132 BEYOND THE BLUE MOUNTAINS.

never reach the Blue Mountains nor the country at the other side
unless you undergo a certain training which my Lord the King has
ordered for you. Now, Primrose, don’t be afraid—leave Buttercup im
my care. He is safe; you will see him again some day. Hat this
nice bowl of bread and milk which I have prepared for you, and then
continue your journey.”

“But how am I to go?” said Primrose. ‘“ How can I possibly
know the way?”

“Come out to the door of my tent, and I will show you something.
Do you notice this narrow silver path which runs along the ground ?
You have to stoop low, or you won’t find it. There now, do you
not see it?”

«Yes, it is very bright—it almost dazzles my eyes.”

«Tt won’t dazzle them when you walk on it. With each step you
take on that silver winding path you will gain more strength and
courage. That path not only leads to the Blue Mountains, but straight
through them to the gates of the Golden Country at the other side ;
yes, and through those gates to the heart of the King and to the
arms of your mother, who waits and longs to fold them round you
again.”

“Oh, Patience!” said Primrose, “what courage you give me! I
can even bear to say good-bye to Buttercup when you speak like that.”

“Don’t have any fear about Buttercup,” said Patience ; * he is m
my care now. Hat your bread and milk, my child, and then go.”

A. few minutes later Primrose had started on the silver path which
led to the Blue Mountains.

She followed the path for two or three miles without meeting any
difficulties or coming across any enemies, but then suddenly there came
an unexpected difficulty. Right across the path ran a thick and very
high hedge, composed of dreadful thorns.

The poor little girl stood still, and clasped her hands in conster-
nation. ;

“Tf IT push my way through that terrible hedge, I shall die,”
thought Primrose. “ Those cruel thorns will tear me limb from limb.
Oh! what shall I do?”