They differed as to whether he were yet born and as to his divinity, his character, and his purposes.

The Sanhedrim held that when he came into the world there would be certain signs and portents seen of all men.
This conflict of authority increased the confusion of Herod.

When Vergilius came to his capital the king was mired on the very edge of the great mystery.
Powers of darkness ruled the city of Jerusalem.

The sword, the lance, the dagger, and the wheel were wreaking vengeance and creating new perils while they were removing old ones.

The king had tried vainly to repair the past.