SAUL'S NEIGHBORS IN TARSUS CHAPTER SIX - Page 2

IN THE NEXT few days, Esther and Miriam made several trips to the Helvius House, delivering broth at mealtimes, advising about the locations of furnishings in Tarsus, and whatever else they could do to help their new neighbors get settled.

One warm afternoon when Saul was walking at his usual fast pace down the shady side of the avenue, he saw a youth approaching. The boy wore a Roman multi-wrapped toga and strode the street with an air of arrogance about him. He stopped directly in front of Saul. "I am Marcus Tullius. You must be Saul, the brother of Miriam."

"I am Saul, Miriam's older brother," he said. He did not feel too flattered to think he was known as Miriam's brother to this grand nephew of Cicero. Not that he did not love and admire his sister greatly. But he always preferred to be known on his own merits, especially by other males.

"Your sister said your father is a teacher, and excels in history, ancient and modern. She said he is well read in the writings of the Greeks and Romans, as well as your own," Marcus said.

Saul nodded, and briefly said that his father, like his grandfather Rabbi Ben-Lemuel, was a respected Pharisee, a teacher at the synagogue.

"I am at the university now," Marcus said. "I have been asked to write a paper on the races of people in the population of Tarsus. I am wondering if it would be asking too much for you to give me some insight into the origin and presence of the Jewish people in this city. I have not known any Jews before."

Saul did not feel like offering him any help. The typical air of superiority about this Roman boy made him want to ignore him. But he remembered an old story about Ben-Lemuel and a Tribune named Marcellus that gave him pause. He should not judge the character of his new neighbor so hastily. "I think if we could spend some time in our garden, I will be able to give you the information you need. Would that serve your need."

Marcus brightened as if surprised at Saul's cooperation. "Yes. Yes, that would be just fine. When can we do this?"