30. [CHAPTER XII.]

[CONFIDENCE.—Carnal-security prevailing in the town, a coolness takes place between the inhabitants and Emmanuel; who, being greatly offended, privately withdraws—Gooly-four, who detects the cause of his removal, excites the people to destroy Mr. Carnal-security.—Measures are then taken to induce Emmanuel to return.

But there was a man in the town of Mansoul, and his name was Mr. Carnal-security. This man did, after all this mercy bestowed The story of Mr. on this corporation, bring the town of Carnal-security, Mansoul into great and grievous slavery and bondage. A brief account of him and of his doings take as followeth:—

When Diabolus at first took possession of the town of Mansoul, he brought thither with himself a great number of Diabolonians, men of his own condition. Now among these there was one whose name was Mr. Self-conceit, and a notable brisk man he was, as any that in those days did possess the town of Mansoul. Diabolus then perceiving this man to be active and bold, sent him upon many desperate designs, tho which he managed better, and more to the pleasing of his Lord, than most that came with him from the dens could do. Wherefore finding of him so fit for his purpose, he preferred him, and made him next to the great Lord Will-be-will, of whom we have written so much before. Now the Lord Will-be-will being in those days very well pleased with him, and with his achievements, gave him his daughter, the Lady Fear-nothing, to wife. Now of my Lady Fear-nothing did this Mr. Carnal-security. Self-conceit beget this gentleman Mr. Carnal-security. Wherefore there being then in Mansoul those strange kinds of mixtures, it was How blessed is the Christian who lives in the holy enjoyment of his high and heavenly privileges? Every day is a feast day, bringing fresh discoveries of grace and forefables of glory.—(En.)

This is a beautiful representation of the holy enjoyment of Divine things, when the soul is emancipated from sin, and enjoys a little heaven on earth. It is in Bunyan's Grace

Alamating, No. 2:2—'I had strange apprehensions of the grace of God, so that I could hardly bear up under it; it was so out of measure amazing, that I think if it had abode long upon me, it would have made me incapable of business.'—(En.)

Carnal security, or comfort and security in the flesh, instead of living on Christ by faith.—(En.)

hard for them in some cases to find out who were natives, who not; for Mr. Carnal-security sprang from my Lord Will-be-will by mother's side, though he had for his father a Diaboloman by nature.¹

Well, this Carnal-security took much after his father and mother; he was self-conceited, he feared nothing, he was also a very busy man; nothing of news, nothing of doctrine, nothing of alteration, or talk of alteration, could at any time be on foot in Mansoul, but he sure Mr. Carnal-security would be at the head or tail of it; but to be sure he would decline those that he deemed the weakest, and stood always with them, in his way of standing, that he supposed was the strongest side. Now when Shaddai the mighty, and Emmanuel his Son made war upon Mansoul to take it, this Mr. Carnal-security was then in town, and was a great doer among the people, encouraging them in their rebellion, putting of them upon hardening of themselves in their resisting of the King's forces; but when he saw that the town of Mansoul was taken and converted to the use of the glorious Prince Emmanuel, and when he also saw what was become of Diabolus, and how he was unroasted, and made to quit the castle in the greatest contempt and scorn, and that the town of Mansoul was well lined with captains, engines of war, and men, and also provision, what doth he but shly wheel about also; and as he had served Diabolus against the good Prince, so he feigned that he would serve the Prince against his foes. And having got some little smattering of Emmanuel's things by the end,² being bold, he ventures himself into the company of the townsmen, and attempts also to chat among them. Now the town he knew that the power and strength of the town of Mansoul was great, and that it could not but be pleasing to the people if he cried up their might and their glory. Wherefore he beginneth his tale with the power and strength of Mansoul, and affirmed that it was impregnable. Now magnifying their captains, and their slings, and their rains; then crying up their fortifications, and strong holds; and lastly, the assurances that they had from their Prince that Mansoul should be happy for ever. But when he ¹ There are so dismayed, that no merely human vigilance or impurity can detect the infuriate in the walls of Mansoul, because the necessity of the city, "search" and try me, O God, - but:

² I have not been able to find any kind of one of the people. It probably means, that without any money into the fort, a state of Mansoul—its lost, helpless, hopeless, miserable condition, and its own, but, now, I probably have so many, proud of the situation of Mansoul, I would as it rule, without the trouble of prayer or watchfulness. How essential it is that we examine premises before we jump at conclusions, or take them by the end—(L.) saw that some of the men of the town were tickled and taken with his discourse, he makes it his business, and walking from street to street, home to house, and man to man, he at last brought Mansoul to dance after his pipe, and to grow almost as carnally secure as himself; so from talking they went to feasting, and from feasting to sporting; and so to some other matters. Now Emmanuel was yet in the town of Mansoul, and he wisely observed their doings. My Lord Mayor, my Lord Will-be-will, and Mr. Recorder, were also all taken with the words of this tattling Diaboloman gentleman, forgetting that their Prince had given them warning before to take heed that they were not beguiled with any Diaboloman sleight. He had further told them that the security of the now flourishing town of Mansoul, did not so much be in her present fortifications and force, as in her so using of what she had, as might oblige her Emmanuel to abide within her castle. For the right doctrine of Emmanuel was, that the town of Mansoul should take heed that they forget not his Father's love and his; also that they should so demean themselves as to continue to keep themselves therein. Now this was not the way to do it, namely, to fall in love with one of the Diabolonians, and with such an one too as Mr. Carnal-security was, and to be led up and down by the nose by him. They should have heard their Prince, feared their Prince, loved their Prince, and have stoned this naughty pack to death, and took care to have walked in the ways of their Prince's prescribing, for then should their power have been as a river, when their righteousness had been like the waves of the sea. Now when Emmanuel perceived that, through the policy of Mr. Carnal-security, the hearts of the men of Mansoul were chilled, and abated in their practical love to him; first, he bemoans them, and ends their state with the Secretary, saying, O that my people had hearkened unto me, and that Mansoul had walked in my ways; I would have fed them with the finest of the wheat, and with honey out of the rock weald I have remained them, to love it. This done, he said in his heart. ² Carnal-security the offspring of S. I. and the Indians, is one of our most subtle women and men of almost a group. To report in our fortifications, I am sure of grace, is our duty and privilege; but all our trust is not so much living, not so much living. But I had by the men, the women, I was strong and I had without resistance, or in any way, I was not.

³ A child in religion would naturally not only be a woman's way, but for the men, I had a man's way. But I had that he had no good, and I had a person who was very well, but I had a man's way. But I had a man's way. But I had a man's way. But I had a man's way. But I had a man's way. But I had a man's way. But I had a man's way. But I had a man's way. But I had a man's way. But I had a man's way. But I had a man's way. But I had a man's way. But I had a man's way. I will return to the court and go to my place, till Mansoul shall consider and acknowledge their offence. And he did so, and the cause and manner of his going away from them was thus—

The cause was, for that Mansoul declined him, as is manifest in these particulars.

The way of Mansoul's back-ship 1. They left off their former way of visiting of him, they came not to his royal palace as afore. 2. They did not regard, nor yet take notice that he came, or came not to visit them. 3. The love-feasts that had wont to be between their Prince and them, though he made them still, and called them to them, yet they neglected to come at them, or to be delighted with them. 4. They waited not for his counsels, but began to be headstrong and confident in themselves, concluding that now they were strong and invincible, and that Mansoul was secure, and beyond all reach of the foe, and that her state must needs be unalterable for ever.¹ Now, as was said, Emmanuel perceiving that by the craft of Mr. Carnal-security, the town of Mansoul was taken off from their dependence upon him, and upon his Father by him, and set upon what by them was bestowed upon it; he first, as I said, bemoaned their state, then he used means to make them understand that the way that they went on in was dangerous. For he sent my Lord High Secretary to them, to forbid them such ways; but twice when he came to them he found them at dinner in Mr. Carnal-security's parlour, and perceiving also that they were not willing to reason about matters concerning their good, they gave the Holy Ghost and Christ he took grief and went his way. The which when he had told to the Prince Emmanuel, he took offence, and was grieved also, and so made provision to return to his Father's court. Now the methods of his withdrawing, as I was saying before, were thus, 1. Even while he was yet with them in Mansoul, he kept himself close, and more retired than formerly. 2. His speech was not now, if he came in their company, so pleasant and familiar as formerly. 3. Nor did he, as in times past, send to Mansoul from his table those dainty bits which he was wont to do. 4. Nor when they came to visit him, as now and then they would, would he be so easily spoken with as they found him to be in times past. They might now knock once, the work of yea twice, but he would seem not at all to regard them; whereas formerly, at the sound of their feet, he would up and run, and meet them half way, and take them too, and lay them in his bosom. ¹ O Christian, beware of the first step in backsliding! While you seek the Saviour's face, and walk humbly with God, you are safe.—(Ed.)

