Page:Traditions of Palestine (microform) (IA traditionsofpale00martrich).pdf/21

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THE HOPE OF THE HEBREW.
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to put forth his power, lest they should scoff at the Most High. Then they thrust him forth to the ridge of the hill, and I verily thought that his last hour was come.”

“And was his countenance calm?”

“He did not strive nor cry, but looked mournfully on the rebellious crowd. Presently he was gone, no one knew whither. I came to Capernaum, trusting to find him there, and I will not henceforth cease from following him.”

"Paltiel,” said Sadoc, turning to his friend, “in this thing hath Jehovah again testified that his ways are not as our ways. This man cometh not with power and an outstretched arm, as we supposed. He is mild and calm; and I cannot look upon him as the champion of Israel and the conqueror of our conquerors. When I have hitherto thought of the day of our deliverance, my spirit has risen while the horses and chariots of the mighty, the bands of armed men, and the tents of a host, were before me; while the trumpets sounded to the battle, and Israel was led forth by such an one as Joshua or Gideon, or as Maccabæus,—but with a brighter glory and a stronger arm.