Page:Traditions of Palestine (microform) (IA traditionsofpale00martrich).pdf/45

 spirit of God is yet newly breathed into him, and therefore do I look upon so young a child with awe.”

Sadoc silently took the child between his knees, and bowed his head unto him. The little one clasped his neck, and a light laugh rang through the court. Tears fell fast among his bright locks, as Sadoc pressed him more closely to his bosom.

“We will nurture him tenderly,” said Michal, “and when he is grown, he shall be devoted to the Lord, even as Samuel. He shall declare in the temple what Jehovah hath done for him. He was in a deeper sleep than Samuel ever slept, when the Lord spake and his young servant heard.”

“Not only in the temple shall he declare it,” replied Sadoc, “but wherever the Prophet shall be known. O, tell me, my sister, tell me if he hath been here.”

“He hath not, Sadoc. This child, the first-born of Rachel, had languished many days, and on the Sabbath before the last, we hoped no more that he could live. His limbs, which now embrace thee, were stretched out powerless; his lips, which now press thine, were