But thus Emmanuel carried it now, and by his carriage he sought to make them bethink themselves and return to him. But, alas! they did not consider, they did not know his ways, they regarded not, they were not touched with these, nor with the true remembrance of former favours. Wherefore what does he but in private manner withdraw himself, first from his palace, then to the gate of the town, and so away from Mansoul he goes, till they should acknowledge their offence, and more earnestly seek his face. He. v. 18. Mr. God's-peace also laid down his commission, and would for the present act no longer in the town of Mansoul.² Ex. xi. 21. Thus they walked contrary to him, and he again by way of retaliation, walked contrary to them. 1a. xxv. 21-24. But, alas! by this time they were so hardened in their way, and had so drunk in the doctrine of Mr. Carnal-security, that the departing of their Prince touched them not, nor was he remembered by them when gone; and so, of consequence, his absence not condoled by them. J. 11. 27.

Now there was a day wherein this old gentleman Mr. Carnal-security did again make a feast for the town of Mansoul, and there was at that time in the town one Mr. Godly-fear, one now but little set by, though formerly one of great request. This man old Carnal-security had a mind, if possible, to gull and debauch, and abuse as he did the rest, and therefore he now bids him to the feast with his neighbours; so the day being come they prepare, and he goes and appears with the rest of the guests; and being all set at the table, they did eat and drink, and were merry even all but this one man. For Mr. Godly-fear sat like a stranger, and did neither eat, nor was merry. The which when Mr. Carnal-security perceived, he presently addressed himself in a speech thus to him: CARN. Mr. Godly-fear, are you not well? you seem to be ill of body or mind, or both. I have a cordial of Mr. Forgot-good's making, the which, Sir, if you will take a dram of, I hope it may make you bonny and blithe, and so make you more fit for we feasting companions.

GODLY. Unto whom the good old gentleman discreetly replied, Sir, I thank you for all things courteous and civil, but for your cordial I have no list thereto. But a word to the natives of Mansoul—you the elders and chief of Mansoul, to me it is strange to see you so jocund and merry, when the town of Mansoul is in such woful case.

CARN. Then said Mr. Carnal-security, You want sleep, good Sir, I doubt. If you please lie down and take a nap, and we, meanwhile, will be merry.

² Christ and the Spirit, and consequently peace, withdraw from the carnelly secure.—(Mason.)

GODLY. Then said the good man as follows, Sir, if you were not destitute of an honest heart, you could not do as you have done, and do

CARN. Then said Mr. Carnal-security, Why?

GODLY. Nay, pray interrupt me not. It is true the town of Mansoul was strong, and, with a proviso, impregnable; but you, the townsmen, have weakened it, and it now lies obnoxious to its foes; nor is it a time to flatter, or be silent. It is you, Mr. Carnal-security, that have willy stripped Mansoul, and driven her glory from her; you have pulled down her towers, you have broken down her gates, you have spoiled her locks and bars. And now to explain myself. From that time that my Lords of Mansoul and you, Sir, grew so great, from that time the strength of Mansoul has been offended, and now he is arisen and is gone. If any shall question the truth of my words, I will answer him by this, and such like questions: Where is the Prince Emmanuel? When did a man or woman in Mansoul see him? When did you hear from him, or taste any of his dainty bits? You are now a feasting with this Diaboloman monster, but he is not your prince. I say, therefore, though enemies from without, had you taken heed, could not have made a prey of you, yet since you have sinned against your Prince, your enemies within have been too hard for you. CARN. Then said Mr. Carnal-security, Fie, fie, Mr. Godly-fear, fie; will you never shake off your timorousness? Are you afraid of being sparrow-blasted? Who hath hurt you? Behold I am on your side, only you are for doubting, and I am for being confident. Besides, is this a time to be sad in? A feast is made for mirth; why thou do ye now, to your shame and our trouble, break out into such passionate melancholy language, when you should eat, and drink, and be merry? GODLY. Then said Mr. Godly-fear again, I may well be sad, for Emmanuel is gone from Mansoul. I say again, he is gone, and you, Sir, are the man that has driven him away; yea he is gone without so much as acquainting the nobles of Mansoul with his going, and if that is not a sign of his anger I am not acquainted with the methods of godliness.

And now, my lords and gentlemen— for my speech is still to you—your gradual steelining from him did provoke

¹ Pride goeth before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall. Pr. xvi. 18.—(P).

² This is an absolute term, alluding to a man being as much alarmed at the feather of a sparrow, as at the foot of a trumpet urging him to do his or war. (P).

³ Carnal-security has got into the weather, and a fearful state. Lord Erskine said, 'I respect Lawyer Dalton's doubts more than some men's contention. He has venerable Rowland Hill when appeared to by one of those or really-severe professors, said to him, 'Sir, as you have no doubts, then I shall both fright of you and for you.' Doubts of the merits or willingness of Christ to save are very useful, and there are him gradually to depart from you, the which he did for some time, if perhaps you would have been made sensible thereby, and have been renewed by humbling of yourselves; but when he saw that none would regard, nor lay these fearful beginnings of his anger and judgment to heart, he went away from this place, and this I saw with mine eye. Wherefore now, while you boast, your strength is gone, you are like the man that had lost his locks that before did wave about his shoulders. You may with this lord of your feast shake yourselves, and conclude to do as at other times; but since without him you can do nothing, and he is departed from you, turn your feast into a sigh, and your mirth into lamentation. Then the subordinate Preacher, old Mr. Conscience by name, he that of old was Re-under of Mansoul, being startled at what was said, began to second it thus.

Cox. Indeed, my brethren, quoth he, I fear that Mr. Godly-fear tells us true: I, for my part, have not seen my Prince a long season. I cannot remember the day for my part. Nor can I answer Mr. Godly-fear's question. I doubt, I am afraid that all is naught with Mansoul.

GODLY. Nay, I know that you shall not find him in Mansoul, for he is departed and gone; yea, and gone for the faults of the elders, and for that they rewarded his grace with unsufferable unkindnesses.

Then did the subordinate Preacher look as if he would fall down dead at the table, also. They are all there present, except the man of the house, began to look pale and wan. But having a little recovered themselves and jointly agreeing to believe Mr. Godly-fear and his sayings, they began to consult what was best to be done (now Mr. Carnal-security was gone into his withdrawing room, for he liked not such dumpish doings) both to the man of the house for drawing them into evil, and also to recover Emmanuel's love. And with that, that saying of their Prince came very hot into their minds, which he had bidden them do to such as were false prophets that should arise to delude the town of Mansoul. So they took Mr. Carnal-security, concluding that he must be he, and seasons when the Christian rose above all doubts, but what we have a sinful heart of unbelief, could take on us, to arise to sow the Sun of righteousness. (P).

⁴ Sun grieves the Holy Spirit and causes the Lord to look on him. In humbly, upon wishing with God to be an comfort and peace, but I parting from the Lord's ways though dark was not distressed to the soul. (P).

⁵ Summon, see An act.

⁶ Godly-fear cannot be of proof with Lord's good good. He is not like the man who has no doubt.

⁷ The man who has been the man who has been the man who has been the man who has been the man who has been the man who has been the man who has been the man who has been the man who has been the man who has been the man who has been the man who has been the man who has been the man who has been the man who has been the man who has been the man who has been the man who has been the man who has been the man who has been the man who has burned his house upon him with fire, for he also was a Diabolonian by nature.

So when this was past and over, they bespeed themselves to look for Emmanuel their Prince, and they sought him, but they found him not. Can. v. 4. Then were they more confirmed in the truth of Mr. Godly-fear's sayings, and began also severely to reflect upon themselves for their so vile and ungodly doings; for they concluded now that it was through them that their Prince had left them.

