, Mr. Cabbage-grower, good
+morning."
+
+Then he stood still watching as Caleb vanished quickly among the great
+boles of the olive trees. "What can stir a Jew so much," he reflected
+to himself, "as to make him give something for nothing, and especially
+to a Roman? Perhaps he is Pearl-Maiden's brother. No, that can't be
+from his eyes--her lover more likely. Well, it is no affair of mine,
+and although he never grew them, the vegetables are good and fresh."
+
+
+
+That evening when Caleb, still disguised as a peasant, was travelling
+through the growing twilight across the hills that bordered the road
+to Tyre, he heard a mighty wailing rise from Jerusalem and knew that
+it was the death-cry of his people. Now, everywhere above such
+portions of the beleaguered city as remained standing, shot up tall
+spires and wreaths of flame. Titus had forced the walls, and thousands
+upon thousands of Jews were perishing beneath the swords of his
+soldiers, or in the fires of their burning homes. Still, some ninety
+thousand were left alive, to be driven like cattle into the Court of
+Women. Here more than ten thousand died of starvation, while some were
+set aside to grace the Triumph, some to be slaughtered in the
+amphitheatres at Cæsarea and Berytus, but the most were transported to
+Egypt, there, until they died, to labour in the desert mines. Thus was
+the last desolation accomplished and the prophecy fulfilled: "And the
+Lord shall bring thee into Egypt again with ships . . . and there ye
+shall sell yourselves unto your enemies for bondmen and for bondwomen,
+and no man shall buy you." Thus did "Ephraim return to Egypt," whence
+he came forth to sojourn in the Promised Land until the cup of his sin
+was full. Now once more that land was a desert without inhabitants;
+all its pleasant places were waste; all its fenced cities destroyed,
+and over their ruins and the bones of their children flew Cæsar's
+eagles. The war was ended, there was peace in Judæa. /Solitudinem
+faciunt pacem appellant!/
+
+
+
+When Caleb reached Tyre, by the last light of the setting sun he saw a
+white-sailed galley beating her way out to sea. Entering the city, he
+inquired who went in the galley and was told Gallus, a Roman captain,
+in charge of a number of sick and wounded men, many of the treasures
+of the Temple, and a beautiful girl, who was said to be the grand-
+daughter of Benoni of that town.
+
+Then knowing that he was too late, Caleb groaned in bitterness of
+spirit. Presently, however, he took thought. Now, Caleb was wise in
+his generation, for at the beginning of this long war he had sold all
+his land and houses for gold and jewels, which, to a very great value,
+he had left hidden in Tyre in the house of a man he trusted, an old
+servant of his father's. To this store he had added from time to time
+out of the proceeds of plunder, of trading, and of the ransom of a
+rich Roman knight who was his captive, so that now his wealth was
+great. Going to the man's house, Caleb claimed and packed this
+treasure in bales of Syrian carpets to resemble merchandise.
+
+Then the peasant who had travelled into Tyre upon business about a
+mule, was seen no more, but in place of him appeared Demetrius, the
+Egyptian merchant, who bought largely, though always at night, of the
+merchandise of Tyre, and sailed with it by the first ship to
+Alexandria. Here this merchant bought much more goods, such as would
+find a ready sale in the Roman market, enough to fill the half of a
+galley, indeed, which lay in the harbour near the Pharos lading for
+Syracuse and Rhegium.
+
+At length the galley sailed, meaning to make Crete, but was caught by
+a winter storm and driven to Paphos in Cyprus, where, being afraid to
+attempt the seas again, let the merchant, Demetrius, do what he would
+to urge them forward, the captain and crew of the galley determined to
+winter. So they beached her in the harbour and went up to the great
+temple, rejoicing to pay their vows and offer gifts to Venus, who had
+delivered them from the fury of the seas, that they might swell the
+number of her votaries.
+
+But although he accompanied them, since otherwise they might have
+suspected that he was a Jew, Demetrius, who sought another goddess,
+cursed Venus in his heart, knowing that had it not been for her
+delights the sailors would have risked the weather. Still, there was
+no help for it and no other ship by which he could sail, so here he
+abode for more than three months, spending his time in Curium, Amathos
+and Salamis, trading among the rich natives of Cyprus, out of whom he
+made a large profit, and adding wine, and copper from Tamasus to his
+other merchandise, as much as there was room for on the ship.
+
+In the end after the great spring festival, for the captain said that
+it would not be fortunate to leave until this had been celebrated,
+they set sail and came by way of Rhodes to the Island of Crete, and
+thence touching at Cythera to Syracuse in Sicily, and so at last to
+Rhegium. Here the merchant, Demetrius, transhipped his goods into a
+vessel that was sailing to the port of Centum Cellæ, and having
+reached that place hired transport to convey them to Rome, nearly
+forty miles away.
+
+
+
+                             CHAPTER XXI
+
+                    THE CÆSARS AND PRINCE DOMITIAN
+
+When the captain Gallus reached the outskirts of Rome he halted, for
+he did not desire that Miriam should be led through the streets in the
+daytime, and thus cause questions to be asked concerning her. Also he
+sent on a messenger bidding the man find out his wife, Julia, if she
+were still alive, since of this Gallus, who had not seen her for
+several years, could tell nothing, and inform her that he would be
+with her shortly, bringing with him a maiden who had been placed in
+his charge by Titus. Before nightfall, the messenger returned, and
+with him Julia herself, a woman past middle-age, but, although grey-
+haired, still handsome and stately.
+
+Miriam saw their meeting, which was a touching sight, since this
+childless couple who had been married for almost thirty years, had now
+been separated for a long time. Moreover, a rumour had reached Julia
+that her husband was not only wounded, but dead, wherefore her joy and
+thankfulness at his coming were even greater than they would otherwise
+have been. One thing, however, Miriam noted, that whereas her friend
+and benefactor, Gallus, held up his hands and thanked the gods that he
+found his wife living and well, Julia on her part said:
+
+"Aye, I thank God," touching her breast with her fingers as she spoke
+the words.
+
+Presently the matron seemed to notice her, and, looking at her with a
+doubtful eye, asked:
+
+"How comes it, husband, that you are in charge of this captive Jewess,
+if Jewess she be who is so fair?"
+
+"By the orders of Titus Cæsar, wife," he answered, "to whom she must
+be delivered on his arrival. She was condemned to perish on the gate
+Nicanor as a traitress to the Jews and a Nazarene."
+
+Julia started and looked at the girl over her shoulder.
+
+"Are you of that faith, daughter?" she asked in a changed voice,
+crossing her hands upon her breast as though by chance.
+
+"I am, mother," answered Miriam, repeating the sign.
+
+"Well, well, husband," said Julia, "the maid's tale can wait. Whether
+she was a traitress to the Jews, or a follower of Christus, is not our
+affair. At least she is in your charge, and therefore welcome to me,"
+and stepping to where Miriam stood with bowed head she kissed her on
+the forehead, saying aloud:
+
+"I greet you, daughter, who are so sweet to see and in misfortune,"
+adding beneath her breath, "in the Name you know."
+
+Then Miriam was sure that she had fallen into the hands of a woman who
+was a Christian, and was thankful in her heart, for while the Cæsars
+sat upon the Roman throne the Christians of every clime, rank and race
+were one great family.
+
+That evening, so soon as the darkness fell, they entered Rome by the
+Appian Gate. Here they separated, Gallus leading his soldiers to
+convoy the treasure to the safe keeping of that officer who was
+appointed to receive it, and afterwards to the camp prepared for them,
+while Julia, with Miriam and an escort of two men only, departed to
+her own home, a small dwelling in a clean but narrow and crowded
+street that overhung the Tiber between the Pons Ælius and the Porta
+Flamina. At the door of the house Julia dismissed the soldiers,
+saying:
+
+"Go without fear, and take witness that I am bond for the safety of
+this captive."
+
+So the men went gladly enough, for they desired to rest after the
+toils of their long journey, and the door of the house having been
+opened by a servant and locked again behind them, Julia led Miriam
+across a little court to the sitting-room that lay beyond. Hanging
+lamps of bronze burned in the room, and by their light Miriam saw that
+it was very clean and well, though not richly, furnished.
+
+"This is my own house, daughter," she explained, "which my father left
+me, where I have dwelt during all these weary years that my husband
+has been absent in the wars of the East. It is a humble place, but you
+will find peace and safety in it, and, I trust, comfort. Poor child,"
+she added in a gentle voice, "I who am also a Christian, though as yet
+of this my husband knows nothing, welcome you in the Name of the
+Lord."
+
+"In the Name of our Lord, I thank you," answered Miriam, "who am but a
+friendless slave."
+
+"Such find friends," said Julia, "and if you will suffer it I think
+that I shall be one of them." Then at a sign from the elder woman they
+knelt down, and in silence each of them put up her prayer of
+thanksgiving, the wife because her husband had come back to her safe,
+the maiden because she had been led to a house ruled by a woman of her
+own faith.
+
+After this they ate, a plain meal but well cooked and served. When it
+was done Julia conducted Miriam to the little whitewashed chamber
+which had been prepared for her. It was lighted from the court by a
+lattice set high in the wall, and, like all the house, very clean and
+sweet, with a floor of white marble.
+
+"Once another maid slept here," said Julia with a sigh, glancing at
+the white bed in the corner.
+
+"Yes," said Miriam, "she was named Flavia, was she not, your only
+child? Nay, do not be astonished. I have heard so much of her that I
+seem to have known her well, who can be known no more--here."
+
+"Did Gallus tell you?" asked Julia. "He used rarely to speak of her."
+
+Miriam nodded. "Gallus told me. You see he was very good to me and we
+became friends. For all that he has done, may Heaven bless him, who,
+although he seems rough, has so kind a heart."
+
+"Yes, may Heaven bless all of us, living and dead," answered Julia.
+Then she kissed Miriam and left her to her rest.
+
+When Miriam came out of her bedchamber on the following morning, she
+found Gallus clad in his body armour, now new cleaned, though dinted
+with many a blow, standing in the court and watching the water which
+squirted from a leaden pipe to fall into a little basin.
+
+"Greeting, daughter," he said, looking up. "I trust that you have
+rested well beneath my roof who have sojourned so long in tents."
+
+"Very well," she answered, adding, "If I might ask it, why do you wear
+your mail here in peaceful Rome?"
+
+"Because I am summoned to have an audience of Cæsar, now within an
+hour."
+
+"Is Titus come, then?" she asked hurriedly.
+
+"Nay, nay, not Titus Cæsar, but Vespasian Cæsar, his father, to whom I
+must make report of all that was passing in Judæa when we left, of the
+treasure that I brought with me and--of yourself."
+
+"Oh! Gallus," said Miriam, "will he take me away from your charge?"
+
+"I know not. I hope not. But who can say? It is as his fancy may move
+him. But if he listens to me I swear that you shall stay here for
+ever; be sure of that."
+
+Then he went, leaning on a spear shaft, for the wound in his leg had
+caused it to shrink so much that he could never hope to be sound
+again.
+
+Three hours later he returned to find the two women waiting for him
+anxiously enough. Julia glanced at his face as he came through the
+door of the street wall into the vestibulum or courtyard where they
+were waiting.
+
+"Have no fear," she said. "When Gallus looks so solemn he brings good
+tidings, for if they are bad he smiles and makes light of them," and
+advancing she took him by the hand and led him past the porter's room
+into the atrium.
+
+"What news, husband?" she asked when the door was shut behind them so
+that none might overhear their talk.
+
+"Well," he answered, "first, my fighting days are over, since I am
+discharged the army, the physicians declaring that my leg will never
+be well again. Wife, why do you not weep?"
+
+"Because I rejoice," answered Julia calmly. "Thirty years of war and
+bloodshed are enough for any man. You have done your work. It is time
+that you should rest who have been spared so long, and at least I have
+saved while you were away, and there will be food to fill our mouths."
+
+"Yes, yes, wife, and as it happens, more than you think, since
+Vespasian, being gracious and pleased with my report, has granted me
+half-pay for all my life, to say nothing of a gratuity and a share of
+the spoil, whatever that may bring. Still I grieve, who can never hope
+to lift spear more."
+
+"Grieve not, for thus I would have had it, Gallus. But what of this
+maid?"
+
+"Well, I made my report about her, as I was bound to do, and at first
+Domitian, Cæsar's son, being curious to see her, prompted Vespasian to
+order that she should be brought to the palace. Almost Cæsar spoke the
+word, then a thought seemed to strike him and he was silent, whereon I
+said that she had been very sick and still needed care and nursing,
+and that if it was his will, my wife could tend her until such time as
+Titus Cæsar, whose spoil she was, might arrive. Again Domitian
+interrupted, but Vespasian answered, 'The Jewish maid is not your
+slave, Domitian, or my slave. She is the slave of your brother, Titus.
+Let her bide with this worthy officer until Titus comes, he being
+answerable in his person and his goods that she shall then be produced
+before him, she or proof of her death.' Then, waving his hand to show
+that the matter was done with, he went on to speak of other things,
+demanding details of the capture of the Temple and comparing my list
+of the vessels and other gear with that which was furnished by the
+treasurer, into whose charge I handed them yesternight. So, Maid
+Miriam, till Titus comes you are safe."
+
+"Yes," answered Miriam with a sigh, "till Titus comes. But after that
+--what?"
+
+"The gods alone know," he said impatiently. "Meanwhile, since my head
+is on it, I must ask your word of you that you will attempt no
+flight."
+
+"I give it, Gallus," she answered smiling, "who would die rather than
+bring evil on you or yours. Also, whither should I fly?"
+
+"I know not. But you Christians find many friends: the rats themselves
+have fewer hiding-places. Still, I trust you, and henceforth you are
+free, till Titus comes."
+
+"Aye," repeated Miriam, "--till Titus comes."
+
+
+
+So for hard upon six months, till midsummer, indeed, Miriam dwelt in
+the house of Gallus and his wife, Julia. She was not happy, although
+to them she became as a daughter. Who could be happy even in the
+sunshine of a peaceful present, that walked her world between two such
+banks of shadow? Behind was the shadow of the terrible past; in front,
+black and forbidding, rose the shadow of the future, which might be
+yet more terrible, the future when she would be the slave of some man
+unknown. Sometimes walking with Julia, humbly dressed and mingling
+with the crowd, her head-dress arranged to hide her face as much as
+might be, she saw the rich lords of Rome go by in chariots, on
+horseback, in litters, all sorts and conditions of them, fat, proud
+men with bold eyes; hard-faced statesmen or lawyers; war-worn, cruel-
+looking captains; dissolute youths with foppish dress and perfumed
+hair, and shuddering, wondered whether she was appointed to any one of
+these. Or was it, perhaps, to that rich and greasy tradesman, or to
+yon low-born freedman with a cunning leer? She knew not, God alone
+knew, and in Him must be her trust.
+
+Once as Miriam was walking thus, gorgeously clad slaves armed with
+rods of office appeared, bursting a way through the crowded streets to
+an accompaniment of oaths and blows. After these came lictors bearing
+the fasces on their shoulders; then a splendid chariot drawn by white
+horses, and driven by a curled and scented charioteer. In it, that he
+might be the better seen, stood a young man, tall, ruddy-faced, and
+clad in royal attire, who looked downward as though from bashfulness,
+but all the while scanned the crowd out of the corners of his dim blue
+eyes shaded by lids devoid of lashes. For a moment Miriam felt those
+eyes rest upon her, and knew that she was the subject of some jest
+which their owner addressed to the exquisite charioteer, causing him
+to laugh. Then a horror of that man took hold of her, and when he had
+gone by, bowing in answer to the shouts of the people, who, as it
+seemed to her, cheered from fear and not with joy, she asked Julia who
+he might be.
+
+"Who but Domitian," she answered, "the son of one Cæsar and the
+brother of another, who hates both and would like to wear their crown.
+He is an evil man, and if he should chance to cross your path, beware
+of him, Miriam."
+
+Miriam shuddered and said:
+
+"As well, mother, might you bid the mouse that is caught abroad to
+beware of the cat it meets at night."
+
+"Some mice find holes that cats cannot pass," answered Julia with
+meaning as they turned their faces homeward.
+
+During all this time, although Gallus made diligent inquiry among the
+soldiers who arrived from Judæa, Miriam could hear nothing of Marcus,
+so that at last she came to believe that he must be dead, and with him
+the beloved and faithful Nehushta, and to hope that if this were so
+she also might be taken. Still amongst all this trouble she had one
+great comfort. Under the mild rule of Vespasian, although their
+meeting-places were known, the Christians had peace for a while.
+Therefore, in company with Julia and many others of the brotherhood,
+she was able to visit the catacombs on the Appian Way by night, and
+there in those dismal, endless tombs to offer prayer and receive the
+ministrations of the Church. The great Apostles, St. Peter and St.
+Paul, had suffered martyrdom, indeed, but they had left many teachers
+behind them, and the chief of these soon grew to know and love the
+poor Jewish captive who was doomed to slavery. Therefore here also she
+found friends and consolation of spirit.
+
+In time Gallus came to learn that his wife was also of the Faith, and
+for a while this knowledge seemed to cast him down. In the end,
+however, he shrugged his shoulders and said that she was certainly of
+an age to judge for herself and that he trusted no harm might come of
+it. Indeed, when the principles of the Christian hope were explained
+to him, he listened to them eagerly enough, who had lost his only
+child, and until now had never heard this strange story of
+resurrection and eternal life. Still, although he listened, and even
+from time to time was present when the brethren prayed, he would not
+be baptised, who said that he was too sunk in years to throw incense
+on a new altar.
+
+At length Titus came, the Senate, which long before his arrival had
+decreed him a Triumph, meeting him outside the walls, and there, after
+some ancient formalities communicating to him their decision.
+Moreover, it was arranged that Vespasian, his father, should share in
+this Triumph, because of the great deeds which he had done in Egypt,
+so that it was said everywhere that this would be the most splendid
+ceremony which Rome had ever seen. After this Titus passed to his
+palace and there lived privately for several weeks, resting while the
+preparations for the great event went forward.
+
+One morning early Gallus was summoned to the palace, whence he
+returned rubbing his hands and trying to look pleased, with him, as
+Julia had said, a sure sign of evil tidings.
+
+"What is it, husband?" she asked.
+
+"Oh! nothing, nothing," he answered, "except that our Pearl-Maiden
+here must accompany me after the mid-day meal into the august
+presences of Vespasian and Titus. The Cæsars wish to see her, that
+they may decide where she is to walk in the procession. If she is held
+to be beautiful enough, they will grant to her a place of honour, by
+herself. Do you hear that, wife--by herself, not far in front of the
+very chariot of Titus? As for the dress that she will wear," he went
+on nervously, since neither of his auditors seemed delighted with this
+news, "it is to be splendid, quite splendid, all of the purest white
+silk with little discs of silver sewn about it, and a representation
+of the Gate Nicanor worked in gold thread upon the breast of the
+robe."
+
+At this tidings Miriam broke down and began to weep.
+
+"Dry your tears, girl," he said roughly, although the thickness of his
+voice suggested that water and his own eyes were not far apart. "What
+must be, must be, and now is the time for that God you worship to show
+you some mark of favour. Surely, He should do so, seeing how long and
+how often you pray to Him in burrows that a jackal would turn from."
+
+"I think He will," answered Miriam, ceasing her sobs with a bold up-
+lifting of her soul towards the light of perfect faith.
+
+"I am sure He will," added Julia, gently stroking Miriam's dark and
+curling hair.
+
+"Then," broke in Gallus, driving the point to its logical conclusion,
+"what have you to fear? A long, hot walk through the shouting
+populace, who will do no harm to one so lovely, and after that,
+whatever good fate your God may choose for you. Come, let us eat, that
+you may look your best when you appear before the Cæsars."
+
+"I would rather look my worst," said Miriam, bethinking her of
+Domitian and his bleared eyes. Still, to please Gallus, she tried to
+eat, and afterwards, accompanied by him and by Julia, was carried in a
+closed litter to the palace.
+
+Too soon she was there, arriving a little before them, and was helped
+from the litter by slaves wearing the Imperial livery. Now she found
+herself alone in a great marble court filled with officers and nobles
+awaiting audience.
+
+"That is the Pearl-Maiden," said one of them, whereon they all crowded
+around her, criticising her aloud in their idle curiosity.
+
+"Too short," said one. "Too thin," said another. "Too small in the
+foot for her ankle," said a third. "Fools," broke in a fourth, a young
+man with a fine figure and dark rings round his eyes, "what is the use
+of trying to cheapen this piece of goods thus in the eyes of the
+experienced? I say that this Pearl-Maiden is as perfect as those
+pearls about her own neck; on a small scale, perhaps, but quite
+perfect, and you will admit that I ought to know."
+
+"Lucius says that she is perfect," remarked one of them in a tone of
+acquiescence, as though that verdict settled the matter.
+
+"Yes," went on the critical Lucius, "now, to take one thing only, a
+point so often overlooked. Observe how fresh and firm her flesh is.
+When I press it thus," and he suited the action to the word, "as I
+thought, my finger leaves scarcely any mark."
+
+"But my arm does," said a gruff voice beside him, and next moment this
+scented judge of human beings received the point of the elbow of
+Gallus between the eyes just where the nose is set into the forehead.
+With such force and skill was the blow directed that next instant the
+critic was sprawling on his back upon the pavement, the blood gushing
+from his nostrils. Now most of them laughed, but some murmured, while
+Gallus said:
+
+"Way there, friends, way there! I am charged to deliver this lady to
+the Cæsars and to certify that while she was in my care no man has so
+much as laid a finger on her. Way there, I pray you! And as for that
+whimpering puppy on his back, if he wishes it, he knows where to find
+Gallus. My sword will mark him worse than my elbow, if he wants blood-
+letting, that I swear."
+
+Now with jests and excuses they fell back one and all. There were few
+of them who did not know that, lame as he might be now, old Gallus was
+still the fiercest and most dreaded swordsman of his legion. Indeed he
+was commonly reported to have slain eighteen men in single combat, and
+when young even to have faced the most celebrated gladiator of the day
+for sport, or to win a private bet, and given him life as he lay at
+his mercy.
+
+So they passed on through long halls guarded by soldiers, till at
+length they came to a wide passage closed with splendid curtains,
+where the officer on duty asked them their business. Gallus told him
+and he vanished through the curtains, whence he returned presently,
+beckoning them to advance. They followed him down a corridor set with
+busts of departed emperors and empresses, to find themselves in a
+round marble chamber, very cool and lighted from above. In this
+chamber sat and stood three men: Vespasian, whom they knew by his
+strong, quiet face and grizzled hair; Titus, his son, "the darling of
+mankind," thin, active, and æsthetic-looking, with eyes that were not
+unkindly, a sarcastic smile playing about the corners of his mouth;
+and Domitian, his brother, who has already been described, a man
+taller than either of them by half a head, and more gorgeously
+attired. In front of the august three was a master of ceremonies clad
+in a dark-coloured robe, who was showing them drawings of various
+sections of the triumphal procession, and taking their orders as to
+such alterations as they wished.
+
+Also there were present, a treasurer, some officers and two or three
+of the intimate friends of Titus.
+
+Vespasian looked up.
+
+"Greeting, worthy Gallus," he said in the friendly, open voice of one
+who has spent his life in camps, "and to your wife, Julia, greeting
+also. So that is the Pearl-Maiden of whom we have heard so much talk.
+Well, I do not pretend to be a judge of beauty, still I say that this
+Jewish captive does not belie her name. Titus, do you recognise her?"
+
+"In truth, no, father. When last I saw her she was a sooty, withered
+little thing whom Gallus yonder carried in his great arms, as a child
+might carry a large doll that he had rescued from the fire. Yes, I
+agree that she is beautiful and worthy of a very good place in the
+procession. Also she should fetch a large price afterwards, for that
+necklace of pearls goes with her--make a note of this, Scribe--and the
+reversion to considerable property in Tyre and elsewhere. This, by
+special favour, she will be allowed to inherit from her grandfather,
+the old rabbi, Benoni, one of the Sanhedrim, who perished in the
+burning of the Temple."
+
+"How can a slave inherit property, son?" asked Vespasian, raising his
+eyebrows.
+
+"I don't know," answered Titus with a laugh. "Perhaps Domitian can
+tell you. He says that he has studied law. But so I have decreed."
+
+"A slave," interrupted Domitian wisely, "has no rights and can hold no
+property, but the Cæsar of the East"--here he sneered--"can declare
+that certain lands and goods will pass to the highest bidder with the
+person of the slave, and this, Vespasian Cæsar, my father, is what I
+understand Titus Cæsar, my brother, has thought it good to do in the
+present instance."
+
+"Yes," said Titus in a quiet voice, though his face flushed, "that,
+Domitian, is what I have thought it good to do. In such a matter is
+not my will enough?"
+
+"Conqueror of the East," replied Domitian, "Thrower-down of the
+mountain stronghold called Jerusalem, to which the topless towers of
+Ilium were as nothing, and Exterminator of a large number of misguided
+fanatics, in what matter is not your will enough? Yet a boon, O Cæsar.
+As you are great, be generous," and with a mocking gesture he bowed
+the knee to Titus.
+
+"What boon do you seek of me, brother, who know that all I have is,
+or," he added slowly, "will be--yours?"
+
+"One that is already granted by your precious words, Titus. Of all you
+have, which is much, I seek only this Pearl-Maiden, who has taken my
+fancy. The girl only, not her property in Tyre, wherever that may be,
+which you can keep for yourself."
+
+Vespasian looked up, but before he could speak, Titus answered
+quickly:
+
+"I said, Domitian, 'all I have.' This maid I have not, therefore the
+words do not apply. I have decreed that the proceeds of the sale of
+these captives is to be divided equally between the wounded soldiers
+and the poor of Rome. Therefore she is their property, not mine. I
+will not rob them."
+
+"Virtuous man! No wonder that the legions love him who cannot withdraw
+one lot from a sale of thousands, even to please an only brother,"
+soliloquised Domitian.
+
+"If you wish for the maid," went on Titus, taking no heed of the
+insult, "the markets are open--buy her. It is my last word."
+
+Suddenly Domitian grew angry, the false modesty left his face, his
+tall form straightened itself, and he stared round with his blear,
+evil-looking eyes.
+
+"I appeal," he shouted, "I appeal from Cæsar the Small to Cæsar the
+Great, from the murderer of a brave barbarian tribe to the conqueror
+of the world. O Cæsar, Titus here declared that all he has is mine.
+Yet when I ask him for the gift of one captive girl he refuses me.
+Command, I pray you, that he should keep his word."
+
+Now the officers and the secretaries looked up, for of a sudden this
+small matter had become very important. For long the quarrel between
+Titus and his jealous brother had smouldered, now over the petty
+question of a captive it had broken into flame.
