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Z.i • t

1 1

"The way became difficult ami stony, so that Titus was kept busy picl;ins the
best places for tlie mule."— Pajfe 91.

TITUS:

A CO.WRADE OF THE CROSS.

Florence Morse Kingsley.

Mitliur of "Stephen: A S./dicr of tlic Cross.'

TORONTO :

WILLIAM BRIGGS

MOMRF.AL : C. W. COA TtS.

HALIFAX : S. F. IIUtSTIS.

Kif.
* % ^,

Canadian Edition.

American CopyM;..,,,, iB.,4 „j

To My Mother,

Save for whose encouragement the book would never

have been written, I inscribe "TiTUS,"

v.'ith grateful affection.

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

CHAPTER I.

BOUT seventeen years before this story
begins there was mourninnr in one of the
most beautiful of the homes of Jerusa-
le In the court of the household the
servants were gathered about the great
central fountain, some weeping loudly,
some talking and gesticulating.

"We shall never, never see him
again," said an elderly woman, wringing
her hands.

"He was such a darling— so swe^!" sobbed another,
"and so beautiful, with his lovely eyes, and his cheeks red
as a pomegranate."

"Oh, my David, my David!" wailed a fourth, sitting flat
upon the ground, with her head upon the edge of the fountain,
and her tears mingling with its waters—" who could have the'
heart to take thee from thy mother!"

"His mother will die!" said the woman who had spoken
first. <• I have it from Reba, her waiting-woman, that she hath
gone from one fainting fit into another since she was told the
child had been stolen."

"And Prisca gone too; dost think she stole the little one.?"
"Nay, woman! Prisca loved the lad as her own life; she
would never harm a hair of his head."

"I know that she loved him, but i fancy that she loved

' "4

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

n ,

Dost think the Greek carried

that berrgarly Greek better,
them both off ?"

"How could he?" broke in another. "There was no way.
had he been so minded."

" Thou knowest not everything," said an old woman, who
had not spoken before. "I have it from master's own body-
servant, Malchus, that the master caucrht the Greek talkin. to
Prisca m the gateway once, and bade him begone. The man
answered something in an unknown tongue, but with a bold
look withal; the master gave command to have him seized and
scourged, which was done forthwith. And a heavy scourging
It was too. for he was a Gentile. That was ten days since
and now Prisca and the little David have both disappeared "

Here all the women broke out afresh into loud wailincr and
lamenting. , *

in the meantime a far more painful scene was passincr in
he interior of the palace. The sunshine was filtering thro;.h
the branches of the trees, making wavering spots of brightness
on the velvet sward. Roses, lilies and oleanders glowed in
rich masses around the basins of marble fountains. Birds sinrr-
mg sweetly flitted here and there. Yet everything seemed s^d
and forsaken, for the mistress of all this beauty and splendor lay
white and grief-exhausted, on her couch in a shaded chamber
Near her, his face buried in his hands, sat her husband

"No, Anna," he groaned, "I can get no trace of him I
have sent the servants in every direction; Malchus hath
searched the city since early dawn; I myself sought all night.
Yet will I find him!" he continued fiercely, springing up and
pacing the chamber hurriedly. "It were too horrible a thina

carried

way,

TITUS: A C0.M[;ADE of the cross. H

to endure patiently. May the God of Abraham witness tint 1
will be avenired of this vvroi.ir! And yet who can be my
enemy? Who would dare to steal David, tne only son of
Caiaphas.? 'Tis some plot to make me pay moneys for his
redemption. Yet would I pay-to the whole of my for^ine
Oh, my son. my son!" And the unhappy father rent his a.r-*
ments, and lifting up his voice wept bitterly.

" Nay, my husband, do not despair," spoke the soft voice of
Anna. "There is yet hope; he hath only been gone since
yester-eve.

Yet as she spoke, the vision of her three-year-old darlincr
rose before her, and she fancied him wailing for his mother^-
perhaps sick and lonely in some dark den of the city perhaps
dead. And her courage failed her, and she too wept bitterly
smothering her sobs, woman-like, lest she add to her hus-
band's anguish.

And so the hours, heavy with sorrow, lengthened into days-
and no tidings of the lost child. The days became weekv'
st.ll no word of hope. So passed away months; and the
months, leaden-footed, became in their turn years. The wail-
ing m the servants' quarters ceased; the symbols of mournin-r
were la.d aside; and nothing but the anguished look in the
eyes o the mother told of the hidden sorrow-a sorrow more
bitter than death.

No more children came to fill the house with play and
laughter; and while the gentle Anna became sad indeed, and
silent Caiaphas, the master, gr.w by degrees gloomy, taciturn
and of a temper not to be trifled with. Over the home once
so gay and happy, lay a pall which could never be lifted

TITUS : A CO.MRADE OF THE CROSS.

Once at feast time, Anna fancied that she caught a glimpse
of the missing Prisca. The woman held by the hand a boy of
about ten years, dark-eyed, dark-haired, and with the colo'r of
a ripe pomegranate in his lips and cheeks. But before she
could call a servant, the two had disappeared in the crowd,
and could never be found, though Jerusalem was searched
from wall to wall; and outside the walls also, among the pil-
grims encamped there.

"Perhaps after all u vas not Prisca," said Anna sadly to
Caiaphas, as they sat in the garden at twilight. "I did not
see her face, by reason of her veil. But the boy! Oh, my
husband, he was so beautiful! And bursting into tears,' she
hid her face on his arm.

"Nay, my brave wife, weep not. Am I not better to thee
than many sons?" And so he strove to comfort her sore
heart.

And again the empty years rolled on.

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS

•i?

CHAPTER 11.

^AY was closing; and night, doubly
welcome in an almost tropical
climate, was close at hand. Over
the waters of the lake glowed a
thousand tender colors, con-
stantly shifting and melting
the one into the other— gold,
crimson, rose, and rare purples
in the sky above, and again
in the glassy water beneath,
which reflected also the dis-
tant shores embowered in

. ■• trees; while here and there the

early l.ghts m a white-walled villa, or distant village, twinkled
starhke through the dark masses of foliage.

The surface of the water was alive ''with craft of various
kinds; some, standing out at a distance from the land with
wh. e and parti-colored sails, seemed endeavoring to catch the
light breeze, which as yet scarcely ruffled the surface of the
water; others, propelled by the oar, skimmed lightly about
nearer the land. One standing on the shore could catch
melodious snatches of song floating over the water, and the
calls of the fishermen as they prepared to set forth for their
nights work. In truth it was a fair spot, this lake of Gen-

nesaret. And a fair city was Capernaum

Standing as it did

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROCS.

Ill

near the head of this miniature sea, it carried on a busy trade
with Its neighbors. Ample warehouses, with wharves and
clustered shipping, occupied the waterfront; while behind lay
the town with its great synagogue, built of white and rose-
tmted marble, its public buildings, squares and streets, stretch-
ing up to the base of a high range of mountainous hills, which
swept like an amphitheatre about the lake.

On this particular evening a solitary fisherman was
engaged in fastening his craft to the bank of a little creek
which emptied into '

the lake about half
a mile from the city.
The scene was a
familiar one to him,
and even the flash-
ing glories of the '
sunset, now dying
into a dim twilight,
scarcely awakened
more than an un-
defined sense of
happiness. He was
thinking chiefly of
the fact that he was

hungry. Stooping, he hastily shook the rude fastening to see
that It was secure, then took from the bottom of the boat
his net, and a number of fine fish, which he proceeded to
string upon a twig plucked from a convenient tree.

As he walked quickly away, carrying his net over his

■^

TITUS: A COAIRADE OF THE CROSS. 15

Shoulder, the fish swinffing from his hand, he seemed rather
. more than a boy-a vvell-^rrown lad of perhaps nineteen years
well built, stronjr and muscular. A skin browned by exposure'
black eyes under level black brows, jetty hair sli^rhtly curlin<r'
a nose curved like the beak of an eagle, and well-cut lij^'
made up a countenance of unusual strength and beauty He
was clothed in a single sleeveless garment of coarse white
Imen reaching to the knee; this was bound about at the waist
with a girdle of some scarlet stuff, and from the girdle depended
a primitive kind of pouch or wallet.

Ten minutes of brisk walking brought the lad to the outer
wall of the city, where he found the watchman about to close
the gates for the night. As he passed hurriedly through, one of
the men hailed him:

" Ho, lad! Thou wert like to pass thy night outside the
walls.

" And that were no matter," shouted the boy in return.

Many a night have I passed on the lake, as thou knowesf

and mayhap I know another way to get in save through thy

gate here." And he darted laughing away, as one of the men

made a motion as though to seize him.

" Dost know the lad?" said one of the men to his comrade,
who had joined in the boy's laugh with a low chuckle.

" Yes, I know him. His name is Titus-a bold fellow He
dwells near to the fish market with his father Dumachus.
They call themselves fishers-" Here the man stopped and
shrugged his shoulders.

" What meanest thou.?" said the other idly.

But the gate-keeper was fastening the huge locks-with

TITUS : A COAIRADE OF THE CROSS.

i
III

much puffuifr and straininjr, and many a smothered groan-
and did not hear him; at least he did not answer; and his
companion presently for^mt that he had asked the question
Meanwhile the lad was threadinjr his way throu^rh 'the

narrow streets, quite
dark now by reason of
the lofty walls on either
^ side. Occasionally he
would come out into a
:■ paved square or open

space, where numerous |
small booths, lighted by ."
flaming torches, pro-
claimed a market-place.
At one of these booths
he paused a moment and The lad at the gate.

looked at its wares, which were displayed in flat baskets-
there were cakes made with honey, dried f,gs and dates
small cheeses of goat's-milk, and various sweetmeats, toaethe^
w.th nuts and fresh fruits of many kinds. After a moment's

■J
t

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

deliberation, he selected some delicate little cakes, which—
wrapped in fresh ureen leaves by the obli-ring huckster-
he bestowed in his wallet, payinjr for his purchase with a
copper coin taken from a corner of the same receptacle. Then
turnin^r and makin^r hjs way throu^rh the crowd which nearly
filled the square, he plunired into a labyrinth of streets leadin^r
apparently into the meaner portion of the city, for the open
spaces became smaller and less frequent, and the walls lower
and more closely crowded together. Finally pausing before
what dimly appeared as a doorway in the rough wall, he
entered, and carefully closed the door behind him.

" is that you, mother?" asked a feeble voice from the gloom
within.

" No, Stephen boy; it is I. Where is the mother.?"
'• Nay . know not," answered the voice querulously. " She
went to the fountain for water, a long time ago, it seemeth to
me, and I am parched with thirst and so hungry! Canst thou
bring me out into the court, Titus?"

" Aye, lad, that can I, and give thee to drink also." And
laying his fish and nets upon the ground, he crossed the court
now plainly revealed by the moonlight which flooded the
heavens.

At one side of the little yard appeared a dark opening from
which was looped back a leathern curtain. Stooping a little
Titus entered, and immediately came out again bearin^r in his
arms a figure, which he tenderly deposited' on a pile of nets.

" There, Stephen hoy, see the moon, how bright it is; and
here is water, albeit not so fresh and cool as the mother will
fetch thee presently." And Titus poured out. from a small

TITUS : A COMIMDE OF THE CROSS.

Skin bottle or {rm^let, water into a cup, which he handed to
the lad on the nets.

The latter seemed scarcely more than a child, so small and
shrunken was his finrure; and as he moved painfully to take the
water, it appeared that he was cruelly deformed and misshapen
But his face, as the bri.irht moonlight fell upon it. was, despite
Its pallor and emaciation, beautiful, for the features were deli-
cately shapen, while the li,irht golden hair, fine and curling
made an aureole about the brow, from beneath which shone
wonderful dark eyes.

" Truly the water hath a foul taste, but it hath wet my
tongue and moistened my throat, and that is a blessing. I am
glad that thou art come, Titus, for now I can go upon the roof
This day hath been a heavy one, and my back hath hurt me
cruelly."

While the sick boy was speaking in his weak, fretful voice
Titus had been busily engaged in building a small fire; and
presently the fish hanging from a stick began to splutter in the
heat, while an appetizing odor stole out upon the air

"Cheer up, Stephen lad!" Titus was saying, as he made
his preparations for the simple meal. "I have a fine treat for
thee in my wallet here."

Stephen's eyes brightened, as he lay quietly watching the
flickering flames. "Is it something that I can give to the
baby.?" he asked presently.

" It will suit the baby rarely," said Titus, laughing. " I had
him in mind when I picked out this particular dainty at the
good Justin's stall. But thou must not give it all to the baby
thou must thyself eat." '

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE Cr?OSS.

le handed to

so small and
/ to take the
i misshapen,
was, despite
IS were deli-
ind curlinjT,
fhich shone

ith wet my
isinjT. I am
'on the roof,
ith hurt m.e

retful voice,

ill fire; and

utter in the

s he made

ne treat for

itchintT the
ive to the

?. " I had

nty at the

the baby;

■ 3
^

"Yes, I will eat," replied Stephen contentedly. "But,
Titus, 1 love to see the little one when I give him a cake. He
is sweeter than the sweetest of Justin's dainties. Hark! I
think I hear him now!" And raising himself on one elbow,
the lad listened intently.

Titus likewise paused a moment in his culinary operations,
and the sound of a baby's gurglincr laughter, and sweet broken
talk, floated down from a neighboring housetop.

" Ah, the young rascal!" said Titus. " He waxeth a bold
fellow."

" Yes, truly," said Stephen eagerly. " Last night he clam-
bered over the parapet between our two roofs, and came run-
ning quite alone to me. He loves me," he added in a tone
expressive of deep conviction.

" He loves sweets, that is certain," answered Titus, laucrh-
mg. " But here is the mother at last," he added, looldng
toward the doorway.

A tall figure, heavily draped, and bearing on her head a
water-pot, at this moment entered the courtyard.

"Where hast thou been, mother.?" demanded Stephen
" Thou didst leave me at sunset, and I had been dead of thirst
by this time, but for my Titus, who gave me a sorry draught
indeed-but better than none at all-from the gurglet "

The woman let down the jar from off her head, and hastily
poured a cup of water for the child, saying in a soothing tone
as she djd so:

"Nay, thou shouldst not chide thy mother, child- 'tis
unseemly. But the time at the fountain did pass swiftly
enough, by reason of the marvelous things which I heard

TITUS: A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

fhere was a «reat crowd there, and I had to wait my turn
The ffood Jocimda, our neijrhhor, had the tale from her hus-
band; he heard it in the market-place. All Capernaum is
rmjrjny with the wonder of—"

" Let us have supper first," interrupted Titus, " for the child
IS famt with huntrer, and I am well-nijrh starvin^r. We will
have that marvelous tale of thine later."

So sayintr, he took the fish from the fire, while Prisca-for
such was the woman's name-hastened to hrinir the thin cakes
of bread, which served the treble use of dishes, napkins and
food. For tearin^r the tou,trh, thin cake into lar^re rra<rments
she .crave to each a liberal portion, while Titus broke Ip and
distributed the broiled fish in the same way. Laying the f.sh
on the piece of bread, each of the humble party proceeded to
break and eat alternately from the f.sh and the bread, tinishinrr
by wipmrr their finders upon the bread, and tossinir the fra<r-
ments to the do-, which made short work of the clearinjf up
Titus ate heartily, with appetite sharpened by youth a- '
hnrr abstinence, finishinor his meal with a draught of water
from the jar which stood close at hand.

"Now, Stephen lad." he exxlaimed, " I feel like a new man
Would that thou couldst eat more than a bird; but thou shalt
have the cakes now."

"Nay, Titus, carry me up first. 1 will have n-y r kes on
the roof."

" Wait, lad, tiil I take up thy bed; thou'lt sleep better up
there m the cool air." Saying which, Titus disappeared acrain
uito the dark interior of the house, emerging presently th'ere-
■oni, bearing on his shoulder a small roll.

•i

my turn.

her Inis-

rnaum is

the chilJ
We will

"isca— for
!iin cakes
l<ins an J
;i<rments,
up and
: the fish
eecled to
rinishin;:r

he fra<r-
iringr up.
uth a:-.,:
;f water

?w man.

ou slialt

:''kes en

.etter up
'd a train
y there-

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS. 21

'M will fetch thee when I have spread down thy ru. " he
ajd as he rap.dly ascended a ,ude ladder-liKe stairwav i'hich
led from the courtyard up the outside of the house to he r f

the hll "''t : "'"^' ^"^■"^' "^'^^^""^' ^-y/. -^^ "f^int

t^^T'^'' ''''''''' '"" ^'^^' Pil-.f nets, on Which
he .till lay, bore him steadily up the stairs onto the flat top of

iT^riffl

mwm:mmm

■"^'5^^i^^'"

-=*!<-.

4 V ■•■'"•»■ .

/ Of
"Here he is!"

quench A light breeze from the lake blew gently over the

cty. Beh,„d . ,.ed up the dark masses „, the hill'. "'

Ah, my T.tus!" sighed the boy, " I could not live were it

• :*<:

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

not for the nights. I loathe the days, down there behind that
hateful curtain, with nothing to do, and often no one to talk
to. And when father is here — " The boy stopped and shud-
dered slightly. Then another thought struck him. Raising
himself on one elbow, he called in a gentle voice, " Gogo,
here's Stephen! Gogo!"

A little gurgle of delighted laughter, and a woman's voice
from the adjoining roof said, —

"Here he is!" lifting, as she spoke, over the low parapet
which divided the two buildings, a small naked figure, which
toddled unsteadily on its tiny dimpled feet, to the spot where
Stephen was lying, watching his approach with delighted
smiles.

" See, Titus, how well he walks! The darling! Come
here to Stephen, Gogo; i have some cakes for thee."

At this magic word, the baby broke into a staggering run,
which would have ended disastrously had not Titus, who was
watching the scene, caught him up and conveyed him with a
single stride to the would-be haven. There he nestled down
beside Stephen with cooing, unintelligible words, which seemed
to afford the lad the greatest satisfaction.

" The little beggar!" said Titus. " He is thinking of cakes."

Opening his wallet he produced the dainties in question,
somewhat damaged by the heat, it is true, but received with
tokens of a lively joy by the two on the rug.

" Is thy mother with thee.?" again spoke the woman from
the adjoining roof.

"Not yet, good neighbor," said Titus. " But she will come
soon, when she hath put things to rights below."

behind that

one to talk

d and shud-

m. Raising

ice, " Gogo,

man's voice

low parapet

gure, which

spot where

h delighted

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS. 23

" Good-evening to thee, neighbor," she said, snyin. the
f^ureof the other won.an. ''Come over and Iwi ' ft, L
the tale wh.ch I heard at the fountain."

"Meanest thou of the wonder-workin<r stranger who h.th
come to our city.. , too have heard of hi^," ^p,;" tl ^ot^r
steppmg over the low boundary between the roofs! '

1 hen the two, seating themselves with their backs against
the parapet, prepared for a comfortable gossip. ^

ing! Come

jgermg run,
is, who was
him with a
sstied down
hich seemed

g of cakes."
in question,
ceived with

voman from

le will come

'r'

'In

TITUS: A COAlh'ADE OF THE CROSS.

I m

I .1
I

CHAPTER III.

HEN I went to the fountain to-nijiht
at sunset to fetch water," befran
Prisca, " many were there before
me, and 1 was forced to wait; so
I sat me down on one of the stone
benches to rest; for in truth the
heat to-day hath been burdensome.
Then said one of the women, ' And
what sayest thou, fjood Prisca, to
these marvels?' 'What marvels?' I
answered, for I had heard nothinn^ of
note. 'Concernin^T the man from
Judea,' she answered. ' Hast thou not heard ? Thou art a
keeper at home and therefore to be praised ; but know that a
great worker of miracles, the like of which hath nev^r before
been heard of since the days of the gods on Parnassus — or, as
the Jewish women say, since the days of their Moses, who
brou,:,^ht them out of the land of Egypt.' "

" What is the nation of the man?" interrupted the other
woman.

" Said 1 not that he was a Jew?" answered Prisca.
"Nay, nay," replied the other; "but that he came from
Judea."

"Well, now that 1 bethink me," said Prisca, "Jocunda said
that he had always lived in Nazareth near by; but 1 had Judea

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

tain to-ninjht
iter," befran
there before

to wait; so
of tlie stone
in truth the
Mirdensome.
omen, ' And
.1 Prisca, to

marvels?' I
i nothinjT of

man from
Thou art a
know that a
levvr before
ssus — or, as
Moses, who

?d the other

:a.
came from

ocunda said
1 had Judea

in my mind, because he hath just come from there, and at Jeru-
salem hath worked many wonuers of late."

"What wonders worked he in Jerusalem, mother.?" asked
Stephen, who had hitherto been too much occupied with the
fascinating Gogo to pay much attention to the conversation of
the women.

" Great miracles of healing wrought he," replied his mother.
" They do say that he hath opened the eyes of the blind, healed
sick folk of all manner of evil diseases, and even cured cripples
like to thee, my poor Stephen!"

" Stephen clutched the baby, who lay half asleep in his arms,
close in his excitement; but he only said:

"Go on, mother; tell it all."

"Now, mother, believest thou this idle talk.? Thou art for-
ever hearing of wonders from the gossips at the fountain," said
Titus, who had observed Stephen's suppressed excitement, and
guessed its cause.

"'Tis not idle talk," said Prisca indignantly. " Knowest
thou the worshipful Asa, who lives in the great house near to
the lake.?"

"Yes," said Titus briefly; "he serves Herod Antipas."
"Well," went on Prsica, "know, then, that his only son lay
grievously ill of the fever; all the doctors had given him up to
die, and his mother and father were well-nigh distracted with
grief. His father had heard these idle tales, as thou callest
them, and he believed them; insomuch that he set forth him-
self to see Jesus-for so is the Nazarene called-and meeting
him at Cana, he besought him for his son. The Nazarene told
him to depart in peace, that hi. son would live. And, lo! as he

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

■M

returned, he met servants coming to meet him, who told him
that the lad was recovering, and that he began to mend at the
very hour when the Healer promised it to his father."

" 'Tis true," said the other woman. " For one of the ser-
vants who went to meet the father is of kin to my husband;
and we had the tale from him."

"Weil, then," said Titus stubbornly, "'tis likely that he
would have recovered anyway. Thou knowest that not ail die
who have fever. 1 had it myself, and lived."

"Nay, lad," replied the woman, who was called Adah; " but
this young man could not have lived; he had the black spots
on his body, wnich come only when death is certain. Our
kinsman helped care for him; he saw it with his own eyes.
And at an hour when all thought him breathing his last, he
suddenly opened his eyes and asked for water; and when he
had drunken deeply of it, he turned and slept— slept like my
baby here— and wakened wholly restored. 'Tis a true miracle."

" It hath a wonderful sound," said Titus. " What else hath
he done?"

" There was a tale from Cana last year, which my husbano
heard in the market-place, but I know not whether it be true,"
said Adah cautiously. "But 'tis reported that at a wedding
party there, of one of his own kinsfolk, the wine ran short;
and when his mother spoke to him of it, he caused them to fill
many great water-pots with water, and at a word changed the
water into the best wine. The man who told my husband said
that he knew the people, and that they gave him a gurglet of
the wine. As I say, I know not whether this tale be true; but
about the son of Asa, I do know."

who told him

) mend at the

ler."

e of the ser-

my husband;

kely that he
lat not all die

] Adah; "but
; black spots
:ertain. Our
is own eyes.
y his last, he
ind when he
lept like my
rue miracle."
hat else hath

my husbano
r it be true,"
t a wedding
e ran short;
1 them to fill
changed the
lusband said
a gurglet of
be true; but

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

" How worketh he the cures?" asked Stephen.

"Nay, I know not; 'tis magic," replied the woman. "They
say that he teacheth strange things also. 'Tis whispered among
the Jews that he is one of their great prophets come to life
again."

" Is he here now, in this city?" asked Stephen, his voice
trembling slightly.

" I know not," answered his mother. "But the women at
the fountain said that he was coming."

"Do you suppose, mother," said t'he boy in a low, faltering
voice, " that if he comes, he could heal me?"

"Nay, lad. think not of it; 'twill only bring thee fresh
misery," broke in Titus harshly. "If these tales be true, 'tis
likely that he would heal only the rich and the great, 'like
young Judah, Asa's son; or at any rate, being a Jew, he would
only despise heathen Greeks, like us. All the Jews hate us "
he continued, grinding his teeth. " One spat on me yesterda'y
when 1 drew my net too near him in landing. I could have
killed him ! Aye, and 1 will kill him, if he dares to do it
again."

" 1 hate the Jews, too!" observed Adah. " But 'tis certain
that this Jew doth not mind the rich only, for of the cures at
Jerusalem they say that the greater part were of mere be^rcrars-
and thou knowest many of the beggars of Jerusalem" are
foreign-born."

"When he comes, if he doth come, my Stephen, I will see
him for thee. There is nothing I would not do, to see thee well
and strong, my son," exclaimed Prisca with a passionate sob.

" Hark!" exclaimed Titus. " 1 hear some one coming!"

TITUS

A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

All were silent for a moment, and the sound of harsh voices
and loud laughter was heard m the street below. Then the
door of the little courtyard was th wn wide open, and ten or a
dozen men entered the enclosure.

" 'Tis Dumachus!"said Titus briefly.

" I must go home," said Adah, rising hastily; and catching
up her sleeping babe from his snug resting-place on Stephen'^s
arm, she wrapped him in a fold of her ample garment, and step-
ping over the parapet, was quickly lost to view.

"Ho, Prisca, woman! Where art thou.?" called one of the
men from the court.

" I am here, my husband," meekly answered Prisca, begin-
ning to descend the stairway as she spoke.

" Come along then. Get us food and drink quickly; we are
famished and not disposed to wait patiently," answered the
man roughly.

" Keep thou quiet," whispered Titus to Stephen, who had
shrunk into a frightened heap on his bed at the first sound of
the man's voice, " and I will go and help the mother. Nay,"—
as the boy held a fold of his garment in a nervous grasp—'' he
shall not touch thee. They will eat and drink, then sleep, or go
away again for a fresh carouse in the town. Let me go, lad."

Then he too hurried down into the yard below, leaving the
trembling Stephen alone.

" So thou'rt here, boy.?" said Dumachus, as he spied Titus
on the stair. "Hurry thy stupid feet, and fetch us some
wine quickly!"

Titus obeyed, bringing a skin of wine and filling the cups
which the men held out.

;6(f?

Titus : a comrade of the cross.

arsh voices

Then the

nd ten or a

d catchinof

Stephen's

t, and step-

Dne of the

;ca, begin-

ly; we are
wered the

, who had
t sound of
Nay,"—
asp—" he
leep, or go
■ go, lad."
aving the

ied Titus
us some

the cups

" 'Tis a vile draught!" roared one of the men, spitting on the
ground.

" Thou hast the flavor of the wine-skin we took yesterday
fiom that portly merchant in Samaria still lurking in thy gul-
let," said another, chuckling.

" A pretty fellow he was; and how lustily he roared for
help, when we overhauled his belongings!"

"He'll make no more disturbance in those parts, nor else-
where, I'll warrant!" growled another.

" Aye, we quieted him, as we have many a better one,"
said the man Dumachus, with a great laugh. "Titus, lad,
thou didst miss some rare sport, when thou didst choose to
stay at home this time."

" Nay, 1 did not choose!" answered Titus hotly. " 1 was on
the lake fishing, at thy command; when 1 came back, thou
hadst gone, I knew not where."

"'Tis true, boy," answered Dumachus good-humoredly.
"We gave thee the slip; we had business on hand that thou
Shalt know anon. Thou'rt quite a lad, and shalt have thy fill
of booty before long."

" 1 care not for the booty," said Titus, his great black eyes
flashing fiercely, " but 1 love the fighting, especially when we
fight the Jews."

This speech was received with a great burst of laughter
from all the men,

"Thou hast a rare pupil in that boy," said one of them,
nudging Dumachus.

At this juncture, Prisca interrupted the conversation with
the announcement that supper was ready. Immediately all

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

fell to eating ravenously, ar.d little was heard in the place save
an occasional hoarse request fc: drink from one and another of
the brutal group. Presently, the edge of their hunger being
blunted, the wine began to circulate freely.

"Thou sayest that the man is here?" said one, between
great gulps from the cup.

" He is here, and multitudes followed him into the city.
To-morrow we shall have rare doings in Capernaum."

"Rare doings, indeed!" put in another. "1 had it from
Blastus himself, that at feast time, when he was in Jerusalem,
people ran out into the streets to see him pass, and followed
after him, leaving their doors wide open. No end of booty
was secured. The people seemed stark mad."

" Let them be mad," said Dumachus with a chuckle " The
madder the better for us. In truth, I saw a wonder there,
myself. A beggar who had lain for years near the corner of
the market-half blind, lame, and covered with loathly sores-
when he heard the man was coming his way, shrieked out,
Mesus, thou son of David! have mercy on me!' and the man
touched him, and, lo! the beggar sprang up and walked."

" If he doeth such wonders here," quoth another, "we shall
see the city in an uproar."

"True, my Gestas," replied Dumachus. "May Jove help
him! But what think you of the man.? Some say he is Elias,
-though, truth to tell, 1 know him not; others say one of the
prophets of the Jews. But no one knows of a certainty. He
hath followers enough to raise an insurrection already."

"Let it come, say 1 !" shouted another. "War will break
up the rule of these Romans; dost remember how they

e place save
d another of
jnger being

le, between

to the city.

m."

lad it from

. Jerusalem,

id followed

d of booty

kle. "The
nder there,
e corner of
hly sores —
rieked out,
id the man
ked."
" we shall

Jove help
he is Elias,
one of the
linty. He
ly."

will break
how they

"Prlsca broke down completely and sobbed aloud."- Page 33.

f^''

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

cautjht and crucified some of our best men last year? I hate
the law!"

These N^ords were greeted with a wild cheer, which Duma-
ch us sternly repressed.

" Fools!" he said. " If we be caucrht here, we are like rats
in a trap!"

it was now close upon midnight; and gradually the talk
died away, as one after another fell off to sleep, announcing
the fact with loud snores.

About one o'clock, Prisca crept wearily up the little stairway
to the roof, where she found Stephen wide awake, his eyes
shining like stars.

" Oh, mother," he whispered, " 1 heard what they said
about him. He is here!"

" Yes, my Stephen, he is here, and thou shalt see him."
Then bidding the child sleep, she lay down near him, and com-
posed herself also.

But long after Stephen's regular breathing told the mother
that her darling slept, she lay open-eyed, thinking of the time
when he was strong and beautiful, and of the awful blow on
his delicate spine which had made him the shapeless cripple
that he was. And in her heart she hated the brute called
Dumachus.

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

It i

CHAPTER IV.

||||!il, *"E "ext morning Stephen awoUe to

^rl ^'"^ himself in the room behind the

'■^'' r hated leathern curtain. He had slept

^' heavily and late; and as he rubbed

"" his eyes sleepily, and looked about him

in the semi-darkness, he became aware

that he was alone.

" Father and the men are fifone, and I am ,?lad," he said to

himself. " Titus is fishing-at least, I hope he is-and mother

if- at the fountain."

The room in which he lay was very much like those of the
humbler sort in the East to-day. It was, in fact, the house-
there being only the one apartment. The walls of rough
stone, plastered with clay, were windowless, and over the one
door hung the aforementioned flap of leather. This was torn
in several places, and admitted here and there two or three
dazzling sunbeams, which afforded Stephen some faint satis-
faction, for by means of them he could guess a little at the
time, which at best dragged heavily enough. When the yel-
low shafts of light rested on the wall opposite the door, light-
ing up the shapeless, smoke-blackened wine-skins which huna
there, then it was three hours before noon. As the sun
climbed higher in the heavens, the sunbeams descended from
the wall and lay upon the floor— yellow pools of light, and
cheerful to behold, though they rested upon a wretched floor

TITUS : A CO.MRAOE OF THE CROSS.

len awoke to
m behind the
He had slept
IS he rubbed
ed about him
ecame aware

I," he said to
-and mother

those of the
the house —
Is of rough
)ver the one
his vvas torn
wo or three

faint satis-
little at the
nen the yei-
! door, light-
which hung
\s the sun
ended from

light, and
etched floor

of dried mud. When they disappeared towards noon, Stephen
felt a daily sense of loss, which nevertheless always gave way
to a lively satisfaction, when he reflected that presently night
would come. Night brought Titus, and the long, cool hours
on the house-top, and best of all an hour of play with Gogo.

He fell to thinking of Gogo now, as he lay idly watching
the motes which dar.ced in the yellow shaft of sunlight. How
smooth and dimpled his little hands were— like rose-leaves,
Stephen thought; how straight and strong and rounded his
little limbs. And then his beautiful eyes— golden-brown,
with such long, curling lashes, and the rings of golden hair,
half covering the tiny pink ears. And was not his voice
sweeter than any bird's, and his teeth like little pearls!

" Nay," said Stephen aloud, as he finished cataloguing these
varied charms, "there is no baby in the world like Gogo!"

At this point in his meditations some one rai.^ed the leathern
flap and entered the room. It was Prisca.

" Hast thou fetched the water, mother?" said Stephen, half
raising himself.

"Nay, child, I have not been to the fountain yet." And
turning her back hastily, Prisca made a suspicious sound as if
she were choking down a sob.

"What ails thee, mother.?" queried Stephen, too much accus-
tomed to see his mother in tears to be especially alarmed.
" Hath father been beating thee again.?"

"No, no, child! Father and all the rest went away before
daybreak, and Titus with them. It is not that; but oh, how
can I tell thee!" And here Prisca broke down completely and
sobbed aloud.

:l,^T

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

"What is it? Do tell me. mother!" said Stephen now
thorou-Thly frightened. Stephen, now

" Well-1 suppose i must tell thee," said Prisca reluctantly.

to bea OuTn T " ''"' "^ '''' '°^' ^^^ ^^^ ^ ^'^
the babv A f . ""'^ ""'^ '^'^ "^^^"'"^^ ^° '^^'l "pe-

eves witrh H . ' ''' "°'"'^" ^^P* '^''^'' — ing her
eyes w.th her hands, as if to shut out some painful sight.

" Oh tell m'' r?""'' '^'P'^" '" '^ '^'^y °^ i'-P'-^tience.
Uh, tell me, is he dead?"

nis pain This mornm?, Adah told me, she wakened sud-
en y She was sleeping on .he roof and the baby with hi
by the sound of a heavy fall i„ the courtyard below- in a
moment she saw that the baby was gone, and run n.'t th
edge of. he parapet, She saw-" and again Prisca cove'red h r
yes w, h her hands. - Yes," she wen. on, in a broken voice
the little fellow had wakened up early, as all babies do, nd
hd crawled to the edge of the roof, in one place the ledV i
b ok „ away and he had fallen onto the stones below. He
fofZT^T; ""--"-e the day out. Thank the god
that! But 1 must go back and stay with her, though 'tis
little I can do to help." ^

Stephen had heard this frightful tale in silence. But now
as .s mother looked at him, she saw his face white and d awn
I cannot bear it, mother!" he gasped huskily.

Stephen r she cned, " thou'lt break my heart! Thou art mv
baby and all I have! Thou m.-st bear it, lad, for my sale "^
will not go back; I will stay with thee"

Stephen, now

a reluctantly.

hast so much
r to call me—

covering her
Lil sight,
f impatience.

e were out of
akened sud-
/ with her —
3elow; in a
nning to the

covered her
roken voice,
bies do, and
the led^e is
low. He is
nk the gods

though 'tis

• But now
and drawn.

rds. " Oh,
ou art my
ly sake. I

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS. 35

"No, no!" wailed Stephen, "go back; thou mightest do
, somethmg to ease him. Go quickly!"

Prisca hastily placed some bread and dried fruit, with a
small gurglet of water, near the lad, and went quickly awiy
saymg, as she left the room:

" I will come back soon, if there be a change."

For a few moments after she had gone, Stephen lay as if
stunned. His baby! His Gogo-crushed and bleeding-
Could he never see him again.? Oh, those little hands !-never
agam would he feel them like rose-leaves on his cheek! Those
little feet— never to walk again!

" I cannot bear it!" he cried, and again and again, " I cannot
bear it!

Presently into his brain, half-crazed with suffering, flashed
the remembrance of the Nazarene. " He is here-not far away
He could heal him. Oh, if mother would only come back!
She could find him. But she is not here! She will not come'

I could walk! 1 can
I must do somethincr

Perhaps he is dying even now! If only
crawl-a little. I will try. I must try.
to help! Oh, my Gogo! my Gogo!"

The boy had taken a desperate resolution. It was true that
he could crawl a little; but of late the exertion had caused
bidden it '^^'■'''''^'°" °^ ^'' '""'"^y' *^^t his mother had for-

Slowly he let himself down from the raised platform-which
occupied one end of the room and on which the family slept-
to the earthen floor beneath, every movement causing the most
exqu.s.te anguish in his injured back; but he persevered, and
at length reached the door. Then came the painful journey

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

m I

across the courtyard. Suppose that he coulo not open the door
that led to the street! It was :. terrible thought. Great drops
started out on the boy's forehead.

A few feet more and the door was reached. It was unlatched.
Prisca in her sorrowful haste had forgotten to close it after
her. Stephen pushed it boldly open, and in another moment
was in the street. Here he paused to reflect; at the end of the
street was a market-place.

" I must go there," he thought. " I must find him before
long, or it will be too late."

The street in which he lay was so narrow, that one stand-
ing in the middle of it, could touch the walls on either side.
There were no windows. No one was visible. Which way
was the market.? He did not know. It surely must be
toward the lake.

•' I will go this way," he said aloud, and nerving himself for
the effort, he crept painfully down the street. The stifling
yellow dust almost strangled him; the small, flinty stones cut
his limbs, and the burning sun beat down fiercely on his
uncovered head.

Presently he stopped. His heart beat thick and painfully;
black spots floated before his eyes; but he could see that the
market-place was not far off. Already he could catch the hum
of voices— or was it but the roaring in his ears? Another
effort— an agonizing one this time— and the lad found himself
at the corner of the street. He had succeeded in reaching the
market-place. There were the booths with many things—
principally fish— spread out thereon, just as he remembered it
when Titus had once carried him to see it, a long time ago.

open the door
. Great drops

was unlatched.
I close it after
other moment
the end of the

id him before

iiat one stand-

)n either side.

Which way

rely must be

ng himself for

The stifling

ity stones cut

ercely on his

md painfully;
d see that the
atch the hum
irs? Another
found himself
reaching the
any things —
emembered it
)ng time ago.

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS. 37

There were many people there, buying and selling, but no one
who ooked like the wonderful Nazarene. No one noticed the
poorl.tt le figure, lying there in the dust. One man, it is true
nearly stepped on him, as he hurried along with a huge baskei
of fish on h,s head; but he only muttered something in an
angry tone about beggar brats, and passed on

I he pam m his back was well-nigh unbearable; he was burn-
ing up wth thirst, and faint with hunger. Still he strained
h.s gaze eagerly after every passer-by, with a hope which
ever grew d.mmer. Presently, he saw with terror that two or

about h.m. He shneked aloud, and covering his eyes with his
arm, screamed frantically:

"Mother! Mother!"

In the midst of his agony, he became aware that some one
was speakmg to him. He looked un and .-J ' , r
between him and the blinding glare rt::L::';:;^'^^
Stephen, lymg prone in the dust, he looked very tall This
the boy saw; yet it was something else which hushed his sob
and ce, Him to look upon this man with breathles vie-
hat face of mysterious beauty; those wonderful eyes-deep
riLr^"^"'^' .t could be no other than Jus! g:^o

With a cry of joy, Stephen raised himself, and with hands
claspe and eyes still fastened on the stranger, half wh sp^re

Thou art Jesus-he that healeth! I know it- Thou
canst save my baby! He fell ^mm +k r

and dying." ''""^ ^^^ '^"^ ''^"^ '^ '^'•"shed

Il'

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

A beautiful smile dawned in the stranger's eyes, and lifting
his face towards heaven, he said:

" I thank thee, O my Father, that thou hast hid these things
from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto
babes." Then looking again upon Stephen with a tender,
compassionate gaze, which comprehended all his weakness
and deformity, he laid his hand gently on the boy's head.

" According to thy faith, be it unto thee. Go in peace."

And, lo! under that blessed touch the boy felt all weariness,
all pain, all weakness, pass away; and with a cry of exceeding
great joy, he arose from the ground perfectly healed.

"Blessed," indeejl, "are the merciful; for they shall obtain
mercy."

/es, and lifting

id tliese things
?d them unto
/ith a tender,
his weakness
•y's head.
• in peace."
: all weariness,
y of exceeding
2aled.
y shall obtain

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS. 39

CHAPTER V.

, HE short summer night was almost
past. The moon had set an hour
ago; the stars were melting away
into dimness; while in the east a
faint, rosy glimmer showed that
dawn was at hand. Over the
surface of the water a cool wind
was blowing, which caused two
fishing-boats well out from the
land to roll heavily. The occupants of one of
these boats were busily engaged in hauling in and examin-
ing the.r fishing nets; yard after yard of the net came in
drippmg and glittering, with but here and there a little fish
caught in the meshes.

"We may as well stop for to-night," exclaimed one of the
men impatiently, throwing the last fish overboard

"I told thee," said his companion, "that with the wind in
this quarter we might as well bide at home. Hail the other
boat, Simon. It may be that they have something "

The last yard of " • net having been hauled in by this
time, Simon stood up in the bow of the boat and called mak-
ing a trumpet of his two hands. Presently came back iTa t
answer. '"im

" "f f^^Sht anything.?" sho-.ted Simon, with all the
strength of his strong lungs.

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

':!

" No," came back the reply.

" *Tis as 1 said," observed the other, who was named
Andrew. " Let us hoist sail and make for home. We can
cast again in the bay near the city; we sometimes get a good
haul there, when not a fin is to be seen anywhere else."

In less time than it takes to tell it, the anchor was hauled
aboard, and the great wing-like sail raised. As it caught the
fresh breeze, and the somewhat clumsy craft began to move
smoothly through the water, the two sat down in the stern,
Simon grasping the tiller.

" Canst see what the others are doing, Andrew?" he
inquired.

" They are raising their sail," he answered.

" They also are weary," said Simon, in a somewhat absent
tone. Then he continued: " Dost know what has been in my
mind as we toiled in the night?"

"How could I?" replied Andrew. "Thou hast hardly
spoken, and that were a marvel for thee, who art somewhat
free of speech."

" I have been thinking of the Nazarene all the night
through," said Simon. " I care not for the fishing now,
whether our catch be good or bad; I would fain be with him.
Hast thou thought of the marvel of it all ? Perchance we have
lighted on strange times; perhaps it were best that we give up
the fishing for good and all."

"Give up the fishing!" quoth Andrew in surprise. " How
can we do that ?"

" Why," repliec? the other, " we have enough and to spare;
the vineyard beareth well now, and the women are frugal.

10 was named
)me. We can
nes get a good
re else."
or was hauled
; it caught the
3egan to move
1 in the stern,

Andrew?" he

lewhat absent
as been in my

hast hardly
art somewhat

all the night

fishing now,

be with him.

tiance we have

lat we give up

rpnse.

How

1 and to spare;
en are frugal.

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS. 41

We do not net ! the money. If we give up the fishing, we
could be with him all the while."

"But, brother," said Andrew, "doth he want us.?"
"Nay, I know not. But ! think that he needeth some one
Knowest thou not that there be whispers against him of late?
He IS not of the Pharisees, nor yet of the Scribes. And in
truth, he doth strangely set aside many of their laws and cus-
toms."

" I know," said Andrew solemnly, " what John said of him
He said It twice in my hearing before the baptism in the Jor-
dan, and again afterward; 'twas this: 'Behold the Lamb of
God.' John believeth him to be the Christ. Perhaps thou art
right, Simon, about the fishing. If what John Baptist saith be
true, and he is indeed the Christ, we ought to be with him
where he is. And now John lieth in prison, and we cannot
tell what may befall him there. May Jehovah grant that
Herod cast not his evil eye upon the Master."
" Amen!" said Simon fervently.

After this a little silence fell between the two, broken only
by the sound of the green water as it swirled away behind the
rudder in a long, frothy wake. The dawn was brightening
momently now, and all the solemn pomp of sunrise beginning
behind the great blue hills on the eastern horizon. Before
them, seen dimly through the morning mists, rose tb. towers
and walls of fair Capernaum.