Then they agreed and went to my Lord Secretary, him whom before they refused to hear, him whom they had grieved with their doings, to know of him, for he was a seer and could tell where Emmanuel was, and how they might direct a petition to him. But the Lord Secretary would not admit them to a conference about this matter, nor would admit them to his royal place of abode, nor come out to them to show them his face, or intelligence. Is. lim. 10. Ep. 11. 20. 1 Th. v. 12. And now was it a day, gloomy and dark, a day of clouds and of thick darkness with Mansoul. Now they saw that they had been foolish, and began to perceive what the company and prattle of Mr. Carmal-security had done, and what desperate damage his awagering words had brought poor Mansoul into. But what further it was like to cost them, that they were ignorant of. Now Mr. Godly-fear began again to be in repute with the men of the town: yea, they were ready to look upon him as a prophet. Well, when the Sabbath-day was come, they went to hear their subordinate Preacher; but O how he did thunder and lighten this day! His text was that in the prophet Jonah, 'They that observe lying vanities forsake their own mercies.' p. 2. But a thundering there was then such power and authority in that sermon, and such a dejection seen in the countenances of the people that day, that the like hath seldom been heard or seen. The people, when sermon was done, were scarce able to go to their homes, or to betake themselves to their employs the week after, they were so sermon-smitten, and also so sermon-sick by being smitten, that they knew not what to do. Be. v. 12. He did not only show to Mansoul their sin, but

1 The sermon and its effects remind us strongly of Bunyan's Barren Pig-tree. 'Cut it down! Fetch out the axe! The Lord scares the sinner, and wants him upon a sick-bell. Death, fetch him away to the fire—fetch this barren professor to hell! Death and hell are at his bed-side, with grim locks, staring him in the face.' This passage in the 'Holy War' probably led the author, two years after, to preach and publish that smart sermon, so fed on thunder and light and, from the text put into the mouth of Bonnerges. 'I'm 2 How does a carnal careless walk obscure the eye of faith, whose evidences become weaker, until revived by the Word and Spirit of God'—(Mason). 'I could, for whole days together, feel my very body, as well as my mind, to shave and did tremble before them, under the sense of his own, still crying out of himself, as he preached to them. Unhappy man that I am! that I should do so wicked a thing! That I! a preacher! whom the Prince did set up to teach to Mansoul his law, should myself live senseless, and sottishly here, and be one of the first found in transgression. This transgression also fell within my precincts, I should have cried out against the wickedness, but I let Mansoul lie wallowing in it, until it had driven Emmanuel from its borders. With these things he also charged all the lords and gentry of Mansoul, to the almost distracting of them. Pa. 1200. About this time also there was a great sickness in the town of Mansoul, and most of the inhabitants were greatly afflicted; yea, the captains also, and men of war, were brought thereby to a languishing condition, and that for a long time together; so that in case of an invasion, nothing could to purpose now have been done, either by the townsmen or field officers. O how many pale faces, weak hands, feeble knees, and staggering men were now seen to walk the streets of Mansoul. Here were groans, there pants, and yonder lay those that were ready to faint. Re. 12. 13. Re. 12. 2. The garments too which Emmanuel had given them were but in a sorry case; some were rent, some were torn, and all in a nasty condition; some also did hang so loosely upon them, that the next bush they came at was ready to pluck them off. Is. 10. 21.

After some time spent in this sad and desolate condition, the subordinate Preacher called for a day of fasting, and to humble themselves for being so wicked against the great Shaddai, and his Son; and he desired that Captain Bonnerges would preach. So he consented to do it, and the day was come, and his text was this, 'Cut it down, why cumbereth it the ground?' and a very smart sermon he made upon the place. First, he showed what was the occasion of the words, to wit, because the fig-tree was barren; then he showed what was contained in the sentence, to wit, repentance, or utter desolation. He then showed also by whose authority this sentence was pronounced, and that was by Shaddai totter under a sense of the dreadful judgment of God.'—(Grace Mounding, No. 164.) A miserable state for a warrior surrounded by active enemies.—(Ep.)

3 Preaching captains were not uncommon in Bunyan's time, even Queen Elizabeth permitted her preachers. Sir J. Choke, the H. A. Sheriff of Oxford, preached in his sheriff's gown and gold chain, in St. Mary's pulpit, at Oxford University. If men of similar piety and talent would volunteer, it would not be a bad example for our gracious victories to follow.—(Ep.)

himself. And lastly, he showed the reasons of the point, and then concluded his sermon. But he was very pertinent in the application, insofar much that he made poor Mansoul tremble. For this sermon, as well as the former, wrought much upon the hearts of the men of Mansoul; yea it greatly helped to keep awake those that were roused by the preaching that went before. So that now throughout the whole town there was little or nothing to be heard or seen but sorrow and mourning, and woe.¹ Now after sermon they got together and consulted what was best to be done. But, said the subordinate Preacher, I will do nothing of mine own head, without advising with my neighbour Mr. Godly-fear.

For if he had afore, and understood more of the mind of our Prince than we, I do not know but he also may have it now, even now we are turning again to virtue. So they called and sent for Mr. Godly-fear, and he forthwith appeared; then they desired that he would further show his opinion about what they had best to do. Then said the old gentleman as followeth: It is my opinion that this town of Mansoul should, in this day of her distress, draw up and send an humble petition to their offended Prince Emmanuel, that he in his favour and grace will turn again unto you, and not keep anger for ever. When the townsmen had heard this speech, they did with one consent agree to his advice; so they did presently draw up their request, and the next was, But who shall carry it? at last they did all agree to send it by my Lord Mayor. So he accepted of the service, and addressed himself to his journey; and went and came to the court of Shaddai, whither Emmanuel the Prince of Mansoul was gone. But the gate was shut, and a strict watch kept thereat so that the petitioner was forced to stand without for a great while together. La. m. s. Then he desired that some would go in to the Prince and tell him who stood at the gate, and what his business was. So one went and told to Shaddai, and to Emmanuel his Son, that the Lord Mayor of the town of Mansoul stood without at the gate of the King's court, desiring to be admitted into the presence of the Prince, the King's Son. He also told what was the Lord Mayor's errand, both to the King and his Son Emmanuel. But the Prince would not come down, nor admit that the gate should be opened to him, but sent him an answer to this effect:—They have turned the back unto me, and not their face, but now in the time of ¹ Mansoul had withdrawn from a faithful ministry, and so under the preaching of his mother and unfulfilled men, but Godly-fear having roused them to burn Carnal-security's house, they flock to the an-skating alarms of a faithful Bonnerges.—(Ed.) VOL. III.

their trouble they say to me, Arise and save us, La. m. s. But can they not now go to Mr. Carnal-security, to whom they went when they turned from me, and make him their leader, their lord, and their protection, now in their trouble? Why now in their trouble do they visit me, since in their prosperity they went astray. de. u. 77. 28.

This answer made my Lord Mayor look black in the face; it troubled, it perplexed, it rent him sore. La. m. s. And now he began again to see what it was to be familiar with Diabolonians, such as Mr. Carnal-security was. When he saw that at court, as yet, there was little help to be expected, either for himself, or friends in Mansoul, he smote upon his breast and returned the Lord Mayor weeping, and all the way bewailing the lamentable state of Mansoul. Well, when he was come within sight of the town, the elders, and chief of the people of Mansoul went out at the gate to meet him, and to salute him, and to know how he sped at court. But he told them his tale in so doleful a manner, that they all cried out, and mourned, and wept. Wherefore they threw ashes and dust upon their heads, and put sackcloth upon their loins, and went crying out through the town of Mansoul; the which when the rest of the townsfolk saw, they all mourned and wept. This, therefore, was a day of rebuke and trouble, and of anguish to the town of Mansoul, and also of great distress. After some time, when they had somewhat refrained themselves, they came together to consult again what by them was yet to be done; and they asked advice, as they did before, of that Rev. Mr. Godly-fear, who told them, that there was no way better than to do as they had done, nor would he that they should be discouraged at all with what they had met with at court; yea, though several of their petitions should be answered with nought but silence or rebuke; for, said he, it is the way of the wise Shaddai to make men wait and to exercise patience, and it should be the way of them in want to be willing to stay his leisure.² Then they took courage, and sent again, and again, and again, and again; for there was not now one day, nor an hour that went over Mansoul's head, wherein a man might not have met upon the road one or other riding post, sounding the horn from Mansoul to the court of the King Shaddai; and all with letters petitionary in behalf of, and for the Prince's return to Mansoul. The

² See Ps. xiv. 3; xxvi. 11, xxvi. 7, Ibid. 5. La. m. 26. Ho. Lu. 6.—(Ed.)

road, I say, was now full of messengers, going and returning, and meeting one another; some from the court, and some from Mansoul, and this was the work of the miserable town of Mansoul all that long, that sharp, that cold, and tedious winter.¹

