force, the names of whom were Obstinate and Pliable. Now, by this
time, the man had gone a good way off, but at last they came up
to him.

Then said Christian, Friends, why are you come?

To bid you go back with us, said they.

But, quoth he, that can by no means be; you dwell in the City of
Destruction, the place where I, too, was born. I know it to be
so, and there you will die and sink down to a place which burns
with fire; be wise, good friends, and come with me.

What! and leave our good, and all out kith and kin?

Yes, said Christian, for that all which you might leave is but a
grain to that which I seek, and if you will go with me and hold
it firm, you shall fare as well as I; for there, where I go, you
will find all you want and to spare. Come with me, and prove my
words.

Obstinate.--What are the things you seek, since you leave all the
world to find them?

Christian.--I seek those joys that fade not, which are laid up in
a place of bliss--safe there for those who go in search of them.
Read it so, if you will, in my book.

Obstinate.--Tush! Off with your book. Will you go back with us or
no?