Page:Ben-Hur a tale of the Christ.djvu/490

Rh of his country, influences more direct—that of Iras, for example—had made him in the broadest worldly sense ambitious; and as he had given the passion place, allowing it to become a rule, and finally an imperious governor, the resolves and impulses of former days faded imperceptibly out of being, and at last almost out of recollection. It is at best so easy to forget our youth; in his case it was but natural that his own sufferings and the mystery darkening the fate of his family should move him less and less as, in hope at least, he approached nearer and nearer the goals which occupied all his visions. Only let us not judge him too harshly.

He paused in surprise at seeing Esther a woman now, and so beautiful; and as he stood looking at her a still voice reminded him of broken vows and duties undone: almost his old self returned.

For an instant he was startled; but recovering, he went to Esther, and said, &quot;Peace to thee, sweet Esther—peace; and thou, Simonides&quot;—he looked to the merchant as he spoke—&quot;the blessing of the Lord be thine, if only because thou hast been a good father to the fatherless.&quot;

Esther heard him with downcast face; Simonides answered,

&quot;I repeat the welcome of the good Balthasar, son of Hur—welcome to thy father’s house; and sit, and tell us of thy travels, and of thy work, and of the wonderful Nazarene—who he is, and what. If thou art not at ease here, who shall be? Sit, I pray—there, between us, that we may all hear.&quot;

Esther stepped out quickly and brought a covered stool, and set it for him.

&quot;Thanks,&quot; he said to her, gratefully.

When seated, after some other conversation, he addressed himself to the men.

&quot;I have come to tell you of the Nazarene.&quot;

The two became instantly attentive.

&quot;For many days now I have followed him with such watchfulness as one may give another upon whom he is waiting so anxiously. I have seen him under all circumstances said to be trials and tests of men; and while I am