+
+The face of Titus grew hard and stern as that of some statue of the
+offended Jove.
+
+"Command, I pray you, father," he said, "that my brother should cease
+to offer insult to me. Command also that he should cease to question
+my will and my authority in matters great or small that are within my
+rule. Since you are appealed to as Cæsar, as Cæsar judge, not of this
+thing only but of all, for there is much between him and me that needs
+to be made plain."
+
+Vespasian looked round him uneasily, but seeing no escape and that
+beneath the quarrel lay issues which were deep and wide, he spoke out
+in his brave, simple-minded fashion.
+
+"Sons," he said, "seeing that there are but two of you who together,
+or one after the other, must inherit the world, it is an evil-omened
+thing that you should quarrel thus, since on the chances of your
+enmity may hang your own fates and the fates of peoples. Be
+reconciled, I pray you. Is there not enough for both? As for the
+matter in hand--this is my judgment. With all the spoils of Judæa,
+this fair maid is the property of Titus. Titus, whose boast it is that
+he does not go back upon his word, has decreed that she shall be sold
+and her price divided between the sick soldiers and the poor.
+Therefore she is no longer his to give away, even to his brother. With
+Titus I say--if you desire the girl, Domitian, bid your agent buy her
+in the market."
+
+"Aye, I will buy her," snarled Domitian, "but this I swear, that soon
+or late Titus shall pay the price and one that he will be loth to
+give." Then followed by his secretary and an officer, he turned and
+left the audience hall.
+
+"What does he mean?" asked Vespasian, looking after him with anxious
+eyes.
+
+"He means that----" and Titus checked himself. "Well, time and my
+destiny will show the world what he means. So be it. As for you,
+Pearl-Maiden, who, though you know it not, have cost Cæsar so dear,
+well, you are fairer than I thought, and shall have the best of places
+in the pageant. Yet, for your sake, I pray that one may be found who,
+when you come to the market-place, may outbid Domitian," and he waved
+his hand to show that the audience was at an end.
+
+
+
+                             CHAPTER XXII
+
+                             THE TRIUMPH
+
+Another week went by and the eve of the Triumph was at hand. On the
+afternoon before the great day sewing-women had come to the house of
+Gallus, bringing with them the robe that Miriam must wear. As had been
+promised, it was splendid, of white silk covered with silver discs and
+having the picture of the gate Nicanor fashioned on the breast, but
+cut so low that it shamed Miriam to put it on.
+
+"It is naught, it is naught," said Julia. "The designer has made it
+thus that the multitude may see those pearls from which you take your
+name." But to herself she thought: "Oh! monstrous age, and monstrous
+men, whose eyes can delight in the disgrace of a poor unfriended
+maiden. Surely the cup of iniquity of my people is full, and they
+shall drink it to the dregs!"
+
+That same afternoon also came an assistant of the officer, who was
+called the Marshal, with orders to Gallus as to when and where he was
+to deliver over his charge upon the morrow. With him he brought a
+packet, which, when opened, proved to contain a splendid golden
+girdle, fashioned to the likeness of a fetter. The clasp was an
+amethyst, and round it were cut these words: "The gift of Domitian to
+her who to-morrow shall be his."
+
+Miriam threw the thing from her as though it were a snake.
+
+"I will not wear it," she said. "I say that I will not wear it; at
+least to-day I am my own," while Julia groaned and Gallus cursed
+beneath his breath.
+
+Knowing her sore plight, that evening there came to visit her one of
+the elders of the Christian Church in Rome, a bishop named Cyril, who
+had been the friend and disciple of the Apostle Peter. To him the poor
+girl poured out all the agony of her heart.
+
+"Oh! my father, my father in Christ," she said, "I swear to you that
+were I not of our holy faith, rather than endure this shame I would
+slay myself to-night! Other dangers have I passed, but they have been
+of the body alone, whereas this----. Pity me and tell me, you in whose
+ear God speaks, tell me, what must I do?"
+
+"Daughter," answered the grave and gentle man, "you must trust in God.
+Did He not save you in the house at Tyre? Did He not save you in the
+streets of Jerusalem? Did He not save you on the gate Nicanor?"
+
+"He did," answered Miriam.
+
+"Aye, daughter, and so shall He save you in the slave-market of Rome.
+I have a message for your ear, and it is that no shame shall come near
+to you. Tread your path, drink your cup, and fear nothing, for the
+Lord shall send His angel to protect you until such time as it pleases
+Him to take you to Himself."
+
+Miriam looked at him, and as she looked peace fell upon her soul and
+shone in her soft eyes.
+
+"I hear the word of the Lord spoken through the mouth of His
+messenger," she said, "and henceforth I will strive to fear nothing,
+no, not even Domitian."
+
+"Least of all Domitian, daughter, that son of Satan, whom Satan shall
+pay in his own coin."
+
+Then going to the door he summoned Julia, and while Gallus watched
+without, the two of them prayed long and earnestly with Miriam. When
+their prayer was finished the bishop rose, blessed her, and bade her
+farewell.
+
+"I leave you, daughter," he said, "but though you see him not, another
+takes my place. Do you believe?"
+
+"I have said that I believe," murmured Miriam.
+
+Indeed, in those days when men still lived who had seen the Christ and
+His voice still echoed through the world, to the strong faith of His
+followers, it was not hard to credit that His angel did descend to
+earth to protect and save at their Master's bidding.
+
+So Cyril, the bishop, went, and that night from many a catacomb
+prayers rose up to Heaven for Miriam in her peril. That night also she
+slept peacefully.
+
+Two hours before the dawn, Julia awoke her and arrayed her in the
+glittering, hateful garments. When all was ready, with tears she bade
+her farewell.
+
+"Child, child," she said, "you have become to me as my own daughter
+was, and now I know not how and when we shall meet again."
+
+"Perhaps sooner than you think," Miriam answered. "But if not, if,
+indeed, I speak to you for the last time, why, then, my blessings on
+you who have played a mother's part to a helpless maid that was no kin
+of yours. Yes, and on you Gallus also, who have kept me safe through
+so many dangers."
+
+"And who hopes, dear one, to keep you safe through many more. Since I
+may not swear by the gods before you, I swear it by the Eagles that
+Domitian will do well to have a care how he deals by you. To him I owe
+no fealty and, as has been proved before to-day, the sword of
+vengeance can reach the heart of princes."
+
+"Aye, Gallus," said Miriam gently, "but let it not be your sword, nor,
+I trust, shall you need to think of vengeance."
+
+Then the litter was brought into the courtyard, with the guards that
+were sent to accompany it, and they started for the gathering-place
+beyond the Triumphal Way. Dark though it still was, all Rome was
+astir. On every side shone torches, from every house and street rose
+the murmur of voices, for the mighty city made herself ready to
+celebrate the greatest festival which her inhabitants had seen. Even
+now at times the press was so dense that the soldiers were obliged to
+force a way through the crowd, which poured outwards to find good
+places along the line of the Triumph, or to take up their station on
+stands of timber, and in houses they had hired, whose roofs, balconies
+and windows commanded the path of the pageant.
+
+They crossed the Tiber. This Miriam knew by the roar of the water
+beneath, and because the crush upon the narrow bridge was so great.
+Thence she was borne along through country comparatively open, to the
+gateways of some large building, where she was ordered to dismount
+from the litter. Here officers were waiting who took charge of her,
+giving to Gallus a written receipt for her person. Then, either
+because he would not trust himself to bid her farewell, or because he
+did not think it wise to do so in the presence of the officers, Gallus
+turned and left her without a word.
+
+"Come on, girl," said a man, but a secretary, looking up from his
+tablets, called to him:
+
+"Gently there with that lot, or you will hear about it. She is Pearl-
+Maiden, the captive who made the quarrel between the Cæsars and
+Domitian, of which all Rome is talking. Gently, I tell you, gently,
+for many free princesses are worth less to-day."
+
+Hearing this, the man bowed to Miriam, almost with reverence, and
+begged her to follow him to a place that had been set apart for her.
+She obeyed, passing through a great number of people, of whom all she
+could see in the gloom of the breaking dawn was that, like herself,
+they were captives, to a little chamber where she was left alone
+watching the light grow through the lattice, and listening to the hum
+of voices that rose without, mingled now and again with sobs and wails
+of grief. Presently the door opened and a servant entered with bread
+on a platter and milk in an earthenware vessel. These she took
+thankfully, knowing that she would need food to support her during the
+long day, but scarcely had she begun to eat when a slave appeared clad
+in the imperial livery, and bearing a tray of luxurious meats served
+in silver vessels.
+
+"Pearl-Maiden," he said, "my master, Domitian, sends you greeting and
+this present. The vessels are your own, and will be kept for you, but
+he bids me add, that to-night you shall sup off dishes of gold."
+
+Miriam made no answer, though one rose to her lips; but after the man
+had departed, with her foot she overset the tray so that the silver
+vases fell clattering to the floor, where the savory meats were
+spilled. Then she went on eating the bread and milk till her hunger
+was satisfied.
+
+Scarcely had she finished her meal, when an officer entered the cell
+and led her out into a great square, where she was marshalled amongst
+many other prisoners. By now the sun was up and she saw before her a
+splendid building, and gathered below the building all the Senate of
+Rome in their robes, and many knights on horses, and nobles, and
+princes from every country with their retinues--a very wonderful and
+gallant sight. In front of the building were cloisters, before which
+were set two ivory chairs, while to right and left of these chairs, as
+far as the eye could reach, were drawn up thousand upon thousands of
+soldiers; the Senate, the Knights and the Princes, as she could see
+from the rising ground whereon she stood, being in front of them and
+of the chairs. Presently from the cloisters, clad in garments of silk
+and wearing crowns of laurel, appeared the Cæsars, Vespasian and
+Titus, attended by Domitian and their staffs. As they came the
+soldiers saw them and set up a mighty triumphant shout which sounded
+like the roar of the sea, that endured while the Cæsars sat themselves
+upon their thrones. Up and up went the sound of the continual
+shouting, till at length Vespasian rose and lifted his hand.
+
+Then silence fell and, covering his head with his cloak, he seemed to
+make some prayer, after which Titus also covered his head with his
+cloak and offered a prayer. This done, Vespasian addressed the
+soldiers, thanking them for their bravery and promising them rewards,
+whereon they shouted again until they were marched off to the feast
+that had been made ready. Now the Cæsars vanished and the officers
+began to order the great procession, of which Miriam could see neither
+the beginning nor the end. All she knew was that before her in lines
+eight wide were marshalled two thousand or more Jewish prisoners bound
+together with ropes, among whom, immediately in front of her, were a
+few women. Next she came, walking by herself, and behind her, also
+walking by himself, a dark, sullen-looking man, clad in a white robe
+and a purple cloak, with a gilded chain about his neck.
+
+Looking at him she wondered where she had seen his face, which seemed
+familiar to her. Then there rose before her mind a vision of the Court
+of the Sanhedrim sitting in the cloisters of the Temple, and of
+herself standing there before them. She remembered that this man was
+seated next to that Simeon who had been so bitter against her and
+pronounced upon her the cruel sentence of death, also that some one in
+the crowd had addressed him as Simon, the son of Gioras, none other
+than the savage general whom the Jews had admitted into the city to
+make way upon the Zealot, John of Gischala. From that day to this she
+had heard nothing of him till now they met again, the judge and the
+victim, caught in a common net. Presently, in the confusion they were
+brought together and he knew her.
+
+"Are you Miriam, the grand-daughter of Benoni?" he asked.
+
+"I am Miriam," she answered, "whom you, Simon, and your fellows doomed
+to a cruel death, but who have been preserved----"
+
+"----To walk in a Roman Triumph. Better that you had died, maiden, at
+the hands of your own people."
+
+"Better that you had died, Simon, at your own hands, or at those of
+the Romans."
+
+"That I am about to do," he replied bitterly. "Fear not, woman, you
+will be avenged."
+
+"I ask no vengeance," she answered. "Nay, cruel as you are I grieve
+that you, a great captain, should have come to this."
+
+"I grieve also, maiden. Your grandsire, old Benoni, chose the better
+part."
+
+Then the soldiers separated them and they spoke no more.
+
+An hour passed and the procession began its march along the Triumphal
+Way. Of it Miriam could see little. All she knew was that in front
+there were ranks of fettered prisoners, while behind men carried upon
+trays and tables the golden vessels of the Temple, the seven-branched
+candlestick and the ancient sacred book of the Jewish law. They were
+followed by other men, who bore aloft images of victory in ivory and
+gold. Then, although these did not join them till they reached the
+Porta Triumphalis, or the Gate of Pomp, attended, each of them, by
+lictors having their fasces wreathed with laurel, came the Cæsars.
+First went Vespasian Cæsar, the father. He rode in a splendid golden
+chariot, to which were harnessed four white horses led by Libyan
+soldiers. Behind him stood a slave clad in a dull robe, set there to
+avert the influence of the evil eye and of the envious gods, who held
+a crown above the head of the Imperator, and now and again whispered
+in his ear the ominous words, /Respice post te, hominem memento te/
+("Look back at me and remember thy mortality.")
+
+After Vespasian Cæsar, the father, came Titus Cæsar, the son, but his
+chariot was of silver, and graved upon its front was a picture of the
+Holy House of the Jews melting in the flames. Like his father he was
+attired in the /toga picta/ and /tunica palmata/, the gold-embroidered
+over-robe and the tunic laced with silver leaves, while in his right
+hand he held a laurel bough, and in his left a sceptre. He also was
+attended by a slave who whispered in his ear the message of mortality.
+
+Next to the chariot of Titus, alongside of it indeed, and as little
+behind as custom would allow, rode Domitian, gloriously arrayed and
+mounted on a splendid steed. Then came the tribunes and the knights on
+horseback, and after them the legionaries to the number of five
+thousand, every man of them having his spear wreathed in laurel.
+
+Now the great procession was across the Tiber, and, following its
+appointed path down broad streets and past palaces and temples, drew
+slowly towards its object, the shrine of Jupiter Capitolinus, that
+stood at the head of the Sacred Way beyond the Forum. Everywhere the
+side paths, the windows of houses, the great scaffoldings of timber,
+and the steps of temples were crowded with spectators. Never before
+did Miriam understand how many people could inhabit a single city.
+They passed them by thousands and by tens of thousands, and still, far
+as the eye could reach, stretched the white sea of faces. Ahead that
+sea would be quiet, then, as the procession pierced it, it began to
+murmur. Presently the murmur grew to a shout, the shout to a roar, and
+when the Cæsars appeared in their glittering chariots, the roar to a
+triumphant peal which shook the street like thunder. And so on for
+miles and miles, till Miriam's eyes were dim with the glare and
+glitter, and her head swam at the ceaseless sound of shouting.
+
+Often the procession would halt for a while, either because of a check
+to one of the pageants in front, or in order that some of its members
+might refresh themselves with drink which was brought to them. Then
+the crowd, ceasing from its cheers, would make jokes, and criticise
+whatever person or thing they chanced to be near. Greatly did they
+criticise Miriam in this fashion, or at the least she thought so, who
+must listen to it all. Most of them, she found, knew her by her name
+of Pearl-Maiden, and pointed out to each other the necklace about her
+throat. Many, too, had heard something of her story, and looked
+eagerly at the picture of the gate Nicanor blazoned upon her breast.
+But the greater part concerned themselves only with her delicate
+beauty, passing from mouth to mouth the gossip concerning Domitian,
+his quarrel with the Cæsars, and the intention which he had announced
+of buying this captive at the public sale. Always it was the same
+talk; sometimes more brutal and open than others--that was the only
+difference.
+
+Once they halted thus in the street of palaces through which they
+passed near to the Baths of Agrippa. Here the endless comments began
+again, but Miriam tried to shut her ears to it and looked about her.
+To her left was a noble-looking house built of white marble, but she
+noticed that its shutters were closed, also that it was undecorated
+with garlands, and idly wondered why. Others wondered too, for when
+they had wearied of discussing her points, she heard one plebeian ask
+another whose house that was and why it had been shut up upon this
+festal day. His fellow answered that he could not remember the owner's
+name, but he was a rich noble who had fallen in the Jewish wars, and
+that the palace was closed because it was not yet certain who was his
+heir.
+
+At that moment her attention was distracted by a sound of groans and
+laughter coming from behind. She looked round to see that the wretched
+Jewish general, Simon, had sunk fainting to the ground, overcome by
+the heat, or the terrors of his mind, or by the sufferings which he
+was forced to endure at the hands of his cruel guards, who flogged him
+as he walked, for the pleasure of the people. Now they were beating
+him to life again with their rods; hence the laughter of the audience
+and the groans of the victim. Sick at heart, Miriam turned away from
+this horrid sight, to hear a tall man, whose back was towards her, but
+who was clad in the rich robes of an Eastern merchant, asking one of
+the marshals of the Triumph, in a foreign accent, whether it was true
+that the captive Pearl-Maiden was to be sold that evening in the
+auction-mart of the Forum. The marshal answered yes, such were the
+orders as regarded her and the other women, since there was no
+convenient place to house them, and it was thought best to be rid of
+them and let their masters take them home at once.
+
+"Does she please you, sir? Are you going to bid?" he added. "If so,
+you will find yourself in high company."
+
+"Perhaps, perhaps," answered the man with a shrug of his shoulders.
+
+Then he vanished into the crowd.
+
+Now, for the first time that day, Miriam's spirit seemed to fail her.
+The weariness of her body, the foul talk, the fouler cruelty, the cold
+discussion of the sale of human beings to the first-comer as though
+they were sheep or swine, the fear of her fate that night, pressed
+upon and overcame her mind, so that she felt inclined, like Simon, the
+son of Gioras, to sink fainting to the pavement and lie there till the
+cruel rods beat her to her feet again. Hope sank low and faith grew
+dim, while in her heart she wondered vaguely what was the meaning of
+it all, and why poor men and women were made to suffer thus for the
+pleasure of other men and women; wondered also what escape there could
+be for her.
+
+While she mused thus, like a ray of light through the clouds, a sense
+of consolation, sweet as it was sudden, seemed to pierce the darkness
+of her bitter thoughts. She knew not whence it came, nor what it might
+portend, yet it existed, and the source of it seemed near to her. She
+scanned the faces of the crowd, finding pity in a few, curiosity in
+more, but in most gross admiration if they were men, or scorn of her
+misfortune and jealousy of her loveliness if they were women. Not from
+among these did that consolation flow. She looked up to the sky, half
+expecting to see there that angel of the Lord into whose keeping the
+bishop, Cyril, had delivered her. But the skies were empty and brazen
+as the faces of the Roman crowd; not a cloud could be seen in them,
+much less an angel.
+
+As her eyes sank earthwards their glance fell upon one of the windows
+of the marble house to her left. If she remembered right some few
+minutes before the shutters of that window had been closed, now they
+were open, revealing two heavy curtains of blue embroidered silk.
+Miriam thought this strange, and, without seeming to do so, kept her
+eyes fixed upon the curtains. Presently, for her sight was good, she
+saw fingers between them--long, dark-coloured fingers. Then very
+slowly the curtains were parted, and in the opening thus made appeared
+a face, the face of an old woman, dark and noble looking and crowned
+with snow-white hair. Even at that distance Miriam knew it in an
+instant.
+
+Oh, Heaven! it was the face of Nehushta, Nehushta whom she thought
+dead, or at least for ever lost. For a moment Miriam was paralysed,
+wondering whether this was not some vision born of the turmoil and
+excitement of that dreadful day. Nay, surely it was no vision, surely
+it was Nehushta herself who looked at her with loving eyes, for see!
+she made the sign of the cross in the air before her, the symbol of
+Christian hope and greeting, then laid her finger upon her lips in
+token of secrecy and silence. The curtain closed and she was gone, who
+not five seconds before had so mysteriously appeared.
+
+Miriam's knees gave way beneath her, and while the marshals shouted to
+the procession to set forward, she felt that she must sink to the
+ground. Indeed, she would have fallen had not some woman in the crowd
+stepped forward and thrust a goblet of wine into her hands, saying:
+
+"Drink that, Pearl-Maiden, it will make your pale cheeks even prettier
+than they are."
+
+The words were coarse, but Miriam, looking at the woman, knew her for
+one of the Christian community with whom she had worshipped in the
+catacombs. So she took the cup, fearing nothing, and drank it off.
+Then new strength came to her, and she went forward with the others on
+that toilsome, endless march.
+
+At length, however, it did end, an hour or so before sunset. They had
+passed miles of streets; they had trodden the Sacred Way bordered by
+fanes innumerable and adorned with statues set on columns; and now
+marched up the steep slope that was crowned by the glorious temple of
+Jupiter Capitolinus. As they began to climb it guards broke into their
+lines, and seizing the chain that hung about the neck of Simon,
+dragged him away.
+
+"Whither do they take you?" asked Miriam as he passed her.
+
+"To what I desire--death," he answered, and was gone.
+
+Now the Cæsars, dismounting from their chariots, took up their
+stations by altars at the head of the steps, while beneath them, rank
+upon rank, gathered all those who had shared their Triumph, each
+company in its allotted place. Then followed a long pause, the
+multitude waiting for Miriam knew not what. Presently men were seen
+running from the Forum up a path that had been left open, one of them
+carrying in his hand some object wrapped in a napkin. Arriving in face
+of the Cæsars he threw aside the cloth and held up before them and in
+sight of all the people the grizzly head of Simon, the son of Gioras.
+By this public murder of a brave captain of their foes was consummated
+the Triumph of the Romans, and at the sight of its red proof trumpets
+blew, banners waved, and from half a million throats went up a shout
+of victory that seemed to rend the very skies, for the multitude was
+drunk with the glory of its brutal vengeance.
+
+Then silence was called, and there before the Temple of Jove the
+beasts were slain, and the Cæsars offered sacrifice to the gods that
+had given them victory.
+
+Thus ended the Triumph of Vespasian and Titus, and with it the record
+of the struggle of the Jews against the iron beak and claws of the
+Roman Eagle.
+
+
+
+                            CHAPTER XXIII
+
+                            THE SLAVE-RING
+
+Had Miriam chanced to look out of her litter as she passed the Temple
+of Isis, escorted by Gallus and the guards before dawn broke upon that
+great day of the Triumph, and had there been light to enable her to
+see, she might have beheld two figures galloping into Rome as fast as
+their weary horses would carry them. Both rode after the fashion of
+men, but one of them, wrapped in an Eastern garment that hid the face,
+was in fact a woman.
+
+"Fortune favours us, Nehushta," said the man in a strained voice. "At
+least, we are in time for the Triumph, who might so easily have been
+too late. Look, yonder they gather already by Octavian's Walks," and
+he pointed to the companies of soldiers who hurried past them to the
+meeting-place.
+
+"Yes, yes, my lord Marcus, we are in time. There go the eagles and
+here comes their prey," and in her turn Nehushta pointed to a guarded
+litter--had they but known it, the very one that carried the beloved
+woman whom they sought. "But whither now? Would you also march in the
+train of Titus?"
+
+"Nay, woman, it is too late. Also I know not what would be my
+welcome."
+
+"Your welcome? Why, you were his friend, and Titus is faithful to his
+friends."
+
+"Aye, but perhaps not to those who have been taken prisoner by the
+enemy. Towards the commencement of the siege that happened to a man I
+knew. He was captured with a companion. The companion the Jews slew,
+but as he was about to be beheaded upon the wall, this man slipped
+from the hands of the executioner, and leaping from it escaped with
+little hurt. Titus gave him his life, but dismissed him from his
+legion. Why should I fare better?"
+
+"That you were taken was no fault of yours, who were struck senseless
+and overwhelmed."
+
+"Maybe, but would that avail me? The rule, a good rule, is that no
+Roman soldier should yield to an enemy. If he is captured while
+insensible, then on finding his wits he must slay himself, as I should
+have striven to do, had I awakened to find myself in the hands of the
+Jews. But things fell out otherwise. Still, I tell you, Nehushta, that
+had it not been for Miriam, I should not have turned my face to Rome,
+at any rate until I had received pardon and permission from Titus."
+
+"What then are your plans, lord Marcus?"
+
+"To go to my own house near the Baths of Agrippa. The Triumph must
+pass there, and if Miriam is among the captives we shall see her. If
+not, then either she is dead or already sold, or perchance given as a
+present to some friend of Cæsar's."
+
+Now they ceased talking, for the people were so many that they could
+only force their way through the press riding one after the other.
+Thus, Nehushta following Marcus, they crossed the Tiber and passed
+through many streets, decorated, most of them, for the coming pageant,
+till at length Marcus drew rein in front of a marble mansion in the
+Via Agrippa.
+
+"A strange home-coming," he muttered. "Follow me," and he rode round
+the house to a side-entrance.
+
+Here he dismounted and knocked at the small door for some time without
+avail. At length it was opened a little way, and a thin, querulous
+voice, speaking through the crack, said:
+
+"Begone, whoever you are. No one lives here. This is the house of
+Marcus, who is dead in the Jewish war. Who are you that disturb me?"
+
+"The heir of Marcus."
+
+"Marcus has no heir, unless it be Cæsar, who doubtless will take his
+property."
+
+"Open, Stephanus," said Marcus, in a tone of command, at the same time
+pushing the door wide and entering. "Fool," he added, "what kind of a
+steward are you that you do not know your master's voice?"
+
+Now he who had kept the door, a withered little man in a scribe's
+brown robe, peered at this visitor with his sharp eyes, then threw up
+his hands and staggered back, saying:
+
+"By the spear of Mars! it is Marcus himself, Marcus returned from the
+dead! Welcome, my lord, welcome."
+
+Marcus led his horse through the deep archway, and when Nehushta had
+followed him into the courtyard beyond, returned, closed and locked
+the door.
+
+"Why did you think me dead, friend?" he asked.
+
+"Oh! my lord," answered the steward, "because all who have come home
+from the war declared that you had vanished away during the siege of
+the city of the Jews, and that you must either be dead or taken
+prisoner. Now I knew well that you would never disgrace your ancient
+house, or your own noble name, or the Eagles which you serve, by
+falling alive into the hands of the enemy. Therefore, I was sure that
+you were dead."
+
+Marcus laughed bitterly, then turning to Nehushta, said:
+
+"You hear, woman, you hear. If such is the judgment of my steward and
+freedman, what will be that of Cæsar and my peers?" Then he added,
+"Now, Stephanus, that what you thought impossible--what I myself
+should have thought impossible--has happened. I was taken prisoner by
+the Jews, though through no fault of mine."
+
+"Oh! if so," said the old steward, "hide it, my lord, hide it. Why,
+two such unhappy men who had surrendered to save their lives and were
+found in some Jewish dungeon, have been condemned to walk in the
+Triumph this day. Their hands are to be tied behind them; in place of
+their swords they must wear a distaff, and on their breasts a placard
+with the words written: 'I am a Roman who preferred dishonour to
+death.' You would not wish their company, my lord."
