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At A Roman Soldier's Professional Doubt
Over legal, judicial executions,
Rome claims sole and exclusive jurisdiction.
Even in Rome, the normal distribution
means some beheading; mostly crucifixion.
(I once beheaded two---a lovers' case:
what shock on each decapitated face.)
Those crucified put on slower displays
of Rome's boundless, adjudicating powers.
Some of them last on crosses for three days.
But this one we just finished had expired
after a lifting up of just six hours.
That is, of course, less than we desired.
Darkness, an earthquake, and the local weather
spoiled my experience here, altogether.
I have requested transfer back to Rome.
Death follows expectations, closer home.
ENVOI
Also, the comments made by Pilate's wife
were overheard, today, and shared with us.
Her bold opinions could be dangerous:
her adolescent beauty has acquired
attention from Old Man Tiberius.
Starward