As the boats drew near the shore, it could be seen that many
people were congregated there, some sitting on the rocks.

In? r nT '''"'~"°' ^" """^"'^•' ^•^^*' f°^ 't was the
wont of all to rise early so that business might be well over

T*"

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

before the heat of the day began. Siill there seemed to be
something more than the incoming fishing boats to attract so
many.

" Seest thou yonder crowd? What dost thou make of it?"
asked Andrew.

Simon was silent for a moment, then he answered eagerly,
" 'Tis he, the Master; and the people throng him to hear him
speak. Let us make haste ! " And being now quite close
to the shore, he sprang into the water, and pulling the
boat after him, quickly made it fast, Andrew following him
more slowly.

Meanwhile the other boat, not far behind, and also
light because of its emptiness, had been drawn up ; and
the men in it, dragging their nets behind them, came also to
the shore.

When Jesus saw Simon, and Andrew, and the others, and
their boats empty, after all the night's toil, he entered into one
of the ships, vhich was Simon's, and prayed him that he
would thrust out a little from the land. Then he sat down
and taught the people out of the ship.

We may not know what he said that summer morning, so
long ago; but we know that he spoke of the things of God.
And as he sat there in the shadow of the great sail, his voice
sounding clear and sweet across the little space of water which
separated him from his hearers, healing fell on many a bleed-
ing heart; children stretched out their tiny hands towards him;
and love, stronger than death itself, sprang up beautiful and
mighty in many a soul.

Among those who stood on the very water's edge, were two

seemed to be
; to attract so

make of it?"

vered eagerly,
n to hear him
w quite close
pulling the
following him

nd, and also
wn up ; and
, came also to

e others, and

tered into one

him that he

he sat down

r morning, so
lings of God.
sail, his voice
f water which
nany a bleed-
towards him;
beautiful and

dge, were two

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS. 43

women, one bearing in her arms a rosy babe; with them was a
lad of about fourteen, with light golden hair, and great dark
eyes. When Jesus had ended his speaking, this lad clasped
his hands, and looking at him with a face like that of an angel
murmured: '

" Thou that healest, I love thee! I love thee!"
It was Stephen.

Now when the Master had done speaking to the people, he
turned to Simon, who, with Andrew, was with him in the boat
and said: " Launch out now into the deep, and let down your
nets for a draught." ^

"And Simon answering said unto him. Master, we have
oiled all the night, and have taken nothing ; nevertheless at
thy word I will let down the net. And when they had this
done they enclosed a great multitude of fishes, so that their
net brake. And they beckoned to their partners which were in
the other ship, that they should come and help them And
they came, and filled both the ships, so that they began to
sink. When Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus' knees
saying, Depart from me! for I am a sinful man, O Lord' For
he was astonished, and all they that were with him, at the
raught of the fishes which they had taken. And Je;us said
unto Simon, Fear not; from henceforth thou shalt catch men
And when they had brought their ships to land, they forsook
all and followed him." ^ lorsooK

Night again; and with it peace. Far below the solitary
wat her on the heights, lay the city, twinkling with Sabbath
l-ghts. At sunset, the mellow notes of the trumpet, from the

! i

^y ^^

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

roof of the synagogue, had announced the day of rest. Toil
was over for a brief space; the peasants had ceased their labor
in the fields; the shops and booths were closed; the fishing-
boats lay idle at the wharves.

Hours passed on. The city slept. Still the solitary figure
paced back and forth tirelessly, lifting his face to the heavens.
Below him the world, full of sin, full of misery, full of ignorance.
Above him, God. He— the link between.

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

^^?-p!upj^:%^H

CHAPTER VI.

^HE reader had finished dron-
ing out the eifThteen prayers.
The men on their side of the
synajrogue had listened with
reverent attention, and re-
sponded with devout amens. On the other side of the lattice
however, where tlie wumen and children sat, tliere was a'
subdued rustling. The place was very full; some were stand-
ing, and others crouched along the wall. To many who were
present the prayeis and psalms had a strange sound; they had
never been m the synagogue before, though they had often
seen it, and admired the beautiful rose-colored and white
marble of which it was built. But all who could crowd into
the place had come to-day; for it had been noised abroad that
the great Worker of miracles would be there, and curiosity to
see him, and the hope that he might perform some new
wonder, had brought many unaccustomed worshipers.

The Jewish women glanced askance at the foreign women
who, with their little ones clinging to their skirts, had crowded
into the best places for seeing.

"The ungodly ones!" whispered one to her neighbor.
Why are they here? If this man be indeed the Messiah, he
is not for them."

And now all the prayers had been recited, the lessons from
both the Law and the Prophets read, and in the breathless

h' ,.

I .if*

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

hush of expectancy which followed, the great Healer came
forward— the reader, following the custom, having asked him
to speak to the people. Every eye was fastened upon him,
and as he spoke words of authority, of divine a:.u burning
truth, the light of heaven which shone upon his face penetrated
the dark hearts in his presence. All were intent, silent, drink-
ing in his words, so different from the vague and stupid
utterances of the rabbis. Even the children, though they
understood not the words, felt the wonderful fascination of
that heart of love, and gazed quietly into his wonderful eyes.
Suddenly the sacred hush was broken; a man leaped up from
the ground and shrieked:

" Let us alone! What have we to do with thee, thou Jesus
of Nazareth? Art thou come to destroy us? 1 know thee who
thou art, the Holy One of God!"

Instantly all was confusion; women shrieked, children
cried, and men sprang up, exclaiming:

" He hath an evil spirit, and polluteth the sanctuary. Put
him out! Put him out!"

But Jesus silenced the tumult with a word. Then, turning
to the demoniac, who was already in the grasp of two or three
indignant worshipers, he said:

" Hold thy peace, and come out of him!"
With a great cry and convulsion, the man fell down wallow-
ing upon the floor; but presently, to the great amazement of
all, he rose up, calm and in his right mind.

Then all the people, being dismissed, went forth talking of
the wonderful thing which they had seen; for the man was
known to many of them.

TITUS : A COMHADE OF THE CROSS. 47

''Mother." said Stephen, that same evenin.r, « the trumpet
hath sounded and 'tis past su.set; shall we not^roforth^ I
would fam see more of this Jesus."

''1 will go with thee jriadly. my Stephen." replied his
mother. For truly never man spake as this man. Yet I feel
the wonder of it all so keenly, that I think perhaps I am only
dreammsr. Can it be that thou art really well and strong. ^•'

"It IS really true, mother." said Stephen, with a happy
laugh. "See how 1 can leap! And my hack hath never an
ache m it now; and see my flesh, how firm it is! Oh, mother
what can we do for him to show how glad, how thankful we
are.^ When he said to me. as I lay in the dust that dreadful
day. Go m peace.' and I sprang up for the first time since I
can remember, oh mother. I only clung to him and sobbed-I
could not speak for joy and wonder. Then he went away
before I could rightly tel! what iiad happened; and all the men
were stanng at me, a.u questioning, and others running to
see. And then-oh. then, mother-I ran back down the

TdAdl"''' ^ "''"''"'' **''''^^'^' ' ^°""^ "^y^e'^ ^ith you

"Yes," went on his mother. " we thought the little fellow
dymg. he lay so still, when suddenly the door of the courtyard
flew open, and thou didst fly, rather than run, to the spot
where the baby lay. My Stephen, 1 did not know thee- 1
thought It was some spirit, till thou didst cry out, ' Go-ro is
saved! and lam well!'" ^^^^ ii>

" And he was well ! " put in Stephen

"Yes, perfectly well." said Prisca, " Not a bruise on him.
Ah! how wonderful !"

If^"*"'

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

1-1 :

" Mother!" exclaimed the boy after a little pause, "let us go
forth and find some sick ones among our neighbors, and tell
them. Thou knowest that he said, ' I am sent to heal the
broken-hearted; to preach deliverance to the captives, and
recovering of sight to the blind; to set at liberty them that are
bruised.' Those were his very words. I cannot forget them.
And, mother, if he came for that, would it not please him best
if we should help him to do it?"

" Thou art right, my son; I feel that thou art. We will go."
And hastily wrapping herself in her mantle, and securing the
door of their little home, she set forth with the lad.

"We must stop here," said Stephen, pausing before a door.
"Yes," said Prisca, "a blind man dwelleth here."
They knocked, and a voice from within answered: " Enter."
Pushing open the door, they found themselves in a courtyard
more wretched than their own, for it was untidily littered with
straw and filth; several goats and sheep wandered freely about;
while a dozen or so of fowls perched aloft.

Sitting against the wall, with his head bowed forward on
his knees, and his wretched garments wrapped tightly about
him, was a man.

" Greetings to thee!" said the clear voice of the child.

At the sound, the man raised his shaggy head, and turned
his face toward the doorway.

" Who art thou.?" he said in a husky voice.

" I am Stephen, son of Dumachus. I am come with my
mother that we may lead thee forth to find the great Healer.
He will cure thee of thy blindness."

" Nay, thou mockest me," groaned the man. " For knowest

TITUS : A COAIRADE OF THE CROSS. 49

thou not that my eyes were burned out with a red-hot iron:
they be shriveled up in my head. No man could heal me."

" But thou knowest not the power which this man hath,"
said Stephen. Then he poured forth eagerly the wonderful
story of his own healing, and that of the baby.

But the man only groaned and drew his rags more closely
about him.

" Come— come quickly!" said the lad.

" Thou wert an innocent child, the babe also," said the man
hoarsely, " but I-who am I, that one should heal me! I am
accursed of gods and men. 'Twere best for me to die."

" Nay, good neighbor," cried Stephen impatiently, under-
standing nothing of all this. "Thou must come." And
running quickly up to the man, he seized his hand and gave
him a gentle pull.

Something in the touch of those soft childish fino-ers
perhaps the first friendly touch he had felt in years, bmke
down the barriers in the man's soul-barriers raised by
the disgrace, shame and suffering of years-and burying
his face in his hands, he sobbed aloud, Stephen still stand"
ing by, his childish soul perplexed at the sight of so much
misery.

" Come," he said presently, again touching the man. And
this time the poor wretch rose from the ground, stretching
forth his hands gropingly.

"I will lead thee," said Stephen joyfully, possessing himself
of one of the outstretched hands. And so the two set forth,
Prisca following.

"Dost thou know where to find him.? "asked the man

,'■ N

i
■

i ■ ''

Ui ' ''

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

■i I

|li:
|ii^

iiii

in a trembling voice, a strange hope beginning to stir in
his heart.

" Nay," said Stephen, " but we shall find him." Then with
a sudden illumination of eternal truth, he added simply: " If we
want him truly and seek for him, we cannot fail to find him."
Said Prisca, " I heard one of the women in the synagogue
say that he lodgeth at the house of Simon the fisherman! *He
dwelleth near the lake; i know the place."

As they proceeded on their way thither, they saw many
others thronging the narrow streets. Some carried beds on
which lay poor sufferers wasted with every woeful disease
known to man; others led the blind, or helped half-crippled
ones slowly and painfully along. And as the multitude, ever
growing, hurried on, the moans of the sufferers on their beds,
the shrieks of demoniacs, and the wailing of sick children,'
made a mighty chorus of misery.

The house of Simon, as Prisca had said, was by the lake-
side. It was a modest but thoroughly comfortable dwelling of
two stories. Instead of the customary courtyard, a small Jar-
den extended in gentle terraces to the water's edge; two or
three fine fig trees cast a pleasant shade, while roses, oleanders,
and lilies made the spot a sweet and pleasant one. Here dwelt
Simon, who was also called Peter, his wife, and the mother of
his wife, together with Andrew his brother. And here dwelt
Jesus when he sojourned in Capernaum,

On this Sabbath evening the family, with their beloved
guest, were sitting in the garden enjoying the cool air, and
talking in low tones. That day the Master had done great
things for them also. The mother had been taken violently ill

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS. 51

With fever, and when Jesus was told of it after his return from
the synagogue, he had taken her by the hand and lifted her
up and immediately the fever had left her. so that she was
able to rise and minister to them.

As they sat, therefore, James and John being with them
enjoying the Sabbath peace, and listening to Jesus as he talked'
they became aware of a confusion of sounds-sounds of hurry-
ing feet, of loud crying and wailing, mixed with shrieks and
groans, and ever drawing nearer.

" Hark!" said the wife of Peter, rising in her alarm. "What
mean those d^ 'efui sounds?"

" Thr . utude is seeking the Master," said John. " They
are bnn^mg their sick with them." And rising, he went to
the door of the garden and looked out.

There was near Peter's house a square or market-place,
and to this spot the people were hastening. And now they
began to lay their burdens down upon the ground, the first-
comers crowding as near as possible to the gateway of the
garden, calling out as they did so: "Where is he that healeth?
Let him come forth to us!" With many other confused cries
such as, "Jesus, thou son of David, have mercy'" "Master'
come forth, we pray thee!" And through it all sounded the
woeful no.se of the wailing of the sick ones, whose sufferings
had been greatly increased by the hurried journey through the
streets and by the confusion and excitement.

dut now into the midst of all this misery came the benign
figure of the great Physician, divine love, sympathy, tender-
ness and healing flowing from his eyes and his outstretched
hands, even as the fragrance pours forth from the cup of a lily

II !

i 1

! f

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

IB #1

And as ae moved among the wretched beings, and touched
one here and there, laying his hands on others with words of
forgiveness and peace, the moans and shrieks changed to cries
of rejoicing and relief. Already many were going happily
away, to make room for others who were still coming from
every quarter, when Prisca and Stephen with their charge
reached the place.

"He is here," said Stephen joyfully, clasping the hand of
the bhnd man closer. « And many, oh, many others are here
to be healed ; and some are going away well," he continued.
And mdeed the quick ear of the blind man had already
caught the exclamations of thanksgiving, amid the babel of
sound, and, breaking away from the hands that still held him,
he ran with a quick instinct to a little open space where Jesus
had paused for an instant, and throwing himself on his knees,
caught him by the garment, and cried out loudly :

"Jesus, Master! I beseech thee to have mercy on me!"
And he answered : " Believest thou I am able to do this ?"
"I believe," murmured the man, turning his sightless eyes
up to thv^ face above him.

Jesus, looking at him, beheld behind the blind eyes the soul
stained with guilt, weary with suffering, and hungry for love;
and, touching his eyes, he said, " Go in peace."

And the blind man was blind no longer. He saw; and his
first vision was ..f that face full of compassion and tenderness
Then was his soul stirred with a mighty love for the Healer
And he rose up and went away, as he was bidden, carrying
with him a memory destined to become a perpetual fountain of
blessing to himself and others through time and eternity.

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

ill

CHAPTER VII.

^ "E morning sun, as it flickered cheerfully
.M through the high latticed window of a room
m the house of Caiaphas, revealed an apart^
ment of noble proportions. After the fashion
of he times, a divan extended along the
wall on three sides; the fourth side bein.

low tables, and chairs of Roman workmanship rrev.se

o^r :t,-ru- r'-^^ ™ --^"^^^^^^^^

The sole occupant of the room on this nle.sint n. ■
was Arm +h^ „ ■( ^ . pleasant mornmg

was AKna the wife or Ca.aphas. Sorrow-laden years had

still perfect and graceful as In youth '""" """

c .^blng roses and ofHer fragrant flowe'rw e.h T^ Zl'
trades, and cast pleasant silhouttes of dancing leaves on , he
™rble pavement beneath. The tinkling of a f:un«n w

!|i

(,: I

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

borne pleasantly to the ear, mingled with the twittering of
birds. It was very quiet and peaceful, and the peace seemed
reflected in the face of the lady, as she worked quietly and
steadily, drawing the gold threads through the rich fabric in
her hands.

Presently there was a sound of footsteps on the terrace, and
Anna, raising her eyes from her work, saw the tall figure of a
man standing at the entrance.

" Greetings to thee, my wife," he said.

At the sound of his voice the lady rose, and casting aside
her work, came forward to meet him with a little cry of joy.

"'Tisthou, my husband! And 1 expected thee not until
evening."

"We traveled by the light of the full moor and found it
more pleasant than sunlight," said the man. •' is all well with
the household.?" he continued, "and with thee, my Anna.?"

" All is well," she answered. " And how didst thou find
our kinsfolk in Capernaum?"

" They are in good health," replied Caiaphas; then frown-
ing darkly, he added, " But Jairus is as strangely infatuated
with the man Jesus as are others in Galilee; he declares that
he believeth him to be the Messiah. 'Tis rank blasphemy, and
goeth against the Scriptures."

" But is it true about the miracles of healing of which we
have heard.?" asked Anna with true feminine curiosity.

" There is no end to the marvels which fill the mouth of
every Galilean rustic," said Caiaphas contemptuously. "I
would that the marvels were all of it, but the pestilential
teachings of the man—" Here he checked himself, saying,

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS. 55

"But these be not things to trouble thee with., I shall take
steps to put a stop to it. Now I must rid myself of the
stams of travel; and wilt thou, my Anna, bid the servants pre-
pare me some refreshment, for I have not eaten since before
sunrise. But stay!" he added, fumbling in the ample folds of
his garment. " I have a letter for thee from the wife of
Jairus." And handing Anna a small sealed packet, he hur-
riedly left the apartment.

Anna regarded the letter in her hand with a smile of pleased
expectancy, but forbore to open it until she had made due
arrangements with her maids for the comfort of her husband-
for she was a notable housewife. Then traversing the terrace'
she descended the marble stairway which led into the garden'
and seating herself upor. a bench near the fountain, proceeded
to break the seal of the letter which she still held in her hand.
It was written upon a fine parchment, then tightly rolled
bound about with a silken thread, and sealed with wax in
several places; so that the opening of it was a matter which
occupied several moments. The last seal being broken, the
lady spread open the parchment and began to read.

Sara the zvife of Jairus, unto the noble lady Anna, my sUter
beloved of Jehovah, Greetings :

We have had much pleasure in the presence with us of
Caiaphas, thy most noble husband, and the High Priest of the

fh Jt^i^^P"',, ^"^K ^^^Pe^'-'^l'y did we rejoice in^the knovAeZl
that all IS well wi h thee, and with thy household, and with
the household of Annas, our father. In truth, though this be
a fair city, and though our home be very dear to me, I often-

kin.tn r^ ^7 ^''^ *'^""^' °^ "^y y°"*h' '-^"d for the fac^s of mv
kinsfolk and acquaintance which be at Jerusalem. Of late,

lliii

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

there hath been that which hath caused much talk amonp us:
lo-wit the presence in Capernaum of the Nazarene, Jesus,
who hath wrought great wonders of healing, and teacheth new
and strange thmgs. iV\y husband. Jairus, who is, as thou
knowest, a just man, and one holy and acceptable in the si^ht
of our God, believeth him to be the Messiah foretold by the
bcriptures; and I grieve that the matter was one which caused
a hot dispute between my husband and the worshipful Caia-
^ u-^u u'^^ ^"'' "myself, I have seen with mine own eyes that
which hath caused me to be filled with wonder and amazement:
for, behold, the lame walk, the deaf hear, and all manner of
diseases have been healed by this man. Moreover, he hath
cast out many devils from those possessed by them, and the
Q^e^'s themselves have testified of him that he is the Holy One

He is beautiful to look upon, my *nna, but of a mysterious
and wonderful presence, so that, while one looks, there seem-
eth to go out from him an influnce which draweth all unto
him. Even our little Ruth, who hath seen him, and heard him
preach in our synagogue, ceaseth not to talk of him; and she
doth frequently beg me to go forth with her to seek him. This
have 1 not done, for the crowds which attend him at all times
are so great that it were not seemly for me, a daughter of
Annas, to mingle with them. Notwithstanding, I have taken
every opportunity to hear him whenever it hath been possible
and also to inform myself of his teachings. He teacheth often
by stories and parables, and, in brief, that all may return unto
God the Father of all. H speaks of himself, sometimes as
A, H ?l ^°^' ^^^' sometimes as the Son of man, and
declareth that he hath come f mm God to call sinners to repent-
ance. It is rumored that in Samaria, even, he hesitated not to
u u xJ^ woman of their nation concerning this salvation-
which thing would not be done by the Rabbis, as thou know-
est, for indeed the Samaritans be not of the true faith.

Another strange thing about this man is that he hath selected
for his followers certain men of the lower classes, some of whom
are fishermen by trade, and dwell in Capernaum. In truth

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS. 57

my sister, 1 fear that I cannot make thee clearly to under^tnnH
^^ed* tte^MeS '"S"! -^T"^ '" believ'L't t™fm n s,

pafthf :^tt fn"'„i^L"„iie*'e.rii;;^i^^:;rtt^l'f^

then assuredly thou wilt understand. ^ ^^^^'

HJLI'Vh^refthfet^rai^^^^^^^^^

As Anna finished reading this epistle, she became aware
that someone was waiting her pleasure to speak with her. and
raising her eyes, she saw Malchus, the favorite servant of her
husband. The man made a gesture expressive of profound
respect, and then spoke:

"My lord hath desired me to say unto thee, most noble
ady that matters of importance will detain him until the hour
for the evening repast. He will see thee at that time, if it be
thy pleasure."

The man after delivering his message was about to with-
draw, when Anna detained him with a word

" Stay!" she said. " Thou mayst tell thy master that it is
well, and that the repast will be served in the garden of the
mner house, at sunset. 1 will await him thetc."

Then as the man still lingered, she added pleasantly-for
he was an old and trusted servant-" Didst thou enjoy thv
journey to Capernaum, Malchus?"

> -ii

W 1^

TITUS : A COMIMDE OF THE CROSS.

" I did, most noble lady," wns the reply; then rather hesi-
tatingly he added, " I saw there a man whom I knew formerly
in Jerusalem, He had been sick with the palsy for many
years, and when last I saw him, had Iain on his bed unable to
move for more than ten years. He was walking about in the
streets of Capernaum as nimbly as 1 myself. I spoke with
him, for I thought at first that my eyes had played me false,
but it was the same man. His name is Eliphaz, and formerly,
before he was stricken with his ailment, he was a servant of
the revered Annas."

" And what caused this most notable cure, good Malchus?"
said Anna encouragingly.

" I asked him, most noble lady, and he said that one Jesus
of Nazareth, which is in Galilee, saw him lying upon his mat
at the city gate, and bade him rise up and carry his bed to his
home; and that he was able to carry out the command. It
was a most amazing thing! Afterward, I myself saw the man
who worked the miracle."

" Didst thou see him perform any cure.'" questioned Anna.

" Nay; he was telling a story to a crowd of people. 'Twas
a pretty tale and easy to be understood. The children who
were there— and there were very many of them— listened as
quietly as any of the grown folk. I should like to have heard
more, but I could not stop, for I was taking a message from
my master to one of the rabbis."

Anna longed to question the man further, but restrained
herself, and dismissed him with a pleasant word of praise for
his faithfulness.

Meanwhile Caiaphas, the high priest, was seriously occu-

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CF^OSS. 59

pied in his own part of the mansion. Soon after his arrival in
Jerusalem, he had sent messengers to men of authority in the
Jewish church, with imperative summons to wait upon him at
a certam hour in the palace. For some time past, a servant
had been ushermg these expected guests into an apartment
vvh.ch was especially set apart for such purposes. It was like
the o.,2r rooms in the palace, lofty and well lighted, but' fur-
nisher With the utmost simplici nd severity

When all were assembled. Malchus acquainted his master
with the fact, and he entered the apartment with a mier at
once dignified a.,J austere. All but one of the company rose
in greeting, and before that one. Caiaphas himself paused, and
bowing his head, said:

"Most revered and noble Annas, I greet thee; and I am
especially glad that thou art present with us to-day, for by thy
wisdom thou canst guide us in our deliberations."

The man who had sat to receive the salutation of the high
priest, was of reverend aspect; his beard flowing upon his
breast was of silvery whiteness, while beneath the snowy folds
of his turban shone singularly keen and brilliant eyes Yet
despite its dignity, there was in the face of this man that which
to the close observer would indicate cunning, obstinacy, and
cruelty. ^

He responded courteously to the greeting of Caiaphas, and
as the latter seated himself said: "My son, thou hast called us
together to-day to learn the result of thy mission to Galilee
What IS now thine opinion of the man who is called Jesus?"

"I found," said Caiaphas, " that the reports of the excite-
ment in Galilee had not been exaggerated, but rather that we

TITUS : A COAUUDE OF THE CROSS.

bid not heard to the full how this man hath stirred up the
populate. He hath been teaching not only in the streets of
the city, and in the byways of the country round about, but
after the manner of the rabbis, he enters into the synagogues
and teaches there. According to the popular reports he hath
performed great works of healing. Of these 1 did not satisfy
myself; for I saw nothing, and of that which I heard, I make
no account. The credulity of the common peopl.' is well
known; and more especially in Galilee, they are ignorant and
little qualified to judge of such matters."

"But," said a man called Nicodemus, " is it not true that
even in Jerusalem this Jesus wrought some notable cures?"

'"Tis said that he did, most noble friend," replied Caiaphas.
" But which of us can prove it.? if the cures had been per-
formed upon reputable citizens, they might perhaps be worthy
of our note; but, as thou knowest, the ones professing to be
healed were beggars. And the word of a beggar— what is it!
But after all, it is not of this Jesus as a physician that we
would speak. He might heal all the beggars in the country
without harm; but his more serious pretensions demand our
consideration. I tell thee frankly that the man pretends to be
the Messiah, and as such is likely to have a great following
among the people."

"His pretensions are blasphemous," broke in the sonorous
voice of Annas. " I have studied the Prophets from my youth
up, and nowhere do 1 find such an one as this for^etold. The
Messiah is to be a mighty king, who will save the chosen peo-
ple of Jehovah fro'm the hand of their enemies; and he shall
establish his throne in Jerusalem and reign in power. It is

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS. 61

moreover prophesied, that the prince shall be of the lineage of
David, and shall be born in Bethlehem of Judea. This man is
a Nazarene."

"If this man were the Messiah," spid another, "he would
assuredly seek to ally himself with the priesthood of the Mnst
High."

"He not only doth not o seek t-. ally himself," broke in
Caiaphas with an angry rcn, " i jt he hath been heard
to speak lightly of the laws .-J cv Urns of the church, and
even of the Pharisees and Sc.bes. Moreover he observeth
not our laws, and doth eat with unwashen hands, and min-
gleth with publicans and sinners, even going into their houses
to eat and to drink. My counsel is. that we require certain
wise and prudent ones of the rabbis to watch this man, and
report to us of his doings; for there is great danger to the
priesthood, and to the institutions of the God of our fathers, if
he be allowed to teach unchecked."

" Thou speakest with wisdom, servant of the Most Hicrh,"
said Annas. " It is our duty to guard the faith of ou. fathers
and to preserve it from contamination. If this man be a blas-
phemer, he ought to die. it is our law. Yet must we move
with due caution and secrecy in the matter, lest we incur the
displeasure of the people."

A murmur of applause followed this sentiment; and then
arose a discussion of ways and means, in which all present
took part, with the result that certain wise and crafty men,
approved by the council, were appointed to go into Galilee
and watch the man Jesus, that they might find sufficient
accusation against him to warrant putting him to death.

:'f-

w' y

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

CHAPTER VIII.

IS a wonderful tale, my Stephen, but I
^=. must needs believe it, since I have thee
■"^'■- before mine eyes, and I make sure that I
am not dreaming it all."
The speaker was Titus, and as he said the last
words, he gave himself a vigorous shake, as if to prove to him-
self beyond a doubt that he was in full possession of his wak-
ing senses.

The two lads were walking slowly along the lake shore
stopping now and then, to throw a pebble into the translucent
water which rippled on the beach at their feet. Stephen had
been pouring forth the wonderful tale of his meeting with
Jesus, and of the healing of Gogo and himself.

"And to think," he went on, "that thou hast not seen him'
Nay, but thou must see him when he returns to Capernaum.
Oh, Titus, I love him so-better than anyone in the whole
world!"

"Better than thy mother, boy.?" questioned Titus, some-
what surprised.

"Yes, better than mother; arJ yet I love mother more than
ever before, and thee also, my Titus. He loves everyone If
thou couldst have seen his face, the night when so many sick
folk were carried to him to be healed! I was half afraid to
look, and yet I longed to, for there was a light upon it like to

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

the light of the sun— and yet not like it; and when he spoke
to the blind man, and said to him, ' Go in peace,' 1 felt in my
soul that the man must needs see. No one could remain blind
before the glory of that face! Thou knowest,'" continued
Stephen, after a little pause, "that we have had ,;o religion;
father speaks of the gods, when he curses. Mother told me
once that she was of Jewish blood, yet hath she never gone to
the synagogue, save once when she knew that the Healer
would be there. I would I knew something of the Father of
whom he speaks. One thing I know," he added with energy,
" I shall continue to follow him and listen to all that he saith,
and perhaps 1 shall find out soon."

" Hast thou had speech with the man since he healed thee.?"
asked Titus.

"Nay," answered Stephen, "he is always surrounded with
crowds, and so many would speak with him that I know not
how he findeth time to take food; but I have followed him day
by day here in Capernaum, and when, a few days since, he
set forth to visit the villages round about, I went as far as I
could with him. I knew the mother would fear for me, if I
failed to return by nightfall. Titus, I am sure that something
IS wrong with mother. She weeps often and so bitterly that I
am afraid— yet father hath been away, and I am well."

" Hast thou asked her what aileth her.?" queried Titus.

"Often and often," said Stephen, " but she only answers:
' Thou canst not help me, my son, and why should I tell thee.?'
Wilt thou ask her, my Titus.?"

" Perhaps," said Titus briefly.

" And now tell me what thou hast been doing, and where

'f|

i .Ml

Tiirrf

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

' I.
1

thou hast been; and let us sit here, in the shade of this tree
for the sun waxeth too warm for comfort." And Stephen
threw himself down benepth a thrifty fia tree.

Titus followed his example, and pdling a stalk of lilies
which grew near, he began plucking it to pieces, throwing the
brilliant leaves in showers upon the ground.

"Thou wouldst not do that, hadst thou heard the Master
speak of the lilies," said Stephen quietly, stretching out his
hand as if to save the flowers.

" And what said he of the lilies.?" asked Titus moodily, con-
tinuing his work of destruction.

" He said that the Father made them, and that if he cared
for the lilies enough to make them so fair, he would surely
care for the creatures which he also made. He said, too, that
he himself came to teach us of the Father, who is great and
mighty, and who loves all of us."

"Humph .'"said Titus gruffly, throwing away the dismantled
stalk with an impatient gesture.

"What aileth thee, my Titus.?" said Stephen ienderly
taking one of the strong brown hands in both his own " Thou
seemest not like thyself. But come, tell me of all that thou
didst while thou wert gone."

" 'Twere not a fit tale for thee to hear," said Titus, fixing a
gloomy look on the white sails which glittered on the blue sur-
face of the lake. '< What couldst thou expect of such ruffians?
Thou didst hear then talk the night we set forth. I was com-
pelled by brute force to do things which i will not tell thee
Nay, may my tongue wither up in my mouth, if I do'" he*
added fiercely. " 1 tell thee 1 hate Dumachus and all of his

■I

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS. 65

crew! They be devils, and will make me one too. When thou
talkest m thy innocent fashion of this great Healer, as thou
callest him, I cannot tell thee how I feel. He healeth the lame
the sick and the helpless, while we have been robbing, maim-
mg-yes, even killing!"-the last in a husky whisper, and the
lad buried his face in his hands, and wept convulsively

Stephen sat in perfect silence, all the happy light gone out
of his lace; but at length he stretched out his hand, and laid
It gently on Titus' bowed head.

"Thou wouldst never do such things of thyself, my Titus
Thou hast ever been tender with the mother and with me- in
the dark days before I was healed, I could never have borne it
but for thee; thou didst carry me in thy strong arms; thou
didst sing to me, and tell me tales which eased me of my
weariness and pain. Thou art a good lad, and a true, Titus ''
he went on stoutly, "and thou shalt not go with those bad me'n
again. Stay with the mother and me, and all shall be well
with thee."

Titus had ceased his sobbing; straightening himself and
half turning away his face to hide tha redness of his eyes he
said brokenly: '

" I am not good, my Stephen, but thou art good enough for
us both. Let us walk further."

" Yes," said Stephen, springing up with alacrity. " It may
be that we shall meet him of whom I have told thee A
week since, he set forth to make a circuit of the lake for I
asked one of the fishermen who follow him at all times "

" What fishermen dost thou mean?" asked Titus, interested
in the mention of his own favorite craft.

I '

U ' ■
i

Tirpf"

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

" They be Simon, with his brother Andrew, also James and
John, sens of Zebedee. Dost know them?"

" I know who they are; 1 have oftentimes seen them on the
lake fishing, and once, one of them spoke kindly to me at
the wharf." .

" They do not fish now," said Stephen. " They have given

it up, that they may not leave

the Healer. I heard the people

talk of it. A rabbi in the

crowd said, 'Good people, this

man selecteth strange disci-
ples; dost see it.?' But the

people paiu no manner of

attention to him— they were

too busy talking of all that

they had seen and heard."
"Then the rabbis love him

not.'" said Titus with a laugh.
"They be jealous for their
own teaching — the canting
hypocrites! I have heard
them standing in the market-
places, droning out their long
prayers. They must needs
draw their robes about them, for fear such an one as I
should pollute them with a touch. But what is that crowd of
people yonder about.? See them running from every direction!
Let us make haste and see! "

Saying which, Titus broke into a run, followed by Ste|:'- ;.

"1 have heard them droning- out
their long prayers."

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS. 67

"What is it ail about? 1 see nothing," said Titus, to one
who was craning his neck to look up the road.

" Kaowest thou not," answered the man, " that Jesus of
Nazareth passeth this way? Even now he is coming. ^ Dost
thou not see?" And he pointed to a cloud of dust on the
highway, where dimly appeared a confused multitude of
people. '< Thou seest that ^reat numbers are with him " con-
tinued their informant. <-The people flock after him from
every village. There hath never been the l-:ke of this man in
these parts before; f.r he doeth wonuer. of healing, and
besides that, he speaketh not as the rabbis, but with such
power Inat even the devils obey him."

"1 am one that he healed," said Stephen simply, for he

listen "°* ^'^^ ^'"'"^ *"'' °'^" '*°''^ *' '^^'^ °"' ^'^° ^°"'^

The man stared at him. "And of what did he heal thee?"
he asked.

" I was a cripple-" begtin Stephen. But at that moment
they were interrupted by a . ...i and mournful cry, but withal
in so strange a voice that all started to hear it.

"Unclean! Unclean!" wailed the voice

"Room for the leper!" shouted half a dozen voices; and
there was an instant scattering among those who were crowd-
ing the road in their anxiety to see.

Stephen and Titus s-ank back among the rest, and saw
the tall figure of the leper, as he limped painfully toward the
advancing multitude, still crying at intervals in his hoarse
metallic voice: '

"Unclean! Unclean!"

f'^

>'' ',

if; 3.

^ir '

ffl^

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE- CROSS.

^ ) li

His face was partly concealed by the coarse linen -.f irs
head-covering, which he had drawn forward so as to hiJe as
much as possible the ghastly ravages of his malady. But it
was evident that he was sufferin^^ from ;<p advanced stage of
that disease the most horrible and hopeless which ha- ever
afflicted mankind.

By this time the confused crowd of men, women and chi!-
dten, with Jc su;>, walking in their midst, had nearly reached
the place wher- the leper sto:d. As they approached, again

sounded forth the dlsmw}

cry:

"Unclean! !j,>.c,e-in!"

The advancing multitude shrank back, leaving Jesus stand-
ing alone in the midst of the highway. When the Lrer saw
him, and that he did not turn from him, as did the others, he
ran forw trd, and falling upon his face in the dust, cried out:

" Lord, if thou wilt, thou canst make me clean."

And Jesus put forth his hand and touched him, saying, " I
will: be thou clean."

And immediately he rose up and it was seen of all of them
that his leprosy was departed, and that his flesh was like that
of other men.

In the awed hush that followed, Jesus talked with him
that had been a leper; but in so low a tone that no other
could hear. Afterward it appeared from the man's account,
that the Healer was directing him to go quietly and show
himself to the priest, as Moses had commanded, thus fulfilling
the law of cleansing; and also, that he charged him strictly
to tell no one else of the wonderful thing which had been
done unto him.

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS. 69

n. ^"*rl^' """" ^"^"''''^' ' ^''^^ ''y ''"^'^ f^o'^ '-^H the peo-
ple and they crowded abouf the Healer more closely than

before so that Stephen and Titus, who still stood at the out-
skirts of the throng, were pushed to one side.

"Was not that a marvelous thing?" said Stephen, when he
could nnd his voice.

But Titus did not answer, and, looking up at him, Stephen
saw that his great dark eyes were brimming over with tears..

Ill

70 TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

CHAPTER IX.

^ ,_^ '^^^ SAY, young man! thou lookest to
E"* » iif h^ve a sturdy back — wilt thou not
'-Ul. Wk '^^'P "s with our burden?"

The speaker was one of four
men, who were bearing some
apparently heavy load between
them, and the person to whom
he addressed himself was Titus,
who, with Stephen, was return-
ing from a fishing expedition
on the lake.

The two were well laden
with the spoils of their even-
ing's work, and with the fish-
ing nets, yet at the sound of the voice they stopped, and mov-
ing toward the spot where the four men stood, they percei. ed
that the burden which they had been carrying was one of the
light beds, or sleeping mats, and that upon it lay the figure of
a man apparently helpless.

"Thou seest," went on the first speaker, "that we have
undertaken to carry this young man to the house of Simon the
fisherman, for it is there that Jesus of Nazareth bideth, and we
hope that he may be able to heal him." At this the man on the
pallet groaned audibly. " But one of our bearers is an old man
and infirm, and he hath not the strength to proceed further; so

* %

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS. 7|

TXTcu" '," " '"' ""• '" *"* *^ ^"" «° "-'her forward
nor back, unless, young man, tiiou wilt help us "

"1 will «ladly help thee," said Titus. ■• Here Stephen
canst take my net and the.se fish'" ^".phen,

of "tL^l""" "'"' '" '"''■" '""^ '" 'he quavering voice
of the old man, who had by this time somewhat recovered
h,rnself. " And a father's blessing be upon thee, if thou do'
help my poor boy to find the Healer."

"O father," groaned the sufferer upon the bed, " wh.at is

ag.i.n,th.-,t 1 suffer on account of ray sins; and that 1 must
eeds bear ,t, for it be laid upon me by the Almighty? Surely

Most HiX fr:H*° T""'' '°"^"^" ''' '"^«-"'^ »' 'he
Most _ High, for thou knowest that 1 am a sinner above all

knl?h?th '"I""' *' '"""'"■" «'"""""' 'he old man. "I
art a good '7 T; *°" "'' *''^ ""' ' ^"°" 'h- 'ha. thou
and l^am th I' ^"^ """' "' "' "^ "^hteous altogether,
and I am thmkmg that, were the Almighty so minded he

Ton asTav" Th"" '° °'" ''''■ '"' '"^''^^ '^ ^ htt
n::rue!7ds..''"^ " ""' °"' '«hteous-no, not one. ,s i.

,JZ rhisTa™." "' "^"'' *"' •^""^ '^" *^ "-^ ''-

tira'e ^hT' """' "°"- ' ''" ""' "f *^ hearers briskly, " 'tis

Steady'" ATdT'f ''"'"« ^'°"* """^ 'hen, take"^ hold!
ateady! And the four with their burden set off at <, r,„iH

pa„ down the street, the old man and Stepherf:!!;^

i I' I

fWlf*

TITUS A COy.UAlJE OF THE CIJOSS.

" My poor bo.\'! My poor boy!" murmured the old man, as
if to himself, shaking his head .-^adly.

" Hath he been long in this way?" a«;l<p^ Stephen, sympa-
thetically.

" Since he was eight years of age," said" the father. " He
was run over by a Roman chariot— poor lad! There was some
heathen festival or other in Tiberias— where we lived then—
and the hoy was minded to see it. His mother bade him stay
at homp,but he 'scaped from her notice, and the first we knew
of It, the neighbors brought him to us half dead. Ah, 'twere a
pity, a pity! He was a lusty lad ere he was hurt, and never
had broken our commands before that day. Since then he
hath lain constantly on his bed; for omeway, the hurt took
all the life and feeling from his limbs, so that he cannot move
them. After a while we came to Capernaum, and his mother
hatli not ceased to pray for his recovery. May the Almighty
grant it, as he did the prayer of Hannah! But the rabbis will
have it that he is suffering for sin; and in a way he is, poor
^ad, for it is true that he disobeyed. But we have all gone
astray— all gone astray. And he hath heen so patient! Thou
knowest, boy, that D. .'id hatli it in le of the Psalms that
* like as a father pitietii his children, so the Lord pitieth them
that fear him.' And I know he must pity my poor patient lad."

"What was it that ..iOl. didst say about a fa.Uer pitying
his children.?" said Stephen ea.-^erly. " Wilt thou say it U. ;ne
again.'"

The old man repeated the ■■ se; *hen said somewhat
severely, " Dost thou not know ^ S tures, boy? .t thy
age i could repeat the Psalms and jch the Law."

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS. 73

"Then thou art a heathen!" said the old man. slightly
drawing away from the boy as they walked. " But thou art
a good lad-I know it by thy face-and I am not stiff-necked
like the rabbis. It hath been reported that he whom we
seek doth teach and heal ail who come to him, even publicans
and smners."

" 'Tis a true saying," said Stephen eagerly. " I was a cripple
and he healed me. He did not ask me if I knew the Psalms
or the Law, nor whether I went to the synagogue. I did not
even ask him to heal me-I was asking for ar.other. And dost
thmk that the Father who pitieth the children, is the Father
he speaks of so often?"

"Assuredly." was the answer. "He is also the God of
Abraham, of Isaac, and of Jacob."

" And who are they.?" asked Stephen innocently.

"Oh, b -.thou art indeed a heathen!" groaned the old
man. " 1 . must go to the synagogue and hear the readin<r
of the Scriptures." *

" 1 will do that," said Stephen earnestly. "Thou knowest
that 1 could not till lately, for 1 was helpless."

At this point in the conversation, they saw that the arer^'
had again placed their burden upon the ground and\v(..'
straightening themselves to ease their aching backs The
old man came forward and stood beside the bed, lookina fondly
down upon the wasted feature? of its occupant. '

"Doth the shaking of thy bed as they walk hurt thee mv
poor boy?" ^

• !i

tw-IP*

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

"Nay, father; the j. .ting hurteth me not as doth my sinful
soul. He cannot heal me, I ar.i so sinful, so wicked! 'Twere
better to take me back and let me die in peace."

" Dost thou see me.?" said Stephen in his clear, boyish
treble, kneeling beside the bed. " I am a heathen— thy father
hath said so— yet he healed me. He healed Philip, the blind
man whose eyes had been burned out— for what, I know not
—but he was a sinner. He hath healed multitudes, and none
of them priests or rabbis, or Pharisees. He will heal thee.
Thou dost not know him. He pitieth his children like the
Father in heaven, and he loveth them as never a mother
loved. Thou wilt see it, when thou lookest into his face."

The young man fixed his great, mournful eyes upon
Stephen, and when he had finished speaking, he said:
" Who art thou? Art thou an angt) ?"
And indeed, in the moonlight the lad seemed not unlike one,
as he kneeled by the bed, his hands clasped in his earnestness.
"Nay, nay, lad! He is not an angel," spoke the cracked
voice of the old man. " He is only a little heathen lad, as he
saith truly, for he knoweth not Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.
But for all that he is a good lad. Thou must cheer up, for it is
true that the Nazarene hath healed greater sinners than even
thou, my poor child. Here, take a swallow of this wine; it
will strengthen thy heart." So saying, he produced a small
gurglet of wine from his girdle, and proceeded to administer
some of it to the invalid.

Then all set forth as before. They were not far from
Simon's house now, and as they approached, it became evident
that a great crowd was assembled there, for they met numer-

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS. 75

ous groups coming away, many of them complaining loudly
that they could neither hear nor see.

The old man looked anxious. '< I fear that we cannot see
hi^m, now that we have come so far. My poor boy! My poor

"Do not let him hear thee," besought Stephen, layinrr a
warnmg hand on the old man's arm. '< Let us go on; we shall
surely find him."

Their progress was now necessarily slow, as the crowd grew
denser. Finally the four set their burden down for a moment
to rest, and that they might consider the situation.

