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.
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