“ Which would mean the end of Roman rule,” I broke in.
“ That is where Caiaphas and Hanan plot to embroil Rome,” Miriam explained. “It is not true. It is a lie they have made.”
Pilate nodded and asked:
“ Is there not somewhere in your ancient books a prophecy that the priests here twist into the intent of this fisherman’s mind?”
To this she agreed, and gave him the citation. I relate the incident to evidence the depth of Pilate’s study of this people he strove so hard to keep in order.
“ What I have heard,” Miriam continued, “is that this Jesus preaches the end of the world and the beginning of God’s kingdom, not here, but in heaven.”
“ I have had report of that,” Pilate raid. “It is true. This Jesus holds the justness of the Roman tax. He holds that Rome shall rule until a
