Page:Traditions of Palestine (microform) (IA traditionsofpale00martrich).pdf/133

 tude rang through the valley, which made even Paltiel grasp his staff.

He checked himself, and beckoned to his company to follow him within the recess. It was a slope, green with the verdure of spring, and open only to the sky and to the pass by which the Nazarenes found entrance. Though so near the city, it was known to few, for there was less beauty within it than in many of the clefts of the hills which abounded there. The stars glittered in the portion of the heaven which was open to the band of worshipers, and the night raven looked down upon then as she sent forth her cry to awake the echoes. The Nazarenes spread their garments on the grass, and sat down to watch—all but one, who silently returned upon her steps when no one perceived, and fled towards Bethany.

Meantime, the multitude drew nigh the dwelling of Paltiel, no longer shouting as when they issued from the gate of the city, but rapidly, that they might seize with the greater certainty upon their victims. If aught could have calmed their rage, it would have been the repose of the place, where there was no motion