"But you are my prisoner. I never neglect the worship of the gods. You must come and assist me at my devotions."
"I cannot," said the boy firmly.
"Why not?"
"I am a Christian."
"I knew it. And you have friends, in the Catacombs, and you are going there now. They are the destitute people to whom you are carrying provisions, and the errand on which you are is for them."
The boy held down his head and was silent. "I want you now to take me to the entrance of the Catacombs."
"O, generous soldier, have mercy! Do not ask me that. I cannot do it!"
"You must."
"I will not betray my friends."
"You need not. It is nothing to show the entrance among the many thousands that lead down below. Do you think that the guards do not know every one?"