"What hast thou there?" said a passer-by; «a sick man?"
And he looked over their shoulders at the bed. " I wil/ tell
thee something; 'twere better to take him home again, and as
quickly as possible, for he will not be healed to-nicrht Th-
Master hath healed no one. He is in an upper chamber in
S.mon s house, and is talking with the rabbis, priests and
Pharisees, who have come from all parts, even from Jerusalem
to hear him. Then, even if this were not so, the house and
every inch of the garden is packed solid with people; not one
of you couldst step inside the gate, to say nothing of that bed '"
And without waiting to see whether or not his advice was
taken, the speaker went his way.

"Humph! 'Tis a sorry case!" muttered one of the men
who had been helping to bear the bed. " 1 had not bargained
to carry this burden both ways."

_ " O Benjamin, my son ! my son !" wailed the old man, wring-
ing his hands helplessly, " 1 fear that we must take thee home
unhealed!"

tin"

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

n m

"Stay!" said Stephen, again coming forward. "I know
tliat we can find him if we try. Titus, wilt thou go, and see
if there be not some way to get in.?"

Titus was gone in a moment, and in a moment more was
back again, flushed and panting with exertion. " There is a
stairway leading to the "roof, not far from the garden gate,"
said he. "I had thought if we could take him up there, we
might perhaps tear up a piece of the tiling, and lower him into
the chamber where the Master is talking. I can repair the
breach in an hour, if one of you will help me."

"Oh, Titus!" exclaimed Stephen, "'tis a good thought; let
us go at once."

" Hold! " said the old man. " What right have we to injure
our neighbor's roof.? Then, too, would it not be a bold and
unseemly thing thus to disturb the Master, more especially if
he be discoursing to so many learned men.? God knoweth
that I heartily desire the healing of my son, but 1 like not thy
plan, young man; it savoreth of unlawfulness."

" Oh, father!" said the sick man, with a sob, " if thou takest
me back now, I fpel that I can never come again. This hath
so wrought on me, that 1 feel the springs of life failing within
me. I pray thee try any way that will take me to him!"

The old miTn hesitated.

Stephen whispered in his ear, " Let us try it, 1 beg of
thee!"

Well, well! Do thy best; 1 care not. I will recompense
Simon for the roof. It will do no harm to make the attempt."
Lifting their burden, the four once again slowly advanced
through the crowd, Stephen and the old man going in front

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TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS. 77

this time, and makin? a way for them. At len-th the crate-
way was reached, then came a strug-rie through the d'^ense
throng that filled every available nook inside the aarden
Fmally the stairway was gained, and in a moment more they
were safely on the roof,-where, strangely enough, no one
from below had hitherto come. Now, however, divinina the
purpose of the party with the sick man, the crowd began to
surge up the narrow stairway.

" What art thou purposing, good friends?" called out one.

" To tear up the roof, and lower this sick man into the pres-
ence of the Master," answered Titus.

"Then this is the spot to remove the tiling. He is in the
chamber beneath. I will help thee," said the man who had
spoken first.

hi another moment a dozen willing hands were at work
A very short time sufficed to make a considerable aperture-
and through it they quickly made preparations to lower the'
bed containing the sick man. As they lifted him, he mur-
mured m a low tone: "Where is he-the lad ti;at was
healed?"

" I am here," said Stephen, coming forward. " Have cour-
age!" he whispered. " 1 saw him through the hole in the roof
He will heal thee."

" Now then-take a firm hold!" said Titus; and graspina the
ropes which someone had brought, and which were fi'^mly
knotted to the bed, the sick man was lowered carefully and
steadily through the opening till his bed rested on the floor at
the feet of Jesus. There was profound sjience for a moment-
those ui the chamber below startled by the stran^-e interrup-

n I

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS,

!| '

ticn, and those crowded about the opening in the roof breath-
less with anxiety for the succe:,s of their bold plan.

The Master had been sitting as he talked, but now he arose,
and, stooping over, gazed intently into the face of the sick
man. In those pale, pinched features and appealing eyes he
read his whole pathetic story. Laying his hand upon the suf-
ferer tenderly, he said:

" My child, thy sins are forgiven thee."

Instantly there arose a murmur in the room. The words
"He blasphemeth!" "God alone can forgive sins!" "God
will smite him!" came from one and other of the bearded and
turbaned rabbis who sat about. Then the Master raised him-
self up, and looking upon them with the eye of omnipotence,
said slowly:

"What reason ye in your hearts.? Whether is easier, to
say, Thy sins be forgiven thee; or to say, Rise uo and walk.?
But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power upon
earth to forgive sins,"— turning to the sick man-" 1 say unto
thee, Arise, and take up thy couch, and go into thine house."

" And immediately he rose up before them all, and took up
that whereon he lay, and departed to his own house, glorify-
ing God. And they were all amazed, and they glorified God,
and were filled with fear, saying. We have seen strange
things to-day."

wli
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TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

CHAPTER X.

HE worshipful Jairus, rulsr
of the synagogue in
Capernaum, had just com-
pleted a careful inspection of
the various gardens connected
with his house. He was a rich
man, as well, as ruler of the
synagogue; it was therefore
meet that all things connected with
his domain should be done decently
J and in order. He had been making
remarks to this effect to the servant
who filled the office of chief steward in
his house, and the man still stood in his
presence.

" 1 am not pleased with the condition
of the gardens connected with the inner
house, Benoni," he said, somewhat
severely. " 1 saw many withered leaves
on the turf, and the shrubbery hath not received the attention
which it should have. It is evident that there is fault some-
where."

"If I might venture the suggestion, mist noble master, I
would say that it would be well to employ a lother servant. 1
can buy, if it please thee, r slave, or for a small sum hire some

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

■ H I

lad from the city. For truly the new vineyard doth require
much time and attention, and I have therefore been unable to
look to the home gardens as 1 ought. It is not that the ser-
vants are idle, or that T'-and here the man made a low obei-
sance— "am neglectful of my duty."

"Thou hast answered well, Benoni; the matter of the new
vmeyard had entirely escaped my memory. Seek out now a
lad, and let it be his duty to attend the gardens, that I be not
further vexed with the matter. And stay!-be cautious in the
matter of selecting the lad, for the little Ruth doth often play
in the gardens, albeit attended by her maidens, and 1 would
not that the boy be rough or discourteous."

" Thy commands, most worshipful master, shall be obeyed;
and 1 thank thee for thy goodness and forbearance to me in the
matter."

So saying, the steward withdrew and at once made his way
to the nearest market-place. Here he proceeded to make
known the fact that he, Benoni, would engage the services of
a likely lad in behalf of his master, the worshipful Jaiius. A
number of lads who were idling about the place eaaerly
gathered about him, but the keen eye of the chief steward
quickly pronounced them, one and all, unfit for the position

Now it happened that Stephen and Titus were at one'of
the numerous stalls, bartering some fish which they had taken
that morning before dawn, Titus as usual managing the busi-
ness, while Stephen stood by, looking dreamily at the lively
scene about him; the world, to which he had been so lon^r a
stranger, presenting to his happy eyes a constantly shiftrng
kaleidoscope of wonderful pictures. This morning he saw at

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

once the imposing fiaure of Benoni as he entered the market-
place, and followed his subsequent proceedings with an inter-
ested eye. Just as Titus had finished the bargaining to his
satisfaction, he caught an excited whisper from Stephen.

"That man yonder looketh for a lad to hire! Why dost
thou not speak with him.? Then mightest thou be safe from
father and the men."

Titus looked in the direction to which Stephen pointed, then
said: " The man is a Jew. I care not to hire with him."

"Nay, Titus, now thou speakest foolishly. Come! Wilt
thou not seek him?"

In another moment the two lads were in the presence of
Benoni.

"I heard thee, that thou didst inquire for a lad," said
Stephen hesitatingly, seeing that Titus did not intend to speak.

" Thou didst hear aright," answered Benoni with condescen-
sion. " But thou art too young. 1 require a sturdy lad, m(5ro
like to this one,"— glancing, as he spoke, r . itus— "to work
in the gardens of the house of the worshipfu .airus."

"What work wouldst thou require?" asked Titus, who had
always had a curiosity to see the interior of one of the great
houses, so jealously guarded by their high walls from' the
public eye, and which had often been described to the two lads
by Prisca.

" The work will be, as ! said, in and about the gardens-
keeping the graveled paths in orde^-. and the turf free from
weeds and unsightly ru '-'ish."

" 1 think I -could do t.^a:, ' ,aid Titus in a low voice— for he
inwardly revolted at tv idea of service of any kind.

J *■;

■!(•""'""

Tf**"

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

:^! \

Benoni, however, convinced that his hesitation was due
solely to modesty, and withal satisfied with the young man's
general appearance, after a few more perfunctory questions,
quickly concluded the bargain, stipulating that Titus should
accompany him at once, and be introduced to his new work.

When Stephen was left alone, he stood gazing after the
two, and a desolate feeling of loneliness almost overcame him
for a moment. He suddenly realized that all the deliahtful
hours on the lake with Titus, all the long rambles, and the
pleasant evening talks on the housetop, were over.

"Why did I ever see that man!" he murmured disconso-
lately, feeling a strong desire to run after Titus and beg of him
to stay.

But in a moment he straightened himself. " I am frlad he
hath gone," he thought. " It will be best. As for meri must
learn to manage the boat alone: I am nearly fifteen now and
strdng enough. Mother hath n^^i of me; I must work for
her." And he started out for home at a brisk pace.

Meanwhile Titus and Benoni had reached the house of
Jairus. It was an imposing structure occupying a whole square
presenting to the street on all sides facades of massive rough-
hewn stone, windowless on the ground .loor, and broken only
by a single entrance on each of its sides. From the second
story projected certain high and wide windows filled with curi-
ous lattice-work.

Being admitted to one of the strongly-guarded portals
Titus and his guide found themselves in an arched passage-
way of stone; quickly traversing this, they proceeded into" a
courtyard, which Titus-having in mind the description of

\r'i

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

Prisca— perceived to be the court of the household; for here
was the great central fountain, there were the stalls for the
horses and mules, and on the opposite side the appurtenances
for various kinds of work connected with the establishment—
the bake ovens, and the grindstones in noisy operation, being
most in evidence. It was an animated scene, and everyone
seemed to be in the highest spirits, for the men were laughing
and talking as they groomed the horses, while the maiden^s
about the fountain chattered as gayly and incessantly as the
sparrows which were nesting in the cornice.

As the two entered, all eyes were turned at once upon
them, and one damsel, bolder than the rest, came forward, and
dropping a courtesy, said saucily:

"And here is our good Benoni, looking none the worse for
the interview which he had with the master this morning!
My mistress bade me tell thee that she wished to speak wit'h
thee immediately upon thy return. Didst thou know that we
are going up to Jerusalem, the next week but one? 'Tis the
feast. 1 am glad, for my part; Jerusalem at feast times hath
agayety which refresheth my spirit after our dull Capernaum."
"Peace, maiden!" said Benoni severely. "Thy tongue
hath the sound of waters which run and never cease. But
now wilt thou see that this lad hath some refreshment, while 1
wait upon our worshipful lady.? 1 will return for thee shortly "
—turning to Titus— "that thou mayst get to thy work without
delay."

The damsel, who was called Marissa, laughed, mockingly,
"It would be well, good Benoni, ere our worshipful master
return from the synagogue. At least fourscore more of dried

! I

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Sl ,

i ii

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THC CROSS.

leaves have fallen from the shrubbery since thou didst go forth
this morning."

But Benoni was already gone, apparently not hearing the
last remark. '^

As soon as he had disappeared, the girl turned to Titus, and
with an approving glance at his stalwart figure and handsome
race, said:

"Whenever the master hath occasion to chide our good
Benon. yonder, he doth mend the matter by hiring a new ser-
vant. 1 heard everything that passed between them this
mornmg from the terrace where I was sewing. Thou art to
pick off the yellow leaves from the shrubs; it will require all
thy strength!" And again the girl laughed teasingly.

''Nay, 1 am to attend to the graveled walks, and care for the
turf, said Titus with an angry flush.

" Do not be angry," said the girl. " Thou shouldst be glad
in these times to have fallen into such a comfortable place-
plenty would give their eyes for it. And Benoni is a good
master, as thou wilt see, albeit a little stupid. But come let
me give thee to eat, as I was bidden."

Before many days had passed Titus found that Marissa had
spoken truly. His work was light and pleasant, and his
beauty-loving eyes were never tired of looking at the wonders
about him. On several occasions he had seen the mistress of
the house in her sweeping robes traversing the terraces; and
every day the little Ruth, a pretty child of twelve, played
about the shady garden paths. But best of all, Benoni, finding
hat he was skillful with boat and net, allowed him to supply
the household with fish. Stephen invariably joined him in

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS. 85

Zl"°"'' ""' *' '"" '''"' "'""y ^^'■S'"f"l hours

o„e"IfThL"'"'''*'"'^-'''" "" ™^"y days," said Titus on

one of hese occasions, as he pushed off the boat from the

hore. "Benoni toid me this morning that the famity start

. -morrow for Jerusalem. Many of the household wi, a, "d

u i *, , ""■ ' "■■''''' "^^ ^'"■''^" «" I'-'aJ the mule or.
wh,ch the httle Ruth is to ride. iHarissa saith that in Jerusa"

Sara, our mistress, ,s sister to the wife of Caiaphas."

wistfllThni" 7u T"'""' *'■"«'•" ^""' S"^P''^". ^""'ewhat
wistfuMy, but without a trace of envy in his face. " I am »lad

that I have learned to manage the boat now; I shall 1 o ,t
every day whilst thou art away." ®

"Thou dost very well with the boat, lad," said Titus som-
what patronizingly. -. But thou must beware of sq al'- L
come so suddenly, that cooler heads and stronge arl; n
thme have gone down ere this. Do not go out untes the
wmd sets ,n the right quarter, as I showed thee,- T ne e
alone a. „„m. The hour of the dawning will 'be best I

"The iVlaster and his disciples, with many ot! ,-, hav-
already set forth for Jerusalem," said Stephen pel' ,;
Then after a pause he continued: "Thou knowes. h m "1'
Benjamm, who was palsied, and whom the Master h euso

dTstf as ■ ' ''* "°* '°'*""^" "=• ' "'^' ^™ -' -ny
me wi h hi'm t ;:"\'^°"""e "°™ 'he synagogue, and he took

read 1th ».' '""''• "^ '^ g^ng to teach me how to
read m the Hebrew Scriptures, so that I shall no longer be a

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iii

I','

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

heathen, as his father did call me. He hath given me a roll
that he himself did study when he was my age —albeit he
studied lying helpless on his bed. And he taught me a Psalm.
Shall I say it to thee.?"

Titus assented, and the lad repeated to the musical accom-
paniment of the water rippling along the side of the boat:

" ' The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh
me to lie down in green pastures; he leadeth me beside the
still waters. He restoreth my soul; he leadeth me in the paths
of righteousness, for his name's -ike. Yea, though 1 walk
through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil:
for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine
enemies; thou ar..,;ntest my head with oil; my cup runneth
over. Surely /, ■; ■ In,, ss and mercy shall follow me all the days
of my life; anu I wii; dwell in the house of the Lord forever.'
" is it not beauiiful !" said Stephen softly. " And there are
many more. I shall learn them all. Benjamin saith that I
must learn the Law also. But that I like not so well; there are
so many ' thou shalt not's,' that it quite bewildereth me to hear
them read; and I know not how 1 could observe them all."

" Thou wilt be a Pharisee yet," said Titus, half bitterly. " I
fancy I see thee now with a long robe, and a broad phylactery
bound to thy brow."

" Nay," answered' Stephen simply. " I would rather follow
the Master. He wears no phylactery; and 1 am sure that he
is not a Pharisee."

"Dost thou know, Stephen," said Titus presently, after the
two had lowered their net, '< that that psalm, as thou callest it,

TITUS : A COAIRADE OF THE CROSS.

soundeth stran'rely familiar in mine earsjike somethin^r I have
heard many times, and for^rotten. And the house of Jairus-
•t IS certam that I have seen something? like it-in a dream "

"Thou hast heard the mother tell of the • house in
whicn she lived as a maiden; 'tis of that thou dreamed

my I itus." '

"';ut the psalm!" persisted Titus. '< Did the mother sin^r it
m tins way.?" And he began a low metrical chantin. of the
words which Stephen had recited. But he broke off Abruptly
af er a few lines, sayinir: « it hath gone from me now," then
relapsed into .ilence, which he seemed not disposed to break-
tbough Stephen talked gayly on, apparently unmindful of the'
...^t that he had a very indifferent listener.

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23 WEST MAIN STREET

WEBSTER, N.Y. 14580

(716) 873-4503

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TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

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CHAPTER XI.

%y^^ HOUGH the dawn was yet so young that a
^ few stars l:n,;Tered in the heavens, the great

courtyard in the house of Jairus was a scene of
the liveliest confusion. Servants were flying
hither and thither, and men shouting to each
other as they led forth the mules and prepared to
load them with the baggage of various sorts which
was already lying in great piles on the pavement. In the
midst of the court stood Benoni, directing one here, cautioning
another there, and keeping a calm and dignified mien, as was
his wont on all occasions, however trying. As the beasts of
burden were loaded, one after another was led out into the
street and stood waiting in a long line.

" And now bring forth the master's horse, together with the
mules, and quickly! For time doth fly, and we must accom-
plish the first stage of our journey before the heat of the day
begins."

At this command there issued from his stall an Arabian
horse, showing in his full, dark eyes, small head, and slender,
clean-cut limbs, all his pride of birth. After the Arabian came
a number of large, sleek mules, with luxurious accoutrements,
each led by a groom. Benoni had already left the courtyard
for the purpose of informing his master that all was ready for
a start, and he now hurried forth again, followed in more
leisurely fashion by Jairus, his wife— the noble Sara— and their

TITUS : A CO.MRADE OF THE CROSS. 89

little daughter. Ruth, with several maids laden with wraps of
various kinds.

"I am so glad that we are going at last!" cried Ruth jov-
ously, bounding ahead of the rest of the party. "And tlie're
IS my dear old Bekah! Ah, I believe you know me, you dar-
ling!"-caressing, as she spoke, the nose of a snow-white
mule, which stood a little apart from the others.

"Wait, darling," said the soft voice of her mother. "Let
Benoni lift thee to the saddle."

But the strong arm of Titus had already snugly ensconced
the little damsel in her place.

" Titus can do it quite as well as Benoni, as thou seest, my
mother," said Ruth gayly. " 1 am so glad that thou art to lead
my Bekah!" she continued, patting th(a glossy neck of the
animal, " because I can talk to thee as we journey. Last time
I had old Asa, and he was too deaf to hear me, even had I
cared to talk with him."

Titus showed his white teeth in an appreciative smile, but
said nothing. Truth to tell he stood somewhat in awe of the
imperious little maiden, who, with her .hazel eyes and golden
hair, seemed a being set apart from the rest of the world

At last all were settled to their satisfaction, and one after
another moved slowly out from the great gateway, now thrown
wide open. Benoni, wiping his heated face, paused for a
few last words of warning and advice to the under-^eward
who was to be left in charge of the house during his absence-
then he too jumped into his saddle and clattered down the
street after the procession, which was already well under way

Ruth rode behind her mother, and was followed by Marissa-

ir»«*^-

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

While Jairus, with a number of heavily-armed men-servants,
traveled in front. The beasts of burden, laden with rich
olferinrrs for the feast, and with the tents, cooking utensils, and
other things needful for the journey, each under the charge of
a man, brought up the rear.

The city was already stirring, early as it was, and the pro-
cession, as it wound through the streets and squares, attracted
much attention. The wife of Jairus drew her veil more closely
about her face, and bade her daughter do the same. The little
maiden obeyed, but her bright eyes peeping out from the
gauzy folds were intent on losing nothing of the lively scenes
about.

Presently, to his surprise, Titus spied Stephen, his fishing
nets on his shoulder, waiting, like the others, to see the cavaN
cade pass. On beholding Titus, his face flushed with pleasure,
and holding up a string of fish, that their size and number
might be appreciated, he shouted:

"Farewell; and may the gods protect thee!"

" Who is that lad ?" asked Ruth curiously. "And why doth
he say, ' May the gods. protect thee,' as if there were several ?"

"Tis m;' brother Stephen," answered Titus. "And he
saith ' gods,' because he hath been accustomed to hear it from
his youth. We are of Greek parentage."

"Nay, thou lookest not like a Greek; I have seen many or
them," said the little girl. "Thou art a Jew, by thy features;
thou art like someone 1 know, but who it is 1 cannot remember!
But tell me of this brother— Stephen, thou didst call him."

" I can tell thee something wonderful about him," said Titus.
"He was a cripple, and could not walk; and the Healer— Jesus

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS. 91

-cured him, so that he is, as thou didst see. a stroncr kid
albeit of a delicate and beautifi:: countenance-at least," added
Titus modesuy, " he doth so seem to me."

" Yes, of course," said Ruth somewhat impatient at the
digression. " But was he really healed, so that he can walk.?
Tell me all about it— every\,hin<r."

Thus commanded, Titus told, with as much of detail as he
was able, the story of the baby and Stephen, Ruth interrupt-
ing him at intervals with questions.

"Ah!" said she, drawing a long breath of pleasure, when
he had finished, •' I lik. that story! And the best of it is, that
It IS all true. I too have seen the Nazarene," she continued
thoughtfully after a pause. " I think him the most wonderful
the most beautiful, the best man in the whole world • I
have longed to talk with him, but my mothe r says that we
cannot, for he is always surrounded with a great crowd of poor
people." ^

They had now passed out of the city and had begun the
ascent of one of the high steep hills which shut in on every
side the beautirul little lake of Gennesaret, as it was sometimes
called. The way became difficult and stony, so that I itus was
kept busy picking the best places for the mule. The wife of
Jairus glanced back several times to see that her darling was
safe, and that the lad was sufficiently careful, and every time
caught a, bright smile from the little girl.

"The precious one!" the mother murmured happily to her-
self. "She hath a smile like to the sunlight."

After a hard climb of about an hour, the top of the ascent
was reached, and all paused for a few moments to rest. The

■; i:

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CHOSS.

sun was up now, and the scene spread out before the tra-.elers
was one of marvelous beauty. Hundreds of feet beneath
them lay the silver expanse of the lake, studded w'th sails-
while on every side the hills, covered with luxuriant foliage'
and dotted with viliaires, rose higher and higher, till in the far
distance gleamed the snowy head of Mount Hermon.

The days that followed were full of delight to Titus To
his sturdy frame the easy stages of the journey caused no
fatigue, while tlie ever-changing scenery, the picturesque
evening encampments, and the growing friendliness of the
little Ruth, brought a happiness such as he had never known
before. All that had embittered his young life lay far behind
now, and his soul responded strongly to the new, sweet intl-i-
ences which surrounded him.

On the fourth day of the journey, it became evident that
they were approaching the Holy City, for the bands of pil-
gnms, together with flocks of sheep and oxen for sacrifice and
feasting-which they had met occasionally during the whole
course of their journey-became more and more frequent
Many of these pilgrim bands were singing while they marched
along, and fragments of their song fioated back on the wind
as they defiled through the narrow valleys:

''Our feet shall stand within thy gates, O Jerusalem;
whither the tribes go up, the tribes of the Lord, to give thanks-
giving unto the name of the Lord. Pray for the peace of
Jerusalem; they shall prosper that love thee; peace be within
thy walls, and prosperity within thy palaces."

TITUS ; A COMRADE OF THE CHOSS.

CHAPTER XII.

for lookinfif liirhtly on

thinjT hath passed, for

this man doth continually

blaspheme the name of the

Almighty."

The speaker was Caia-
phas. As he spoke, he was
striding impatiently
up and down one of
the roof terraces of
his house, while
Jairus, his guest,
half reclined upon a
marble bench near
at hand. The two
sisters sat at a little
distance, placidly happy in each other's
society, and Ruth, leaning both elbows upon
the parapet, gazed with wide, childish eyes
upon the wonderful panorama of the Holy
City spread out beneath her.

"Thou didst hear this Jesus to-day, when

healin.nf th. • '^V""' "^""'^'"'"'^ concerning the so-called
healing of the impotent man at Bethesda. 'God judgeth no
man, he said, ' but hath committed all judgment unto the Son '

^^^i

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

— meaninrr himself. And further, • That all men should honor
the Son even as they honor the Father.' ♦ Even as'!— didst
note the words.? Then he went on to speak of John— who is
justly imprisoned, for I believe that he was beside himself.
' There is another,' he said, 'that beareth witness of me, and I
know that the witness which he witnesseth of me is true.' "

" He said those words," replied Jairus, who had listened in
silence up to this point, " but there was another thing also
which he said, and which I have not forgotten; 'twas this:
' But 1 have greater witness than that of John; for the works
which the Father hath given me to finish, the same works
that 1 do, bear witness of me, that the Father hath sent me.'
Thou dost in thine accusation of the man singularly overlook
the works of healing, assuredly great and marvelous, which
he continueth daily to perform. What canst thou say to such
a cure as that of the man who, as thou knowest, on reputable
testimony, had lain on his bed helpless for thirty and eight
years? With a word. the Nazarene restored him perfectly."

" Aye, but mark the word!" said Caiaphas with hea:. " It
was the Sabbath day, and he said unto him, ' Rise, take up thy
bed and walk.' In that he both healed the man, and bade him
take up and carry his bed, on the Sabbath day, he hath done
that which is unlawful. He is therefore guilty of blasphemy
and also of profaning the law of the Most High; and thou
knowest the penalty of such misdeeds," he added darkly.

Neither of the men noticed that the little Ruth had turned
about and was listening with an anxious face to the discus-
sion, until she suddenly startled them with. the question:
" Dost thou speak of Jesus of Nazareth, Uncle Joseph?"

TITUS : A CO.VIRADE OF THE CROSS. 95

"Why dost thou ask, my child?" said Cainphas gently
pa..n^.n^h,s.a,.to,ayK.^

on tlie Sabhath day, which is God's day?"

" The child speaxeth well," said Jairus proudly. " I wouid
have asked thee that question myself."

"And I should have answered thee that his pretensions are
^s . have sa.d before, blasphemous. We know that this man
oml ' '"'^'^"" carpenter-nay, more; he is himself a

ommon carpenter, and hath followed the trade, working, with
h.. hands unt.l lately; his home is in Nazareth; and can any
good thmjr come out of Nazareth?" ^

" But, Uncle Joseph," persisted the little damsel, her face
ush.n,, and her eyes fillin, with tears, " how could h
he wonderful things that he doeth, unless God be with
h.m 1 love him!" she continued passionately, without w i^

•• My darlinff." said her mother softly, "it is not seemly for
a babe ke thee to discuss this matter with thine uncle, mo e
-peca ly as he doth hold the sacred office of hi,h priest in
God s holy temple. Thou must come with me now, that thou
mayst ffrow calm before the time to sleep."

So saying, the two women went away with the child, who
was now weepin-^ softly. As the sound of their trailincr aar-
ments ceased upon the stairway. Jairus turned to Cai;phas
who was gazin. silently towards the temple, whose walls anj

ill

(PHi*-

TITUS : A CO.MRADE OF THE CROSS.

towers glowed with rosy and golden reflections in the last rays
of the setting sun. and said solemnly:

"To my mind, my brother, this is a time of great responsi-
bility to the heads of the nation. If the child spake truly— as
I myself believe— 'twere assuredly an awful thing to reject
God's anointed."

Caiaphas remained silent for a moment, then he turned
slowly and looked at Jairus.

" Thou art a good man, and my brother; it were well for us
not to talk of this matter further, lest it make between us a
breach which cannot be healed. I will tell thee plainly, once
and for all, that my mind is made u.p about this man. He must
die; for 'twere better for one to die than for many to perish."
But even as he spoke the prophetic words, he shuddered
slightly and glanced up towards the heavens.

In the meantime, in one of the great shadowy chambers of
the palace, the two women, having dismissed the maid, were
putting the little Ruth to bed. The child, kneeling at her
mother's knee, had repeated her psalms and prayers; and now
she was resting snugly in the stately bed, with itscarven posts
and drapery and coverlid of purple, broidered with gold.

" And now, my mother, wilt thou tell me a story.?" she
pleaded. "Tell me of David and Goliath."

And the mother told the story, so familiar from her youth
that she repeated it in the language of the Scripture itself.

"I have always liked that story," said Ruth enthusiastically
when she had finished. " How I should like to have seen
David when he stood up on the body of the giant Philistine,
and grasped his great sword to cut off his wicked old head."

TITL'S : A CO.MRADE OF THE CROSS.

She paused a moment, as if picturing the scene to herself,
then she added eagerly: " 1 think, my mother, that David must
have looked exactly like my Titus."

" How canst thou say that, my child? Thou knowest that
thy Titus, as thou callest him, is a Greek."

"Nay," said the little girl positively, " I told him that could
not be, for he hath the face of a Jew. Hath he not, now-
with his dark skin, his eagle nose, and those great, flashing
eyes of his? He hath a countenance like-yes, I know it now
-like to my Uncle Joseph's!"-half rising, as she spoke, in
her excitement,

" My child, my child!" said the mother, gently but firmly,
"thou must lie down and sleep now! Thy brain teemeth with
wild fancies. I will sit outside on the terrace near thee, but
thou must indeed be calm."

" Who is the lad that the child speaketh of ?" questioned the
lady Anna carelessly, as the two settled themselves upon the
terrace outside the chamber.

" He is a lad from Capernaum, whom our good Benoni hath
recently employed to assist about the gardens. Mv impetuous
little daughter hath taken a great liking to him, an.: ;..ked that
he might lead her mule upon the journey. Indeed, he seemeth
to be a kind and careful lad, albeit of a very common Greek
family. My Ruth hath had so much excitement of late, that
her tongue doth run overmuch; 1 must see to it that she hath
more quiet, and some wholesome employment."

" I have seen the lad," said Anna musingly. '< He hath a
noble countenance, and strangely enough of the purest Jewish
type. Thou art assured that he is of Greek parentage?"

TITUS • A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

Pi!

" It is certain," replied her sister, " for I made careful inquiry
throuirh Benoni himself. His father is called Dumachus."

Then half «uessin^r her sister's thoughts, and wishinjr to
divert them from so painful a channel, she said: " But now that
we are alone, and not likely to he interrupted, I will tell thee
how I heard the Nazarene teach the people. I had l<jnj,r been
anxious to know more fully what those teachinjrs wereffor as
thou knowest, reports oftentimes untrue reach us from careless
listeners. So, hearin^ij that he had jfone forth from the city
towards Tiberias, my husband and myself, attended only by
Benoni, set forth, all three ridin,ir upon mules in true peasant
fashion, for we desired not to attract attention. After riding for
some distance we fell in with numerous people, all journeying
in the same direction. Every one was talking of the wonder"
ful works of healing which he had seen, and many who had
been healed were journeying also, and were pointed out to me
by Benoni, who hath taken a wondrous interest in this man.
We heard finally, that he was to be found at Hattin. Thou'
wilt remember the place-'tis about seven miles from Caper-
naum; there is there a small village at the foot of the double
peaked hill, called sometimes the Horns of Hattin. The hill
can be distinctly seen from our house in Capernaum.

"Upon arriving at this place, we found assembled there a
great multitude of people, of all nationalities, and of all grades
of society. We quickly learned that the Nazarene was" even
then upon the top of the mountain, and with him those men
who are already known as his disciples. Presently we saw
that he was descending the slope, surrounded by his followers;
instantly there pressed forward those who had brought their

TITUS ; A CO.MHADE OF THE CROSS. 99

Sick to be lK-:.led. We were not near enouirh to see wlnt
manner of sickness there was amonjr them, nor exactly what
ransp.red; but from the excitement of the crowJ, and the
thanks-rivinirs and hallelujahs which burst forth, it was evi-
dent that all were healed.

''Meanwhile we edjred our way amon^r the thrones, and
finally succeeded in ^rettin^r within hearinjr distance of the
Nazarene. He had seated himself now upon a threat rock; and
as he grazed around on the assembled multitudes, the look
upon his face was such that I could not but think of the irreit
an.rels of our holy Scriptures. Presently he betjan to speak
I would that I could tell thee each word of that discourse for
It was wondrous by reason of its wisdom. If he had been'the
law-ff,ver Moses, himself, fresh from Sinai, he could not have
spoken with .i^reater authority.

" He be-an with blessinirs. I do not remember them all
but one stands out in my memory above the others: ' Blessed
are they that mourn; for they shall be comforted.' He said
also, that the meek, the merciful, and the pure in heart, were
blessed; and all those who should be abused and persecuted
for the sake of the Christ. ' Rejoice and exult,' he said, look-
in:r at his disciples, 'when men shall falsely reproach you, and
say every wicked word ajrainst you, on account of me. Your
reward shall be great in the heavens, for so did they perse-
cute the prophets of old. Ye are the li,rht of the world. A
city builded upon a mountain cannot be hid; and when one
lighteth a lamp, they do not pr.t it under a corn measure, but
upon a lamp stand, and it giveth light to all who are in the

100

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

house. Thus let your light shine; that men may see it and
praise your Father which dwelleth in the heavens.'

" Then, my sister, I noticed that he said he was not come
to abolish the Law or the Prophets, but to fulfill them both;
and that not the least thing should pass away, till all had
come to pass. And further, that unless our righteousness
should be greater than that of the Scribes and Pharisees, we
could never enter into the kingdom of the heavens. Then he
spoke of the Law in detail, and showed that in his opinion the
person who was angry without reason, was as liable to juda-
ment as a murderer; that if a person was engaged in a quarrel
with another, he could net acceptably offer sacrifices to God
Moreover, that one should not attempt to resist an evil doer,
but rather shame him with generosity; that we must love, not
alone our friends, but even those who hated us and tried to do
us harm; and that we must pray for wicked oerso^.s, for so
might we be children of our Father in the heavens. For his
sun riseth on those who are evil, as well as on those who are
good; his rain also cometh down on the ground of tiie bad
man, as well as on that of the good. And that if we love and
are courteous to our equals only, we are no better than the
lowest. 1-1 short, we must try to be perfect, even as our
Father in heaven is perfect.

" Be careful, he said, not to be charitable in order that your
friends may see and praise you for it; if ye give to the poor in
this way, God will not reward you. Giving done quietly, and
without parade, shall be rewarded openly. He also condemned
making a show of prayer; and thou knowest, my sister, how
our Scribes and Pharisees sometimes pray even on the street—

TiTUS: A COMRADE OF THE CROSS. 101

I hny. wondered how they could realise what they were doin-r
n-s they s and on the corners and pray so loudly. The Na^:

the lookers-on, and that truly they will get nothing else for
^,e,r prayers. Mf thou woulds, he heard and an'vered of

doo ■ Ant'; ''? '"""*"' '" y°"' """ '"■''"""-■' *i'h closed
door. And do not suppose that the Father demandeth Ion.

prayers, or ,s pleased with empty repetitions; the h^-th n

ray ,n t at way. God is your Father; he knowet . ,1

h «s ye have need of, before ye ask him.' He doth not wait

for tho.se who, l,ke the heathen, never pray aritrht. Yet ,nus
we pray, for so it pleaseth the Father. TiL he .said: ■ If,:

a "ctmed":: T '" °" ^'"'"' ""^ ••"' '" '^^ »e-ens,
.«nct,f,ed be thy name. Let thy kingdom come, let thy win

be done as ,n the heavens so also upon the earth. The
needed bread give us to-day. Forgive us our debts, as also we
fo g,ve our debtors. And lead us not into temptation bul
dehver us from the evil one. For thine is the kingdom .an"
the power, and the glory, to the ages. Amen • "

" Tis .a wondrous pr.iyer," said Anna, her eyes glowin r in
he .sem.-darkness. " But his teachings are strangely differ'^,"
rom what hath sounded in our ears since Moses led fortlil
people of Israel from Ejrypt."

" But hath it not the^ound of truth? It seemeth so to me "
answered her sster "Ir-mf^ii+u .. '■^ mc,

if A . J *^" ^^^^ '^°''^' 'f thou wilt hear

It. Art thou not weary?"

"Nay, tell me more-all that thou canst," said Anna.
1 fee. that, at best, I can only give fragments, but I will

102

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

j 1

try. He counseled that we should not care overmuch for the
treasures of this earth; for sucu things are liable to be eaten
with moths, or rusted away, else stolen. Thou knowest how
true that is, my sister?"

" It is indeed true," murmured Anna with a sigh, thinking
how her chiefest treasure had been stolen from her.

" Lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither
moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break
through nor steal," continued Sara softly. " And do not be
over anxious about the future, for your Father in heaven
knoweth that ye have need of food, and clothing, and shelter;
and if he clothe the wild lilies, which toil not at all, more
gorget)usIy than even the great Solomon in all his glory, shall
he forget his children? The first thing and the most impor-
tant, is to seek after God and his righteousness. If we do
this, all else that is needful shall be given us by the hand that
never faileth. Do not criticise others, for often we ourselves
are full of faults more evil; we must be judged even as we
judge our fellow-men. God will give more abundantly to his
children, when they ask him, than earthly parents to their
children! So that if we desire anything we must ask it of our
heavenly Father. We shall surely receive it, if it be for our
good. To keep perfectly the Law and the Prophets— note this
especially, my sister, for it is what we are always laboring to
perform—' it is only necessary to do unto others, such things
as we would wish them to do to us.'

" His closing words were astonishing, for in them he plainly
declared himself to be the Heaven-sent One. ' Not every one
who shall say to me. Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom

TITUS: A COMRADE OF THE CROSS. 103

Of the heavens; but he who doeth the will of my Father who
•s -n heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Did we not
cast out devils in thy name, and in thy name perform many
works of power? Then shall I say to them, I never knew you
Depart from me, ye who work lawlessness. Every one there-
fore who heareth these words of mine, and liveth them, is like
a prudent man, who built his house upon a rock. Down came
the ram; the streams rose; and the strong winds blew; but
the house was safe for it was builded upon a rock. But he
who heareth these words and heedeth them not, is like a man
who foolishly built his house upon the sand. Down came the
ram; the streams rose; and the tempest raged and beat upon
that house; and it fell, and great was the fall of it '

"When he had finished these sayings a great murmur of
amazement arose from that vast multitude. Truly, my sister
It was a marvelous discourse, though I can but dimly and
imperfectly repeat it to thee. I would that thou couldst hear
the man for thyself."

"1 would that I might," said the lady Anna; then she
added hes.tatmgly, « But thou knowest how my husband
thmketh, and our father also."

" Yes, I know," assented her sister simply.

After that the two were silent, absorbed 'each in her own
thoughts, while within the child slept peacefully

' I', I.
I., t

I r'

104

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

CHAPTER XIII.

'HISTLING softly to himself as
he worked, Titus was fasten-
ing up some long tendrils of a
climbing vine; it was a dif-
ficult job, and when he had
finished, his face was quite
hot and flushed. He therefore
walked slowly across the turf
to the fountain, and, seating
himself on the marble ledge
which surrounded it, began
plunging his hand and arm
into its cool depths, withdraw-
ing it at intervals to wet his curly head.

"Ah, that cold water, how good it is!" he murmured to
himself; then shaking his head vigorously to rid it of the
superfluous drops, he stood up, and looked about the garden
with great satisfaction. He had been hard at work since
early dawn ; and as his eyes wandered from the trim
shrubbery to the velvet turf, and then on to the masses of
brilliant flowers and graceful festoons of vines, he saw nothing
to criticise.

" I see nothing amiss," he said aloud. " But I know not
what Benoni will think; he hath the eye of an eagle for a trace
of disorder." Then catching sight of some bright-colored

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

105

Object on the ground under one of the marble benches, he
stooped and picked it up. It ^vas a ball, gayly striped with
blue, scarlet and yellow. As he turned it over and over in his
hands, he smiled and said, " I wonder where the little lady is
this morning. Ah, there is Marissa!"

The maid was passing rapidly through the garden, bearin^r
a pitcher m her hands. She stopped and turned, as Titus
called to her, and as he came near, he noticed that she was
unusually grave.

•' Here is a ball belonging to our little lady," he said. " Wilt
thou take care of it > She hath not been in the garden to
play this morning."

"She is ill," said Marissa soberly; "we have sent out for a
physician. I am going now for some hot water; do not keep
me."

Titus opened the door leading into the passage-way which
connected the two courtyards, and followed Marissa as she
hastened on with her pitcher.

" What aileth the little one.?" he asked, as she paused to
dip some water from a steaming cauldron.

"We know not. She hath fever and complaineth of pain
in her head. It hath not been well with her since our return
from Jerusalem."

" Where is the master.?" asked Titus.

"He is with the child," answered Marissa, "also her
mother, and old' Tabitha, who nursed th? mistress in her
infancy. She knoweth more about sickness than all the doc-
tors put together. Ugh! I dread to have them come near the
child with their loathly nostrums! When 1 had the fever, they

i: hi

I : ■.

,!!>"•<

106

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

Ill'

gave me the juice of scorpions mixed with wine. I swallowed
it not, but poured out each dose; I thought the medicine would
be better in the ground than I myself yet awhile." And she
hurried away with the steaming pitcher, leaving Titus to tell
the sad news of the little Ruth's illness to the other servants,
who had crowded around.

He left them as soon as possible, for their society was at
best distasteful to him, and now their dismal forebodings and
ominous waggings of the head filled him with a kind of dull

rage.

"The stupid rabble!" he muttered to himself, "they care
for nothing so much as to wag their chattering tongues! How
they peep and whisper, and run with every bit of news, as
doth a greedy chicken with a piece of bread."

He was wronging them, and in his heart he knew it, for
every one about the place loved the little lady, as she was
always called.

As he paced uneasily up and down, he saw that the door
of the passage-way leading to the street was standing open;
and presently, without exactly knowing why, he foun'd him-
self outside. Once there, he bent his steps toward the quarter
of the town where was the poor place he still called home

" 1 must see Stephen," he said to himself, as he hurried
along.

Meanwhile, in her chamber, which opened upon one of the
small inner courts of the house, the little Ruth was tossing
wearily upon her bed.

"Oh, mother, my head! my head!" she moaned.

And the mother watching by her side, saw with a sinking

TITUS : A CO.MRADE OF THE CROSS.

107

heart, the scarlet flush on the child's cheek, and her eyes
hourly growing more sunl<en and brilliant.

The good old Tahitha was wringing out linen cloths from
cold water, which she placed upon the sufferer's brow, while
at intervals she caused them to put the little feet into a basin
of hot water.

''We must keep the heat from the darling's head," she was
saying, with the wisdom born of good common sense and long
experience. " I have saved many a fever patient,* as thou
knowest, with water alone."

" Why doth not the physician come.?" said Jairus impa-
tiently. " I would be doing something for her, in the way of
medicament; the water is well enough, but for such a sickness
as this, medicine is assuredly needful."

Even as he spoke Marissa announced the physician, stand-
ing aside that he might enter before her.

A tall, heavily-bearded man, magnificently attired, swept
into the apartment, attended by a small, black slave bearing
the various appurtenances of his craft. He greetedMairus cere-
moniously; then, approaching the bedside of the child, he
looked at her, narrowing his eyes, pursing up his mouth, and
frowning deeply as he did so. Presently he put out his hand
and laid it upon the child's head, then hemmed loudly. The
little thing started, and hid her face in her mother's gown.
"She hath a burning heat!" said the great man finally, in a
deep, sonorous voice; then he rolled his eyes majestically at
Tabitha, as she was about to place a fresh cool bit of linen on
the child's burning forehead, and stretched forth his hand
forbiddingly.

108

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

)

"Woman!" he said sternly, "cease thy foolishness! Water
IS indeed good in health, but Ihou hast imperiled the child's
life by thy folly."

Tabitha turned her broad back upon him, and was heard to
mutter somethinrr unintelligible.

The physician now beckoned to his slave, and, taking from
him a small brazen vessel, he proceeded to mingle in it a num-
ber of dark liquids, together with a grayish white powder.
When h'e had finished, he again turned to his familiar, who
immeaiately produced from another receptacle a dead snake.
This the great man proceeded to skin. When he had finished
the operation, which he performed with marvelous deftness,
he again hemmed loudly, and said:

"Thou Shalt make of this snake-skin three portions; one
portion shall be bound upon the forehead of the child, and one
upon the sole of each foot. Also of the draught which 1 have
mingled, give her, at intervals of an hour, one great spoonful,
if it be the will of Jehovah, she will recover within seven
days. 1 shflll return again at the evening hour. And stay!"
—here again his eye sought Tabitha—" 'Twere better to re-
move yon contentious woman from the apartment." Then
bowing deeply, he was about to leave the room, when Jairus
stopped him with an imperious gesture.

