Michal, my sister!’ said Sadoc, as he advanced.
“O, my brother! is it thou?” replied Michal, while the flush of joy crimsoned her cheek. “A blessing be upon thy coming in, as there doubtless was upon thine out-going! Mine eyes rejoice to behold thee, and my heart yearneth for tidings. This hour is for thee and me. Hasten to refresh thyself and come hither.”
Sadoc cast himself down beside the fountain, and sought not yet other refreshment than his sister’s words. She prepared him for reproof from his father, and besought him to be patient. She asked him of the Teacher, and he poured out his soul to her. He answered when Michal asked of mighty works, of the sick that were healed, and of the sorrowing hearts which, by power from on high, were made to sing for joy; but there were other things in which he rejoiced yet more. He told her how the long-promised kingdom drew nigh, and how sure were its blessings and glories, though they must be won by toils and sorrows. He repeated the words of the Teacher, and