Now, if you have not forgot, you may yet remember that I told you before that after Emmanuel had taken Mansoul, yes, and after that he had new modelled the town, there remained in several lurking places of the corporation many of the old Diabolonians, that either came with the tyrant when he invaded and took the town, or that had there, by reason of unlawful mixtures, their birth and breeding, and bringing up. And their holes, dens, and lurking places were in, under, or about the wall of the town. Some of their names are, the Lord Fornication, the Lord Adultery, the Lord Murder, the Lord Anger, the Lord Lasciviousness, the Lord Decrit, the Lord Evil-eye, the Lord Blasphemy, and that horrible villain the old and dangerous Lord Covetousness.² These, as I told you, with many more, had yet their abode in the town of Mansoul, and that after that Emmanuel had driven their prince Diabolus out of the castle.³ Against these the good Prince did grant a commission to the Lord Will-be-will and others; yea, to the whole town of Mansoul, to seek, take, secure, and destroy any or all that they could lay hands of; for that they were Diabolonians by nature, enemies to the Prince, and those that sought to ruin the blessed town of Mansoul. But the town of Mansoul did not pursue this warrant, but neglected to look after, to apprehend, to secure, and to destroy these Diabolonians. Wherefore, what do these villains, but by degrees take courage to put forth their heads, and to show themselves to the inhabitants of the town; yea, and as I was told, some of the men of Mansoul grew too familiar with some of them, to the sorrow of the corporation, as you yet will hear more of in time and place.⁴ ¹ When roused from carnal security by godly fear, the soul feels, more than ever, the value and essential importance of prayer. No poor harassed sinner had experienced this dread state of uncertainty more than Banyan, a suspense like a sharp, cold, a tedious winter to a poor man desirous of common comforts. All these feelings are remarkably displayed in the Grace Abounding—I felt also such a chopping and heat at my sinner, by reason of the terror, that I was especially at some times, and my breast bone would have split asunder.—No. 16.—It was like the mark that the Lord God did set on Cain, even continual fear and trembling. Thus did I wind, and twine and shriek under the burden that was upon me.—No. 165.—(P.) ² The apostle calls covetousness 'idolatry.' Ep. v. 5. Col. in. 5. It is a worshipping of manhood, and justly deserves the wigwack with Banyan puts on it—'That horrible villain, the old and dangerous Lord Covetousness.' His report increases with his age, contrary to other views.—(E.)

[CHAPTER XIII.]

CONTENTS.—The Diabolonians take courage from the departure of Emmanuel, and plots are formed in hell for a counter-revolution in Mansoul—Covetousness, Lasciviousness, and Anger, by changing their names, are introduced into respectable families, where they corrupt their masters, and do incredible mischief—An army of twenty thousand doubters raised to surprise the town.

Well, when the Diabolonian lords that were left, perceived that Mansoul had, through sinning, offended Emmanuel their Prince, and the Diabolonians, that he had withdrawn himself and was gone, what do they but plot the ruin of the town of Mansoul. So upon a time they met together at the hold of one Mr. Mischief, who also was a Diabolonian, and there consulted how they might deliver up Mansoul into the Land of Diabolus again. Now some advised one way, and some another, every man according to his own liking. At last, my Lord Lasciviousness propounded whether it might not be best, in the first place, for some of those that were Diabolonians in Mansoul, to adventure to offer themselves for servants to some of the natives of the town. For, said he, if they so do, and Mansoul shall accept of them, they may for us, and for Diabolus our Lord, make the taking of the town of Mansoul more easy than otherwise it will be. But then stood up the Lord Murder, and said, This may not be done at this time, for Mansoul is now in a kind of rage; because by our friend Mr. Carnal-security she hath been once ensnared already, and made to offend against her Prince; and how shall she reconcile herself unto her Lord again, but by the heads of these men? Besides, we know that they have in commission to take and slay us wherever they shall find us; let us therefore be wise as foxes; when we are dead we can do them no hurt, but while we live we may. Thus when they had tossed the matter to and fro, they jointly agreed that a letter should forthwith be sent away to Diabolus in their name; by which the state of the town of Mansoul should be showed him, and how much it is under the frowns of their Prince; we may also, said some, let him know our intentions, and ask of him his advice in the case.⁵ ³ Converted persons have still the world, the flesh, and the days, to cope with—enemies without and within, lurking in the wake, in holes, and down in Mansoul. But the Lord has promised to give grace and glory. Ps. Ixxxiv. 11.—(Mason.)

⁴ Emmanuel gives a strict charge to destroy all Diabolonians, but this was neglected, and the consequence was that they became to Mansoul what the Cinnamites were to Israel. 'It is well not drive out the inhabitants of the land from before you, then it shall come to pass, that there which ye let remain or those shall be pricks in your eyes, and thorns in your sides, and shall vex you in the land wherein ye dwell.' Ne. Ixxxv. 55.—(Murder.) ⁵ These poor sinners are in league with hell against their

So a letter was presently framed, the contents of which was this—

'To our great Lord, the Prince Diabolus, dwelling below in the Infernal Cave.

'O great Father, and mighty Prince Diabolus. We, the true Diabolonians, yet remaining in the rebellious town of Mansoul, having received our thence to the beings from thee, and our nourishment at thy hands, cannot with content and quiet endure to behold, as we do this day, how thou art dispraised, disgraced, and reproached among the inhabitants of this town; nor is thy long absence at all delightful to us, because greatly to our detriment. 'The reason of this our writing unto our Lord is, for that we are not altogether without hope that this town may become thy habitation again; for it is greatly declined from its Prince Emmanuel, and he is apripen, and is departed from them; yea, and though they send, and send, and send, and send after him to return to them, yet can they not prevail, nor get good words from him.

'There has been also of late, and is yet remaining, a very great sickness and faintings among them, and that not only upon the poorer sort of the town, but upon the lords, captains, and chief gentry of the place; we only, who are of the Diabolonians by nature, remain well, lively, and strong, so that through their great transgression on the one hand, and their dangerous sickness on the other, we judge they lay open to thy hand and power. If therefore it shall stand with thy horrible cunning, and with the cunning of the rest of the Princes with thee, to come and make an attempt to take Mansoul again, send us word, and we shall to our utmost power be ready to deliver it into thy hand. Or, if what we have said, shall not by thy fatherhood be thought best, and most meet to be done, send us thy mind in a few words, and we are all ready to follow thy counsel, to the hazarding of our lives, and what else we have. 'Given under our hands the day and date above written, after a close consultation at the house of Mr. Mischief, who yet is alive, and hath his place in our desirable town of Mansoul.'

When Mr. Profane—for he was the carrier—

Mr. Profane was come with his letter to Hell-gate-hill, he knocked at the brazen gates for entrance. Then did Cerberus, the porter—for he is the keeper of that gate—open to Mr. Profane, to whom own so. May the Lord, by his Word and Spirit, break the horrid confederacy! (Mason.)

The gate-keeper of Pluto's palace in hell, with three heads, every hair being a snake; supposed by some to represent the word, flesh, and devil, or the consumer of mankind.—(Ed.)

he delivered his letter which he had brought from the Diabolonians in Mansoul. So he carried it in and presented it to Diabolus his lord, and said, Tidings, my lord, from Mansoul, from our trusty friends in Mansoul.

Then came together from all places of the den Beelzebub, Lucifer, Apollyon, with the rest of the rabblement there, to hear what news from Mansoul. So the letter was broken up and read, and Cerberus he stood by. When the letter was openly read, and the contents thereof spread into all the corners of the den, command was given that, without let or stop, Diabolonians' bell should be rung for joy.

So the bell was rung, and the princes rejoiced that Mansoul was like to come to ruin. Now the clapper of the bell went, The town of Mansoul is coming to dwell with us, make room for the town of Mansoul. This bell, therefore, they did ring, because they did hope that they should have Mansoul again.

Now, when they had performed this their horrible ceremony, they got together again to consult what answer to send to their friends in Mansoul, and some advised one thing, and some another: but, at length, because the business required haste, they left the whole business to the Prince Diabolus, judging him the most proper lord of the place. So he drew up a letter as he thought fit, in answer to what Mr. Profane had brought, and sent it to the Diabolonians that did dwell in Mansoul, by the same hand that had brought theirs to him, and this was the contents thereof— 'To our offspring, the high and mighty Diabolonians, that yet dwell in the town of Mansoul, Diabolus, the great Prince of Mansoul, wished a prosperous issue and conclusion of those many brave enterprises, conspiracies, and designs, that you of your love and respect to our honour, have in your hearts to attempt to do against Mansoul.

