I desire
to call the men of my legion who were with me, none of whom I see here
to-day except that man who has given evidence against me, a rogue
whom, I remember, I caused to be scourged for theft, and dismissed his
company. But they are in Egypt, so how can I summon them? As for the
Jew, he is an old enemy of mine, who was guilty of murder in his youth,
and whom once I overcame in a duel in Judaea, sparing his life. It is
true that when my back was turned he struck me with his sword, and as I
flew at him smote me a blow upon the head, from the effects of which I
became senseless. In this state I was taken prisoner and lay for weeks
sick in a vault, in the care of some people of the Jews, who nursed me.
From them I escaped to Rome, desiring to report myself to Titus Caesar,
my master. I appeal to Titus Caesar."
"He is absent and I represent him," said Domitian.
"Then," answered Marcus, "I appeal to Vespasian Caesar, to whom I will
tell all. I am a Roman noble of no mean rank, and I have a right to
be tried by Caesar, not by a packed court, whose president has a grudge
against me for private matters."
"Insolent!" shouted Domitian. "Your appeal shall be laid before Caesar,
as it must--that is, if he will hear it.
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