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.
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