CHAPTER XV

THE MARTYRDOM OF MARINUS AT CÆSAREA

ABOUT this time, as peace was every where restored to the churches, Marinus of Cæsarea in Palestine, who was one of the army, distinguished for his military honours, and illustrious for his family and wealth, was beheaded for his confession of Christ on the following account: There is a certain honour among the Romans, called the vine, and they who obtain it are called centurions. A place becoming vacant, Marinus, by the order of succession, was called to this promotion; but when he was on the point of obtaining this, another advancing to the tribunal began to make opposition, saying, that according to the ancient institutions it was not lawful for him to share in the Roman honours, as he was a Christian, and refused to sacrifice to the emperors; and that the office devolved on himself. The judge, whose name was Achæus, roused at this, first began to ask what the opinions of Marinus were; and when he saw him constantly affirming that he was a Christian, he granted him three hours for reflection. But as soon as he came out of the pætorium, or judgment hall, Theotecnus, the bishop of the place, coming to him, drew him aside in conversation, and taking him by the hand, conducted him to the church; and having placed him within by the altar, he raised his cloak a little, and pointing to the sword that was attached to his side, at the same time presenting before him the book of the holy gospels, told him to choose either of the two according to his wish. Without hesitation he extended his hand and took the book. “Hold fast, then, hold fast to God,” said Theotecnus, “and strengthened by Him, mayest thou obtain what thou hast chosen—go in peace.” Immediately upon his return from thence, a crier began to proclaim before the prætorium, for the appointed time had already passed away; and being thus arraigned, after exhibiting a still greater ardour in his faith, he was forthwith led away as he was, and made perfect by martyrdom.