Page:Traditions of Palestine (microform) (IA traditionsofpale00martrich).pdf/60

High Priest when he made intercession for the sins of the people, others gazed on the remains of the sacrifice which yet hallowed the altar, and on the priests who were ranged on its sloping ascent, each bearing the sacred vessel of which he had the charge. A burst of harmony startled the throng, and sent a thrill of rapture through every frame. Loud and louder it pealed, till every echo of the lofty pile was awakened, and the music seemed to pervade the space, as if it were embodied in the perfume of the censer. All eyes were turned towards the Water-gate, every cheek was flushed, every voice was stilled, while the harmony gradually softened, and at length the silver trumpets alone were heard to make sweet melody. The folding doors of the Water-gate were flung apart, and the priest appeared who had descended to the stream of Siloah which waters the foot of Moriah. There he had filled his golden ewer, in remembrance of the gift of water to the thirsting followers of Moses, and in sign of thankfulness for the early and latter rains, and now offered the pure produce of the spring to be mingled with the wine of sacrifice. The music ceased for a