Page:The Pilgrims Progress (1890).djvu/20

4 life!&rdquo; So he looked not behind him, but fled towards the middle of the plain.

The neighbors also came out to see him run, and as he ran, some mocked, others threatened, and some cried after him to return; and among those that did so, there were two that resolved to fetch him back by force. The name of the one was Obstinate, and the name of the other Pliable. Now by this time the man was got a good distance from them, but, however, they were resolved to pursue him, which they did, and in a little time they overtook him. Then said the man, &ldquo;Neighbors, wherefore are ye come?&rdquo; They said, &ldquo;To persuade you to go back with us.&rdquo; But he said, &ldquo;That can by no means be: you dwell,&rdquo; said he, &ldquo;in the city of Destruction, the place also where I was born: I see it to be so; and dying there, sooner or later you will sink lower than the grave: be content, good neighbors, and go along with me.&rdquo;

What, said Obstinate, and leave our friends and our comforts behind us!

Yes, said Christian (for that was his name), because that all which you forsake is not worthy to be compared with a little of that I am seeking to enjoy; and if you will go along with me, and hold it, you shall fare as I myself; for there, where I go, is enough and to spare. Come away, and prove my words.

What are the things you seek, since you leave all the world to find them?

I seek an inheritance incorruptible, undefiled, and that fadeth not away; and it is laid up in heaven, and safe there, to be bestowed, at the time appointed, on them that diligently seek it. Read it so, if you will, in my book.