e peaceful inhabitants were plundered
and ill treated, and the condition of those within the walls was as
terrible as was that of those without. Anarchy, plunder, and
carnage extended throughout Judea and, while the destruction of
Jerusalem was threatened by the Roman army in the north, the Jews
made no preparation, whatever, for its defense, but spent their
whole time and energy in civil strife.

When, therefore, the numerous band who had now gathered round him
urged him to lead them down to Jerusalem, John refused to do so.
Getting upon an elevated spot, where his voice could be heard by
them all, he said:

"My friends, you have heard, as well as I, what is taking place in
Jerusalem and the country round it. Did we go down there, what good
could we do? We should be drawn into the strife, on one side or
another; and the swords which should be kept for the defense of the
Temple against the Romans would be stained with Jewish blood.
Moreover, we should aid to consume the food stored away in the
granaries.

"Nor can we, through the winter, attempt any enterprise against the
Romans here. The woes of Galilee are over. Tens of thousands have
fallen, but those that survive can go about their business and till
their fields in peace. Were we to renew the war, here, we should
bring upon them a fresh outburst of the Roman vengeance.

"Therefore, there is naught for us to do, now; but in the spring,
when the Romans get into motion against Jerusalem, we will march to
its defense We have naught to do with the evil deeds that are being
performed there; we have but to do our duty, and the first duty of
every Jew is to die, if need be, in the defense of the Temple.
Therefore, let us now disperse to our homes. When the first news
comes that the Romans are stirring, those of you who are disposed
to follow me, and obey my orders, can assemble here.

"But let only such come. Let the rest make their way, singly, to
Jerusalem. I am resolved to have only such with me who will follow
me as one man. You know how the factions rage in the city. A
compact body of men, true to themselves and their leader, can
maintain themselves aloof from the strife, and make themselves
respected by both parties; but single men must take sides with one
faction or other, or be ill treated by both.

"We are wanted, at home. The fields are lying untilled, for want of
hands; therefore let us lay aside our arms until the spring, and do
our duty to our families