"We believe the Messiah is already born," said a councillor.
"Moreover, some here have beheld his face."
"And where, then, does he dwell?" Vergilius inquired.
"That you shall know some day. At the next meeting of the council it may be told. We wait only for the fulness of time. He dwells in a distant city, and not long ago I spoke with him. He sent his love and greeting to every member of our council. He bids you wait his time, when all your prayers shall be answered."
"Shall there be signs of his coming?" So spoke Vergilius.
"There shall be signs, and you shall hear of them in this chamber."
"And what shall be the aim of the king?"
"To establish the reign of justice."
Vergilius queried much regarding the government of the new king, and got replies adding more to his curiosity than to his knowledge.
It was near the middle hour of the night when a voice announced: "The keeper of the new door will now leave the council."
Vergilius heard a stir coming near him in the darkness. Hands were laid upon him, and, presently, one took his arm and led him away. The two climbed a long flight of stairs and made hastily across a broad roof. At a railed opening they came to other stairs, and, descending, entered a passage, dark as had been the chamber. At its end the Roman received a password. Then a door swung and again he was on the pavements of Jerusalem, and, far away, could see the lights of Temple Hill.