The Rider Haggard Library

Pearl-Maiden Chapter 21 - The Caesars And Prince Domitian

In which the Jewish maiden Miriam finds refuge in the humble household of Julia and Gallus in Rome, where kindness and faith offer her brief solace amid uncertain fates, while the city’s powerful rulers deliberate over her destiny with curious eyes and divided hearts. Thus, amidst the grand preparations for a triumphal procession that will display the spoils of war, the tension between Roman princes reveals the perilous position of one so fair and so frail beneath the glare of imperial ambition.

Pearl-Maiden Chapter 20 - The Merchant Demetrius

In which the hapless Marcus lies captive and grievously wounded among the secret Essene brethren, while Nehushta tends him with grim devotion and hope flickers faintly that Miriam yet lives beyond the ruinous fall of Jerusalem. Meanwhile, the loyal Caleb, disguised and desperate, seeks tidings of the Pearl-Maiden amidst the desolation, as Demetrius, the cunning merchant, embarks upon a distant and perilous journey laden with treasure, their fates slowly converging toward Rome.

Pearl-Maiden Chapter 19 - Pearl-Maiden

In which the brave and tender-hearted Miriam, taken captive in the throes of war, slowly regains her reason amidst the ruin and refuge of Tyre, cared for by a Roman officer whose kindness belies the harshness of their world. Together they weave hopes and messages across a land scarred by conflict, seeking to bridge the shadows of past horrors and uncertain fates with faith and friendship.

Kidnapped Chapter 3 - I Make Acquaintance of My Uncle

In which a young man, newly acquainted with the sombre presence of his uncle Ebenezer, is admitted into a bleak and ancient house where uneasy hospitality and cautious conversation unfold over bowls of humble porridge. Despite the cold and suspicion that initially cloud their meeting, there stirs a tentative understanding, as the uncle, gruff yet bound by blood, proposes a pause for consideration and a hope of mutual accord.

Pearl-Maiden Chapter 18 - The Death-Struggle Of Israel

In which the sombre veil of mist conceals the grievous plight of Miriam as she struggles against harsh bonds amidst the fiery ruin and bitter last stand of Jerusalem’s defenders, watching the Temple’s majestic destruction and feeling the silent withdrawal of divine favour. In this dreary hour, Roman soldiers capture the faint and forsaken maiden, tenderly sparing her amidst the desolation, while their general, Titus, with stern command, decrees her preservation as a symbol in his impending triumph.