'Beloved children and disciples, my Lord For-nication, Adultery, and the rest, we have here, in our desolate den, received, to our highest joy and content, your welcome letter, by the hand of our trusty Mr. Profane, and to show how acceptable your tidings were, we rung out our bell for gladness, for we rejoiced as much as we could, when we perceived that yet we had friends in Mansoul, and such as sought our honour and revenge in the ruin of the town of Mansoul. We also rejoice to hear that they are in a degenerated condition, and that they have offended their Prince, and that he As there is joy in heaven over our sinner that repeated, so likewise is there joy in hell, over one succeeding saint. But almighty grace must prevail. O for watchfulness unto prayer!—(Mason.)

is gone. Their sickness also pleaseth us, as doth also your health, might, and strength. Glad also would we be, right horribly beloved, could we get this town into our clutches again. Nor will we be sparing of spending our wit, our cunning, our craft, and hellish inventions, to bring to a wished conclusion this your brave beginning, in order thereto.

And take this for your comfort, our birth and our offspring, that shall we again surprise it and take it, we will attempt to put all your foes to the sword, and will make you the great lords and captains of the place. Nor need you fear, if ever we get it again, that we after that shall be cast out any more, for we will come with more strength, and so lay far more fast held than at the first we did. Besides, it is the law of that Prince that now they own, that if we got them a second time they shall be ours for ever. Mar. 11. 43-45 Do you therefore, our trusty Diabolonians, yet more pry into, and endeavour to spy out, the weakness of the town of Mansoul. We also would that you yourselves do attempt to weaken them more and more. Send us word also by what means you think we had best to attempt the regaining thereof; to wit, whether by persuasion to a vain and loose life, or whether by tempting them to doubt and despair, or whether by blowing up of the town by the gunpowder of pride and self-conceit. Do ye also, O ye brave Diabolonians and true sons of the pit, be ye always in a readiness to make a most hideous assault within, when we shall be ready to storm it without. Now speed you in your project, and we in our desires, the utmost power of our gates, which is the wish of your great Diabolus, Mansoul's enemy, and him that trembles when he thinks of judgment to come! All the blessings of the pit be upon you, and so we close up our letter. Given at the pit's mouth, by the joint consent of all the princes of darkness, to be sent to the force and power that we have yet remaining in Mansoul, by the hand of Mr. Profane. —By me, Diabolus.

This letter, as was said, was sent to Mansoul, to the Diabolonians that yet remained there, and that yet inhabited the wall, from the dark dungeon of Diabolus, by the hand of Mr. Profane, by whom they also in Mansoul sent theirs to the pit. Now when this Mr. Profane had made his return, and was

1 Satan renews his temptations with double force; while lasciviousness, murder, and mischief unite with him in cunning devices to ruin the soul. Three means of destruction are proposed in hell. —1. A vicious life, 2. Despair of mercy, 3. Prevailing pride. Either of these would prove our ruin, did not grace prevent.—(Burdet.) Beware, O believer, lest a moment's want of watchfulness produce the bitter fruits of repentance.—(Ed.) come to Mansoul again, he went and came as he was wont to the house of Mr. Mischief, for there was the conclave, and the place where the contrivers were met. Now when they saw that their messenger was returned safe and sound, they were greatly gladed thereat. Then he presented them with his letter which he had brought from Diabolus for them, the which, when they had read and considered, did much augment their gladness. They asked him after the welfare of their friends, as how their Lord Diabolus, Lucifer, and Beelzebub did, with the rest of those of the den. To which this Profane made answer, Well, well, my lords, they are well, even as well as can be in their place. They also, said he, did ring for joy at the reading of your letter, as you will perceive by this when you read it. Now, as was said, when they had read their letter, and perceived that it encouraged them in their work, they fell to their way of contriving again, to wit, how they might complete their Diabolonian design upon Mansoul. And the first thing that they agreed upon was, to keep all things from Mansoul as close as they could. Let it not be known, let not Mansoul be acquainted with what we design against it. The next thing was, how, or by what means, they should try to bring to pass the ruin and overthrow of Mansoul, and one said after this manner, and another said after that. Then stood up Mr. Deceit, and said, My right Diabolonian friends, our lords, and the high ones of the deep dungeon, do propound unto us these three ways— 1. Whether we had best to seek its ruin by making of Mansoul loose and vain? 2. Or whether by driving them to doubt and despair? 3. Or whether by endeavouring to blow them up by the gunpowder of self-conceit?

Now, I think, if we shall tempt them to pride, that may do something; and if we tempt them to wantonness, that may help. But, in my mind, if we could drive them into desperation, that would knock the nail on the head, for then we should have them, in the first place, question the truth of the love of the heart of their Prince towards them, and that will disgust him much. This, if it works well, will make them leave off quickly their way of sending petitions to him; then farewell earnest solicitations for help and supply, for then this conclusion lies naturally before them. As good do nothing as do to no purpose. So to Mr. Deceit they unanimously did consent. Then the next question was, But how shall we

2 Ignorance and carnal security, or illrecess, are the strongholds of sin in the soul. The more we study to become acquainted with Divine truth, and labour to show forth the glory of God, the safer and happier we must become.—(Ed.)

do bring this our project to pass? And it was

Take heed, Man. answered by the same gentleman that this might be the best way to do it:

Even let, quoth he, so many of our friends as are willing to venture themselves for the promoting of their prince's cause, disguise themselves with apparel, change their names, and go into the market like far-countrymen, and proffer to let themselves for servants to the famous town of Mansoul, and let them pretend to do for their masters as beneficially as may be, for by so doing they may, if

Mansoul shall hire them, in little time so corrupt and defile the corporation, that her now Prince shall be not only further offended with them, but in conclusion shall spew them out of his mouth.

And when this is done, our prince Diabolus shall

Take heed, Man. prey upon them with ease; yea, of themselves they shall fall into the mouth of the eater. Na. m. 12.

This project was no sooner propounded but was as highly accepted, and forward were all Diabolonians now to engage in so delicate an enterprise;

but it was not thought fit that all should do thus, wherefore they pitched upon two or three, namely, the Lord Covetousness, the Lord Lasciviousness, and the Lord Anger. The Lord Covetousness called himself by the name of Prudent-thrifty, the

Take heed, Man. Lord Lasciviousness called himself by the name of Harmless-mirth, and the

Lord Anger called himself by the name of Goodzeal.¹

So upon a market-day they came into the market-place—three lusty fellows they wore to look on— and they were clothed in sheeps'-russet,² which was also now in a manner as white as were the white

Take heed, Man. robes of the men of Mansoul. Now the men could speak the language of

Mansoul well. So, when they were come into the market-place, and had offered to let themselves to the townsmen, they were presently taken up, for they asked but little wages, and promised to do their masters great service.

Mr. Mind hired Prudent-thrifty, and Mr. Godlyfear hired Goodzeal. True, this fellow Harmlessmirth did hang a little in hand, and could not so soon get him a master as the other did, because the town of Mansoul was now in Lent;³ but after a while, because Lent was almost out, the Lord

Will-be-will hired Harmless-mirth to be both his

Take heed, Man. waiting-man and his lacquy, and thus they got them masters.

¹ Well may our pious author reiterate the caution—'Take heed, Mansoul.' 'Vices in the disguise of virtues are expecially dangerous.' So when the pilgrims were led astray, and catangled in a net, by a back man in white raiment, they said, 'We did not imagine that this fine-spoken man had been the flatterer.' P. 151.—(Ed.)

² Coarse, home-spun, brown woollen cloth.—(Ed.)

³ Bouyan does not pretend to fast forty days, and he

These villains now being got thus far into the houses of the men of Mansoul, quickly began to do great mischief therein; for being filthy, archi, and sly, they quickly corrupted the families where they were; yea, they tainted their masters much, especially this Prudent-thrifty, and him they call

Harmless-mirth. True, he that went under the vizur of Goodzeal, was not so well liked of his master, for he quickly found that he was but a counterfeit rascal;⁴ the which when the fellow perceived, with speed he made his escape from the house, or I doubt not but his master had hanged him.

Well, when these vagabonds had thus far carried on their design, and had corrupted the town as much as they could, in the next place they considered with themselves at what time their prince

Diabolus without, and themselves within the town, should make an attempt to seize upon Mansoul;

and they all agreed upon this, that a market-day would be best for that work. For why? A way of world?

