Held for the battle of the pit, the young
Roman whom Vergilius had recognized in the council chamber advanced to
meet Herod's son. He had won his freedom in the arena and lost it in
the conspiracy of the prince. He was a tall, lithe, splendid figure of
a man. The heart of the young commander was touched with pity as he
beheld the comely youth. This game, invented by Antipater himself, was
a test of strength and quickness. Nets were the only weapons, strong
sinews and a quick hand the main reliance of either. Each tried to
entangle the other in his net and secure a hold. Then he sought to
rush or drag his adversary to the edge of the pit and force him down.
Weapons lay on every side of the arena below. The unfortunate had,
therefore, a chance to defend himself against the lion.
On the signal to begin, Jew and Roman wrestled fiercely, their weapons
on their arms, but neither fell. Suddenly Antipater broke away and
flung his net. Nimbly the other dodged. Down came the net, grazing
his head. Swiftly he sprang upon the Jew, striving to entangle him.
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