The pilgrim's progress, from this world to that which is to come (1840)

by John Bunyan

For other versions of this work, see The Pilgrim's Progress.

THE

PILGRIM'S PROGRESS,

FROM THIS WORLD TO THAT WHICH IS TO COME,

GLASGOW;

PUBLISHED BY ORR AND SONS, BRUNSWICK (illegible text)

43

The progress of the Pilgrim is here represent-d by Christian leaving the City of Destruction, in terror and alarm at its fate. He is met by Evangelist, who, directed him to fly from the warth to come, and keep yonder shining light in his eye, where it should be told him what to do.

Christian had not proceeded far, till he fell in to the slough of Despond, and was relieved by one called Help, who set him on his way. He was afterwards beguiled by Worldly-wiseman; but was again put right way by Evangalist,

Christian at length arrived at the gate, upon which was inscribed "knock and it shall be opened." He knocked and it was opened by one Goodwill, who let him in. Beelzebub as he entered gave him a pull but Christian escaped.

Christian having fairly escaped Beelzebub and his emissaries; was kindly welcomed by Good-will, and shewed many rare sights by Interpreter: he passed the walls of salvation and came to a cross, where his bundle dropped off.

Christian now being rid of his burden, pushed on more lightly, and took the narrow path up the hill, and struggled hard till he arrived at the arbour, prepared by the Lord of the place for weary pilgrims, where he sat and refreshed himself

When Christian had got to the top of the hill he met two men running, named Timorous and Mistrust; who said they had been bound for Mount Zion, but meeting with two Lions, they were afraid: Christian passed the Lions, who, being chained, could not hurt him.

When Christian lift up his eyes, he beheld the alace of Beautiful; and after a few interrogaions, was admitted by a damsel called Discretion, who with her two sisters, Piety and prudence, he held a long conversation.

After leaving these good damsels, Christian passed on his way; and in the middle of the valley of Humiliation, he met with Apollion, with whom he had a bloody struggle; Apollion throwing darts as thick as hail: but at last Christian overcame.

Now at the end of this valley was another called the valley of the shadow of death; in the midst of which he perceived the mouth of hell; from which flame and smoke issued out in such abundance, that he was obliged to put up his sword and betake himself to All-prayer.

Shortly after this he came up with Faithful; with whom he held sweet converse till they came to Vanity Fair. A merchant asking what they would buy, they said the truth; which he took amiss, and raised a hubbub; so that they were both taken up and put in a cage, for public view

Christian and Faithful were brought before Mr. Hategood, to stand their trial. Envy, Superstition, and Hypocrisy, were brought forward as evidences, who did not fail to tell a partial story; which a partial jury confirmed; and Faithful was condemned to die at the stake.

Faithful was then brought out and suffered at the take: Thus came he to his end, but there stood behind the multitude a chariot, and horses into which he was taken up and carried through the clouds. Christian escaping went on his way

Christian soon fell in with Hopeful, another pilgrim, with whom he journeyed; and they having slept in the policies of Doubting Castle, were ⟨taken⟩ prisoners, by Giant Despair, who treated them harshly: a key found in Christians bosom, opened the doors, and they made their escape.

Having escaped from Giant Despair, they soon met with the Shepherds of the Delectable Mountains. Leaving this country, they came to the enchanted ground, where they fell in with some of the shining inhabitants, of the City

Christian and Hopeful drawing nigh to the

⟨celestial⟩ City, beheld the streets were paved with pure gold, but there was a very deep river through which they must pass the Pilgrims were alarmed and begun to sink; but again and were welcomed on the other side by two glorious persons

Christian's wife and children wept for him until a heavenly messenger gave her a letter to follow her husband, and live with him for ever. At first she was overcome, but taking the road with all her children they fell in with Mercy, and went toward the wicket gate.

After they had got safely through the Slough of Despond, they arrived at the gate, where they knocked a long time, till at length the keeper called out "Who's there," and opened the gate, and taking Christiana by the hand welcomed them saying "Suffer little children to come unto me."

With some difficulty Merey was admitted, and they safely arrived at Interpreter's house; supper being ready, and thanks given, they partook of a hearty repast; Interpreter asked how she became a pilgrim, she said, it was by the loss of her husband, and a letter from the King of Zion.

In the morning they were much refreshed. Greatheart was sent along with them to guide them on their way. They passed the place where the load fell from Christian's back; and came to the place where Simple, Sloth, and Presumption were hanging in chains.

They soon arrived at the Hill of Difficulty Greatheart shewed them the spring where Christian drank; they then begun to ascend the hill, but Christiana began to pant and want rest; but Greatheart encouraged them, telling them they were near the Arbour, where they would find rest

Being refreshed at the Arbour, and approaching Doubting Castle, Greatheart determined to level it with the ground. He and the giant had a severe fight, but the giant was overcome. They then demolished the Castle, and released many prisoners, where many strang sights were seen.

They still persevered on in their journey by the straight way, and narrow path of pilgrims; occasionally meeting with difficulties and encouragement, till they arrived at the land of Beulah, where the sun shines night and day; and here they betook themselves to rest.

Now while they lay here there was a post came from the Celestial City, with a letter to Christianna: the contents were “Hail good woman! I bring thee good tidings that the master calleth for thee, and ⟨expecteth⟩ that thou shouldst stand in his presence within these ten days.”

Now the day drew on that Christiana must be gone. So the road was full of people to see her take her journey. So she came forth and entered the river with a beckon of farewell to those that follow her to the river side. The last words she was heard to say, were, “I come, Lord, to be with thee, and bless thee."

So her children and friends returned to their place; for those that waited for Christiana had carried her out of their sight. So she went and called and entered in at the gate with all the ceremonies of Joy that Christian had done be fore her.

finis