Page:The Apocryphal Acts of Paul, Peter, John, Andrew and Thomas.djvu/306



74. The wild ass, accompanied by many people, went in and said, "I say to you, the enemies of Jesus the Christ, I say to you which close the eyes not to see the light—since the worst nature cannot be changed for good—to you I say, the children of hell and destruction, (the children) of him who unceasingly does evil, who always renews his operations and that which becometh his nature, to you I say, most impudent, who shall be destroyed by yourselves—but what I should say concerning your destruction and end and what I should advise, I know not. For it is much and immense to hear it. But your trespasses are greater than the punishment which is reserved for you. But to thee, demon, and thy son, which follows thee—I say—for now I have been sent for your sakes—but why make many words about your nature and origin, which you know yourselves and are nevertheless impudent? Judas Thomas, the apostle of Jesus the Messiah, who has been sent hither out of much love and kindness, commands you, Go out in the presence of all the people here and tell me of what family you are!"

75. And immediately the woman and her daughter came forth, like dead and dishonored. And when the apostle saw them, he was sad, especially on account of the girl, and said to the demons, "Let no forgiveness and forbearance fall to your lot, for you also know no forbearance or compassion! But in the name of Jesus, leave them and go aside!" When the apostle had said this, the women fell