MERCY RESOLVES TO BECOME A PILGRIM. 195

CEA PAE REE.
THE WICKET-GATE,

Y this time Christiana was got on her way, and Mercy went along with her. So
as they went, her children being there also, Christiana began to discourse.
“And, Mercy,” said Christiana, “I take this as an unexpected favor, that wee

 

: ‘shouldst set forth out of doors with me, to accompany me a little in my way.”

Mer) \Then said young Mercy (for she was but young), “If I Uoue ut it would be
to purpose to go with you, I would never go near the town any more.’

Cur. “Well, Mercy,” said Christiana, “cast in thy lot with me: I well know what
will be the end of our pilgrimage: my husband is where he would not but be for all
the gold in the Spanish mines. Nor shalt thou be rejected, though thou goest but
upon my invitation. The King who hath sent for me and my children is One that
delighteth in mercy. Besides, if thou wilt, I will hire thee, and thou shalt go along
with me as my servant; yet we will have all things in common betwixt thee and me:
only go along with me.”

Mer. But how shall I be ascertained that I also shall be entertained? Had 1 this
hope but from one that can tell, I would make no stick at all, but would go, being
helped by Him that can help, though the way be never so tedious.

Cur. Well, loving Mercy, I will tell thee what thou shalt do: go with me to the
wicket-gate, and there I will further inquire for thee; and if there thou dost not meet
with encouragement, I will ‘be content that thou shalt return to thy place: I also will
pay thee for thy kindness which thou showest to me and my children, in the accom-
panying of us in our way as thou “dost.

Mer. Then will I go thither, and will take what shall follome and the Lord grant
that my lot may there fall, even as the King of heaven shall haye His heart upon me!

Christiana was then glad at her heart, not only that she had a companion, but also
for that she had prevailed with this poor maid to fall in love with her own salvation.
So they went on together, and Mer cy began to weep.

Then said Christiana, “ Wherefore weepeth my sister so?”

Mer. “Alas!” said she, “who can but lament, that shall but rightly consider what
a state and condition my poor relations are in, that yet remain in our sinful town?