nded by bands of
trumpeters, who from time to time uttered their loud, defiant note.
After them marched the vast army in ranks six deep, divided into legions
and followed by their camp-bearers and squadrons of horse. Lastly were
seen the packs of baggage, and mercenaries by thousands and tens of
thousands. On the Hill of Saul the great host halted and began to
encamp. An hour later a band of horsemen five or six hundred strong
emerged out of this camp and marched along the straight road to
Jerusalem.

"It is Titus himself," said Ithiel. "See, the Imperial Standard goes
before him."

On they came till, from their lofty perch, Miriam, who was keen-sighted,
could see their separate armour and tell the colour of their horses.
Eagerly she searched them with her eyes, for well she guessed that
Marcus would be one of those who accompanied his general upon this
service. That plumed warrior might be he, or that with the purple cloak,
or that who galloped out from near by the Standard on an errand. He was
there; she was sure he was there, and yet they were as far apart as when
the great sea rolled between them.

Now, as they reconnoitred and were passing the Tower of Women, of a
sudden the gate opened, and from alleys and houses where they had lain
in ambush were poured out thousands of Jews. Right through the thin line
of horsemen they pierced, uttering savage cries, then doubled back upon
the severed ends. Many were cut down; Miriam could see them falling from
their horses. The Imperial Standard sank, then rose and sank again to
rise once more. Now dust hid the combat, and she thought that all the
Romans must be slain. But no, for presently they began to appear beyond
the dust, riding back by the way they had come, though fewer than they
were. They had charged through the multitude of Jews and escaped. But
who had escaped and who were left behind? Ah! that she could not tell;
and it was with a sick and anxious heart that Miriam descended the steps
of the tower into the darkness of the caves.

CHAPTER XV

WHAT PASSED IN THE TOWER

Nearly four months had gone by. Perhaps, during the whole history of the
world there never has been and never will be more cruel suffering than
was endured by the inhabitants of Jerusalem during that period, or
rather by the survivors of the nation of the Jews who were crowded
together within its walls. Forgetting their internecine quarrels in the
face of overwhelming danger, too late the f