"Good sir!" he demanded, "I would know what hath
entered into the potion which she is to swallow."

The physician frowned and shook his head, but finally said
majestically:

" 'Tis not our cusVm to reveal the secrets of our craft; but
for thee 1 will even make exception. Know, then, that the

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS. 109

draught-vvhich thou wilt find most wholesome-contnineth
first, the gall of a wild sow dissolved in vinegar; second, the
ashes of a wolf's skull mingled with the fat of a viper- and
lastly, and most important of all, a stone taken from the head
of a sea eel, caught at the time of the full moon. This stone
hath been powdered together with a portion of scorpion's le-rs
and hath been known to be efficacious when taken alone- b^ui
compounded as I have described, maketh a nostrum of 'such
rare virtue, that without doubt the patient will speedily
recover. Should she not recover, it will be because of tne foil-/
of yonder woman." So saying, and again bowing pro-
foundly, he swept from the chamber, followed by his slave
When he had finally gone, Tabitha came forward, and,'
throwmg herself upon her knees before her mistress, sobbed
out:

" Oh, send me not away! I will do anything, if only I may
remam. Surely I have not hurt the child-thou knowest that
he wet linen soothed her. And how can the skin of a snake
be better than cool, fresh water.?"

" Hush. Tabitha!" said her mistress, the tears running down
her cheeks. '<Thou shalt stay; indeed I could not do without
thee. But oh. my husband! what dost thou think of the
draught ? I cannot bear to give it to her. And that dreadful
slimy skin!"

"1 think this of it!" said Jairus fiercely, rising and seizin^
the skin and the brazen vessel, and tossing them both out o"f
the window. "If she must die, she shall die unpolluted with
such vileness! Go on with thy nursing. Tabitha, and in thine
own way. And do thou, Marissa. give orders to the porter not

TITUS : A COAIRADE OF THE CROSS.

iii '^ll"

to admit that man when he cometh at evening. Stay!— tell
him to give the fellow this golJ."

But now the little patient, either because of the fright and
agitation, or because of the profrress of the disease, began to
talk wildly. Now she fancied that she was in Jerusalem, and
wandered on incoherently of the processions, the temple, the
singing. Now she thought she was riding her mule, and
that Titus was gathering great bunches of wild-tlowers for her.
Presently she half raised herself in the bed, and shading her
eyes with her hand, cried out joyously:

" Oh, Titus! I see the Master! He is coming through the
meadow. See how the lilies bend, as his garments pass over
them! I shall speak with him at last!"

Then she fell back upon her pillow, her voice again sinking
into a low, incoherent murmur.

But like a flash of light came the thought of the great
Healer to the despairing mother. Rising, she crossed the room
to the window, before which stood her husband, his head
bowed upon his breast, and laying her hand upon his arm, she
half whispered: "My husband, in our terror we had forgotten
the Nazarene; could he not heal our child ?"

Jairus started and turned toward his wife, a gleam of some-
thing like hope in his eyes.

"True!" he said. "We had most strangely forgotten. I
believe that he, and he alone, can help us now. 1 will go at
once and make inquiries concerning him. Benoni is even now
waiting outside for orders."

Titus was sitting motionless at the side of the fountain, his

some-

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TITUS : A COAIFMDE OF THE CROSS. 1 1 1

eyes fixed jpon the door of the inner court. He had heen
there for h-airs, waitinrr f(,r s^me one to come out. When
therefore, Benoni issue<l forth, prepared to do his master's bid-
dinir, Titus sprnnir forward to meet him.
" How doth ()L.r little lady fare.'" he asked.
" Alas! 1 fcui diat she doth not mend. She will die, unless
she hath help, and that duickly. I am jroin^r forth to seek the
Nazarene. We hope -"

" He is not here," said Titus in a tone of dull despair.
" This morninff, when first 1 heard of her sickness, I sought
Stephen, my brother-for he always knoweth the best thing
to do-and he said at once, ' Let us seek the Master.' We
sought far and wide, and found at last that he had taken
shippmg yesterday to go to the other side of the lake It
may be that he hath gone away into Samaria, or even back
to Jerusalem. I know not how we could find him."

Benoni looked grave. But at length he said:' « I must go
forth, even as I was bidden; it may be that he hath returned
since the morning."

" Go if thou wilt," said Titus wearily. " But Stephen was
to keep watch, and bring me word should the Master return-
he will not fail to do so." '

" I pIso must ijo," said Renoni.

But he retur u^d within an hour, and his grave countenance
showed that he had failed in his mission.

112

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

CHAPTER XIV.

LOWLY the hours drajrged by. Night
came on, and, as slowly, wore away.
Still Titus watched and waited for some
word from Stephen, while within the
sick-room the watchers, with despairing
hearts, saw the steady and relentless
approach of the dread destroyer.
The child lay motionless now, her eyes half opened and
glassy; but for the sound of her difficult breathing which
filled the chamber, they would have thought her dead. The
mother had thrown herself on her knees at the foot of the bed,
her face hidden in the draperies. She had been praying at
intervals all night, the words of the IVlaster in her thoughts:
"God is more willing to give good gifts to his children, than
are ye to give good things to your children." And now her
heart was full of bitterness. " I have prayed, and God hath
not heard me. My child is dying. The Master hath healed
scores of worthless beggars, but now that my pure, innocent
child is suffering, he will not come. If he were the Christ,
would he not know of this?" And over and over again the
cruel thoughts repeated themselves, till her brain was half
crazed with pain.

At length she arose, and swiftly approaching her husband,
who was sitting motionless watching the child's face, she
said :

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

113

" Wilt thou not go forth and search for the Nazarene? Do
not wait! It may be that he h-th come even now."

Jairus rose, and without a word left the room. It was
morning now, and the bright sunlight struck painfully on his
throbbing eyeballs.

Outside the faithful Benoni was pacing up and down on the
terrace. At the sound of a step he sprang forward, but the
question died on his lips as he saw his master's face.

" Has anything been heard of the Nazarene ?" asked Jairus.

" Nothing, my lord," answered the man mournfully. " I
have been out to inquire many times, and the lad Titus also."

" I am going now. It may be that I shall find him," said
Jairus slowly. " Do thou remain here within call. I will take
the lad with me."

Titus had just made one of his fruitless excursions into the
street, and was about to return sorrowfully for the twentieth
time, when he heard a noise as of light, rapid footfalls on the
stone pavement. Some one was coming! He stood still and
listened. In another' moment Stephen approached the gate,
running at full speed. When he beheld Titus, he cried out
joyfully: "He has come!"

Titus did not stop to hear more, but, calling to Stephen to
wait, ran back through the court into the garden, and was
about to knock boldly on the door which led to the inner court,
when it suddenly opened and Jairus himself came out.

"The Healer hath come!" cried Titus excitedly, without
waiting for his master to speak. "My brother hath but just
brought word. He is waiting outside and ran tell us v\ here
the Nazarene is to be found. Shall I go for thee.?"

.^.^T-fCdT-

114

TITUS : A COA\RADE OF THE CROSS.

■ I m\\ go for myself; but thou

"No, lad," said Jairus,
mayst attend me."

The two passed quickly into the street, wliere they found
Stephen waiting.

"Come this way!" he said. "He hath but just landed
outside the city, and was approaching the eastern gate when
I heard of it."

Ail three hurried on in silence, Jairus slightly in advance
of the two lads, as though he would outstrip them. Never had
the way seemed so long. Streets, squares, alleys; mansions
and hovels, amphitheatre and synagogue— they were all alike
to him now. He had neither eaten nor slept for more than
twenty-four hours; and things loomed up huge and horrible
through a mist of pain. At last they reached the eastern
gate.

"Hath the Nazarene passed this way yet.?" he asked the
gate-keeper hoarsely.

"No," said the man. "He hath stopped yonder to talk
to the people, who already throng him, though he hati: but
just landed." He pointed eastward as he spoke, and the three
hurried on toward a little rise in the ground, which was
crowded with people.

They presently reached the outskirts of this throng and
could see the face of the Master himself, as he stood upon an
elevation in the midst.

"In God's name, let me pass, good people!" cried Jairus.
" I must speak with the Master!"

The crowd gave way respectfully, for many of them recog-
nized the speaker, and all saw that he was in deep trouble.

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CHOCS.

115

And now he has fallen at the feet of the Master, and is cryin-
out: "

"Jesus, thou Son of God, I beseech thee to hear me' My
little daughter lieth at the point of death; I pray thee come
and lay thy hands upon her, that she may be healed; and she
shall live."

Immediately Jesus put forth his hand and raised him up,
and they began to move toward the city gate; and with them!
all the multituoe, which was constantly increasing, as one and
another, scenting some new excitement, joined it.

Their progress was necessarily slow now, for the crowd was
surging on all sides of them. Presently they stopped
altogether, for Jesus was standing still in the midst. Turnincr
he said:

" Who touched me?"

At first no one answered, for all were astonished at the
question. Then one of his disciples, Peter by name, said:

"Master, the multitude throng thee and press thee; and
sayest thou, Who touched me?"

But Jesus answered: "Somebody hath touched me; for
I perceive that power hath gone out of me."'

As he spoke, he fixed his eyes upon a poorly-dressed
woman who stood near. When she saw that he was looking
at her, she trembled, and coming forward, fell down before
him, and sobbed out:

" Oh, Master! I beseech thee to forgive me! I have been in
misery for twelve years by reaoon of an incurable disease, and
have suffered many things of many physicians. I have spent
all that I had, and was nothing bettered, but always made

! ^:l

-yji^'r- ^-^T-\:t'K^W*Wi II '4l'">)(^.ig3

116

TITUS : A COAIRADE OF THE CROSS.

:. :: :; Vi

-1. ■ "(Ml

worse. And I thought in my heart, that if I could but touch
the hem of thy garment, I should be healed. And it was so,
for no sooner had I touched, than 1 was made whole."

When Jesus heard this, he put forth his hand and raised
her up, saying:

"Daughter, be of good courage; thy faith hath made thee
whole. Go in peace, and be healed of thy scourge."

While he was yet speaking to the woman, Jairus, who had
been waiting in an agony of impatience, saw Benoni approach-
ing. And Benoni, when he spied his master, rent his clothes
with a loud cry of grief.

" Alas! my lord," he said, " thy daughter is dead. Trouble
not the Master any further."

The face of Jairus blanched to a ghastly pallor when he
heard these words, and he would have fallen to the earth, had
it not been for the quick hand of the Master.

" Be not afraid !" he said to him gently. "Only believe!"
Then turning, he spoke authoritatively to the crowd, forbid-
ding them to come any further.

Again they went on; Jesus with three of his disciples and
Jairus; the two lads, with Benoni, following them at a little
distance.

"What can the Healer do now to help?" muttered Titu3
bitterly. "But for the woman, we might have been in time."

"The little one breathed her last just after the master left
the house," said Benoni sadly.

" But didst thou hear what the Master said to the father of
the child?" said Stephen. "'Fear not. Only believe'! He
will do something to help— thou wilt see."

VITUS: A CO.MRADE OF THE CROSS. Il7

" But what can he do, now?" repeated Titus.

" He can help them to bear the will of our Father which is
in heaven," said Stephen softly.

By this time they had come to the house of Jairus; and
enterinnr ,n after the others, they found the court of the house-
hold almost deserted. Passing through into the garden court
they could hear the piercing wails of the women from thJ
death-chamber, for the door leading to the inner court stood
wide open. The garden itself was filled with excited women
wailmg and gesticulating, while the men with rent garments
were weeping aloud, and strewing ashes upon their heads and
beards in token of their grief.

Within sat the mother by the bedside of her dead child-
for she had resisted the well-meant efforts of her women to
take her away-her wide, tearless eyes fixed upon the waxen
beauty of the face upon the pillow. Amid all the wailing and
tumult she was stonily silent.

"Soon she will be forever hidden from me," she was
thinking. " I must not weep now, while she is sleepino so
quietly," *

Presently she became dimly aware of another presence in
the room, and of a deep authoritative voice. What was it
that he was saying?-" Why make ve this ado, and weep?
The damsel is not dead, but sleepeth."

And the strident wailing ceased; and there was a blessed
stillness in her tortured ears.

Not dead ! Sleeping! She started to her feet, and leaning
over the little form, listened breathlessly. Alas! she slept
indeed, but it was the chill and pulseless sleep which would

>lt t? Ul

118

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

t ;. ;

know no waking. She raised her eyes, dim with anguish, to
his face.

" Thou knowest that she is dead, Master," were the words
which shaped themselves on her lips; but they were never
uttered. Something in those fathomless eyes forbade them.

And standing by the bedside, Jesus took the little icy hand
in his, and said:

"My child, I say unto thee, arise!"

And at the words, lo! a rosy flush swept over the marble
beauty of the face, the long lashes trembled, and the eyes—
but lately closed for their long, long sleep— flashed wide open,
bright with joy and health. They fixed themselves upon the
Master's face, and a smile slow and sweet dawned in their
starry depths.

" 'Tis thou at last!" she said. " I have beeadreaming of thee."

Who could describe the scene which followed!— the happi-
ness, the gratitude, the well-nigh delirious revulsion from the
depths of a grief so profound, to the heights of a joy so
transcendent.

The child gazed at her parents in solemn wonder, as they
fell at the Master's feet, covering them with tears and kisses.
She had slept; she had dreamed; she had awakened. But
what meant this strange weeping, this tumult in the garden
outside? Was she dreaming still ?

The Master seeing her look, and divining her thoughts,
spoke to the mother, his words recalling her instantly to herself:

"The child is an hungered; wilt thou not give her to eat.?"

Then charging them straitly that they should not noise the
thing abroad, he left them alone with their joy.

TITUS: A CO.MRADE OF THH CIJOSS. HQ

CHAPTER XV.

.N one of the green and pleasant
solitudes near the head of the
lake, a group of men, strangely
at variance with the peaceful beauty
of their surroundings, sat, or sprawled
^, -— ^^ fu" length, around a small fire.

There were ten or a dozen of them, great hulking fellows, low-
browed, swarthy with wind and weather, and disfigured with
the scars of many a sinister combat. They were en^acred for
the moment in the peaceable occupation of broiling some fish
while on the grass near at hand lay several half emptied
wine-skins.

"And so the lad hath given thee the slip, Dumachus?

I were a pity; he hath the making of a bold fellow in him,"

said one of the men. leaning forward to heap fresh fuel on the

fire. " Wfiere didst thou get him? He is of no kin to thee."

" He is my son," said Dumachus sullenly.

" Come, come, now, comrade ! Why take the trouble to lie
to us about a trifle like that.? If thou hast stolen him from
some rich Jew, why not demand a ransom for his return?
Hen are plentier than gold nowadays."

Dumachus made no answer for a moment, then replied
sneeringly:

"And thou, my good friend, wouldst share the ^old
p^^rh-ps.?" '^ '

120

TITUS: A COA\RADR OF TIIH CROSS.

"That would 1!" sold the other, with a great laugh.
" Come, tell us the man's name."

" Fool !" hissed Dumachus. " If I had chosen to restore the
boy, as thou sayest, would I not have done it years ago.? I
love my revenge better than the yellowest gold ever coined.
He shall not escape me, and when the time is ripe I shall—"
Here he stopped abruptly, while so hideous an expression over-
spread his countenance that even his guilt-hardened compan-
ions stared at him in momentary wonder.

" I envy not the lad his future with such a guardian as thou
art," said the first speaker, shrugging his shoulders. " I
believe there is not another such brute in Galilee! Thou wilt
be crucified yet, my worshipful chief !"

But he had his hand on the haft of the short two-edged
knife in his belt, as he spoke, and Dumachus, who had started
up at the words, sank back again, muttering threats and curses
under his breath.

" Come!" said another. " Ha>>i- thou not had blood enough,
that thou must knife each other, now we are at rest.? Let us
eat!" And the speaker helped himself to one of the fish which
were sizzling on the coals.

The others followed his example, and soon all were eating
and drinking, the rude feast being enlivened with snatches of
coarse song, and bursts of coarser laughter. Presently one of
the men stopped, with a morsel half way to his mouth.
" Hist ! I hear some one coming!" he exclaimed.
Instantly all were on their feet; and one, creeping lightly
to the verge of a little declivity fringed with bushes, peered
out cautiously. In a moment he rc'airned.

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

121

"'Tis the Nazarene rabbi with his band; they have just
landed on the beach below."

"What can they be doing here, think you?" whispered
another. "Shall we-?" And he drew his glittering knife
with a significant gesture.

"No, fool!" snarled Dumachus. "They have no booty.
Besides," he added, " the man may be useful to us. Thou
knowest that he hath a great following already, and greater
every day. With him for king, we could make ourselves mas-
ters of the country. He hath magic powers; and could, from
the grass of the field, make swords enough to arm every man
who should join us. The Romans themselves fear him!"

"They say," said another, "that he hath nade a compact
with Beelzebub himself, and that is why he hath such marvel-
ous powers. I heard a rabbi from Jerusalem explaining the
matter to a multitude who were marveling because the Nazarene
had healed one of their number from a blind and deaf spirit."
" Well, for my part, I care not to whom he hath allied him-
self. I am ready for anything wherein is a prospect of plun-
der," exclaimed a third. " But what causeth the tumult which
I hear? Stay! I will see." And scrambling up a tall tree
which grew near, he presently called down to his companions
below: "'Tis a wondrous sight! There be thousands upon
thousands of men, with women and children, both riding upon
beasts, and walking,— arid all coming this way!"

"They are seeking the man yonder," said Dumachus,
jerking his thumb over his shoulder. " Now thou seest that I
spoke truly! Let us wait here, and see what shall follow.
To-day the time may be ripe for action."

122

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

t .'■

11ri|i

Even as he spoke, a man broke through the bushes near
at hand. He started back in dismay, when his eye fell
upon the savage group; but regaining his confidence in the
knowledge that the rest of his company was close at hand,
he advanced and called out in a loud voice:

" Have any of you knowledge of the whereabouts of the
man who is called Jesus of Nazareth?"

" I am he," said Dumachus mockingly, "and these be my
disciples. What dost thou require of us?"

The man stared; while the others burst into a great roar
of laughter at his discomfiture.

" The Nazarene is yonder on the hill !" said Dumachus
finally, seeing that he was about to run.

The man glanced upward, and then cried oul joyfully to
those below:

" He is here! Come this way!"

In a moment two— three— a dozen men had pushed through
the bushes, and with glad cries pressed up the hill. These
were quickly followed by an indiscriminate throng of men,
women, and children— all hurrying— pushing— struggling
upward. Dumachus and his men joined the multitude, shout-
ing lustily for the great Healer as they maliciously trampled
down some of the weaker ones in the throno-.

Meanwhile Jesus, with his chosen followers, was resting
quietly in a little nook of the mountain slope. Faint, and
exhausted with uninterrupted toil and excitement, they had
sought this peaceful solitude for a little time of rest. As the
first sound of the approaching multitude reached their ears,
Peter was on his feet in an instant, and springing to the top of

liiPlril

TITUS: A COAmADE OF THE CR0S3. 123

a hiffh rock, he shaded his eyes with his hand, and looked off
in the direction from which the noise came.

" What is it ? What seest thou?" cried half a dozen voices
anxiously.

Peter scrambled down from his lofty perch without reply-
ing, and approaching the Master, who sat a little apart from
the others, his eyes fixed peacefully on the wide landscape,
he said: ^

"Master, I see a great multitude approaching. They seek
thee. Shall we not escape them while yet there is time? We
can withdraw further up the mountain, or take to our boats
again."

Jesus made no answer, but rising, moved toward the ed-e
of the slope, and looked down. The noise was louder novv,
and floated up to him in a confused roaring like to the sound
of the sea. Already the bright colors of the moving masses
could be seen through the green foliage; in another moment
the throng would be upon them. He sighed deeply, and mur-
mured with a look of divine compassion:

" They are as sheep having no shepherd !"

" Master, thou art sorely in need of rest; wilt thou not
come?" again urged Peter.

But even a^ he spoke, the crest of the first wave of that
ocean of wretched humanity broke sobbing at their feet.

The hours that followed were crowded, as were always his
hours upon earth. Verily, " He had a work to perform, and
how was he straitened till he should perform it." He healed
those that had need of healing; after that he taught them
many things concerning the kingdom of God.

i^U ,

I r

124

TITUS : A COAmADE OF THE CHOSS.

And now the day was far spent, and the shadows were
Ien«:thenin.ir upon the mountains. Still the people lingered,
listenhig to his words, while only the fitful cry of a tired or
hun<rry child broke the hush.

The disciples, who had been holdintj a whispered consulta-
tion, now came to him; and one of them, who was called
Philip, said:

"Master, this is a desert place, and it is already late; wilt
thou not send the people away, that they may jjo into the
country lound about and buy themselves bread.' for they have
nothinsf to eat."

And he said: "Give ye them 'to eat."

"Two hundred pennyworth if bread would not be suffi-
cient, that everyone of them mijrht take a little. How then
can we give them to eat ?" answered Philip.

" How many loaves have ye ? Go and see," replied the
Master.

" 1 will ffo," said Andrew. Presently he returned. " There
is a lad here, which hath five barley loaves and two small
fishes; but what are they amonff so many!"

" Make the people to sit down on the grass by companies,"
was the answer.

I :»

But what of Dumachus and his fellows, on this memorable
afternoon? Having crowded themselves, by means of brute
force, into a place where they could both see and' hear to the
best advantage, they had stared with open mouths and many
a muttered oath, as the Master healed the sick and injured
which were brought unto him. But when he began to talk to

TITUS : A COMIMDE OF THE CROSS.

125

the pecple, one by one they had slipped away-save Gestas.
He, the day beinjr warm, and himself very comfortable as he
lounged back against a tree, had sunken into a doze, and from
a doze had passed into a heavy slumber; and as the Master
spake the words of eternal life, he sat with head sunken upon
his breast. His ears were heavy and he did not hear.

" What is the Master going to do now.?" was the question

which flew from mouth to mouth, when the multitude were

bidden by the disciples to sit down by hundreds, and by fifties.

Every eye was fastened upon him, as he took the five loaves

and the two fishes; and as he looked up to heaven and blessed

them, and began to break them into fragments to give to the

disciples for distribution, the wonder grew. Awe-stricken they

watched ! Behold ! under those gracious hands the loaves

multiplied themselves! Again, and yet again, and many times

over, the twelve returned to him for fresh supplies, till at last

all of the five thousand men, together with the women and

children, had been fully satisfied.

After ail had eaten, the Master gave command that ihe
remnants of the feast should be gathered up, that nothin<r
might be lost. And they took up of the fragments tha"t
remained, twelve baskets full.

Dumachus and his followers had eaten also.
"Thou art right," said one of them, who was called Gaius.
"This is the man for our king; if he can make for us barley
loaves and broiled fish, could he not give us honey and wine
in abundance, and other good things also.? Let us even now
crown him!"

And the Jews, moreover, which saw it, said, " This is, of a

4m li

126

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS,

truth, that prophet which should come into the world; for,
behold, he hath fed us in the wilderness, even as Moses fed
our fathers."

But he knew their thoughts; and directing his disciples to
get into the boat and go unto Bethsaida, which was on the
other side of the lake, he commanded the people that they
should depart quietly, and go each man to his own house.
Then he, himself, went alone up into the mountain to pray.

Now while some of the people obeyed him, and departed,
even as he had bidden them, many lingered, hoping that he
would presently come again into their midst, for they had
seen the disciples go away in the boat, and knew that he was
not with them. And as they waited, the wonder and excite-
ment grew apace, till at length Dumachus, seeing the temper
of their minds, sprang upon a lofty rock, and thus addressed
the throng:

" Galileans!" he shouted, " hear me! Thou hast seen how
this man hath been able to create before our very eyes, and
from nothing visible, an abundance of food for this great
multitude. If he is able to do this, think ye not that from the
grass of this place he could presently make swords enough to
arm every man of us? Let us make him our king! Then will
we sweep down from the mountains, gathering in the people
from every town, and city, and village. Nothing can stand
before us! The Romans shall flee! Their rich palaces shall
be a prey unto us! Hail to the Nazarene! Hail! Hail to the
Nazarene! Hail to the King!"

When the people heard this, there arose a mighty cry,
which rang out over the waters of the lake, and rolled back to

TITUS : A COAmADE OF THE CROSS. 127

the mountains, reverberating in thunderous echoes to the
very stars.

To a solitary figure, far above on the mountain heirrhts
^lat cry brought the old, subtle temptation of the wilderness!
The kmgdoms of the world and the glory of them! A'throne
-and not a cross! But the victory had been won, once and
forever. He saw, in the sure light of eternity, his earthly rcrd
and It led to Calvary. " '

"Now it was dark, and the ship was in the midst of the
sea, and he alone on the land. And the sea arose by reason
of a great wind that blew. And he saw them toiling in row-
ing; for the wmd was contrary; and about the fourth watch of
the night he cometh unto them walking upon the sea, and
would have passed them by. But when they saw him walking
upon the sea, they supposed it had been a spirit, and cried
out; for they all saw him and were troubled. And imme-
diately he spoke and said unto them. Be of good cheer- it is 1-
be not afraid. And Peter answered him and said. Lord, if i[
be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water. And he said
Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship he
walked upon the water to go to Jesus. But when he saw 'the
wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink he
cried, saying, Lord, save me! And immediately Jesus stretched
forth his hand and caught him, and said unto him. Oh, thou
of little faith! wherefore didst thou doubt.? And when they
were come into the ship, the wind ceased. Then they that
were in the ship came and worshiped him, saying. Of a truth
thou art the Son of God !"

128

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

CHAPTER -XVl.

TELL you that he is not to be found

upon the mountain." The speaker

i>-,y./,\\\^-^ ^ "^^^ Dumachus, and he was address-

( 1 1 ./T^j M ^"S ^ motley crowd of Galileans,

" My men know every inch of the
region hereabouts, and they have
made thorough search."

" There was no boat, so that he
could have gotten away by the lake,"
said another. "He must have gone
over the mountain, and descended
upon the other side; in that case we
cannot find him, for the present. It may be that he will stop
in the villages; 'tis his wont."

" Let us go back to Capernaum, for it is there his disciples
dwell; he will be there sooner or later," suggested a third.

And seeing drawn up on the beach below, some great
barges from Tiberias, which had been driven out of their
course by the storm of the night before, as many as were able
crowded into them, and a few hours later landed in the vil-
lage of Capernaum.

As they made their way up into the city, they perceived
that there was a great noise and confusion, people hurrying in
crowds through the narrow streets, or gathered in de'nse
throngs in the market-places.

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

129

" What is the ado, nei.frhbors ?" shouted Dumachus, as they
paused near one of these knuts of people. " We have just
landed, and are seeking the miracle-worker; dost know his
whereabouts ? "

Two or three had turned at the sound of his voice, and
now one answered eagerly: « The Nazarene is here. He came
this morning, and hath wrought many signs and wonders in
our midst. For as he passed through the villages of the plain,
people brought out their sick and laid them in the streets that
they might touch the border of his garments; and as many as
touched were made whole. Afterward he came to Caper-
naum, and the whole country-side hath followed him thither.
Is not this man he that should save Israel ?"

" He can assuredly work wonders; and why not to-dav
wonders greater than any we have yet seen?" answered Du-
machus, cunn ngly. " Let us seek him and see if he will not
presently give us some sign that shall be greater than the
healing of these sick folk. Let him give us an abundance of
gold and treasure; and let him take these fine houses and
lands from the rich, and give them to us, who are his servants.
Then shall we delight ourselves in rivers of wine; and eat,
and drink, and satisfy ourselves with pleasures."

" If he be the Messiah, he will do all this, and much more,"
said the man. " It hath been promised us by the prophets.
Surely the time hath come for Israel to claim her King; and
confusion of face shall be to all heathen who would rule over
our nation!"

"Amen! and Amen!" cried they that heard him; and with
a common impulse, all began to run in the direction of the

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130

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

I III

iii^

synagogue, for it was one of the holy days of the week,
"We shall doublless find him there!" they said, as they
hurried along. "Let us hasten, that we may speak with
him!"

As they approached the place of worship, the excitement
grew more and more intense; it was almost impossible to move
in the dense throng. The synagogue was already filled to its
utmost capacity, though the hour for service had not yet come
—Scribes and Pharisees, Sadducees and Doctors of the Law,
publicans, fishermen and laborers, with women and children
—and every rongue employed with the one theme, Jesus of
Nazareth

"Heiscoming! i see him! Make room!" arose from one and
another of the multitude outside, together with a vast uneasy
murmur of sound.

Dumachus haJ succeeded in elbowing himself to a place
just outside the door of the synagogue through which the
Master must pass to enter; and now, when he saw him ascend-
ing the steps with his disciples, he thrust himself forward
rudely, saying, " Rabbi, when earnest thou hither, and how.?
There was no boat for thee to cross by."

jcsus looked at him; then turning, he glanced at the mul-
titude. Greed, vulgar curiosity, mean self-interest, ambition,
cruelty, hatred, unbelief— all this might have been seen by anv
keen-eyed observer; but how, think you, looked the multi-
tude to the Reader of hearts.?

Then he spoke slowly, decisively: "Verily, verily, I say
unto you. Ye seek me, not because ye perceived the signs;
but because ye did eat of the loaves and were filled. Strive

If I !i

TITUS : A COA\RADE OF THE CROSS. . 131

not for the bread which perisheth, but for that bread which
shall abide unto life eternal, which the Son of man shall give
to you; for him hath God the Father sealed."

Then from out of the throng came another voice— a clear
young voice-and the question was one which the speaker
had been pondering in his heart for months: "What shall we
do, that we might work the works of God ?"

And the Master saw the face of the questioner among the
smister faces which surrounded it, like a star in the darkness
of night; he saw and knew it for his own. And looking
steadfastly into the clear eyes lifted to his, he answered"-
"This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he
hath sent"

" What sign showest thou, men, " broke in the brutal voice
of Dumachus, "that we may see, and believe thee.? What
dost thou work.?"

And a turbaned rabbi, who stood near, added cunningly:
"Our fathers did eat manna in the desert; as it is written? he
gave them bread from heaven to eat."

The Master made answer: " Of a truth I tell you that Moses
gave you not bread from heaven. But my Father giveth you
now the true bread from heaven; for the bread of God is he
which cometn down from heaven, and giveth life unto
the world."

"Like the benediction after prayer" came again the clear
tones of the boy's voice: " Lord, evermore give us this bread'"

Then the Master passed into the sanctuary, and the solemn
hush within proclaimed that the service had begun.

In obedience to the imperative commands and (gestures of

I IN

132

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

those in authority, the crowd now drew bacl<, somewhat, from
the entrance and approaches lo the synagogue; and as they
did so, a clamor of voices brol<e out.

"How doth he say that he came down from heaven?"
demanded one. "We know who he is; he is Jesus the son of
Joseph, from Nazareth yonder."

" He came down from heaven no more than I did," cnod
another. " I am a silversmith; and he is a carpenter, as 1 hap-
pen to know."

"Now are ye wise, good people!" said a smooth-tongued
emissary of the Sanhedrim. " This man hath not ceased to
blaspheme God, in that he maketh himself equal with God;
and as for coming down from heaven, he hath a devl and is
mad."

" If he be not mad," one answered, " he at least is not the
Messiah, as we hoped; for he hath not the ways of a king."

" 'Twere an evil heresy to so suppose him," said the rabbi
a-jain. "Thou shouldst have studied the Law and the
Prophets, and have listened to the words of those wiser than
thou art. This fellow is dangerous to the people, in that he is
in league with the prince of darkness, and doth continually
work iniquity."

"I can bear it no longer!" rang out a clear voice. " Thou
liest, and that foully, when thou sayest such things of the
Nazarene I"

Every one started and turned toward the speaker. "Have
thy say, lad !" shouted two or three, delighted with the fresh
excitement. "Now shalt thou stand here and answer the
worthy rabbi." And a dozen hands lifted the boy to the top

TITUS : A COAIRADE OF THE CROSS. 133

He stood for a moment abashed; then the words of the
rabb. coming back to him, he again flushed red in his boyish
indignation. ^

''Thou sayest that he hath a devil," he cried. " Can a
devil do such works as doth this man? For thou knowest
that he hath healed the sick and helpless; he hath opened the
eyes of the blind; he hath cleansed the lepers; andeven
raised the dead to life! He hath done good, and not evil, to
all of us. And how canst thou say that he worketh iniquity?"
He doth blaspheme God; for he declareth that he is the
Son of God. and hath come down from heaven." answered the
rabb. angrily. "Cease thy prating, foolish boy, ere I have
thee arrested for disturbing the peace!"

"Nay. good master! Let the lad have his say. as thou hast
had thine; we will answer for him!" cried half a dozen at once
Thou knowest him not." said the boy. " He came down
from heaven; and he worketh even as he is biddei. by the
hather. who dwells on high."

" Then let him give us a sign, and he shall be our kinrri"
shouted a man in the outskirts of the crowd.

fhlTu H'.Tl ^''"" ^°" ''^"' '" abundance? I am one of
them! Behold. I was a cripple, and he healed me with a word
so that I am as straight and strong as any of you "

"Who art thou?" cried a rough voice. " By all the gods' I
beueve it is my own boy, Stephen! Here, let me come near
that I may make sure." And the man began elbowin. his
way toward the lad.

:■!: .■■.'.

" ' ij ' ';iikM;'j>»m ! «.'-.,-IJI« i ilJ. I I !,.».] ij llwiB

134

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

The boy had grown deathly pale; he stood irresolute for a
moment, then jumped down r'rom the wall, and advanced
through the crowd, which opened to let him pass.

"Thou art my boy, Stephen! And straight and strong!
Nay, but I can scarce believe it!" said Dumachus, grasping the
lad by the arm. " Now, by all the powers of Olympus! 1
will make a man of thee; for 1 'like thy spirit ! Come along
with me."

They walked along for a moment in silence; then Duma-
chus broke out with a savage oath: "Why dost thou not
speak? Art thou not glad to see thy father? Thy mother
hath taught thee to hate me; arid 1 cared not as long as thou
wert a helpless cripple. But now thou shalt know that thou
hast a father, and must obey him."

" My mother did not teach me to hate thee," said Stephen
in a low voice.

" Nay, thou dost whine like a woman! Speak up, as thou
didst but just now to that purse-proud rabbi; t'nou didst answer
him boldly. And so the Nazarene healed thee, did he? Tell
me how it was."

Stephen's face lighted up again at the mention of the
Master, and he poured forth his story eagerly, almost forgetting
his listener for the moment.

" So that was the way of it !" said Dumachus, running his
fingers through his shaggy locks. " Now the Nazarene, if he
would do that for thee, will do more; dost thou not think it?"

" Oh, yes," cried Stephen joyfully, remembering the look
in the Master's eyes, as he answered him from the synagogue
steps.

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS. 135

. "Then thou shalt ask him for gold, Stephen lad; and we
will buy us a vineyard and a house, and live like the Romans."

" I shn M In '' '"■^' ^''''" '-''' ^^^P'^^"' hesitatingly.

I should not like to ask him for gold."

♦'He can make it. boy. Did I not see him make out of five

a d T, "h '"°r ^'" '"'"' '''' ^"°"-^^ *° ^^'"^ ^'- thou-
sand.? He hath made a compact with the foul fiend, and he
helpeth him to do these wonders."

Stephen started back in horror, and fixed his eyes on his

" Cannot talk with me!" said Dumachus mockingly. " And
how wilt thou help thyself, my fine fellow.? But now shalt
thou tell me where 1 can find Titus." And his face dark n
ominously. '< Answer! Dost thou know where he is?"

u It ' '^"°'^ "^^''^ ^" is-but-I shall not tell thee."
What! roared Dumachus, grasping the boy by the shoul-
der so roughly that he almost lost his balance. " Dost thou
dare to defy me!-thine own father'"

"Father!" said Stephen, fixing his steady dark eyes on the
mans face, ", would gladly render. thee my obelnce, bu
when T tus came back after being with thee and the me^, he
told me that thou didst compel him to take part in horr ble

anThl'" u ''°" ''''' '*" ' ''''' ^^-^- "^ - ^^^enow
and hath an honest employment."

"An honest employment, hath he!" broke in Dumachus

tied "" tZ ''T' '''" ^"''^"'^' ^'^^ ^ --^- '-K' '-
It. .• Ir ^''^ ' ""'PP'"' ""^ "''^ thou art recovered
by the diabolical arts of yonder fellow from Nazareth. But'

136

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

listen!— if thou dost not presently tell me where Titus is to be
found, I will do that to thee which will put thee beyond cure!
Aye! look about ' .c- as thou wilt, thou canst not escape me!"

Stephen had cast a furtive look around; and realized, with
terror, that his father had been so directing their steps during
the conversation, that they were now in a lonely spot outside
the city walls.

"Wilt thou tell me?" continued the man, suddenly drop-
ping his threatening tone. "Then will we be friends and
comrades. I swear it. Thou art no better than a baby; but
thou shu!<- go with me, and I will make of thee a man. Now
what thinkest thou of this .?" and' he drew from under his tunic
a gold chain of fine Etruscan workmanship. " This shall be
thine, and many other things as well; for am I not chief, and
art not thou mine only son .'"

"Thine only son!" echoed Stephen in surprise. "Is not
Titus—"

"Tis none of thy business, boy, what Titus is to me. He
is nothing to thee. But the.e is no time for this folly. Where
—is— Titus.?"

Stephen hesitated. "What dost thou purpose concerning
him?" he asked.

"My purpose concerns thee not," answered Dumachus.
Then fixing his eyes on the boy, he continued slowly, and
with savage emphasis, "Thou hast need of a scourging; I will,
therefore, scourge thee. Then if thou art not purged of thine
obstinate folly, I will break each bone of thy body, and leave
thee here for the wild dogs to take care of."

Stephen was as colorless as death, but he said not a word.

TITUS : A COMFMDE OF THE CROSS. 137

The man proceeded to bind him securely to a small tree which
grew near, then cuttin.ir a heav^y stick, he began to strip it of
Its foliage With gicat delibc ation.

Titus was returning from the hill farm, whither he had
been sent with a message by Benoni. He was striding briskly
along, stopping now and then to add a choice blossom to a
great sheaf of wild-flowers, which he had gathered for the
little Ruth.

"There are some wild roses-the first I have seen," he said
to himself, scrambling down a litii^ bank covered with short
grass. " I must have them." But as he reached out his hand
to gather the flowers, he heard a sound which caused him to
start back and listen. It was a low, wailing cry, and seemed
to come from a thicket of trees close by. As he came nearer
the cry was repeated, accompanied by the sound of a heavy
blow, and the words-" Oh, father! have mercy!" were sobbed
out in a voice which Titus knew. He clenched his fist sav-
agely, and peering through the branches, saw a sight that
fairly froze the blood in his veins.

For an instant he was tempted to dash forward; but sturdy
as he was, he could not hope to match his boyish strength with
the savage giant yonder. Another blow, and yet another,
while the innocent victim wailed aloud in his agony. Titus
stooped, and picking up a large, round stone which lay at his
feet, hurled it with all the strength and precision of which he
was master. It struck Dumachus just behind the ear, and he
fell forward with a crash to the earth. To dash through the
bushes and cut the thongs which bound Stephen, was the

138

TITUS : A COMHADE OF THE CI^OSS.

work of a moment only; then he turned to look at the fallen
Dumachus.

"Oh, Titus! have you killed him?" cried Stephen trem-
ulously, the tears runninjj down his wnite cheeks.

•' Killed him? No. 1 only wish 1 had— the vile brute! He
is merely stunned, but I will keep him till we can escape."

So saying, he quickly and skilfully bound the prostrate
m.an with the leathern thonfrs which he had just taken from
Stephen. " Come along now!" he said roughly, for his blood
was still boiling with passion. "How camest thou into the
hands of that devil ?"

Stephen quickly told him all that had occurred.
"So he would have killed thee!" said Titus fiercely, when
he had finished.

"No! No!" answered Stephen. "He could never have
killed me; he only meant to frighten me."

" Thou dost not know him, boy, as 1 do," answered Titus.
" Hark ! Dost thou hear that ?"

They paused for a moment, and heard the distant sound of
frantic yells and curses.

" Now we must run for it !" said Titus, " For he hath the
strength of ten men, when he is in a rage like that."

And the two broke into a pace which soon brought them
to the city gate. Once safely inside, Titus turned to Stephen.
" Thou must take mother and get thee away for awhile. He
must not find thee at home to-night. And stay! Thou wilt
need money. I have my wages; take this and go— go
quickly." And he thrust a small purse into Stephen's hand as
he hurried away.

TITUS : A CO.MIMDE OF THE CROSS.

139

CHAPTER XVII.

E have very little to-day so far,"
said the child; "only a few
farthiiifTs." And he rattled the
coins in a small brass cup, and
cried out to a passer-by: "Wilt thou
not have pity on a blind man?— No, he
hath jTone by without even lookin.tr."
"Well, child," said the blind man wearily,
" thou knowest that there are so many of us
beggars in Jerusalem."
" But not born blind," insisted the child in a tone . pride.
The two were sitting in one of the beautiful porches of the
temple; assuredly a pleasant spot, for the pillared portico shel-
tered them from the sun, and the breezes blew softly in this
lofty place, when the heat in the city below was well-nigh
unbearable.

Day after day they came there, the man and the tiny child
with his dark curls blowing about his eyes. Early in the
morning they waited for the temple gates to open. Once
admitted, they sat all day under the shadow of the portico; at
noon sharing the scanty meal of bread and olives which the
man brought in his wallet, and at night trudging wearily home
with the earnings of the day.

To the blind man the temple was home, and he loved it.
The child had told him, over and over, of the wonderful great

140

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

Stones of pure, white marble of which it was built; of its courts
shining with gold, and of the priests in their gorgeous robes.
They could hear the chanting of the almost never-ending
service from their place on the porch, and catch spicy whiffs
of the incense, as it floated out on the warm air. Morning and
evening, the child led him into the court of the temple, where
he took part with the congregation in the service of the hour;
and now, as he sat leaning back against one of the great pil-
lars, fragments of the prayer of adoration came back to him:

"Blessed be thou by whose word the world was created;
blessed be thou for ever! Blessed be thou who hast made all
out of nothing! Blessed be he who has pity on the earth;
blessed be he who has pity on his creatures; blessed be he
who richly rewards his saints; blessed be he who lives forever,
and is forever the same ; blessed be he the Savior and
Redeemer. Blessed be thy name; blessed be thou, O eternal!
Our God, King of the universe! All-merciful God and
Father."

"Ah, if he would but have pity on me— a blind, useless
clod!^ Yet am I strong, and shall live— yes, live long, and
beg." And the man silently clenched his strong hands.''

" Here are more passers-by," said the child. " Have mercy,
kind masters ! Have mercy on one born blind !"

The quick ear of the blind man heard the steps of a num-
ber of men coming along the marble pavement. Now as the
cry of the child shrilled forth, they paused.

" Master, who did sin, this man or his parents, that he was
born blind?"

The head of the blind beggar sanic upon his breast, as he

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS. HI

heard these words. The old question !-had he not heard it
from his youth.? "I am accursed," he thought. "He who
hath pity on his creatures, yet punishes the innocent for the
guilty."

But what was it that the rabbi was saying? Assuredly

something new
and strange:

"Neither hath
this man sinned,
nor his parents; but
that the works of
God should be
made manifest in
him. I must work
the works of him
that sent me, while
it is day: the night
Cometh, when no
man can work. As
long as I am in the
world, I am the
light of the world."
"The light of

" I heard them call the man Jesus," said the child.

the world"! The man had raised his head now, and was
straining his sightless eyes in the direction of the voice
Presently he felt the touch of something cool and soft on his
sunken lids.

"Go," said the mysterious voice again, " wash in the pool
of Siloam." And the sound of the steps died away.

'•.H

142

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

"Come!" said the beggar, rising and stretching forth his
hand to the child. •' Come !"

" They gave us no money," said the child complainingly,
" and he put wet clay on thine eyelids. Why did he do it .?"

" Hold thy peace, child!" said the man. " Take me to the
pool. I will wash even as he bade me."

Down— down— the marble steps, went the twain.

" I heard them call the man Jesus," said the child softly.
Then after a moment, he cried, "Stay, master! Here is the
pool. Kneel down; I will hold thy robe. Now if thou wilt
reach out thy hand, thou canst touch the water."

