SAPPHIRE POOL—BISCUIT BASIN © Haynes, St. Paul
The impression that was made on the explorers of the Yellowstone regions is indicated by certain names that were given to some places, such as "Devil's Kitchen," "Devil's Frying Pan," "Black Growler," "Hell Broth Springs," "Devil's Hoof," "Devil's Inkwell," "Hell's Half Acre," etc.
That the suggestion of these things should be a mere freak, or fancy of the mind is out of the question, when there is so much scriptural proof to the contrary.
Man has been created in the image of God, and a little lower than the angels (Heb. 2:7). There is a voice that speaks to the soul when all others are hushed. Intuitively he knows that punishment awaits the wicked, however much he may try to stifle his conscience and evade the issue.
The only way to escape the wrath that is to come, is through the atoning blood, the efficacy of which is proved when conditions are met. "Without shedding of blood is no remission" (Heb. 9:22).
PUNCH BOWL © Haynes, St. Paul
The Punch Bowl is situated in a narrow divide in the valley. Its rim is ornamented with yellow, saffron, and red. It is one of the gems of beauty in the upper basin, and is so located as to revive the spirits of those who, starting out on foot, from the Upper Basin Camp and Old Faithful Inn, have grown weary in making the tour. When our guide called it out, I felt that I could go no farther without resting, but after tarrying a few minutes, and admiring its beauty, I was refreshed. I was, perhaps, the only one in the company who was overtaxed physically, and had to trust to the good will of the guide not to leave me too far behind. He kindly took notice, and halted, giving everybody a few minutes to rest, while he explained the scientific action of the geysers.
These beautiful springs in remote places reminded me of the gems of salvation that are obtained only through sacrifice and suffering. There is always a price to be paid for anything that is of worth. It cost me something to visit some of them on foot, but I was well paid. After leaving the Punch Bowl we followed the trail down across the bridge where a number of surprises awaited us. The Handkerchief Pool, which is sometimes called the Laundry, was among them. We threw our handkerchiefs in and they were carried down into the opening, and then brought back and delivered, as carefully as if they were being handled by unseen hands.