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Rh So Christian came up with him again and said, "I think I have a good guess at you. Isn't your name Mr. By-ends?"

"That is not my real name," answered the man; "but some people who don't like me have given it to me as a nickname."

"Did you never do anything to deserve such a name?"

"Never, never! The worst I ever did was to happen always to be on the same side as the company I am with. I never go against wind or tide. I like to go to church when I can wear my silver slippers. So why should men call me By-ends?"

"Well, if you go with us, you must go against wind and tide," said Christian.

"Indeed," answered By-ends, "if you don't wish my company, I can get along very well by myself." And with that he dropped behind, and Christian and Hopeful went onward with quickened steps.

Soon the road became broader and easier, and presently they saw spread out before them a beautiful plain called Ease. The way was now so pleasant that the pilgrims sang for joy; the plain was very level and they were soon across it.