The man plunged his hand and arm deep into the gurgling
water, and dashed it over his eyes. Then he drew back
silently, with so strange a look on his face, that the child
cried out :

" What is it ? What hath happened to thee .? "
The man did not seem to hear him; for without answering,
he .raised his hands to heaven, and cried in a loud voice:

"We would praise thee, eternal Lord God! We would
laud and magnify thee with songs of thanksgiving and praise!
We do homage to thy name, our King! our God! The only
One! He who liveth forever! O Lord, whose name is
glorious forever and ever! blessed be thou, O Eternal! For
thou hast, by the hand of thy servant, saved me out of
darkness, and out of the blackness of night. My sin is
hidden; and the sin of my parents is covered. Verily, thou
hast in thy mercy remembered one who was cut off and
accursed. Praised be the Led, who is ever and eternally
worthy to be praised!"

forth his

lainingly,
do it ?"
lie to the

Id softly.
e is the
hou wilt

gurgling
ew back
:he child

swering,
e:

:^ would

i praise!

'he only

lame is

lal! For

out of

sin is

ly, thou

off and

ternally

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS. I43

The Child regarded him with awe, for he saw that the
closed and sunken eyes were open, and that they were full
and bnght even as his own. '<His name was Jesus!" he
repeated not knowing what he said; for his childish brain was
dazed with wonder.

The man now turned and regarded him steadfastly. "Thou
art the child," he said at length.

'M am he who hath led thee forth at morning and at even-
ing, answered the child, trembling.

" Thou Shalt lead me forth no mure. Thanks be to the
eternal One! From henceforth ■ ,: n care for thee."

"Wilt thou come with us before the Pharisees, and confess
this thing, even as thou hast told it to us?"

"Assuredly," answered the beggar. '"I will gladly make
known my deliverance. Would that I knew my deliverer
that I might kiss the hem of his garment »"

"I believe him not!" said one of the group of neighbors
who were gathered around him. -Tis one who resembleth
the blind man, and that marvelously."

"But why should he lie to us in the matter.?" questioned
another. " What would it profit him?"

" Nay," said the man earnestly, « I He not; I am he that was
born blind and my eyes were opened, even as I declared
unto you.

"Most worthy and revered members of the council," said a
Pharisee, whose pious mien, broad phylactery, and flowing
robes, marked him a zealous religionist, "I have brought

'■^ i

r-tirf' ■ ri^SSSSS"

144

TITUS : A COMRADE )F THE CROSS.

before thee, for examination, a man who reports a miracle
wrought in h'-, behalf. In that this miracle was unlawfully
wrought upon the Sabbath day, it merits thy consideration."

"Thou hast done wisely, good sir," said Caiaphas, with a
stately inclination of the head. Then turning to the beggar,
he continued: " Speak, fellow, and make known thy case for
our judgment."

" I have little to tell," said the man simply. " One who is
called Jesus made clay and anointed mine eyes, and said unto
me, 'Go CO the pool of Siloam and wash.' I went and washed,
and I received sight."

This statement was received with ominous frowns and
solemn shakings of the head by the august assembly. Finally
one spoke:

" This man, Jesus, is not of God, because he keepeth not
the Sabbath day. He hath repeated this offense many times
already, as is known to all of us."

" But how," said Nicodemus, "can a man that is a sinner
do such a miracle? What sayest thou who wert healed of
this Jesus?"

" 1 think that he is a prophet," replied the man.

"Let me advise," said another member of the council,
"that an officer be sent to fetch the parents of this man, that
we may question them of the matter.'

This being approved and acted upon, the members of the
council engaged in whispered consultation one with another,
wnile the beggar stood apart an j watched the scene with his
quick, bright eyes.

Pre-,ently the officer returned, accompanied by an old man,

a miracle
inlawfully
ration."
as, with a
e beggar,
y case for

ne who is
said unto
d washed,

iwns and
Finally

epeth not
iny times

5 a sinner
lealed of

council,
man, that

rs of the
another,
with his

old man,

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS. 145

and a woman heavily veiled. As they entered the room, they
cast a furtive glance at their son, then made humble obeisance
to the assembled dignitaries.

Caiaphas regarded them in silence for a moment, then
demanded with a frown: "Is this man in our presence thy son
who ye say was born blind .? How is it that he doth now see?''

The old man again made obeisance; and spreading abroad
his hands, and lifting his shoulders apologetically, answered-
" Most noble lord, we know that this is our son; and that he
was born blind. But by what means he now seeth, we know
not; or who hath opened his eyes, we know not. He is of
age, therefore ask h;.n; he shall speak for himself "

"Stand forth !" said Caiaphas imperiously to the beggar.

The man came forward and stood beside his parents The
high priest looked at him threateningly, but the bright eyes
did not flinch. ^

" Thou Shalt be dealt with after thy deserts, if thou hast not
a care," at length said the high priest. "Confess the truth
concerning this matter, and give God the glorv for thy cure-
if such It be; for we know that the man Jesus^is a sinner "

The beggar straightened himself. A clear light blazed from
his eyes; and in a tone which rang through the council cham-
ber like a trumpet, he made answer:

" Whether this man be a sinner or no, I know not; but one
thing 1 know, that whereas I was llind, now I see!"

For a moment there was silence in the place; then an old
man who had hitherto not spoken, craned his neck forward
and said patronizingly: "What was it that he did to thee?
How opened he thine eyes?"

146

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

And again the beggar mpJe answer: "I have told you
already, and ye did not hear; wherefore would ye hear it
again? Will ye also be his disciples ?"

" We are disciples of Moses," said Caiapha., his eyes flash-
ing with anger. " 'Tis such low-born beggars as thou, who
are disciples of this man. We know that God spake unto
Moses; as for this fellow, we know not from whence he is."

"Why, he .in is a marvelous thing!" said the be'craar
sneenngly, "that ye know not from whence he is, and yeThe
hath opened mine eyes!-Now we know that God heareth not
sinners; but if any man be a worshiper of God, and doeth his
will him he heareth. Since the^world began, was it not heard
that any man opened the eyes of one born blind. If this man
were not of God, he could do nothing."

"V.-le wretch of a beggar!" said ^Caiaphas, rising in his
wrath, " thou wast altogether born in sins, and dost thou teach
us.? Get thee hence from this sacred place, and dare not to
again enter it on pain of thy life!"

And the man went forth, sad at heart; for he longed with a
great longing to see the glories of the temple.

Now as he walked, continually lifting his "eyes to the shin-
ing walls from which he was henceforth to be shut out he
heard a voice speaking to him; and turning, he saw one who
looked at him with a grave and yet sweet look, so that his
heart was mightily stirred within him, though he knew not
why. And the man spake to him, and he knew the voice-it
was that of him who had bidden him wash in the pool of
Siloam!

" Dost thou believe on the Son of God .?"

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS. 147

And the begr^ar. tremblin,?, made answer: " Who is he
Lord, that I might believe on lum?"

And Jesus said unto him, « Thou hast both seen him, and
It IS he that talketh with thee."

Then the beggar i Jl down at his feet and kissed the hem
of his garment, crying out, " Lord, I believe!"

Now it happened that some of the Pharisees who had cast
him out of the temple were standing near, and heard it. And
Jesus seeing their angry looks, and reading the thoughts of
their hearts, turned and said unto them: "For judgment 1 am
come into this world, that they which see not might see; and
that they which see might be made blind."

Then the Pharisees answered him scornfully: "Are we
bund also.?"

Jesus said unto them: "If ye were blind, ye should have
no sin; but now ye say, We see; therefore your sin re-
maineth."

148

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

CHAPTER XVIII.

OWARD the close of an earl--

spring day, two travelers were

toiling up the steep, rocky path

which led to the little mountain

village of Nazareth. The way

was rough and difficult, and the

woman sighed painfully, as she

moved slowly onward; the bey

turned and looked anxiously at

her face, which gleamed white

i . the waning light.

"Thou art weary, mother;
we should have stopped for the
night in the village below. Sit here, and rest awhile "

With a sigh of relief, the woman sank down on the rough

stone ^which the boy had covered with his sheep-skin coat.

Yes, she said at length, with another long-drau i breath-

which was almost a groan, " I am very tired; .ny strencrth fail'

eth me for toiling up these hills."

"Thou wilt feel better presently, when thou hast had time
to rest," said the boy tenderly. "We have wandered too
widely of late; it may be that we can bide in yonder village
till thou art stronger. Is it not beautiful herel See the hilTs
how green they are; and the flowers-let me gather some for
thee while thou art resting."

TITUS : A COAIRADE OF THE CROSS. 149

The woman srniled patiently. '< Dost thou not need to - ^st
my Stephen.^ We have yet a hard climb, to reach the town '
I am never tired now, mother," said the boy, gayly
sprmrring up as he spoke. ^^^'

steep bank for some bric,ht-hued blossoms. " The dear one-"
she murmured to herself "Hp ;« oi,., +
h.th ,u u / "t^fseir. He is almost a man now, but he

hath the heart of a lovin^ child still "

"Look mother!" said the lad as he laid a great sheaf of

lorrt: '''!'''■ ""^"'^^^ roses-pink. White an U'
ovv are they not sweet ? And cyclamen and mignonette L
nd these tiny yellow flowers, like little stars From the
h.g roc Where , gathered these pink roses. , could see
scarlet blossoms of the pomegranate, and orange trees as white
as snow. Wouldst thou not like it to live in^uch a por'

Naza eth .s where he hved; we shall see his home."

I thmk, my Stephen," said his mother presently, ".thnt w^
must hasten on our way; for the sun hath gone down "r
smce. and the night will soon be upon us "

"L:7m':"h:ip ;s:!"""'^^^'" ^-^^^^^^ ^^^ ^°^' ^^^--^--^ ^-p-

Half an hour more of hard climbing brought the travelers
the edge of the village. There, where the water fror^^ a
spring m the hillside gushed forth with a musical tinkle n"o a
stone trough below, the woman stopped short

"I can go no further," she said faintly, sinking down on
the grass. "I am ill." t, uuv/u on

150

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

"Oh. mother," ciiied Stephen, "we are almost there now!
Let me give thee some of this water; it will revive thee."

But the woman made no reply. Her head had fallen back
against the grassy bank b- hind her; and the boy, as he bent
over her, saw with terror that she was unconscious.

" W^-U shall 1 do!" he cried aloud, wringing his hands help-
lessly. "Mother, oh mother!"

" She hath fainted," said a voice near him. " Let me give
her water."

He looked up, and saw standing at his side a woman, bear-
ing on her shoulder a water-pot. This she hastily dipped into
the fountain, then stooping over the prostrate form, sprinkled
the white face with the fresh, cool water.

"See! She is reviving. She will soon be herself again'"
said the new-comer. " Fill thy cup and give her to drink."

Stephen obeyed, and to his great joy his mother sat up and
looked about her; but almost immediately she sank back
again, moaning faintly.

" Hast thou friends in the village ?" asked the woman.
"Nay," said Stephen. "We were going to the inn. Is it
far from here.? " he added anxiously.

" 'Tis in the upper street ; too far for her to w?:k to-night,"
was the answer. " But my house is near,"— pointing as" she
spoke, to where a faint light twinkled through the dark foliatre
" If thou wilt help me to get her on to her feet, a few steeps
will bring us to the door. Tliou shalt bide with me for
the night."

"Thou art good," said Stephen, "and I thank thee."
Between them they helped the exhausted Prisca to her

ere now!
lee."

lien back
s he bent

nds lielp-

me give

an, bear-
'ped into
sprinkled

again'"
•ink."
t up and
nk back

an.

n. Is it

i-nigiit,"
r as she

foliage,
'w steps

me for

to her

Benoni and Titus in the garden.- Page 152.

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CF?OSS. 151

feet and supported her faltering st.ps till they reached the
cottage, wh.ch was. as the woman had said, close at hand.

hnJ u^"' '"^ ""'" ^' ^'''"' ^y "^^^^"i"^''" ^^^id their
hostess as she came from the little bedchamber, wh.^. sr had

been ministerin, to the wants of her guest, in'o the^room
where Stephen was waiting.

He had had time to look about him. and saw .h.t. wv .e
the appointments of this home were very humble. . was as

^^ 'Z "' """' "' ' '"""• ^"'^ "'^^ h^ '«°'<ed more
closely at the woman herself. She was tall and of noble pro-

p t, ns; and though past middle age. her face was beautiful.

reddi h h "' ^"" '""' "^" ''' ''''''' "^-^'^' -d waving
reddish-brown hair, slightly tinged with aray

irr.7'^°^''°/''' "''"'^'" '^' '^°"^*""^'^. with a smile which
•rradiated her face like sunshine. " Thou must eat. then thou
shal sleep also." So saying, she set before the bo; a wooden
bowl containing milk, and some cakes of barley bread " Tell
me. she said, when the boy had finished, " how is it that ve
are traveling alone, and so far from home.^ For thy mother
tells me that ye dwell in Capernaum."

Thus encouraged, the boy poured forth the whole story,
telling the wondrous tale of his healing by the Na.arene.
..iH ?A . ^"^ ^way from Capernaum, as thou seest." he
home . tH ""nr"! '" ''''''''''' '^""^^ ' ^^"^^^ ^0 see his

rn::\hisTs::;^^^^'^^^^^ '''-'' '^^ '-^- ^-^- ^- ^^-

tran^stuTrh"V^'%'"'' ""' '''''' ^^^ ^^^''^ ^ ^'-■•'-
transfigured her face, kindling it to a beauty almost divine

He IS my son." she said simply. " And this is his home."

152

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

CHAPTER XIX.

> HOU hast won favor in the sight of
thy master, young man; I will tell thee
that. As for myself, thou hast been
faithful in thy duties above most that
have come under my authority, and
I am disposed to befriend thee. I am
waxing old now, and the labors of
mine office weigh heavily upon me.
thou dost continue to do well, and art
discreet and wise, I see no reason why in
time thou shouldst not become steward in
my place. For I have been prudent with my wages; and
have bought a vineyard of mine own, whither I can retire
when old age shall overtake me."

The speaker was Benoni; he was sitting at ease on a
bench in the garden, while Titus stood before him respectfully.
The lad flushed with pleasure at these words, but he made
no reply, for he saw that the old man had more to say.

"I have an important commission for thee," continued
Benoni, "and I entrust it to thee by special request from the
most noble Jairus himself-for I do not deny thai I should
have selected another to perform it. Not that 1 do not trust
thee, but that thou lackest wisdom, by reason of thy youth.
The commission is this: that thou sr.ouldst visit the vine-
yard which lieth a little beyond Tiberias, carrying with thee

TITUS: A COMRADE OF THE CROSS. 153

moneys which shall be paid to the man Caleb, whom thou
wilt find m charge of the vineyard. He will dispose of them
accordmg to the directions which I have written herein, and
which thou Shalt deliver to him together with this baa. in the
bag are the moneys of which I spoke; thou must secure it
to thy person, and go heavily armed. I shall place at thy
disposal a fleet-footed mule, and the journey can be made
between now and moonrise, if thou gettest speedily on thy
way." ■^ ^

" I shall be ready within half an hour," said Titus briefly
"Thou wilt give me plain directions how to find the place?"
he added.

" I will do more," said the old man, looking thou^rhtful " I
will give thee Asa for company; he knoweth the way, for
he hath been there many times on the like errand."

" And when he went on errands of the like, went he alone,
or did another go with him?" asked Titus.

•• He went alone," replied the old man unguardedly. Then
seeing the angry flush on the cheek of Titus, he added sooth-
ingly: "Thou knowest that the country is infested with rob-
bers; surely it would be safer for two than for one."

" If thou canst not trust me to go alone, I will not go at all-
let old Asa take the bag, and go as heretofore."

"Nay, nay, lad ! Now art thou in an unseemly temper-
thou must bridle thy tongue and thy temper if thou wouldst
do well. Did I not tell thee that I trusted thee? Nay, more-
I love thee, iad, as if thou wert mine own son; but somethina
tells me that thou shouldst not go forth alone to-day."

"But am I not strong?— fit to meet robbers if there be

-1

154

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

any?" demanded Titus, drawing himself up to his full height,
and throwing back his broad shoulders. " I know the way^s of
robbers^and their haunts better than thou thinkest, my good
Benoni," he added to himself; then aloud, " The excellent Asa
would actually be in the way, should we be unfortunate
enough to fall among thieves. 1 can imagine him in the grasp
of such an one as Dumachus."

" What sayest thou?" asked Benoni abstractedly.
Titus bit his lip. " 'Tis time for me to be off, good
Benoni," he said. " And if it please thee, I would not be
burdened with the company of the worthy Asa."

"Well, thou Shalt have thy way in the matter; and may
Jehovah protect thee."

"'Tis a pious wish, assuredly; and I will back it up with
my stout staff and a brace of knives," said Titus, laughing.

But old Benoni shook his head. " 'Tis a pity that thou art
a Gentile, lad; thy words savor of heathendom."

Half an hour later, the young man, mounted on a strong
and speedy mule, was clattering out of the great courtyard!
the money-bag securely bound about his waist under his tunic,'
his wallet well stocked with lunch, and a couple of formidable-
looking knives thrust into his belt. " I shall be back long
before moonrise. Fare thee well !" And he waved his hand
at Benoni, with a gay laugh at sight of his ixious face.

The old man shook his head as he went back into the
house, and muttered to himself: " My heart misgiveth me in
the matter; someone should have gone with the lad."

In the meantime Titus had reached the gate of the city,
and was climbing the stony bridle path which led to the hill

TITUS: A COMRADE OF THE CROSS. 155

road. It was a blithe spring morning; the sunshine lay warm
and bnoht on field and vineyard, green with that vivid
emerald tmt seen only in spring. The roadsides were gay
with blossoms, pink, yellow and blue, over which floated
great butterflies -living blossoms. Birds, busy with nest-
bu .ng, fl.tted hither and thither in hedge ' nd thickft,
whne overhead the lark "flooded a thousand acres of sky
with melody." -^

Titus drew in long breaths of the fragrant air, then throw-
J back h.s curly head, he too began to sing lustily. Assur-
edly twere a good thing to be alive and young, on such a
morning.

Towards noon, he began to leave behind the region of vine-
yards and cultivated fields alive with busy peasants, and
entered upon a comparatively uninhabited and desolate tract
country. Here the narrow road, or bridle track-for it was
little more-wound among rugged hills, amid dense thickets
oleander, tamarisk and wild olive trees. Titus knew the
P ace well. He was silent now and alert. Presently he
stopped, and fastening the mule, crept cautiously throu^rh the
un .brush to a little open space, which was perfectl^ con-
cealed from the roadway. Here a tiny spring, clear as crystal
and .ce-cold, gushed out of the side of the hill, trickled into a
rocky basin beneath, then overflowing, lost itself amona
he flowers and grasses, which grew lush and rank in this
favored spot.

Titus laid his ear to the ground and listened; then he
climbed a tall oak and looked out over the forest. From his
lofty perch he could see the road by which he had come

156

TITUS : A COA1RADE OF THE CROSS.

Winding like a narrow ribbon along the hillside; the fresh
green leaves dancing in the sunshine; glimpses of blue water
hundreds of feet below him; while out a.-.d away, beyond the
hills flecked with shadows, lay Hermon like a snowy cloud on
the far horizon. He slid down the tree well satisfied; and push-
ing through the branches, seized the bridle of the mule.

" Thou Shalt have water, and that the best thou hast ever
tasted I" he cried cheerily, slapping the sleek neck of the ani-
mal; then having attended to the wants of the beast, he
dropped down on the soft turf and began to refresh himself
with the contents of his wallet.

The spot was deliciously cool and sweet, the silence
broken only by the distant twitter of birds, the tricklina of
the water, and the steady munching of the mule, intent u'pon
his noonday meal. Titus felt a soft drowsiness stealing over
him; he glanced sleepily at his beast, and seeing that he had
disposed of only about half of his provender, he stretched him-
self out comfortably, and, pillowing his head on his arm, fell
fast asleep.

How long he slept he did not know, but he awaked with a
dim sense that something was wrong. Moving uneasily he
opened his eyes; then the full extent of his folly burst upon
mm. He was bound securely hand and foot. Against a tree
trunk near by, lounged Dumachus, regarding him with a nid-
eous leer of triumph, while the rest of the band stood or
sprawled at full length on the ground, around him.

His awakening was the signal for a burst of loud laughter
and mocking jeers.

" Art thou refreshed, my pretty youth.?" said one.

TITUS: A COMRADE OF THE CROSS. 157

And another: " In truth we did not think to find thee here-
but t,s an old tryst, and well Known to thee. Thou w ;
awaiting us, no doubt,"

Titus made an ineffectual struggle to free himself from his
bonds, glaring fiercely at his captors as he did so

n Jt^"^ '^>> """" '""^ "^y nioney-bag, thou art quite a
bagwh.h he held m his hand, till the co.-s within clTnked

bad luck n! ,''.' !^''' ^"'°'^'' ''"'^ ^^ '^^^^ ^'^ "°thing but
bad luck of late," growled another.

"We must push on to Jerusalem without further delay if

tUep™lnv'"'"' *' '"' """*" Shake-" win serve us for

"Shall I loose the lad ?" asked Gaius, with whom utus had
always been a prime favorite.

" Loose him? No!" roared Dumachus. " I have a score to
settle with him first. Some time ago," he adde , Zh„
h mself ,n front of Titus, and gazing at him ferocious y'" 1 h d
occasion to scourge my son Stephen for disobediencef whilst I
was so scourging him, someone stunned me witi, a blow, then
bound me hand and foot while I was helpless "

" Aye, 'twas handsomely done too," broke in Gaius with a
huge augh. "He lay there shrieking like a demoniac'll
n.. -•.. happened along and loosed him. By my faithi he was
so s^cely bound, that he might have lain' here y^'had The
df gs spared him." ^ ' "^

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

Twas the fate that thou didst intend for Stephen," said
Titus, boiling with indignation at the remembrance.

" So thou wert the one who did it! I knew it, thou clog of a
Jew!" hissed Dumachus.

Then, quite beside himself with rage, he hurled his loner,
two-edged knife at th^: helpless boy. It birely missed his
head, striking with a dull thud thu -...;e of the tree just behind
him, where it stuck fast, quivering witn tl^e force of the blow.
"What dost thou mean, man!" cr;.-f G;uu.s, starting for-
ward. "Wouldst thou murder the ia.J :or a trifle like that .?
Thine own son, too— as thou hast always declared."

" ! tell thee he is not my son. He is an accursed Jew and
I hate him!" shrieked Dumachus.

'"Tis no news to any of us," said Gaius, with a short
augh. "But ^'Pou Shalt not murder him, for all that. What
sayest thou?— Sh;ill I loose him and let him go.? Or shall we
take him with us to Jerusalem?"

"We will take him to Jerusalem," said Dumachus sullenly,
pulling his knife from the trunk of the tree, and cutting the
cords which bound the lad's feet. "I shall ride the mule; as
for this fellov.-, let him try to escape me, and 1 will kill him
with my hands!'"

The whole party was presently under way; two of the
men going ahead as scouts, Titus walking with bound hands
between two of the others, while the remainder of the band,
with Dumachus riding comfortably on the mule in their midst,'
brought up the rear.

Titus was too much wrapped up in his own unhappy
thoughts to pay any heed to his companions. " Fool that I

TlTbS

A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

159

was," he thought, " to sleep in that place of all others ! But I
made so sure that they were nowhere about. Why did 1 not
talv. the other road ? What will Benoni think when 1 fail to
come to-nighi ?-when he finds that 1 never reached the vine-
yard wi-n the money? If they had only taken me after I
haw paid it !" And he groaned aloud.

"Do the cords hurt thy wrists?" asked one of the men
kindly enough.

"No," said Titus shortly; then, with a gleam of hope,
"Thou wert always my friend, Gaius-wilt thou not help me
to escape ?"

"Thou talkest like a fool, boy ! Why dost thou wish to
escape from us ? We are thy friends; thou hast passed many
a merry day in our company ere now. Use thy wits to placate
our worthy chief yonder, and all will yet be well with thee."

"Nay; that I cannot do," said Titus sullenly. "He hafes
me; and for my part, 1 hate him. I wish I had killed him the
day he beat Stephen."

" The world might have spared him," said the man, chuck-
ling. " And 1 doubt not, 'twould have been better for him in
the end."

After a pabse, Titus turned to his companion abruptly
" Canst thou tell me who I am ? Thou didst hear him twice
call me a Jew."

"Now t: .u askest me something I fain would know

myself," replied the man thoughtfully. " For I doubt not that

a handsome sum would be pa'd for thy return. I opine that

.^u wert stolen from Jerusalem; for when I first fell in with

■he worthy Dumachus. he had recently come from Judea, and

160

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE Cf^OSS.

was a stranger in these parts. Thou wert then about three
years of age; once in my presence thou didst strike Duma-
chus, in a fit of puny rage, because he called himself thv
father." ^

Titus made no reply. " I am glad I am not the son of yon-
der brute," he thought gloomily. " But whose son am I ? Ke
hath taught me to hate the Jews. I am a Jew. Stephen is
not my brother; and mother— is not mother. She must hate
me, too, for she hath known this thing, and kept it from me all
these long, unhappy years."

It was night now; and lifting his eyes, he saw the moon
rising, large and yellow, behinci the dark masses of the hills
The hot tears rose to his eyes. " 'Tis moonrise. Benoni is
expecting me now. I shall not come. They will think me-a
thief!"

I; 1

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

161

CHAPTER XX.

HE band of robbers, with Titus always
closely guarded, pushed on as rapidly
as possible toward Jerusalem, traveling
chiefly at night by the light of the
moon, which was now at its full. Day-
times they skulked in thickets or
ravines, lying in wait for their prey.
Several unlucky travelers thus fell into their clutches during
the journey; these were promptly stripped of their possessions'",
their subsequent fate depending upon their behavior during
the stripping process. If they submitted quietly, they were
allowed to go, albeit half naked. But woe to the man who
dared to resist, or make any outcry! A dozen ready knives
quirkly quieted him, the wicked old saying, " Dead men tell
no tales," being a favorite maxim with Dumachus.

At dawn of the fourth day, they reached the hills lying to
the west of Jerusalem, and encamped in one of the narrow
valleys for a few hours of rest and refreshment.

"I shall go into the city alone," said Dumachus, after he
had eaten. "The rest of you will await me here. Let there
be no disturbance amongst you, lest we be foiled in our pur-
pose ere it be undertaken."

Then he drew Gaius aside, and talked with him in a low
tone for a few moments. Titus felt sure that the conversa-
tion referred to him, but he made no sl^n; he hoped in the

-IFi i

f« 'f __.-i3S^

162

TITUS : A COA^RADE OF THE CHOSS.

excitement which would shortly follow, to be able to make his
escape. His brain was already ieemiiiy with vague, impossible
plans for seeking out his parents — if indeed they were ^o be
found in Jerusalem — and for n^aking himself known to them.
How he was to do this he did not know; but he was full of
unreasoning hope.

After some hours Dumachus returned. "All is well," he
announced shortly, but with an air of triumph. Then after
draining a cup of wine. It threw himself down in the shade
and slept heavily.

The men conversed in low tones, snatches of their conver-
sation at times reaching the ears of Titus.

" There be already above five hundred men in the plot;
'tis sure to succeed."

" Will the attempt be made to-nig!)t ?"

" Before the moon rises — when 'tis dark."

" We shall force the temple gates with ease. 'Tis the plan
of Barabbas to tear down the golden eagle from the inner
gate. Herod hath set it up; 'tis an abomination in the eyes of
the Jews."

" What care we for the golden eagle, oi )r the Jews ! Tis
plunder we want !"

"Hist! Once inside the gates, man, 'twiP j hard with us
if we cannot secure some of the golden vessels with which the
temple is crammed. Then there is the other."

Here they lowered their voices, so that Titus lost wh\t fol-
lowed. Then one spoke a little louder.

" 'Tis there still ? "

" Yes. Pilate hath not yet dared to put his hands upon it;

TITl'S : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

1C3

ir conver-

thouffh the aqueduct must be finished, and he hath not the
means to do it."

" 'Tis a goodly sum ?"

" A goodly sum! 'Tis a great treasure, man! 'Twill make
us all rich for life. Our plan is to get away with it in the
confusion of the fight and make for the sea; once there,
we can escape into Greece. After that— a long lif and a
merry one!"

'"Tis a plan worthy of our chief; hath Jesus Barabbas any
knowledge of it ?"

" Not he ! He is a devout Jew, the son of a rabbi, and
thinketh only to rid the temple of the golden eagle, which, in
his -..tion, desecratet lit. He is a turbulent fellow though,
and hath an unsavory -lutation with the authorities."

" All the more reason vvhy he should have no share in our
plunder. We be reasonabl unknown in these parts, and can
therefore hope to get away. Let them take him and crucify
him; 'tWill be the better for us."

"May Jove help us!" said G^.tas devoutly. "I vow a
golden chain at every shrine in Greece, if we be successful."

"I also !" shouted another.

Dumachus roused up at the sound, and rebuking them sav-
agely for their folly, called for wine and food.

As he ate and drank, he now and then cast a fierce look in
the direction of Titus. The boy paled, and clenched his
hands tightly, for he guessed his thoughts, or fancied that
he did.

"What :hall we do with the lad here ?" asked one of the
nen presently, observing these glances.

! i

ir-™*'*

164

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

" Tis in my mind—" began Dumachus, fixing his red eyes
upon Titus with an evil smile.

But Cuius, thoroutrhly understanding his chief, interrupted
him hastily: "Taste this wine, mv Dumachus; thou wilt find
it good and sound. Hold thy cup, and let me fill for thee—
what thinkest thou of that?"

Dumachus drained the cup slowly, then held it out to be
replenished. " 'Tis a goodly vintage; where got we it.?"

"From the Samaritan wine-merchant, yesterday," answered
Gaius, filling the cup to the brim. " We shall need every arm
in our venture -to-night," he continued. "There is none
bolder in a fight than the lad Titus here, as thou knowest;
dost remember how he fought the giant Ethiopian single-
handed last year, when we so narrowly escaped being taken ?
Aye, and downed him too! We shall have need of him.
What sayest thou, lad .? Wilt thou fight the Romans with us
to-night.'"

" That will I !" said Titus, trembling in his anxiety. " Only
give me that with which to fight."

Dumachus held out the cup to Gaius for the fourth time.
" I have a mind to leave him here," he said slowly, '< and to so
leave him, that he will not again escape me, nor again foil me
in my purposes."

"Nay, my good chief," said Gaius, laying a warning hand
on Titus' shoulder. "We can scarce leave him with ^safety.
I will take him under my charge to-night; let the fellow
dare try to escape me !" And lie glared at Titus with assumed
ferocity.

"If we succeed in our venture, I care not what becomes

yi^«ki.

TITUS : A CO-MRADE OF THE CROSS.

165

of the boy!" said Dumachus, who was beginning to be merry
with the wine, with which Gaius still continued to ply him.
" Let him find Prisca— the woman hath escaped me. She can
tell him of his parents. If we win to-night, I shall be aven^red
of my wrong! Ha, ha! But come! 'tis time we were away
we must enter the city by twos and threes to avoid suspicion'
We will meet in the wine-shop of Ciopas, in the upper market
There we shall find Barabbas, and there will the others come
as soon as it waxeth dark. Fill all around and let us drink.
What IS left shall be poured out as a libation to Mars; may he
and all the gods, help us!" '

"Let them help us, I say! 'Tis a pious act to seize the
treasure from the God of the Hebrews; our own gods shall
profit by it ! " cried Gestas.

Dumachus now rose to his feet, and with drunken solem-
nity poured out upon the ground what was left in the wine-
skin, calling loudly upon all the heathen deities for assistance
in their unholy enterprise.

The wine-shop of Ciopas, in the upper market-place, sent
out a broad glow of cheery yellow light into the darkness, as
Titus together with Gaius, and another of the band called
Joca, paused near by to make sure of their bearings.

" Yonder is the place," said Joca. " 'Tis well enough known
to me. Many is the merry night I have passed there in mv
youth." ^

" Then thou art Jerusalem-born?" asked Gaius.
"Jerusalem-born and bred," replied the other. " M> father
was a silversmith and wrought sacred vessels for the temple

166

TITUS : A COAIRADE OF THE CROSS.

use. 'Twas in the shop of Clopas that I first met Dumachus.
He was a handsome fellow hi those days. Something befell
him— I know not what; he fled to Galilee, carrying a woman
and child with him. The child was the lad here. Once in my
hearing the woman called him David. Afterward he was
known to us as Titus, but 1 doubt not that David was his true
name."

Titus was listening with all his ears, but he said nothinrr.
for he hoped that the man would speak further. Gaius had
aimed him with one of his own knives. He could have slipped
away in the dark easily enough, and was half-minded to do so.
Then he reflected that he might, learn something more of his
mysterious birth and parentage, if he stayed; besides, he had
a strong curiosity to see the much-talked-of Barabbas; and
underneath all, was an unconfessed desire to share in the
exciting events which were soon to follow.

" If I go now," he argued further with himself, " I shall have
to find my way back to Capernaum alone, and confess to
Benoni that he was right and 1 was wrong. Moreover, the
mule and the money are both gone, aiid how could 1 replace
them.? I will, at all events, wait for a few hours; something
may happen to my advantage."

By this time they had entered the wine-shop, and the
opportunity for escape had, for the moment, passed.

"Yonder is Barabb. He is even now speaking with
Dumachus," whispered Gaius.

Titus looked, and saw a ma-: of giant stature, whose bold
features and quick, brilliant eyes were in marked contrast to
the bloated, brutal face of Dumachus. Titus felt instantly

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS. 157

drawn to the man; and edging his way through the crowd
managed to get near enough to near wi.at was b^ing said

Place, Barabbas was saymg in a low-toned but powerful

msulted the house of our God. It shall be torn down and
broken „„„ p^ces so small that no one shall be able t" ,; t i t
oge her^aga,n. I myself will cast the fragments into the
courtyard of the palace. 1 tell thee that Pii;,e is at hea-r;
coward. He feareth us. Did he not yield to u ^t C^ ; a
Did he not y,eld ,0 us when lately he would have seized the
sacred treasure of the temple for his own purposes '"

"u't Jrir;?'";"'^'" ""^"^^ "■^" =• ""'«i;ed voices.

Let us go forth, and tear the accursed image fron, its place'"
With a common impulse all rushed into the street Titu-

ment that the square was crowded with men, their fierce

o^d™s'tandT'h"J ,'"" "'''''' "^ *^ "»"^' ^' «-iS
•orches blandished here and there over the heads of the

A low, hoarse murmur r.ui through the assemblage, as th>v

r cognized their leader. Barabbas paused, and ;i,' , few

lort, decisive words, explained the plan and method of attack"

then commanding that the torches should be ex.in-ruish d all'

Z':z:.:''"''' '''''°-'" '^-^p'-n^errvt:^

Theyh.ad advanced no gre.-,t distance, when the clan^ of

:ht:ssrr'""''""^'-^™'- ------«"

a -r

"'fT "

168

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

"Death and confusion!" muttered Gaius, who, with Titus,
was pressing forward immediately behind Barabbas. "'Tis
the Roman guard!"

" Forward, men! Seize the Romans; there are but a hand-
ful of them!" shouted Barabbas.

With a great cry the mob rushed on; and in a moment the
noise of a fierce conflict was heard — the clashing of swords,
the clangor of shields, savage yells, together with the shrieks
of the wounded, who were trampled ruthlessly under foot.
Barabbas had pushed forward into the thick of the combat,
where he fought like a madman; but before many moments, it
was apparent that the mob was giving way.

"We have been betrayed!" said Dumachus in the ear of
Gaius. "Let us get away speedily; we can do nothing
to-night. The Romans are thicker than bees." And without
waiting for an answer, he darted swiftly away through the
crowd.

Almost instantly followed a great cry from the front: " The
Romans from the citadel are upon us! Barabbas is taken!
Run for your lives!"

The mob was now in the wildest confusion, each thinking
only of his own safety. Titus was hurried along with the
rest, and scarcely knowing what he did, darted down a narrow
street in the darkness. Presently finding himself unpursued,
he paused for an instant to recover his breath, and listening
intently, heard the frantic yells of the mob, and the sound of
the pursuing soldiery growing momently more distant.

His heart beat high with hope. "1 am safe now!" he
thought. " 1 have only to keep out of jight till morning;

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

169

then 1 can easily find my way out of the city. I will go
back and confess the whole th.ng to Benoni; he shall believe
me."

The thought of the quiet Capernaum home was very
sweet to him, as he stood there alone and unfriended in the
thick darkness. But why was his tunic so warm and wet ?
And now he became conscious of a stinging pain in his head.
" I am wounded," he thought; and feeling cautiously in his
thick curls, he discovered a deep gash which seemed to be
bleeding freely.

"Strange!" he muttered to himself, "I do not remember
that I was wounded in yonder fight !"

Presently he began to feel faint and light-headed. " 1
must have help," he thought, "and that quickly, or I shall
perish in the street."

Moving cautiously, he advanced down the street, feeling
his way along by the wall. The moon was rising now, and
by her dim, uncertain light he saw that he was about to
emerge into an open square; on the further side of thib place
there was a light, as of a fire burning, and dark figures
moving near it.

Titus uttered a cry of joy, and staggered forward, forgetting
his danger, and thinking only that help was at hand. The
next moment he fell half fainting to the ground, crying out
feebly for help.

"What was that sound ?" said one of a number of Roman
soldiers, who were gathered about the fire.

" 1 heard nothing," answered another. " What was it like?"
" 'Twas a cry, and sounded near."

170

TITUS : A COMPADE OF THE CROSS.

" 'Tis the insurgents," said the centurion. " They are still
pursuing them in the lower tuwn. They have taken many
prisoners; the ring-leader Barabbas among others. We shall
have a pretty show for Passover week."

"What meanest thou?"

" Why, of crosses, to be sure; 'tis the way Pilate taketh to
keep down this turbulent people. 'Tis a wholesome sight for
the crowds that come to the city at feast times, and doth more
to keep order than an extra legion."

"Hist! I heard the sound again!" said the other; and
plunging a torch into the fire, he began a hasty search in the
neighborhood. "Here, comrade!" he shouted. '"Tis a
wounded man; lend me a hand with him !"

Between them they brought the lad to the fire, and began
to examine him roughly by its light.

"What dost thou make of him?" asked one.

" He is a Jew, by his features— one of the insurgents. We
must not let him escape us," replied the centurion. " Tear a
strip from his tunic, and bind up his head; he hath a nasty
cut. And hand me yonder wine; I will give him a sup."

" Verily, Marcus, thou art as handy as a woman," declared
one of the others who stood by looking on.

" I am saving him for Passover week," said he who was
called Marcus, with a brutal laugh. - To die with a cut in his
head, were too good for such an one! "

Titus had revived under the combined influences of the
warmth, the wine, and the stanching of the cut.

" Canst thou stand ?" asked the centurion, seeing that he
had opened his eyes.

TITUS : A COAIRADE OF THE CROSS.

171

Titus replied by standing up, albeit somewhat unsteadily.
" Wert thou in yonder fight ;"

" I was," said Titus in a low voice. " But "

"Take him to the prison, Caius and Brutus!" was the
prompt order. And before Titus could protest, he was marched
away between the two soldiers, and shortly found himself
thrust into a cold, damp dungeon. Here he sank onto a p-'le
of mouldy straw; and despite his fears, and the pain in his
head, soon fell into a heavy slumber.

.1 ■ '

172 TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

CHAPTER XXI.

ITUS had passed more than a
week in his dungeon, when one
morning he was roused from an
uneasy slumber by the entrance
of a guard of Roman soldiers.
These commanded him to come
forth, then marched him rapidly and
silently through the streets till they
reached the palace of the governor.
Passing through the great entrance,
" " ' which was heavily guarded, they

found themselves in the prstorium, or judgment ha'.:.

Titus glanced hastily around, then his head sank upon his
breast. In that brief survey, he had seen that the great hall
was thronged with people, and that seated high aloft in impos-
ing state was a man whom he at once divined to be Pontius
Pilate, the Roman governor.

For a moment he almost forgot his surroundings in the
maze of confused and fearful thoughts which thronged his
brain. Again aroused by the ^suppressed but fierce murmur
of excitement about him, he looked up and saw the imposing
figure of Barabbas. Heavily manacled, and guarded by four
soldiers, he stood forth in the sight of all in a slightly elevated
space immediately before the judgment seat.

" Thou art accused of having incited an insurrection against

TITUS ; A COMRADE OF THE CROSS. 173

the government, on the evening of Adar the twenty-seventh
and of having committed murd.r,in that thou didst with thine
own hands feloniously slay certain soldiers of the Roman
guard, who were in lawful fulfillment of their duty Hast
thou aught to say for thyself ?"

"Who are mine accusers? Let them stand forth," said
Barabbas boldly, looking at the governor with unflinch-
ing eyes.

" Produce the witnesses," said Pilate shortly.

Several men now advanced to the front, among whom
Titus was amazed to recognize Gestas. The testimony prac-
tically agreed that the prisoner was, on the night mentioned
engaged in feloniously plotting against the government; and
that he was personally responsible for the death of an
unknown number of the Roman soldiers, who were slain in
the conflict.

"Whatsayest thou to the testimony of these witnesses?"
asked Pilate. "Is there any reason why I should not pres-
ently mflict upon thee the just penalty of thy misdeeds ?"

"What were these, mine accusers, doing' on the night of
Adar the twenty-seventh r demanded Barabbas, with a scorn-
ful smile.

" That concerns thee not," replied Pilate sternly. " Speak
for thyself now, if thou wilt, or hold thy peace while I pro-
nounce sentence upon thee."

" 1 will say this," said Barabbas, knowing that his case was
hopeless; "that 1 only regret that we accomplished not our
purpose, which was to rend the golden eagle from the temple
0. Jehovah. And furthermore, if the Romans which desecrate

174

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

lie holy city of Jerusalem were possessed of one single neck
I would gladly hew it asunder with my sword, that the land
might be rid cf an abomination which riseth to heaven."

This incendiary speech was received with a storm of hisses
from the Romans, and an irrepressible murmur of applause
from the Jews who were present. The face of Pilate paled
and his voice trembled with rage as he said:

"Out of thine own mouth thou art condemned; it only
rema.neth for me to pass sentence upon thee. Thou shalt be
nailed to the cross on Friday, the fifteenth day of Nisan next
and remain thereon til! life be extinct. Thou shalt also be
scourged upon being removed 'from my presence, and again
before the execution taketh place." Then turning to ^the
guard, he commanded them to remove the "prisoner

Titus was sick and faint at these fearful words;'but Barab-
bas, apparently unmoved, passed from the presence of the
governor with as lofty and undaunted a front as he had worn
on the night of the riot.

Then followed the examination of a number of witnesses
against forty or fifty of the insurgents. These had been
seized by the soldiers as they fled after the capture of Barab-
bas. Pilate disposed of their case very quickly, sentencing
them one and all to a heavy scourging, and a night in the
stocks.

After these had been removed, for the infliction of their
sentence, Pilate consulted for a few moments with the officials
who surrounded him, then said in a loud voice. "Let the other
prisoners be brought forward."

Titus was now roughly pushed to the space in front of the

mit

TITUS: A COMRADE OF THE CROSS. 175

judgment seat, and lifting his eves he .nu, c. ^- .

chant whl T *" "' '"'^"•''^•■>' Samaritan wine-me,-

side. He had subsequently been rescued and cared for b„

o<;£nd h.hr:h:?:e=;:-2d\r-^-
wine Shop Of Q„r "": '° '•'™« ^"" *^ ""— ^' 'he

-conp:at^herdtre:;::::rr:r'^-''--'

and stared stolidly at the governor in his ivory chair of stlte.'

I \

176

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

r! ^1

p' •

"What sayest thou concerning the prisoners?" asktd
Pilate.

Gestas looked down upon the ground, then rolled his eyes
uneflsily at the guard which stood near the prisoners; he
seemed to feel the murderous look with which Oumachus was
eying him. At length he began to speak in a low, hoarse voice.

" 1 was promised that if 1 told all, 1 myself should escape.
Is it so. Excellency?"

"Thou Shalt escape, even as was told thee. Speak on!"
said Pilate impatiently.

