At last the number of the helpless became so great that there was no
one to serve them. Many waited day after day for the aid that never
came, and they grew so weak with waiting that they could not take up
their burdens. The little ones were thrust aside by the strong, and as
the band went on many of them were forgotten and left behind. They
fainted and fell by the healing springs, because there was no one to
give them drink, and they could not help themselves.

And the burden of the way grew very hard and grievous to bear. Then
there were those who said that one cannot help another save by leading
him to help himself. All that is given him must he repay. Sooner or
later each must bear his own burden. Each must make his own way
through the forest in such manner as he may.

So they turned back to the old Chart. They would read his words again,
that they might be led to better deeds. In these words they found help
and cheer. These words spake they one to another. They came like rain
to a thirsty field, or as balm to a wound, or as good news from a far
country. And there was wonderful consolation in the thought that for
every step of the way he had spoken the right word.

So those who knew his words best were chosen as leaders, and great
companies followed them. And as band after band passed along, his
message sounded from one to another. His words were ever on their
lips. Those who could run swiftly carried them far and wide, even into
the depths of the forest. To those who were in sorrow they came as
glad tidings of great joy, and beautiful upon the mountains seemed the
feet of those who bore them. Wherever men were weary and heavy laden,
they were cheered by his promise of rest.