“And now, O father,” said Titus, delighted at having attained the rank of Cæsar--for to be scrupulously exact that was his title as heir-apparent, the reigning emperor being called Augustus--“now, O father, remember your promise and release Josephus from his bonds, else will it be a shameful thing that the man who told beforehand of your coming to empire, and hath been the minister of a divine message to you, should still be retained in the condition of a captive.” It was in the camp at Cæsarea that these words were spoken. So Vespasian sent for Josephus, who came still wearing the chain that bound him to the guardian soldier. The new emperor gave orders that the captive should be set at liberty; and accordingly the soldier was about to loose the chain when Titus intervened, suggesting that the chain should be _cut_ from him, this being the Roman method with such as were bound without just cause. This advice being agreeable to Vespasian, a smith was sent for, a fellow strong and dexterous of arm, who cut the chain to pieces. “Josephus, thou art free,” exclaimed Vespasian, “and the citizenship of Rome is thine.” “Call me no more Josephus,” said the liberated one, boldly venturing to assume the name of his imperial patron. “Henceforth let all men know me as Titus Flavius.” “Titus,” said Vespasian, referring to his son, “Titus has the glory of being Cæsar. Josephus has----” “Flavius, sire,” murmured the adopter of that name, remonstratingly. “Flavius, then, to please you. Flavius has received the honor of the citizenship. What honor,” he continued, turning to Crispus, “what honor shall we confer upon you?” On the point of replying that the emperor’s friendship was of itself a sufficient honor, Crispus paused, suddenly seized by a happy idea. “There is one favor I would ask, sire--a very simple one.” “Name it.” “’Tis of a private nature. I prefer to state it before you and Titus only.” Vespasian looked surprised. He gave a nod, and Josephus and the others withdrew from the tent. “Now, Crispus, for what do you make request?” “It may not be known to you, sire, that I have a wife.” It certainly was news to Vespasian, as his looks plainly showed. Crispus proceeded to relate in as few words as possible the story of his wedding at Beth-tamar. “Eh! what is this?” said the old general, turning with a chiding air to Titus. “You were Crispus’ paranymph, and yet you have never told me of it. Fie on you! But what has this to do with the favor you would ask?” continued he, addressing Crispus. “You, sire, as emperor, are supreme in matters of the law. ’Tis yours to see that the terms of a contract be fulfilled. Therefore I ask that when I discover this woman she shall be made to keep her nuptial pledge.” “Find her, and if you want her, you shall have her, be she never so reluctant,” said Vespasian, smiling grimly. “Who is _she_ to refuse my bravest tribune?”