In the
circus, there were more shouts and cries. Hermione trembled in the
strong arms of Lycias. He soothed her gently.
"Pray to your God," he said, "that He may bring us safely through."
"Who are you?"
"I am Lycias, a friend of Christians, and I, too would learn of the
faith."
One great danger lay before them. It was the guard at the outer
doorway, which opened on the street. He opposed their exit.
"No one passes here," he said.
"No one except me and my friends," responded the gladiator, boldly.
"Dare you say to Lycias that he may not pass?"
The soldier's face relaxed, but still he stood in the path.
"To-day, I have specially strict orders lest some of the Christians
escape. For my part, I would willingly let some of those poor
creatures flee, but I value my head."
"Perhaps thou wilt not gainsay me when thou seest my pass."
Lycias held up the bronze lizard. Really, the big gladiator himself
doubted the power of this symbol. He began to fear that they would all
be forced back into the arena, which was sure death, not only for
those whom he wished to save, but for himself, also.
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