That Caleb still lived Miriam knew, for she had seen him, covered with dust and blood, driven back by the charge of Roman horse up the steps of the gateway.

This, indeed, he was one of the last to pass before it was closed and barred to keep out the pursuing Romans.

After that she saw no more of him for many a month.
So that day also, the last of the long siege, wore away.

At nightfall the thick mist cleared, and for the last time the rich rays of sunset shone upon the gleaming roof and burning pinnacles of the Temple and were reflected from the dazzling whiteness of its walls.

Never had it looked more beautiful than it did in that twilight as it towered, still perfect, above the black ruins of the desolated city.