Page:Traditions of Palestine (microform) (IA traditionsofpale00martrich).pdf/93

 “Thou, thou alone, my first-born, my blessed one!” murmured Philip as he hid his face in the bosom of his child—“Thou alone fearest me not.” Thus saying, he retired again within the porch, for none might see how he wept over his child.

Then the disciples told wherefore be had returned, and all pressed forward with joy to give him welcome; but the disciples restrained them, for they knew that Philip mourned because his wife came not forth to meet him. While they yet inquired concerning her, a woman came in haste from the inner chamber, with joy in her countenance; and she declared that a daughter was born unto Philip. Then the disciples knew why the kindred were assembled, and why the wife of Philip came not out to meet him, and they told him these things with joy.

When his new-born child was placed in his bosom, and music resounded through the dwelling, and a song of rejoicing was uplifted in the court, Philip was humbled in spirit, marvelling that such an one as himself should be crowned with loving kindness and tender mercies.