For a moment they rode in silence. David was first to speak.
"Forgive me," said he, with fear of his imprudence. "My tongue has gone too far. I am true to Herod, being his debtor, for he gave me freedom. But I am of the house of David."
"Fear not," said Vergilius. "Never shall I betray the broken hearted.
I give you friendship."
"And I give you gratitude," was the answer of the Jew.
"I am as a child here in Judea and seek understanding. You shall be my teacher."
For a time neither spoke; soon David asked: "Will you tell me of her my sister is now serving?"
"Of all the daughters of Rome she is noblest. We love each other. Ah, friend! 'Tis a wonder—this great love. My tongue halts when I think of it."
He paused, in meditation.
"I have heard much of it here in Judea—a love that exalts the soul," said David.
"And changes the heart of man with all that is in it. My love has filled me with a tender feeling for all women; it has made me to hate injustice and even to complain of the gods."