The one on the left stretched out his neck, and mocked at Jesus with a distorted face: "I suppose, neighbour, that you too are one of those who get executed just because they are weaklings.

Jump from the cross, rush among them, and the wretches will idolise you!" Jesus did not answer him.

He turned His head towards the man who hung on His right who saw the moment approaching when his legs would be broken.

In the agony of death, and in penitence for his ill-spent life, he turned to Him whom they called Messiah and Christ.

And when he saw the expression with which Jesus looked at him, a curious shudder passed through the criminal's heart.