Page:Jewish Fairy Book (Gerald Friedlander).djvu/177

Rh he cried in a voice full of contempt: &quot;How now! Do ye Jews dare to enter our palace and to come before our divine presence? Think ye that ye can work miracles better than the Roman physicians?&quot;

&quot;Tell us, mighty Cæsar, have the imperial physicians been able to cure the beautiful princess?&quot;

&quot;Thus far they have not been successful."

&quot;We shall be successful even this very day. Know indeed that life and death are not in the hands of man, but only in the power of God in whom we believe. He has sent us, this is our belief, to heal the princess. Was not your Majesty's daughter so happy and well but yesterday? Was she not like a ray of warm sunshine on a cold winter's day? Did she not rejoice your heart with her bright and cheery smile?&quot;

&quot;Ye speak truly indeed. Come now, what do you demand as your reward if ye heal my beloved child?&quot;

&quot;Grant but one petition which we will put before your Majesty.&quot;

&quot;I swear by all the gods to do this. Know ye that the oath of a Roman Emperor is never broken."

&quot;So let it be according to your imperial word,&quot; said Rabbi Simeon.

&quot;Stay. Mark ye well, ye wise men of Israel, if ye fail to heal my daughter, ye shall be thrown this very day into the arena. The famished lions will enjoy their meal when they devour your bodies.&quot;

"We hear your Majesty's warning. Have no fear.