will of God[1] be done."[2] So when he heard that they were come, he went down and spake with them. And as those that were present marvelled at his age and constancy, some of them said, "Was so much effort[3] made to capture such a venerable man?"[4] Immediately then, in that very hour, he ordered that something to eat and drink should be set before them, as much indeed as they cared for, while he besought them to allow him an hour to pray without disturbance. And on their giving him leave, he stood and prayed, being full of the grace of God, so that he could not cease[5] for two full hours, to the astonishment of them that heard him, insomuch that many began to repent that they had come forth against so godly and venerable an old man.
Chap. viii.—Polycarp is brought into the city.
Now, as soon as he had ceased praying, having made mention of all that had at any time come in contact with him, both small and great, illustrious and obscure, as well as the whole catholic church throughout the world, the time of his departure having arrived, they set him upon an ass, and conducted him into the city, the day being that of the great Sabbath. And the Irenarch Herod, accompanied by his father Nicetes (both riding in a chariot[6]), met him, and taking him up into the chariot, they seated themselves beside him, and endeavoured to persuade him, saying, "What harm is there in saying, Lord Cæsar,[7] and in sacrificing, with the other ceremonies observed on such occasions, and so make sure of safety?" But he at first gave them no answer; and when they continued to urge him, he said, "I shall not do as
- ↑ Some read, "the Lord."
- ↑ Comp. Matt. vi. 10; Acts xxi. 14.
- ↑ Or, "diligence."
- ↑ Jacobson reads, "and [marvelling] that they had used so great diligence to capture," etc.
- ↑ Or, "be silent."
- ↑ Jacobson deems these words an interpolation.
- ↑ Or, "Cæsar is Lord," all the Mss. having κύριος instead of κύριε, as usually printed.
