Yesterday Nero came himself to the temple and suggested that certain of the Christians should be sacrificed in a very cruel fashion here as an offering to your spirit.

I answered that this could give it little pleasure, seeing that in your lifetime you also were a Christian.
Thereon he wrung his hands, crying out, 'Oh! what a crime have I committed,' and instantly gave orders that no more Christians should be killed.

So for a little while, thanks to your handiwork, and to me who am called 'the Model,' they are safe--those who are left of them.
"I hear that there are wars and tumults in Judaea, and that Vespasian, a great general, is to be sent to quell them.

If I can I will come with him, but at present--such is the madness of my master--this is too much to hope, unless, indeed, he wearies suddenly of the 'Divine Work' and its attendant 'Model.' "Meanwhile I also cast incense upon your altar, and pray that in these troubles you may come to no harm.
"Miriam, I am most unhappy.

I think of you always and yet I cannot come to you.