What a gathering of the enemies of God and man! Crowding at the gates were gladiators from Greece and Rome; Arab chiefs upon camels, with horses trained for the race; troops of rich men with armed retainers; hunters bringing wild beasts in cages lashed upon heavy carts; squads of Roman cavalry; gamblers, peddlers, thieves, bandits, musicians, dancers, and singers, some walking, some riding horse or camel.

Many had travelled far for one purpose--to behold the great king.

Now solemn whispers of gossip had gone to every side of the city.

Herod was ill, so said they, and had not long to live.

That morning of the day before the games the old king had summoned Vergilius.
"I will not be cheated by God or man," said he, fiercely.