Page:Traditions of Palestine (microform) (IA traditionsofpale00martrich).pdf/144

 As the Galileans drew nigh from the northward, a company came forth from the gate of Ephraim, as if to meet them; but when the musicians who led the march of the strangers poured a louder strain of greeting, they who issued from the gate saluted them gravely and passed on.

The Galileans ceased their music and stood still, marvelling that men should on this day go out as way-farers, for such they seemed. The men were shod us for a journey, and their garments were girded around them. The women and their children rode on asses, and behind were laden beasts. When some inquired wherefore they left the city before the feast was begun, they pointed towards the north-west. Somewhat was seen on the horizon, glittering in the morning sun. The men of the city were in doubt what it might be; but the Christians knew that it was the helmets and spears of the Roman army: and therefore they departed.

When they were a few furlongs from the gate, they turned to look once more on Zion. She was fair as a bride waiting for the marriage. The temple was as a mountain of snow