Page:Lazarus, a tale of the world's great miracle.djvu/286



T was the day of the Paschal Feast, and all night Martha had been busy preparing with her household the lamb and other dishes for the feast, including the thin Passover cakes which it was the custom to dip into the wine, or any other beverage, and send round in the cup.

While she worked, the Nazarene, watched by Lazarus, slept or prayed. A great misgiving was in the hearts of all. Everyone who came from Jerusalem brought different news, but all based on one great fact, the wrath of the Pharisees and rulers in general, and of Caiaphas in particular, at the reception of the Messiah on His late entry into Jerusalem. It was fear, both physical and moral, that actuated Caiaphas now. As a frightened dog snaps and flies at those around him, each in turn, so Caiaphas tried to hide his own trepidation beneath a semblance of attack.

Yet these rumours filled with dismay the hearts of those who loved the Lord.

"I fear me; I fear me greatly," Lazarus said.

"He will eat the Passover at Jerusalem, according to the law of Moses, yet surely they will there surprise Him."

"How can it be," asked Martha, "that Judas, who doth follow Him day and night, doth compass