whether any of the women wished to return to their homes, as they were
ready to escort them. A few accepted the proposition, and set off
immediately; but before they reached the tribunal of Caiphas, some
armed men stopped Joseph of Arimathea, arrested, and shut him up in an
old deserted turret.

Those among the holy women who did not leave the Cenaculum retired
to take their rest in the cell-like compartments spoken of above: they
fastened long veils over their heads, seated themselves sorrowfully on
the floor, and leaned upon the couches which were placed against the
wall. After a time they stood up, spread out the bedclothes which were
rolled up on the couches, took off their sandals, girdles, and a part
of their clothing, and reclined for a time in order to endeavour to get
a little sleep. At midnight, they arose, clothed themselves, put up
their beds, and reassembled around the lamp to continue their prayer
with the Blessed Virgin.

When the Mother of Jesus and her pious companions had finished their
nocturnal prayer (that holy duty which has been practised by all
faithful children of God and holy souls, who have either felt
themselves called to it by a special grace, or who follow a rule given
by God and his Church), they heard a knock at the door, which was
instantly opened, and John and some of the disciples who had promised
to conduct them to the Temple, entered, upon which the women wrapped
their cloaks about them, and started instantly. It was then about three
in the morning, and they went straight to the Temple, it being
customary among many Jews to get there before day dawned, on the day
after they had eaten the Paschal lamb; and for this reason the Temple
was open from midnight, as the sacrifices commenced very early. They
started at about the same hour as that at which the priests had put