Page:Traditions of Palestine (microform) (IA traditionsofpale00martrich).pdf/74

 “Who would fear to die in the cause of Jehovah?” exclaimed Paltiel, proudly raising himself, and looking round on his companions. “Life is sweet, and it is a pleasant thing for the eyes to behold the sun; but the favour of God is sweeter than life, and to gaze on his glory is better than to stand in the sunshine of noon. They are blessed who witness the prosperity of Jerusalem, the peace of her dwellings, and the pomp of her palaces; but he is also blessed who suffereth to redeem her. Jesus mourneth not for himself, and I mourn not for him, but for his followers, and yet more for such as despise and reject him.”

“Thy words are lofty, Paltiel,” said Ozias; “is thy courage also high? Couldst thou also die for the people?”

“Jehovah hath no such honour for one like me,” replied Paltiel, as he gazed towards the pinnacles of the temple. “There he abideth; let his voice he heard calling me from his holy place, and I will answer. On such as I, his spirit is not poured forth, else would I uplift my voice as the holy men of old, and none should make me afraid. It cannot be that one like myself should be needed to witness unto