Do you believe?"
"I have said that I believe," murmured Miriam.
Indeed, in those days when men still lived who had seen the Christ and
His voice still echoed through the world, to the strong faith of His
followers, it was not hard to credit that His angel did descend to earth
to protect and save at their Master's bidding.
So Cyril, the bishop, went, and that night from many a catacomb prayers
rose up to Heaven for Miriam in her peril. That night also she slept
peacefully.
Two hours before the dawn, Julia awoke her and arrayed her in the
glittering, hateful garments. When all was ready, with tears she bade
her farewell.
"Child, child," she said, "you have become to me as my own daughter was,
and now I know not how and when we shall meet again."
"Perhaps sooner than you think," Miriam answered. "But if not, if,
indeed, I speak to you for the last time, why, then, my blessings on you
who have played a mother's part to a helpless maid that was no kin of
yours. Yes, and on you Gallus also, who have kept me safe through so
many dangers."
"And who hopes, dear one, to keep you safe through many more. Since
I may not swear by the gods before you, I swear it by the Eagles that
Domitian will do well to have a care how he deals by you.
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