CHAPTER LI.
The Embalming of the Body of Jesus.
The Blessed Virgin seated herself upon a large cloth spread on the ground, with her right knee, which was slightly raised, and her back resting against some mantles, rolled together so as to from a species of cushion.

No precaution had been neglected which could in any way facilitate to her--the Mother of Sorrows--in her deep affliction of soul, the mournful but most sacred duty which she was about to fulfil in regard to the body of her beloved Son.

The adorable head of Jesus rested upon Mary's knee, and his body was stretched upon a sheet.

The Blessed Virgin was overwhelmed with sorrow and love.

Once more, and for the last time, did she hold in her arms the body of her most beloved Son, to whom she had been unable to give any testimony of love during the long hours of his martyrdom.