nd-twenty; believing that, in point of courage, the one
were equal to the other. But each candidate had to be introduced by
others, who vouched for his activity, hardihood, and courage.

One of his objects was to avoid increasing his band to too great
dimensions. The number of those ready to go up to defend Jerusalem,
and eager to enroll themselves as followers of this new
leader--whose mission was now generally believed in, in that part
of the country--was very large; but John knew that a multitude
would be unwieldy; that he would find it impossible to carry out,
with thousands of men, tactics dependent for success upon celerity
of movement; and, moreover, that did he arrive in Jerusalem with so
great a following, he would at once become an object of jealousy to
the leaders of the factions there.

He therefore limited the number to four hundred men; urging upon
all others who presented themselves, or sent messages to him, to
form themselves into similar bands; to choose leaders, and to act
as independent bodies, hanging upon the rear of the Romans,
harassing them with frequent night alarms, cutting off their
convoys, attacking their working parties; and always avoiding
encounters with strong bodies of the Romans, by retreating into the
hills. He said that, although he would not receive more men into
his own force than he thought could be easily handled, he should be
glad to act in concert with the other leaders so that, at times,
the bands might all unite in a common enterprise; and especially
that, if they entered Jerusalem, they might hold together, and thus
be enabled to keep aloof from the parties of John of Gischala, or
Eleazar, who were contending for the mastery of the city.

His advice was taken, and several bands similar to his own were
formed; but their leaders felt that they needed the prestige and
authority which John had gained, and that their followers would not
obey their orders with the faith which was inspired, in the members
of John's own band, by their belief in his special mission. Their
representations on this subject were so urgent that John, at their
request, attended a meeting at which ten of these chiefs were
present.

It was held in a farmhouse, not far from the spot where Gamala had
stood. John was embarrassed at the respect which these men, all of
them several years older than himself, paid him; but he accepted
the position quietly, for he felt that the belief that existed, as
to his h