4
But Hermon the elephant keeper promptly began to carry out the orders.
5
The servants in charge of the Jews went out in the evening, bound the hands of those enduring this distress, and arranged for their continued custody through the night. They expected that the entire race would come to a ruinous end.
6
To the Gentiles it seemed that the Jews were entirely without refuge, since in their chains, distress surrounded them on every side.
7
But with persistent cries and tears they all called upon their almighty Lord and merciful God and father, who rules over every power. They continued to pray
8
that he would turn away the evil plot against them and rescue them with a glorious display of power from their impending fate.