"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.
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