They journeyed on. The light grew more and more brilliant. It was not the kind of light that dazzles the eye and pains: it gave an effect more like that which one feels in watching the sun rise, when the first streaks of dawn come in the sky and every moment brings more light, makes all objects more distinct and vivid. It seemed as if each step took them nearer and nearer to the serene splendour of noontime.
At last they came to a Temple surrounded by trees, flowers, and shrubs of every sort, built within this wonderful and beautiful Garden.
“This is the Temple of Wisdom,” said their guide.
“The Tree—?” questioned David.
“The Tree stands within the courtyard of the Temple,” answered the stranger, “for the Temple has been built around it.”
“May we enter?” asked David.
“All who desire to enter are welcome,” said the stranger.
A sound broke forth through the sweetness of the fragrant air. It was the joyous song of the Blue Bird!