+
+The face of Marcus went first red, then white.
+
+"Man," he said, "cease your ill-omened talk, lest I should fall upon
+my sword here before your eyes. Bid the slaves make ready the bath and
+food, for we need both."
+
+"Slaves, my lord? There are none here, save one old woman, who attends
+to me and the house."
+
+"Where are they then?" asked Marcus angrily.
+
+"The most part of them I have sent into the country, thinking it
+better that they should work upon your estates rather than live here
+idle, and others who were not needed I have sold."
+
+"You were ever careful, Stephanus." Then he added by an afterthought,
+"Have you any money in the house?"
+
+The old steward looked towards Nehushta suspiciously and seeing that
+she was engaged with the horses out of earshot, answered in a whisper:
+"Money? I have so much of it that I know not what to do. The strong
+place you know if is almost full of gold and still it comes. There are
+the rents and profits of your great estates for three years; the
+proceeds of the sale of slaves and certain properties, together with
+the large outstanding amount that was due to my late master, the Lord
+Caius, which I have at length collected. Oh! at least you will not
+lack for money."
+
+"There are other things that I could spare less readily," said Marcus,
+with a sigh; "still, it may be needed. Now tie up those horses by the
+fountain, and give us food, what you have, for we have ridden these
+thirty hours without rest. Afterwards you can talk."
+
+
+
+It was mid-day. Marcus, bathed, anointed, and clad in the robes of his
+order, was standing in one of the splendid apartments of his marble
+house, looking through an opening in the shutters at the passing of
+the Triumph. Presently old Nehushta joined him. She also was clad in
+clean, white robes which the slave woman had found for her.
+
+"Have you any news?" asked Marcus impatiently.
+
+"Some, lord, which I have pieced together from what is known by the
+slave-woman, and by your steward, Stephanus. A beautiful Jewish
+captive is to walk in the Triumph and afterwards to be sold with other
+captives in the Forum. They heard of her because it is said that there
+has been a quarrel between Titus and his brother Domitian, and
+Vespasian also, on account of this woman."
+
+"A quarrel? What quarrel?"
+
+"I, or rather your servants, know little of it, but they have heard
+that Domitian demanded the girl as a gift, whereon Titus told him that
+if he wished for her, he might buy her. Then the matter was referred
+to Vespasian Cæsar, who upheld the decree of Titus. As for Domitian,
+he went away in a rage, declaring that he would purchase the girl and
+remember the affront which had been put upon him."
+
+"Surely the gods are against me," said Marcus, "if they have given me
+Domitian for a rival."
+
+"Why so, lord? Your money is as good as his, and perhaps you will pay
+more."
+
+"I will pay to my last piece, but will that free me from the rage and
+hate of Domitian?"
+
+"Why need he knew that you were the rival bidder?"
+
+"Why? Oh! in Rome everything is known--even the truth sometimes."
+
+"Time enough to trouble when trouble comes. First let us wait and see
+whether this maid be Miriam."
+
+"Aye," he answered, "let us wait--since we must."
+
+So they waited and with anxious eyes watched the great show roll by
+them. They saw the cars painted with scenes of the taking of Jerusalem
+and the statues of the gods fashioned in ivory and gold. They saw the
+purple hangings of the Babylonian broidered pictures, the wild beasts,
+and the ships mounted upon wheels. They saw the treasures of the
+temple and the images of victory, and many other things, for that
+pageant seemed to be endless, and still the captives and the Emperors
+did not come.
+
+One sight there was also that caused Marcus to shrink as though fire
+had burned him, for yonder, set in the midst of a company of jugglers
+and buffoons that gibed and mocked at them, were the two unhappy men
+who had been taken prisoners by the Jews. On they tramped, their hands
+bound behind them, clad in full armour, but wearing a woman's distaff
+where the sword should have been, and round their necks the placards
+which proclaimed their shame. The brutal Roman mob hooted them also,
+that mob which ever loved spectacles of cruelty and degradation,
+calling them cowards. One of the men, a bull-necked, black-haired
+fellow, suffered it patiently, remembering that at even he must be set
+free to vanish where he would. The other, who was blue-eyed and finer-
+featured, having gentle blood in his veins, seemed to be maddened by
+their talk, for he glared about him, gnashing his teeth like a wild
+beast in a cage. Opposite to the house of Marcus came the climax.
+
+"Cur," yelled a woman in the mob, casting a pebble that struck him on
+the cheek. "Cur! Coward!"
+
+The blue-eyed man stopped, and, wheeling round, shouted in answer:
+
+"I am no coward, I who have slain ten men with my own hand, five of
+them in single combat. You are the cowards who taunt me. I was
+overwhelmed, that is all, and afterwards in the prison I thought of my
+wife and children and lived on. Now I die and my blood be on you."
+
+Behind him, drawn by eight white oxen, was the model of a ship with
+the crew standing on its deck. Avoiding his guard, the man ran down
+the line of oxen and suddenly cast himself upon the ground before the
+wooden-wheeled car, which passed over his neck, crushing the life out
+of him.
+
+"Well done! Well done!" shouted the crowd, rejoicing at this
+unexpected sight. "Well done! He was brave after all."
+
+Then the body was carried away and the procession moved forward. But
+Marcus, who watched, hid his face in his hands, and Nehushta, lifting
+hers, uttered a prayer for the passing soul of the victim.
+
+Now the prisoners began to go past, marching eight by eight, hundreds
+upon hundreds of them, and once more the mob shouted and rejoiced over
+these unfortunates, whose crime was that they had fought for their
+country to the end. The last files passed, then at a little distance
+from them, tramping forward wearily, appeared the slight figure of a
+girl dressed in a robe of white silk blazoned at its breast with gold.
+Her bowed head, from which the curling tresses fell almost to her
+waist, was bared to the fierce rays of the sun, and on her naked bosom
+lay a necklace of great pearls.
+
+"Pearl-Maiden, Pearl-Maiden!" shouted the crowd.
+
+"Look!" said Nehushta, gripping the shoulder of Marcus with her hand.
+
+He looked, and after long years once more beheld Miriam, for though he
+had heard her voice in the Old Tower at Jerusalem, then her face was
+hidden from him by the darkness. There was the maid from whom he had
+parted in the desert village by Jordan, the same, and yet changed.
+Then she had been a lovely girl, now she was a woman on whom sorrow
+and suffering had left their stamp. The features were finer, the deep,
+patient eyes were frightened and reproachful; her beauty was such as
+we see in dreams, not altogether that of earth.
+
+"Oh! my darling, my darling," murmured Nehushta, stretching out her
+arms towards her. "Christ be thanked, that I have found you, my
+darling." Then she turned to Marcus, who was devouring Miriam with his
+eyes, and said in a fierce voice:
+
+"Roman, now that you see her again, do you still love her as much as
+of old time?"
+
+He took no note and she repeated the question. Then he answered:
+
+"Why do you trouble me with such idle words. Once she was a woman to
+be won, now she is a spirit to be worshipped."
+
+"Woman or spirit, or woman and spirit, beware how you deal with her,
+Roman," snarled Nehushta still more fiercely, "or----" and she left
+her hand fall upon the knife that was hidden in her robe.
+
+"Peace, peace!" said Marcus, and as he spoke the procession came to a
+halt before his windows. "How weary she is, and sad," he went on
+speaking to himself. "Her heart seems crushed. Oh! that I must stay
+here and see her thus, who dare not show myself! If she could but
+know! If she could but know!"
+
+Nehushta thrust him aside and took his place. Fixing her eyes upon
+Miriam she made some effort of the will, so fierce and concentrated
+that beneath the strain her body shook and quivered. See! Her thought
+reached the captive, for she looked up.
+
+"Stand to one side," she whispered to Marcus, then unlatched the
+shutters and slowly pushed them open. Now between her and the air was
+nothing but the silken curtains. Very gently she parted these with her
+hands, for some few seconds suffering her face to be seen between
+them. Then laying her fingers on her lips she drew back and they
+closed again.
+
+"It is well," she said, "she knows."
+
+"Let her see me also," said Marcus.
+
+"Nay, she can bear no more. Look, look, she faints."
+
+Groaning in bitterness of spirit they watched Miriam, who seemed about
+to fall. Now a woman gave her the cup of wine, and drinking she
+recovered herself.
+
+"Note that woman," muttered Marcus, "that I may reward her."
+
+"It is needless," answered Nehushta, "she seeks no reward."
+
+"She is more than a Roman, she is a Christian. As she passed it she
+made a sign of the cross with the cup."
+
+The waggons creaked; the officers shouted; the procession moved
+forward. From behind the curtain the pair kept their eyes fixed upon
+Miriam until she vanished in the dust and crowd. When she had gone
+they seemed to see little else; even the sight of the glorious Cæsars
+could not hold their eyes.
+
+Marcus summoned the steward, Stephanus.
+
+"Go forth," he said, "and discover when and where the captive Pearl-
+Maiden is to be sold. Then return to me swiftly. Be secret and silent,
+and let none suspect whence you come or what you seek. Your life hangs
+upon it. Go."
+
+
+
+The sun was sinking fast, staining the marble temples and colonnades
+of the Forum blood-red with its level beams. For the most part the
+glorious place was deserted now, since, the Triumph over at length,
+the hundreds of thousands of the Roman populace, wearied out with
+pleasure and excitement, had gone home to spend the night in feasting.
+About one of the public slave-markets, however, a round of marble
+enclosed with a rope and set in front of a small building, where the
+slaves were sheltered until the moment of their sale, a mixed crowd
+was gathered, some of them bidders, some idlers drawn thither by
+curiosity. Others were in the house behind examining the wares before
+they came to the hammer. Presently an old woman, meanly clad with her
+face veiled to the eyes, and bearing on her back a heavy basket such
+as was used to carry fruit to market, presented herself at the door of
+the house.
+
+"What do you want?" asked the gatekeeper.
+
+"To inspect the slaves," she answered in Greek.
+
+"Go away," he said roughly, "you are not a buyer."
+
+"I may be if the stuff is good enough," she replied, slipping a gold
+coin into his hand.
+
+"Pass in, old lady, pass in," and in another second the door had
+closed behind her, and Nehushta found herself among the slaves.
+
+In this building the light was already so low that torches were
+burning for the convenience of visitors. By the flare of them Nehushta
+saw the unfortunate captives--there were but fifteen--seated upon
+marble benches, while slave women moved from the one to the other,
+washing their hands and feet and faces in scented water, brushing and
+tying their hair and removing the dust of the procession from their
+robes, so that they might look more comely to the eyes of the
+purchasers. Also there were present a fair number of bidders, twenty
+or thirty of them, who strolled from girl to girl discussing the
+points of each and at times asking them to stand up, or turn round, or
+show their arms and ankles, that they might judge of them better. At
+the moment when Nehushta entered one of these, a fat man with greasy
+curls who looked like an Eastern, was endeavouring to persuade a dark
+and splendid Jewess to let him see her foot. Pretending not to
+understand she sat still and sullen, till at length he stooped down
+and lifted her robe. Then in an instant the girl dealt him such a kick
+in the face that amidst the laughter of the spectators he rolled
+backwards on the floor, whence he rose with a cut and bloody forehead.
+
+"Very good, my beauty, very good," he muttered in a savage voice,
+"before twelve hours are over you shall pay for that."
+
+But again the girl sat sullen and motionless, pretending not to
+understand.
+
+Most of the public, however, were gathered about Miriam, who sat upon
+a chair by herself, her hands folded, her head bent down, a very
+picture of pitiful, outraged modesty. One by one as their turns came
+and the attendant suffered them to approach, the men advanced and
+examined her closely, though Nehushta noted that none of them were
+allowed to touch her with their hands. Placing herself at the end of
+the line she watched with all her eyes and listened with all her ears.
+Soon she had her reward. A tall man, dressed like a merchant of Egypt,
+went up to Miriam and bent over her.
+
+"Silence!" said the attendant. "I am ordered to suffer none to speak
+to the slave who is called Pearl-Maiden. Move on, sir, move on."
+
+The man lifted his head, and although in that gloom she could not see
+his face, Nehushta knew its shape. Still she was not sure, till
+presently he moved his right hand so that it came between her and the
+flame of one of the torches, and she perceived that the top joint of
+the first finger was missing.
+
+"Caleb," she thought to herself, "Caleb, escaped and in Rome! So
+Domitian has another rival." Then she went back to the door-keeper and
+asked him the name of the man.
+
+"A merchant of Alexandria named Demetrius," he said.
+
+Nehushta returned to her place. In front of her two men, agents who
+bought slaves and other things for wealthy clients, were talking.
+
+"More fit for a sale of dogs," said one, "after sunset when everybody
+is tired out, than for that of one of the fairest women who ever stood
+upon the block."
+
+"Pshaw," answered the other, "the whole thing is a farce. Domitian is
+in a hurry, that's all, so the auction must be held to-night."
+
+"He means to buy her?"
+
+"Of course. I am told that his factor, Saturius, has orders to go up
+to a thousand sestertia if need be," and he nodded towards a quiet man
+dressed in a robe of some rich, dark stuff, who stood in a corner of
+the place watching the company.
+
+"A thousand sestertia! For one slave girl! Ye gods! a thousand
+sestertia!"
+
+"The necklace goes with her, that is worth something, and there is
+property at Tyre."
+
+"Property in Tyre," said the other, "property in the moon. Come on,
+let us look at something a little less expensive. As I wish to keep my
+head on my shoulders, I am not going to bid against the prince in any
+case."
+
+"No, nor anyone else either. I expect he will get his fancy pretty
+cheap after all."
+
+Then the two men moved away, and a minute afterwards Nehushta found
+that it was her turn to approach Miriam.
+
+"Here comes a curious sort of buyer," said one of the attendants.
+
+"Don't judge the taste of the fruit by the look of the rind, young
+man," answered Nehushta, and at the sound of that voice for the first
+time Pearl-Maiden lifted her head, then dropped it quickly.
+
+"She is well enough," Nehushta said aloud, "but there used to be
+prettier women when I was young; in fact, though dark, I was myself,"
+a statement at which those within hearing, noting her gaunt and aged
+form bent beneath the heavy basket, tittered aloud. "Come, lift up
+your head, my dear," she went on, trying to entice the captive to
+consent by encouraging waves of her hand.
+
+They were fruitless; still, had any thought of it there was meaning in
+them. On Nehushta's finger, as it chanced, shone a ring which Miriam
+ought to know, seeing that for some years she had worn it on her own.
+
+It would seem that she did know it, at any rate her bosom and neck
+grew red and a spasm passed across her face which even the falling
+hair did not suffice to hide.
+
+The ring told Miriam that Marcus lived and that Nehushta was his
+messenger. This suspense at least was ended.
+
+Now the door-keeper called a warning and the buyers flocked from the
+building. Outside, the auctioneer, a smooth-faced, glib-tongued man,
+was already mounting the rostrum. Calling for silence he began his
+speech. On this evening of festival, he said, he would be brief. The
+lots he had to offer to the select body of connoisseurs he saw before
+him, were the property of the Imperator Titus, and the proceeds of the
+sale, it was his duty to tell them, would not go into Cæsar's pocket,
+but were to be equally divided between the poor of Rome and deserving
+soldiers who had been wounded or had lost their health in the war, a
+fact which must cause every patriotic citizen to bid more briskly.
+These lots, he might say, were unique, being nothing else than the
+fifteen most beautiful girls, believed all of them to be of noble
+blood, among the many thousands who had been captured at the sack of
+Jerusalem, the city of the Jews, especially selected to adorn the
+great conqueror's Triumph. No true judge, who desired a charming
+memento of the victory of his country's arms, would wish to neglect
+such an opportunity, especially as he was informed that the Jewish
+women were affectionate, docile, well instructed in many arts, and
+very hard-working. He had only one more thing to say, or rather two
+things. He regretted that this important sale should be held at so
+unusual an hour. The reason was that there was really no place where
+these slaves could be comfortably kept without risk of their
+maltreatment or escape, so it was held to be best that they should be
+removed at once to the seclusion of their new homes, a decision, he
+was sure, that would meet the wishes of buyers. The second point was
+that among them was one lot of surpassing interest; namely, the girl
+who had come to be generally spoken of as Pearl-Maiden.
+
+This young woman, who could not be more than three or four-and-twenty
+years of age, was the last representative of a princely family of the
+Jews. She had been found exposed upon one of the gates of the holy
+house of that people, where it would seem she was sentenced to perish
+for some offence against their barbarous laws. As the clamours of the
+populace that day had testified, she was of the most delicate and
+distinguished beauty, and the collar of great pearls which she wore
+about her neck gave evidence of her rank. If he knew anything of the
+tastes of his countrymen the price which would be paid for her must
+prove a record even in that ring. He was aware that among the vulgar a
+great, almost a divine name had been coupled with that of this
+captive. Well, he knew nothing, except this, that he was certain that
+if there was any truth in the matter the owner of the name, as became
+a noble and a generous nature, would wish to obtain his prize fairly
+and openly. The bidding was as free to the humblest there--provided,
+of course, that he could pay, and he might remark that not an hour's
+credit would be given except to those who were known to him--as to
+Cæsar himself. Now, as the light was failing, he would order the
+torches to be lit and commence the sale. The beauteous Pearl-Maiden,
+he might add, was Lot No. 7.
+
+So the torches were lit, and presently the first victim was led out
+and placed upon a stand of marble in the centre of the flaring ring.
+She was a dark-haired child of about sixteen years of age, who stared
+round her with a frightened gaze.
+
+The bidding began at five sestertia and ran up to fifteen, or about
+£120 of our money, at which price she was knocked down to a Greek, who
+led her back into the receiving house, paid the gold to a clerk who
+was in attendance, and took her away, sobbing as she went. Then
+followed four others, who were sold at somewhat better prices. No. 6
+was the dark and splendid Jewess who had kicked the greasy-curled
+Eastern in the face. As soon as she appeared upon the block, this
+brute stepped forward and bid twenty sestertia for her. An old grey-
+bearded fellow answered with a bid of twenty-five. Then some one bid
+thirty, which the Eastern capped with a bid of forty. So it went on
+till the large total of sixty sestertia was offered, whereon the
+Eastern advanced two more, at which price, amidst the laughter of the
+audience, she was knocked down to him.
+
+"You know me and that the money is safe," he said to the auctioneer.
+"It shall be paid to you to-morrow; I have enough to carry without
+lading myself up with so much gold. Come on, girl, to your new home,
+where I have a little score to settle with you," and grasping her by
+the left wrist he pulled her from the block and led her unresisting
+through the crowd and to the shadows beyond.
+
+Already No. 7 had been summoned to the block and the auctioneer was
+taking up his tale, when from out of these shadows rose the sound of a
+dreadful yell. Some of the audience snatched torches from their stands
+and ran to the spot whence it came. There, on the marble pavement lay
+the Eastern dead or dying, while over him stood the Jewess, a red
+dagger, his own, which she had snatched from its scabbard, in her
+hand, and on her stately face a look of vengeful triumph.
+
+"Seize her! Seize the murdering witch! Beat her to death with rods,"
+they cried, and at the command of the auctioneer slaves ran up to take
+her.
+
+She waited till they were near, then, without a word or a sound,
+lifted her strong, white arm and drove the knife deep into her own
+heart. For a moment she stood still, till suddenly she stretched her
+hands wide and fell face downwards dead upon the body of the brute who
+had bought her.
+
+The crowd gasped and was silent. Then one of them, a sickly looking
+patrician, called out:
+
+"Oh! I did well to come. What a sight! What a sight! Blessings on you,
+brave girl, you have given Julius a new pleasure."
+
+After this there was tumult and confusion while the attendants carried
+away the bodies. A few minutes later the auctioneer climbed back into
+his rostrum and alluded in moving terms to the "unfortunate accident"
+which had just happened.
+
+"Who would think," he said, "that one so beautiful could also be so
+violent? I weep when I consider that this noble purchaser, whose name
+I forget at the moment, but whose estate, by the way, is liable for
+the money, should have thus suddenly been transferred from the arms of
+Venus to that of Pluto, although it must be admitted that he gave the
+woman some provocation. Well, gentlemen, grief will not bring him to
+life again, and we who still stand beneath the stars have business to
+attend. Bear me witness, all of you, that I am blameless in this
+affair, and, slaves, bring out that priceless gem, the Pearl-Maiden."
+
+
+
+                             CHAPTER XXIV
+
+                           MASTER AND SLAVE
+
+Now a hush of expectancy fell upon the crowd, till presently two
+attendants appeared, each of them holding in his hand a flaming torch,
+and between them the captive Pearl-Maiden. So beautiful did she look
+as she advanced thus with bowed head, the red light of the torches
+falling upon her white robe and breast and reflected in a faint,
+shimmering line from the collar of pearls about her neck, that even
+that jaded company clapped as she came. In another moment she had
+mounted the two steps and was standing on the block of marble. The
+crowd pressed closer, among them the merchant of Egypt, Demetrius, and
+the veiled woman with the basket, who was now attended by a little man
+dressed as a slave and bearing on his back another basket, the weight
+of which he seemed to find irksome, since from time to time he groaned
+and twisted his shoulders. Also the chamberlain, Saturius, secure in
+the authority of his master, stepped over the rope and against the
+rule began to walk round and round the captive, examining her
+critically.
+
+"Look at her!" said the auctioneer. "Look for yourselves. I have
+nothing to say, words fail me--unless it is this. For more than twenty
+years I have stood in this rostrum, and during that time I suppose
+that fifteen or sixteen thousand young women have been knocked down to
+my hammer. They have come out of every part of the world; from the
+farthest East, from the Grecian mountains, from Egypt and Cyprus, from
+the Spanish plains, from Gaul, from the people of the Teutons, from
+the island of the Britons, and other barbarous places that lie still
+further north. Among them were many beautiful women, of every style
+and variety of loveliness, yet I tell you honestly, my patrons, I do
+not remember one who came so near perfection as this maiden whom I
+have the honour to sell to-night. I say again--look at her, look at
+her, and tell me with what you can find fault.
+
+"What do you say? Oh! yes, I am informed that her teeth are quite
+sound, there is no blemish to conceal, none at all, and the hair is
+all her own. That gentleman says that she is rather small. Well, she
+is not built upon a large scale, and to my mind that is one of her
+attractions. Little and good, you know, little and good. Only consider
+the proportions. Why, the greatest sculptors, ancient or modern, would
+rejoice to have her as model, and I hope that in the interests of the
+art-loving public"--here he glanced at the Chamberlain, Saturius--
+"that the fortunate person into whose hands she passes will not be so
+selfish as to deny them this satisfaction.
+
+"Now I have said enough and must but add this, that by the special
+decree of her captor, the Imperator Titus, the beautiful necklace of
+pearls worn by the maiden goes with her. I asked a jeweller friend of
+mine to look at it just now, and judging as well as he could without
+removing it from her neck, which was not allowed, he values it at
+least at a hundred sestertia. Also, there goes with this lot
+considerable property, situated in Tyre and neighbouring places, to
+which, had she been a free woman, she would have succeeded by
+inheritance. You may think that Tyre is a long way off and that it
+will be difficult to take possession of this estate, and, of course,
+there is something in the objection. Still, the title to it is secure
+enough, for here I have a deed signed by Titus Cæsar himself,
+commanding all officials, officers and others concerned, to hand over
+without waste or deduction all property, real or personal, belonging
+to the estate of the late Benoni, the Jewish merchant of Tyre, and a
+member of the Sanhedrim--the lot's grandfather, I am informed,
+gentleman--to her purchaser, who has only to fill in his own name in
+the blank space, or any representatives whom he may appoint, which
+deed is especially declared to be indefeasible. Any one wish to see
+it? No? Then we will take it as read. I know that in such a matter, my
+patrons, my word is enough for you.
+
+"Now I am about to come to business, with the remark that the more
+liberal your bidding the better will our glorious general, Titus
+Cæsar, be pleased; the better will the poor and the invalided
+soldiers, who deserve so well at your hands, be pleased; the better
+will the girl herself be pleased, who I am sure will know how to
+reward a generous appreciation of her worth; and the better shall I,
+your humble friend and servant, be pleased, because, as I may inform
+you in strict secrecy, I am paid, not by a fixed salary, but by
+commission.
+
+"Now, gentlemen, what may I say? A thousand sestertia to begin with?
+Oh! don't laugh, I expect more than that. What! Fifty? You are joking,
+my friend. However, the acorn grows into the oak, doesn't it? and I am
+told that you can stop the sources of the Tiber with your hat; so I'll
+start with fifty. Fifty--a hundred. Come, bid up, gentlemen, or we
+shall never get home to supper. Two hundred--three, four, five, six,
+seven, eight--ah! that's better. What are you stopping for?" and he
+addressed a hatchet-faced man who had thrust himself forward over the
+rope of the ring.
+
+The man shook his head with a sigh. "I'm done," he said. "Such goods
+are for my betters," a sentiment that seemed to be shared by his
+rivals, since they also stopped bidding.
+
+"Well, friend Saturius," said the auctioneer, "have you gone to sleep,
+or have you anything to say? Only in hundreds, now, gentlemen, mind,
+only in hundreds, unless I give the word. Thank you, I have nine
+hundred," and he looked round rather carelessly, expecting at heart
+that this bid would be the last.
+
+Then the merchant from Alexandria stepped forward and held up his
+finger.
+
+"A thousand, by the Gods!"
+
+Saturius looked at the man indignantly. Who was this that dared to bid
+against Domitian, the third dignitary in all the Roman empire, Cæsar's
+son, Cæsar's brother, who might himself be Cæsar? Still he answered
+with another bid of eleven hundred.
+
+Once more the finger of Domitian went up.
+
+"Twelve. Twelve hundred!" said the auctioneer, in a voice of
+suppressed excitement, while the audience gasped, for such prices had
+not been heard of.
+
+"Thirteen," said the Chamberlain.
+
+Again the finger went up.
+
+"Fourteen hundred. I have fourteen hundred. Against you, worthy
+Saturius. Come, come, I must knock the lot down, which perhaps would
+not please some whom I could mention. Don't be stingy, friend, you
+have a large purse to draw on, and it is called the Roman Empire. Now.
+Thank you, I have fifteen hundred. Well, my friend yonder. What! Have
+you had enough?" and he pointed to the Alexandrian merchant, who, with
+a groan, had turned aside and hidden his face in his hands.
+
+"Knocked out, knocked out, it seems," said the auctioneer, "and though
+it is little enough under all the circumstances for this lot, who is
+as lovely as she is historical, I suppose that I can scarcely
+expect----" and he looked around despondently.
