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.
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