another chant which was sung as before:

"Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men,
And he will dwell with them,
And they shall be his people,
And God himself shall be with them
And be their God.
And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes,
And there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor sighing,
Neither shall there be any more pain,
For the former things are passed away. Amen.
Blessing, and glory, and wisdom.
And thanksgiving, and honor, and power, and might,
Be unto our God
For ever and ever. Amen."

Now the congregation began to disperse. Pollio walked forward, leading
Marcellus. At the sight of his martial figure and glittering armor
they all started backward, and would have fled by the different paths.
But Marcellus called in a loud voice,

"Fear not, Christians, I am alone and in your power."

Upon this they all turned back, and looked at him with anxious
curiosity. The aged man who led the meeting advanced and looked
earnestly upon him.

"Who are you, and why do you seek us out in the last resting-place that
is left to us on earth?"

"Do not suspect me of evil. I come alone, unattended. I am at your mercy."

"But what can a soldier and a Pretorian wish of us? Are you pursued? Are
you a criminal? Is your life in danger?"

"No. I am an officer high in rank and authority. But I have all my life
been seeking anxiously after the truth. I have heard much of you
Christians, but in these times of persecution it is difficult to find
you in Rome. I have sought you here."

At this the aged man requested the assembly to withdraw, that he might
converse with the new comer. The others readily did so, and retired by
different ways, feeling much relieved. A pale lady advanced eagerly to
Pollio and caught him in her arms.

"How long you were, my son!"

"I encountered this officer, dear mother, and was detained."

"Thank God you are safe. But who is he?"

"I think he is an honest man," said the boy, "see how he confides in us."

"Caecilia," said the leader, "do not go away for a little time." The
lady remained, and a few others did the same.

"I am Honorius," said the old man, addressing Marcellus, "a humble elder
in the Church of Christ. I believe that you are sincere and earnest.
Tell us now what you want with us."

"My name is Marcellus, and I am a captain in the Pretorian Guard."

"Alas!" cried Honorius, and clasping his hands he fell back in