"Better here than there," Agrippa responded under his breath, indicating the direction of Jonathan's stronghold.
"Listen," he continued, "and may Morpheus plug this soldier's ears if he knows our fathers' ancient tongue. Canst see my face, brother?"
Marsyas signed his assent.
"Thou sayest thou art a Galilean," Agrippa pursued. "Look now and see if thou discoverest aught familiar in me."
Marsyas raised himself on an elbow and gazed into the Herod's face. Finally he said slowly:
"I have seen thee in Tiberias—in power—as—as prefect! Thou art Herod Agrippa!"
There was silence; the Essene's eyes filled with question and the Herod gave him time to think.
"I had thee arrested," Agrippa resumed when he believed that Marsyas' ideas had reached the point of asking what the Herod had to do with him. "To-morrow thou wilt be fined for striking me and turned loose—to Jonathan—unless thou art helped to escape."
"I understand," said Marsyas with growing light, but without enthusiasm.
"Thou seest I am virtually a prisoner here. I became so, to save thee from Jonathan."