" Well, then," continued the man, " Dumachus, yonder,
was chief of our band. There' were twenty of us in all, but
about a dozen did most of the busines' . We had our head-
quarters in Capernaum; but put in y»L>M of our work on the
great highways leading to Jerusalem, v/he e there is always
plenty of plunder for the taking. We took much booty, and
disposed of our prisoners as seemed best at the time. Many
we allowed to go free; but if any made outcry or disturbance,
our chief commanded them to be put to death as quickly and
quietly as possible."

" How many did ye so dispose of ?" questioned Pilate.
The man scratched his head reflectively, then replied, " I
do not rightly know. Excellency. We never counted them."

" Was this young man a member of the band ?" asked
Pilate, indicating Titus, with a motion of his hand.

" He was until lately, Excellency. He is called Titus, and
was known as the son of our chief; but 'twas thought by all of
us that he was stolen in his infancy, and was therefore of no
kin to Dumachus."

TITUS : A COA\RADE OF THE CROSS.

177

" As a member of the band, took he part in the robbery and
murder of which thou hast spoken ?"

The man hesitated -.or a moment, then said:

" He was a good-hearted lad, and would have been an
honest one, had he been suffered to be so; but he had a bold
spirit, and a ready hand i' a fight."

"By that thou meanest that he did take part in the busi-
ness, as thou callest it ?"

•' 'Tis true that he killed an Ethic : .an," was the reply, " but
'twas ill I fair fight; the fellow ha J killed him else."

"Ye hear what the^e witness against you," said Pilate, now
addressing the pri^ -ncrs. "Thou, the chief, mayest speak
first." ^

Dumachus lifted his shaggy head, and began to speak
rapidly, and in a whining voice. "The man hath lied. Excel-
lency; 'tis all a foul lie. I am a fisherman by trade, and an
honest mnn. This young man here is my son. He is a way-
ward lad, and hath caused me great sorrow. He hath
undoubtedly done m-ich evil; I came up to Jerusalem to
endeavor to wean hii.i from his bad companions. 'Twas my
errand in the wine-shop of Clopas. It paineth my father's
heart thus to testify against mine only son, but—"

"Thou hast sai ' enough," said Pilate, interrupting him.
"Thou art undoubtedly a valuable citizen, and a soi rowing
father— 'tis written all over thee. But we must even spare
thee to entertain our Passover visitors. On Friday, Nisan the
fifteenth, thou shalt suffer with Barabbas, and in like .nanner.
Guard, remove the prisoner !"— as Dumachus began to bellow
like an animal.

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TITUS : A CO.MIMDE OF THE CROSS.

"And thou, wayward son of a r.Xrhteous father, hast thou
auffht to say for thyself ?"

_ Titus looked up into the sneerinrr face of the man on the
jud^rment seat, then around on the hostile faces which hemmed
liim in, his mjured head throbbinir painfully.
" Oh, Stephen!" he cried aloud, " Oh, mother*"
Pilate was thoroughly tired of the whole affair. Besides
>t was nearly time for the noonday repast, and he expected'
quests; It was therefore the more necessary for him to have
time to compose his spirits, after the painful scenes of the
m.mn.^_W^^^^

"Enouffh! This is no place for a scene! Thou shalt suffer
with the others; the world will be well rid of thee. Guards
remove him ! And clear the hall." ^uaras,

Titus lay on the mouldy straw of his dungeon once more

He was qu.et now; he was thinki.na, not of the scenes of the

morn.n,. nor of the frightful doom which hung over h,m, but

of the old, sweet days with Stephen on the lake; of Prisca

he only mother he had ever known; of the rosy. lau.hin.'

ace the l.ttle Ruth; of the good old Benoni. And ^s ^

TTk ''" '"?• '^"^'"^ '^'^ ^'^'^ ^^^°- '^-^ 'twas thll
of the Nazarene, Jesus-beautiful, mysterious, tender, with a

ve beyond all earthly love-and he fancied he agai^ heard

l.ttle. Come unto me. all ye that labor and are heavy
1- den, and 1 wll give you rest " Over and over, he repeated
^he words aloud, and their sound seemed to soothe his tor-

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS. 179

tured bram. His eyes closed, .fter a time, and with the hetl
m, woras still on his lips, he sl.pt profoundly.

And as he slept he dreamed. He thoush, that he w ,s with

fo m Z 7' J ' '''™''"' "^'"- ''"■ ""*"^ <'f "-cry

Z^rT, : '"'"'"""' ^'"'"'"y ••"'»"' 'h™. while the Z

voi«.'""Dor:H""''""' '"' "'" ''^ """'■ '" "■' --'■'• ^''v-y

themes ^ow '™™'" '"" '"^ «"'''" ^^"■"- 'Con-le'

me l.iies, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin-

not .rayed l,l<e one of these • .= And our Father in the heavlns
ioveth us better than he loveth the lilies, for we are i ^ c h I
dren; the M.aster hath said it, not once, b^t many ;! ' ■

e^J;:;^':hi:Ta:;'"i3rr";:r-r"'^'

child I am." "^"t 1-1 know not whose

fi-u^e" a man'chd' ^^^'^ """ -* "-"-" toward them the
well Tew ' '"■' """° *'^'^"-- y-'t in his heart he

to lelfht ''"'"'" "''' "^^"^" '>"y'""y- -^ '- "-'-.ed

But Titus stood still where he was. lon^inc yet afraid-

t ten'TV""' ^^ '^'' ='-''■ AS he~,„;;<ed hf ; w
b ephen fall down at the Master's feet „, an ecstasy of jov
T n Jesus put forth his hand, and raised h,m up." nd Z
•""■t.nlkmg loyingly together, came towards him mid

180

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

lilies. Then he thought that he hung his head, not daring to
look again, for his sin was heavy upon him.

"My child!" ;,

He raised his eyes slowly at the sound of that voice, and
as he looked, lo! the bitterness and guilt of his heart melted
away, and his soul expanded with a mighty love. Then the
Master, leaning forward, touched him on the brow, and said:

" Thou, too, art mine!"

And he awoke, and it was a dream! But his eyes shone
in the darkness of the dungeon, and his lips smiled.

" Behold, mine eyes have seen the King in his beauty," he
murmured. "And 1 am his."

11'

TITUS : A COMRADI- OF 11 IE CHOSS.

ISl

CHAPTER XXII.

,/T wns more than a month, now, since
Stepht-n and his mother haJ climbed
the rocky read leadin- to Nazareth; and
^-•nll they abode in the house of Mary,
the motlier of Jesus. Prisca had never
risen from the bed onto wiiich she had
had sunl<en so tlianlcfully the niirhl of
her arrival, and it became more and
more evident to the experienced eyes of

On^n , u '^^'""' ^"'""^ ^^' '^'"^^ ^v^re numbered

O .e.as she bent over the invalid to perform some triHin'
service, she said <,rently: '^

lu-all;;™'." "'^" *''■"'«'■' ^^'"" "O'J t- ™y,s„n; he could

But the sick woman caught her hanj. •• N„, „o!" sl,e crie 1
earnestly, " I am „oh,« ,„ die. anj i am slad of n AW fe i ,'
^0. been so happy ,ha, 1 would fain live longer. Let me d c
here, where it is so quiet and peaceful."

And in truth, it was a peaceful haven that she had reached
a ter d,e troublous voyage of her life. As she lay in t le m
ble bed r.agrant with spotless linen, sulfering no pa, , but
.rowing da,ly weaker, she was a.mos, happy fo^ the Z' ^::1

f„ °'*r.f" ""■ """'' °' ""^ l'«l'= h^e had been rer-
formed, Mary would bring her spinning i„to ,he chamber

. f

I Iff;
lis

182

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

Where the sick woman lay, and sitting by her bedside, work
silently while she slept. Sometimes they talked tojrether.
Once she told Prisca the wondrous story of Bethlehem, of tlK'
star, the song of the angels, and the visit of the wise men.
Another time, when Stephen was sitting by his mother, she
told them of the angelic warning, and the hurried journey into
Egypt: of the strange people and customs of that far-away
land; and of the return— not to their old home and friends in
Judea, but to this little mountain village of Nazareth.

Stephen never tired of listening as she talked of the child-
hood of Jesus, of his boyhood, and the years of his young
manhood.

" This bench under the shade of the fig tree is where he
studied when he was a child," she said one day, "and here I
used to bring my spinning in the long afternoons. He always
loved to be with m«; while the other children of the village
liked best to play in the fountain, or hunt birds' nests, or play
noisily in the streets. Yet was he the happiest child in the
world, always singing about his work, and with a smus like
sunshine. The others all loved him dearly. No one could tell
such beautiful stories as he; and there was no other so ready
to soothe a sick baby, or comfort a crying child, or bind up a
cut fmger, in the whole village. So that while he loved best
to be near me, as I have said, and spent much of his time in
helping me about the house and garden, the neighbors' chil-
dren flocked about him as thick as bees about a rose. I
remember me how he used to sit on yonder bench with one or
two babies in his arms, and a dozen other little ones crowded
about him, some sitting at his feet, leaning against his knee,

TITUS: A COMRADE OF THE CROSS. 183

to thm of the h,rds-h„w they huilt their homes so patiently

d ov,n«ly and worUed hnrd ,„ l,rln« up their y„un,„n^

an , ou«h the l„n,r bright days: about the .lowers that rrew

ofa.r and sweet in the lonely valleys, where no one bu, GrI

l"c louds in";, "' "°" •'"' '^" *'^'"-' -^ •^■'-' ''■'">

beauty. Sometimes on the Sabb.ith days he would reneat
Psa ms ,0 them, and tell them Ion, storie'from the S ri "
-of Moses ,n his little arl< and the beautiful princel o

s°rt^ m:n T ""' '"""' ^'^^'"^ »' S^^"' «- '" "»
Strong man, and many ethers."

looJ „?■"'«'? Stephen, with shinins eyes, and a pathetic

TllZT •"'°'^'^'''' ' "'«"• •'-^ "-" '" ^■-

Mary smiled her beautiful ffentlesmile, and laid her delicate
hand caressingly on his thick curls. " Dost thou know " she
sa.d after a little pause, "thou art like him in some o'f tly
ways. When thou art working so busily in the garde,, sin r-
mg soft y to thyself, or sitting as thou ar, now at my e ^1

. rkTb , : ""^ " '" ""^ ^' "^y '«'■ That is' Why
talk of him to thee so often."

"thlnTobe,h"'r" " ''^-"im," cried Stephen passionately,
than to be the Ca?sar on his throne!"

" '" ^'^.f^ ^'' ^hou wise," said Mary, and her deep eyes

is at btr ) r^'""" "^'*- " ^'^^ C^-^ °" his throne
IS at best a sinful man, while Jesus is—"

"He is the Holy One of God i" said Stephen reverently.
Then a silence fell between them for a time. But always

184

TITUS : A CO.MFMDE OF THE CROS3.

after that, the mother of Jesus noticed how he tried, humbly
and unobtrusively, but ever faithfully, to fill that vacant place.
And in her heart she loved him for it.

As for Prisca, she felt for her a tender pity, for she divined
that the woman had somewhere a dark paj^re in her history.
One day as she sat silently by the bedside of the invalid,*
i'usied with her spinning, glancinj? now and then at the white'
worn face on the pillow, she saw that great tears were stealing
slowly from beneath the closed lids. Rising, she leaned ove'r
the bed, and taking the thin, chill hand of the sufferer in both
of hers, said gently: " Wilt thou not tell me thy trouble?"

Instantly the dark eyes opened and looked long and ear-
nestly into the loving face above her. " Yes!" she said slowly
" 1 will tell thee all. I did a great wrong years ago, and it
hath weighed me to the earth all my life since. Yet have 1
never had the courage to make it right."

Then she told the story of Titus, and how she had stolen
away by night to meet her lover, taking the child with her
"Why didst thou take the child ?" questioned Mary.
"Dumachus bade me to," answered the woman feebly
"And 1 loved the little one, and could not bear to part with
him; so 1 obeyed. 1 always meant to restore him to his
mother, but I never dared. Once when I said that I must do
it, my husband in a fury struck me down; and worse than
that, he hurt my baby Stephen, crippling him hopelessly. He
was always helpless and suffering after that, till, as thou
knowest, he was healed by the goodness of thy son. Ah,
what do we not owe to thee! And now thou wilt hate me!
1 am not fit to be under this roof."

TfTUS : A CO.MRADE OF THE CROSS. 185

Mary was silent for a moment, but she kissed tl,e sufferer
tenderly on the hrow; then she said lirmly, ..Thou must even

telhim,^, ':;'•'".'■"""'■' "'"" l^-'' I'i'h"- Thou shall
true. Hast thcj them here?"

out a l,tt e racket, securely wrapped in linen, and hound with
a silken thread. .. I have never let it .„ from me; 'tis the litt
tumc which he wore when I fled with him. His mo ^
wrou«h ,t with her own hands, she will know it. And wm
■t IS a Cham of wrousht .silver, which she Rave me to wear
when She selected me from all her maidens to care for theTm,:
David. And how have I betrayed ray trusti What will
become of me!"

rJ^"?,""" '"''""' ''"""" «*™"sly," said IMarv. ..But
God w,l forjr.ve thee, even as he foritave Kin« David who

dus'i*^hnt ''""^'V."-'" '"" ''""' " "^""-hled, even unto the
dust, but, alas! it brmgeth me no peace'"

Mary looked troubled. She raised her dove-like eves

•Ah Son of God!" She murmured, as if to herself, .'woud

that thou wert here to minister to this sin-sick soul ! As for

me I know not what to say unto her." Then she spoke again

tojhe s,ck woman. ■. Dost thou know my son, who is called

"1 have seen him," answered Prisca. ..And 1 always
longed to speak with him, that I might thank him for the heal-

186

TITUS: A COMIMDE O.' THE CUOSS.

i i

inj? of my Stephen. But I dared not; tlie sin in my heart wr.s
too «reat. I had almost put it under my feet, till I saw him in
Capernaum." ^

" He is the Sinless One," said Mary gravely. '<I3ut didst
thou never hear him say that he had come to this world, out
of heaven above, to save those that had sinned ?"

"Said he that.?" cried Prisca eagerly. -And haw save
them r

"He hath said, not once but many times, that 'whosoever
believeth in him, should not perish, but have everlasting life,"'
said Mary simply.

" Thou art sure that he said, ' whosoever ' .? "
" He hath said it-not once, but many times," answered the
mother of Jesus.

" And what is it that I must believe ?" asked Prisca, trem-
bling in her eagerness.

"That he came down from God, to seek and to save that
which was lost; and that he is nble to accomplish that for
which he came," answered Mary.

" How could I help but believe that ?-did he not save my
Stephen from worse than death !" Clasping her thin hands,
she cried out joyfully: " 1 believe that he is able!" Then she
closed her eyes and lay so quiet, that Mary thought she slept^
Presently Stephen stole into the room, and stood beside the
bed, looking down at his mother.

" What thinkest thou?" he asked in a low voice. " Doth
she mend i""

At the sound of his voice, the sick woman opened her
eyes. "1 have been a great sinner above most," she said

'i iilN

TfTUS : A CO.HrWDE OF THE CHOSS. |S7

faintly. ^ But H. came t. save me. and I am at peace. Thou
w,l, ,nJ T,tu,s-,,ive him this. She will tell thee all ■•

Then the dark eyes closed ai;ain, and f„r the last tim-

The two sat beside the bed and watched the quiet slZ^i

hrou«l, tlie Ion, hours of the ni,-ht. Just n, datrhe n I

PS moved, and Stephen, stooping down, cau«h. ,w wo dt

Stephen-Jesus." Then the faint brea.l, stopped altoZ 1^'

She had entered into evcrlastin.^ life """.'^thtr.

with the eastern custom, at evening of the same d,v
Stephen heard from tl,e lips of Mary ,he story of Titir '

He w.-,s gre.itly moved. "Poor mother!" he said' "No
wonder she wept, with such a burden on her heart. Sh- wl
a tnnid soul and lived always a life of terror "

Then he told the mother of Jesus all that he knew of h's

tt:\:;rd'tisi;:d"."^"''''-™-""-"--"'"''ix

" Dost thou mean that .'" said iVlary

as he'clu-l'T'""' """ "" '" "'"' ^'^^"^" impetuously,
as he causht her meanms, "Didst thou he:,r my mother's
l-t words > In ,ha, moment when with her cy,n« breath 1 e
coupled my name with Hi.s, , knew what I must do, sh
give my whole life to him."

••Thou shal, indeed," sail Mary, gazing away over the

wh;\ ; %""""' '"°" '" '^" "'"' ^y-- "B^t I Know not
what the future hath in store for him. He hath bitte
enemies; sometimes I fear for his life." And she turned to
Step en w„h a tremulous quiver of her sweet, firm mouth
Is he not the Beloved of the Father?" said Stephen

IS8

TITUS : A CO.MIWDE OF THE Cf?OSS.

Simply. And is the Father not able to save him from the hand
of his enemies ?"

" ' He shall make his enemies his footstool,' even as it is
written," answered Mary in a firm voice, "ard he shall
triumph irIorioLisly!"

Stephen retjardod her with awe.

After a little silence, she said: "To-morrow thou must ffo
forth even as thy m )tlK-r bade thee, that thou mayst find the
younjT man David, and acquaint him with all that hath hap-
pened. As for me.l am troinir up to Jerusalem. Somethin^r
tells me that he will have need of me."

And so it happened that in the morninir early, Stephen set
forth alone on his journey, bearinij with him the little tunic
wroutrht by the mother of Titus, and the silver chain which
had belonired to his own dead mother. And when he
departed Mary blessed him and kissed him ; and he wept, as
he bade her farewell, for he was but a lad after all, and the
world was wide and lonely.

■1 ' >•

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

1S9

CHAPTER XXIII.

N his own private apartment Caiaphas
was stridinir up and down tiie tloor. his
hands clasped behind him, his head hent
forward on his breast. His eyes were
bla?injr with an an<rry liyht beneath his
brows, and now and then he muttered
fiercely to himself, " Blasphemer ! He shall
be crushed ! Have I not vowed it-I, Caiaphas, the high
priest ? He shall not defy me lonirer!"

Hearing a sli^rht sound outside, he strode rapidly to the
door of the chamber, and tlunsr it open.

"Ah. Malchus! Tis thou. Enter! Well, what hast thou
to say ?"

The mm bent his head humbly. « Most worshipful mas-
ter, I went as I was bidden to Bethany. When I reached the
place, I had not the slightest difficulty in fmdintr the abode of
Lazarus; the streets were thronged with people goin-r and
comuig to the house, which 1 found to be one of the humbler
cottages of the town, albeit comfortable and tidy."

" I care not what sort of a place it was," interrupted Cai-
aphas irritably. " The man !-didst thou see the man ?"

"I saw the man Lazarus-alive and well," continued Mal-
chus. " He was in the garden of his house talking to the
people."

" Talking to the people, was he !" sneered the high priest.

'■U

190

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

" The country is full of orators nowadays. And what said he?"
" He was telling the story of his resurrection. He said that
the four days which he passed in the tomb were as a sleep.
He hath still a faint memory of wondrous dreams, but cannot
tell clearly what they were like. He was also praising and
blessing God. and ascribing equal praises to the Nazarene
whom he called the Son of God, and the Consolation of
Israel."

Caiaphas ground his teeth. " And the people.?"
"The people all cried aloud, 'Hallelujah!' and ' Hosanna
to the Son of David!' All Bethany hath gooe mad over the
thmg; such a wonder hath never even been heard of."

" 'Tis a palpable lie, and hath been invented by this fellow
and his followers to make an uproar at feast time! Didst
thou question others concerning the thing, as 1 bade thee.?"

The man looked gravely at his masttr. " Tis regarded as
a veritable miracle in Bethany," he said. " 1 made the most
careful investigation, even as thou didst command me, ques-
tioning many discreet and prudent persons concerning the
matter. I also examined the tomb in which he lay. The man
was unquestionably dead, and had been buried four days; but
how the Nazarene was able to restore him to life, except by
the power of God, I know not; nor could any one tell me."

" Keep thy senses, man! Let not the evil one prevail over
thee!" said the high priest, looking sternly at his favorite ser-
vant. " No disciple of the blasphemer shall serve me."

" 1 am not a disciple," replied Malchus, looking down upon
the ground. - But the thing is beyond my understanding."
" Enough !" said Caiaphas, with an impatient ges'ture.

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

191

"Leave me; and prepare the council chamber. Let it be in
readiness within an hour."

"We have dealt gently with this thing too long already;
the man must be put out of the way, and that speedily!"

The speaker was the venerable Annas. He was the centre
of an, excited group in the council chamber of the high priest.
" If we let him thus alone, as we have been doing 'nr almost
three years now, all men will believe on him, and tu. Romans
will come and take away both our place and nation; and
deservedly so. He should have been dealt with long ago—
'twas my advice then, and could have been easily followed in
the beginning ; but the matter hath now assumed such an
aspect, that it will be exceedingly difficult to bring about his
death."

" 1 am not in favor of putting the man to death," said Nic-
odemus, in his mild tones. " For in my opinion he hath done
nothing worthy of death."

"Thou knowest nothing at all !" broke out Caiaphas, pas-
sionately, " nor dost consider that it is expedient for us that
one man should die for the people, and that the whole nation
perish not."

Nicodemus looked at him for a moment in silence. "Thou
art the high priest," he said solemnly. "Jehovah speaketh
through the words of thy mouth ; but God forbid that we put
an innocent man to death. For my part I will have nothing
further to do with this thinir."

"We have long suspected that thou art one of his disci
pies," said Annas with a sneer. "Thou art therefcre out of

•-"''•ijpy'!'*''"'

192

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

pbce .-n the council of the Sanhedrim. Go hence, and join
thy illustnous master, the carpenter, and his followers whom
he hath gathered from the refuse of the earth."

Nicodemus made no reply ; but he arose and passed out of
the council chamber in dignified silence.

"Let him go!" said Jochanan. "Tis not meet that we
lose time in discussing what is sufficiently obvious to all the
rest of our number." As he spoke, he glanced around the
circle, and a little murmur of applause followed.

But there was one who did not join in the applause. He
was looking steadily upon the floor at his feet, his finders
busying themselves uneasily with his long beard The
name of this man was Joseph, and he was a native of
Arimathea.

"Now as to the case of this fellow Lazarus, who is making
quite an uproar on his own account," continued Jochanan''
what think ye ? It seemeth to me that he were better off in
the tomb from which he was taken. If he were indeed dead
hen was it the will of God, and he should have remair.ed so.'
We shall not be doing unlawfully if we carry out upon him
the sentence of death which Jehovah had himself already
imposed." -^

"Thou hast spoken wisely," said Annas. "The man had
evidently reached the proper limit of his days; it is more than
probable that his body is now animated by a devil, which thus
speaketh blasphemously through the flesh. He should be put
out of the way, and that speedily. See to it; for he leadeth
away much people after him."

" Moreover, being a dead body, which hath no longer any

assed out of

TITUS : A COiMRADE OF THE CROSS. 193

right on top of the earth, he defileth every man with whom
he Cometh in contact," said another, piously.

"Let the man Lazarus alone!" said Joseph of Arimathea
unable to restrain himself any lonrrer. " I know him well- he
IS an honest man and a just. I have also seen him since his
resurrection from the dead-if so it was. He hath not a devil-
and believing what he doth, he justly praiseth God for his
deliverance, and glorifieth with him his Savior from the tomb."

" The matter can be discussed later," said Annas smoothly.
"Can any one here inform me of the whereabouts of the
Nazarene.''"

"He hath come even to-day to Bethany, where he sojourn-
eth with this same Lazarus," said Caiaphas. " 1 was informed
of the fact as I entered the council chamber. He undoubtedly
purposeth to be in Jerusalem for the feast. He must be seized
in secret, that there be no uproar among the people. And
there must also be some evidence secured against him, which
shall bring him under Roman jurisdiction. For, as ye know
this tribunal hath not the power to put any man to death."

The eyes of several present flashed dangerously, at this
reference to the Roman supremacy and the national degrada-
tion. But Annas hastened to say blandly:

"The Romans have not shown themselves unfriendly to
the church of the living GoJ-our temple beareth witness to
the fact; we must not forget it, nor blindlv risk beino- crush ^d
by the iron hand of Rome. We must rather seek to^dly our-
selves to them in every way in our power. If this man Jesus
can be convicted of plotting against the government, our work
will be practically done. We can then deliver him over into

' -~— —111—1

194

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

the hand of Pilate, assured that he will be dealt with after his
deserts. To-morrow, especially, let him he watched closely
in such a case as this, the Sabbath laws must be relaxed so'
that we shall be enabled to perform this work-which is
assuredly one of necessity."

At this moment a loud knocking was heard at the door of
the council chamber. Caiaphas looked astonished. "Who
dareth to interrupt us in our deliberations!" he said aloud
"But stay! It must be something of importance!" And he'
beckoned to one of his brothers-in-law to open the door

^ The man returned almost instantly, and said in a low voice-
" Tis one of the followers of the Nazarene. He would spei^k
with the high priest."
Cniaphas hesitated.

" Wilt thou not command that he be brought before us?"
suggested Annas. " It may be that he hath repented himself
of his folly in joining the man; he might in that case be dis-
posed to give us timely assistance."

" Let him be brought in," said Caiaphas.
There was a silence in the chamber, broken only by the
footfalls of the man who now entered. As he stopped and
hesitated at sight of the imposing assemblage, it could be
seen that he was of low stature, and of a singuhrly sinister
and forbidding cast of countenance.

Annas smiled genially as his eye fell upon the new-comer.
" Wilt thou not come forward and acquaint us with thy
desires.?" he said in his most honeyed tones.

The man looked at him. "Art thou the high priest .?" he
as!<ed hoarsely.

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

195

"^^I am the hiorh priest, fellow! What wouldst thou with
me?"' demanded Caiaphas impati; 'tly.

But Annas touched him warningly. " Thou hast come, my
good man, to speak with us in regard to the Nazarene; is it
not so?" he asked.

The man's face brightened, and an evil iiirht shone in his
eyes. "Aye!" he said in a loud voice, " I have! I can no
longer abide his presence, it hath been made known to me
that thou art his enemy, therefore am I come."

"Ah!" said Annas softly, "thou wouldst fain return to the
bosom of the church of thy fathers, and cease thy wanderings
in by and forbidden paths; am I not right ?"

"I care not for the church!" was the bold reply, "any
more than the church careth for me. But 1 want money;
what wilt thou give me if I betray him into thy hands?"

Caiaphas started to his feet, while joy sparkled in his eyes.
" What will I give thee?" he exclaimed. " Why, man-"

But Annas checked him, saying in a low voice: "Let me
manage the fellow, my son; 1 understand this sort as thou
dost not." Then he went on judicially: "It were worth no
great sum, assuredly, my good man, since we already know
where he is to be found. Still, thou mightest be of assistance
to us, and we are disposed to be generous. What sayest thou
to twenty pieces of silver?"

The man looked down. "'Tis too little," he said sullenly.
"Thou knowest not his haunts as 1 do.'

" True," said Annas smoothly. " I will even increase the
amount by half. Deliver him into our hands safely, and at a
time when there shall De no uproar of the people, and we will

196

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

give thee thirty pieces of silver-'tis a goodly sum and not to
be despised.

The man shuffled uneasily on his feet, and looked furtively
about h.m at the evidences of wealth on every side. But he
made no answer.

Caiaphas. in a fury of impatience, was about to burst out
into speech, when Annas again spoke, and this time his colJ
even tones had a shade of sternness in them:

" Thou must decide quickly, for we are considering other
plans Wilt thou have the thirty pieces or wilt thou not ?
1 hy Master is doomed in any event."

sloJly' ""'" ^''' '"'"^ ^"'' '' "'°"''"* '°"^"'' ^^''" ''^ ^'^'^
"Well, I will do it; 'tis a small sum, but I am a poor man-
must look out for myself. 1 have wasted many months in'
followmg this Jesus. 1 thought him the Messiah; but he is
not-he is not-he is not." And his voice died away into an
inaniculate murmur.

•'Thou hast done right and wisely, both for thyself and for
us, said Annas warmly, rising and approaching the miserable
wretch, who was trembling in every limb. " Thou shalt have
food and wine before leaving the palace. But first, what is
thy name? and what art thou to the Nazarene?"

" My name is Judas Iscariot. 1 am one of "the twelve who
are always with him," replied the man, in so low a voice that
Annas could hardly catch the words.

"One of his immediate followers!" said Annas, rubbinrr his
hands, and looking about the circle of attentive listeners with
a triumphant smile. "Ah, this is better than I thouahf it is

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS. 197

indeed well ! Now. my good man, it is important that the
Nazarene should suspect nothing of all this-thou seest that
of course, for thou art a shrewd fellow-therefore attend
strictly what I shall say. Go back to him and attend him
as usual, till such a time as thou canst safely-mind, 1 say
s. ely, w.th no disturbance, nor outcry to arouse the people-
deliver h.m into our hands. We will take care of the rest.
And the silver shall be paid thee immediately thereafter. This
IS the earnest of the larger sum which shall be thine " And
he pressed a coin into the man's hand.

liaible ""^'''^'^ ^^ '* ^'■'''^''^' "^"ttering something unintel-

But Annas was content. " Here. Malchus!" he said cheer-
ully. opening the door of the chamber, "take this good fel-
low and see that he hath an abundance both of food and
wine. "

At this, the man turned fiercely upon him. "Nay I
am not a beggar! I want only what is justly due me." ThLn
looking full into the eyes of Annas, he hissed: "Thou shalt
have^him! Do not doubt it; for , hate him. even as tu

iook"irh!r^' ''' ^^" '-'''' '-''' -''^^' --

198

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

CHAPTER XXIV.

WANT to go home, mother! Why
must we stay here so lonjr?" and the
child tugged impatiently at his mother's
robe.

"Nay, my child, thou must be
patient. vVe have not long to wait
now. See, here is a cake for thee;
eat it while I tell thee again why we
are here, for thou must remember this
day to thy latest breath."

"Tell me," said the child, between
his mouthfuls, looking up into his mother's face.

" When thou wert a bab'e, my Gogo, thou wast nigh unto
death; and this Jesus healed thee."

"Thou hast told me that many times! Give me another
cake; I am hungry."

" Yes, my son, I have told thee many times, for had it not
been for this Jesus, thou wouldst even now be lying in the
grave— and I should be childless! My child! My love 1" And
the mother embraced the little form with passionate tenderness.
" Why dost thou hold me so tight, mother.?" asked the boy,
shaking the curls out of his eyes. " Oh! see that lovely b'rd !''
"Never mind the bird, child, but listen! This Jesus is a
king— the Messiah. To-day he is coming along this road, and
thou Shalt see him."

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

199

"A king! Will he wear a crown?"

"I know not. It may be. We shall see. But look at the
people.'-thousands upon thousands of them! We h-ive a
good place here. We shall be near him." ' '

" Nay I like it not; 1 care not to see a king. I would rather
play. Let us go home!"

"Hark! Dost thou hear that ?" cried another woman who
stood near. « They are coming! What is it that they are
saymg-'Hosanna! Hosanna to the Son of David ! Blessed
IS he that Cometh in the name of the Lord ! Hosanna in 'the
highest! Ah, 'tis a blessed day! To think that we should
l.vetosee.t! Butsee the people running! They are strippincr
down the palm leaves!"

" Why do they do that, mother?" again questioned the
little one.

" Thou Shalt sit on my shoulder and see. Now art thou as

tall as a man, and can see further than I What seest thou?"

I see many people coming-and a man riding upon a

mule," replied the child. - p ' 'i

"Yes! yes!" said the other woman, "I see also. Can it
be he? The people are shouting and throwing the palm
branches before him! See! they strip off their garments, and
lay them also in the road !"

And now the procession was close at hand; and the whole
multitude of the disciples began to rejoice and praise God with
a loud voice for all the mighty works that they had seen
saying: '

"Give thou the triumph, O Jehovah, to the Son of David '
Blessed be the kingdom of our father David, now to be

200

TirUS: A COMRADE OF THE CKOSS.

restored in the name of Jehovah ! Blessed be he that comcth
-the Kintr of Israel-in the name of Jehovah. Our reacL-
and salvation are from God above! Praised be he in tlie
highest heavens ! From the highest heavens send thou now
salvation!"

" Look at him. child ! 'Tis the King-the Messiah! Shout
now with me-Hosanna to the King! Hosanna to the Son
of David !"

" Hold thy peace, woman! Art thbu mad, that thou teach-
est thy innocent babe to blaspheme?"

The woman, startled by these harsh words, turned about
and fixed her eyes, large with fright, upon the speaker. She
saw that he was a Pharisee, and clasping the little one closer
to her breast, she said:

"I know not what thou sayest. He is the savior of my
child; therefore 1 praise him."

But the man paid no heed to her answer; he was pressing
forward into the throng which surrounded the Master.

" nearest thou what these are saying.?" he shouted angrily.
" Bid them hold their peace !"

The Master turned, and looking upon him, said; "I tell you
that if these should hold their peace, the stones would imme-
diately cry out."

" And when he was ne^ir, he beheld the city, and wept over
It, saying, if thou hadst known, even thou, at least in this thy
day, the things which belong unto thy peace! But now they
are hid from thine eyes. For the days shall come upon thee
that thine enemies shall cast a trench about thee, and compass
thee round, and keep thee in on every side, and shall lay thee

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS. 201

even with the ground, and tliy children within thee. And
hey shall not leave in thee one stone upon another; hecaus^
thou kntwest not the time of thy visitation. And when he
was come into Jerusalem, all the city was moved, sayin<r Who
IS this.? And the multitude answered, This is Jesus, the
prophet of Nazareih of Galilee."

sonnH '^'J'''''''''' ^''''^^ ^'"t'^i" ^he city gates, and the
sound of the chanting and acclamations died away, one of a
group of men in foreign dress who had been intent witnesses
of the scene, turned to his companions. "What say ye\o
this, friends.?" he asked earnestly.

'''Tis a wondrous sight. And the man!-his countenance
hath a look upon it that is not of earth. Know ye aught con-
cerning him.?" ^ ^

"I have heard, mine Apelles, that he is in deed and in truth
the Prince long expected of the Jews, and foretold in their
bcriptures. Even now they look to see him establish his
throne in Jerusalem. 1 would fain see him, and stand in his
presence.

'M also, my Andronicus," said another. "But how may
hat be.? We are Gentiles-albeit converts from the pagan
faith of our fathers to the one only and true God. Would this
King of the Jews suffer us to approach him.?"

"Nay, I know not," answered Apelles. " But he hath not
yet hedged himself about with the grandeur of a kina Didst
thou see how even the children and the women approached
nim fearlessly.?"

" 'Tis true," said one who had hitherto been silent. " If he

202

THUS. : A COMRADE OF THE CRCJl^S.

be a kinjT.he is a king apart from the kings of this earth.
His followers be humble men. One of them is known to me.'
He hath a Greek name-Philip. Let us seek him and inquire
further of this matter." And forthwith they all entered into
the city and sought the temple. For there they hoped to find
the man Philip.

As they passed into the court of the Gentiles, the quick
eye of Rufus caught sight of the man of whom he had spoken,
about to pass into the inner court, whither these foreigners
could not come. Starting forward hastily, Rufus touched him
on the shoulder and said in a low voice: " A word with thee,
gCKj' friend."

Philip turned himself about, and as his eye fell upon the
swarthy face of the Greek, he drew back a liUle, and said
somewhat coldly:

" Ah, Rufus, 'tis thou! What wilt thou?"

^" I would have speech with thee for a moment," replied
Rufus. "I and certain of my countrymen— like myself con-
verts to the religion of the Jews— have come up to the feast
and to-day we saw the man who is called the prophet of Naz-
areth as he enteied into the city; and certain strange thi-ngs
concerning him have come to our ears. Sir, we would fain
see this Jesus for ourselves, that we also may learn of him."

Philip looked troubled. " Friend, thou art a Gentile not-
withstanding that thou hast turned from idolatry to the true
faith. I know not whether this may be. And yet— stay! 1
will consult with another of our number. Wait here; I will
return speedily." i: saying, he turned away and was quickly

lost to view in the cro\.

^v'. ;h filled the place.

TITUS : A CO.MrJAD3 OF THE CiJOSS. 203

The Gr.el< bcc.'.-onecl to his companions. '<TIiou wert
r^.^m:^Apel|es- he Mi. Ntter.y: "these Je.s cannou!
get that we are but stran„rers vvitiiin the ^rate "

"He will iiot receive us, then!" said Apelles in a tone of
deep dKsnppo.ntment. « Let us depart out of this place li
care not whether I ever return,"

the"im7; ^'''"^'-''^°" ^^* over-hasty." said Rufus. smiling at

un ^ the follower of the Nazarene hath made sure of the
matter. Nevertheless he reminded me that I was a Gentile
T.S aname that I hate! But see! he is returning."

Philin . 'T '^°'''" '"''^ '^' Master concerning thee." said

Ph-hp. and smce .t is unlawful for thee to come to him in

emner courts of the temple, he will even come forth unto

es" he::,::." ""^'"' ^^^ '''' ^^^^^-^^^^ -> ^'- '-'•■•'■

^JaT'"'-'^' ''""'^''^' ^''' °^ ^f^^"^^ ^"^hed at these worJs
but Andronicus made answer:

"Thy Master doeth us honor. It may be that even we
Genfles t ou,h we be. shall yet render him some ervTce
which shall be acceptable unto him."

Philip bowed his head gravely, but made no answer

Then lif>mg up his eyes, he said: " The Master is at hand " '

And :^^ Greeks, looking earnestly in the direction to which

he poin ed. saw approaching them the Jesus whom they had

lon^^ed for They bowed in lowliest reverence before I m

and Jesus, lifting up his face to heaven said-

glorified!"'"' " '""' '''' ''' ^'' '' ""'^ should be

204

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

Then looking searchingly into the earnest faces before him
he continued, "Verily, verily I say unto you, except a grain
of wheat fall into the earth and die, it abideth by itself alone-
but if it die, it beareth much fruit. He that loveth his life
loseth it, and he that hateth his life in this world shall j<eep it
unto life eternal. If any man would serve me, let him follow
me; and where I am, there shall also my servant be. If any
man serve me, him will the Father honor."

Here he paused for a moment, evidently lost in thought;
then again lifting his face toward the cloudless spring heavens,'
he said in a tone of pathetic patience: "Now is my soul
troubled; and what shall I say.? Father, save me from this
hour. But for this cause came I unto this hour. Father
glorify thy name."

Then sounded forth a great and melodious voice, filling all
the infinite space of the sun-lit sky above them:

" 1 have both glorified it, and will glorify it again."

The Greeks were awe-stricken at the prayer and at its
wondrous answer. Instinctively they covered their faces with
their hands, and sank upon the earth.

"It thunders," said one of a group of Jewish rabbis who
stood by, enviously watching the scene.

" An angel hath spoken to him," murmured others beneath
their breath.

And the Master answering said: " This voice hath not come
for my sake, but for your sakes. Now is the judgment of '
this world: now shall the prince of this world be cast out.
And I, if 1 be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men
unto me."

Ni5^»tB!I

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS. 205

"We have heard out of the law that the Christ abideth

orever, said one of the rabbis; "and how sayest thou, that

the Son of man must be crucified ? Who is this Son of man?"

And Jesus made answer:

" Yet a little while is the light among you. Walk while ye
have the light, that darkness overtake you not; and he that
walketh in darkness knoweth not whither he goeth While
ye have the light, believe on the light, that ye may become
sons of light."

Then he went away and was seen no more of the multi-
tudes that day.

And the Greeks departed out of the temple, communincr
earnestly together of all that they had both seen and heard ^

"Let us tarry in Jerusalem," they said, "that we may
agam speak with him."

But the Jews believed not, for their eyes were blinded to
the l.ght, and their souls were filled with bitterness and envy

Yet because of the voice from heaven some even of the
rulers believed; but they durst not confess it, because they
feared the Pharisees. Verily, they loved the glory of men
more than the glory of God.

■ c ^ '""" ' ■-" II I an

206

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

CHAPTER XXV.

ONDER is a man bearing a
pitcher. Dost see liim ? He is
about to turn up the street."

"1 see him," said Peter,
IooI<ing earnestly in the direc-
tion in which John was point-
ing. "Let us follow quickly,
l^st he escape out of our sight."
So the two followed the man,
who presently paused before
the gateway of a house, seem-
ingly that of a well-to-do family. The two entered boldly in
after the pitcher-bearer, who turned to stare at them with
amazement.

"We would see the master of the house," said Peter
authoritatively.

The man made obeisance. " Wait here for a moment, good
sirs, and I will fetch him." he said, looking curiously at
the two.

Presently he returned, followed by an elderly man.

" If thou art the master of the house," said Peter, fixin^
his eyes upon him, " I have a message for thee."

The man bowed his head. "Speak," he replied, "and 1
will listen."

"This is my message," continued Peter. "The Master

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

207

saith unto thee, ' Where is the guest chamber, where I shall
eat the Passover with my disciples ?' "

'"Tis the word 1 received in my dream," murmured the
man, as if to himself. " Lo, 1 have prepared the chamber, and
It is ready. Follow me."

They followed him, and he showed them a large upper
room, furnished with everything needful for the fea^st. And
they made ready the Passover.

And r/hen it was evening Jesus came with his disciples,
that they might eat of the supper. As they reclined at the
table, Jesus being in the midst, he looked about upon the
twelve and said: "With desire I have desired to eat this
Passover with you before I suffer. For I say unto you, I will
not any more eat thereof, until it be fulfilled in the king-
dom of God."

And as they were eating, he said: "Verily I say unto you,
that one of you shall betray me."

And they were all astonished and exceeding sorrowful,
and began every one of them to say unto him: " Lord, is it 1?"'

Now John, who was especially beloved by the Master, was
next to him at the table. Peter, looking at him attentively,
motioned that he should ask Jesus who it was of whom he
had spoken.

And John said very softly, so as to be heard by no one
save the Master, " Lord, who is it .?"

And Jesus, in the same low tone, made answer: '"Tis
he to whom I shall give a morsel of bread, when I have dipped
it in the dish."

Then breaking from the thin cake of bread before him a

208

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

_ fragment, he rolled it up, and dipping it into tlie dish, gave
it to Judas Iscariot.

As Judas accepted this little token of friendship from the
hand of him whom he had once loved, all the awful passions
of his soul broke their bonds. He started up, his eyes blazing
with an evil light. Jesus looked at him, and said, still in a
low voice: "What thou doest, do quickly,"

And unable to bear the look in those eyes, Judas slunk out
of the room and hurried away in the darkness, muttering
fiercely to himself.

When he had gone, Jesus said to the eleven: " Now is the
Son of man glorified, and God is glorified in him. Little chil-
dren, yet a little while I am with you. Ye shall seek me; but
whither I go, ye cannot come. A new commandment I
give unto you, That ye love one another, even as I have
loved you."

And he took bread and blessed it, and brake it, and gave to
the disciples, and said :

" Take, eat; this is my body, which is given for you. This
do in remembrance of me."

And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them,
saying, "Drink ye all of it. For this is my blood of the new
testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins.
This do ye, as often as ye shall drink it, in remembrance of
me. But I say unto you, 1 will not drink henceforth of this
fruit of the vine, until that day when I drink it new with you
in my Father's kingdom."

Then Peter said to him: "Lord, where is it that thou art
going?" For he was perplexed and sorrowful, as were they all.

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

209

Jes'is answered him: " Whither I go, thou canst not follow
me now, but thou shalt follow me afterward."

"Lord, why cannot I follow thee now?" insisted Peter
anxiously. " 1 will lay down my life for thy sake."

Jesus looked at him sorrowfully, as he answered: "Every
one of you shall be offended because of me this night. For it
is written, '1 will smite the shepherd, and the sheep of the
rlock shall be scattered abroad.' But after I am risen I will go
before you into Galilee."

" Though all men should be offended because of thee," de-
clared Peter passionately, " yet will I never be offended !"

"Simon! Simon!" said the Lord warningly, " behold, Satan
hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat. But
I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not. And when
thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren."

But Peter answered him yet again: " Lord, I am ready to go
with thee both into prison and to death."

Then said Jesus sadly: "Verily I say unto thee, that this
day— even in this night— before the cock crow twice, thou shalt
deny me thrice."

" If I should die with ti.ee," cried Peter, vehemently, " I
will not deny thee in any way."

And all the others said the same.

