"My sons are no longer with us," he said. "They are abroad in the world, preparing themselves to be greater men than their father. But go, be refreshed; it shall be an evening of rejoicing. Lydia, be my right hand and give my guests comfort."
He bowed the Herod and his family out of the chamber and they followed the girl to various apartments for rest and change of raiment.
The alabarch turned to the proconsul.
"If thou wilt follow me, sir—"
"No; I thank thee; I shall return to my house and prepare for thy hospitality. But tell me this: what does Agrippa here?"
"He comes to borrow money, I believe."
"Of you?"
"Doubtless."
"Put him off until you have consulted me. He is not a safe borrower."