+
+Suddenly the old woman with the basket glanced up and, speaking in a
+quiet matter-of-fact voice but with a foreign accent, said:
+
+"Two thousand."
+
+A titter of laughter went around the room.
+
+"My dear madam?" queried the auctioneer, looking at her dubiously,
+"might I ask if you mean sester/tii/ or sester/tia/?[*] Your pardon,
+but it has occurred to me that you might be confounding the two sums."
+
+[*] A /sestertius/ was worth less than 2d., a /sestertium/ was a sum
+    of money of the value of about £8.
+
+"Two thousand sester/tia/," repeated the matter-of-fact voice with the
+foreign accent.
+
+"Well, well," said the auctioneer, "I suppose that I must accept the
+bid. Friend Saturius, I have two thousand sestertia, and it is against
+you."
+
+"Against me it must remain, then," replied the little man in a fury.
+"Do all the kings in the world want this girl? Already I have exceeded
+my limit by five hundred sestertia. I dare do no more. Let her go."
+
+"Don't vex yourself, Saturius," said the auctioneer, "bidding is one
+thing, paying another. At present I have a bona-fide bid of fifteen
+hundred from you. Unless this liberal but unknown lady is prepared
+with the cash I shall close on that. Do you understand, madam?"
+
+"Perfectly," answered the veiled old woman. "Being a stranger to Rome
+I thought it well to bring the gold with me, since strangers cannot
+expect credit."
+
+"To bring the gold with you!" gasped the auctioneer. "To bring two
+thousand sestertia with you! Where is it then?"
+
+"Where? Oh! in my servant's and my own baskets, and something more as
+well. Come, good sir, I have made my bid. Does the worthy gentleman
+advance?"
+
+"No," shouted Saturius. "You are being fooled, she has not got the
+money."
+
+"If he does not advance and no other worthy gentleman wishes to bid,
+then will you knock the lot down?" said the old woman. "Pardon me if I
+press you, noble seller of slaves, but I must ride far from Rome
+to-night, to Centum Cellæ, indeed, where my ship waits; therefore, I
+have no time to lose."
+
+Now the auctioneer saw that there was no choice, since under the rules
+of the public mart he must accept the offer of the highest bidder.
+
+"Two thousand sestertia are bid for this lot No. 7, the Jewish captive
+known as Pearl-Maiden, sold by order of Titus Imperator, together with
+her collar of pearls and the property to which, as a free woman, she
+would have been entitled. Any advance on two thousand sestertia?" and
+he looked at Saturius, who shook his head. "No? Then--going--going--
+gone! I declare the lot sold, to be delivered on payment of the cash
+to the person named--by the way, madam, what is your name?"
+
+"Mulier."
+
+At this the company burst into a loud laugh.
+
+"Mulier?" repeated the auctioneer, "M u l i e r--Woman?"
+
+"Yes, am I not a woman, and what better name can I have than is given
+to all my sex?"
+
+"In truth, you are so wrapped up that I must take your word for it,"
+replied the auctioneer. "But come, let us put an end to this farce. If
+you have the money, follow me into the receiving house--for I must see
+to the matter myself--and pay it down."
+
+"With pleasure, sir, but be so good as to bring my property with you.
+She is too valuable to be left here unprotected amongst these
+distinguished but disappointed gentlemen."
+
+Accordingly Miriam was led from the marble stand into an office
+annexed to the receiving-house, whither she was followed by the
+auctioneer and by Nehushta and her servant, whose backs, it was now
+observed, bent beneath the weight of the baskets that were strapped
+upon them. Here the door was locked, and with the help of her
+attendant Nehushta loosened her basket, letting it fall upon the table
+with a sigh of relief.
+
+"Take it and count, he said to the auctioneer, untying the lid.
+
+He lifted it and there met his eye a layer of lettuces neatly packed.
+
+"By Venus!" he began in a fury.
+
+"Softly, friend, softly," said Nehushta, "these lettuces are of a kind
+which only grow in yellow soil. Look," and lifting the vegetables she
+revealed beneath row upon row of gold coin. "Examine it before you
+count," she said.
+
+He did so by biting pieces at hazard with his teeth and causing them
+to ring upon the marble table.
+
+"It is good," he said.
+
+"Quite so. Then count."
+
+So he and the clerk counted, even to the bottom of the basket, which
+was found to contain gold to the value of over eleven hundred
+sestertia.
+
+"So far well," he said, "but that is not enough."
+
+The buyer beckoned to the man with her who stood in the corner, his
+face hidden by the shadow, and he dragged forward the second basket,
+which he had already unstrapped from his shoulders. Here also were
+lettuces, and beneath the lettuces gold. When the full two thousand
+sestertia were counted, that is, over fifteen thousand pounds of our
+money, this second basket still remained more than a third full.
+
+"I ought to have run you up, madam," said the auctioneer, surveying
+the shining gold with greedy eyes.
+
+"Yes," she replied calmly, "if you had guessed the truth you might
+have done so. But who knows the truth, except myself?"
+
+"Are you a sorceress?" he asked.
+
+"Perhaps. What does it matter? At least, the gold will not melt. And,
+by the way, it is troublesome carrying so much of the stuff back
+again. Would you like a couple of handfuls for yourself, and say ten
+pieces for your clerk? Yes? Well, please first fill in that deed with
+the name that I shall give you and with your own as witness? Here it
+is--'Miriam, daughter of Demas and Rachel, born in the year of the
+death of Herod Agrippa.' Thank you. You have signed, and the clerk
+also, I think. Now I will take that roll.
+
+"One thing more, there is another door to this Receiving-house? With
+your leave I should prefer to go out that way, as my newly acquired
+property seems tired, and for one day has had enough of public notice.
+You will, I understand, give us a few minutes to depart before you
+return to the rostrum, and your clerk will be so courteous as to
+escort us out of the Forum. Now help yourself. Man, can't you make
+your hand larger than that? Well, it will suffice to pay for a summer
+holiday. I see a cloak there which may serve to protect this slave
+from the chill air of the night. In case it should be claimed, perhaps
+these five pieces will pay for it. Most noble and courteous sir, again
+I thank you. Young woman, throw this over your bare shoulders and your
+head; that necklace might tempt the dishonest.
+
+"Now, if our guide is ready we will be going. Slave, bring the basket,
+at the weight of which you need no longer groan, and you, young woman,
+strap on this other basket; it is as well that you should begin to be
+instructed in your domestic duties, for I tell you at once that having
+heard much of the skill of the Jews in those matters, I have bought
+you to be my cook and to attend to the dressing of my hair. Farewell,
+sir, farewell; may we never meet again."
+
+"Farewell," replied the astonished auctioneer, "farewell, my lady
+Mulier, who can afford to give two thousand sestertia for a cook! Good
+luck to you, and if you are always as liberal as this, may we meet
+once a month, say I. Yet have no fear," he added meaningly, "I know
+when I have been well treated and shall not seek you out--even to
+please Cæsar himself."
+
+Three minutes later, under the guidance of the clerk, who was as
+discreet as his master, they had passed, quite undisturbed, through
+various dark colonnades and up a flight of marble stairs.
+
+"Now you are out of the Forum, so go your ways," he said.
+
+They went, and the clerk stood watching them until they were round a
+corner, for he was young and curious, and to him this seemed the
+strangest comedy of the slave-market of which he had ever even heard.
+
+As he turned to go he found himself face to face with a tall man, in
+whom he recognized that merchant of Egypt who had bid for Pearl-Maiden
+up to the enormous total of fourteen hundred sestertia.
+
+"Friend," said Demetrius, "which way did your companions go?"
+
+"I don't know," answered the clerk.
+
+"Come, try to remember. Did they walk straight on, or turn to the
+left, or turn to the right? Fix your attention on these, it may help
+you," and once more that fortunate clerk found five gold pieces thrust
+into his hand.
+
+"I don't know that they help me," he said, for he wished to be
+faithful to his hire.
+
+"Fool," said Demetrius in a changed voice, "remember quickly, or here
+is something that will----" and he showed him a dagger glinting in his
+hand. "Now then, do you wish to go the same road as they carried the
+Jewish girl and the Eastern?"
+
+"They turned to the right," said the clerk sulkily. "It is the truth,
+but may that road you speak of be yours who draw knives on honest
+folk."
+
+With a bound Demetrius left his side, and for the second time the
+clerk stood still, watching him go.
+
+"A strange business," he said to himself, "but, perhaps my master was
+right and that old woman is a sorceress, or, perhaps, the young one is
+the sorceress, since all men seem ready to pay a tribe's tribute to
+get hold of her; or, perhaps, they are both sorceresses. A strange
+story, of which I should like to know the meaning, and so, I fancy,
+would the Prince Domitian when he comes to hear of it. Saturius, the
+chamberlain, has a fat place, but I would not take it to-night, no,
+not if it were given to me."
+
+Then that young man returned to the mart in time to hear his master
+knock down Lot thirteen, a very sweet-looking girl, to Saturius
+himself, who proposed, though with a doubtful heart, to take her to
+Domitian as a substitute.
+
+Meanwhile, Nehushta, Miriam and the steward Stephanus, disguised as a
+slave, went on as swiftly as they dared towards the palace of Marcus
+in the Via Agrippa. The two women held each other by the hand but said
+nothing; their hearts seemed too full for speech. Only the old steward
+kept muttering--"Two thousand sestertia! The savings of years! Two
+thousand sestertia for that bit of a girl! Surely the gods have
+smitten him mad."
+
+"Hold your peace, fool," said Nehushta at length. "At least, I am not
+mad; the property that went with her is worth more than the money."
+
+"Yes, yes," replied the aggrieved Stephanus, "but how will that
+benefit my master? You put it in her name. Well, it is no affair of
+mine, and at least this accursed basket is much lighter."
+
+Now they were at the side door of the house, which Stephanus was
+unlocking with his key.
+
+"Quick," said Nehushta, "I hear footsteps."
+
+The door opened and they passed in, but at that moment one went by
+them, pausing to look until the door closed again.
+
+"Who was that?" asked Stephanus nervously.
+
+"He whom they called Demetrius, the merchant of Alexandria, but whom
+once I knew by another name," answered Nehushta in a slow voice while
+Stephanus barred the door.
+
+They walked through the archway into an antechamber lit by a single
+lamp, leaving Stephanus still occupied with his bolts and chains. Here
+with a sudden motion Nehushta threw off her cloak and tore the veil
+from her brow. In another instant, uttering a low, crooning cry, she
+flung her long arms about Miriam and began to kiss her again and again
+on the face.
+
+"My darling," she moaned, "my darling."
+
+"Tell me what it all means, Nou," said the poor girl faintly.
+
+"It means that God has heard my prayers and suffered my old feet to
+overtake you in time, and provided the wealth to preserve you from a
+dreadful fate."
+
+"Whose wealth? Where am I?" asked Miriam.
+
+Nehushta made no answer, only she unstrapped the basket from Miriam's
+back and unclasped the cloak from about her shoulders. Then, taking
+her by the hand, she led her into a lighted passage and thence through
+a door into a great and splendid room spread with rich carpets and
+adorned with costly furniture and marble images. At the end of this
+room was a table lighted by two lamps, and on the further side of this
+table sat a man as though he were asleep, for his face was hidden upon
+his arms. Miriam saw him and clung to Nehushta trembling.
+
+"Hush!" whispered her guide, and they stood still in the shadow.
+
+The man lifted his head so that the light fell full upon it, and
+Miriam saw that it was Marcus. Marcus grown older and with a patch of
+grey hair upon his temple where the sword of Caleb had struck him,
+very worn and tired-looking also, but still Marcus and no other. He
+was speaking to himself.
+
+"I can bear it no longer," he said. "Thrice have I been to the gate
+and still no sign. Doubtless the plan has miscarried and by now she is
+in the palace of Domitian. I will go forth and learn the worst," and
+he rose from the table.
+
+"Speak to him," whispered Nehushta, pushing Miriam forward.
+
+She advanced into the circle of the lamplight, but as yet Marcus did
+not see her, for he had gone to the window-place to find a cloak that
+lay there. Then he turned and saw her. Before him in her robe of
+white, the soft light shining on her gentle loveliness, stood Miriam.
+He stared at her bewildered.
+
+"Do I dream?" he said.
+
+"Nay, Marcus," she answered in her sweet voice, "you do not dream. I
+am Miriam."
+
+In an instant he was at her side and held her in his arms, nor did she
+resist him, for after so many fears and sufferings they seemed to her
+a home.
+
+"Loose me, I pray you," she said at length, "I am faint, I can bear no
+more."
+
+At her entreaty he suffered her to sink upon the cushions of a couch
+that was at hand.
+
+"Tell me, tell me everything," he said.
+
+"Ask it of Nehushta," she answered, leaning back. "I am spent."
+
+Nehushta ran to her side and began to chafe her hands. "Let be with
+your questions," she said. "I bought her, that's enough. Ask that old
+huckster, Stephanus, the price. But first in the name of charity give
+her food. Those who have walked through a Triumph to end the day on
+the slave block need victuals."
+
+"It is here, it is here," Marcus said confusedly, "such as there is."
+Taking a lamp he led the way to a table that was placed in the shadow,
+where stood some meat and fruit with flagons of rich coloured wine and
+pure water and shallow silver cups to drink from.
+
+Putting her arm about Miriam's waist, Nehushta supported her to the
+table and sat her down upon one of the couches. Then she poured out
+wine and put it to her lips, and cut meat and made her swallow it till
+Miriam would touch no more. Now the colour came back to her face, and
+her eyes grew bright again, and resting there upon the couch, she
+listened while Nehushta told Marcus all the story of the slave sale.
+
+"Well done," he said, laughing in his old merry fashion, "well done,
+indeed! Oh! what favouring god put it into the head of that honest old
+miser, Stephanus, from year to year to hoard up all that sum of gold
+against an hour of sudden need which none could foresee!"
+
+"My God and hers," answered Nehushta solemnly, "to Whom if He give you
+space, you should be thankful, which, by the way, is more than
+Stephanus is, who has seen so much of your savings squandered in an
+hour."
+
+"Your savings?" said Miriam, looking up. "Did you buy me, Marcus?"
+
+"I suppose so, beloved," he answered.
+
+"Then, then, I am your slave?"
+
+"Not so, Miriam," he replied nervously. "As you know well, it is I who
+am yours. All I ask of you is that you should become my wife."
+
+"That cannot be, Marcus," she answered in a kind of cry. "You know
+that it cannot be."
+
+His face turned pale.
+
+"After all that has come and gone between us, Miriam, do you still say
+so?"
+
+"I still say so."
+
+"You could give your life for me, and yet you will not give your life
+to me?"
+
+"Yes, Marcus."
+
+"Why? Why?"
+
+"For the reasons that I gave you yonder by the banks of Jordan;
+because those who begat me laid on me the charge that I should marry
+none who is not a Christian. How then can I marry you?"
+
+Marcus thought a moment.
+
+"Does the book of your law forbid it?" he asked.
+
+She shook her head. "No, but the dead forbid it, and rather will I
+join them than break their command."
+
+Again Marcus thought and spoke.
+
+"Well, then, since I must, I will become a Christian."
+
+She looked at him sadly and answered:
+
+"It is not enough. Do you remember what I told you far away in the
+village of the Essenes, that this is no matter of casting incense on
+an altar, but rather one of a changed spirit. When you can say those
+words from your heart as well as with your lips, then, Marcus, I will
+listen to you, but unless God calls you this you can never do."
+
+"What then do you propose?" he asked.
+
+"I? I have not had time to think. To go away, I suppose."
+
+"To Domitian?" he queried. "Nay, forgive me, but a sore heart makes
+bitter lips."
+
+"I am glad you asked forgiveness for those words, Marcus," she said
+quivering. "What need is there to insult a slave?"
+
+The word seemed to suggest a new train of thought to Marcus.
+
+"Yes," he said, "a slave--my slave whom I have bought at a great
+price. Well, why should I let you go? I am minded to keep you."
+
+"Marcus, you can keep me if you will, but then your sin against your
+own honour will be greater even than your sin against me."
+
+"Sin!" he said, passionately. "What sin? You say you cannot marry me,
+not because you do not wish it, if I understand you right, but for
+other reasons which have weight, at any rate with you. But the dead
+give no command as to whom you should love."
+
+"No, my love is my own, but if it is not lawful it can be denied."
+
+"Why should it be denied?" he asked softly and coming towards her. "Is
+there not much between you and me? Did not you, brave and blessed
+woman that you are, risk your life for my sake in the Old Tower at
+Jerusalem? Did you not for my sake stand there upon the gate Nicanor
+to perish miserably? And I, though it be little, have I not done
+something for you? Have I not so soon as your message reached me,
+journeyed here to Rome, at the cost, perhaps, of what I value more
+than life--my honour?"
+
+"Your honour?" she asked. "Why your honour?"
+
+"Because those who have been taken prisoner by the enemy and escaped
+are held to be cowards among the Romans," he answered bitterly, "and
+it may be that such a lot awaits me."
+
+"Coward! You a coward, Marcus?"
+
+"Aye. When it is known that I live, that is what my enemies will call
+me who lived on for your sake, Miriam--for the sake of a woman who
+denies me."
+
+"Oh!" she said, "this is bitter. Now I remember and understand what
+Gallus meant."
+
+"Then will you still deny me? Must I suffer thus in vain? Think, had
+it not been for you I could have stayed afar until the thing was
+forgotten, that is, if I still chose to live; but now, because of you,
+things are thus, and yet, Miriam--you deny me," and he put his arms
+about her and drew her to his breast.
+
+She did not struggle, she had no strength, only she wrung her hands
+and sobbed, saying:
+
+"What shall I do? Woe is me, what shall I do?"
+
+"Do?" said the voice of Nehushta, speaking clear as a clarion from the
+shadows. "Do your duty, girl, and leave the rest to Heaven."
+
+"Silence, accursed woman!" gasped Marcus, turning pale with anger.
+
+"Nay," she answered, "I will not be silent. Listen, Roman; I like you
+well, as you have reason to know, seeing that it was I who nursed you
+back to life, when for one hour's want of care you must have died. I
+like you well, and above everything on earth I wish that ere my eyes
+shut for the last time they may see your hand in her hand, and her
+hand in your hand, man and wife before the face of all men. Yet I tell
+you that now indeed you are a coward in a deeper fashion than that the
+Romans dream of; you are a coward who try to work upon the weakness of
+this poor girl's loving heart, who try in the hour of her sore
+distress to draw her from the spirit, if not from the letter, of her
+duty. So great a coward are you that you remind her even that she is
+your slave and threaten to deal with her as you heathen deal with
+slaves. You put a gloss upon the truth; you try to filch the fruit you
+may not pluck; you say 'you may not marry me, but you are my property,
+and therefore if you give way to your master it is no sin.' I tell you
+it is a sin, doubly a sin, since you would bind the weight of it on
+her back as well as on your own, and a sin that in this way or in that
+would bring its reward to both of you."
+
+"Have you finished?" asked Marcus coldly, but suffering Miriam to slip
+from his arms back upon the couch.
+
+"No, I have not finished; I spoke of the fruits of evil; now as my
+heart prompts me I speak of the promise of good. Let this woman go
+free as you have the power to do; strike the chains off her neck and
+take back the price that you have paid for her, since she has property
+which will discharge it to the last farthing, which property to-day
+stands in her name and can be conveyed to you. Then, go search the
+Scriptures and see if you can find no message in them. If you find it,
+well and good, then take her with a clean heart and be happy. If you
+find it not, well and good, then leave her with a clean heart and be
+sorrowful, for so it is decreed. Only in this matter do not dare to be
+double-minded, lest the last evil overtake you and her, and your
+children and hers. Now I have done, and, my lord Marcus, be so good as
+to signify your pleasure to your slave, Pearl-Maiden, and your
+servant, Nehushta the Libyan."
+
+Marcus began to walk up and down the room, out of the light into the
+shadow, out of the shadow into the light. Presently he halted, and the
+two women watching saw that his face was drawn and ashen, like the
+face of an old man.
+
+"My pleasure," he said vacantly, "--that is a strange word on my lips
+to-night, is it not? Well, Nehushta, you have the best of the
+argument. All you say is quite true, if a little over-coloured. Of
+course, Miriam is quite right not to marry me if she has scruples,
+and, of course, I should be quite wrong to take advantage of the
+accident of my being able to purchase her in the slave-ring. I think
+that is all I have to say. Miriam, I free you, as indeed I remember I
+promised the Essenes that I would do. Since no one knows you belong to
+me, I suppose that no formal ceremony will be necessary. It is a
+manumission 'inter amicos,' as the lawyers say, but quite valid. As to
+the title to the Tyre property, I accept it in payment of the debt,
+but I beg that you will keep it a while on my behalf, for, at present,
+there might be trouble about transferring it into my name. Now, good-
+night. Nehushta will take you to her room, Miriam, and to-morrow you
+can depart whither you will. I wish you all fortune, and--why do you
+not thank me? Under the circumstances, it would be kind."
+
+But Miriam only burst into a flood of tears.
+
+"What will you do, Marcus? Oh! what will you do?" she sobbed.
+
+"In all probability, things which I would rather you did not know of,"
+he answered bitterly, "or I may take it into my head to accept the
+suggestion of our friend, Nehushta, and begin to search those
+Scriptures of which I have heard so much; that seem, by the way,
+specially designed to prevent the happiness of men and women." Then he
+added fiercely, "Go, girl, go at once, for if you stand there weeping
+before me any longer, I tell you that I shall change my mind, and as
+Nehushta says, imperil the safety of your soul, and of my own--which
+does not matter."
+
+So Miriam stumbled from the room and through the curtained doorway. As
+Nehushta followed her Marcus caught her by the arm.
+
+"I have half a mind to murder you," he said, quietly.
+
+The old Libyan only laughed.
+
+"All I have said is true and for your own good, Marcus," she answered,
+"and you will live to know it."
+
+"Where will you take her?"
+
+"I don't know yet, but Christians always have friends."
+
+"You will let me hear of her."
+
+"Surely, if it is safe."
+
+"And if she needs help you will tell me?"
+
+"Surely, and if you need her help, and it can be done, I will bring
+her to you."
+
+"Then may I need help soon," he said. "Begone."
+
+
+
+                             CHAPTER XXV
+
+                        THE REWARD OF SATURIUS
+
+Meanwhile, in one of the palaces of the Cæsars not far from the
+Capitol, was being enacted another and more stormy scene. It was the
+palace of Domitian, whither, the bewildering pomp of the Triumph
+finished at last, the prince had withdrawn himself in no happy mood.
+That day many things had happened to vex him. First and foremost, as
+had been brought home to his mind from minute to minute throughout the
+long hours, its glory belonged not to himself, not even to his father,
+Vespasian, but to his brother, the conqueror of the Jews. Titus he had
+always hated, Titus, who was as beloved of mankind for his virtues,
+such as virtues were in that age, as he, Domitian, was execrated for
+his vices. Now Titus had returned after a brilliant and successful
+campaign to be crowned as Cæsar, to be accepted as the sharer of his
+father's government, and to receive the ovations of the populace,
+while his brother Domitian must ride almost unnoted behind his
+chariot. The plaudits of the roaring mob, the congratulations of the
+Senate, the homage of the knights and subject princes, the offerings
+of foreign kings, all laid at the feet of Titus, filled him with a
+jealousy that went nigh to madness. Soothsayers had told him, it was
+true, that his hour would come, that he would live and reign after
+Vespasian and Titus had gone down, both of them, to Hades. But even if
+they spoke the truth this hour seemed a long way off.
+
+Also there were other things. At the great sacrifice before the temple
+of Jupiter, his place had been set too far back where the people could
+not see him; at the feast which followed the master of the ceremonies
+had neglected, or had forgotten, to pour a libation in his honour.
+
+Further, the beautiful captive, Pearl-Maiden, had appeared in the
+procession unadorned by the costly girdle which he had sent her;
+while, last of all, the different wines that he had drunk had
+disagreed with him, so that because of them, or of the heat of the
+sun, he suffered from the headache and sickness to which he was
+liable. Pleading this indisposition as an excuse, Domitian left the
+banquet very early, and attended by his slaves and musicians retired
+to his own palace.
+
+Here his spirits revived somewhat, since he knew that before long his
+chamberlain, Saturius, would appear with the lovely Jewish maiden upon
+whom he had set his fancy. This at least was certain, for he had
+arranged that the auction should be held that evening and instructed
+him to buy her at all costs, even for a thousand sestertia. Indeed,
+who would dare to bid for a slave that the Prince Domitian desired?
+
+Learning that Saturius had not yet arrived, he went to his private
+chambers, and to pass away the time commanded his most beautiful
+slaves to dance before him, where he inflamed himself by drinking more
+wine of a vintage that he loved. As the fumes of the strong liquor
+mounted to his brain the pains in his head ceased, at any rate for a
+while. Very soon he became half-drunk, and as was his nature when in
+drink, savage. One of the dancing slaves stumbled and growing nervous
+stepped out of time, whereon he ordered the poor half-naked girl to be
+scourged before him by the hands of her own companions. Happily for
+her, however, before the punishment began a slave arrived with the
+intelligence that Saturius waited without.
+
+"What, alone?" said the prince, springing to his feet.
+
+"Nay, lord," said the slave, "there is a woman with him."
+
+At this news instantly his ill-temper was forgotten.
+
+"Let that girl go," he said, "and bid her be more careful another
+time. Away, all the lot of you, I wish to be private. Now, slave, bid
+the worthy Saturius enter with his charge."
+
+Presently the curtains were drawn apart and through them came Saturius
+rubbing his hands and smiling somewhat nervously, followed by a woman
+wrapped in a long cloak and veiled. He began to offer the customary
+salutations, but Domitian cut him short.
+
+"Rise, man," he said. "That sort of thing is very well in public, but
+I don't want it here. So you have got her," he added, eyeing the
+draped form in the background.
+
+"Yes," replied Saturius doubtfully.
+
+"Good, your services shall be remembered. You were ever a discreet and
+faithful agent. Did the bidding run high?"
+
+"Oh! my lord, enormous, ee--normous. I never heard such bidding," and
+he stretched out his hands.
+
+"Impertinence! Who dared to compete with me?" remarked Domitian.
+"Well, what did you have to give?"
+
+"Fifty sestertia, my lord."
+
+"Fifty sestertia?" answered Domitian with an air of relief. "Well, of
+course it is enough, but I have known beautiful maidens fetch more. By
+the way, dear one," he went on, addressing the veiled woman, "you
+must, I fear, be tired after all that weary, foolish show."
