15
Well; since I have done this, said he, be the cause what it may, shall I not enter with or without your consent?
16
And when the priests fell down in their sacred vestments imploring the Greatest God to come and help in time of need, and to avert the violence of the fierce aggressor, and when they filled the temple with lamentations and tears,
17
then those who had been left behind in the city were scared, and rushed forth, uncertain of the event.
18
Virgins, who had been shut up within their chambers, came out with their mothers, scattering dust and ashes on their heads, and filling the streets with outcries.
19
Women, but recently separated off, left their bridal chambers, left the reserve that befitted them, and ran about the city in a disorderly manner.
20
New-born babes were deserted by the mothers or nurses who waited upon them; some here, some there, in houses, or in fields; these now, with an ardour which could not be checked, swarmed into the Most High temple.
21
Various were the prayers offered up by those who assembled in this place, on account of the unholy attempt of the king.
22
Along with these there were some of the citizens who took courage, and would not submit to his obstinacy, and his intention of carrying out his purpose.
23
Calling out to arms, and to die bravely in defence of the law of their fathers, they created a great uproar in the place, and were with difficulty brought back by the aged and the elders to the station of prayer which they had occupied before.
24
During this time the multitude kept on praying.
25
The elders who surrounded the king strove in many ways to divert his haughty mind from the design which he had formed.