Evangelist.—Did not I point out to thee the way to the Wicket Gate?
Christian.—Yes, you did, Sir.
Evangelist.—How is it, then, that thou hast so soon gone out of the way?
Christian.—When I had got out of the Slough of Despond I met a man who told me that in a town near, I might find one who could take off my load.
Evangelist.—What was he?
Christian.—He had fair looks, and said much to me, and got me at last to yield; so I came here. But when I saw this hill, and how steep it was, I made a stand, lest it should fall on my head.
Evangelist.—What said the man to thee?
When Evangelist had heard from Christian all that took place, he said: Stand still a while, that I may show thee the words of God.
So Evangelist went on to read, 'Now the just shall live by faith, but if a man draw back, my soul shall have no joy in him.' Is not this the case with thee? said he: Hast not thou drawn back thy feet from the way of peace, to thine own cost; and dost thou not spurn the most high God?
Then Christian fell down at his feet as dead, and said: Woe is me! Woe is me!