As he spoke the leaders of the party emerged into sight.
“Shoot, Shallum!” said Benjamin; “strike one of those fellows down and we shall have the whole party in confusion.”
“Nay, Benjamin; I hear the voices of women and children; and see—God wither my hand if I shoot at such helpless people as these.”
The rest of the party was now in sight. Two men, one on either side of the ass, were supporting Ruth, who, worn out by the fatigues of the day, could with difficulty keep her seat on the animal. These were her husband and Azariah. Close behind came Micah, carrying on his shoulder the little Judith, who was fast asleep. Then followed Miriam, Judith’s elder sister. The poor child limped sadly along, for her city life had been but a poor training for that long day’s march, and she felt just [pg 127]a little envious of the good fortune which Judith enjoyed in being carried.
Shallum recognized the figures of Seraiah and Ruth, with whom he happened to have had some slight acquaintance in Jerusalem, and from whom indeed he had received no little kindness.
“Benjamin,” he said, in a determined voice, “I know these people, and if I can help it they shall suffer no harm.”
“Well, well; have your way,” said his companion, who indeed was not quite as hard of heart as he would make himself out. “If, as you say, you know them, go down and make friends.”
Shallum at once made his way down into the pass, and, standing in the path, greeted the travellers with the customary salutation, “Peace be with you!”
“What, Shallum!” said Seraiah, “is that you? What brings you here?”
“That were a long story,” returned the man, “and this is not the time to tell it. But can I serve you?”