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THE LABYRINTH OF THE WORLD

the second gate only one entered into the various streets of the city. I counted six principal streets all running from east to west side by side, and in the centre of them there was a large, round square or market-place; behind it there stood to the west, on a rocky, abrupt hillock, a high and splendid castle, at which almost all the inhabitants of the town gazed.

(The Gate of Entrance and the Gate of Separation.)

3. And my guide, Impudence, said to me: "Here, pilgrim, thou hast this dear world which thou wast so desirous to behold. I have, therefore, first led thee to this height that thou mayest gaze on the whole world, and understand its order. That eastern gate is the gate of life, through which all pass who come to live in the world. That second gate is the gate of separation, whence each person, according to the lot he draws, betakes himself to this or that calling.

(The Conditions of Life are divided into Six Orders.)

4. "The streets, then, which thou beholdest are the various estates, orders, and avocations which men choose. Thou seest six principal streets. In this one to the south those who belong to the state of domestic life reside—parents, children, and servants. In the next street live the tradesmen and all who are busied in commerce. In that third street, which is nearest the market-place, live the