"I will hasten out," said Esdras, hurrying away as quickly as his short, squat figure would allow.
Annas, walking about impatiently, tormented by misgivings as to the success of the enterprise, began: "It would be a blow to the Sanhedrin if this time the work should not succeed."
Sidrach said, "Do not give away to anxiety, high priest," and Missel added, "There is no doubt of our success."
Annas, heeding not the consolation of his priests, said, "They may have altered their way and returned through the Siola Gate. I must send to see also on that side."
Sidrach said, "If the high priest wishes it I will go to the Siola Gate."
"Yes, do," said Annas, "but first see whether anyone comes through the street of the Sanhedrin."
"I will not loiter, my lord," said Sidrach, as he disappeared in the darkness.
Annas resumed his troubled thoughts. "The night is going by, and still the old uncertainty. Every minute of this weary waiting time is as an hour to me. Hark, I think some one comes running! Yes, he comes. Surely there will be good tidings."
Sidrach, bursting into the presence of the high priest, exclaimed, "My lord, Esdras comes in haste. I saw him just now running down the street with rapid foot."
Then said Annas, "Surely it is joyful news that he brings since he hastens so. Truly, I long for nothing now but the death of this malefactor."