When the captain Gallus reached the outskirts of Rome he halted, for he did not desire that Miriam should be led through the streets in the daytime, and thus cause questions to be asked concerning her. Also he sent on a messenger bidding the man find out his wife, Julia, if she were still alive, since of this Gallus, who had not seen her for several years, could tell nothing, and inform her that he would be with her shortly, bringing with him a maiden who had been placed in his charge by Titus. Before nightfall, the messenger returned, and with him Julia herself, a woman past middle-age, but, although grey-haired, still handsome and stately. Miriam saw their meeting, which was a touching sight, since this childless couple who had been married for almost thirty years, had now been separated for a long time. Moreover, a rumour had reached Julia that her husband was not only wounded, but dead, wherefore her joy and thankfulness at his coming were even greater than they would otherwise have been. One thing, however, Miriam noted, that whereas her friend and benefactor, Gallus, held up his hands and thanked the gods that he found his wife living and well, Julia on her part said: “Aye, I thank God,” touching her breast with her fingers as she spoke the words. Presently the matron seemed to notice her, and, looking at her with a doubtful eye, asked: “How comes it, husband, that you are in charge of this captive Jewess, if Jewess she be who is so fair?” “By the orders of Titus Cæsar, wife,” he answered, “to whom she must be delivered on his arrival. She was condemned to perish on the gate Nicanor as a traitress to the Jews and a Nazarene.” Julia started and looked at the girl over her shoulder. “Are you of that faith, daughter?” she asked in a changed voice, crossing her hands upon her breast as though by chance. “I am, mother,” answered Miriam, repeating the sign. “Well, well, husband,” said Julia, “the maid’s tale can wait. Whether she was a traitress to the Jews, or a follower of Christus, is not our affair. At least she is in your charge, and therefore welcome to me,” and stepping to where Miriam stood with bowed head she kissed her on the forehead, saying aloud: “I greet you, daughter, who are so sweet to see and in misfortune,” adding beneath her breath, “in the Name you know.” Then Miriam was sure that she had fallen into the hands of a woman who was a Christian, and was thankful in her heart, for while the Cæsars sat upon the Roman throne the Christians of every clime, rank and race were one great family.