Chapter 19

‘Not very homelike,’ commented Esther, for something to say.

‘It has quite an interesting history,’ said Myra. ‘It was formerly the palace of King Herod the Great.’

Esther tugged them to a stop for a longer look, wondering what Myra might say if she told her that this was her birthplace.

At length they sighted the Temple. It was the most beautiful building that Esther had ever seen. She stood fascinated, slowly shaking her head in wonderment. Their further progress was at a snail’s pace, for the street was packed to suffocation. After many long delays they reached the exquisitely sculptured entrance to the Temple Court. Old Asher had found an acquaintance of his own years with whom he was exchanging affectionate hugs and excited greetings. Presently the other old man was whispering some important news into Asher’s ear. His eyes widened as he listened. He nodded vigorously. His friend moved on.

It was easily to be seen that old Asher was bursting to tell what he had heard. Gathering his family about him he announced dramatically:

‘Galilee will be troubled no more by this Carpenter who has scorned the faith of our fathers! He came to the Temple yesterday and created a disturbance—drove the people’s sacrificial offerings into the street; upset the tables of the exchangers who were here to assist the pilgrims! Now the authorities intend to deal with him as he deserves!’ Asher scrubbed his thin hands together and grinned happily. ‘This time,’ he shouted, ‘the Carpenter will pay for his disrespect to Israel!’

Esther leaned heavily on Myra’s arm and felt her knees giving way.

‘You’re ill!’ muttered Myra, supporting her. ‘Hold on tight—and we’ll get out of here!’

‘What’s the matter with her?’ demanded old Asher crossly.

‘She is fainting,’ said Myra. ‘It’s so stuffy and hot in here. I’ll take her outside…Help me, father!’

Gideon obediently took the other arm and they half-carried Esther through the jostling pack and out on to the pavement, where she revived enough to murmur that she was ashamed to have caused them so much bother.

‘We must find a place where you can sit down,’ said Myra. ‘I’ll take care of her, father. You go back and join the others. We will meet you in Bethany. I know the way.’

Gideon hesitated.

‘Your grandfather will be put out, Myra, by your leaving.’