Page:Traditions of Palestine (microform) (IA traditionsofpale00martrich).pdf/54

 of worship on the sons and daughters of Israel? Nay, rather he scorns our holy traditions.”

“He hath imposed no forms, my father, but he giveth precepts. He commandeth to love, to make peace, to worship in pureness of heart, in solitude rather than before a multitude. He biddeth us to seek holiness rather than riches and honour, and saith that to repent is better than sacrifice.”

“All these things,” replied Imri, “are such as the meanest of the earth may understand and do. The Gentiles themselves might be followers of thy Prophet thus far. He careth not for the honour of our nation if these be the precepts he gives. When he shall tell thee to worship more strictly, when he shall multiply thy fasts, and bid thee pray oftener, and call on thee for more gifts and sacrifices, come unto me again and I will hear thee. But not until then.”

Imri tuned away in wrath. Sadoc’s bosom also swelled with high thoughts; but remembering the meekness of the Teacher, he spake not again, but sat down to meditate.

After a while, he saw that Imri gazed into the street below. Sadoc also looked, and