ed from that which we made use of; for its middle shaft was
fixed upon a basis, and the small branches were produced out of it to
a great length, having the likeness of a trident in their position, and
had every one a socket made of brass for a lamp at the tops of them.
These lamps were in number seven, and represented the dignity of the
number seven among the Jews; and the last of all the spoils, was carried
the Law of the Jews. After these spoils passed by a great many men,
carrying the images of Victory, whose structure was entirely either of
ivory or of gold. After which Vespasian marched in the first place,
and Titus followed him; Domitian also rode along with them, and made a
glorious appearance, and rode on a horse that was worthy of admiration.
6. Now the last part of this pompous show was at the temple of Jupiter
Capitolinus, whither when they were come, they stood still; for it was
the Romans' ancient custom to stay till somebody brought the news that
the general of the enemy was slain. This general was Simon, the son of
Gioras, who had then been led in this triumph among the captives; a rope
had also been put upon his head, and he had been drawn into a proper
place in the forum, and had withal been tormented by those that drew him
along; and the law of the Romans required that malefactors condemned to
die should be slain there. Accordingly, when it was related that there
was an end of him, and all the people had set up a shout for joy, they
then began to offer those sacrifices which they had consecrated, in the
prayers used in such solemnities; which when they had finished, they
went away to the palace. And as for some of the spectators, the emperors
entertained them at their own feast; and for all the rest there were
noble preparations made for feasting at home; for this was a festival
day to the city of Rome, as celebrated for the victory obtained by their
army over their enemies, for the end that was now put to their civil
miseries, and for the commencement of their hopes of future prosperity
and happiness.
7. After these triumphs were over, and after the affairs of the Romans
were settled on the surest foundations, Vespasian resolved to build
a temple to Peace, which was finished in so short a time, and in so
glorious a manner, as was beyond all human expectation and opinion: for
he having now by Providence a vast quantity of wealth, besides what he
had formerly gained in his other exploits, he had this
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