37, and of Orosius, viii.

5, inclines to the opinion of those who extend the persecution to the provinces.

Mosheim rather leans to that side on this much disputed question, (c.

xxxv.) Neander takes the view of Gibbon, which is in general that of the most learned writers.

There is indeed no evidence, which I can discover, of its reaching the provinces; and the apparent security, at least as regards his life, with which St.Paul pursued his travels during this period, affords at least a strong inference against a rigid and general inquisition against the Christians in other parts of the empire .-- M.] It is somewhat remarkable that the flames of war consumed, almost at the same time, the temple of Jerusalem and the Capitol of Rome; [44] and it appears no less singular, that the tribute which devotion had destined to the former, should have been converted by the power of an assaulting victor to restore and adorn the splendor of the latter.