The Curiosities of Dudley and the Black Country, From 1800 to 1860 / Also an Account of the Trials and Sufferings of Dud Dudley, with His Mettallum Martis: Etc.

by C. F. G. Clark

MORNING SERVICE.

Second Lesson.

After these things the MAN OF WAR passed over and came unto a place called the HUSTINGS, in the land of the LYGONITES, over against WORCESTER, and great multitudes followed him.

And the children of the land rejoiced greatly because of him, for he was a mighty man of valour.

And the Chief of the LYGONITES went forth to meet him, and asked him, saying,—

Wherefore art thou come?

And the MAN OF WAR answered and said, for deliverance of the needy am I come, that the poor may rejoice, and the heart of the humble be glad.—

Then the LYGONITISH leader asked him again, knowest thou not that this country is mine? that I am chosen of the Elders of the Land?

But he answered Verily I say unto you, though the Elders have chosen thee, thou hast purchased them with Bribes;—yea, they have received the wages of iniquity.

And when the Chief of the LYGONITES saw, that by words he could prevail nothing, he set his army in array against the MAN OF WAR,—and the battle joined.