simplicity and a pure heart. Is not that
the true human lot? And does not such a natural, glad life come very
near to the Divine?

Thus, then, He followed the Divine path across that historic ground
which will be known as the Holy Land to the end of time.

And now that great day, that great Sabbath morning came.

For a long time damp, grey mists had hung over the valleys of Galilee;
banks of fog had hovered over the mountains of Lebanon; showers of cold
rain fell. But after the gloom dawned a bright spring morning. From
the rocky heights a fertile land was visible. Green meadows watered by
shining streams adorned the valleys, and groups of pines, fig trees,
olive trees, and cedars, the slopes and the hill-tops. Vines and dewy
roses were in the hedges. A full-voiced choir of birds and fresh
breezes from the Lake filled the soft air. Westwards the blue waters
of the Mediterranean might be discerned, and in the east, through
distant clefts in the rocks, the shimmer of the Dead Sea. Southwards
lay the plain, and the yellowish mounds which marked the beginning of
the desert. And towards the west the snow peaks of Lebanon were
visible above the dark forest and the lighter green of the slopes. A
perfect sunny peacefulness lay over everything.

The flat rocks of the gentler slopes were crowded with people, many of
whom had never seen this district. And they still came from every
village and farm. Instead of going as usual to the synagogue, they
hastened to this mountain height. Instead of seeking soft repose, as
their desire of comfort bade them, they hurried thither over stocks and
stones. Instead of visiting friend or neighbour they all climbed the
heights together. For they knew that Jesus was there, and would speak.
And so they stood or sat on the flat stones--men and women, old and
young, rich and poor. Many only came out of curiosity, and passed the
time in witty sallies; others jested together; others, again, waited in
silent expectation. Those who already knew Him whispered excitedly,
and Simon said to James; "My heart has never beat so violently as
to-day."

And Jesus stood on the summit of the mountain. As if all men were
turned to stone at sight of Him, a silence and stillness now took the
place of the subdued murmur of the crowd. He stood in His long,
light-coloured gown, like a white pillar against the blue sky. His
left hand hung motionless by His side, the right was pressed against
His