Page:Traditions of Palestine (microform) (IA traditionsofpale00martrich).pdf/32

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24
THE HOPE OF THE HEBREW.

could already be discerned. The three companions looked at each other, while joy flashed from their eyes, and they immediately quickened their pace, regardless of the increasing heat. As soon as they arrived within hearing of some who were hastening in the same direction with themselves, they rejoiced at the sound of eager voices exclaiming, “The Teacher,” “The Prophet,” “Jesus, the son of David.” From that moment Sadoc heard and saw nothing of what passed around him. His whole soul was in his eyes, and they were fixed on the outlines of the Mount, where the objects became every moment more distinct. On the masses of rock were people seated. Groups stood beneath the trees. A multitude filled a shaded recess. Every moment the numbers were increased. Hundreds poured through every passage of the rocks. Thousands toiled up the steep pathway. Sadoc listened for voices of praise, for his own heart longed to break forth into singing: but no sound was heard but the rushing of busy feet over the plain. He looked yet again, he shaded his eyes with his hand, that he might see more distinctly, and he beheld, at length,