+
+The "dear one" making no audible reply, Domitian went on:
+
+"Modesty is pleasing in a maid, but now I pray you, forget it for
+awhile. Unveil yourself, most beautiful, that I may behold that
+loveliness for which my heart has ached these many days. Nay, that
+task shall be my own," and he advanced somewhat unsteadily towards his
+prize.
+
+Saturius thought that he saw his chance. Domitian was so intoxicated
+that it would be useless to attempt to explain matters that night.
+Clearly he should retire as soon as possible.
+
+"Most noble prince and patron," he began, "my duty is done, with your
+leave I will withdraw."
+
+"By no means, by no means," hiccupped Domitian, "I know that you are
+an excellent judge of beauty, most discriminating Saturius, and I
+should like to talk over the points of this lady with you. You know,
+dear Saturius, that I am not selfish, and to tell the truth, which you
+won't mind between friends--who could be jealous of a wizened, last
+year's walnut of a man like you? Not I, Saturius, not I, whom
+everybody acknowledges to be the most beautiful person in Rome, much
+better looking than Titus is, although he does call himself Cæsar. Now
+for it. Where's the fastening? Saturius, find the fastening. Why do
+you tie up the poor girl like an Egyptian corpse and prevent her lord
+and master from looking at her?"
+
+As he spoke the slave did something to the back of her head and the
+veil fell to the ground, revealing a girl of very pleasing shape and
+countenance, but who, as might be expected, looked most weary and
+frightened. Domitian stared at her with his bleared and wicked eyes,
+while a puzzled expression grew upon his face.
+
+"Very odd!" he said, "but she seems to have changed! I thought her
+eyes were blue, and that she had curling black hair. Now they are dark
+and she has straight hair. Where's the necklace, too? Where's the
+necklace? Pearl-Maiden, what have you done with your necklace? Yes,
+and why didn't you wear the girdle I sent you to-day?"
+
+"Sir," answered the Jewess, "I never had a necklace----"
+
+"My lord Domitian," began Saturius with a nervous laugh, "there is a
+mistake--I must explain. This girl is not Pearl-Maiden. Pearl-Maiden
+fetched so great a price that it was impossible that I should buy her,
+even for you----"
+
+He stopped, for suddenly Domitian's face had become terrible. All the
+drunkenness had left it, to be replaced by a mask of savage cruelty
+through which glared the pale and glittering eyes. The man appeared as
+he was, half satyr and half fiend.
+
+"A mistake----" he said. "Oh! a mistake? And I have been counting on
+her all these weeks, and now some other man has taken her from me--the
+prince Domitian. And you--you dare to come to me with this tale, and
+to bring this slut with you instead of my Pearl-Maiden----" and at the
+thought he fairly sobbed in his drunken, disappointed rage. Then he
+stepped back and began to clap his hands and call aloud.
+
+Instantly slaves and guards rushed into the chamber, thinking that
+their lord was threatened with some evil.
+
+"Men," he said, "take that woman and kill her. No, it might make a
+stir, as she was one of Titus's captives. Don't kill her, thrust her
+into the street."
+
+The girl was seized by the arms and dragged away.
+
+"Oh! my lord," began Saturius.
+
+"Silence, man, I am coming to you. Seize him, and strip him. Oh! I
+know you are a freedman and a citizen of Rome. Well, soon you shall be
+a citizen of Hades, I promise you. Now, bring the heavy rods and beat
+him till he dies."
+
+The dreadful order was obeyed, and for a while nothing was heard save
+the sound of heavy blows and the smothered moans of the miserable
+Saturius.
+
+"Wretches," yelled the Imperial brute, "you are playing, you do not
+hit hard enough. I will teach you how to hit," and snatching a rod
+from one of the slaves he rushed at his prostrate chamberlain, the
+others drawing back to allow their master to show his skill in
+flogging.
+
+Saturius saw Domitian come, and knew that unless he could change his
+purpose in another minute the life would be battered out of him. He
+struggled to his knees.
+
+"Prince," he cried, "hearken ere you strike. You can kill me if you
+will who are justly angered, and to die at your hands is an honour
+that I do not merit. Yet, dread lord, remember that if you slay me
+then you will never find that Pearl-Maiden whom you desire."
+
+Domitian paused, for even in his fury he was cunning. "Doubtless," he
+thought, "the knave knows where the girl is. Perhaps even he has
+hidden her away for himself."
+
+"Ah!" he said aloud, quoting the vulgar proverb, "'the rod is the
+mother of reason.' Well, can you find her?"
+
+"Surely, if I have time. The man who can afford to pay two thousand
+sestertia for a single slave cannot easily be hidden."
+
+"Two thousand sestertia!" exclaimed Domitian astonished. "Tell me that
+story. Slaves, give Saturius his robe and fall back--no, not too far,
+he may be treacherous."
+
+The chamberlain threw the garment over his bleeding shoulders and
+fastened it with a trembling hand. Then he told his tale, adding:
+
+"Oh! my lord, what could I do? You have not enough money at hand to
+pay so huge a sum."
+
+"Do, fool? Why you should have bought her on credit and left me to
+settle the price afterwards. Oh! never mind Titus, I could have
+outwitted him. But the mischief is done; now for the remedy, so far as
+it can be remedied," he added, grinding his teeth.
+
+"That I must seek to-morrow, lord."
+
+"To-morrow? And what will you do to-morrow?"
+
+"To-morrow I will find where the girl's gone, or try to, and then--why
+he who has bought her might die and--the rest will be easy."
+
+"Die he surely shall be who has dared to rob Domitian of his darling,"
+answered the prince with an oath. "Well, hearken, Saturius, for this
+night you are spared, but be sure that if you fail for the second time
+you also shall die, and after a worse fashion than I promised you. Now
+go, and to-morrow we will take counsel. Oh! ye gods, why do you deal
+so hardly with Domitian? My soul is bruised and must be comforted with
+poesy. Rouse that Greek from his bed and send him to me. He shall read
+to me of the wrath of Achilles when they robbed him of his Briseis,
+for the hero's lot is mine."
+
+So this new Achilles departed, now that his rage had left him, weeping
+maudlin tears of disappointed passion, to comfort his "bruised soul"
+with the immortal lines of Homer, for when he was not merely a brute
+Domitian fancied himself a poet. It was perhaps as well for his peace
+of mind that he could not see the face of Saturius, as the chamberlain
+comforted his bruised shoulders with some serviceable ointment, or
+hear the oath which that useful and industrious officer uttered as he
+sought his rest, face downwards, since for many days thereafter he was
+unable to lie upon his back. It was a very ugly oath, sworn by every
+god who had an altar in Rome, with the divinities of the Jews and the
+Christians thrown in, that in a day to come he would avenge Domitian's
+rods with daggers. Had the prince been able to do so, there might have
+risen in his mind some prescience of a certain scene, in which he must
+play a part on a far-off but destined night. He might have beheld a
+vision of himself, bald, corpulent and thin-legged, but wearing the
+imperial robes of Cæsar, rolling in a frantic struggle for life upon
+the floor of his bed-chamber, at death grips with one Stephanus, while
+an old chamberlain named Saturius drove a dagger again and again into
+his back, crying at each stroke:
+
+"Oho! That for thy rods, Cæsar! Oho! Dost remember the Pearl-Maiden?
+That for thy rods, Cæsar, and that--and that--and /that/----!"
+
+But Domitian, weeping himself to sleep over the tale of the wrongs of
+the god-like Achilles, which did but foreshadow those of his divine
+self, as yet thought nothing of the rich reward that time should bring
+him.
+
+
+
+On the morrow of the great day of the Triumph the merchant Demetrius
+of Alexandria, whom for many years we have known as Caleb, sat in the
+office of the store-house which he had hired for the bestowal of his
+goods in one of the busiest thoroughfares of Rome. Handsome, indeed,
+noble-looking as he was, and must always be, his countenance presented
+a sorry sight. From hour to hour during the previous day he had fought
+a path through the dense crowds that lined the streets of Rome, to
+keep as near as might be to Miriam while she trudged her long route of
+splendid shame.
+
+Then came the evening, when, with the other women slaves, she was put
+up to auction in the Forum. To prepare for this sale Caleb had turned
+almost all his merchandise into money, for he knew that Domitian was a
+purchaser, and guessed that the price of the beautiful Pearl-Maiden,
+of whom all the city was talking, would rule high. The climax we know.
+He bid to the last coin that he possessed or could raise, only to find
+that others with still greater resources were in the market. Even the
+agent of the prince had been left behind, and Miriam was at last
+knocked down to some mysterious stranger woman dressed like a peasant.
+The woman was veiled and disguised; she spoke with a feigned voice and
+in a strange tongue, but from the beginning Caleb knew her. Incredible
+as it might seem, that she should be here in Rome, he was certain that
+she was Nehushta, and no other.
+
+That Nehushta should buy Miriam was well, but how came she by so vast
+a sum of money, here in a far-off land? In short, for whom was she
+buying? Indeed, for whom would she buy? He could think of one only--
+Marcus. But he had made inquiries and Marcus was not in Rome. Indeed
+he had every reason to believe that his rival was long dead, that his
+bones were scattered among the tens of thousands which whitened the
+tumbled ruins of the Holy City in Judæa. How could it be otherwise? He
+had last seen him wounded, as he thought to death--and he should know,
+for the stroke fell from his own hand--lying senseless in the Old
+Tower in Jerusalem. Then he vanished away, and where Marcus had been
+Miriam was found. Whither did he vanish, and if it was true that she
+succeeded in hiding him in some secret hole, what chance was there
+that he could have lived on without food and unsuccoured? Also if he
+lived, why had he not appeared long before? Why was not so wealthy a
+Patrician and distinguished a soldier riding in the triumphant train
+of Titus?
+
+With black despair raging in his breast, he, Caleb, had seen Miriam
+knocked down to the mysterious basket-laden stranger whom none could
+recognise. He had seen her depart together with the auctioneer and a
+servant, also basket-laden, to the office of the receiving house,
+whither he had attempted to follow upon some pretext, only to be
+stopped by the watchman. After this he hung about the door until he
+saw the auctioneer appear alone, when it occurred to him that the
+purchaser and the purchased must have departed by some other exit,
+perhaps in order to avoid further observation. He ran round the
+building to find himself confronted only by the empty, star-lit spaces
+of the Forum. Searching them with his eyes, for one instant it seemed
+to him that far away he caught sight of a little knot of figures
+climbing a black marble stair in the dark shadow of some temple. He
+sped across the open space, he ran up the great stair, to find at the
+head of it a young man in whom he recognised the auctioneer's clerk,
+gazing along a wide street as empty as was the stair.
+
+The rest is known to us. He followed, and twice perceived the little
+group of dark-robed figures hurrying round distant corners. Once he
+lost them altogether, but a passer-by on his road to some feast told
+him courteously enough which way they had gone. On he ran almost at
+hazard, to be rewarded in the end by the sight of them vanishing
+through a narrow doorway in the wall. He came to the door and saw that
+it was very massive. He tried it even, it was locked. Then he thought
+of knocking, only to remember that to state his business would
+probably be to meet his death. At such a place and hour those who
+purchased beautiful slaves might have a sword waiting for the heart of
+an unsuccessful rival who dared to follow them to their haunts.
+
+Caleb walked round the house, to find that it was a palace which
+seemed to be deserted, although he thought that he saw light shining
+through one of the shuttered windows. Now he knew the place again. It
+was here that the procession had halted and one of the Roman soldiers
+who had committed the crime of being taken captive escaped the taunts
+of the crowd by hurling himself beneath the wheel of a great pageant
+car. Yes, there was no doubt of it, for his blood still stained the
+dusty stones and by it lay a piece of the broken distaff with which,
+in their mockery, they had girded the poor man. They were gentle
+folk, these Romans! Why, measured by this standard, some such doom
+would have fallen upon his rival, Marcus, for Marcus also was taken
+prisoner--by himself. The thought made Caleb smile, since well he knew
+that no braver soldier lived. Then came other thoughts that pressed
+him closer. Somewhere in that great dead-looking house was Miriam, as
+far off from him as though she were still in Judæa. There was Miriam--
+and who was with her? The new-found lord who had spent two thousand
+sestertia on her purchase? The thought of it almost turned his brain.
+
+Heretofore, the life of Caleb had been ruled by two passions--ambition
+and the love of Miriam. He had aspired to be ruler of the Jews,
+perhaps their king, and to this end had plotted and fought for the
+expulsion of the Romans from Judæa. He had taken part in a hundred
+desperate battles. Again and again he had risked his life; again and
+again he had escaped. For one so young he had reached high rank, till
+he was numbered among the first of their captains.
+
+Then came the end, the last hideous struggle and the downfall. Once
+more his life was left in him. Where men perished by the hundred
+thousand he escaped, winning safety, not through the desire of it, but
+because of the love of Miriam which drove him on to follow her.
+Happily for himself he had hidden money, which, after the gift of his
+race, he was able to turn to good account, so that now he, who had
+been a leader in war and council, walked the world as a merchant in
+Eastern goods. All that glittering past had gone from him; he might
+become wealthy, but, Jew as he was, he could never be great nor fill
+his soul with the glory that it craved. There remained to him, then,
+nothing but this passion for one woman among the millions who dwelt
+beneath the sun, the girl who had been his playmate, whom he loved
+from the beginning, although she had never loved him, and whom he
+would love until the end.
+
+Why had she not loved him? Because of his rival, that accursed Roman,
+Marcus, the man whom time upon time he had tried to kill, but who had
+always slipped like water from his hands. Well, if she was lost to him
+she was lost to Marcus also, and from that thought he would take such
+comfort as he might. Indeed he had no other, for during those dreadful
+hours the fires of all Gehenna raged in his soul. He had lost--but who
+had found her?
+
+Throughout the long night Caleb tramped round the cold, empty-looking
+palace, suffering perhaps as he had never suffered before, a thing to
+be pitied of gods and men. At length the dawn broke and the light
+crept down the splendid street, showing here and there groups of weary
+and half-drunken revellers staggering homewards from the feast,
+flushed men and dishevelled women. Others appeared also, humble and
+industrious citizens going to their daily toil. Among them were people
+whose business it was to clean the roads, abroad early this morning,
+for after the great procession they thought that they might find
+articles of value let fall by those who walked in it, or by the
+spectators. Two of these scavengers began sweeping near the place
+where Caleb stood, and lightened their toil by laughing at him, asking
+him if he had spent his night in the gutter and whether he knew his
+way home. He replied that he waited for the doors of the house to be
+opened.
+
+"Which house?" they asked. "The 'Fortunate House?'" and they pointed
+to the marble palace of Marcus, which, as Caleb now saw for the first
+time, had these words blazoned in gold letters on its portico.
+
+He nodded.
+
+"Well," said one of them, "you will wait for some time, for that house
+is no longer fortunate. Its owner is dead, killed in the wars, and no
+one knows who his heir may be."
+
+"What was his name?" he asked.
+
+"Marcus, the favourite of Nero, also called the Fortunate."
+
+Then, with a bitter curse upon his lips Caleb turned and walked away.
+
+
+
+                             CHAPTER XXVI
+
+                       THE JUDGMENT OF DOMITIAN
+
+Two hours had gone by and Caleb, with fury in his heart, sat brooding
+in the office attached to the warehouse that he had hired. At that
+moment he had but one desire--to kill his successful rival, Marcus.
+Marcus had escaped and returned to Rome; of that there could be no
+doubt. He, one of the wealthiest of its patricians, had furnished the
+vast sum which enabled old Nehushta to buy the coveted Pearl-Maiden in
+the slave-ring. Then his newly acquired property had been taken to
+this house, where he awaited her. This then was the end of their long
+rivalry; for this he, Caleb, had fought, toiled, schemed and suffered.
+Oh! rather than such a thing should be, in that dark hour of his soul,
+he would have seen her cast to the foul Domitian, for Domitian, at
+least, she would have hated, whereas Marcus, he knew, she loved.
+
+Now there remained nothing but revenge. Revenged he must be, but how?
+He might dog Marcus and murder him, only then his own life would be
+hazarded, since he knew well the fate that awaited the foreigner, and
+most of all the Jew, who dared to lift his hand against a Roman noble,
+and if he hired others to do the work they might bear evidence against
+him. Now Caleb did not wish to die; life seemed the only good that he
+had left. Also, while he lived he might still win Miriam--after his
+rival had ceased to live. Doubtless, then she would be sold with his
+other slaves, and he could buy her at the rate such tarnished goods
+command. No, he would do nothing to run himself into danger. He would
+wait, wait and watch his opportunity.
+
+It was near at hand, for of old as to-day the king of evil was ever
+ready to aid those who called upon him with sufficient earnestness.
+Indeed, even as Caleb sat there in his office, there came a knock upon
+the door.
+
+"Open!" he cried savagely, and through it entered a small man with
+close-cropped hair and a keen, hard face which seemed familiar to him.
+Just now, however, that face was somewhat damaged, for one of the eyes
+had been blackened and a wound upon the temple was strapped with
+plaster. Also its owner walked lame and continually twitched his
+shoulders as though they gave him uneasiness. The stranger opened his
+lips to speak, and Caleb knew him at once. He was the chamberlain of
+Domitian who had been outbid by Nehushta in the slave ring.
+
+"Greeting, noble Saturius," he said. "Be seated, I pray, for it seems
+to pain you to stand."
+
+"Yes, yes," answered the chamberlain, "still I had rather stand. I met
+with an accident last night, a most unpleasant accident," and he
+coughed as though to cover up some word that leapt to his lips. "You
+also, worthy Demetrius--that is your name, is it not?" he added,
+eyeing him keenly--"look as though you had not slept well."
+
+"No," answered Caleb, "I also met with an accident--oh! nothing that
+you can see--a slight internal injury which is, I fear, likely to
+prove troublesome. Well, noble Saturius, how can I--serve you?
+Anything in the way of Eastern shawls, for instance?"
+
+"I thank you, friend, no. I come to speak of shoulders, not shawls,"
+and he twitched his own--"women's shoulders, I mean. A remarkably fine
+pair for their size had that Jewish captive, by the way, in whom you
+seemed to take an interest last night--to the considerable extent
+indeed of fourteen hundred sestertia."
+
+"Yes," said Caleb, "they were well shaped."
+
+Then followed a pause.
+
+"Perhaps as I am a busy man," suggested Caleb presently, "you would
+not mind coming to the point."
+
+"Certainly, I was but waiting for your leave. As you may have heard, I
+represent a very noble person----"
+
+"Who, I think, took an interest in the captive to the extent of
+fifteen hundred sestertia," suggested Caleb.
+
+"Quite so--and whose interest unfortunately remains unabated, or
+rather, I should say, that it is transferred."
+
+"To the gentleman whose deep feeling induced him to provide five
+hundred more?" queried Caleb.
+
+"Precisely. What intuition you have! It is a gift with which the East
+endows her sons."
+
+"Suppose you put the matter plainly, worthy Saturius."
+
+"I will, excellent Demetrius. The great person to whom I have alluded
+was so moved when he heard of his loss that he actually burst into
+tears, and even reproached me, whom he loves more dearly than his
+brother----"
+
+"He might easily do that, if all reports are true," said Caleb, drily,
+adding, "Was it then that you met with your accident?"
+
+"It was. Overcome at the sight of my royal master's grief, I fell
+down."
+
+"Into a well, I suppose, since you managed to injure your eye, your
+back, and your leg all at once. There--I understand--these things will
+happen--in the households of the Great where the floors are so
+slippery that the most wary feet may slide. But that does not console
+the sufferer whose hurt remains, does it?"
+
+"No," answered Saturius with a snarl, "but until he is in a position
+to relay the floors, he must find chalk for his sandals and ointment
+for his back. I want the purchaser's name, and thought perhaps that
+you might have it, for the old woman has vanished, and that fool of an
+auctioneer knows absolutely nothing."
+
+"Why do you want his name?"
+
+"Because Domitian wants his head. An unnatural desire indeed that
+devours him; still one which, to be frank, I find it important to
+satisfy."
+
+Of a sudden a great light seemed to shine in Caleb's mind, it was as
+though a candle had been lit in a dark room.
+
+"Ah!" he said. "And supposing I can show him how to get this head,
+even how to get it without any scandal, do you think that in return he
+would leave me the lady's hand? You see I knew her in her youth and
+take a brotherly interest in her."
+
+"Quite so, just like Domitian and the two thousand sestertia man and,
+indeed, half the male population of Rome, who, when they saw her
+yesterday were moved by the same family feeling. Well, I don't see why
+he shouldn't. You see my master never cared for pearls that were not
+perfectly white, or admired ladies upon whom report cast the slightest
+breath of scandal. But he is of a curiously jealous disposition, and
+it is, I think, the head that he requires, not the hand."
+
+"Had you not better make yourself clear upon the point before we go
+any further?" asked Caleb. "Otherwise I do not feel inclined to
+undertake a very difficult and dangerous business."
+
+"With pleasure. Now would you let me have your demands, in writing,
+perhaps. Oh! of course, I understand--to be answered in writing."
+
+Caleb took parchment and pen and wrote:
+
+ "A free pardon, with full liberty to travel, live and trade
+  throughout the Roman empire, signed by the proper authorities, to
+  be granted to one Caleb, the son of Hilliel, for the part he took
+  in the Jewish war.
+
+ "A written promise, signed by the person concerned, that if the
+  head he desires is put within his reach the Jewish slave named
+  Pearl-Maiden shall be handed over at once to Demetrius, the
+  merchant of Alexandria, whose property she shall become absolutely
+  and without question."
+
+"That's all," he said, giving the paper to Saturius. "The Caleb spoken
+of is a Jewish friend of mine to whom I am anxious to do a good turn,
+without whose help and evidence I should be quite unable to perform my
+share of the bargain. Being very shy and timid--his nerves were much
+shattered during the siege of Jerusalem--he will not stir without this
+authority, which, by the way, will require the signature of Titus
+Cæsar, duly witnessed. Well, that is merely an offering to friendship;
+of course /my/ fee is the reversion to the lady, whom I desire to
+restore to her relations, who mourn her loss in Judæa."
+
+"Precisely--quite so," replied Saturius. "Pray do not trouble to
+explain further. I have always found those of Alexandria most
+excellent merchants. Well, I hope to be back within two hours."
+
+"Mind you come alone. As I have told you, everything depends upon this
+Caleb, and if he is in any way alarmed there is an end of the affair.
+He only has a possible key to the mystery. Should it be lost your
+patron will never get his head, and I shall never get my hand."
+
+"Oh! bid the timid Caleb have no fear. Who would wish to harm a dirty
+Jewish deserter from his cause and people? Let him come out of his
+sewer and look upon the sun. The Cæsars do not war with carrion rats.
+Most worthy Demetrius, I go swiftly, as I hope to return again with
+all you need."
+
+"Good, most noble Saturius, and for both our sakes--remember that the
+palace floor is slippery, and do not get another fall, for it might
+finish you."
+
+"I am in deep waters, but I think that I can swim well," reflected
+Caleb as the door closed behind his visitor. "At any rate it gives me
+a chance who have no other, and that prince is playing for revenge,
+not love. What can Miriam be to him beyond the fancy of an hour, of
+which a thief has robbed him? Doubtless he wishes to kill the thief,
+but kings do not care for faded roses, which are only good enough to
+weave the chaplet of a merchant of Alexandria. So I cast for the last
+time, let the dice fall as it is fated."
+
+Very shortly afterwards in the palace of Domitian the dice began to
+fall. Humbly, most humbly, did that faithful chamberlain, Saturius,
+lay the results of his mission before his august master, Domitian, who
+suffering from a severe bilious attack that had turned his ruddy
+complexion to a dingy yellow, and made the aspect of his pale eyes
+more unpleasant than usual, was propped up among cushions, sniffing
+attar of roses and dabbing vinegar water upon his forehead.
+
+He listened indifferently to the tale of his jackal, until the full
+meaning of the terms asked by the mysterious Eastern merchant
+penetrated his sodden brain.
+
+"Why," he said, "the man wants Pearl-Maiden; that's his share, while
+mine is the life of the fellow who bought her, whoever he may be. Are
+you still mad, man, that you should dare to lay such a proposal before
+me? Don't you understand that I need both the woman and the blood of
+him who dared to cheat me out of her?"
+
+"Most divine prince, I understand perfectly, but this fish is only
+biting; he must be tempted or he will tell nothing."
+
+"Why not bring him here and torture him?"
+
+"I have thought of that, but those Jews are so obstinate. While you
+were twisting the truth out of him the other man would escape with the
+girl. Much better promise everything he asks and then----"
+
+"And then--what?"
+
+"And then forget your promises. What can be simpler?"
+
+"But he needs them in writing."
+
+"Let him have them in writing, my writing, which your divine self can
+repudiate. Only the pardon to Caleb, who I suppose is this Demetrius
+himself, can be signed by Titus. It will not affect you whether a Jew
+more or less has the right to trade in the Empire, if thereby you can
+win his services in an important matter. Then, when the time comes,
+you can net both your unknown rival and the lady, leaving our friend
+Demetrius to report the facts to her relatives in Judæa, for whom, as
+he states, he is alone concerned."
+
+"Saturius," said Domitian, growing interested, "you are not so foolish
+as I thought you were. Decidedly that trouble last night has quickened
+your wits. Be so good as to stop wriggling your shoulders, will you,
+it makes me nervous, and I wish that you would have that eye of yours
+painted. You know that I cannot bear the sight of black; it reminds
+me, who am by nature joyous and light-hearted as a child, of
+melancholy things. Now forge a letter for my, or rather for your
+signature, promising the reversion of Pearl-Maiden to this Demetrius.
+Then bear my greetings to Titus, begging his signature to an order
+granting the desired privileges to one Caleb, a Jew who fought against
+him at Jerusalem--with less success than I could have wished--whom I
+desire to favour."
+
+
+
+Three hours later Saturius presented himself for the second time in
+the office of the Alexandrian merchant.
+
+"Most worthy Demetrius," he said, "I congratulate you. Everything has
+been arranged as you wish. Here is the order, signed by Titus and duly
+witnessed, granting to you--I mean to your friend, Caleb--pardon for
+whatever he may have done in Judæa, and permission to live and trade
+anywhere that he may wish within the bounds of the Empire. I may tell
+you that it was obtained with great difficulty, since Titus, worn out
+with toil and glory, leaves this very day for his villa by the sea,
+where he is ordered by his physicians to rest three months, taking no
+part whatever in affairs. Does the document satisfy you?"
+
+Caleb examined the signatures and seals.
+
+"It seems to be in order," he said.
