Then they came to The Delectable Mountains, which the Lord of the Hill owns. Here they saw fruit trees, vines, shrubs, woods, and streams, and drank and ate of the grapes. Now there were men at the tops of these hills who kept watch on their flocks, and as they stood by the high way, Christian and Hopeful leant on their staves to rest, while thus they spoke to the men: Who owns these Delectable Mountains, and whose are the sheep that feed on them?
Men.—These hills are Immanuel's, and the sheep are His too, and He laid down his life for them.
Christian.—Is this the way to The Celestial City?
Men.—You are in the right road.
Christian.—How far is it?
Men.—Too far for all but those that shall get there, in good truth.
Christian.—Is the way safe?
Men.—Safe for those for whom it is to be safe; but the men of sin shall fall there.
Christian.—Is there a place of rest here for those that faint on the road?
Men.—The Lord of these Hills gave us a charge to help those that came here, should they be known to us or not; so all the good things of the place are yours.