15 If one has only reached the plane of treachery, he is a lover of deceit, and will betray a friend to serve his selfish self.
16 Behold, you men, or whatsoe’er you be, your words fall lightly on my ears,
17 Could I prejudge these hundred priests, turn traitor to myself and them, because of what you say when you confess your treachery?
18 No man can judge for me; and if I judge till testimony all is in I might not judge aright.
19 Nay, men; by whatsoever way you came, return. My soul prefers the darkness of the grave to little flickering lights like these you bring.
20 My conscience rules; what these, my brothers, have to say I’ll hear, and when the testimony all is in I will decide. You cannot judge for me, nor I for you,
21 Begone, you men, begone, and leave me to this charming light; for while the sun shines not, within my soul there is a light surpassing that of sun or moon.
22 Then, with an angry threat that they would do him harm, the wily tempters left, and Jesus was again alone.
23 Again the white-robed priest appeared, and led the way, and Jesus stood again before the hierophant;
24 And not a word was said, but in his hands the master placed a scroll on which the word suggestive, JUSTICE, was inscribed.