Page:Traditions of Palestine (microform) (IA traditionsofpale00martrich).pdf/40

 will know whether he be the Messiah indeed, before I go back to my father’s house.”

“Nay, but thy father’s anger is fierce against thee.”

“It will be so no more when he also shall acknowledge the Teacher,” replied Sadoc.

"Yet let his sorrow move thee, if thou fearest not his anger,” said the old man. “He weepeth for thee. Be thou his comforter.”

Sadoc looked wistfully towards the path which the Teacher had trod: but the old man continued,

“Thy sister endureth reproach for thee, and when her father’s anger is upon her, she looketh for thee and thou comest not. Yet she hath hindered me thus far from seeking thee.”

Sadoc doubted no longer, but turned his face homeward, He looked sorrowful, but the old man rejoiced. “Tarry not for me,” he cried, “My strength is not as thine. Hasten, and I will follow; but say not that I sought thee.”

It was mid-day when Sadoc reached his father’s house after a toilsome journey of many hours. He entered while the household were