"Here, in my bosom, lies a curious key—* Pilgrim, beware! nor leave the King's highway; * The wonderful usefulness of the precious promises of God in his word, is here most happily represented, under the figure of A KEY-a key that would open any lock in Doubting-castle. Thus prayer and faith prevailed. THE PILGRIM'S PROGRESS. THE NINTH BOOK. THE PILGRIMS DELIGHTFULLY ENTERTAINED BY THE SHEPHERDS ON THE DELECTABLE MOUNTAINS; WHENCE THEY OBTAIN A PROSPECT OF THE CELES TIAL CITY. PROCEEDING Sweetly tow'rds their journey's end, The Mount Delectable they now ascend: Orchards and vineyards deck the fruitful ground, And cooling fountains ev'ry where abound. Here, safely feeding, num'rous flocks appear, And skilful Shepherds guard their fleecy care, Knowledge, Experience, Watchful, and Sincere, The shepherds' names, to every pilgrim dear. 6 Pilgrims,' say they, 'you're welcome to this place, 'Here stop, refresh, and then proceed in peace.' They to the shepherds' tents with joy repair, And meet with pleasant entertainment there. * By the Delectable Mountains, we may understand the holy delight which Christians, in an advanced state of experience, enjoy, when they get above the world, and by faith behold the glories of the heavenly state; particularly when they are assisted by the ministry of able and faithful pastors, such as are here described. Refresh'd they rise; abroad they early walk; The pious shepherds join in friendly talk: The morn was beautiful, the sky was clear, And charming prospects all around appear. 'But now,' said they, 'to help your growth in grace, 'We'll show you all the wonders of the place.' To view the hill of Error first they go; The further side was steep and far below. Dead bodies mangled lay unburied there, 'These men,' the shepherds said, ' once tower'd high In curious speculations to the sky: 'The danger of their pride and error view, Deliv'rance thence their efforts all in vain! |