the African
was like that of a fiend. Surprise, joy, and triumph gleamed in his
sinister eyes. Seizing his sword in a firm grasp, he struck Macer to the
heart.

"Lord Jesus receive my spirit--" The words were drowned in a torrent of
blood, and this humble but bold witness for Christ passed away from
earth to join the noble army of martyrs.

"Are there many such scenes as this?" asked Marcellus.

"Often. Whenever Christians appear. They will fight any number of
beasts. Young girls will come firmly to meet lions and tigers, but not
one of the madmen will fight with men. The populace are bitterly
disappointed in Macer. He is the very best of all the gladiators, and in
becoming a Christian he has acted like a fool."

"It must be a wonderful religion which could make a common gladiator act
thus," said Marcellus.

"You'll have a chance to learn more about it."

"How so?"

"Haven't you heard? You are appointed to unearth some of these
Christians. They have got down in the Catacombs, and they must be hunted
up."

"I should think they have enough already. Fifty were burned this morning."

"And a hundred were beheaded last week. But that is nothing. The city is
swarming with them. The emperor has determined to restore the old
religion perfectly. Since these Christians have appeared the empire has
been declining. He has made up his mind to annihilate them. They are a
curse, and must be dealt with accordingly. You will soon understand."

"I haven't been in Rome long enough to know," said Marcellus meekly,
"and I do not understand what the Christians really believe. I have
heard almost every crime imputed to them. However, if it be as you say I
will have a chance of learning."

But now another scene attracted their attention.

An old man entered upon the scene. His form was bowed, and his hair
silver white with extreme old age. His appearance was hailed with shouts
of derision, although his majestic face and dignified manner were only
calculated to excite admiration. As the shouts of laughter and yells of
derision came down to his ears he raised his head and uttered a few words.

"Who is he?" asked Marcellus.

"Alexander, a teacher of the abominable Christian sect. He is so
obstinate that he will not recant--"

"Hush, he is speaking."

"Romans!" said the old man, "I am a Christian. My God died for me, and I
gladly lay down my life for him--"

A loud outburst of yells and execrations from the fierce mob drowned