These new associates were welcomed most cordially by Mr. World who left nothing undone that might add to their comfort or pleasure.
The merry company passed down the valley and paused at a magnificent temperance saloon which occupied nearly the whole space between the two Highways. Into this place of attractive rooms I saw many enter from the King’s Highway, much to the displeasure of their great Master.
In this infernal guise Satan seduces many an unsuspecting traveler to take one more step downward toward the lowest service of his kingdom. Mr. World courteously offered refreshments and conducted his friends into the “Ladies Parlor” where they drank alleged unfermented wines, and admired the sculpture and works of art which adorned the place. They were then offered their choice of porter, sweet cider, root beer, hot punch (special for a cold), or eggnog for a weak heart. Thus each one was enabled to find a beverage directly suited to his need or taste, for some had contracted a cold, while others were suffering with cardiac troubles.
Not far from this respectable place, and connected secretly therewith, stood a group of buildings patronized by the lower order of criminals and inebriates. These haunts bore a black reputation.
Mr. World and his joyous companions, by reason of their refined natures and good standing in the church, would not so much as look at such despicable resorts, but continued their journey until they came to a wider section of the valley where they saw numberless rescue bands at work, but especially a great army of Endeavorers presenting a formidable front.
“Whence came this company so great that it cannot be numbered?” asked Mr. World in a state of nervous agitation.
One of the new companions quickly answered: “They come from the King’s Highway and are trying to capture the kingdom of this world and bring it into subjection to God. I know all about them and can testify that they are a mighty and glorious band.” The regiments of this great host were marching on, each soldier equipped with the full panoply of his station. Many of the pilgrims on the Broad Highway trembled at the presence of so powerful an army. It has caused the enemy much concern how to meet and, if possible, conquer this foe. This army of Endeavorers constantly grows and, according to the claims of the enemy, the most successful plans to oppose it are not yet matured. Satan has promised his forces that he would utterly rout these daring legions as soon as some new inventions of war can be perfected.
The merry companions, not being moved with anger, endured the gigantic display of this host without chagrin.
Mr. World quieted his rising fears and urged his comrades onward past the Tobacco Station until they reached the centre of the valley where the King’s Highway was the roughest, and the Broad Highway the smoothest.
Here was built the most remarkable structure of the valley. A high tower of imposing strength occupied the whole space between the two highways. Its foundations were broad and totally covered the King’s Highway with a massive arch.