And there came to the heart of Ben Joreb a fear that this man might
prove more terrible than his father.
"We feel it," said Manius, with inner smiles that showed not upon his
face.
"Then be servants of my love."
"And of our own welfare?"
"Certainly! You shall each have a palace in Jerusalem and fifty
thousand aurei; and you, Manius, shall command the forces on land and
sea, and you, John ben Joreb, of the tribe of Aaron, shall be
high-priest."
"I agree," said Manius, an overwhelming cupidity in the words.
"And I agree," said the Jew, who had entered upon this intrigue with
motives of patriotism, and now, although suspicious of the result, was
committed beyond a chance of turning.
"Angels of mercy!" Antipater exclaimed, rising and taking a hand of
each in his. "My love shall be ever a shield and weapon for you. One
other thing. The couriers who bring to Rome news of my father's
death--bid them hurry and take with them, also, word of the illness of
that dog Vergilius. After they leave let him not linger in needless
pain--do you understand me? For that, I say, each of you shall have
five thousand aurei added to his wealth.
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