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I ■ Entered according to Act of the Parliament of ( anada, in the year one thousand eight hundred and seventy-eight, by James Mann, Richmond Hill, Ont., in the Office of the Minister of Agri- culture. i, f 1^ f i CONTENTS. To the Reader y Introduction, by the Rev. John Potts vii CHAPTER I. Introductory— The King, the Governor and the Foreign Prince 9 CHAPTER II. His Majesty's charge to his Son— The Son enters the kingdom — Makes a tour throu^ h it— His battle with the Foreign Prince 22 CHAPTER III. The King after his battle with the Prince — The meeting of the King with his body guard — They confess their unfaithfulness — Confidence restor- ed — The King chooses his ministers — Their duties— The King's journey — The seal arrives at the palace 4X IV CONTENTS. CHAPTER IV. The King's proclamation-^The Foreign Prince s opposition , jq CHAPTER V. The Foreign Prince assembles his court and devises a plan— Tlie people despise the King's ministers — A republic formed, 7^ CHAPTER VJ. The King's government restored— The Foreign Prince's opposition—His pleasure entertain- ments Of CHAPTER VII. The King's roturn to the palace— The people go forth to meet him -A time of jubilee— The Foi^eign Prince and h is (japti ves j 23 I 1; I TO THE READER. ! i In presenting this unpretending volume to the public, a few explanatory words are neces- sary. The style of the work being allegorical it was needful to adopt certain fictitious names, which will in all instances be readily under- stood, even by those whose knowledge of Scrij)- ture history is most limited. The following are the principal : By His Majesty is meant the Supreme Being, the King's Son " the Saviour, the Seal " the Holy Ghost, the Governor " Adam, the Foreign Prince " Satan, the Body guard. " the Twelve Apostles. There are others ; but they will be found equally self-interpretative. VI TO THE READER. ; f Though the following pages have been pre- pared for the young, perhaps the old may find entertainment and some useful and instructive hints. If young or old are hereby induced to take an interest in the Book of all books, and to enlist under the banner of the King, " to whom all the prophets witness that through His name whosoever believeth in Him shall receive remission of sins, *' it will not be pre- pared in vain. James Mann. Richmond Hill, June 1878. INTRODUCTION. The present is emphatically a book-making and a book-reading age. The demand for literature on every subject in every field of thought is imperative, and the supply is forthcoming. Every book is written with a purpose, and its future shall have a history according to its merit. The world is flooded with pernicious papers, tracts, magazines, pamphlets, and books. There is nothing more calculated to enervate and defile the mind of the community than the reading of frivolous and impure literature. While bad books are pouring forth from the press with a tide that knows no ebbing, I re- joice in the easily demonstrated fact of the in- crease of books, at once safe, instructive, and entertaining. Parents should be as anxious to know the books their children read as the persons with whom they familiarly associate, or under whom they are placed for instruction. A book stamps its impress upon our intellectual and moral nature, and either enriches or impoverishes our moral character. vin INTRODUCTION. Here is a book that parents may safely put into the hands of their children, and Sunday School officers may confidently place it in their libraries. Having examined the proof sheets of "The Victorious King, " I have no hesitancy in com- mending it to the people of Canada. It is written in a style that has always had a fascination for youthful readers, and indeed for all classes. The subject of this book is of vital interest ; and the influence of it must be elevating and purifying. This story of *^ The Victorious King " shall be read by grave and gay, by old and young. I shall be very much mistaken if its perusal does not give an increasing relish for the Book whose sublime mission is to extend the kingdom, and reveal and glorify ^* The Victorious King." Wishing it a career of ever-enlarging influ- ence I cannot but express the desire that the Author may in the years to come, learn of many induced by his humble effort, fo ofibr their allegiance to Him whose name is magnified on every page. John Potts, Toronto, May 1878. THE VICTORIOUS KING. CHAPTER I. INTRODUCTORY. THE KING, THE GOVERNOR AND THE FOREIGN PRINCE. NE morning, as I wandered into the suburbs