Then Jesus had compassion on them, as he thought of all
that they must suffer in the future; and he said many sweet
and comforting things to them, which though they forgot in
the terror and confusion that shortly followed, John afterward
remembered and wrote of it all. And it hath come down to
us, even to this day. Likev/ise he prayed with them. After

210

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

that they sang a last hymn together, and went forth into
the night.

Now when they were come to the Mount of Olives, they
went into a garden there, called Gethsemane, which is, being
interpreted, the oil press; for many great olive trees grew
therein; and there was also a stone trough, where, in the
season, it was the custom to tread the oil from the ripe fruit.
It was a calm and peaceful spot, well beloved by the Mas-
ter as a place of prayer and rest. Overhead the great Pass-
over moon shed a flood of mellow light, which, sifting through
the new leaves, lay in silvery patches on the ground beneat^h.
As they entered the garden, Jesus said to his disciples, "Sit
ye here, while i go and pray yonder."

Then taking Peter and James and John, he passed further
on among the gnarled trunks of the olives.

"My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death," he said
at length, his eyes dim with anguish. " Tarry ye here and
watch." And the three stopped, as they were bidden, throwing
themselves down on the soft spring grass, to wait his pleasure".
And he went from them about a stone's cast, and kneeled
down; and they heard him praying:

" Abba, Father, all things are possible unto thee; if thou be
willing, remove this cup from me; nevertheless not my will,
but thine be done."

And as they sat apart, and watched him there, a confused
drowsiness and heaviness of spirit fell upon them, so that they
could no longer see nor hear distinctly. They fancied that
they discerned dimly the radiant figure of an angel, stooping
over that prostrate form— or was it but the silver light of the

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

211

moonbeams falling interruptedly through the branches? Their
spirits were drowned in that strange slumber which held them
fast, so that they could not move, though they dimly knew
his agony.

Was it only the sleep of tired men, or was it that omnipo-
tence deemed the scene too sacred for mortal eyes to look
upon .? Be that as it may, the man Jesus sorely longed for
human sympathy, and when he came— his brow crimsoned
with the anguish of his soul-and found them asleep, he cried
with bitter disappointment:

"What, Simon! Could ye not watch with me one hour.?
Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation." Then
tenderly: " The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak."
Then he went away the second time and prayed, saying:
" Oh, my Father, if this cup may not pass away from me,
except I drink it, thy will be done!"

And he came and found them asleep again, for their eyes
were heavy; neither could they, when he awoke them~in the
dim confusion of their senses— make him any answer.

Verily might he have said, in the words of David: "Thy
rebuke hath broken my heart. 1 am full of heaviness; I
looked for some one to have pity on me, but there was no
man; neither found 1 any to comfort me."

And he left them, and went away again and prayed the
third time, saying the same words.

Afterward coming to his disciples, he found them still sleep-
ing. Looking upon them compassionately he said: "Sleep on
now, and take your rest; bv^hold, the hour hath drawn near,
and the Son of man is betrayed into the hands of sinners."

212

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

Then he raised himself up, and listened intently. The
hour was even now come; for he heard the sound of tramping
feet, and causrht the firjimmer of torches throu,frh the darkness.
Turning to the sleepers he cried aloud, "Rise! Let us be
going ! Behold, he is at hand that doth betray me."

" How knowest thou that we shall find him yonder.?" queried
Jochanan impatiently, as he stumbled along at the side of
Judas through the half darkness.

The man looked up, and by the irregular flame of the torch
which he carried, Jochanan caught the look on his face; and
hardened as he was, he recoiled from it.

" He will be there. I know the place well. He goeth there
— to pray."

" Thou knowest that we must lose no time," 'said Jochanan.
half apologetically. He had an unaccountable horror of
this man.

" ' What thou doest, do quickly.' They were his words to
me," said Judas.

And again Jochanan felt that icy shiver " Ugh ! The
wind is chill !" he said, wrapping his cloak closer about him.

Judas laughed, long and loud, and muttered something
to himself. "^

"How shall we be sure of seizing the right man, if we be
fortunate enough to find him .?" continued Jochanan.

The man laughed again, a mirthless sound and terrible to
hear. "I shall kiss him!" he answered.

Jochanan wrapped his cloak still closer about him. "The
man is a devil !" he muttered. " I wish I had compelled Issa-

THUS: A COMRADE OF TAd CI.'OSS.

213

He is too dainty fine, though, for an errand

char to come,
lilce this."

Then he spoke no more, save to ijive a few sharp orders to
the irregular mob of temple police and Roman soldiers, which
followed them.

"This is the place," said Judas at length, pausing before
what dimly appeared to be a stone gateway. " Follow where
I lead." And he strode away into the uncertain darkness of
the garden.

" The fellow is mad !" said Jochanan impatiently to Mal-
chus. '"Twere impossible to capture the man in a place like
this. He hath a thousand chances to escape."

But even as he spoke, he caught at :he arm of the hi-h
priest's serv'ant. " Who is that, yonder?"

Malchus looked, and saw in the half darkness the figure of
a man. Did he imagine it .?-or was there a mysterious bright-
ness—a dim shining? Hark! There was a voice!
"Whom seek ye?"

All were silent for a moment, save for the hiss of an awed
whisper among the superstitious soldiers. Then Jochanan
gathering courage, said boldly: '

" We seek Jesus of Nazareth."
And the answer came calm and clear, "I am he."
Something in that voice struck terror to the cowardly hearts
of the mob. Starting back with a common impulse, they
stumbled confusedly over one another, with muttered impreca-
tions, and cries of fear.

Again the voice and the question: " Whom seek ye?"
And again they made answer: "Jesus of Nazareth."

2J4

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

" I have told you that I am he; if therefore ye seek me, let
these so their way." That the sayin^r mi^rht be fulfilled which
he spake. " Of them which thou fjavest me have 1 lost none."
And Judas, peerinjr sharply into the darkness, saw that the
other disciples were there also, albeit shrinking fearfully in
the background. Then all the old, long-smothered hate and
envy burst forth within him. He started forward with a bound
like that of a wild animal, and grasping the arm of Jesus,
cried aloud, " Hail, Rabbi !" and kissed him.

The others looked to see him smitten to the earth; l'!t the
Master only said sorrowfully: "Judas, betrayest thou the Son
of man with a kiss?"

At this Peter started forward impetuously. " Lord ! shall
we smite with the sword ?" he cried. And without awaiting
the answer, he drew his weapon, and with a fierce but badly
aimed blow, struck off the ear of the high priest's servant,
who was advancing to lay hold of Jesus.

" Peter, put up thy sword into the sheath," said the calm,
authoritative voice of the Master. "The cup which my
Father hath given me, shall I not drink it ? Thinkest thou
that I cannot now pray to my Father, and he shall presently
give me more than twelve legions of angels.? But how then
shall the Scriptures be fulfilled, that thus it must be.?"

Then turning to the soldiers, who had grasped him tightly
by the arms, he said: "Suffer ye thus far." And reac^hing
forth his hand, he touched the wounded man, and healed him.
Jochanan and the officers of the temple, forgetting their
fears, were now crowding about him with insulting curiosity.
To them he said:

TITUS : A COAIIMDE OF THE CROSS.

215

" Are ye come out, as nrrainst a thief, with swords and with
staves for to take me? 1 sat daily with you, teaching in the
emp!e,and ye laid no hold on me. But this is your hour, and
the power of darUn.^ss."

When the disciples heard these ill-omened words, they
were panic-stricken. Givinjr one last terrified jrlance at their
Master and Lord, apparently helpless in the brutal grasp of
ti.e mob, they all forsook him and tied.

Now it chanced that a friendless lad, weary after a lonff
day of wandering, had sunken down in the shelter of the wall
to sleep. He had removed his outer garment, using it as a
coverlet from the cold night dews, and had rolled others of
his garments into a pillow for his head.

Steeped in the heavy slumber of sorrow and loneliness he
hao heard nothing of the disturbance at first; but the trium-
phant shout as the mob passed out of the gateway aroused
him. and a chance word from one of them brought him to his
feet in an instant.

"The Nazarene"! Could it be! Without stopping an
instant to reflect, he seized his abba and flinging it ove'^r his
shoulders, ran after the retreating throng. In a moment he
had caught up with them, and the red glare of a torch fallincr
upon him. revealed him plainly to the s)ldiers who brou'rin
up the rear. Starting forward, one of th.^m seized him by the
garment, crying out as he did so:

" Here is one of them now! Let us take him also."
But at that, he slipped away, leaving his linen abba in the
hands of the soldier, who gaped stupidly after him, as he fled
half naked into the darkness.

216

TITUS : A COMRADE OF TflE CROSS.

.f-^Mi'

CHAPTER XXVI.

TOP here !" commanJed Jochanan, rinirjnjr
the bell at the massive portal loudly and
imperatively as he spoke.

After some delay, the porter opened
the door cautiously— for it was now late in
the niijht— and peered out.

" Tell thy master to come down quickly!"
cried Jochanan impatiently, for he was
wearv.
"Ah, 'tis thou, worshipful lord I" said the man. "I have
orders to admit thee." And he threw the door wide open.

The temple officers, to^rether with Malchus and Jochanan;
the two soldiers, who were j^rasping the prisoner between
them; and lastly, the betrayer, Judas, filed into the (jateway.
The others, obeying the command of Jochanan, waited outside.
They had scarcely entered the great courtyard when Annas
came hastily in. "Thou hast the man!" he exclaimed joy-
fully, as his eye fell upon Jesus. " 'Tis well !"

Then turning to Judas: "Thou art indeed a shrewd fellow,
and much to be commended for the discreet way in which
thou hast managed this affair. The thirty pieces of silver are
thine; take them and begone. We have no further need of
thy services." And carelessly tossing a small purse toward the
man, he drew nearer the prisoner, that he might feast his eyes
on the welcome sight.

TITUS: A COMRADE OF THE CHOSS. 217

•

Judas stooped, and snatchinnr the purse from the jrround
skulked out into the darkness. He had not once Ir.nked at
Jesus, hut he felt those eyes upon him. They were f<.ll,.vvin.r
him. The purse in his hosom burnt like a living c.n.?
"God !" he shrieked aloud. And ajrain and attain he shrieked,
as he rushed madly on in the black ni«ht. His punishment
had begun.

"Thou hast bound the man most carelessly," said Annas at
lenffth, drawinfT back as he spoke.

He had intended to make a preliminary examination of the
prisoner; but now he suddenly determined that it might be
better to wait. He felt strangely shaken and faint. " ! am an
old man," he thought, "and over-weary; I must spare myself.
Besides, there is to me something most unpleasant about the
aspect of this man, though he is quiet enough."

Then he continued aloud: "See thou to his bonds; make
them secure, then remove him to the house of Caiaphas. 1
myself will take some refreshment and be there at once."

" Is it thou, Peter?" said a voice.

"'Tis no other. Hark! Have they gone? Where arc the
rest ? "

" Nay, 1 know not," said John, sorrowfully. " 'Twas even
as he said: ' Smite the shepherd, and the sheep are scattered '
-I know not why I tied; 'twas a cowardly act. I am goincr to
seek him; it may be that they will let him go in the morning."

" They will not let him go in the morning— nor at all," said
Peter bitterly.

218

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

" But it may be that he will escape out of their hands. He
hath the power," said John hopefully.

•' He hath had the power, but what if he hath it no lonfrer?"
answered Peter. " He hath said many things of late, hard to
be understood. Said he not, even as they bound him, ' ft is
your hour and the power of darkness'?"

John was silent for a moment. Then he said in a firm voice:
" I shall find him; wilt thou go also?"

" Yes, 1 will go," answered Peter gloomily, " But what can
we do alone? and where wilt thou seek him ?"

"At the palace of the high priest. 1 heard them give a\e
order, as they passed me in the darkness."

The two men were silent, as they strode rapidly on towards
the city. It was no time for words and each was absorbed in
his own unhappy thoughts.

" This is the place," said John at length. " We will go in,"
—knocking upon the portal as he spoke.

The door opened almost immediately. Peter shrank back
into the darkness.

" Go thou in," he whispered. " I will wait here; it may be
that he is not there."

John passed in without replying; and soon Peter heard
the portress greet him by name, as she closed the ponder-
ous door.

He leaned back against the stone wall, and the moments
dragged slowly by. He was growing weary and cold. He
half wished that he had gone in with John. "I will go
away," he thought. Then the words which he himself
had spoken in a happier day, flashed back into his mind.

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS. 219

"Lord to whom shall we go? Thou hast the words of

rol-all ^ost. """''' '''''' '''^'' '' "°- ^- '' --
At this moment the door opened and John came out. Peter
saw his face by the light which streamed from the open pas-
sage-way; it was pale and grave.

him h"'f '' ?.''!'•' ^' ''''^- "^^''" "°^ '^^y ^'^ questioning
him^ before the high priest Wilt thou come in ?"

" Yes," answered Peter, " I will go in."
John spoke briefly with the portress, and she admitted
them both, looking curiously at Peter as he passed. " Go in
yonder, she said, pointing with her finger.

"Ah, there is a fire!" said Peter. " 1 am cold." And with-
out wa.tmg for John, he walked rapidly toward the cheerful
blaze, around which stood a number of persons

He shivered as he spread his hands over the fire, and
glanced furtively about him. He saw nothing of Jesus; and
presently feehng more at his ease, he sat down, as did some of
the others.

They were all talking among themselves. " Hast thou seen
Malchus.?" said one.

" Yes, I have seen him."

" Didst thou know that one of the disciples of the Naz-
arene smote off his ear?"

"No! Is it so.?" broke in another.

" He smote it off with a single blow of his sword," con-
tmued the speaker. "And the Nazarene touched the wound
and It was whole."

" What meanest thou— the ear?"

220

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

" In truth, just as it was before the blow was struck."
"A marvel indeed ! But not more wonderful than many
other tales they tell of him."

" Why do they seize the man and bring him hither? What
hath he done amiss?"

" For one thin- he hath spoken against the priesthood; in
my own hearing, he called them no better than whited sep-
ulchers— fair without, but within full of pollution."

" Little wonder then that they are his enemies; he should
have been more discreet."

"Aye; but there is truth in his words," said the first
speaker, sinking his voice. "I know many things myself,
which, if told, would make a pretty scandal."

"The truth should not always be spoken," replied the
other. "Even a lie is useful at times." And the man laughed
loudly, with a knowing leer at his companion.

" Did they seize the fellow who was so ready with his
sword ?" said another.

Peter shrank back a little from the light, and wished him-
self safely outside. Before anyone had a chance to answer
the question, the portress sauntered leisurely up to the fire
Her eye at once fell upon Peter; and she said loudly: "Art
not thou also one of this man Jesus' disciptes?"

En ery one turned hastily. Peter sprang to his fefet, shakin^r
with fear. " Woman!" he stammered out, " 1 know him not''-
I know not what thou meanest !" '

Then assuming an air of indifference, he sauntered leis-
urely out into the passage leading to the street, intending to
slip away at the first good opportunity. As he sank down on

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS,

221

one of the benches there, to try and collect his scattered
thoughts, he heard the distant crowing of a cock.

"Tis near morning," he thought to himself.

Presently he was startled by a voice: "This fellow was
also with Jesus of Nazareth. Marta told me that he came in
with the other; and we all know that he is a disciple."

Peter sprang up with a smothered oath. " What meanest
thou, woman! I do not know the man."

Then he wandered uneasily back into the courtyard arrain
though he knew not why he lingered. " 1 may as well go
back to Capernaum," he said to himself sullenly. "The
dream is ended."

As he leaned against one of the pillars, thinking thus
gloomily within himself, a man came up before him and
flashed the light of a torch which he was holding full in
his f;!ce.

"Who art thou?" he asked curiously; then getting no
answer to his question, he bethought himself that he had seen
that face before, and lately. "Did 1 not see thee in the gar-
den with the Nazarene.?" he continued.

" Thou didst not !" answered Peter stoutly.

"Surely thou art one of them!" insisted the man, who
was of kin to Malchus. " For thou art a Galilean; thy speech
betrayeth it."

Stung to frenzy by these words, and a horrible inward con-
sciousness of his perfidy, the wretched man burst out into a
torrent of oaths and curses. " I tell thee I know not this man
of whom ye speak!" And the second time, he heard the crow-
ing of the cock.

f 'W

222

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

He looked wildly about him that he might escape his
tormentors; suddenly he saw that they were bringing his
Master, bound and helpless, into the courtyard-his Master
whom he had vowed to love and to follow, even to prison
and to death!

And Jesus turned and looked upon him; that look sanl:
deep into the soul of Peter. He remembered the word of
the Lord, how he had said unto him: " Before the cock crow
twice, thou Shalt deny me thrice." And he went out and
wept bitterly.

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

223

CHAPTER XXVII.

-f=T

^^=^ELL us now of thy disciples, and of
thy doctrines which thou hast been
teaching the people. Thou mayst as
well make full confession; it will assur-
edly imperil thy cause to keep back
anything from us at this time."

The Sanhedrim was already in sol-
emn session, though it was scarcely
dawn. In the midst of the semicircle
sat Caiaphas in the full dignity of his
priestly robes. On his right was Annas,
on his left Jochanan, and the others in
the order of their official rank. Before
them, his hands bound behind his back,

and closely guarded on either side by the temple police, stood

Jesus.

" Answer me, fellow!" said Caiaphas sternly.
The prisoner raised his eyes, and looked full at the high
priest.

" I have spoken openly to the world," I lid calmly. '^ I
taught ever in the synagogue, and in the temple, whither the
Jews always resort, and in secret have I said nothing. Why
askest thou me? Ask them which heard me, what 1 have said
unto them; behold, they know what I said."

" Answerest thou the high priest so?" said one of the men

?■ .

:iN<a

ill

224

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

Who stood by him. And as he spoke the words, he struck
him upon the mouth.

For a moment the prisoner was silent. Then he said
calmly as before, with no sign of passion at the foul insult-
If 1 have spoken evil, bear witness of the evil; but if well'
why smitest thou me?"

" He asketh for witnesses," said Annas with a sn-er " Let
+hem be brought."

There was a little stir, as one of the temple officials entered

tollowed by a small, wizened old man.

" Dost thou know the prisoner?" asked Caiaphas

" I do, reverend lord," answered the man in a high, quaver-

ing voice. " He is a Galilean carpenter, name Jesus.' He is a

brawler, and is always surrounded by crowds."

"What knowest thou of his teachings?" said Annas with a
gratified smile.

" He saith pernicious things, my lord ! I, myself, heard
h.m say to the multitude, Beware of the Scribes, and especially
of the high priests, for they care for nothing so much as to go
about in long robes, and have the best of everything Th-^v
make long prayers for a show, and at the same tim^e devour
the widows and fatherless. They are hypocrites and fools
and shall be thrust into hell, with all that follow their words
What say ye to that, my good lords? Those be his teachinasi"
A fierce murmur ran about the circle. *

" 'Tis true! I heard something like it myself !" came from
one and another.

The old man was elated by the sensation which he had
made. Turning his rheumy eyes upon the prisoner, he pointed

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

225

ds, he struck

nnas with a

at him a skinny, shaking finder. " Ha, '-How! thou didst heal
me, three years apro, of the palsy, which had withered my
limbs; and in so doing took away my living, for my beo-ainrr
no longer brought me money. They told me to work! "res'
work!-an old man like me! Now is not that a shame, my
good lords? I led a gay life, at ease on my bed; but now I
must needs work, or starve, for thou madest me-an old man
—as strong as an ox."

"Take him away!" commanded Caiaphas. And he was

led out, still gesticulating, and talking in his high, shrill voice.

After that followed in rapid succession a number of other

witnesses, who were examined at some length by Caiaphas,

but without eliciting anything of importance.

At last, when Annas and the others were beginning to
despair of an acceptable pretext to put the prisoner to de'ath,
two witnesses were brought in.

"We were together when this man spoke in the temple"
said one of them, "and we heard him say, I will destrov this
temple that is built with hands, and within three days'l will
build another, made without hands."

"Nay!" said the other, "thou art wrong! He said, if ye
destroy this temple which ye were forty and three years in
building, I will restore it in three days."

" Well, is not that the same thing?" exclaimed the first
contemptuously.

" Not at all !" cried the other, with heat. " Thou hast the
ears of an ass!"

"Is this the place for your disputings ?" said Caiaphas,
angrily. " Officer, remove these witnesses!"

226

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

Then he rose to his feet, and fixing his eyes upon Jesus,
who still stood calmly and quietly in his place, he said sternly:'
" Answerest thou nothing? What is it that these witness
against thee?"

But he seemed not to have heard the question. From his
eyes shone a strange brightness, a holy calm. Was he think-
ing that the hour was at hand for the fulfillment of his words?

The high priest looked at him steadily, and said in a loud
and solemn voice: " 1 adjure thee by the living God, that thou
tell us whether thou be the Christ, the Son of God."

Then the prisoner, the despised Nazarene, his hands bound,
his garments torn and defiled, with violence, the mark of the
insulting blow still visible on his white face, made him answer:
" 1 am the Christ, the Son of God. And 1 say unto you, that
hereafter ye shall see the Son of man sitting on the right hand
of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven."

Then did the high priest rend his garments, and he cried
aloud saying: "He hath spoken blasphemy! What further
need have we of witnesses? Behold, now ye have heard his
blasphemy; what think ye?"

And they all answered, as with one voice: "He is Tuilty'
Let him die!"

Then they led him away to a room underneath in the
palace; and there did the servants, and the hirelings of the
temple, gather themselves together, that they might look upon
him who was condemned to die. And they struck him with
the palms of their hands, and spit upon him, crying out:
"This is he that shall sit in the clouds of heaven! Behold
him! The Christ— the Messiah— the worker of miracles!"

TITUS : A CO/MRADE OF THE CROSS.

227

Then did one of them cast a garment over his head, so
that it covered his face; and Ihey began to buffet him, calling
out: "Prophesy unto us, thou prophet of Galilee! Who
smote thee?"

And these things they did until they were weary.

Now when Caiaphas passed out of the council chamber, he
went into an inner room of the palace, that he might eat and
refresh himself before going with the prisoner to Pilate. And
there Anna, his wife, found him.

"What hast thou done to the Nazarene?" she asked; and
her face was white, and her eyes had a strange fire in them.

"We have found him guilty, even as 1 knew. He shall
shortly be delivered into the hand of the governor," said Cai-
aphas. "I am weary," he continued irritably, "and care not
to speak of the thing with thee. Thou art a woman, and
knowest naught of affairs of state. Leave me!"

"Nay, I will not leave thee, till I have said what 1 will,"
answered Anna. " The man is a prophet; and curses will
come upon this house, if thou dost persist in persecuting him."
"Woman!" cried Caiaphas, starting to his feet, "the man is
a blasphemer! But lately in my presence he solemnly
affirmed that he was the Christ, the Son of God, and would
hereafter sit on the right hand of power!"

" Oh, Joseph, my husband !" cried Anna, shuddering,
"what if it be so! Release him, I beseech of thee: and let
him go into his own country."

" Thou art a woman, and therefore a fool !" sr.id Caiaphas,
with bitter emphasis. " A.^nin 1 tell thee to Icr.ve me!"

' fl I

Ifl

il J
a M K >

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

"Speakest thou so to the dau/rhter of Annas!" cried his
wife, with flashing eyes. " 1 will leave thee! But thou shalt
yet remember my warning, and weep tears of blood that thou
hast troduei. it under foot." And turning, she swept stately
from the chamber.

It was still early in the morning when an imposing ueputa-
tion, with Jesus, bound and doubly guarded, in their midst,
waited upon Pilate the governor.

" It is not lawful for us to enter into the palace, lest we be
defiled," said Caiaphas, "therefore bid Pilate come forlli
unto us."

And Pilate, knowing full well the temper of the people witii
whom he had to deal, complied at once. It was, moreover, n
accordance with the Roman custom to hold courts of justice in
the open air; so that there was in front of the palace, for this
purpose, a raised tribunal, known as the Pavement, sirre it
was laid with a mosaic of many-colored marbles. Here, then,
Pilate caused them to place his curule chair of wrought' ivory
—the seat of state, and the sign of his office— and here he sat
himself down.

And they brought Jesus, and set him before the governor,
his accusers ranging themselves on either side; while a great
multitude, which momently increased as the tidings of the
arrest flew from mouth to mouth, surged uneasily up to the
very edges of the tribunal, where they were kept at bay by a
strong detachment of Roman troops.

Now Pilate was not altogether ignorant concerning Jesus.
Always fearful of insurrections among the people, he had, by

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS. 229

man So that ,t was with some acerbity that he not his fir t

rt;!:: ''' '''-'■ -- --- "-e^riortrt:

;; What accusation bring ye against this man?"
It he were not a rrr ipfirf^r "

Hau«Hti.„ ., we wo„,a not i::'Z.jz': .^t:^

your'JlZsrnTrl "^';L:t ^^.^^ t"" """■"^'-
sneer •• R„t it i, 1 ' " '^''•"''. with a covert

sneer. But it hardly seemeth a case for my interference
Take ye h,m .nd judge him according to your iL."

triflinl as' hof ""'"' "" '""' ''"'"'' *'^ "'- '^ "<>* »
uMiiiiy as thou seemest tn thinly" ^^ , ^

voice shaking with an.er ..»!,.' TT '^'''"''"'- '"'
inal charge. We h "e so f„, ,1 t l'' °' "'■'* °" » ""^■

endZn::.*" """ '^ '"""'" ^^"^^ ''"^'^ '" ^ '""e of polite
ding"o paTtHbuT t'o'c"' ""'' *^ "^''°" """ ^-' '-"■"■

230

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

by this charjnre-the most damninjr of all in the ears of a
Roman governor— and ready to make quick work of the hated
Nazarene. But they were disappointed. With no perceptible
change in his face, he arose deliberately from his seat, and
ordering the guard to bring the prisoner, strode into the judg-
ment hall.

When he had sat himself down, he said to Jesus: "Art
thou the king of the Jews?"

"Sayest thou this thing of thyself?" answered the prisoner,
"or did others tell it thee of me?"

" Am I a Jew ?" said. Pilate scornfully. " Thine own nation
and the chief priests have delivered thee unto me. What hast
thou done?"

And Jesus, locking full into his face, made answer: " My
kingdom is not of this world; if my kingdom were of this
world, then would my servants fight, that I should not be
delivered to the Jews. But now is my kingdom not
from hence."

"Art thou a king, then.?" said Pilate, st, ring at him
curiously.

"Thou sayest it; 1 am a King," he answered. "To this
end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, t'lat
I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the
truth heareth my voice."

" Truth !" said Pilate, with a light, ironical laugh. " What
is truth ?"

'Twas a mere word, an empty sound, to this Roman
voluptuary.

Then he arose from his seat without further question or

TITUS : A COAUMDE OF THE CROSS. 231

comment, and went out affain to the tribunal, where the Jewi.h

Pilate looked at them scornfully; he thoroughly despised
sat himself down, and waited a moment for the fierce mur
1 nnd in him no fault at all "

schemr;a,r.orrnd -"l:'.' t^ s"t"^ '"''"'
out of their very clutches ' Nrver, Aftc "h IT" "'"'",

'::::trz "" -''-' '-"■ °- ^^^^'^^- ^^^

priests and elders arose to speak, each vyin. with the oth .
.n e V ie,3,3„d virulence of the charges whicrtey.elre"

men" ZVZ""' ""' '"" '''" "™"«^* '"''< ""-' ''-4

"Dost ,H T :"""« '" "'^ "'" P' ■ '" »^ "id^t
thee>" said Piht"" T "'"' ""'"'' '^ese witness against

eend, yself Th "T"" ''"■ "'^'^^ '"'' *°" -'
uciena tnyselt > Thou hast my permission."

But Jesus was silent,
to himsei,''"?'.!'' 't- " "' " ••■ ^'""«^ ™" ■• he .ho„,h.

eCr;of::cM^:;--:-'rr:'f::
ht x> "^^ "'""^ -°^- —'-Idas:::;

scanratte"ntiorR'r'''"^'*'™*'' ''"^'e was giving him but
scant attention But now a sentence caught his ear.

fr„„, r' f!"T ? "" P"''"'^ throughout all Jewry, be-rinnin-
from Galilee to this place." ■'e»iiining

232

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

"Galilee!" exclaimed Pilate. An idea had struck him.
" Didst thou say that he is a Galilean?"

" He is, your Excellency," replied Jochanan.

" Very well, then. I shall send him to Herod. He is even
now in the city, and it were most fitting that he should judae
a man from his own province." '^

He arose from his seat, and gave the necessary orders, then
retired to his palace, feeling well pleased with himself for this
master-stroke of diplomacy. '< By this means," he thoucrht
complacently, " I shall rid myself of all further trouble in this
matter, which is likely to be unpleasant enough. Moreover it
will flatter Herod, and ! shall thus be able to appease his wrJth
for that little affair in the temple." And he commanded his
slaves to bring him refreshments.

"Didst thou say that Pilate had sent me the Nazarene for
judgment ?" asked Herod, starting up from the purple cushions
where he was lolling, sick with ennui, in the Asmonean Palace.
" Nay, but that is good news! 1 have always wished to see
the fellow! He shall perform a miracle for me, such as I have
heard of. He shall make me some choice wine from water-
heal this sore on my limb, and-well, I shall think of other
things afterward. Bring him into our presence at once. And
stay!-call the court together; 'twere meet to provide some
amusement to relieve the deadly tedium of this place. So that
IS the man!"-as they brought in Jesus and set him in the
royal presence, the high priests and elders, regardless now of
defilement, crowding in after him. " And who are these.?"
" The chiefs of the Jewish nation," one made answer."

'***-:, t-tf.

struck him.

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS. 233

enouah "Cn„lTh "If ^" "=""'= -'"-'hough he knew well

lie tou.i, would he not work one now ?"

But tj.j prisoner was silent

Herod was at firs, rather flattered by this. "He feareth

h^^r^: Ct-'tf^e'S-r'-o'' t; ^° «'^"

Thou sha,t have wine it .ZTZJ^:^^^" ^-^•
-atJ^ilSeC " «"'"'^' "'^ ^^°«-^ -P. -"
denun!- ttt''''^-^'""^^"" ""■ ^-^ f°* i-to a„,ry

;^p>{f^i:ttr--:-;-.^-

truth to tell, 1 have for^^otten it " '

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

"Now, good sirs," said Herod, turning his eyes wickedly
upon the members of the Sanhedrim, "doth he not Iool<
majestic? A king indeed ! Let all do him homage."

And the courtiers and soldiers pressed forward in mock
adulation.

But Herod, watching from his chair of state, saw something
in the aspect of the prisoner which made him feel uncomfort-
able. " He hath a look which I like not," he muttered, " nor
yet this silence; 'tis unnatural. Suppose he should do some
awful thing now; they say that he hath unlimited powers."

With an imperative gesture, he summoned one of his
officers. " Take the fellow away!" he said. " Take him back
to Pilate."

"Shall we takeoff the robe, your Highness?" asked the
attendant.

"No, no!" answered Herod, hastily. " Take him just as he
is — and quickly. Clear the room of all these,"— indicating the
Jews with a sweeping gesture.

So it happened that Pilate was once agairj called forth into
the judgment seat, and confronted with Jesus.

TITUS : A COiMRADE OF THE CROSS.

235

d in mock

CHAPTER XXVIII.

T was with a frowning brow that the gov-
ernor again seated himself in his ivory chair
of state. "Ye have brought this man unto
me," he said, " as one that perverteth the
people; and, behold, I, having examined him
before vou. ,,ave found no fault in him
touchmg those things n!.,,..of ye accuse him. No, nor yet
Herod; for I sent you .„ ...m with the prisoner; and, lo! he
hath sent him back to me uncondemned. I will therefore
scourge him and let him go."

He said this, hoping that the scourging, a terrible punish-
ment m Itself, might appease the wrath of the Jews.

The multitude, which now numbered thousands-and as
Pilate saw, of the lowest and most debased portion of the pop-
ulation-gave a savage, inarticulate cry, like that of a wild
heart.

"What do they say.?" asked Pilate, speaking to the Roman
official who stood beside him. '

"Release! Release unto us a prisoner!" replied the man
■ " They are right !" said Pilate, bethinking himself joyfully
of the time-honored custom of releasing a prisoner to the
people at feast time. And he arose and cried aloud: " Will ye
that I release unto you the king of the Jews.?"

Now it happened that the chief priests knew of the con-
demnation of Barabbas.and how he lay bound in the dungeons

236

TITUS : A CG iRADE OF THE CROSS.

' s'

Of Antonia. sentenced to suffer crucifixion on that very day
wliich 'vas the fifteenth of Nisan.

So Jochanan, and other wise ones of their number, mixinrr
with the multitude, craftily brought to their remembrance how
Barabbas was about to suffer for his loyalty to the nation
And when the multitude heard their words, they began, with
one accord, to yell: " Barabbas! Barabbas!" till the whole city
was aroused, and thousands more came running to the palace
to see what had happened. And all joined in the cry for
Barabbas.

Then Pilate said unto them: "What shall I do then with
Jesus, who is called Christ ?" <

The chief priests answered: " Let him be crucified !"

And the mob, mad with excitement, and thirsting for blood
echoed with a cry which has rung adown the ages: " Crucify
him! Crucify him! Away with him! Crucify him!"

At this moment one of the officials handed to Pilate an
ivory tablet with something written thereon. And he read
this warning message from his wife:

''Have thou nothing to do with that just man; for I have
suffered many things this day in a dream because of him

" Claudia."

Then, more anxious than e/er to save him, he said unto
them for the third time: " Why, what evil hath he done.? I
have found no cause of death in him; I will therefore chastise
him and let him go."

But the chief priests saw that he feared the people; and
again they raised the cry: "Crucify him! Crucify him!"

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS. 237

And^ again the multitude echoed the words with their hideous

Pilate lool<ed out from his throne over that threatening
mob, and his heart was as wax within him. " I cannot save
the man he muttered. "'Tis too late. And what doth it
matter, after all— one Jew less in Jerusalem."
"Bring me water in a basin!" he commanded.
And when it was brought, he stood up and washed his
hands m sight of them all. saying solemnly, " I am innocent of
the blood of this just person. See ye to it."

And all the people answered him with the awful words:
His blood je upon us, and upon our children'"
Then he released unto them Barabbas, and commanded
that Jesus should be scourged and afterward crucified

Barabbas came forth out of the prison; and waen he heard
what had been done, he said scornfully to his fellows: "Said I
not that the man was a coward !"

Now Pilate, the trial being ended, went into his palace with
a heavy heart. And as he was seeking to withdraw himself
into an inner room, he came upon his wife, Claudia.

" Didst thou receive the warning I sent thee?" she asked
"1 received it; but it was too late," said Pilate, falterin-r '

'Too late!" said Claudia. ^' What meanest thou.? Is'^'the
man dead .?" ^

"No. He still lives, but-well -I-I have sentenced him
to the cross They are even now scourging him. ! could not
help It! Thou shouldst have seen the mob-it was frightful »
And those cries-they ring in my ears still!" And the
wretched man pressed his hands to his head wildly

n'J-.f

238

»^

TITUS: A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

Claudia looked at him with wide, glassy eyes. Her face
was ghastly. "Thou hast condemned him?" she whispered
hoarsely, "and to the cross! Then may the gods help us!
We are undone!" And she wildly f.ed, leaving Pilate alone.

Then the soldiers took Jesus, and when they had stripped
him of his upper garments, they bound him to a low pillar so
that is back was bowed. And they took scourges, made of
heavy thongs of leather, weighted at the ends with jagged
pieces of iron, and they beat him upon his naked back until
they were weary. Then they lifted him up, and putting on
him again the white robe with which Herod had mocked him
they dragged him into the judgment hall. And the whole'
band came together to look at him there.

"Let us worship him!" cried one, "even as did Herod,"
The saying pleased them. Stripping off the white robe
which Herod had put on him-white no longer, for it was
crimsoned with his blood-they clothed him with an old scarlet
mantle, which belonged to one of them. Then one broucrht
in branches of the thorn tree, and they made of the
branches a crown, and drove it down about his temples-
and they put a reed in his hand for a sceptre. Then they
laughed aloud, a. they looked upon him, till the ftall echoed
with the horrid sound; and bowing the knee, they cried
"Hail! King of the Jews!" Snatching the sceptre from his
pinioned hands, they smote him on the head with it. And
they spit in his face.

In the midst of this their brutal sport, Pilate came upon
them.

. Her face
; whispered
is help us!
ilate alone.

id stripped
w pillar, so
^s, made of
ith jagged
back until
putting on
'cked him,
the whole

lerod."

vhite robe

'or it was

old scarlet

2 brought

e of the

temples;

'hen they

ill echoed

ley cried,

from his

it. And

me upon

"Claudia looked at him with wide, ^rlassy eyes."- Page 238.

riTUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

239

" Bring him forth!" he commanded savagely. And he went
out again to the judgment seat, being minded yet to save the
man, for the sake of his wife Claudia, and because he, himself,
feared— he knew not what.

He stood up before the multitude, which had grown so
great that he could see nothing but one mighty sea of faces,
upturned to look upon him as he stood above them there.
And he pointed to Jesus standing beside him, wearing the
scarlet cloak and the crown of thorns, his face stained with
blood and befouled with insult, his eyes dim with agony, yet
withal transfigured into something so divine that Pilate cried
with genuine pity and reverence in his tones, "Behold
the man!"

It was as if he would have said: See him so agonized and
yet so innocent ! Hath he not suffered enough? Will ye not
pity him and save him?

But the chief priests and officers of the temple were mad
for his blood; they had waited for over three hours in the
blazing sun, for him to be brought forth unto them. Pilate's
appeal, and the piteous look of the prisoner, only added fresh
fuel to the flame which was devouring them.

"Crucify him!" they yelled hoarsely. And again and
again, " Crucify him!"

Then said Pilate in a sudden rage: "Take ye him and
•crucify him; for I find no fault in him."

But the Jews, willing to justify themselves in the sight of
the multitude, answered him: "We have a law, and by our
law he ought to die; because he made himself the Son
of God."

) I'

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

When Pilate heard that saying he feared exceedingly; and
again he remembered the ghastly face of Claudia, as she said-
_ We are undone." He turned and strode once more into the
judgment hall, commanding the guard to bring the prisoner
" Whence art thou?" he demanded of Jesus.
But the prisoner made him no answer. What use to
answer this man, who was too cowardly a creature to free him
whom he had thrice acquitted !

"Speakest thou not unto me?" said Pilate fiercely, glad of
an excuse for anger. " Knowest thou not that I have power
to crucify thee, and have power to release thee.?" "

And Jesus, seeing the dark tumult in his breast, pitied him.
"Thou couldst have no power at all against me," he said
breaking the silence of many bitter hours. "Therefore he
that delivered me to thee, hath the greater sin."
And Pilate trembled before him.

Then went he forth, yet again, to the people, and spake to
them as best he knew how, for the release of the man whom
he had thrice acquitted, and twice condemned.

And they despised him and his words, and cried out, saying:
" If thou let this man go, thou art not Ca?sar's friend."

When Pilate heard the name Cassar. his soul was shaken
within him, for he remembered many things with fear. And
he commanded them to bring Jesus forth before the judgment
seat; and he said unto them, " Behold your king!" •

But they cried out, "Away with him ! Away with him »
Crucify him!"

" What !" cried Pilate. " Shall I crucify your king?"

The chief priests answered, " We have no king bu't Caesar!"

TITUS : A COMFMDE OF THE CROSS. 241

And with that word of power, they be:it down the last
feeble barrier of his will.

"Take him I" he cried hoarsely. "Take him and crucify
him. His blood be upon you!"

And they took Jesus and led him away.

When the multitude saw that he was delivered up to be cru-
cified, they flrave a miyhty and fierce cry. And sound of
It rang throu<rhout the city, and the women and children shook
with fear when they heard it; it echoed in dismal reverbera-
tions in the courts of the shining temple, and rolled awav-
away-upward-upward, till its dying sound reached even 'the
throne of God, and the angels which stand ever before the
throne hid their faces.

Now a man who wore the semblance of a wild beast had
been hanging about the outskirts of the multitude for hours
Ever and anon he tore his hair, and hisgarments-which hunrr
in shreds about him; and he raved, and cursed, and cut him''-
self with stones. But the people heeded him not. " He hath
a devil," they said. " He seeketh the Nazarene, mayhap; but
he must needs help himself now."

And when the man heard that word, he shook the matted
hair from out his eyes. "What will they do with him?" he
asked.

And they answered, "They are taking him even now to be
crucified."

At that, the man gave a great cry, and thrusting his finrrers
into his ears, ran swiftly away. And when he came to'the
temple he went in, still running, nor could anyone stop him-
so that he came even to the place where were certain of the

242

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

Chief priests and elders, who had jy:athered to^rether that they
mijrht rejoice over the murder which tliey had accomplished.

And the man cast down before them thirty pieces of silver,
and shrieked out in a woeful voice: " I have sinned, in that 1
have betrayed the innocent blood !"

And the chief priests and elders feared, when thev looked
upon the man. But Annas answered: "What is that to us?
See thou to that !"

And he fled away from the temple, and goinjr out of the
city to tl:e garden which is called Gethsemane, he hung him-
self there; that he might die in the place where he had
betrayed the Son of God with a kiss.

"And the chief priests took the silver pieces and said. It is
not lawful to put them into the treasury, because it is the
price of blood. And they took counsel, and bought with
them the potter's field, to bury strangers in. Wherefore that
field was culled the field of blood, unto this day."

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CHOSS.

243

CHAPTER XXIX.

ITUS awoke on the rnorning of the
fifteenth of Nisan, vvith a oull con-
sciousness of imper Ji;; : horn ;. This
was the day!

He stared with v, Je, unseein;?
eyes at the wall of his dungeon, and
muttered again and again, " This is
the day! This is the day! This is
the day!"

Presently he heard a sound.
Were they coming even now to take
him! He started to his feet, and crouched shuddering in
the furthest corner of his dungeon. No, 'twas only the bread
and water, thrust in by the rough hand of his jailer. He
drank greedily of the water; but the sight of the food sick-
ened him.

Then he gave himself up to the agony of listening. The
untended wound in his head had festered, and his veins ran
hot with fever. He half forgot for what he wa:. listening, as
the hours dragged slowly on; and when, at last, the great bolts
turned in their sockets, and the door opened, he started up
with crimson cheeks and a light, blood-curdling laugh.

" Thou hast come at last !" he said airily.

The centurion stared at him. " Bring him out quickly!" ho
commanded, "and bind upon him the c:-ojs."

■ i IF' ;

244

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

1 1

"What!" sail one of the soldiers. "Shall we not first
scour<re him?"

" Nay," said his superior. " 'Twas not so ordered. Besides,
we must hasten; they must all be dead by the going down of
the sun; and it is already near the sixth hour."

Quickly they bound upon his back the transverse pieces of
the cross, and hurried him out from the prison gate. As the
fresh air smote him, his dazed senses cleared a little. He saw
that Dumachus, also bearing the ominous pieces of wood, and
similarly guarded by four soldiers, was waiting in the court-
yard. He had been scourged, as his blood-stained garments
witnessed, and he was blubbering and blaspheming under
his breath.

"Ha, Jew!" he yelled hoarsely, as he caught sight of Titus.
" Now, indeed, lookest thou the son of the high priest !"

But the centurion smote him on the mouth, and bade him
be silent.

Under the escort of a strong detachment of legionaries, the
two cross-bearers were marched rapidly forward. Not far
from the prison they came to a halt.

" Why did they not bring him to Antonia?" said one of the
soldiers in a low voice.

"He hath but just been condemned; there was no time.
They will join us here," said another. " Hark! l hey are coming
now. Dost hear the roaring of the mob.?"

Then came the slow, measured tramping of soldiers: a few
sharp, quick orders; and again they moved forward.

They had reached the citv gate, and were about to pass
through, when again came the order to halt.

10 time.

coming

5: a few

to pass

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS. 245

" What is it r asked one of tlie soldiers who guarded Titus.
The fellow hath fallen under his cross." answered a man
who was perched aloft. " They have caught a stout country-
man, who but just came in, and have bound it upon him
rnou shouldst see his face!" And he burst into a great laugh.'
Outside the gate a seething mass of humanity! On either
side the road the people stood packed in serried ranks;
.they clustered ,n dense masses on roofs, and walls, and trees.
Titus looked, and his brain reeled. Had all these come out to
se. the torture of three wretched thieves?-for so read the
accusation which was bound in staring letters on his breast

Amid the savage, unceasing roar of the multitude he could
hear the shrill wailing of women. And now another sound
caught his ear; 'twas a voice which he had thought never to
hear again: "Father! Titus! Jesus!" shrieked the voice
He caught a glimpse of a white face as it fell back into
the crowd.

