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[51]
However, this destruction of the works [about the temple], and of
the men, occasioned a much greater number, and those of a more warlike
sort, to get together, to oppose the Romans. These encompassed the palace
round, and threatened to deploy all that were in it, unless they went their
ways quickly; for they promised that Sabinus should come to no harm, if
he would go out with his legion. There were also a great many of the king's
party who deserted the Romans, and assisted the Jews; yet did the most
warlike body of them all, who were three thousand of the men of Sebaste,
go over to the Romans. Rufus also, and Gratus, their captains, did the
same, (Gratus having the foot of the king's party under him, and Rufus
the horse,) each of whom, even without the forces under them, were of great
weight, on account of their strength and wisdom, which turn the scales
in war. Now the Jews in the siege, and tried to break down walls of the
fortress, and cried out to Sabinus and his party, that they should go their
ways, and not prove a hinderance to them, now they hoped, after a long
time, to recover that ancient liberty which their forefathers had enjoyed.
Sabinus indeed was well contented to get out of the danger he was in, but
he distrusted the assurances the Jews gave him, and suspected such gentle
treatment was but a bait laid as a snare for them: this consideration,
together with the hopes he had of succor from Varus, made him bear the
siege still longer.
1
1 HEROD'S VETERAN SOLDIERS BECOME TUMULTUOUS. THE ROBBERIES OF JUDAS. SIMON AND ATHRONOEUS TAKE THE NAME OF KING UPON THEM.
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