of a city, I came to a by-path leading by the base of a rocky moun- tain. After having followed the windings of this path for a considerable distance, I alighted upon a stone projecting out of the r'3ck. I had not been seated long, how- ever, riveted in thought, ere I was startled to my feet by the sound of artillery — it shook the ground upon which I stood. I immediately retraced my steps ; and, looking to the right hand m 10 THE VICTORIOUS KING. I and to the left to ascertain the cause, I belield a gentleman coming toward me. I gladly saluted my fellow early traveller with ** good morning, sir," then sought of him the reason for the startling noise I had just heard. He smiled. Gentleman, — " The King is coming!" Wanderer,— ''TheK'mgl What King? What is his name?" »' O, — "Oh, as for his name; we have but one king here, therefore when we say * the King,' it is always understood who is meant. When I say there is no other king, I should mention that there is a Prince, whose residence is in the northern region, in the wilderness be^ ond this territory. He is called * the Foreign Prince.' You cannot imagine the extreme coldness of that region: the sun never shines there, and its in- habitants are altogether without the elements of true life. It is a rugged country, with every path beset with briars and thorns : the air is infected with malignant vapours ; and desolation and horror reign supreme. "This Foreign Prince often makes inroads into the King's territory ; and doubtless the artillery you have just heard was used for the purpose of repulsing another of his attacks." THE VICTORIOUS KING. 11 W. — ** Well, sir, I thank you for what you have told rae ; but I certainly would like to know all about the King and the Foreign Prince. Is it not a wonder the King does not compel the Prince to remain peaceably in his own territory ?" O. — " That is just what he is about to do ; and, further, if you are not limited to time, I will endeavor to tell you a HI know upon the subject, from history and what I have been told.'* I thanked the gentleman, and we both walked to the projecting piece of rock I had a few min- utes before left, and sat down. . . », O. — ** Now sir, first of all you must under- stand that this kingdom belonged to the present King's father, whom we will call His Majesty. It was always His Majesty's wish that the king- dom should be kept for his son, the present King ; but it was to be given to him on a day appointed by His Majesty, which day was known only to himself and his son. For the meantime, His Majesty put upon the throne one of his subjects, who was called the Governor. Of course, upon his accession to that office, he received most explicit orders as to how he was to govern the kingdom. His Majesty wis accus- tomed to come to the palace and converse with f 12 THE VICTORIOUS KING. i|yi! the Governor^ for they were on the most inti- mate terms. On one of those memorable occasions the King specified to the Governor the things which he desired should be kept for his own pleasure. Taking the Governor into the flower and fiuit garden, the King is reported to have addressed him thus : ' Everything in these pal- ace grounds you can apply to whatever purpose you choose, except the fruit of that one tree/ pointing to an extremely choice apple tree in the centre of the garden, * I wish it preserved for my own use ; therefore, the day in which you violate the confidence I have placed in you by eating thereof, you will forfeit the governor- ship-' m IK.:. ■ 'J-y: •!■' " This matter was well known to the Prince, and one fine morning he said to himself, * I will just step into the adjoining territory, and call at the palace to congratulate the Governor upon his appointment/ ^ .^1^; ^ riv^ "Arriving at ^the palace, and the Governor being out, the Prince introduced himself to the Governor's wife. * Madam,' said he, * I am the Prince of the adjoining territory, and call at the palace to congratulate the Governor and you upon his appointment to the governorship.' The THE VICTORIOUS KING. 13 woman thanked the Prince in the name of her husband, for his expression of friendly sympathy and good-will. ..-^.