On the whole, however, he is a good king who causes money to be spent, which is what kings are for--in Judaea--where they are but feathers puffed up by the breath of Caesar, to fall if he cease to blow.

But look!" As he spoke, a figure appeared upon the steps of the palace who made some communication to the crowd, whereon a great wail went up to the very skies.
"You have your wish," said Amram; "Herod is dead or dying, and now, I suppose, as his son is but a child, that we shall be ruled by some accursed thief of a Roman procurator with a pocket like a sack without a bottom.

Surely that old bishop of yours who preached in the amphitheatre this morning, must have had a hint of what was coming, from his familiar spirit; or perhaps he saw the owl and guessed its errand.

Moreover, I think that troubles are brewing for others besides Herod, since the old man said as much.
"What became of him and the rest ?" asked Nehushta.
"Oh! a few were trampled to death, and others the Jews stirred up the mob to stone, saying that they had bewitched the king, which they, who were disappointed of the games, did gladly.

Some, however, are said to have escaped, and, like yourselves, lie in hiding." Nehushta glanced at her mistress, now fast asleep, her pale face resting on her arm.
"The world is hard--for Christians," she said.
"Friend, it is hard for all, as, were I to tell you my own story, even you would admit," and he sighed.