[2] 'Convert,' for 'be ye converted,' was a common mode of speech in Bunyan's time. It is so used in Holy Writ, Isaiah 6:10.—Ed.
[3] Armorial bearings as now worn by heralds embroidered on the tabard or coat.—Ed.
[4] A common custom when death takes place. The two great toes are tied together, to make the body look decent; and formerly the hands were placed with the palms together, as if in the attitude of prayer, and were kept in that posture by tying the thumbs together.—Ed.
[5] Without fail, or in spite of all hindrance.—Ed.
[6] Alluding to wrestlers. Some modes of throwing each other down are called fair, others foul or unfair.—Ed.
[7] Sincerity is the fountain and source of all real inquiries after truth, holiness, and heaven. It leads to personal examination of God's Word, which leads us from the complexity of human inventions to the simplicity of the gospel.—Ed
[8] The exact spelling of Bunyan is here followed; but whether he meant 'coped,' 'covered,' or 'cooped'—inclosed, or shut in—must be left to the reader's judgment. I prefer the latter.—Ed.
[9] Fit, convenient. 'Deft' is now obsolete.—Ed.
[10] Full of fear and dread. Bunyan, in his Holy War, brings his immense armies of doubters, under General Incredulity, from Hell-gate Hill.—Ed.
[11] Quick, nimble, active, powerful spirits. Wight is now obsolete, except in irony; see Imperial Dictionary.—Ed.