+
+"It is in order, excellent Demetrius. Caleb can now appear in the
+Forum, if it pleases him, and lecture upon the fall of Jerusalem for
+the benefit of the vulgar. Well, here also is a letter from the divine
+--or rather the half divine--Domitian to yourself, Demetrius of
+Alexandria, also witnessed by myself and sealed. It promises to you
+that if you give evidence enabling him to arrest that miscreant who
+dared to bid against him--no, do not be alarmed, the lady was not
+knocked down to you--you shall be allowed to take possession of her or
+to buy her at a reasonable valuation, not to exceed fifteen sestertia.
+That is as much as she will fetch now in the open market. Are you
+satisfied with this document?"
+
+Caleb read and scrutinised the letter.
+
+"The signatures of Domitian and of yourself as witness seem much
+alike," he remarked suspiciously.
+
+"Somewhat," replied Saturius, with an airy gesture. "In royal houses
+it is customary for chamberlains to imitate the handwriting of their
+imperial masters."
+
+"And their morals--no, they have none--their manners also," commented
+Caleb.
+
+"At the least," went on Saturius, "you will acknowledge the seals----"
+
+"Which might be borrowed. Well, I will take the risk, for if there is
+anything wrong about these papers I am sure that the prince Domitian
+would not like to see them exhibited in a court of law."
+
+"Good," answered Saturius, with a relief which he could not altogether
+conceal. "And now for the culprit's name."
+
+"The culprit's name," said Caleb, leaning forward and speaking slowly,
+"is Marcus, who served as one of Titus Cæsar's prefects of horse in
+the campaign of Judæa. He bought the lady Miriam, commonly known as
+Pearl-Maiden, by the agency of Nehushta, an old Libyan woman, who
+conveyed her to his house in the Via Agrippa, which is known as the
+'Fortunate House,' where doubtless, she now is."
+
+"Marcus," said Saturius. "Why, he was reported dead, and the matter of
+the succession to his great estates is now being debated, for he was
+the heir of his uncle, Caius, the pro-consul, who amassed a vast
+fortune in Spain. Also after the death of the said Caius, this Marcus
+was a favourite of the late divine Nero, who constituted him guardian
+of some bust of which he was enamoured. In short, he is a great man,
+if, as you say, he still lives, whom even Domitian will find it hard
+to meddle with. But how do you know all this?"
+
+"Through my friend Caleb. Caleb followed the black hag, Nehushta, and
+the beautiful Pearl-Maiden to the very house of Marcus, which he saw
+them enter. Marcus who was her lover, yonder in Judæa----"
+
+"Oh! never mind the rest of the story, I understand it all. But you
+have not yet shown that Marcus was in the house, and if he was, bad
+taste as it may have been to bid against the prince Domitian, well, at
+a public auction it is lawful."
+
+"Ye--es, but if Marcus has committed a crime, could he not be punished
+for that crime?"
+
+"Without doubt. But what crime has Marcus committed?"
+
+"The crime of being taken prisoner by the Jews and escaping from them
+with his life, for which, by an edict of Titus, whose laws are those
+of the Medes and Persians, the punishment is death, or at the least,
+banishment and degradation."
+
+"Well, and who can prove all this?"
+
+"Caleb can, because he took him prisoner."
+
+"And where," asked Saturius in exasperation, "where is this thrice
+accursed cur, Caleb?"
+
+"Here," answered Demetrius. "I am Caleb, O thrice blessed chamberlain,
+Saturius."
+
+"Indeed," said Saturius. "Well, that makes things more simple. And
+now, friend Demetrius--you prefer that name, do you not--what do you
+propose?"
+
+"I propose that the necessary documents should be procured, which, to
+your master, will not be difficult; that Marcus should be arrested in
+his house, put upon his trial and condemned under the edict of Titus,
+and that the girl, Pearl-Maiden, should be handed over to me, who will
+at once remove her from Rome."
+
+"Good," said Saturius. "Titus having gone, leaving Domitian in charge
+of military affairs, the thing, as it chances, is easy, though any
+sentence that may be passed must be confirmed by Cæsar himself. And
+now, again farewell. If our man is in Rome, he shall be taken
+to-night, and to-morrow your evidence may be wanted."
+
+"Will the girl be handed over to me then?"
+
+"I think so," replied Saturius, "but of course I cannot say for
+certain, as there may be legal difficulties in the way which would
+hinder her immediate re-sale. However, you may rely upon me to do the
+best I can for you."
+
+"It will be to your advantage," answered Caleb significantly. "Shall
+we say--fifty sestertia on receipt of the slave?"
+
+"Oh! if you wish it, if you wish it, for gifts cement the hearts of
+friends. On account? Well, to a man with many expenses, five sestertia
+always come in useful. You know what it is in these palaces, so little
+pay and so much to keep up. Thank you, dear Demetrius, I will give you
+and the lady a supper out of the money--when you get her," he added to
+himself as he left the office.
+
+
+
+When early on the following morning Caleb came to his warehouse from
+the dwelling where he slept, he found waiting for him two men dressed
+in the livery of Domitian, who demanded that he would accompany them
+to the palace of the prince.
+
+"What for?"
+
+"To give evidence in a trial," they said.
+
+Then he knew that he had made no mistake, that his rival was caught,
+and in the rage of his burning jealousy, such jealousy as only an
+Eastern can feel, his heart bounded with joy. Still, as he trudged
+onward through streets glittering in the morning sunlight, Caleb's
+conscience told him that not thus should this rival be overcome, that
+he who went to accuse the brave Marcus of cowardice was himself a
+coward, and that from the lie which he was about to act if not to
+speak, could spring no fruit of peace or happiness. But he was mad and
+blind. He could think only of Miriam--the woman whom he loved with all
+his passionate nature and whose life he had preserved at the risk of
+his own--fallen at last into the arms of his rival. He would wrench
+her thence, yes, even at the price of his own honour and of her life-
+long agony, and, if it might be, leave those arms cold in death, as
+often already he had striven to do. When Marcus was dead perhaps she
+would forgive him. At the least he would occupy his place. She would
+be his slave, to whom, notwithstanding all that had been, he would
+give the place of wife. Then, after a little while, seeing how good
+and tender he was to her, surely she must forget this Roman who had
+taken her girlish fancy and learn to love him.
+
+Now they were passing the door of the palace. In the outer hall
+Saturius met them and motioned to the slaves to stand back.
+
+"So you have them," said Caleb, eagerly.
+
+"Yes, or to be exact, one of them. The lady has vanished."
+
+Caleb staggered back a pace.
+
+"Vanished! Where?"
+
+"I wish that I could tell you. I thought that perhaps you knew. At
+least we found Marcus alone in his house, which he was about to leave,
+apparently to follow Titus. But come, the court awaits you."
+
+"If she has gone, why should I come?" said Caleb, hanging back.
+
+"I really don't know, but you must. Here, slaves, escort this
+witness."
+
+Then seeing that it was too late to change his mind, Caleb waved them
+back and followed Saturius. Presently they entered an inner hall,
+lofty, but not large. At the head of it, clad in the purple robes of
+his royal house, sat Domitian in a chair, while to his right and left
+were narrow tables, at which were gathered five or six Roman officers,
+those of Domitian's own bodyguard, bare-headed, but arrayed in their
+mail. Also there were two scribes with their tablets, a man dressed in
+a lawyer's robe, who seemed to fill the office of prosecutor, and some
+soldiers on guard.
+
+When Caleb entered, Domitian, who, notwithstanding his youthful, ruddy
+countenance, looked in a very evil mood, was engaged in talking
+earnestly to the lawyer. Glancing up, he saw him and asked:
+
+"Is that the Jew who gives evidence, Saturius?"
+
+"My lord, it is the man," answered the chamberlain; "also the other
+witness waits without."
+
+"Good. Then bring in the accused."
+
+There was a pause, till presently Caleb heard footsteps behind him and
+looked round to see Marcus advancing up the hall with a proud and
+martial air. Their eyes met, and for an instant Marcus stopped.
+
+"Oh!" he said aloud, "the Jew Caleb. Now I understand." Then he
+marched forward and gave the military salute to the prince.
+
+Domitian stared at him with hate in his pale eyes, and said
+carelessly:
+
+"Is this the accused? What is the charge?"
+
+"The charge is," said the lawyer, "that the accused Marcus, a prefect
+of horse serving with Titus Cæsar in Judæa, suffered himself to be
+taken prisoner by the Jews when in command of a large body of Roman
+troops, contrary to the custom of the army and to the edict issued by
+Titus Cæsar at the commencement of the siege of Jerusalem. This edict
+commanded that no soldier should be taken alive, and that any soldier
+who was taken alive and subsequently rescued, or who made good his
+escape, should be deemed worthy of death, or at the least of
+degradation from his rank and banishment. My lord Marcus, do you plead
+guilty to the charge?"
+
+"First, I ask," said Marcus, "what court is this before which I am put
+upon my trial? If I am to be tried I demand that it shall be by my
+general, Titus."
+
+"Then," said the prosecutor, "you should have reported yourself to
+Titus upon your arrival in Rome. Now he has gone to where he may not
+be troubled, leaving the charge of military matters in the hands of
+his Imperial brother, the Prince Domitian, who, with these officers,
+is therefore your lawful judge."
+
+"Perhaps," broke in Domitian with bitter malice, "the lord Marcus was
+too much occupied with other pursuits on his arrival in Rome to find
+time to explain his conduct to the Cæsar Titus."
+
+"I was about to follow him to do so when I was seized," said Marcus.
+
+"Then you put the matter off a little too long. Now you can explain it
+here," answered Domitian.
+
+Then the prosecutor took up the tale, saying that it had been
+ascertained on inquiry that the accused, accompanied by an old woman,
+arrived in Rome upon horseback early on the morning of the Triumph;
+that he went straight to his house, which was called "The House
+Fortunate," where he lay hid all day; that in the evening he sent out
+the old woman and a slave carrying on their backs a great sum of gold
+in baskets, with which gold he purchased a certain fair Jewish
+captive, known as Pearl-Maiden, at a public auction in the Forum. This
+Pearl-Maiden, it would seem, was taken to his house, but when he was
+arrested on the morrow neither she nor the old woman were found there.
+The accused, he might add, was arrested just as he was about to leave
+the house, as he stated, in order to report himself to Titus Cæsar,
+who had already departed from Rome. This was the case in brief, and to
+prove it he called a certain Jew named Caleb, who was now living in
+Rome, having received an amnesty given by the hand of Titus. This Jew
+was now a merchant who traded under the name of Demetrius.
+
+Then Caleb stood forward and told his tale. In answer to questions
+that were put to him, he related how he was in command of a body of
+the Jews which fought an action with the Roman troops at a place
+called the Old Tower, a few days before the capture of the Temple. In
+the course of this action he parleyed with a captain of the Romans,
+the Prefect Marcus, who now stood before him, and at the end of the
+parley challenged him to single combat. As Marcus refused the
+encounter and tried to run away, he struck him on the back with the
+back of his sword. Thereon a fight ensued in which he, the witness,
+had the advantage. Being wounded, the accused let fall his sword, sank
+to his knees and asked for mercy. The fray having now become general
+he, Caleb, dragged his prisoner into the Old Tower and returned to the
+battle.
+
+When he went back to the Tower it was to find that the captive had
+vanished, leaving in his place a lady who was known to the Romans as
+Pearl-Maiden, and who was afterwards taken by them and exposed for
+sale in the Forum, where she was purchased by an old woman whom he
+recognised as her nurse. He followed the maiden, having bid for her
+and being curious as to her destination, to a house in the Via
+Agrippa, which he afterwards learned was the palace of the accused
+Marcus. That was all he knew of the matter.
+
+Then the prosecutor called a soldier, who stated that he had been
+under the command of Marcus on the day in question. There he saw the
+Jew leader, whom he identified with Caleb, at the conclusion of a
+parley strike the accused, Marcus, on the back with the flat of his
+sword. After this ensued a fight, in which the Romans were repulsed.
+At the end of it, he saw their captain, Marcus, being led away
+prisoner. His sword had gone and blood was running from the side of
+his head.
+
+The evidence being concluded, Marcus was asked if he had anything to
+say in defence.
+
+"Much," he answered proudly, "when I am given a fair trial. I desire
+to call the men of my legion who were with me, none of whom I see here
+to-day except that man who has given evidence against me, a rogue
+whom, I remember, I caused to be scourged for theft, and dismissed his
+company. But they are in Egypt, so how can I summon them? As for the
+Jew, he is an old enemy of mine, who was guilty of murder in his
+youth, and whom once I overcame in a duel in Judæa, sparing his life.
+It is true that when my back was turned he struck me with his sword,
+and as I flew at him smote me a blow upon the head, from the effects
+of which I became senseless. In this state I was taken prisoner and
+lay for weeks sick in a vault, in the care of some people of the Jews,
+who nursed me. From them I escaped to Rome, desiring to report myself
+to Titus Cæsar, my master. I appeal to Titus Cæsar."
+
+"He is absent and I represent him," said Domitian.
+
+"Then," answered Marcus, "I appeal to Vespasian Cæsar, to whom I will
+tell all. I am a Roman noble of no mean rank, and I have a right to be
+tried by Cæsar, not by a packed court, whose president has a grudge
+against me for private matters."
+
+"Insolent!" shouted Domitian. "Your appeal shall be laid before Cæsar,
+as it must--that is, if he will hear it. Tell us now, where is that
+woman whom you bought in the Forum, for we desire her testimony?"
+
+"Prince, I do not know," answered Marcus. "It is true that she came to
+my house, but then and there I gave her freedom and she departed from
+it with her nurse, nor can I tell whither she went."
+
+"I thought that you were only a coward, but it seems that you are a
+liar as well," sneered Domitian. Then he consulted with the officers
+and added, "We judge the case to be proved against you, and for having
+disgraced the Roman arms, when, rather than be taken prisoner, many a
+meaner man died by his own hand, you are worthy of whatever punishment
+it pleases Cæsar to inflict. Meanwhile, till his pleasure is known, I
+command that you shall be confined in the private rooms of the
+military prison near the Temple of Mars, and that if you attempt to
+escape thence you shall be put to death. You have liberty to draw up
+your case in writing, that it may be transmitted to Cæsar, my father,
+together with a transcript of the evidence against you."
+
+"Now," replied Marcus bitterly, "I am tempted to do what you say I
+should have done before, die by my own hand, rather than endure such
+shameful words and this indignity. But that my honour will not suffer.
+When Cæsar has heard my case and when Titus, my general, also gives
+his verdict against me, I will die, but not before. You, Prince, and
+you, Captains, who have never drawn sword outside the streets of Rome,
+you call me coward, me, who have served with honour through five
+campaigns, who, from my youth till now have been in arms, and this
+upon the evidence of a renegade Jew who, for years, has been my
+private enemy, and of a soldier whom I scourged as a thief. Look now
+upon this breast and say if it is that of a coward!" and rending his
+robes asunder, Marcus exposed his bosom, scarred with four white
+wounds. "Call my comrades, those with whom I have fought in Gaul, in
+Sicily, in Egypt and in Judæa, and ask them if Marcus is a coward? Ask
+that Jew even, to whom I gave his life, whether Marcus is a coward?"
+
+"Have done with your boasting," said Domitian, "and hide those
+scratches. You were taken prisoner by the Jews--it is enough. You have
+your prayer, your case shall go to Cæsar. If the tale you tell is true
+you would produce that woman who is said to have rescued you from the
+Jews and whom you purchased as a slave. When you do this we will take
+her evidence. Till then to your prison with you. Guards, remove the
+man Marcus, called the Fortunate, once a Prefect of Horse in the army
+of Judæa."
+
+
+
+                            CHAPTER XXVII
+
+                           THE BISHOP CYRIL
+
+On the morning following the day of the Triumph Julia, the wife of
+Gallus, was seated in her bed-chamber looking out at the yellow waters
+of the Tiber that ran almost beneath its window. She had risen at dawn
+and attended to the affairs of her household, and now retired to rest
+and pray. Mingled with the Roman crowd on the yesterday she had seen
+Miriam, whom she loved, marching wearily through the streets of Rome.
+Then, able to bear no more, she went home, leaving Gallus to follow
+the last acts of the drama. About nine o'clock that night he joined
+her and told her the story of the sale of Miriam for a vast sum of
+money, since, standing in the shadow beyond the light of the torches,
+he had been a witness of the scene at the slave-market. Domitian had
+been outbid, and their Pearl-Maiden was knocked down to an old woman
+with a basket on her back who looked like a witch, after which she
+vanished with her purchaser. That was all he knew for certain. Julia
+thought it little enough, and reproached her husband for his stupidity
+in not learning more. Still, although she seemed to be vexed, at heart
+she rejoiced. Into whoever's hand the maid had fallen, for a while at
+least she had escaped the vile Domitian.
+
+Now, as she sat and prayed, Gallus being abroad to gather more tidings
+if he could, she heard the courtyard door open, but took no notice of
+it, thinking that it was but the servant who returned from market.
+Presently, however, as she knelt, a shadow fell upon her and Julia
+looked up to see Miriam, none other than Miriam, and with her a dark-
+skinned, aged woman, whom she did not know.
+
+"How come you here?" she gasped.
+
+"Oh! mother," answered the girl in a low and thrilling voice, "mother,
+by the mercy of God and by the help of this Nehushta, of whom I have
+often told you, and--of another, I am escaped from Domitian, and
+return to you free and unharmed."
+
+"Tell me that story," said Julia, "for I do not understand. The thing
+sounds incredible."
+
+So Miriam told her tale. When it was done, Julia said:
+
+"Heathen though he is, this Marcus must be a noble-hearted man, whom
+may Heaven reward."
+
+"Yes," answered Miriam with a sigh, "may Heaven reward him, as I wish
+I might."
+
+"As you would have done had I not stayed you," put in Nehushta. Her
+voice was severe, but as she spoke something that Julia took to be a
+smile was seen for an instant on her grim features.
+
+"Well, friend, well," said Julia, "we have all of us fallen into
+temptation from time to time."
+
+"Pardon me, lady," answered Nehushta, "but speak for yourself. I never
+fell into any temptation--from a man. I know too much of men."
+
+"Then, friend," replied Julia, "return thanks for the good armour of
+your wisdom. For my part, I say that, like the lord Marcus, this maid
+has acted well, and my prayer is that she also may not lose her
+reward."
+
+"Mine is," commented Nehushta, "that Marcus may escape the payment
+which he will doubtless receive from the hand of Domitian if he can
+hunt him out," a remark at which the face of Miriam grew very
+troubled.
+
+Just then Gallus returned, and to him the whole history had to be told
+anew.
+
+"It is wonderful," he said, "wonderful! I never heard the like of it.
+Two people who love each other and who, when their hour comes,
+separate over some question of faith, or rather in obedience to a
+command laid upon one of them by a lady who died years and years ago.
+Wonderful--and I hope wise, though had I been the man concerned I
+should have taken another counsel."
+
+"What counsel, husband?" asked Julia.
+
+"Well--to get away from Rome with the lady as far as possible, and
+without more delay than was necessary. It seems to me that under the
+circumstances it would have been best for her to consider her scruples
+in another land. You see Domitian is not a Christian any more than
+Marcus is, and our maid here does not like Domitian and does like
+Marcus. No, it is no good arguing the thing is done, but I think that
+you Christians might very well add two new saints to your calendar.
+And now to breakfast, which we all need after so much night duty."
+
+So they went and ate, but during that meal Gallus was very silent, as
+was his custom when he set his brain to work. Presently he asked:
+
+"Tell me, Miriam, did any see you or your companion enter here?"
+
+"No, I think not," she answered, "for as it chanced the door of the
+courtyard was ajar and the servant has not yet returned."
+
+"Good," he said. "When she does return I will meet her and send her
+out on a long errand."
+
+"Why?" asked his wife.
+
+"Because it is as well that none should know what guests we have till
+they are gone again."
+
+"Until they are gone again!" repeated Julia, astonished. "Surely you
+would not drive this maid, who has become to us as our daughter, from
+your door?"
+
+"Yes, I would, wife, for that dear maid's sake," and he took Miriam's
+little hand in his great palm and pressed it. "Listen now," he went
+on, "Miriam, the Jewish captive, has dwelt in our care these many
+months, has she not, as is known to all, is it not? Well, if any one
+wants to find her, where will they begin by looking?"
+
+"Aye! where?" echoed Nehushta.
+
+"Why should any one wish to find her?" asked Julia. "She was bought in
+the slave-market for a great price by the lord Marcus, who, of his own
+will, has set her at liberty. Now, therefore, she is a free woman whom
+none can touch."
+
+"A free woman!" answered Gallus with scorn. "Is any woman free in Rome
+upon whom Domitian has set his mind? Surely, you Christians are too
+innocent for this world. Peace now, for there is no time to lose.
+Julia, do you cloak yourself and go seek that high-priest of yours,
+Cyril, who also loves this maid. Tell the tale to him, and say that if
+he would save her from great dangers he had best find some secret
+hiding-place among the Christians, for her and her companion, until
+means can be found to ship them far from Rome. What think you of that
+plan, my Libyan friend?"
+
+"I think that it is good, but not good enough," answered Nehushta. "I
+think that we had best depart with the lady, your wife, this very
+hour, for who can tell how soon the dogs will be laid upon our slot?"
+
+"And what say you, maid Miriam?" asked Gallus.
+
+"I? Oh! I thank you for your thought, and I say--let us hide in any
+place you will, even a drain or a stable, if it will save me from
+Domitian."
+
+
+
+Two hours later, in a humble and densely peopled quarter of the city,
+such as in our own day we should call a slum, where folk were employed
+making those articles which ministered to the comfort or the luxury of
+the more fortunate, a certain master-carpenter known as Septimus was
+seated at his mid-day meal in a little chamber above his workshop. His
+hands were rough with toil, and the dust of his trade was upon his
+garments and even powdered over his long gray beard, so that at first
+sight it would not have been easy to recognise in him that Cyril who
+was a bishop among the Christians. Yet it was he, one of the foremost
+of the Faith in Rome.
+
+A woman entered the room and spoke with him in a low voice.
+
+"The dame Julia, the wife of Gallus, and two others with her?" he
+said. "Well, we need fear none whom she brings; lead them hither."
+
+Presently the door opened and Julia appeared, followed by two veiled
+figures. He raised his hands to bless her, then checked himself.
+
+"Daughter, who are these?" he said.
+
+"Declare yourselves," said Julia, and at her bidding Miriam and
+Nehushta unveiled.
+
+At the sight of Miriam's face the bishop started, then turned to study
+that of her companion.
+
+"Who vouches for this woman?" he asked.
+
+"I vouch for myself," answered Nehushta, "seeing that I am a Christian
+who received baptism a generation since at the hands of the holy John,
+and who stood to pay the price of faith in the arena at Cæsarea."
+
+"Is this so?" asked the bishop of Miriam.
+
+"It is so," she answered. "This Libyan was the servant of my
+grandmother. She nursed both my mother and myself, and many a time has
+saved my life. Have no fear, she is faithful."
+
+"Your pardon," said the bishop with a grave smile and addressing
+Nehushta, "but you who are old will know that the Christian who
+entertains strangers sometimes entertains a devil." Then he lifted up
+his hands and blessed them, greeting them in the name of their Master.
+
+"So, maid Miriam," he said, still smiling, "it would seem that I was
+no false prophet, and though you walked in the Triumph and were sold
+in the slave-ring--for this much I have heard--still the Angel of the
+Lord went with you."
+
+"Father, he went with me," she answered, "and he leads me here."
+
+Then they told him all the tale, and how Miriam sought a refuge from
+Domitian. He looked at her, stroking his long beard.
+
+"Is there anything you can do?" he asked. "Anything useful, I mean?
+But perhaps that is a foolish question, seeing that women--especially
+those who are well-favoured--do not learn a trade."
+
+"I have learnt a trade," answered Miriam, flushing a little. "Once I
+was held of some account as a sculptor; indeed I have heard that your
+Emperor Nero decreed divine honours to a bust from my hand."
+
+The bishop laughed outright. "The Emperor Nero! Well, the poor madman
+has gone to his own place, so let us say no more of him. But I heard
+of that bust; indeed I saw it; it was a likeness of Marcus Fortunatus,
+was it not, and in its fashion a great work? But our people do not
+make such things; we are artisans, not artists."
+
+"The artisan should be an artist," said Miriam, setting her mouth.
+
+"Perhaps, but as a rule he isn't. Do you think that you could mould
+lamps?"
+
+"There is nothing I should like better, that is if I am not forced to
+copy one pattern," she added as an afterthought.
+
+"Then," said the bishop, "I think, daughter, that I can show you how
+to earn a living, where none are likely to seek for you."
+
+
+
+Not a hundred paces away from the carpenter's shop where the master
+craftsman, Septimus, worked, was another manufactory, in which vases,
+basins, lamps, and all such articles were designed, moulded and baked.
+The customers who frequented the place, wholesale merchants for the
+most part, noted from and after the day of this interview a new
+workwoman, who, so far as her rough blouse permitted them to judge,
+seemed to be young and pretty, seated in a corner apart, beneath a
+window by the light of which she laboured. Later on they observed
+also, those of them who had any taste, that among the lamps produced
+by the factory appeared some of singular and charming design, so good,
+indeed, that although the makers reaped little extra benefit, the
+middlemen found no difficulty in disposing of these pieces at a high
+price. All day long Miriam sat fashioning them, while old Nehushta,
+who had learnt something of the task years ago by Jordan, prepared and
+tempered the clay and carried the finished work to the furnace.
+
+Now, though none would have guessed it, in this workshop all the
+labourers were Christians, and the product of their toil was cast into
+a common treasury on the proceeds of which they lived, taking, each of
+them, such share as their elders might decree, and giving the surplus
+to brethren who had need, or to the sick. Connected with these shops
+were lodging houses, mean enough to look at, but clean within. At the
+top of one of them, up three flights of narrow stairs, Miriam and
+Nehushta dwelt in a large attic that was very hot when the sun shone
+on the roof, and very cold in the bitter winds and rains of winter. In
+other respects, however, the room was not unpleasant, since being so
+high there were few smells and little noise; also the air that blew in
+at the windows was fresh and odorous of the open lands beyond the
+city.
+
+So there they dwelt in peace, for none came to search for the costly
+and beautiful Pearl-Maiden in those squalid courts, occupied by
+working folk of the meaner sort. By day they laboured, and at night
+they rested, ministering and ministered to in the community of
+Christian brotherhood, and, notwithstanding their fears and anxieties
+for themselves and another, were happier than they had been for years.
+So the weeks went by.
