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[161]
HEROD'S other affairs were now very prosperous, and he was not to
be easily assaulted on any side. Yet did there come upon him a danger that
would hazard his entire dominions, after Antony had been beaten at the
battle of Actium by Caesar [Octarian]; for at that time both Herod's enemies
and friends despaired of his affairs, for it was not probable that he would
remain without punishment, who had showed so much friendship for Antony.
So it happened that his friends despaired, and had no hopes of his escape;
but for his enemies, they all outwardly appeared to be troubled at his
case, but were privately very glad of it, as hoping to obtain a change
for the better. As for Herod himself he saw that there was no one of royal
dignity left but Hyrcanus, and therefore he thought it would be for his
advantage not to suffer him to be an obstacle in his way any longer; for
that in case he himself survived, and escaped the danger he was in, he
thought it the safest way to put it out of the power of such a man to make
any attempt against him, at such junctures of affairs, as was more worthy
of the kingdom than himself; and in case he should be slain by Caesar,
his envy prompted him to desire to slay him that would otherwise be king
after him.
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