But we will come again to this valley of humiliation. It is the best and most fruitful piece of ground in all these parts. It is fat ground, and, as you see, consisteth much in meadows; and if a man was to come here in summer-time, as we do now, if he knew not anything before thereof, and if he also delighted himself in the sight of his eyes, he might see that which would be delightful to him. Behold how green this valley is! also how beautiful with lilies! I have known many labouring men that have got good estates in this valley of humiliation. “For God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace to the humble”; for indeed it is a very fruitful soil, and doth bring forth handfuls. Some also have wished that the next way to their father’s house were here, that they might be troubled no more with either hills or mountains to go over; but the way is the way, and there’s an end.
5. The following extracts illustrate respectively Restoration comedy and tragedy:
(1) (This is part of a scene between Aimwell, a gentleman who is staying at an inn, and Gibbet, a highwayman, who is trying to insinuate himself into his company by calling himself a military officer.)
Enter Gibbet
Gibbet. Sir, I’m yours.
Aimwell. ’Tis more than I deserve, sir, for I don’t know you.
Gibbet. I don’t wonder at that, sir, for you never saw me before—[aside]—I hope.
Aimwell. And pray, sir, how came I by the honour of seeing you now?
Gibbet. Sir, I scorn to intrude upon any gentleman, but my landlord—
Aimwell. O sir, I ask your pardon, you’re the captain he told me of?