Page:John Bunyan's Dream Story.djvu/195

Rh So now all desired to go onward, lest they too should be overcome. And as the way was growing darker, they begged the guide to strike a light. He therefore took his tinder box again, and lighted a little lantern which he had with him; and so they were helped on their way.

The children began soon to be sorely weary; and they cried unto the friend of pilgrims to make their way more comfortable. And behold, by the time they had gone a little farther, a wind arose that scattered the darkness; and the air became more clear. Then they went on to the borders of the Enchanted Ground.

At one place they caught glimpses of a tall and beautiful lady who flitted hither and thither in the shadowy bowers. She beckoned to them, but would not come near. She called, and her voice was soft and sweet.

They saw that she was clad in beautiful garments, and she wore a large purse by her side. In this purse she kept one hand, fingering her money, which was her heart's delight.

"Oh, see the beautiful lady!" cried the little boy. "Let us go to her, and rest in one of her bowers." And he began to run joyfully towards her.