38 Now when
they were going, behold, some of the watch came into the city, and shewed unto
the chief priests all the things that were done.
39 And when they were assembled
with the elders, and had taken counsel, they gave large money unto the soldiers,
40 Saying, Say ye, His disciples came by night, and stole
him away while we slept.
41 And if this come to the
governor's ears, we will persuade him, and secure you.
42 So
they took the money, and did as they were taught: and this saying is commonly
reported among the Jews until this day.