Page:Jesus of Nazareth the story of His life simply told (1917).djvu/355

 "Have thou nothing to do with that just Man, for I have suffered many things this day in a dream because of Him."

His Apostles were hiding; His friends in the Sanhedrin, Nicodemus, and Joseph of Arimathea, were afraid to plead His cause; His priests were clamouring for His death. One alone in the holy City was found to speak for Him—the Gentile woman, who, from her splendid apartment, was looking down upon Him with reverence and with pity, Claudia Procula, Pilate's wife.

Her words agitated her husband greatly, and confirmed him in his resolution of saving this Just One from the fury of His enemies. But what might have been done with ease two hours ago was a difficult matter now. The chief priests were steadily making way, even the few minutes' interruption caused by Procula's message had not been lost by them; and when the Governor put his question a second time, the people, whom they had worked up to a state of frenzy, were ready with their reply.

"Whom will you that I release to you," he cried, "Barabbas, or Jesus who is called Christ?"

A shout as of one voice went up: "Away with this Man and release unto us Barabbas."

Astounded and disgusted, Pilate called out: "What will you, then, that I do to the King of the Jews?"

They cried out: "Crucify Him! Crucify Him!"

"Why, what evil hath He done?" demanded the Governor. "I find no cause in Him. I will chastise Him, therefore, and let Him go."

But again rose up that howl: "Crucify Him! Crucify Him!"

Weary of the struggle, Pilate called for water and