"O God of our fathers! Thou who didst bring Israel through the Red Sea, save us, or we perish!" exclaimed Rebecca.
They were swept along; and when the boat was just about to fill, it was dashed violently upon the shore. The momentum which crushed their frail bark as it struck landed them suddenly upon the ground.
The children of Benoni were saved. Partially stunned, but otherwise unharmed, they arose, and in each other's embrace looked up, and thanked the God of Israel for deliverance. Turning to explore their landing-place, they found themselves in the yard of a large house or palace, which was brilliantly lighted, and from which issued the confused noise of voices, mingled with music and laughter.
"We have fallen among the Gentiles," said Saulus.
On either side of the yard was a high wall, and nothing remained but to knock at the Cydnus gate of the palace for admission and relief. They were kindly received in the basement by the slaves in attendance, who took them in, and administered warmth and refreshment.
At length Chloe, the head female slave, who had informed Marcius of their sad plight, received a message from him. She turned to Rebecca.
"O my fair Jewess! Marcius, the master, craves an audience with thee in the hall above."
Chloe then conducted her up-stairs into the presence of the Roman, and Saulus followed unbidden.
Marcius advanced with a gracious bow, taking no notice of the boy.
"Methinks thou art an unexpected, but very welcome guest."
Rebecca gave no answer, but drew back with a shudder.
"Come, my fair one! It becometh us to dispense with formality. Thou hast escaped the waves, and we give thee shelter and protection. Welcome to these fair halls. As the poet hath sung:--
'And no god on heaven or earth-- Not the Paphian Queen of Mirth, Nor the vivid Lord of Light, Nor the triple Maid of Night, Nor the Thunderer's self, shall be Blest and honor'd more than thee!'"
"O thou noble Roman!" said the Hebrew lad, opening his eyes wide upon Marcius. "We thank thee for thy hospitality to the children of Benoni; and now we will depart. Peace be with thee!"
"My young son of Israel! The tempest still rages without. The night is chill and boisterous for thy fair sister."
"We mind not the storm, and the God of our fathers will be with us. I pray thee, let us depart in peace."