named. Mary was still in the
act of her devotion to Jesus. "But Judas Iscariot, one of His disciples,
which should betray Him, saith, 'Why was not this ointment sold for
three hundred pence, and given to the poor?' This he said, not because
he cared for the poor"--not he--"but because he was a thief and, having
the bag, took away what was put therein." He it was who from the first
showed displeasure at Mary's act. His words were both an exclamation and
a question, a sort of soliloquy, and yet addressed to anybody who might
hear and answer: but they needed no answer. It was too late to gather up
the ointment already used, and sell it for the poor or for any other
purpose. But Judas' purpose I well understand. I see through his
hypocrisy now more clearly than I did then.

[Illustration: TRIUMPHAL ENTRY INTO JERUSALEM _Gustave Dore_ Page 138]

With the sharp, reproving voice of Judas, Mary glanced into his angry
face. This would have filled her with terror had she not immediately
looked into that of Jesus beaming upon her. One hand of His was over
her, as if in protection and benediction, while the other waved in a
reproving gesture. As I read how He answered the question of Judas with
another, "Why trouble ye her?" and then commanded, "Let her alone"; and
then declared, "She hath wrought a good work upon me," I recall the
changing expressions of His face, and His tones of indignation and
affection.

I was startled by the reason He gave for letting her alone,--that she
might preserve what remained of the ointment, not for the poor, but to
be used for His burial, near at hand.

She it was of whom I have spoken who understood better than I or any of
my fellow-apostles, that our Lord's life was nearing its end.

I find here in the records of Matthew and Mark the assurance of the Lord
concerning the unnamed woman of whom they have written. It is this,
"Verily I say unto you, 'Wheresoever this gospel shall be preached in
the whole world, that also which this woman hath done shall be spoken of
for a memorial of her.' Let it be known that this woman was Mary of
Bethany, then at Jesus' feet. Henceforth let her name be linked with her
deed."

Thus ends the words we have imagined St. John might have spoken with the
Gospels of Matthew and Mark in his hand. The additions to their story
are suggested by his own Gospel. He has drawn a beautiful picture of
Mary, in brighter colors and more delicate shades than has any other. To
hi