^ "As they talked together, the Prince remark- ed : 'I suppose His Majesty has given the Governor directions how to rule the kingdom.' Then, without allowing the Governor's wife time to reply, he exclaimed, ' What an abun- dance of luxuries you have existing around you! What choice fruit !' * Yes,' remarked the woman, * and we have the utmost freedom in the use of them all, excepting the fruit of the tree you see in the centre of the garden. That tree we dare not touch, for His Majesty has reserved it for a special purpose, and a strict prohibition has been laid upon us.' "* Oh!' said the Prince, ' I know His Majesty; there is not another tree like that in all the palace grounds ; it is a very singular tree, and its name is The Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil. His Majesty knows very well that if you were to partake of the fruit of that tree, its many virtues would place you on an equality with himself, and the kingdom would undoubt- edly fall into your hands .' *' ' You do not think that of His Majesty,' asked the woman, * do you, Prince ?' u THE VICTORIOUS KING. I : I " * You do not know him so well as I do/ the Prince replied. " * Well, if your opinion be a correct one, I do not see why we should not share in the fruit, and obtain the benefits to result therefrom.' '* With that she put forth her hand and par- took of the fruit which she was forbidden to touch under the penalty of banishment. '' The Prince, having accomplished his object, wished her good-day, and took his departure. '*' I have carried out ray plan, well,* said he; * I wonder what His Majesty will say when he goes to the palace this evening and finds the branches of that choice tree of his ruffled, the leaves strewed upon the ground, and some of the fruit gone.' " You must know, sir, that the Prince was always His Majesty's enemy, and always did what be could to frustrate His Majesty's pur- poses ; and being so crafty and subtle, he often had occasion to rejoice over his success. " When the Governor returned to the palace, his wife related to him the Prince's visit and the circumstances attending it, at the same time presenting to him some of the fruit she had taken from His Majesty's tree. Singular though nil THE VICTORIOUS KING. 15 it may «appear to you, sir, the Governor mani- fested no concern or displeasure, but freely ate of the fruit, for the purpose, no doubt, of obtain- ing the results above referred to : but, alas ! they had broken the command of the King, and punishment, and sorrow, and remorse soon fol- W. — " Pray, Sir, did you ever visit the Prince's domain ?" ' h * ?^ G. — " No. I was once upon the border of the King's territory, northward, and I could see something of it then." # > W. — ** Is it a cultivated country ?" Q,— " All that I could see was a barren wil- derness, and I have read a similar description of it, therefore I conclude that it is nothing better than a land of barren mountains, naked rocks, yawning precipices, unfathomable gulfs, and dens and caves ; with numberless wild beasts, such as inhabit cold northern regions." W. — " I hope the Prince never takes any of his captives there." (r. — "I can assure you he does, it is his supreme delight to do so; and many a poor wretch has been shut up in those caves, where they were fearfully tormented, until driven to 16 THE VICTORIOUS KING. ! despair they committed suicide. Indeed, though the crime of self-murder is of every day occur- rence, I have never yet heard or read of one of theKing's subjects committing suicide, but those who had been led into captivity by the Prince, and confined within the borders of his wretched domain." TF[ — " Indeed, Sir, you surprise me." ^*" G. — " The statement is a true one. Even the governor and his wife would soon have been there, had not His Majesty interposed ; for that was the sole object the Prince had in view in visiting the Palace. But, notwithstanding His Majesty's great displeasure, he befriended the governor, and thus saved him from further degradation and final ruin." W, — "In what way did his Majesty in- terfere ? " G. — " The governor and his wife found the words of the Prince true enough in one sense, though not in that .which he pretended, for their eyes were opened to a sense of shame, and they obtained a * knowledge of good and evil,' at least so far as to make them conscious of having contracted evil by violating His Majesty's injunction. Therefore, when the ■-^i'- THE VICTORIOUS KING. 17 King went to pay one of his frequent visits, they hid themselves in a thicket, in order tj escape his presence, and the punishment they apprehended. The expedient, however, was a vain one, for his Majesty immediately enquired ^Adam,' (for that was the governor's name), * where art thou ? ' in such a manner as to draw forth an. answer from behind the thicket. The culprits then came forth and made a frank confession of their guilt to His Majesty. The Foreign Prince was also summoned, and His Majesty addressed