At first a
standing committee was appointed to make these visits, of whom Ithiel
was one. Before two years had gone by, however, much murmuring arose
in the community upon this matter. It was pointed out in language that
became vehement--for an Essene--that so much power should not be left in
the hands of one fixed set of individuals, who might become careless or
prejudiced, or, worst of all, neglectful of the welfare of the child who
was the guest not of them only, but of the whole order. It was demanded,
therefore, that this committee should change automatically every month,
so that all might serve upon it in turn, Ithiel, as the blood-relation
of Miriam, remaining its only permanent member. This proposal was
opposed by the committee, but as no one else would vote for them the
desired alteration was made. Further, to be removed temporarily, or
for good, from its roster was thenceforth recognised as one of the
punishments of the order.
Indeed, the absurdities to which its existence gave rise, especially as
the girl grew in years, sweetness and beauty, cannot be numbered. Thus,
every visiting member must wash his whole person and clothe himself in
clean garments before he was allowed to approach the child, "lest he
should convey to her any sickness, or impure substance, or odour.
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