That morning, Heraklas had gone out to seek some Christians whom he
knew. Two weeks ago he had sought them for the first time to tell
them that he wished to join their number. Greatly had he and they
rejoiced together.
"Witness a good confession, as did thy brother Timokles," an old man
admonished Heraklas.
Almost daily, since then, Heraklas had sought some Christian who
taught him more perfectly the way of the Lord.
Today, as Heraklas sat in a house, secretly studying another portion
of the Book than was written on his own papyrus, a Christian woman
came hastily to him, and told him the tidings concerning his
brother.
"He hath assuredly come!" affirmed the woman. "Vitruvius saw him
carried to the ship with other Christians!"
The before eagerly-read papyrus dropped from Heraklas' hand. He grew
weak and faint. The woman looked at him pityingly.
A wild impulse seized Heraklas. He rushed from the house to the
street. His brother, his Timokles, back again! Back from the desert!
Back in his city-home of Alexandria! And not to be allowed to draw
one free breath, to come back to the house, to see Cocce, to see
him, Heraklas! What could be done! What could be done! To be taken
to Rome to meet the lions!
Heraklas ran toward the northern gate. He bethought himself of
caution, and tried to go with his usual step.
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