I saw then that they went on their way to a pleasant river, which David calleth, The river of God, but John, the river of the water of life. Now their way lay on the bank of the river. Here they walked with great delight; they drank also of the water of the river, which was enlivening to their weary spirits. And on the banks on either side, were green trees for all manner of fruit; and the leaves were for the healing of the nations. On each side of the river was also a meadow, curiously beautified with flowers; and it was green all the year long. In this they lay down and slept; for here they might lie down safely: but being not yet at their journey’s end, after a short time they departed.
They had not journied far, before the river and the way divided from each other. At this they were not a little sorry; yet they durst not go out of the way. The path now grew more and more rough, and their feet were tender with travelling. So the souls of the pilgrims were much discouraged, by reason of the way. Now a little before them there was a meadow on the left hand, and a stile to go over into it. Then said Christian, if this meadow lies along by our way-side let us go into it. He went to see, and a path lay along by the way, on the other side of the fence. “’Tis as I wished, said Christian; here is a smooth path; come let us go over.”
Hopeful. But how if it should lead us out of the way?
Christian. Nay, look, does it not go along by the road-side? So Hopeful went after him over the stile. When they were gone over, they found the path very easy for their feet; and withal, they saw one walking before them. They called and asked him, Whither that way led? He said, to mount Zion. Look there, said Christian. Did I not tell you so? So they followed, and he went before them; but the night coming on, they soon lost sight of him.
He that went before (Vain-confidence by name) not seeing the way, (for it was very dark) fell into a deep pit, which was dug there on purpose, and was dashed to pieces with his fall.
Now they heard him fall, and called to know what was the matter; but there was none to answer, except with groans. Then said Hopeful, Where are we now? But Christian was silent, fearing he had led him out of the way. And now it began to thunder and lighten, and rain; and the waters in the meadow rose amain.
Then Hopeful groaned in himself, and said, O that I had kept on my way!
Christian. Who would have thought that this path should have led us out of the way?
Hopeful. I was afraid at first, and should have spoke plainer, but that you are older than I.
Christian. I am sorry I brought you out of the way. But we must not stand still. Let us go back.