"Is it not strange," Lazarus said, "that in the name of those who were stoned yesterday for being prophets, the prophets of to-morrow are stoned to-day."
"There are no good prophets but dead prophets," Mary answered.
"So it seemeth," and Lazarus turned to the scroll and began to read. "The ox knoweth—" The words were interrupted by a knocking at the door which both Mary and Lazarus hastened to answer.
"It is Joseph of Arimathea," said Lazarus.
"Perhaps Jesus cometh first," Mary replied, laughing.
The door was thrown open to Joseph who was greeted warmly, relieved of his cloak and seated for foot-washing.
"Aye, but we are glad to have thee," Lazarus said, shaking his hand.
"The year hath been long since we saw thee last," Mary said, and Martha added, "Thou dost honor us to be our Passover guest."
"The blessing of God be on thee, my daughters, and thou, Lazarus. And,
Joel, it seemeth I saw thee here also at the last Passover."
"Yea, indeed," laughed Lazarus. "And art like to find him here next Passover, eh, Martha?" and his laughter called forth a response of merriment from the company.