Page:The Pilgrim's Progress, the Holy War, Grace Abounding Chunk1.djvu/28

24 not minded to go back to thy former habitation (as, indeed, I would not wish thee), thou mayest send for thy wife and children to thee to this village, where there are houses now standing empty, one of which thou mayest have at a reason able rate: provision is there also cheap and good; and that which will make thy life the more happy is, to be sure there thou shalt live by honest neighbours, in credit and good fashion.

Now was Christian somewhat at a stand; but presently he concluded, If this be true which this gentleman hath said, my wisest course is to take his advice: and with that he thus further spake.

Chr. Sir, which is my way to this honest man's house?

World. Do you see yonder high hill?

Chr. Yes, very well.

World. By that hill you must go, and the first house you come at is his.

So Christian turned out of his way to go to Mr. Legality's house for help: but, behold, when he was got now hard by the hill, it seemed so high, and also that side of it that was next the wayside did hang so much over, that Christian was afraid to venture further, lest the hill should fall on his head; wherefore there he stood still, and wotted not what to do. Also his burden now seemed heavier to him than while he was in his way. There came also ﬂashes of fire out of the hill, that made Christian afraid that he should be burnt (Ex. xix. 16–18. Heb. xii. 21); here, therefore, he did sweat and quake for fear. And now he began to be sorry that he had taken Mr Worldly Wiseman's counsel; and with that he saw Evangelist coming to meet him, at the sight also of whom he, began to blush for shame. So Evangelist drew nearer and nearer; and, coming up to him, he looked upon him with a severe. and dreadful countenance, and thus began to reason with Christian.

Evan. What dost thou here, Christian? said he: at which