Page:Traditions of Palestine (microform) (IA traditionsofpale00martrich).pdf/132

 go, and they hastened to set forth. The mothers sought the inner chambers, and brought out their infants wrapped in their mantles, lest the dews of the night should chill their slumbers. Paltiel once more filled and blessed the wine-cup, which was emptied in silence; and they all set forth.

The evening star had risen, and shone above the mount, around which the mists had gathered, and rolled like fleecy clouds. The air was mild, and fragrant with the scent of the balsams which grew around the dwelling. The company hastened along the rugged path, the men carrying the infants for greater speed. They spoke not, but moved like the shadows of clouds on the mountain side, till they reached the opening of the recess which they sought. Then they turned to cast one look towards the city. There was a light in the air over the valley, as if a multitude of torches flared below. The stems of the willows were made distinct by passing gleams, and Kedron flashed beneath them. On the battlements of the temple were moving figures, and voices were heard in the still night air, as if men spoke thence to the crowd; and suddenly a shout from the multi-