Then will the townsfolk be busy in their ways. And always take this for a rule.

When people are most busy in the world, they least fear a surprise.⁵ We also then, said they, shall be able with less suspicion to gather ourselves together for the work of our friends and lords;

yea, and in such a day, if we shall attempt our work, and miss it, we may, when they Take heed, Man.

shall give us the rout, the better hide ourselves in the crowd, and escape.

These things being thus far agreed upon by them, they wrote another letter to Diabolus, and sent it by the hand of Mr. Profane, the contents of which were this—

The Lords of Looseness send to the great and high Diabolus, from our dens, caves. Lock to it, Manholes, and strong-holds, in and about the wall of the town of Mansoul, greeting:

⁴Our great lord, and the nourisher of our lives,

Diabolus; how glad we were when we heard of your fatherhood's readiness to comply with us, and help forward our design in our attempts to ruin

Mansoul! None can tell but those who, as we do, set themselves against all appearance of good, when and wheresoever we find it. Re. vii. 21. Ga. v. 17.

shows the evils of Lent, because, after so long a fast, there was a need of mirth, and this Lord Lasciviousness, thus

Harmless-mirth, is hired, and soon produces great mischief.

Who can tell the mistress that have followed Easter festivities, after Lenten hypocrites?—(Ed.)

⁵ A reckless, profligate fellow, under the disguise of great zeal.—(Ed.)

⁶ By a market-day is meant any time when the affairs of this world most occupy the mind: a honeymoon, birthdays, or other periods of rejoicing—as I mention—or Twelfth-day and on times when deeply occupied with the cares of life.

These are the times for Satan's attacks. Take heed then,

Mansoul, while different in business, be fervent in spirit, watching unto prayer.—(Ed.)

• Touching the encouragement that your greatness is pleased to give us to continue to devise, contrive, and study the utter desolation of Mansoul, that we are not solicitous about, for we know right well that it cannot but be pleasing and profitable to us to see our enemies, and them that seek our lives, to die at our feet or fly before us. We therefore are still contriving, and that to the best of our cunning, to make this work most facile and easy to your lordships, and to us. • First, we considered of that most hellishly-Look to it, Man- cunning, compacted, threefold project, that by you was propounded to us in your last; and have concluded, that though to blow them up with the gunpowder of pride would do well, and to do it by tempting them to be loose and vain will help on; yet to contrive to bring them into the gulf of desperation, we think, will do best of all. Now we, who are at your beck, have thought of two ways to do this:—First, we, for our parts, will make them as vile as we can; and then you with us, at a time appointed, shall be ready to fall upon them with the utmost force. And, of all the nations that are at your whistle, we think that an army of Doubters may be the most likely to attack and overcome the town of Take Feed Man- Mansoul. Thus shall we overcome these enemies; else the pit shall open her mouth upon them, and desperation shall thrust them down into it. We have also, to effect this so much by us desired design, sent already three of our trusty Diabolonians among them; they are disguised in garb, they have changed their names, and are now accepted of them; to wit, Covetousness, Lasciviousness, and Anger. The name of Covetousness is changed to Prudent-thrifty; and him Mr. Mind has hired, and is almost become as bad as our friend. Lasciviousness has changed his name to Harmless-mirth, and he is got to be the Lord Will-be-will's lacquy, but he has made his master very wanton. Anger changed his name into Goolzeal, and was entertained by Mr. Godly-fear, but the peevish old gentleman took pepper in the nose, and turned our companion out of his house.² Nay, he has informed us since that he ran away from him, or else his old master had hanged him up for his labour. • Now these have much helped forward our work Look to it, Man- and design upon Mansoul; for not- withstanding the spite and quarrelsome temper of the old gentleman last mentioned,

¹ This scheme is conferred with consternate skill. First let the Christian be drawn into a light, van, worldly wall— 'Make him as vile as you can,' and then assault him with doubts and tears about his salvation.—(Burger) 'Look to it, take beed, Mansoul!'—(ED.)

² 'Look pepper in the nose.' Godly-fear was easily excited, and quickly saw the disguise which Anger had put on, and the other two ply their business well, and are like to ripen the work apace

• Our next project is, that it be concluded that you come upon the town upon a market-day, and that when they are upon the heat of Take Feed Man- their business; for then to be sure they will be most secure, and least think that an assault will be made upon them. They will also at such a time be less able to defend themselves, and to offend you in the prosecution of our design. And we, your trusty, and we are sure your beloved ones, shall, when you shall make your furious assault without, be ready to second the business within. So shall we, in all likelihood, be able to put Mansoul to utter confusion, and to swallow them up before they can come to themselves. If your serpentine heads, most subtle dragons, and our highly esteemed lords can find out a better way than this, let us quickly know your minds. • To the Monsters of the Infernal Cave, from the house of Mr. Mischief in Mansoul, by the hand of Mr. Profane.

Now all the while that the raging runagates, and hellish Diabolonians were thus contriving the ruin of the town of Mansoul, they, to wit, the poor town itself, was in a sad and woeful case; partly because they had so grievously offended Shaddai and his Son, and partly because that the enemies thereby got strength within them afresh, and also because though they had by many petitions made suit to the Prince Emmanuel, and to his Father Shaddai, by him, for their pardon and favour, yet, hitherto, obtained they not one smile; but contrariwise, through the craft and subtlety of the domestic Diabolonians, their cloud was made to grow blacker and blacker, and their Emmanuel to stand at further distance. The sickness also did still greatly rage in Mansoul, both among the captains and the inhabitants of the town; their enemies and their enemies only were now lively and strong, and like to become the head, whilst Mansoul was made the tail.³

By this time, the letter last mentioned, that was written by the Diabolonians that yet lurked in the town of Mansoul, was conveyed to Diabolus in the black den, by the hand of Mr. Profane, and gave false. He carried the letter by Hell, at Hell-gate-hill, gate-hill, as before, and conveyed it by Cerberus to his lord.

turned him out neck and crop. This proverb was often used in Un. yan's time; thus—

³ For every man takes pepper; the nose for the wagging of a straw, and sawness. With every waver, we wad that blowers.

(Eberter's Lenten Stuff, 157)—(ED.)

⁴ Backsiding from God naturally produces clouds that grow blacker and blacker as corruptions grow stronger and stronger; grace in the soul becomes sick and weakly.—(Burger.)

But when Cerberus and Mr. Profane did meet, they were presently as great as beggars, and thus they fell into discourse about Mansoul, and about the project against her.

CERB. Ah! old friend, quoth Cerberus, art thou come to Hellgate-hill again! By St. Mary, I am glad to see thee.

PROF. Yes, my lord, I am come again about the concerns of the town of Mansoul.

CERB. Prathee, tell me what condition is that town of Mansoul is at present?

PROF. In a brave condition, my lord, for us, and for my lords, the lords of this place I trow, for they are greatly decayed as to godliness, and that is as well as our heart can wish; their Lord is greatly out with them, and that doth also please us well. We have already also a foot in their dish, for our Diabolonians friends are laid in their bosoms, and what do we lack but to be masters of the place.

Besides, our trusty friends in Mansoul are daily plotting to betray it to the lords of this town; also the sickness rages bitterly among them, and that which makes up all, we hope at last to prevail.

CERB. Then said the Dog of Hellgate. No time like this to assault them; I wish that the enterprise be followed close, and that the success desired may be soon effected. Yes, I wish it for the poor Diabolonians' sakes, that live in the continual fear of their lives in that traitorous town of Mansoul.

PROF. The contrivance is almost finished, the lords in Mansoul that are Diabolonians are at it day and night, and the other are like silly doves, they want heart to be concerned with their state, and to consider that ruin is at hand. Besides, you may, yea, must think, when you put all things together, that there are many reasons that prevail with Diabolus to make what haste he can.

CERB. Thou hast said as it is, I am glad things are at this pass. Go in, my brave Profane, to my lords, they will give thee for thy welcome as good a coranto as the whole of this kingdom will afford. I have sent thy letter in already.

Then Mr. Profane went into the den, and his Lord Diabolus met him, and saluted him with Welcome, my trusty servant. I have been made glad with thy letter. The rest of the lords of the pit gave him also their salutations. Then Profane, after obtrience made to them

¹ This is one of those shrewd hits which abound in Bunyas, w. 1k. The devil swears by the mother of God. "Sour Mary" - a singular piece of contrasting his Satanic majesty and Popers, by his name a common popish o.11.-(E.D.)