+
+Very soon tidings came to them, for these Christians knew of all that
+passed in the great city; also, when they met in the catacombs at
+night, as was their custom, especially upon the Lord's Day, Julia gave
+them news. From her they learned that they had done wisely to flee her
+house. Within three hours of their departure, indeed before Julia had
+returned there, officers arrived to inquire whether they had seen
+anything of the Jewish captive named Pearl-Maiden, who had been sold
+in the Forum on the previous night, and, as they said, escaped from
+her purchaser, on whose behalf they searched. Gallus received them,
+and, not being a Christian, lied boldly, vowing that he had seen
+nothing of the girl since he gave her over into the charge of the
+servants of Cæsar upon the morning of the Triumph. So suspecting no
+guile they departed and troubled his household no more.
+
+
+
+From the palace of Domitian Marcus was taken to his prison near the
+Temple of Mars. Here, because of his wealth and rank, because also he
+made appeal to Cæsar and was therefore as yet uncondemned of any
+crime, he found himself well treated. Two good rooms were given him to
+live in, and his own steward, Stephanus, was allowed to attend him and
+provide him with food and all he needed. Also upon giving his word
+that he would attempt no escape, he was allowed to walk in the gardens
+between the prison and the Temple, and to receive his friends at any
+hour of the day. His first visitor was the chamberlain, Saturius, who
+began by condoling with him over his misfortune and most undeserved
+position. Marcus cut him short.
+
+"Why am I here?" he asked.
+
+"Because, most noble Marcus, you have been so unlucky as to incur the
+displeasure of a very powerful man."
+
+"Why does Domitian persecute me?" he asked again.
+
+"How innocent are you soldiers!" said the chamberlain. "I will answer
+your question by another. Why do you buy beautiful captives upon whom
+royalty chances to have set its heart?"
+
+Marcus thought a moment, then said, "Is there any way out of this
+trouble?"
+
+"My lord Marcus, I came to show you one. Nobody really believes that
+you of all men failed in your duty out there in Jerusalem. Why, the
+thing is absurd, as even those carpet-captains before whom you were
+tried knew well. Still, your position is most awkward. There is
+evidence against you--of a sort. Vespasian will not interfere, for he
+is aware that this is some private matter of Domitian's, and having
+had one quarrel with his son over the captive, Pearl-Maiden, he does
+not wish for another over the man who bought her. No, he will say--
+this prefect was one of the friends and officers of Titus, let Titus
+settle the affair as it may please him when he returns."
+
+"At least Titus will do me justice," said Marcus.
+
+"Yes, without doubt, but what will that justice be? Titus issued an
+edict. Have you ever known him to go back upon his edicts, even to
+save a friend? Titus declared throughout his own camps those Romans
+who were taken prisoner by the Jews to be worthy of death or disgrace,
+and two of them, common men and cowards, have been publicly disgraced
+in the eyes of Rome. You were taken prisoner by the Jews and have
+returned alive, unfortunately for yourself, to incur the dislike of
+Domitian, who has raked up a matter that otherwise never would have
+been mooted."
+
+"Now," he says to Titus--"Show justice and no favour, as you showed in
+the case of the captive Pearl-Maiden, whom you refused to the prayer
+of your only brother, saying that she must be sold according to your
+decree. Even if he loves you dearly, as I believe he does, what, my
+lord Marcus, can Titus answer to that argument, especially as he also
+seeks no further quarrel with Domitian?"
+
+"You said you came to show me a way to safety--yet you tell me that my
+feet are set in the path of disgrace and death. Must this way of
+yours, then, be paved with gold?"
+
+"No," answered Saturius drily, "with pearls. Oh! I will be plain. Give
+up that necklace--and its wearer. What do you answer?"
+
+Now Marcus understood, and a saying that he heard on the lips of
+Miriam arose in his mind, though he knew not whence it came.
+
+"I answer," he said with set face and flashing eyes, "that I will not
+cast pearls before swine."
+
+"A pretty message from a prisoner to his judge," replied the
+chamberlain with a curious smile. "But have no fear, noble Marcus, it
+shall not be delivered. I am not paid to tell my royal master the
+truth. Think again."
+
+"I have thought," answered Marcus. "I do not know where the maiden is
+and therefore cannot deliver her to Domitian, nor would I if I could.
+Rather will I be disgraced and perish."
+
+"I suppose," mused Saturius, "that this is what they call true love,
+and to speak plainly," he added with a burst of candour, "I find it
+admirable and worthy of a noble Roman. My lord Marcus, my mission has
+failed, yet I pray that the Fates may order your deliverance from your
+enemies, and, in reward for these persecutions, bring back to you
+unharmed that maiden whom you desire, but whom I go to seek.
+Farewell."
+
+Two days later Stephanus, the steward of Marcus who waited upon him in
+his prison, announced that a man who said his name was Septimus wished
+speech with him, but would say nothing of his business.
+
+"Admit him," said Marcus, "for I grow weary of my own company," and
+letting his head fall upon his hand he stared through the bars of his
+prison window.
+
+Presently he heard a sound behind him, and looked round to see an old
+man clad in the robe of a master-workman, whose pure and noble face
+seemed in a strange contrast to his rough garments and toil-scarred
+hands.
+
+"Be seated and tell me your business," said Marcus courteously, and
+with a bow his visitor obeyed.
+
+"My business, my lord Marcus," he said in an educated and refined
+voice, "is to minister to those who are in trouble."
+
+"Then, sir, your feet have led you aright," answered Marcus with a sad
+laugh, "for this is the house of trouble and you see I am its
+inhabitant."
+
+"I know, and I know the cause."
+
+Marcus looked at him curiously. "Are you a Christian, sir?" he asked.
+"Nay, do not fear to answer; I have friends who are Christians," and
+he sighed, "nor could I harm you if I would, who wish to harm none,
+least of all a Christian."
+
+"My lord Marcus, I fear hurt at no man's hand; also the days of Nero
+have gone by and Vespasian reigns, who molests us not. I am Cyril, a
+bishop of the Christians in Rome, and if you will hear me I am come to
+preach to you my faith, which, I trust, may yet be yours."
+
+Marcus stared at the man; it was to him a matter of amazement that
+this priest should take so much trouble for a stranger. Then a thought
+struck him and he asked:
+
+"What fee do you charge for these lessons in a new religion?"
+
+The bishop's pale face flushed.
+
+"Sir," he answered, "if you wish to reject my message, do it without
+insult. I do not sell the grace of God for lucre."
+
+Again Marcus was impressed.
+
+"Your pardon," he said, "yet I have known priests take money, though
+it is true they were never of your faith. Who told you about me?"
+
+"One, my lord Marcus, to whom you have behaved well," answered Cyril
+gravely.
+
+Marcus sprang from his seat.
+
+"Do you mean--do you mean--?" he began and paused, looking round him
+fearfully.
+
+"Yes," replied the bishop in a whisper, "I mean Miriam. Fear not, she
+and her companions are in my charge, and for the present, safe. Seek
+to know no more, lest perchance their secret should be wrung from you.
+I and her brethren in the Lord will protect her to the last."
+
+Marcus began to pour out his thanks.
+
+"Thank me not," interrupted Cyril, "for what is at once my duty and my
+joy."
+
+"Friend Cyril," said Marcus, "the maid is in great danger. I have just
+learned that Domitian's spies hunt through Rome to find her, who, when
+she is found, will be spirited to his palace and a fate that you can
+guess. She must escape from Rome. Let her fly to Tyre, where she has
+friends and property. There, if she lies hid a while, she will be
+molested by none."
+
+The bishop shook his head.
+
+"I have thought of it," he said, "but it is scarcely possible. The
+officers at every port have orders to search all ships that sail with
+passengers, and detain any woman on them who answers to the
+description of her who was called Pearl-Maiden. This I know for
+certain, for I also have my officers, more faithful perhaps than those
+of Cæsar," and he smiled.
+
+"Is there then no means to get her out of Rome and across the sea?"
+
+"I can think of only one, which would cost more money than we poor
+Christians can command. It is that a ship be bought in the name of
+some merchant and manned with sailors who can be trusted, such as I
+know how to find. Then she could be taken aboard at night, for on such
+a vessel there would be no right of search nor any to betray."
+
+"Find the ship and trusty men and I will find the money," said Marcus,
+"for I still have gold at hand and the means of raising more."
+
+"I will make inquiries," answered Cyril, "and speak with you further
+on the matter. Indeed it is not necessary that you should give this
+money, since such a ship and her cargo, if she comes there safely,
+should sell at a great profit in the Eastern ports. Meanwhile have no
+fear; in the protection of God and her brethren the maid is safe."
+
+"I hope so," said Marcus devoutly. "Now, if you have the time to
+spare, tell me of this God of whom you Christians speak so much but
+who seems so far away from man."
+
+"But who, in the words of the great apostle, my master, in truth is
+not far from any one of us," answered Cyril. "Now hearken, and may
+your heart be opened."
+
+Then he began his labour of conversion, reasoning till the sun sank
+and it was time for the prison gates to close.
+
+"Come to me again," said Marcus as they parted, "I would hear more."
+
+"Of Miriam or of my message?" asked Cyril with a smile.
+
+"Of both," answered Marcus.
+
+Four days went by before Cyril returned. They were heavy days for
+Marcus, since on the morrow of the bishop's visit he had learned that
+as Saturius had foretold, Vespasian refused to consider his case,
+saying that it must abide the decision of Titus when he came back to
+Rome. Meanwhile, he commanded that the accused officer should remain
+in prison, but that no judgment should issue against him. Here, then,
+Marcus was doomed to lie, fretting out his heart like a lion in a
+cage.
+
+From Cyril Marcus learned that Miriam was well and sent him her
+greetings, since she dared neither visit him nor write. The bishop
+told him also that he had found a certain Grecian mariner, Hector by
+name, a Roman citizen, who was a Christian and faithful. This man
+desired to sail for the coasts of Syria and was competent to steer a
+vessel thither. Also he thought that he could collect a crew of
+Christians and Jews who might be trusted. Lastly, he knew of several
+small galleys that were for sale, one of which, named the /Luna/, was
+a very good ship and almost new. Cyril told him, moreover, that he had
+seen Gallus and his wife Julia, and that these good people, having no
+more ties in Rome, partly because they desired to leave the city, and
+partly for love of Miriam, though more the second reason than the
+first, were willing to sell their house and goods and to sail with her
+to Syria.
+
+Marcus asked how much money would be needed, and when Cyril named the
+sum, sent for Stephanus and commanded him to raise it and to pay it
+over to the craftsman Septimus, taking his receipt in discharge. This
+Septimus promised to do readily enough by a certain day, believing
+that the gold was needed for his master's ransom. Then having settled
+all as well as might be, Cyril took up his tale and preached to Marcus
+of the Saviour of the world with great earnestness and power.
+
+Thus the days went on, and twice or thrice in every week Cyril visited
+Marcus, giving him tidings and instructing him in the Faith. Now the
+ship /Luna/ was bought and the most of her crew hired; also a cargo of
+such goods as would be salable in Syria was being laid into her hold
+at Ostia, the Greek, Hector, giving it out that this was a private
+venture of his own and some other merchants. As the man was well known
+for a bold trader who had bought and sold in many lands his tale
+caused neither wonder nor suspicion, none knowing that the capital was
+furnished by the steward of the prisoner Marcus through him who passed
+as the master craftsman and contractor Septimus. Indeed, until the
+after days Miriam did not know this herself, for it was kept from her
+by the special command of Marcus, and if Nehushta guessed the truth
+she held her tongue.
+
+
+
+Two full months had gone by. Marcus still languished in prison, for
+Titus had not yet returned to Rome, but as he learned from Cyril,
+Domitian wearied somewhat of his fruitless search for Miriam, although
+he still vowed vengeance against the rival who had robbed him. The
+ship /Luna/ was laden and ready for sea; indeed, if the wind and
+weather were favourable, she was to sail within a week. Gallus and
+Julia, having wound up their affairs, had removed to Ostia, whither
+Miriam was to be brought secretly on the night of the sailing of the
+/Luna/. Marcus was now at heart a Christian, but as yet had refused to
+accept baptism. Thus matters stood when Cyril visited the prison
+bringing with him Miriam's farewell message to her lover. It was very
+short.
+
+"Tell Marcus," she said, "that I go because he bids me, and that I
+know not whether we shall meet again. Say that perhaps it is best that
+we should not meet, since for reasons which he knows, even if he
+should still wish it, we may not marry. Say that in life or death I am
+his, and his only, and that until my last hour my thought and prayer
+will be for him. May he be delivered from all those troubles which, as
+I fear, I have brought upon him, through no will of mine. May he
+forgive me for them and let my love and gratitude make some amends for
+all that I have done amiss."
+
+To this Marcus answered: "Tell Miriam that from my heart I thank her
+for her message, and that my desire is that she should be gone from
+Rome so soon as may be, since here danger dogs her steps. Tell her
+that although it is true that mine has brought me shame and sorrow,
+still I give her love for love, and that if I come living from my
+prison I will follow her to Tyre and speak further of these matters.
+If I die, I pray that good fortune may attend her and that from time
+to time she will make the offering of an hour's thought to the spirit
+which once was Marcus."
+
+
+
+                            CHAPTER XXVIII
+
+                               THE LAMP
+
+If Domitian at length slackened in his fruitless search for Miriam,
+Caleb, whose whole heart was in the hunt, proved more diligent. Still,
+he could find no trace of her. At first he made sure that if she was
+in Rome she would return to visit her friends and protectors, Gallus
+and his wife, and in the hope of thus discovering her, Caleb caused a
+constant watch to be kept on their abode. But Miriam never came there,
+nor, although their footsteps were dogged from day to day, did they
+lead him to her, since in truth Julia and Miriam met only in the
+catacombs, where he and his spies dared not venture. Soon, however,
+Gallus discovered that his home was kept under observation and its
+inmates tracked from place to place. It was this knowledge indeed
+which, more than any other circumstance, brought him to make up his
+mind to depart from Rome and dwell in Syria, since he said that he
+would no longer live in a city where night by night he and his were
+hunted like jackals. But when he left for Ostia, to wait there till
+the ship /Luna/ was ready, Caleb followed him, and in that small town
+soon found out all his plans, learning that he meant to sail with his
+wife in the vessel. Then, as he could hear nothing of Miriam, he
+returned to Rome.
+
+After all it was by chance that he discovered her and not through his
+own cleverness. Needing a lamp for his chamber he entered a shop where
+such things were sold, and examined those that the merchant offered to
+him. Presently he perceived one of the strange design of two palms
+with intertwining trunks and feathery heads nodding apart, having a
+lamp hanging by a little chain from the topmost frond of each of them.
+The shape of the trees struck him as familiar, and he let his eye run
+down their stems until it reached the base, which, to support so tall
+a piece, was large. Yes, the palms grew upon a little bank, and there
+beneath the water rippled, while between bank and water was a long,
+smooth stone, pointed at one end. Then in a flash Caleb recognised the
+place, as well he might, seeing that on many and many an evening had
+he and Miriam sat side by side upon that stone, angling for fish in
+the muddy stream of Jordan. There was no doubt about it, and, look!
+half hidden in the shadow of the stone lay a great fish, the biggest
+that ever he had caught--he could swear to it, for its back fin was
+split.
+
+A mist came before Caleb's eyes and in it across the years he saw
+himself a boy again. There he stood, his rod of reed bent double and
+the thin line strained almost to breaking, while on the waters of
+Jordan a great fish splashed and rolled.
+
+"I cannot pull him in," he cried. "The line will never bear it and the
+bank is steep. Oh! Miriam, we shall lose him!"
+
+Then there was a splash, and, behold! the girl at his side had sprung
+into the swiftly running river. Though its waters, reaching to her
+neck, washed her down the stream, she hugged to her young breast that
+great, slippery fish, yes, and gripped its back fin between her teeth,
+till with the aid of his reed rod he drew them both to land.
+
+
+
+"I will buy that lamp," said Caleb presently. "The design pleases me.
+What artist made it?"
+
+The merchant shrugged his shoulders.
+
+"Sir, I do not know," he answered. "These goods are supplied to us
+with many others, such as joinery and carving, by one Septimus, who is
+a contractor and, they say, a head priest among the Christians,
+employing many hands at his shops in the poor streets yonder. One or
+more of them must be designers of taste, since of late we have
+received from him some lamps of great beauty."
+
+Then the man was called away to attend to another customer and Caleb
+paid for his lamp.
+
+That evening at dusk Caleb, bearing the lamp in his hand, found his
+way to the workshop of Septimus, only to discover that the part of the
+factory where lamps were moulded was already closed. A girl who had
+just shut the door, seeing him stand perplexed before it, asked
+civilly if she could help him.
+
+"Maiden," he answered, "I am in trouble who wish to find her who
+moulded this lamp, so that I may order others, but am told that she
+has left her work for the day."
+
+"Yes," said the maiden, looking at the lamp, which evidently she
+recognised. "It is pretty, is it not? Well, cannot you return
+to-morrow?"
+
+"Alas! no, I expect to be leaving Rome for a while, so I fear that I
+must go elsewhere."
+
+The girl reflected to herself that it would be a pity if the order
+were lost, and with it the commission which she might divide with the
+maker of the lamp. "It is against the rules, but I will show you where
+she lives," she said, "and if she is there, which is probable, for I
+have never seen her or her companion go out at night, you can tell her
+your wishes."
+
+Caleb thanked the girl and followed her through sundry tortuous lanes
+to a court surrounded by old houses.
+
+"If you go in there," she said, pointing to a certain doorway, "and
+climb to the top of the stairs, I forget whether there are three or
+four flights, you will find the makers of the lamp in the roof-rooms--
+oh! sir, I thank you, but I expected nothing. Good-night."
+
+At length Caleb stood at the head of the stairs, which were both
+steep, narrow, and in the dark hard to climb. Before him, at the end
+of a rickety landing, a small ill-fitting door stood ajar. There was
+light within the room beyond, and from it came a sound of voices.
+Caleb crept up to the door and listened, for as the floor below was
+untenanted he knew that none could see him. Bending down he looked
+through the space between the door and its framework and his heart
+stood still. There, standing full in the lamplight, clothed in a pure
+white robe, for her rough working dress lay upon a stool beside her,
+was Miriam herself, her elbow leaning on the curtained window-place.
+She was talking to Nehushta, who, her back bent almost double over a
+little charcoal fire, was engaged in cooking their supper.
+
+"Think," she was saying, "only think, Nou, our last night in this
+hateful city, and then, instead of that stifling workshop and the
+terror of Domitian, the open sea and the fresh salt wind and nobody to
+fear but God. /Luna!/ Is it not a beautiful name for a ship? I can see
+her, all silver----"
+
+"Peace," said Nehushta. "Are you mad, girl, to talk so loud? I though
+I heard a sound upon the stairs just now."
+
+"It is only the rats," answered Miriam cheerfully, "no one ever comes
+up here. I tell you that were it not for Marcus I could weep with
+joy."
+
+Caleb crept back to the head of the stairs and down several steps,
+which he began to re-ascend noisily, grumbling at their gloom and
+steepness. Then, before the women even had time to shut the door, he
+thrust it wide and walked straight into the room.
+
+"Your pardon," he began, then added quietly, "Why, Miriam, when we
+parted on the gate Nicanor, who could have foretold that we should
+live to meet again here in a Roman attic? And you, Nehushta. Why, we
+were separated in the fray outside the Temple walls, though, indeed, I
+think that I saw you in a strange place some months ago, namely, the
+slave-ring on the Forum."
+
+"Caleb," asked Miriam in a hollow voice, "what is your business here?"
+
+"Well, Miriam, it began with a desire for a replica of this lamp,
+which reminds me of a spot familiar to my childhood. Do you remember
+it? Now that I have found who is the lamp's maker----"
+
+"Cease fooling," broke in Nehushta. "Bird of ill-omen, you have come
+to drag your prey back to the shame and ruin which she has escaped."
+
+"I was not always called thus," answered Caleb, flushing, "when I
+rescued you from the house at Tyre for instance, or when I risked my
+life, Miriam, to throw you food upon the gate Nicanor. Nay, I come to
+save you from Domitian----"
+
+"And to take her for yourself," answered Nehushta. "Oh! we Christians
+also have eyes to see and ears to hear, and, black-hearted traitor
+that you are, we know all your shame. We know of your bargain with the
+chamberlain of Domitian, by which the body of the slave was to be the
+price of the life of her buyer. We know how you swore away the honour
+of your rival, Marcus, with false testimony, and how from week to week
+you have quartered Rome as a vulture quarters the sky till at length
+you have smelt out the quarry. Well, she is helpless, but One is
+strong, and may His vengeance fall upon your life and soul."
+
+Suddenly Nehushta's voice, that had risen to a scream, died away, and
+she stood before him threatening him with her bony fists, and
+searching his face with her burning eyes, a vengeance incarnate.
+
+"Peace, woman, peace," said Caleb, shrinking back before her. "Spare
+your reproaches; if I have sinned much it is because I have loved
+more----"
+
+"And hate most of all," added Nehushta.
+
+"Oh! Caleb," broke in Miriam, "if as you say you love me, why should
+you deal thus with me? You know well that I do not love you after this
+sort, no, and never can, and even if you keep me from Domitian, who
+does but make a tool of you, what would it advantage you to take a
+woman who leaves her heart elsewhere? Also I may never marry you for
+that same reason that I may not marry Marcus, because my faith is and
+must remain apart from yours. Would you make a base slave of your old
+playmate, Caleb? Would you bring her to the level of a dancing-girl?
+Oh! let me go in peace."
+
+"Upon the ship /Luna/," said Caleb sullenly.
+
+Miriam gasped! So he knew their plans.
+
+"Yes," she replied desperately, "upon the ship /Luna/, to find such a
+fate as Heaven may give me; at least to be at peace and free. For your
+soul's sake, Caleb, let me go. Once years ago you swore that you would
+not force yourself upon me against my will. Will you break that oath
+to-day?"
+
+"I swore also, Miriam, that it should go ill with any man who came
+between you and me. Shall I break that oath to-day? Give yourself to
+me of your own will and save Marcus. Refuse and I will bring him to
+his death. Choose now between me and your lover's life."
+
+"Are you a coward that you should lay such a choice upon me, Caleb?"
+
+"Call me what you will. Choose."
+
+Miriam clasped her hands and for a moment stood looking upwards. Then
+a light of purpose grew upon her face and she answered:
+
+"Caleb, I have chosen. Do your worst. The fate of Marcus is not in my
+hands, or your hands, but in the hands of God; nor, unless He wills
+it, can one hair of his head be harmed by you or by Domitian. For is
+it not written in the book of your own Law that 'the King's heart is
+in the hand of the Lord, he turneth it whithersoever he will.' But my
+honour is my own, and to stain it would be a sin for which I alone
+must answer to Heaven and to Marcus, dead or living--Marcus, who would
+curse and spit upon me did I attempt to buy his safety at such a
+price."
+
+"Is that your last word, Miriam?"
+
+"It is. If it pleases you by false witness and by murder to destroy
+the man who once spared you, then if such a thing be suffered, have
+your will and reap its fruits. I make no bargain with you, for myself
+or for him--do your worst to both of us."
+
+"So be it," said Caleb with a bitter laugh, "but I think that the ship
+/Luna/ will lack her fairest passenger."
+
+Miriam sank down upon a seat and covered her face with her hands, a
+piteous sight in her misery and the terror which, notwithstanding her
+bold words, she could not conceal. Caleb walked to the door and paused
+there, while the white-haired Nehushta stood by the brazier of
+charcoal and watched them both with her fierce eyes. Presently Caleb
+glanced round at Miriam crouched by the window and a strange new look
+came into his face.
+
+"I cannot do it," he said slowly, each word falling heavily from his
+lips like single rain-drops from a cloud, or the slow blood from a
+mortal wound.
+
+Miriam let her hands slip from her face and stared at him.
+
+"Miriam," he said, "you are right; I have sinned against you and this
+man Marcus. Now I will expiate my sin. Your secret is safe with me,
+and since you hate me I will never see you more. Miriam, we look upon
+each other for the last time. Further, if I can, I will work for the
+deliverance of Marcus and help him to join you in Tyre, whither the
+/Luna/ is bound--is she not? Farewell?"
+
+Once again he turned to go, but it would seem that his eyes were
+blinded, or his brain was dulled by the agony that worked within. At
+least Caleb caught his foot in the ancient uneven boards, stumbled,
+and fell heavily upon his face. Instantly, with a low hiss of hate and
+a spring like that of a cat, Nehushta was upon him. Thrusting her
+knees upon his back she seized the nape of his neck with her left hand
+and with her right drew a dagger from her bosom.
+
+"Forbear!" said Miriam. "Touch him with that knife and we part
+forever. Nay, I mean it. I myself will hand you to the officer, even
+if he hales me to Domitian."
+
+Then Nehushta rose to her feet.
+
+"Fool!" she said, "fool, to trust to that man of double moods, whose
+mercy to-night will be vengeance to-morrow. Oh! you are undone! Alas!
+you are undone!"
+
+Regaining his feet Caleb looked at her contemptuously.
+
+"Had you stabbed she might have been undone indeed," he said. "Now, as
+of old, there is little wisdom in that gray head of yours, Nehushta;
+nor can your hate suffer you to understand the intermingled good and
+evil of my heart." Then he advanced to Miriam, lifted her hand and
+kissed it. With a sudden movement she proffered him her brow.
+
+"Nay," he said, "tempt me not, it is not for me. Farewell."
+
+Another instant and he was gone.
+
+
+
+It would seem that Caleb kept his word, for three days later the
+vessel /Luna/ sailed unmolested from the port of Ostia in the charge
+of the Greek captain Hector, having on board Miriam, Nehushta, Julia,
+and Gallus.
+
+Within a week of this sailing Titus at length returned to Rome. Here
+in due course the case of Marcus was brought before him by the
+prisoner's friends, together with a demand that he should be granted a
+new and open trial for the clearing of his honour. Titus, who for his
+own reasons refused to see Marcus, listened patiently, then gave his
+decision.
+
+He rejoiced, he said, to learn that his close friend and trusted
+officer was still alive, since he had long mourned him as dead. He
+grieved that in his absence he should have been put upon his trial on
+the charge of having been taken captive, living, by the Jews, which,
+if Marcus upon his arrival in Rome had at once reported himself to
+him, would not have happened. He dismissed all accusations against his
+military honour and courage as mere idle talk, since he had a hundred
+times proved him to be the bravest of men, and knew, moreover,
+something of the circumstances under which he was captured. But,
+however willing he might be to do so, he was unable for public reasons
+to disregard the fact that he had been duly convicted by a court-
+martial, under the Prince Domitian, of having broken the command of
+his general and suffered himself to be taken prisoner alive. To do so
+would be to proclaim himself, Titus, unjust, who had caused others to
+suffer for this same offence, and to offer insult to the prince, his
+brother, who in the exercise of his discretion as commander in his
+absence, had thought fit to order the trial. Still, his punishment
+should be of the lightest possible. He commanded that on leaving his
+prison Marcus should go straight to his own house by night, so that
+there might be no public talk or demonstration among his friends, and
+there make such arrangement of his affairs as seemed good to him.
