Page:Traditions of Palestine (microform) (IA traditionsofpale00martrich).pdf/29

 distance, travelling slowly as if they were wearied and in need of some place of rest. He descended and went forth to invite them to pass the night in his dwelling. They gladly followed him, and received the greetings of his mother with respect, as she offered her house for their home as long as they chose to abide. Before the first rites of hospitality were paid, before their feet were washed, and the couches placed for the evening repast, the eager Sadoc had spoken on the subject nearest his heart, and heard with astonishment that no tidings of the excitement which prevailed elsewhere had yet reached this retired abode. So many inquiries were to be answered, so many details of surpassing interest were to be given, that it was late before the guests received the blessing of the night from their hostess: and even then, Sadoc did not retire immediately to his couch. He entered the Alijah, and in that still oratory, lighted only by the pale stars, and visited only by the night breeze, he poured out the thanksgivings with which his soul overflowed, and strove, by the awful offices of devotion, to lay to rest the stirring thoughts which had become too exciting for his repose.