Page:Traditions of Palestine (microform) (IA traditionsofpale00martrich).pdf/117

 to die with him, fled when danger appeared? The love which should have prevailed over the desires and fears of the spirit hath waxed cold among us. Not such was the love of Jesus. Even now, if he were here, he would look tenderly on us all; for he knoweth the heart of man, and hath compassion.”

A sob of anguish here broke in upon the discourse. Simon had withdrawn from the upper chamber, and now stood without the porch. The words of Paltiel had moved his soul.

In one of the apartments, supper was spread; and around the board were many disciples who disputed concerning what had been seen in the garden of Joseph that morning. They believed not the women, nor John, nor Simon, nor the men who had returned from Emmaus with tidings of Jesus.

These two sat apart with John and the mother of the Prophet, to whom they opened what had been told them concerning the Messiah and his kingdom. Mary listened in settled peace. Her spirit fluttered no more in grief or joy. Her countenance was wasted, but the calm light of her eye shewed that a