+Further, he commanded that within ten days he should leave Italy, to
+dwell or travel abroad for a period of three years, unless the time
+should be shortened by some special decree. After the lapse of these
+three years he would be free to return to Rome. This was his judgment
+and it could not be altered.
+
+As it chanced, it was the chamberlain Saturius who first communicated
+the Imperial decree to Marcus. Hurrying straight from the palace to
+the prison he was admitted into the prisoner's chamber.
+
+"Well," said Marcus, looking up, "what evil tidings have you now?"
+
+"None, none," answered Saturius. "I have very good tidings, and that
+is why I run so fast. You are only banished for three years, thanks to
+my secret efforts," and he smiled craftily. "Even your property is
+left to you, a fact which will, I trust, enable you to reward your
+friends for their labours on your behalf."
+
+"Tell me all," and the rogue obeyed, while Marcus listened with a face
+of stone.
+
+"Why did Titus decide thus?" he asked when it was finished. "Speak
+frankly, man, if you wish for a reward."
+
+"Because, noble Marcus, Domitian had been with him beforehand and told
+him that if he reversed his public judgment it would be a cause of
+open quarrel between them. This, Cæsar, who fears his brother, does
+not seek. That is why he would not see you, lest his love for his
+friend should overcome his reason."
+
+"So the prince is still my enemy?"
+
+"Yes, and more bitter than before, since he cannot find the Pearl-
+Maiden, and is sure that you have spirited her away. Be advised by me
+and leave Rome quickly, lest worse things befall you."
+
+"Aye," said Marcus, "I will leave Rome quickly, for how shall I abide
+here who have lost my honour. Yet first it may please your master to
+know that by now the lady whom he seeks is far across the sea. Now get
+you gone, you fox, for I desire to be alone."
+
+The face of Saturius became evil.
+
+"Is that all you have to say?" he asked. "Am I to win no reward?"
+
+"If you stay longer," said Marcus, "you will win one which you do not
+desire."
+
+Then Saturius went, but without the door he turned and shook his fist
+towards the chamber he had left.
+
+"Fox," he muttered. "He called me fox and gave me nothing. Well, foxes
+may find some pickings on his bones."
+
+The chamberlain's road to the palace ran past the place of business of
+the merchant Demetrius. He stopped and looked at it. "Perhaps this one
+will be more liberal," he said to himself, and entered.
+
+In his private office he found Caleb alone, his face buried in his
+hands. Seating himself he plunged into his tale, ending it with an
+apology to Caleb for the lightness of the sentence inflicted upon
+Marcus.
+
+"Titus would do no more," he said; "indeed, were it not for the fear
+of Domitian, he could have not have been brought to do so much, for he
+loves the man, who has been a prefect of his bodyguard, and was deeply
+grieved that he must disgrace him. Still, disgraced he is, aye, and he
+feels it; therefore I trust that you, most generous Demetrius, who
+hate him, will remember the service of your servant in this matter."
+
+"Yes," said Caleb quietly, "fear not, you shall be well paid, for you
+have done your best."
+
+"I thank you, friend," answered Saturius, rubbing his hands, "and,
+after all, things may be better than they seem. That insolent fool let
+out just now that the girl about whom there is all this bother has
+been smuggled away somewhere across the seas. When Domitian learns
+that he will be so mad with anger that he may be worked up to take a
+little vengeance of his own upon the person of the noble Marcus, who
+has thus contrived to trick him. Also Marcus shall not get the Pearl-
+Maiden, for the prince will cause her to be followed and brought back
+--to you, worthy Demetrius."
+
+"Then," answered Caleb, slowly, "he must seek for her, not across the
+sea, but in its depths."
+
+"What do you mean?"
+
+"I mean that I have tidings that Pearl-Maiden escaped in the ship
+/Luna/ hard upon a month ago. This morning the captain and some
+mariners of the galley /Imperatrix/ arrived in Rome. They report that
+they met a great gale off Rhegium, and towards the end of it saw a
+vessel sink. Afterwards they picked up a sailor clinging to a piece of
+wood, who told them that the ship's name was /Luna/ and that she
+foundered with all hands."
+
+"Have you seen this sailor?"
+
+"No; he died of exhaustion soon after he was rescued; but I have seen
+the men of the galley, who brought me note of certain goods consigned
+to me in her hold. They repeated this story to me with their own
+lips."
+
+"So, after all, she whom so many sought was destined to the arms of
+Neptune, as became a pearl," reflected Saturius. "Well, well, as
+Domitian cannot be revenged upon Neptune he will be the more wroth
+with the man who sent her to that god. Now I go to tell him all these
+tidings and learn his mind."
+
+"You will return and acquaint me with it, will you not?" asked Caleb,
+looking up.
+
+"Certainly, and at once. Our account is not yet balanced, most
+generous Demetrius."
+
+"No," answered Caleb, "our accounts are not yet balanced."
+
+Two hours later the chamberlain reappeared in the office.
+
+"Well," said Caleb, "how does it go?"
+
+"Ill, very ill for Marcus, and well, very well for those who hate him,
+as you and I do, friend. Oh! never have I seen my Imperial master so
+enraged. Indeed, when he learned that Pearl-Maiden had escaped and was
+drowned, so that he could have no hope of her this side the Styx, it
+was almost dangerous to be near to him. He cursed Titus for the
+lightness of his sentence; he cursed you; he cursed /me/. But I turned
+his wrath into the right channel. I showed him that for all these ills
+Marcus, and Marcus alone, is to blame, Marcus who is to pay the price
+of them with a three years' pleasant banishment from Rome, which
+doubtless, will be remitted presently. I tell you that Domitian wept
+and gnashed his teeth at the thought of it, until I showed him a
+better plan--knowing that it would please you, friend Demetrius."
+
+"What plan?"
+
+Saturius rose, and having looked round to see that the door was
+fastened, came and whispered into Caleb's ear.
+
+"Look you, after sunset to-night, that is within two hours, Marcus is
+to be put out of his prison and conducted to the side door of his own
+house, that beneath the archway, where he is ordered to remain until
+he leaves Rome. In this house is no one except an old man, the steward
+Stephanus, and a slave woman. Well, before he gets there, certain
+trusty fellows, such as Domitian knows how to lay his hands upon, will
+have entered the house, and having secured the steward and the woman,
+will await the coming of Marcus beneath the archway. You can guess the
+rest. Is it not well conceived?"
+
+"Very well," answered Caleb. "But may there not be suspicion?"
+
+"None, none. Who would dare to suspect Domitian? A private crime,
+doubtless! The rich have so many enemies."
+
+What Saturius did not add was that nobody would suspect Domitian
+because the masked bravoes were instructed to inform the steward and
+the slave when they had bound and gagged them, that they were hired to
+do the deed of blood by a certain merchant named Demetrius, otherwise
+Caleb the Jew, who had an ancient quarrel against Marcus, which,
+already, he had tried to satisfy by giving false evidence before the
+court-martial.
+
+"Now," went on Saturius, "I must be going, for there are one or two
+little things which need attention, and time presses. Shall we balance
+that account, friend Demetrius?"
+
+"Certainly," said Caleb, and taking a roll of gold from a drawer he
+pushed it across the table.
+
+Saturius shook his head sadly. "I laid it at twice as much," he said.
+"Think how you hate him and how richly your hate will be fed. First
+disgraced unjustly, he, one of the best soldiers and bravest captains
+in the army, and then hacked to death by cutthroats in the doorway of
+his own house. What more could you want?"
+
+"Nothing," answered Caleb. "Only the man isn't dead yet. Sometimes the
+Fates have strange surprises for us mortals, friend Saturius."
+
+"Dead? He will be dead soon enough."
+
+"Good. You shall have the rest of the money when I have seen his body.
+No, I don't want any bungling and that's the best way to make
+certain."
+
+"I wonder," thought Saturius, as he departed out of the office and
+this history, "I wonder how I shall manage to get the balance of my
+fee before they have my Jewish friend by the heels. But it can be
+arranged--doubtless it can be arranged."
+
+When he had gone, Caleb, who, it would seem, also had things which
+needed attention and felt that time pressed, took pen and wrote a
+short letter. Next he summoned a clerk and gave orders that it was to
+be delivered two hours after sunset--not before.
+
+Meanwhile, he enclosed it in an outer wrapping so that the address was
+not seen. This done, he sat still for a time, his lips moving, almost
+as though he were engaged in prayer. Then, seeing that it was the hour
+of sunset, he rose, wrapped himself in a long dark cloak, such as was
+worn by Roman officers, and went out.
+
+
+
+                             CHAPTER XXIX
+
+                     HOW MARCUS CHANGED HIS FAITH
+
+Caleb was not the only one who heard the evil tidings of the ship
+/Luna/; it came to the ears of the bishop Cyril also, since little of
+any moment passed within the city of Rome which the Christians did not
+know.
+
+Like Caleb, he satisfied himself of the truth of the matter by an
+interview with the captain of the /Imperatrix/. Then with a sorrowful
+heart he departed to the prison near the Temple of Mars. Here the
+warden told him that Marcus wished to see no one, but answering
+"Friend, my business will not wait," he pushed past the man and
+entered the room beyond. Marcus was standing up in the centre of it,
+in his hand a drawn sword of the short Roman pattern, which, on
+catching sight of his visitor, he cast upon the table with an
+exclamation of impatience. It fell beside a letter addressed to "The
+Lady Miriam in Tyre. To be given into her own hand."
+
+"Peace be with you," said the bishop, searching his face with his
+quiet eyes.
+
+"I thank you, friend," answered Marcus, smiling strangely, "I need
+peace, and--seek it."
+
+"Son," asked the bishop, "what were you about to do?"
+
+"Friend," answered Marcus, "If you desire to know, I was about to fall
+upon my sword. One more minute and I should have been dead. They
+brought it me with the cloak and other things. It was thoughtful of
+them, and I guessed their meaning."
+
+Cyril lifted the sword from the table and cast it into a corner of the
+room.
+
+"God be thanked," he said, "Who led my feet here in time to save you
+from this sin. Why, because it has pleased Him to take her life,
+should you seek to take your own?"
+
+"Her life?" said Marcus. "What dreadful words are these. Her life!
+Whose life?"
+
+"The life of Miriam. I came to tell you. She is drowned upon the seas
+with all her company."
+
+For a moment Marcus stood swaying to and fro like a drunken man. Then
+he said:
+
+"Is it so indeed? Well, the more reason that I should make haste to
+follow her. Begone and leave me to do the deed alone," and he stepped
+towards the sword.
+
+Cyril set his foot upon the shining blade.
+
+"What is this madness?" he asked. "If you did not know of Miriam's
+death, why do you desire to kill yourself?"
+
+"Because I have lost more than Miriam. Man, they have robbed me of my
+honour. By the decree of Titus, I, Marcus, am branded as a coward.
+Yes, Titus, at whose side I have fought a score of battles--Titus,
+from whom I have warded many a blow--has banished me from Rome."
+
+"Tell me of this thing," said Cyril.
+
+So Marcus told him all. Cyril listened in silence, then said sternly:
+
+"Is it for this that you would kill yourself? Is your honour lessened
+by a decree based upon false evidence, and given for reasons of
+policy? Do you cease to be honourable because others are
+dishonourable, and would you--a soldier--fly from the battle? Now,
+indeed, Marcus, you show yourself a coward."
+
+"How can I live on who am so shamed?" he asked passionately. "My
+friends knew that I could not live, and that is why they wrapped a
+sword in yonder cloak and sent it me. Also Miriam, you say, is dead."
+
+"Satan sent it to you, Marcus, desiring to fashion of your foolish
+pride a ladder down which you might climb to hell. Cast aside this
+base temptation which wears the mask of false honour; face your
+trouble like a man, and conquer it by innocence--and faith."
+
+"Miriam! What of Miriam?"
+
+"Yes, what of Miriam? How would she welcome you yonder, who come to
+greet her with your blood upon your hands? Oh! son, do you not
+understand that this is the trial laid upon you? You have been brought
+low that you might rise high. Once the world gave you all it had to
+give. You were rich, you were a captain among captains; you were high-
+born; men called you 'The Fortunate.' Then Christ appealed to you in
+vain, you put Him by. What had you to do with the crucified carpenter
+of Galilee? Now by the plotting of your foes you have fallen. No
+longer do you rank high in your trade of blood. You are dismissed its
+service and an exile. The lesson of life has come home to you,
+therefore you seek to escape from life rather than bide in it to do
+your duty through good and ill, heedless of what men may say, and
+finding peace in the verdict of your own conscience. Let Him Whom you
+put by in your hours of pomp come to you now. Carry your cross with
+your shame as He carried His in His shame. In His light find light, in
+His peace find peace, and at the end her who has been taken from you
+awhile. Has my spirit spoken in vain with your spirit during all these
+many weeks, son Marcus? Already you have told me that you believe, and
+now at the first breath of trouble will you go back upon that which
+you know to be the Truth? Oh! once more listen to me, that your eyes
+may be opened before it is too late."
+
+"Speak on, I hear you," said Marcus with a sigh.
+
+So Cyril pleaded with him in the passion of one inspired, and as
+Marcus hearkened his heart was softened and his purpose turned.
+
+"I knew it all before, I believed it all before," he said at length,
+"but I would not accept your baptism and become a member of your
+Church."
+
+"Why not, son?"
+
+"Because had I done so she would have thought and you might have
+thought, and perhaps I myself should have thought that I did it, as
+once I offered to do, to win her whom I desired above all things on
+earth. Now she is dead and it is otherwise. Shrive me, father, and do
+your office."
+
+So there in the prison cell the bishop Cyril took water and baptised
+the Roman Marcus into the body of the Christian Church.
+
+"What shall I do now?" Marcus asked as he rose from his knees. "Once
+Cæsar was my master, now you speak with the voice of Cæsar. Command
+me."
+
+"I do not speak, Christ speaks. Listen. I am called by the Church to
+go to Alexandria in Egypt, whither I sail within three days. Will you
+who are exiled from Rome come with me? There I can find you work to
+do."
+
+"I have said that you are Cæsar," answered Marcus. "Now it is sunset
+and I am free; accompany me to my house, I pray you, for there much
+business waits me in which I need counsel, who am overborne."
+
+So presently the gates were opened as Titus had commanded, and they
+went forth, attended only by a guard of two men, walking unnoted
+through the streets to the palace in the Via Agrippa.
+
+"There is the door," said the sergeant of the guard, pointing to the
+side entrance of the house. "Enter with your friend and, noble Marcus,
+fare you well."
+
+So they went to the archway, and finding the door ajar, passed through
+and shut it behind them.
+
+"For a house where there is much to steal this is ill guarded, son. In
+Rome an open gate ought to have a watchman," said Cyril as he groped
+his way through the darkness of the arch.
+
+"My steward Stephanus should be at hand, for the jailer advised him of
+my coming--who never thought to come," began Marcus, then of a sudden
+stumbled heavily and was silent.
+
+"What is it?" asked Cyril.
+
+"By the feel one who is drunken--or dead. Some beggar, perhaps, who
+sleeps off his liquor here."
+
+By now Cyril was through the archway and in the little courtyard
+beyond.
+
+"A light burns in that window," he said. "Come, you know the path,
+guide me to it. We can return to this sleeper."
+
+"Who seems hard to wake," added Marcus, as he led the way across the
+courtyard to the door of the offices. This also proved to be open and
+by it they entered the room where the steward kept his books and
+slept. Upon the table a lamp was burning, that which they had seen
+through the casement. Its light showed them a strange sight. An iron-
+bound box that was chained to the wall had been broken open and its
+contents rifled, for papers were strewn here and there, and on them
+lay an empty leathern money-bag. The furniture also was overturned as
+though in some struggle, while among it, one in the corner of the room
+and one beneath the marble table, which was too heavy to be moved, lay
+two figures, those of a man and a woman.
+
+"Murderers have been here," said Cyril with a groan.
+
+Marcus snatched the lamp from the table and held it to the face of the
+man in the corner.
+
+"It is Stephanus," he said, "Stephanus bound and gagged, but living,
+and the other is the slave woman. Hold the lamp while I loose them,"
+and drawing his short sword, he cut away the bonds, first of the one
+and then of the other. "Speak, man, speak!" he said, as Stephanus
+struggled to his feet. "What has chanced here?"
+
+For some moments the old steward stared at him with round, frightened
+eyes. Then he gasped:
+
+"Oh! my lord, I thought you dead. They said that they had come to kill
+you by command of the Jew Caleb, he who gave the evidence."
+
+"They! Who?" asked Marcus.
+
+"I know not, four men whose faces were masked. They said also that
+though you must die, they were commanded to do me and this woman no
+harm, only to bind and silence us. This they did, then, having taken
+what money they could find, went out to waylay you. Afterwards I heard
+a scuffle in the arch and well-nigh died of sorrow, for I who could
+neither warn nor help you, was sure that you were perishing beneath
+their knives."
+
+"For this deliverance, thank God," said Cyril, lifting up his hands.
+
+"Presently, presently," answered Marcus. "First follow me," and taking
+the lamp in his hand, he ran back to the archway.
+
+Beneath it a man lay upon his face--he across whom Marcus had
+stumbled, and about him blood flowed from many wounds. In silence they
+turned him over so that the light fell upon his features. Then Marcus
+staggered back amazed, for, behold! they were Caleb's, notwithstanding
+the blood and wounds that marred them, still dark and handsome in his
+death sleep.
+
+"Why," he said to Stephanus, "this is that very man whose bloody work,
+as they told us, the murderers came to do. It would seem that he has
+fallen into his own snare."
+
+"Are you certain, son?" asked Cyril. "Does not this gashed and gory
+cheek deceive you?"
+
+"Draw that hand of his from beneath the cloak," answered Marcus. "If I
+am right the first finger will lack a joint."
+
+Cyril obeyed and held up the stiffening hand. It was as Marcus had
+said.
+
+"Caught in his own snare!" repeated Marcus. "Well, though I knew he
+hated me, and more than once we have striven to slay each other in
+battle and private fight, never would I have believed that Caleb the
+Jew would sink to murder. He is well repaid, the treacherous dog!"
+
+"Judge not, that ye be not judged," answered Cyril. "What do you know
+of how or why this man came by his death? He may have been hurrying
+here to warn you."
+
+"Against his own paid assassins! No, father, I know Caleb better, only
+he was viler than I thought."
+
+Then they carried the body into the house and took counsel what they
+should do. While they reasoned together, for every path seemed full of
+danger, there came a knock upon the archway door. They hesitated, not
+knowing whether it would be safe to open, till the knock was repeated
+more loudly.
+
+"I will go, lord," said Stephanus, "for why need I fear, who am of no
+account to any one?"
+
+So he went, presently to return.
+
+"What was it?" asked Marcus.
+
+"Only a young man, who said that he had been strictly charged by his
+master, Demetrius the Alexandrian merchant, to deliver a letter at
+this hour. Here is the letter."
+
+"Demetrius, the Alexandrian merchant," said Marcus as he took it.
+"Why, under that name Caleb who lies there dead passed in Rome."
+
+"Read the letter," said Cyril.
+
+So Marcus cut the silk, broke the seal, and read:
+
+ "To the noble Marcus,
+
+ "In the past I have worked you evil and often striven to take your
+  life. Now it has come to my ears that Domitian, who hates you even
+  worse than I do, if for less reason, has laid a plot to murder you
+  on the threshold of your own house. Therefore, by way of amends
+  for that evidence which I gave against you that stained the truth,
+  since no braver man ever breathed than you are, Marcus, it has
+  come into my mind to visit the Palace Fortunate wrapped in such a
+  cloak as you Roman captains wear. There, before you read this
+  letter, perhaps we shall meet again. Still, mourn me not, Marcus,
+  nor speak of me as generous, or noble, since Miriam is dead, and I
+  who have followed her through life desire to follow her through
+  death, hoping that there I may find a kinder fortune at her hands,
+  or if not, forgetfulness. You who will live long, must drink deep
+  of memory--a bitterer cup. Marcus, farewell. Since die I must, I
+  would that it had been in open fight beneath your sword, but Fate,
+  who has given me fortune, but no true favour, appoints me to the
+  daggers of assassins that seek another heart. So be it. You tarry
+  here, but I travel to Miriam. Why should I grumble at the road?
+
+                                                         "Caleb.
+                    "Written at Rome upon the night of my death."
+
+"A brave man and a bitter," said Marcus when he had finished reading.
+"Know, my father, that I am more jealous of him now than ever I was in
+his life's days. Had it not been for you and your preaching," he added
+angrily, "when he came to seek Miriam, he would have found me at her
+side. But now, how can I tell?"
+
+"Peace to your heathen talk!" answered the bishop. "Is the land of
+spirits then such as your poets picture, and do the dead turn to each
+other with eyes of earthly passion? Yet," he added more gently, "I
+should not blame you who, like this poor Jew, from childhood have been
+steeped in superstitions. Have no fear of his rivalry in the heavenly
+fields, friend Marcus, where neither do they marry or are given in
+marriage, nor think that self-murder can help a man. What the end of
+all this tale may be does not yet appear; still I am certain that
+yonder Caleb will take no gain in hurrying down to death, unless
+indeed he did it from a nobler motive than he says, as I for one
+believe."
+
+"I trust that it may be so," answered Marcus, "although in truth that
+another man should die for me gives me no comfort. Rather would I that
+he had left me to my doom."
+
+"As God has willed so it has befallen, for 'man's goings are of the
+Lord; how then can a man understand his own way?'" replied Cyril with
+a sigh. "Now let us to other matters, for time is short and it comes
+upon me that you will do well to be clear of Rome before Domitian
+finds that Caleb fell in place of Marcus."
+
+
+
+Nearly three more months had gone when, at length, one night as the
+sun vanished, a galley crept wearily into the harbour of Alexandria
+and cast anchor just as the light of Pharos began to shine across the
+sea. Her passage through the winter gales had been hard, and for weeks
+at a time she had been obliged to shelter in harbours by the way. Now,
+short of food and water, she had come safely to her haven, for which
+mercy the bishop Cyril with the Roman Marcus and such other Christians
+as were aboard of her gave thanks to Heaven upon their knees in their
+little cabin near the forecastle, for it was too late to attempt to
+land that night. Then they went on deck and, as all their food was
+gone and they had no drink except some stinking water, leaned upon the
+bulwarks and looked hungrily towards the shore, where gleamed the
+thousand lights of the mighty city. Near to them, not a bowshot away
+indeed, lay another ship. Presently, as they stared at her black
+outline, the sound of singing floated from her decks across the still,
+starlit waters of the harbour. They listened to it idly enough at
+first, till at length some words of that song reached their ears,
+causing them to look at each other.
+
+"That is no sailor's ditty," said Marcus.
+
+"No," answered Cyril, "it is a Christian hymn, and one that I know
+well. Listen. Each verse ends, 'Peace, be still!'"
+
+"Then," said Marcus, "yonder must be a Christian ship, else they would
+not dare to sing that hymn. The night is calm, let us beg the boat and
+visit it. I am thirsty, and those good folk may have fresh water."
+
+"If you wish," answered Cyril. "There too we may get tidings as well
+as water."
+
+A while later the little boat rowed to the side of the strange ship
+and asked leave to board of the watchman.
+
+"What sign do you give?" asked the officer.
+
+"The sign of the Cross," answered Cyril. "We have heard your hymn who
+are of the brotherhood of Rome."
+
+Then a rope ladder was thrown down to them and the officer bade them
+make fast and be welcome.
+
+They climbed upon the deck and went to seek the captain, who was in
+the afterpart of the ship, where an awning was stretched. In the space
+enclosed by this awning, which was lit with lanterns, stood a woman in
+a white robe, who sang the refrain of the hymn in a very sweet voice,
+others of the company, from time to time, joining in its choruses.
+
+ "From the dead am I arisen"
+
+sang the voice, and there was something in the thrilling notes that
+went straight to the heart of Marcus, some tone and quality which were
+familiar.
+
+Side by side with Cyril he climbed onwards across the rowing benches,
+and the noise of their stumbling footsteps reaching the singer's ears,
+caused her to pause in her song. Then stepping forward a little, as
+though to look, she came under the lantern so that its light fell full
+upon her face, and, seeing nothing, once more took up her chant:
+
+ "Oh ye faithless, from the dead am I arisen."
+
+"Look, look!" gasped Marcus, clutching Cyril by the arm. "Look! It is
+Miriam, or her spirit."
+
+Another instant and he, too, had come into the circle of the
+lamplight, so that his eyes met the eyes of the singer. Now she saw
+him and, with a little cry, sank senseless to the deck.
+
+
+
+So the long story ended. Afterwards they learned that the tale which
+had been brought to Rome of the loss of the ship /Luna/ was false. She
+had met the great gale, indeed, but had sheltered from it in a
+harbour, where the skill of her captain, Hector, brought her safely.
+Then she made her way to Sicily, where she refitted, and so on to one
+of the Grecian ports, in which she lay for eight weeks waiting for
+better weather, till a favouring wind brought her somewhat slowly to
+Alexandria, a port she won only two days before the galley of Marcus.
+It would seem, therefore, that the vessel that had foundered in sight
+of the /Imperatrix/ was either another ship also called the /Luna/, no
+uncommon name, or that the mariners of the /Imperatrix/ had not heard
+her title rightly. It may have been even that the dying sailor who
+told it to them wandered in his mind, and forgetting how his last ship
+was called, gave her some name with which he was familiar. At the
+least, through the good workings of Providence, that /Luna/ which bore
+Miriam and her company escaped the perils of the deep and in due time
+reached the haven of Alexandria.
+
+Before they parted that happy night all their tale was told. Miriam
+learned how Caleb had kept the promise that he made to her, although
+when he thought her dead his fierce and jealous heart would suffer him
+to tell nothing of it to Marcus. She learned also how it came about
+that Marcus had been saved from death at his own hand by Cyril and
+entered the company of the Christian brotherhood. Very glad were both
+of them to think in the after years that he had done this believing
+her to be lost to him in death. Now none could say that he had changed
+his faith to win a woman, nor could their own consciences whisper to
+them that this was possible, though even at the time he knew it not.
+
+So they understood how through their many trials, dangers, and
+temptations all things had worked together for good to them.
+
+
+
+On the morrow, there in the ship /Luna/, Marcus and Miriam, whom the
+Romans called Pearl-Maiden, were wedded by the bishop Cyril, the
+Captain Gallus giving the bride in marriage, while the white-haired,
+fierce-eyed Nehushta stood at their side and blessed them in the name
+of that dead mother whose command had not been broken.
+
+
+
+
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