Page:Traditions of Palestine (microform) (IA traditionsofpale00martrich).pdf/125

 “It is not the wont of the Nazarenes to deny their faith.”

“I will prove your words. Tell me if ye have been alone in this matter?”

“Though we answer openly, we answer for ourselves alone.” And the young men avoided to follow the eye of the High Priest as he looked sternly around. He commanded any of the course of Abia who had embraced the new faith to stand forth. A great number separated themselves from the company, insomuch that the High Priest was startled. Then came forth many from every one of the twenty-four courses, and spake the name of Jesus of Nazareth.

Then the High Priest looked towards those of the Sanhedrim who stood by; and when he saw that they retreated towards the council chamber, he waved his hand and dismissed the assembly.

In the council chamber there were wrath and fear. It was plain that the penalties of sacrilege could not be enforced against the converts of the temple by reason of their numbers. They who had seduced them were therefore marked out for punishment. Among