Once more I had a dream, and it was this:--Christiana, the wife
of Christian, had been on her knees to pray, and as she rose, she
heard a loud knock at the door. If you come in God's name, said
she, come in. Then I thought in my dream that a form, clad in
robes as white as snow, threw back the door, and said, Peace be
to this house. At a sight so new to her, Christiana at first grew
pale with fear, but in a short time took heart and told him she
would fain know whence he came, and why. So he said his name was
Secret, and that he dwelt with those that are on high. Then said
her guest: Christiana, here is a note for thee, which I have
brought from Christian. So she took it, broke the seal, and read
these words, which were in gold:--"To her who was my dear wife.
The King would have you do as I have done, for that was the way
to come to this land, and to dwell with Him in joy." When
Christiana read this, she shed tears, and said to him who brought
the note, Sir, will you take me and my sons with you, that we,
too, may bow down to this king? But he said, Christiana, joy is
born of grief: care must come first, then bliss. To reach the
land where I dwell, thou must go through toils, as well as scorn
and taunts. But take the road that leads up to the field gate
which stands in the head of the way; and I wish you all good
speed. I would have thee wear this note in thy breast, that it
may be read by thee till thou must give it up at the last gate
that leads to The Celestial City.

Then Christiana spoke to her boys, and said: My sons, I have of
late been sad at the death of Christian, your dear sire. But I
feel sure now that it is well with him, and that he dwells in the
land of life and peace. I have, too, felt deep grief at the