² In the same proportion as this is encouraged, the ordinances, ways, and what God will be neglected.-(Mason)

³ To get a foot in, or footing, is to gain admittance. "A foot in the r dish" is the further familiarity of eating and drinking together.-(E.D.)

all, said, Let Mansoul be given to my Lord Diabolus, and let him be her king forever. And with that the hollow belly and yawning gorge of hell gave so loud and hideous a groan-for that is the music of that place-that it made the mountains about it totter, as if they would fall in pieces.

Now after they had read and considered the letter, they consulted what answer to return, and the first that did speak to it was Lucifer.

LUCIF. Then said he, The first project of the Diabolonians in Mansoul is like to be the lucky, and to take; to wit, that they will be all the ways and means they can, make Mansoul yet more vile and filthy; no way to destroy a soul like this; this is predation cat. Our old friend Balaam went this way and prospered many years ago; let this therefore stand with us for a maxim, and be to Diabolonians for a general rule in all ages, for nothing can make this to fail but grace, in which I would hope that this town has no share. No one is, he is. But whether to fall upon them on a market-day, because of their own ber in business, that I would should be under debate. And there is more reason why this head should be debated, than why some other should; because upon this will turn the whole of what we shall attempt. If we time not our business well, our whole project may fail. Our friends the Diabolonians say that a market-day is best, for then will Mansoul be most busy, and have fewest thoughts of a surprise. But what if also they should double their guards on these days-and methinks nature and reason should teach them to do it-and what if they should keep such a watch on those days as the necessity of their present case doth require? Yes, what if their men should be always in arms on those days? Then you may, my lords, be disappointed in your attempts, and may bring our friends in the town to utter danger of unavoidable ruin.

BEEL. Then said the great Beelzebub, There is something in what my lord hath said, but his conjecture may or may not fall out. Nor hath my lord laid it down as that which must not be receded from, for I know that he said it only to provoke to a warm debate thereabout. Therefore we must understand, if we can, whether the town

¹ The immoral contagion had spread over thought as second. Let this cause many are sickly among you. (E.D.)

² A swirl and linger, but doubtfully a few. The project of the misery and destruction of Mansoul set all the devils a-dancing.

Where could I, upon have picked up the very impressive 62 rare word?—(E.D.)

Where could I, upon have picked up the very impressive 62 rare word?—(E.D.)

of Mansoul have such sense and knowledge of her

A lesson for decayed state, and of the design that we have on foot against her, as doth provoke her to set watch and ward at her gates, and to double them on market-days. But if, after inquiry made, it shall be found that they are asleep, then any day will do, but a market-day is best;

and this is my judgment in this case.

DIAB. Then quoth Diabolus, How should we know this? And it was answered, Inquire about it at the mouth of Mr. Profane. So Profane was called in and asked the question, and he made his answer as follows—

PROF. My lords, so far as I can gather, this is at present the condition of the town of Mansoul. They are decayed in their faith and love; Emmanuel their

Prince has given them the back;¹ they send often by petition to fetch him again, but he maketh not haste to answer their request, nor is there much reformation among them.

DIAB. I am glad that they are backward to a reformation, but yet I am afraid of their petitioning. However, their looseness of life is a sign that there is not much heart in what they do, and without the heart things are little worth. But go on, my masters, I will divert you, my lords, no longer.

BEEL. If the case be so with Mansoul, as Mr.

Profane has described it to be, it will be no great matter what day we assault it; not their prayers nor their power will do them much service.

APOLL. When Beelzebub had ended his oration, then Apollyon did begin. My opinion, said he, concerning this matter is, that we go on fair and softly, not doing things in a hurry. Let our friends in Mansoul go on still to pollute and defile it, by seeking to draw it yet more into sin, for there is nothing like sin to devour Mansoul.² If this be done, and it takes effect, Mansoul of itself will leave off to watch, to petition, or anything else that should tend to her security and safety; for she will forget her Emmanuel, she will not desire his company, and can she be gotten thus to live, her Prince will not come to her in haste. Our trusty friend,

Mr. Carnal-security, with one of his tricks, did drive him out of the town, and why may not my

Lord Covetousness, and my Lord Lasciviousness, by what they may do, keep him out of the town?

And this I will tell you, not because you know it not, that two or three Diabolonians, if entertained and countenanced by the town of Mansoul, will do more to the keeping of Emmanuel from them, and towards making of the town of Mansoul your own, than can an army of a legion that should be sent out from us to withstand him.

Let, therefore, this first project that our friends in

Mansoul have set on foot, be strongly and diligently carried on with all cunning and craft imaginable; and let them send continually, under one guise or another, more and other of their men to play with the people of Mansoul; and then, perhaps, we shall not need to be at the charge of making a war upon them;

or if that must of necessity be done, yet the more sinful they are, the more unable, to be sure, they will be to resist us, and then the more easily we shall overcome them. And besides, suppose—and that is the worst that can be supposed—that Emmanuel should come to them again, why may not the same means, or the like, drive him from them once more? Yes, why may he not by their lapse into that sin again, be driven from them for ever, for the sake of which he was at the first driven from them for a season? And if this should happen, then away go with him his rams, his slings, his captains, his soldiers, and he leaveth Mansoul naked and bare. Yes, will not this town, when she sees herself utterly forsaken of her Prince, of her own accord open her gates again unto you, and make of you as in the days of old? But this must be done by time; a few days will not effect so great a work as this.³

So soon as Apollyon had made an end of speaking, Diabolus began to blow out his own malice, and to plead his own cause; and he said, My lords and powers of the cave, my true and trusty friends,

I have with much impatience, as becomes me, given ear to your long and tedious orations. But my furious gorge and empty paunch so lusteth after a repossession of my famous town of Mansoul, that, whatever comes out, I can wait no longer to see the events of lingering projects. I must, and that without further delay, seek by all means I can to fill my insatiable gulf with the soul and body of the town of Mansoul.⁴ Therefore,

I lend me your heads, your hearts, and your help, now I am going to recover my town of

Mansoul.

When the lords and princes of the pit saw the flaming desire that was in Diabolus to devour the miserable town of Mansoul, they left off to raise any more objections, but consented to lend him

¹ To back a friend, is to support him. To turn the back upon him, or give him the back, is to desert him.—(E.)¹

² Although Satan is the father of his, he certainly speaks truth here. She will do more hurt to the soul than a legion of devils.—(Burdur.)

³ Here again we have Satan telling truth.—(E.) Aposon is generally a gradual affair; a sure poison, but slow—

(Burdur.)

⁴ Satan's malice is like a throat and stomach—'insatiable.'

He seeks to fill it with the souls and bodies of men; but his torment is, that it is a gulf bottomless and for ever insatiable.

—(E.)

what strength they could; though, had Apollyon's advice been taken, they had far more fearfully distressed the town of Mansoul. But, I say, they were willing to lend him what strength they could, not knowing what need they might have of him, when they should engage for themselves, as he. Wherefore, they fell to advising about the next thing propounded, to wit, what soldiers they were, and also how many, with whom Diabolus should go against the town of Mansoul to take it; and after some debate, it was concluded, according as in the letter the Diabolonians had suggested, that none was more fit for that expedition than an army of terrible Doubters. They, therefore, concluded to send against Mansoul an army of sturdy Doubters. The number thought fit to be employed in that service was between twenty and thirty thousand. So then, the result of that great council of those high and mighty lords was, that Diabolus should even now, out of hand, beat up his drum for men in the land of Doubting, which land lieth upon the confines of the place called Hell-gate-hill, for men that might be employed by him against the miserable town, Mansoul. It was also concluded that these lords themselves should help him in the war, and that they would, to that end, head and manage his men. So they drew up a letter and sent back to the Diabolonians that lurked in Mansoul, and that waited for the back-coming of Mr. Profane, to signify to them into what method and forwardness they at present had put their design. The contents whereof now followethFrom the dark and horrible Dungeon of Hell, Diabolus, with all the Society of the Princes, of Darkness, sends to our trusty ones, in and about the walls of the town of Mansoul, now impatiently waiting for enormous devilish answer, to their venomous and most poisonous design against the town of Mansoul.

