ce.
The expression of his countenance was most repulsive, as it showed in
every lineament not only the infernal joy with which he was filled, but
likewise all the cunning and duplicity of this heart. He was the
president of a species of tribunal instituted for the purpose of
examining persons accused of teaching false doctrines; and if convicted
there, they were then taken before the High Priest.

Jesus stood before Annas. He looked exhausted and haggard; his
garments were covered with mud, his hands manacled, his head bowed
down, and he spoke not a word. Annas was a thin ill-humoured-looking
old man, with a scraggy beard. His pride and arrogance were great; and
as he seated himself he smiled ironically, pretending that he knew
nothing at all, and that he was perfectly astonished at finding that
the prisoner, whom he had just been informed was to be brought before
him, was no other than Jesus of Nazareth. 'Is it possible,' said he, 'is it
possible that thou art Jesus of Nazareth? Where are thy disciples, thy
numerous followers? Where is thy kingdom? I fear affairs have not
turned out as thou didst expect. The authorities, I presume, discovered
that it was quite time to put a stop to thy conduct, disrespectful as
it was towards God and his priests, and to such violations of the
Sabbath. What disciples hast thou now? Where are they all gone? Thou
are silent! Speak out, seducer! Speak out, thou inciter of rebellion!
Didst thou not eat the Paschal lamb in an unlawful manner, at an
improper time, and in an improper place? Dost thou not desire to
introduce new doctrines? Who gave thee the right of preaching? Where
didst thou study? Speak, what are the tenets of thy religion?'

Jesus then raised his weary head, looked at Annas, and said, 'I have
spoken openly to the world; I have always taught in the synagogue, and
in the Temple, whither all the Jews resort; and in secret I have spoken
nothing. Why askest thou me? Ask them who have heard what I have spoken
unto them; behold, they know what thing I have said.'

At this answer of Jesus the countenance of Annas flushed with fury
and indignation. A base menial who was standing near perceived this,
and he immediately struck our Lord on the face with his iron gauntlet,
exclaiming at the same moment, 'Answerest thou the High Priest so?' Jesus
was so nearly prostrated by the violence of the blow, that when the
guards likewise reviled and struck him, he fell quite down, and blood
tr