So, therefore, as the sun rose on the nones of November in that year of the birth of Jesus, they set out with a troop of horse on the Appian Way.
They were midland in Thrace on their way to Piraeus, where a ship waited them, when they were overtaken by the cavalcade of Antipater.
The prince, summoned by Herod, was now returning, under royal banners, to receive his inheritance of glory and power.

A letter had started him, which, according to the great historian of that time, was warm with affectionate greeting.

Antipater, also, was to take ship for Judea.

He had learned of the departure of Appius and Arria, and had pushed his horses to the limit of their speed in order to overtake them.

When he first saw the troop of the young Roman, he left his column and came rushing on to greet them.
The troop of Appius quickly faced about and stood with raised lances.
"Proud son and daughter of Publius," said Antipater, drawing rein, "my heart, my horses, and my men are at your service!" He was now splendid in royal vestments of purple and gold.
"Our gratitude is not less than our surprise," said Appius.