Our natives ones, in whom from day to day we boast, and in whose actions all the year long we do greatly delight ourselves, we received your welcome, because highly-esteemed, letter, at the hand of our trusty and greatly beloved, the old gentleman, Mr. Profane; and do give you to understand that when we had broken it up, and had read the contents thereof, to your amazing memory be it spoken, our yawning hollow-bellied place, where we are, made so hideous and yelling a 1 Doubts are dangerous and potent, as well as unmerited enemies; they are dishonorable to God's free, sovereign, unasked, liberated, and everlasting love and mercy in Christ Jesus.—(Mansoul.)

noise for joy, that the mountains that stand round about Hell-gate-hill had like to have been shaken to pieces at the sound thereof.

We could also do no less than admire your faithfulness to us, with the greatness of that subtlety that now hath showed itself to be in your heads to serve us against the town of Mansoul. For you have invented for us so excellent a method for our proceeding against that rebellious people; a more effectual cannot be thought of by all the wits of hell. The proposals, therefore, which now at last you have sent us, since we saw them, we have done little else but highly approved and admired them. Nay, we shall, to encourage you in the profundity of your craft, let you know, that, at a full assembly and conclave of our princes, and principalities of this place, your project was discoursed, and tossed from one side of our cave to the other, by their mightinesses; but a better, and as was by themselves judged, a more fit and proper way by all their wits could not be invented, to surprise, take, and make our own, the rebellious town of Mansoul. Wherefore, in fine, all that was said that varied from what you had in your letter propounded, fell of itself to the ground, and yours only was stuck to by Diabolus the prince; yea, his gaping gorge and vaunting paunch was on fire to put your invention into execution.

We, therefore, give you to understand that our stout, furious, and unmerciful Diabolus, is raising for your relief, and the ruin of the rebellious town of Mansoul, more than twenty thousand Doubters to come against that people. They are all stout and sturdy men, and men that of old have been accustomed to war, and that can therefore well endure the drum. I say, he is doing of this work of his with all the possible speed he can; for his heart and spirit is engaged in it. We desire, therefore, that as you have hitherto stuck to us, and given us both advice and encouragement thus far; that you still will prosecute our design, nor shall you lose, but be gainers thereby; yea, we intend to make you the lords of Mansoul. One thing may not by any means be omitted, that is, those with us do desire that every one of you that are in Mansoul would still use all your power, cunning, and skill, with delusive persuasions, yet to draw the town of Mansoul into more sin and wickedness, even that sin may be finished and bring forth death.

For thus it is concluded with us, that the more vile, sinful, and debauched the town of Mansoul is, the more backward will be their Emmanuel to come to their help, either by presence, or other relief; yea, the more sinful, the more weak, and so the more unable will they be to make resistance when we shall make our assault upon them to swallow them up. Yes, that may cause that their mighty Shaddai himself may cast them out of his protection; yea, and send for his captains and soldiers home, with his slings and rams, and leave them naked and bare, and then the town of Mansoul will of itself open to us, and fall as the fig into the mouth of the cater. No. 12. Yes, to be sure that we then with a great deal of ease shall come upon her and overcome her. As to the time of our coming upon Mansoul, we as yet have not fully resolved upon that, though at present some of us think as you, that a market-day, or a market-day at night, will certainly be the best. However do you be ready, and when you shall hear our roaring drum without, do you be as busy to make the most horrible confusion within. 1 Ps. v. 8. So shall Mansoul certainly be distressed before and behind, and shall not know which way to betake herself for help. My Lord Lucifer, my Lord Beelzebub, my Lord Apollyon, my Lord Legion, with the rest salute you, as does also my Lord Diabolus, and we wish both you, with all that you do or shall possess, the very self-same fruit and success for their doing, as we ourselves at present enjoy for ours. From our dreadful confines in the most fearful Pit, we salute you, and so do those many legions here with us, wishing you may be as hellishly prosperous as we desire to be ourselves. By the Letter-carrier, Mr. Profane.

Then Mr. Profane addressed himself for his return to Mansoul, with his errand from the horrible pit to the Diabolonians that dwelt in that town. So he came up the stairs from the deep to the mouth of the cave where Cerberus was. Now when Cerberus saw him, he asked how matters did go below, about, and against the town of Mansoul.

PROF. Things go as well as we can expect. The letter that I carried thither was highly approved, and well liked by all my lords, and I am returning to tell our Diabolonians so. I have an answer to it here in my bosom, that I am sure will make our masters that sent me glad; for the contents thereof is to encourage them to pursue their design to the utmost, and to be ready also to fall on within, when they shall see my Lord Diabolus beleaguering of the town of Mansoul. 1 At the season when the affairs of the world fill the heart, beware of being 'overcharged with suffering, and drunkenness, and cases of this world.' Be sober, be vigilant. O. y soul, attend to the author's repeated morning, 'Take here, Mansoul!'—(Ed.)

2 Some may imagine this to be an incredible number of doubts, but when the nine divisions of this army are presently enumerated, it will be readily acknowledged that our doubts are innumerable.—(Ed.)

CERB. But does he intend to go against them himself.

PROF. Does he? Ay, and he will take along with him more than twenty thousand, all sturdy Doubters, and men of war, picked men, from the land of Doubting, to serve him in the expedition.

CERB. Then was Cerberus glad, and said, And is there such brave preparations a-making to go against the miserable town of Mansoul; and would I might be put at the head of a thousand of them, that I might also show my valour against the famous town of Mansoul.

PROF. Your wish may come to pass; you look like one that has mettle enough, and my lord will have with him those that are valiant and stout. But my business requires haste.

CERB. Ay, so it does. Speed thee to the town of Mansoul with all the deepest mischiefs that this place can afford thee. And when thou shalt come to the house of Mr. Mischief, the place where the Diabolonians meet to plot, tell them that Cerberus doth wish them his service, and that if he may, he will with the army come up against the famous town of Mansoul.

PROF. That I will. And I know that my lords that are there will be glad to hear it, and to see you also.

So after a few more such kind of compliments, Mr. Profane took his leave of his friend Cerberus, and Cerberus again, with a thousand of their pit-wishes, bid him haste with all speed to his masters. The which when he had heard, he made obeisance, and began to gather up his heels to run.

Thus therefore he returned, and went and came to Mansoul, and going as afore to the house of Mr. Mischief, there he found the Diabolonians assembled, and waiting for his return. Now when he was come, and had presented himself, he also delivered to them his letter, and adjoined this compliment to them therewith: My Lords from the confines of the pit, the high and mighty principalities and powers of the den salute you here, the true Diabolonians of the town of Mansoul. Wishing you always the most proper of their benedictions, for the great service, high attempts, and brave achievements that you have put yourselves upon, for the restoring, to our prince Diabolus, the famous town of Mansoul. This was therefore the present state of the miser-

3 According to Milton, Cerberus was the parent of Melancholy, a fit leader of Doubters.

4 Hence, limited Melancholy.

Of Cerberus and heckest Midnight born,

In Stygian caves forlorn,

5 'Mongol: horrid shapes, and shrinks, and sights unholy.' L'allego.—(Ed.)

6 To 'gather up the heels,' or 'take to the heels,' implies great haste.—(Ed.)

able town of Mansoul; she had offended her Prince, and he was gone; she had encouraged the powers of hell, by her foolishness, to come against her, to seek her utter destruction.

True, the town of Mansoul was somewhat made sensible of her sin, but the Diabolonians were gotten into her bowels; she cried, but Emmanuel was gone, and her cries did not fetch him as yet again. Besides she knew not now whether ever or never he would return and come to his Mansoul again, nor did they know the power and industry of the enemy, nor how forward they were to put in execution that plot of hell that they had devised against her. They did indeed still send petition after petition to the Prince, but he answered all with silence. They did neglect reformation, and that was as Diabolus would have it, for he knew, if they regarded iniquity in their heart, their King would not hear their prayer; they therefore did still grow weaker and weaker, and were as a rolling thing before the whirlwind. They cried to their King for help, and laid Diabolonians in their bosoms, what therefore should a King do to them? Yes, there seemed now to be a mixture in Mansoul, the Diabolonians and the Mansoulians would walk the streets together. Yes, they began to seek their peace, for they thought that since the sickness had been so mortal in Mansoul, it was in vain to go to handy-gripes with them. Besides, the weakness of Mansoul was the strength of their enemies; and the sins of Mansoul the advantage of the Diabolonians. The foes of Mansoul did also now begin to promise themselves the town for a possession; there was no great difference now betwixt Mansoulians and Diabolonians, both seemed to be masters of Mansoul. Yes, the Diabolonians increased, and grew, but the town of Mansoul diminished greatly. There was more than eleven thousand of men, women, and children that died by the sickness in Mansoul.