"And yours?"
"And ours," said all, making low obeisance.
"You swear me absolute obedience?"
"Obedience absolute. There can be no other sort of kingship."
One by one his brethren took his hand; then ranged in a circle about him. There was no need of a crown to give majesty to this man: his form towering; his face imperious; and around him the very atmosphere almost visibly radiant with the prestige of victories such as Heaven had never before given to man. Nor did his brethren need princely robing to make them feel due pride in this hour of the founding of the new Dynasty.
"I thank you, my brothers, worthy all of the blood of our father Mattathias. Hear, then, my command. I exact no vow, but trust your love to guard your loyalty."
"Our brother's word is our law," said Simon.
"His word our law," went round the little circle.
"Gather close about me," said Judas.