For the first time he struggled fiercely with his bonds.
Let me go!" he screamed.

"Hold thy peace, thief!" said the centurion savagely.
Save thy shrieks for thy cross!" And he smote him on the
head with the flat of his sword.

After weeks of fruitless search and forlorn wandering,
Stephen had reached Jerusalem. He had determined to go to
Caiaphas and give into his hand the embroidered tunic, and
tell h.m all that he knew of Titus. Ragged, hungry and foot-
sore, he had knocked at the great gate of the palace, and been
refused entrance by the portress.

U i

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

"See the high priest, indeed !" she had said scornfully.
"Go thy way, beggar!"

" But indeed," persisted Stephen, " 1 must see him. 'Tis a
matter of the sorest need."

" Well, thou Shalt not come in, for all of that. Thy urgent
business can wait !" And with a loud laugh of derision she
had slammed the heavy door in his face.

Then he had wandered away to the temple, with the vague *
hope of seeing the man he sought.

"Where is the high priest?" he inquired innocently of one
of the temple police.

"The high priest, beggar! What dost thou want of him?"
said the man.

"I must speak with him; and 1 cannot gain admittance at
his house."

" Canst thou not I" said the man derisively. " 'Tis a won-
der! They should have urged thee to come in, and given
thee the best room!"

Stephen looked steadily at the man, while a slight flush
rose to his cheek. " I am not a beggar," he said. " Though
'tis like enough that I look one. But I must see the high
priest; I would tell him of his son."

"His son!" echoed the man. "Thou art mad! He hath
no son. Go thy way. Thou canst not see the high priest.
'Tis a notable day with Caiaphas, and indeed with all of us,
for to-night we eat the Passover; and to-day we shall see a
great sight— the Nazarene is to be crucified."

"The Nazarene!" said Stephen wildly. "Crucified! Oh,
it cannot— cannot be!"

scornfully.

in. 'Tis a

hy urgent
rision she

the vague *

tly of one

: of him?"

littance at

'is a won-
md given

ght flush
" Though
the high

He hath
?h priest,
all of us,
hall see a

ed ! Oh,

rfq"
O

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS. 247

will"h."lh'^ 'T '''' ""^ ''^^"^'"* >'°""^ ^^Sff^^-' All the city
will be there to see it. 1 myself—"

But Stephen had gone. He was running wildly, thourrh he

iTS! 7''' "" -"'''''' ''^'^^'^y '^ found' hts;,' n

the m.dst of a great throng, all hurrying like himself.

Let us stop here!" shouted a man to his fellows. " We
shall see it all finely here!"

gaspeT^'" '''^'^ '' ^'""^ '^^^^'^hingly. <Ms it true?" .e

sho^^V'*'" "^'" ^'"^ "°' '"'^''- "' ^h^" ^""^b up here!" he
shouted agam, scrambling, as he spoke, into a stunted tree
which grew by the roadside. '

thousldrand'^t 'T' °"' '"" ^'^ '''y '"^'^ ''^ --^'-^

onnH h ,^ '^ '"' "^'"'''^ ^'°"^ by 't^ '•esistless tide,

f und himself near the verge of a little hillock not far from the

oS;. "^ ^'^ '''''' ^''' '''' ^-^ ^y ^ *^'P'e cordon
" Tell me," said Stephen again, this tim • to a sad-faced
woman who stood next him in the press, "what do h this
mean.. Is it true that-" and his voice broke in a sob-" th
they are going to put the Nazarene to death'"

.1h '?H ^'f '^f '"'^"■''^' " '''' *^"^- Ah' the pity of it !
;;; ed him' t" ? ''' "■^' '''''''-' '"^^y have'alway
1 n T rl"" ' '"' "^'* ^^'-^^ *'^^y '^'^ him in the

ht ling vet ' ""- '"' ''' ^°"^^" ^^^ ^- ^- -
orcLrd^y^::;" "'' ^'^^ '^^^^^" ^^^^^'^' - ^^ ^* - «^^ve

^ii

2-^! 8

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

" Yes," answered the woman, her throat quivering. " He
went there often— for quiet and prayer." And again she
stopped, strugfTJing with her tears.

"I was there," said Stephen. "I heard the noise— bnt I
knew not what il: meant. I had i-'een sleeping."

" Hark!" said the womjn. " They are coming."

Above the roar of tht (•uititude arose the sound of the
regular tread of soldiers, and pre^vMitly the vanguard of the
procession, a detachment of F.':.- rai troops, came into view.
They were marching stolidly ^'-'U'g, their shields glittering in
the bright sunshine. Then the three cross-bearers, guarded
each by a quaternion of soldiers, and bearing each upon his
breast a whitened board with the accusation for which he was
to suffer, blazoned thereon in large black letters. That of the
Nazaren:- bore the strange words: " Jesus of Nazareth, the King
of the Jews."

Stephen gave one look, and there burst from his lips that
frenzied cry: "Father! Titus! Jesus!" Then he sank back
like one dead.

The woman ceased her low wailing, and knelt at his side.
" Stand back a little, good people!" she cried. " The lad hath
fainted; he must have air."

" He is nothing but a beggar!" said a man contemptuously,
giving him a push with his foot as he spoke. " Let him be;
thou wilt lose it all. They are going to take the Nazarene first."

The woman hastily sprinkled some water from a small
gurglet, which she carried at her girdle, on the face of the
unconscious boy. Then, as if impelled by a resistless force, she
stood up and fixed her eyes upon the awful scene before her.

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

249

The soldiers were working swiftly. The Nazarene, already
stripped of his garments, was laid upon the cross, which was
lying on the ground. Now a few dull, heavy blows of the
maUet and the great nails were driven through the palms of
his outstretched hands; then through his feet, slightly dra^n
up and laid the one over the other.

And now they were lifting the cross, with its burden of
agony; dragging it roughly along, a dozen strong arms raised
it up and with a shout dropped it into the hole previously dug
to receive it.

The body of Jesus settled forward with a sickening shock.
What was it that he was saying.?—" Father, forgive them; for
they know not what they do."

Now followed the thieves; they had drunken deeply of the
drugged wine, which the Nazarene had refused. The older
man fought savagely with the soldiers, when his turn came,
but was quickly overpowered and thrown down, and amid J
torrent of horrid oaths and screams, his cross was raised to a
place on the left of the Nazarene.

Then the young man—" A mere lad!" said the woman, her
lips livid with horror. He was silent, even as the Nazarene,
save for his piteous groans.

But now the form at her feet stirred. She looked down,
then stooped, and raising his head, gave him to drink from her
water-bottle.

' God !" he gasped as he beheld the three crosses. " Mv
Jesus! My brother! My father!"

He seemed about to fall back again, but 'suddenly he leaped
up, a fierce light burning in his eyes. " Where is the high

250

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

priest?" he said wildly. "The young man is his son; he
might yet be saved !"

"Hush!" said the woman pitifully. "Thy trouble hath
crazed thee. Nothing could save him now."

The lad sank back again weakly. He had eaten notning
for hours; his brain reeled, and things looked dim and strange.

" 1 must be mad I" he said aloud. Then he was silent. He
heard vaguely the voices of the mob, as they reviled the man
on the middle cross: "Thou that destroyest the temple, and
buildest it in three days, save thyself ! if thou be the Son of
God, come down from the cross!"

And he saw a group of men gorgeously robed, who stood
near the cross, stretching out their arms with mocking ges-
tures. " He saved others; himself he cannot save. If he be
the king of Israel, let him now come down from the cross, and
we will believe him! He trusted in God; let him deliver him
now, if he will have him; for he said, I am the Son of God."

"Those be the chief priests," said the woman to Stephen.

But he made no answer.

The sun was nearly overhead now, and beating down with
noontide fierceness, but gradually the brilliant light paled;
there was a strange hush in the air. The people, frantic with
excitement, did not note the change at first; then one and
another began to look uneasily upward. There was no cloud,
no sign of storm, but the light was momently fading. Now
it was a ghastly yellow; and now it gloomed into a lurid
twilight.

The people looked at one another with white faces.
"What is it }" they whispered. Then they gazed fearfully at

fr-frsri

k •s

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS. 251

the man on the middle cross. He was hanging motionless,
his head sunicen upon his breast.

The man on the cross at the left was groaning and blas-
pheming horribly; in the frightened hush his words could be
distmctly heard. He was cursing the man at his side. " If
thou be the Christ I" he shrieked, with an awful imprecation,
"save thyself and us!"

He who hung on the other side of the Nazarene had been
Silent till now, save for his piteous sighing; but now he spoke
—the fierce agony had cleared his brain at last.

" Wilt thou not hold thy peace!" he cried in his clear young
voice; and Stephen listened breathlessly. "Dost thou not fea'r
God, seeing thou art in the same condemnation? And we
indeed justly; for we receive the due reward of our deeds.
But he is innocent."

Then he turned his dying eyes on Jesus, and said tremu-
lously, beseechingly: " Lord, remember me when thou comest
into thy kingdom."

And into the face of Jesus, blood-stained, befouled, and
ghastly with the pallor of approaching death, there flashed a
look of joy so divine that Stephen's heart leapt when he
beheld it.

': Verily I say unto thee,"~and his voice was clear, beauti-
ful and far-reaching as of old— "to-day shalt thou be with me
in paradise."

Titus smiled radiantly. What cared he now for the pain,
the shame, the dying! " To-day— with him-in paradise!"

Stephen started forward with a great cry of longing: " Oh,
take me too!"

il N;:

II ■

«**«w*«««.»f*.

252

TITUS : A CO.MnADr OF THE CROSS.

Suddenly he became aware that not far from him stood
Mary, the mother of Jesus, and with her two other wom^n,
and John, the beloved disciple. He could see th^ ui an quitJ
plainly in the lurid half-darkness, for the crowd, in fear, had
drawn away from the neighborhood of the crosses, leaving
them almost alone save for the Roman guard. He crepl
timidly nearer, till he could have touched the hem of Mary's
robe; but he did not speak to her. He dared not.

" My son! lV\y son!" she wailed; and again the dim eyes
of the dying man briglitened.

He looked at his mother with an infinite tenderness.
" Woman!" he said faintly, "belTOld thy son!" The., turning
his eyes upon John, who was supporting her naif-swooning
form, he said, " Behold thy mother!"

The hours crept heavily onward. The darkness was that
of night now— a starless night. The thousands who had
come forth in holiday attire, full of insolent triumph, to witness
the agony of the crucifixion, were waiting, full of terror, for
the end. They dared not move in that ghastly Hukness.
Save for the groans of the dying m--,. the silence v s almost
unbroken.

About the ninth hour, Jesus cried in a voice of agony:
" Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani!"

It was the simple Galilean speech of his childhood, aid sig-
nified those saddest of all words: " My God, my Go ^ why
hast thou forsaken me?"

But someone who v^as watching, hearing n t first
words, and understanding them not, said: "Thi nan ->!leth
for Ellas."

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CHOSS.

253

Then he spoke again, this time faintly: " I thirst."
Now there was, standing near, a vessel full of the common
sour wine which the soldiers had brought to refresh them-
selves with; and one of them, smitten with remorse, hastened
to fill a spon„re with wine, and putting it upon the stem of a
hyssop plant which grew near, lifted it to the parched lips of
the sufferer.

"Let be!" shouted another. "Let us see whether Elias
will come to save him."

Another silence, broken only by the gasping breath of the
crucified one, then in a moment all was over. A look of
supreme joy nnd triumph flashed into the face of the dyin^r man
" It is finishes! !" he cried. A last low prayer-" Fathe'r, into
thy hands I c • mend my spirit!"- and with a great cry of
mortal agony, Jii< head fell forward on his breast. He
was dead.

Then follows 1 a soun of crashing and grinding rocks, as
the earth shook with u after wave of earthquake. The
people shrieked aloud, and prayed wildly in a frenzy of terror

"We are undone!" they wailed; and they rent their gar-
ments and smote upon their breasts.

The Roman centurion, also, and the soldiers that were with
him, trembled with fear. "Truly," they said, "this was the
Son of God !"

Then the darkness vanished as suddenly as it had come;
the sun shone out gloriously, and the multitudes returned into
the city, still wailing and beating upon their breasts. They
remembered the words which they had spoken: "His blood be
upon us, and upon our children."

254

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

CHAPTER XXX.

HOUGH he who hung upon the middle cross
was dead, the others who were crucified
with him, still lived. The younger of the
twain was apparently unconscious, for his
head hung forward upon his breast, and
he made neither sign nor motion. But
the other rolled his great head from side
to side, and" talked wildly.
" Send me now the high priest !" he cried. " I am a dying
man; 1 must tell him of something before I go hence."

The words caught the ear of Malchus, the high priest's
servant, who had stood near the crosses since morning.
" What wouldst thou with the high priest ?" he asked.

" Give me to drink," groaned the man, " for 1 am tormented
with thirst."

Malchus dipped the sponge into the wine, and gave it to
the miserable wretch once and again.

" Where is the high priest?" he repeated, huskily.

" He hath returned to the city," answered Malchus. " Tell
me what thou wouldst say to him. 1 am his trusted servant;
I will bear him word."

" I will tell thee— since I cannot tell him, and the time is
short." Here he paused to groan, then went on with a visible
effort. " The young man on the further cross is the son of
Caiaphas, the high priest."

TITUS : A COAIRADE OF THE CROSS. 255

"Thief, thou liest!" cried Malchus, starting back in un-
diSifuised iiorror,

'•• 1 lie not." replied Dumachus. '< I am a dying man I
stoie him with his nurse, Prisca. The girl I loved; the boy I
took to avenge myself of a scourging at the hands of Caiaphas
wnich i deserved not, and which helped make me the devil
that I am."

When Malchus heard the name Prisca, he shook with fear
•' Where is the woman?" he asked.

" I know not," answered the thief, speaking with difficulty
"She was in Capernaum. I have a son, also, Stephen by
name; I know not where he is. But swear to me that thou
wilt tell Caiaphas! He will remember the scourging-and the
boy!" And the man ground his teeth.

Malchus now ran to the other cross, and looked keenly upon
the face of him who hung thereon; and as he looked, the con-
viction forced .itself upon him that the man had spoken
the truth.

He reached up and laid his hand over the heart of the lad-
It was beating still, but so faintly that he could scarcely detect
the pulsations. "He is almost gone, happily," he thought.
Then the words which the Nazarene had spoken flashed back
into his mind. " He is near paradise-wherever that may be'"
he murmured with a heart-breaking sigh as he turned away

Calling one of the soldiers, who kept guard, he slipped a
piece of gold into his hand. " ! must have the body of this
young man, when all is over," he whispered. - 'Aanage it for
me, and thou shalt have thrice as much again."

The man nodded. " Where dost thou want it .?" he said.

256

TITUS : A COAIRADE OF TUB CR03S.

" Here. I will come to fetch him away. Do not let them
take him down, till 1 return."

" I will see to it/' said the man, looking at the coin in
his hand.

Then Malchus sped swiftly away. When he reached the
palace he went straight to the private apartment of his master.

Caiaphas was alone. He was sitting motionless in' his great
chair, his eyes fixed and staring.

" Master!" said Malchus, trembling before that terrible,
stony face, " I must tell thee something— something which
hath to do with thy son." And he cast vainly about in his
mind for a merciful way of telling his frightful tidings.

But Caiphas did not answer; he seemed not to have heard.

"I have found thy son!" cried Maldius, drawing nearer
and stooping over the chair. " 1 have found thy son; and he
is dying, or even now dead."

Caiaphas stirred, and turned his eyes sIow^y till that terri-
ble, unwinking gaze rested on the face of his servant. " Thou
hast found my son.? My son i . dead ! What is It that thou art
saying.?"

Then did Malchus, in his desperation, pour forth the whole
awful story.

Caiaphas did not move. "He is crucified, thou sayest,"
—still in the ^:r^e dull tone— "with the Nazarene. My son
and the Son of God ! Crucified together!"

Then a frightful change came over his aspect. He sprang
up, his eyes flaming, "Thou liest !" he shrieked. "Thou
art trying to make me afraid for what 1 have done! But I am
not afraid. I am glad— glad ! Dost thou hear? Get thee

'■-m

TITUS : A CO.MRADE OF THE CROSS.

257

away out of my presence, and never dare to enter it again!
Get thee away or I kill thee!" And with the howl of a
demoniac, he rushed forward.

But Malchus was gone. When he had reached the street,
he sank down for a moment on the stones, and pressing his
trembling hands together, groaned out: "My God ! My^mas-
ter! Help him, I beseech of thee. And forgive, if it be
possible!''

Then he arose, and went swiftly away towards Calvary,
stopping only to purchase supplies of fine linen and spices.

As he turned the corner of a narrow street he met two men;
one of them called him by name. He paused for an instant to
look, and saw that it was John, the follower of the Nazarene.

" 1 have with me a lad," said John under his breath, " who
hath a v/oeful errand with thy master. He knoweth the
whereabouts of his son, lost so long ago. I was bringing him
to the palace; he cannot gain admittance alone."

" Hath he tried before?" asked Malchus jagerly.

" Yes," said the lad, speaking for himself, " many times
yesterday."

Malchus groaned aloud. " 1 know all that thou wouldst tell
my master," he said. " But it will avail not'.ing to see him
now. And as for his mother— let her remain in ignorance of
the thing for a time. She hath enough to bear." And he told
them briefly of what had passed between himself and Caiaphas.

" 1 am going to see to the burial of my young master," he
said, in conclusion. " 'Tis all that I can do lor him now, for
whom 1 would have given my heart's best blood."

" I love him too," said Stephen simply. " But I am glad for

ff'lf'

25S

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

i ,

him; for he hath gone to a better place than this — to be
with Him."

Then all three went sadly on, till they came to the place
where the crosses were.

The body of Jesus was being taken reverently down from
the cross, as they approached, a number of persons assisting,
among whom Malchus recognized two members of the San-
hedrim, Joseph of Arimathea, and Nicodemus.

" They believe on him at last," said John sadly.

" They have long believed on him, but have not dared to
ronfess it openly," replied Malchus; " even as I, myself," he
added humbly.

The soldier to whom he had given the coin, now approached
him. "The lad is dead," he said in a low voice, "and the
other also. Wilt thou that we help thee? We must, at all
events, take the bodies away— and soon, for it is near sunset."

" Yes, help me. Here is gold," said Malchus huskily.

And so it was that as the sun sank behind the horizon, all
three rested in the peace of death— Jesus in the new-tomb of
Joseph of Arimathea, in a fair garden near to the place where
he died, and the others not far away. For Stephen had
besought Malchus with tears, that the body of his father
might not be left to the brutal hands of the soldiers.

As they went away in the twilight, Malchus said to
Stephen, " Where now wilt thou go?"

" I know not," answered the boy forlornly. " There is' no
one, now, to whom 1 can go; and no place!" and he sobbed
aloud.

" Thou Shalt bide with me," said Alalchus warmly.

TITUS : A CO.MRADE OF THE CROSS.

259

But John, who had joined them, drew the lad to his side.
"Wilt thou come with me?" he said. " His mother, now mine,
shall be thine also; and thou shalt be my brother."

Stephen looked up into the face of the disciple whom Jesus
loved, and his heart went out to him; and he was comforted
in his sorrow.

Then they went away into Bethany to wait till the Sabbath
should be past.

Ijff"'

260

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

CHAPTER XXXI.

J was the solemn hour before the dawn. In
the pallid, uncertain light of the waning
moon, a solitary woman hastened along the
road which led to the garden wherein" had
been laid the crucified one. It was Mary of
Magdala, bearing spices for the beloved dead.
Timidly she entered the enclosure, and
with many a tremulous pause, made her
way through the thick shrubbery. It was
very dark, and so silent that she could almost
hear the beating of her heart. Presently
she stopped altogether to listen; then was
the stillness broken by a sound as of soft,
mysterious rustling. It was but the morning
breeze as it swept through the branches: bu't
she fancied it to be the stirring of angelic wings. The bre-Uh
of the lilies filled the place with sweetness, like to the holy
atmosphere of heaven. She stood for a long time motionless,
hardly daring to breathe, still listening— listening.

Suddenly a faint beam of rosy light penetra'ted the dark-
ness, and high above burst forth the melodious thanksgiving
of the lark. ^

She started forward with a little cry. Behold, the stone had
been rolled away from the door of the sepulchre! She gave

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS. 261

one frightened glance within, then turned and fled toward
Bethany.

The tomb was empty!

"Who will roll away the stone from the door of the tomb?"
The women stopped and looked at one another in conster-
nation. There were four of them-Mary the mother of James
the wife of Clopas, Joanna, and Salome. They too were on
the way to the sacred garden in the dim light of early
morning. ^

"It is certain that we shall not be able to move it for our-
selves, for it is very great," continued Salome.

"But will not the disciples be also at the sepulchre? Our
purpose was known unto them," said Joanna. "Let us <to
on," she added. " I myself am very strong."

The dawn was brightening momently now. Light wreaths
of snowy mist which had lain softy on the bosom of f ^elds
all night were flitting away, leaving a rain of sparklino ^.vvels
behind them. Almond trees, just bursting into bloom, showed
white and rosy-red against the tender green of the youn-
eaves. Birds in an ecstasy of song, swung joyously upon
the blossoming sprays or flitted athwart the glowin-r sky All
nature was in the great secret of the heavens, on that ever-to-
be-reirembered morning!

But nothing of the triumphant joy of the r.ew day found
Its way into the hearts of the w^ en. iVlary, indeed, raised
her eyes, heavy with weeping, a ,.) s;.;(i naif bitterlv

"How can the birJs-whic - h.^ loved-sing, and the
flowers bloom, when he- " And -r voice broke in a sob.

262

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

The others were silent. With bowed heads they hurriad
forward, blinded with their tears.

And now they were come to the <rarden. They entered in.
threading their way swiftly through the serried ranks of lilies
and blossoming trees. And drawing near to the tomb, thev
saw that the great stone had been rolled away, and lay at one
side of the open door.

Timidly tliey entered into the sepulchre, then looked at one
another in sorrowful amaze. The niche wherein had lain the
body of Jesus was empty. Suddenly they perceived sitting
on the right side the figure of a young man, from whose
garments there streamed forth a 'mysterious radiance, which
lighted all the gloomy place wherein they were standing. And
the angel said unto them:

" Fear not; for I know that ye seek Jesus, which hath been
crucified. Why seek ye the living among th . .ead ? He is
not here; he is risen: behold the place where they laid him-
But go, tell his disciples and Peter, that he goeth before you
into Galilee; there shall ye see him, as he said unto you.
Remember how he spake unto you, when he was yet in
Galilee; saying that the Son of man must be delivered up into
the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day
rise again."

And they went out and fled from the tomb, trembling.
And for a time they said nothing to any one; for they
were afraid.

.:Jl

"What mean these strange tidings, thinkest thou? Who
could have taken away his body? Mayhap his enemies who

TITUS : A CO.MRADE OF THE CROSS. 263

murdered him. Have they not done enough, that they must

needs disturb him in his last sleep!"

" Let us make haste. The woman may have been mis-
taken, ' answered John. " She is crazed with grief."

Then a strange thought— a remembrance'of words ion^
smce spoken, and oftentimes repeated-flashed into his mind"
"The third day!" he murmured.

Then he broke into a run, Peter following; r.nd still run-
nmg, he came to the garden and to the tomb. The stone was
rolled away, even as the woman had said, and stooping down
he looked m and saw the linen wrappings which had swathed
the body. While he looked in amaze, not darin^ to enter
Peter also approached, and, seeing the open door, he went into
the tomb and beheld the linen cerements, folded together and
the napkin which had lain upon the face of the dead, rolled up
in a place by itself.

Then did John also come into the tomb, and there the
mighty truth burst upon him.

" He is not here. He is risen!" he said aloud-in the very
words of the angel.

But Peter was sorrowfully silent. Then the two went
away again unto their own home.

Now Mary of Magdala had followed them afar off, weeping
And when the disciples were gone away, she came alone to
the tomb and stood at the door. "And as she wept she
stooped and looked into the tomb; and she beheld two aim-ds
in white sitting, one at the head, and one at the feet, where
the body of Jesus had lain. And they said unto her, ' Vv oman

264

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

!.'

Why weepest thou? Whom seekest thou?' She said unto
them, ' Because they have taken away my Lord, and 1 know
not where they have laid him.' "

Then she turned herself about, and saw, through the blind-
incr mist of her tears, the figure of a man standing near. And
he spake unto her; and his words were those of the angels
who were in the tomb:

" Woman, why weepest thou? Whom seekest thou?"

And she thought within herself: "This man is the gar-
dener. Surely he can tell me." Clasping her hands, she said
beseechingly:

" Sir, if thou hast borne him hence, tell me where thou hast
laid him; and I will take him away."

Jesus— for it was he that had spoken— said unto her:

"Mary!"

And she knew his voice. In an ecstasy of joy she cried,
" Rabboni !" and would have laid hold on him, as if to make
sure that her sorrow-dazed senses were not deceiving her.

But he said unto her: " Lay not hold on me; for I am not
yet ascended unto my Father; but go to my brethren, and say
unto them, 1 ascend unto my Father, and your Father; and to
my God, and your God." And he passed from out her sight.

And she came in great haste and joy, and made known all
these things unto the disciples, saying to them: "I have
seen the Lord !"

" Now, behold, two of them went that same day to a village
called Emmaus, which was from Jerusalem about threescore
furlongs. And they talked together of all these things which

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS. 265

mulnT"!.'- '""' " """ '" P---^^' *»'• *hile they com-
muned together and reasoned, Jesus himself drew near Z

rrLChTr- '^"''''^■''-- ---"-"•'-----

are",hese'thaf "T "^^"^•' ^h'^' "-"""f communications

"And one of them, whose name was Cleopas, answering
sa,d unto h,m, .Art thou only a strange, in Jerusalem, an]

.tese"dly:;°™ "' ''"'' ""''" "^ "™^ *° P^^ "-- '"

" And he said unto them, 'What thintrs?'

"And they answered him. 'Concerni;. Jesus of Nazareth
wh ch ^,, pr^p^^t ^jgj^^y .^ ^^^^ ^^^ ^^^^ ^^^^

e ed h.m to be condemned to death, and have crucified him.
But we truste that it had been he which should have

ncersetH '"' '"''^ ^" *^'^' ^^^^^y '^ the third'day
s nee these thmgs were done. Yea, and certain women also

of our company made us astonished, which were early at the

sepulchre; and when they found not his body, they came

saymg that they had also seen a vision of ange'ls, which said

that he was al.ve. And certain of them which were with us

sTL bTZT''' "' '^""'^ ' ''-'' '' ^' ''^ — haJ
said. But him they saw not.

h.J7!""K v' '"'" ""'" *'"'- ' ° '"""^^ °"'^^. ''nd slow of
hea,. to be eve all that the prophets have spoken. Ough

no, Chr,s to have suffered these things, and to enter il

266

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS,

Ff-.

" And beginning from Moses and from the prophets, he
interpreted to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning
himself.

"And they drew nigh unto the village whither they went;
and he made as though he would have gone further. But
they constrained him, saying: ' Abide with us; for it is toward
evening, and the day is far spent.'

" And he went in to tarry with them. And it came to pass,
when he had sat down with them to meat, he took the bread,
and blessed it, and brake, and gave to them. And their eyes
were opened, and they knew him; and he vanished out of
their sight.

"And they said one to anoth >, Did notour hearts burn
within us, while he talked with u> by the way, and while he
opened to us the Scripturesj"

"And they rose up that very liuur, and returned to Jeru-
salem, and found the eleven gathered together, and them that
were with them, saying, 'The Lord is risen indeed, and hath
appeared unto Simon.'

" And they told what things were done in the way, and
how he was known of them in the breaking of bread."

And while they were talking together of all that had hap-
pened, some of them as yet hardly daring to believe, so great
was their joy and wonder, Jesus himself stood in the midst of
them and said:

" Peace be unto you!"

But they were terrified; for they knew that the doors were
shut, and they thought that they beheld a spirit.

And he said unto them, " Why are ye troubled ? And why

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS. 267

do thourhts arise in your hearts? Behold my hands and my
feet, that it „ i myself: handle me. and see; for a spirit hath
not flesh and bones as ye see me have." '

And he saw their faces full of a great joy indeed, yet ,,-
gled with fear. He knew their hearts, that they loved him,
yet, bemg in le flesh, the mystery of his resurrection was too
great for them.

^ Looking at them will a love unutterable he said gently
Have ye here any meat ?"-being minded to show them that
he was yet their own-not removed to an infinite and unap-
proachabk distance, but the very Jesus who had loved them
and care,; tor them and died for them.

And with trembling and great joy they brought broiled fish
and a piece of honeycomb-the.r own homely and familiar
food which he I, Id shared with them so often. And he did eat
before them.

Then did they crowd about him, and weep out their joy
at his feet. And he talked with them a long time, and made
all thmgs clear as might be to their human understandin^r

And he said unto them, <« Thus it is written, and thus" it
behooved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third
day; and that repentance and forgiveness of sins should be
preacheii in his name among all nations, beginning at Jeru-
salem. And ye are witnesses of these things "

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WEBSTER, N.Y. 14580

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268

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

CHAPTER XXXII.

ARY the mother of Jesus was
sittinjr motionless at the window
of her chamber, her dark eyes
fixed on the distant horizon. The
look on her face was that of one
who had suffered beyond tiie
limit of human endurance, and
to whom had come some heav-
enly panacea, its peace was
the peace of heaven.

As she sat thus musin<r within
herself, some one entered the room and softly approached. It
was Stephen. Kneeling lightly at her side, he lifted the waxen
fingers which lay idly in her lap, and pressed them to his lips.
" Mother of my Jesus!" he said, " thou knowest how I came
to Jerusalem that I might search for Titus-and how that he
hath entered into paradise, where he shall abide for evermore
with him whom we love. Yet his mother knoweth not
where he is."

Then he told her all that had happened, and how Malchus
had said, " Let his mother remain in ignorance of the thing;
she hath enough to bear."

And Mary turned the solemn radiance of her eyes upon
him. as he knelt beside her, awaiting her answer.

"She must no longer remain in ignorance," she said at

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS. 269

lenjrth. "Thou must teli her, and no other. Go. my son "
And she rested her hand for a moment on his bowed head in
s.Ient blessing.

In the room overlookinnr the terrace in the house of Caia-
phas, the sunshine flickered as cheerily as of yore, the fountain
plashed, the birds san-r joyously, and the odor of lilies was
wafted m on every passing breeze. Yet was the face of its
mistress sad; the work had slipped from her idle finders- her
eyes were heavy with unshed tears. She looked up as one
of her maidens entered and made obeisance before her.

" What wilt thou, Reba.?" she said wearily.

" Most noble lady," replied the maid, " there is a lad waitinr
w. the court of the household. He would see thee and
speak with thee. 1 told him that it could not be- but he was
importunate and refused to go away until he had seen
thee."

"Thou shouldst not have told him that it could not be
until thou hadst consulted my pleasure," said Anna. " Bring
the lad into my presence."

The maiden bowed humbly and v^ent away. Presently
she returned.

" Here is the lad, most noble lady," she said; then obeyin-
a motion of her mistress' hand, she went away, leaving the
two alone.

Stephen regarded the lady before him with awe The
mother of his Titus! How should he tell her! How should
he begin!

Anna saw his embarrassment; her heart went out toward

270

T'TUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

the lad. The earnest and lovina reirard in h;

lier stran^rely. '' ^^^'^'^^ '" his eyes stirred

" riDu art the mother of mv Tit.u i ™

-.o"^<;l^;err;-'---^^^

"He ,s thy son. His name was David."

. "^'^y' 'bother of my Titus, weeo n ' " h •.
;n,?Iy. When he had finished. '< fC i^ '^ ^^f ^'^^^^'^'-

Had he not the promise of .he Maier hT ' ^''' '""•
failed? Is he not safe? Is hLot hi .''''''''''' "^^^'•
" \n ^.. A- "°^ blessed— n paradise "

In paradise-yes," moaned the mother '^^B 'm 7
earth. And I know not whether I sh.li 7" u ' '"" °"

"Thou Shalt be with h L ! "^ ^' ^'^^ ^''"''"
Jesus. Who died and ha h n e'"f '' ' '^'' '''' ^^"^^ -
solemnly. '^ '''''' ^""^'^ ^'^^ ^ead," said Stephen

^^r::::!::^^'^^^^--^^^^^^ -what meanest

'a.7r corLHearrurh "^ ''-'' -'-' ^'^y

' ''"''' ^'^'^t fie was crucified," said

/es stirred

ane of her

'itus him-
trembled

) tell thee

>na. Yet

rp cry.

•ail the

?eseech-

th him?

'i never
>>

I am on
m."
ieve in
tephen

leanest

e they
" said

:tlr :

"Then came they into the place where Mary was."- Page 271.

TITUS : A COA\RADE OF THE CROSS.

271

Stephen in joyous triumph. " That he is alive! With mine
own eyes I have seen him, and I have heard his voice. And
if he liveth, we shall live also; moreover he hath said that it
is his will that we should be with him where he is. Thou
Shalt see thy son again. The Father is merciful."

Anna made no reply. She arose, and hastily wrapping her-
self in a mantle and veil which lay upon the divan near at
hand, said tremulously:

" I must see the mother of Jesus. Take me to her."
And the two passed out into the street, the haughty lady
following humbly after Stephen all the way till they reached
the abode of Mary.

Then came they into the place where Mary was; and when
the mother of Titus saw her, she gave a great and bitter cry
and fell upon her neck weeping.

Stephen went softly away and left the two women together.
After a time they called for him, and he came into their
presence trembling. He saw the face of Anna, that it shone
through her tears with joy, even as the sun deth forth its
strong beams through the clouds heavy with irm; and his
heart grew light in his bosom.

" Come hither, my son," said Mary gently.
And he drew near, and the mother of Titus gazed upon him
long and earnestly.

" Thou wert nearest and dearest to him while he was upon
the earth," she said at length. "I would that thou couldst be
ever with me. Yet that may not be." And she turned to
Mary with a tender smile. " I would not take thee from her
—yet thou must be a son to me also, for thou wert his

272

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

S-'

brother." And rising she drew the lad to her side and kissed
him solemnly upon his forehe-;d.

one'th°.'\''T."'' '''' Stephen found yet another friend
-one that loved h.m all the days of his life. But full of
triumph and joy and usefulness as was that life upon earth i
was not Ion, The world was not worthy of him'; an God
to h.m to himself after that he had revealed to him his ,lory
while he was yet in the flesh. ^

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

273

CHAPTER XXXIII.

|F I could but see him once more
as of old !" said Peter \on^inu\y.
He was walkirijir with John in
his own garden in Capernaum,
and certain others of the disci-
ples were sitting' on the wall at
the water's edge, talking in low
tones. They had come into
Galilee according to the word of
the Lord, and had gathered
together a multitude of the
disciples and had told them how that the Lord was risen from
the dead. And on this peaceful evening of early summer
they had been speaking of his mysterious appearance upon
the mountain, where he was seen of over f - hundred of the
disciples.

"Thou wert not of them which doubted }" questioned John
gravely.

"Nay, I doubted not. 'Twould ill beseem me— of all men
—to question his mercy. But"— and he lowered his voice—
" thou knowest that it was like a vision from heaven. And
there were so many to see. If only I could speak with him
once again face to face, and know that he hath forgiven me
for my dastardly cowardice!" And he dashed the bright drops
from his eyes.

274

TITLS : A COAIRADE OF THE CUOZS.

I ■ It. I

Suddenly he turned, and looking out over the placid waters
of the lake, now glowinjr with the thousand shifting tints of
sunset, he exclaimed with something of his old energy "I
would fain go fishing to-night."

John looked somewhat surprised, but he only said: " Wilt
thou that the others go also?"

"Assuredly," answered Peter. " Do thou speak with them
I will put the boat to rights and bring the nets."

So presently they all set forth, amid the deepening shadows
of evening, just as they used to do. And as the boat glided
gently along, floating, as it were, between two heavens, John
looked forth over the mystic glory of the water as it reflected in
Its bosom the radiant sky, and murmured: " A sea of irlass
mingled with fire!"

They toiled all the night, yet caught nothing. When the
morning was come, they made for the land, weary and faint

And as they drew nigh unto the shore they beheld stand-
ing upon the water's edge the figure of a man. seen but dimly
through the morning mist.

And he called to them and said: "Children, have ye any
meat .?" -^ ^

And they answered him: "No."

And he said: " Cast the net on the right side of the ship,
and ye shall find." ^

And they did as thoy were bidden; for they thought that
he might have seen that look on the surface of the water which
shows to one skilled in such things the presence of fish
And having cast the net. they were now not able to drag ii
fcr the multitude of the fishes.

TITUS : A COMIMDE OF THE CROSS.

275

Then diJ John, the disciple whom Jesus loved, stand up in
the bow of the boat and a^ze lon^r and earnestly upon the man
who stood upon the shore; and he knew him, and cried out
with joy: " It is the Lord !"

And when Peter heard that it was the Lord, he girt his
fisher's coat about him and, leapin;r into the water, swam
ashore, and fell at the feet of the Master whom he had denied.

Now the other disciples, dragging the net full of fishes,
came also to the shore; and they saw a fire of coals burning,
and fish broiling thereon, and bread, just as of yore.

And their hearts were full as they gazed upon their risen
Lord, and thought that even in his glory he remembered that
they were hungry and must eat.

"And Jesus said unto them, 'Bring of the fish which ye
have now caught.'

"Peter went and drew the net to land full of great fishes,
an hundred and fifty and three; and for all there were so
many, yet was not the net broken."

Then said Jesus unto them: " Come, and break your fast."

And he himself took of the fish, and gave to them: and
also of the bread. And they ate and were satisfied.

After that tuey had eaten, Jesus fixed his eyes upon Peter
and said to him: "Simon, son of John, dost thou love me
more than these?"

And Peter answered eagerly: "Yea, Lord; thou knowest
that I love thee."

" Feed my lambs," said the Master solemnly.
Then he asked him a second time: "Simon, son of John,
dost thou love me?"

276

TITUS : A CO.MFMDE OF THE CFtOSS.

u ',

And a«ain Peter made answer: "Yea. Lord; thou knovlest
Inat I love thee.

And Jesus said unto him solemnly as before- "Tend
my sheep."

Then said he the third time: " Simon, son of John, dost
tliou love nie.^

Peter was prieved when he said unto him the third time,
Dost hou love me?" Yet in his heart he knew the meaning

of It all; had he not thrice denied, and was it not meet that he

should rhrice confess?

^^ He fell on his knees before Jesus, and with tears cried out-
Lord, thou knowest all thin^rs; thou knowest that i

love thee."

Jesus looked upon him with a deep tenderness in his eyes
so that the heart of Peter was satisfied. He knew that he was
forgiven.

And airain he said unto him: " Feed my sheep,"
Then after a little silence he added: "Verily." verily I s-,v
unto thee, when thou wast young, thou girdedst thyself, and
vvakedst whither thou wouldest: but when thou art old thou
Shalt stretch forth thine hands, and another shall gird thee and
carry thee whither thou wouldest not."

And many years afterward, when the enemies of Christ
bound Peter and bore him away to a martyr's death, these
words were fulfilled. Yet was he triumphant unto the end
through the love of his Lord and Master.

Not many days after this, the disciples went back to Jeru-
salem. according to the word of Jesus, that they might tarry

TITUS : A CO.MRADE OF THE CROSS. 277

there till the prcmis. of the Father slioulJ he fuhillcJ. And
Jesus met them there, and ajfain talked with them; and they
askedjnm: " Lor •. dost thou at this time restore the kingdom

And he said to them: " It is not for you to know times or
seasons which the Father hath set within his own authority.
But ye shall receive power when the Holy Spirit is come unon
you: and ye shall be my witnesses, both in Jerusalem, and in
all Judea. and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost p r.^ of tiie
earth. Go ye therefore, and make disciples of all the nations
bmmnfr them into the name of the Father, and of the Son
and of the Holy Ghost: teachin-r them to observe all thin.^s
whatsoever I have commanded you: and lo, I am with you
alway, even unto the end of the world."

" And he led them out until they were over aijainst Beth-
any: and he lifted up his hands, and blessed them. And it
came to pass, while he blessed them, he parted from them, and
a c oud received him out of their si,rht. And while they were
lookm,^ steadfastly into heaven as he went, behold, two men
stood by tliem ir, white apparel; and they said. ' Ye men of
Galilee, why stand ye lookinjr into heaven.? This Jesus
which was received up from you into heaven, shall so come in
like manner as ye beheld him goin^ into heaven.' "

And they returned into Jerusalem with exceeding great jov
and were continually in the temple, praising and blessing God!
Ancf most of all did they rejoice in the word which he spake

th"e woHcr' " ' ' """ ""''^ ^°" "'''^' '^'" ""^' ^^' '"^^ °^
And he is with us to-day; for "he inhabiteth eternity."

278

TITUS : A CO.MRADE OF TUS CROSS.

" He is the same yesterday, to-day, and forever," — not a far-
away Jesus in some remote and inaccessible glory:

" But warm, sweet, tender, even yet
A present help is he;
And faith has yet its Olivet,
And love its Galilee.

" The healing of the seamless dress
Is by our beds of pain;
We touch him in life's throng and press,
And we are whole again."

At this moment he is standing by thy side; wilt thou not
fall at his feet and cry out, " Lord, thou knowest all things;
thou knowest that I love thee!" Then will he lift thee at once
from all thy weakness and sin; and thou shalt triumph glori-
ously through the power of his love.

And so at last we too shall one day be with him in paradise;
and there "we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is."

God grant that every one of us shall be numbered with
that exceeding great multitude who shall stand before the
throne, and before the Lamb, crying, "Worthy is the Lamb
that was slain!"

"For they shall hunger no more, neither thirst any more;
neither shall the sun light on them, nor any heat. For the
Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed them, and
lead them unto fountains of living waters. And God sha"
wipe away all tears from their eyes."

not a far-

: thou not
ill things;
ee at once
mph glori-

1 paradise;
las he is."
lered with
before the
the Lamb

iny more;

For the

them, and

God sha"

"Woman, why weepcst thou?"

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

279

APPENDIX.

.To the readers of " Titus," I would say a word in regard to
the book. Its purpose will, I hope, be evident to .-'11. it is to
present the life of Jesus upon earth in such a way as to .rive
a fresh interest to the "old, old story;" to bring the Jesu's of
nearly nineteen centuries ago into our lives to-day— a real, a liv-
ing Jesus, as tender, as loving, as thoughtful of his children who
are upon earth now, as he was with the dwellers in Palestine.

In writing the story 1 have consulted many books on the
subject by other authors, among which I would mention, as
having been especially useful to me, " The Life and Words of
Christ," by Dr. Geikie; also works by Edersheim, Stalker,
Farrar, Hanna, Beecher, and others; as well as numerous Com-
mentaries and Harmonies, together with Smith's Bible Dic-
tionary-a host in itself; and leading books of travel in the
Orient.

I found that tradition has handed down three groups of
names for the thieves who were crucified with the Savior;
Dysmas, or Demas, for the penitent thief, and Gestas for the
impenitent, being the most generally accepted. A second
tradition gives Titus for the penitent and Dumachus for the
impenitent thief. These names I chose for the characters in
my book, for they seemed to me to be the most fitting. Other
traditional names were Matha and Joca. It will b^i? noticed
that 1 used the names Gestas and Joca for certain of the

2S0

TITUS : A COMRADE OF THE CROSS.

robber band wlio H'ere associated with Dumaclius; it having
occurred to me that the possible reason for the number of
traditional names lay in the existence of just such a predatory
band as 1 have described in my story.

In quoting the words of Christ throughout the story, as
well as in the description of certain scenes, I have harmonized
the words given us in the different Gospels. 1 have also used
the Revised Version of the New Testament, as well as the
Authorized Version, and in some cases have gone back to the
original Greek, thi- there might be the greatest possible clear-
ness and completeness of the narrative.

My prayer for this book is that it may go out into the world
and preach the Gospel of Jesus.

And bO farewell.

Florence Morse Kingsley.

West New Brighton, Staten Island, N. Y.
October 26, 1S94.

having
Tiber of
edatory

tory, as
ionised
sO used
as the
to the
t clear-

world

LEY.