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.
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