Now the gilt spike that crowned her pillar was made fast with
angle-irons let into the marble and the edge of one of these irons
projected somewhat and was rough. Looking at it the thought came into
Miriam's mind that it might serve to rub through the cord with which her
hands were bound. So standing with her back to the pillar she began her
task, to find that it must be done little by little, since the awkward
movement wearied her, moreover, her swollen arms chafing against the
marble of the column became intolerably sore. Yet, although the pain
made her weep, from time to time she persevered. But night fell before
the frayed cord parted.
In the mist also the Romans came near to the gate, notwithstanding the
risk, for they were very curious about her, and called to her asking
why she was bound there. She replied in the Latin language, which was
understood by very few of the Jews, that it was because she had rescued
a Roman from death. Before they could speak again those who questioned
her were driven back by a shower of arrows discharged from the wall, but
in the distance she thought that she saw one of them make report to an
officer, who on receipt of it seemed to give some orders.
Meanwhile, also under cover of the mist, the Jews were preparing
themselves for battle.
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