Letter 5 – A Jewish Delegation to Alexandria

[Introduction] A diplomatic and geographical detour to Alexandria, where a delegation comes to plead its cause and defend its rights before the Roman administration. • [Verse 1] By the shore of the sea, far from the clay hills, A delegation claims an asylum that stills. Their voices rise up to defend what is right, Facing Greek power and old laws in the fight. • [Chorus] Delegation marching toward the high instance, Demanding sweet justice in the name of the alliance. On the other side of the great water's spread, Their voices ring out like a new cry ahead. • [Verse 2] I read through their petitions with utmost attention, Weighing each word of their formal convention. They ask for plain peace, and respect for their rite, Free from proud sneers and insults' heavy might. • [Chorus] Delegation marching toward the high instance, Demanding sweet justice in the name of the alliance. On the other side of the great water's spread, Their voices ring out like a new cry ahead. • [Verse 3] Alexandria murmurs through ages gone by, Diverse peoples gathered where the same shores lie. I must arbitrate fairly, a straight justice decree, While against narrow stone beats the wash of the sea. • [Outro] The sound of the waves fades away, replaced by the rustle of parchment.