31
others the task of preaching it. The grave hid him not; for he was seen to walk the earth, to ascend into heaven, and known to return and watch over the faithful till Judaism was overthrown. Thus the lowly and peaceful was hallowed from heaven, while the proud and warlike lived and died as other chiefs have lived [and died, save that his superior wisdom gave him greater power.
Havilah was moved while his friend spoke thus; but he gave no way to anger, and kept his sorrow to himself, only saying,
How is it then that our faith hath spread from land to land, and included many nations, while the Christians are but a handful in comparison of the Faithful? Is not the hand of God seen in this?
The hand of God ought to be seen of us in all things, replied Eber: and in this it is not difficult to discern. I believe that your faith would not have spread as it has done, unless it had contained much that the Jews and Christians believe, and therefore much that is true. It contains also many things which are pleasant to the desires and hopes of men; much that is grateful to their thoughts and sweet to their hearts, mingled with what their