him in the following manner : — " Prince, you have dared to come into my dominions, and have entered into my Palace, and taught my subjects to rebel against me. Because of this there shall be enmity between you and me, and a sad affliction shall rest upon you. You have now usurped dominion over the governor and his wife ; but the time is coming when ray Son shall lay you low in the dust and crush your head, that your power may be destroyed an 1 my subjects live in peace." W. — " Did His Majesty retain the Governor upon the throne ? " 18 THE VICTORIOUS KING. G, — *'0h, no! His Majesty could not suffir his Palace to be polluted by creatures who hat I thus committed themselves. Having broken the contract by which they held that delightful place, they could continue there no longer : they were driven out and His Majesty took the government into his own hand.'* " Understand, Sir, that the governor did not know by whom he was deceived or overcome ; nor did it occur to them that they had been made the victims of artful falsehoods and base misrepresentations. Prior to this they were His Majesty's subjects, and highly privileged ; but as soon as the Priiice overcame them by his persuasions, a rebellion took place and the Prince obtained a victory.*' " I must tell you, however, that His Majesty did not want for a representative in his king- dom. He soon found another person with whom he could deposit his will ; through whom, also, the affairs of the kingdom might be sent to court, and justice obt:iined. Of the Court itself I need not tell you, further than that its business increased in importance daily, — as the number of those were multiplied that groaned under the galling chains of the bond- THE VICTORIOUS KING. 19 age and oppression into which they had been thrown by theshortsightednessof their governor. Petitions for help were often forwarded to His Majesty, in the interest of individuals, and in every case where sufficient evidence was given of sincerity, help was immediately granted." W, — " Did the Foreign Prince enter the King's territory again, for the purpose of in- terfering with His Majesty's subjects ?". . , i* G, — " Indeed, he did. Succeeding so admi- rably in his first attempt, the Prince was en- couraged to renew his attacks, which he did time after time, thereby creating great con- fusion and hatred, which not unfrequently resulted in terrible war and bloodshed. The kingdom was full of inhabitants, and, under the management of the Prince, iniquity had increased in an equal proportion with population. The efforts of the King were inefficacious to maintain order and sobriety. Rebellion followed rebellion ; violence, debauchery and injustice reigned supreme, that the patience of the King was tried long. At length the abominations of the people became too offensive to be borne with any longer, and His M«ijesty resorted to arms. Incidents of the terrible 20 THE VICTORIOUS KING. I n i ! i ! battle have been handed down to us by the historian, who upon the highest authority states, that with the exception of a few i'aithful and peaceful subjects — for whom His Majesty found safe shelter during the conflict, — the whole of the multitude perished in the fight. " In the well-being of the few spared ones» His Hajesty took great interest, and maintained direct communication between them and His court. The few soon grew to be a vast multi- tude. But strange to say, the remembrance of the great battle in which their ancestors were completely overpowered and lost in the general carnage, on that fatal day, did not cause them to adopt a wiser policy ; the vices of the previous inhabitants of the kingdom, were renewed, and soon had a predominating in- fluence in society. Corrupt principles and evil customs became so prevalent as to require more than oidinary strength of mind on the part of the few persons who mourned for the corruption which they could not stem, to keep from being affected by the contagion. Envy and discord steadily gained in extent, and internal commotions, such has had not been since the creation of the world, convulsed the THE VICTORIOUS KING. 21 kingdom from centre to circumference. I need scarcely mention to you that the Prince was the great leading character in all this. En- couraged by the success of his early performances, he renewed his operations, as the population increased, and to his infinite delight, met with unparalleled success; but to the people — certain destruction." I must now hasten and come to the present King's reign, i . , ,<,v ,-■»>. )Kxt%y-'.^t:r--:^(^jt -:*^^ ■|'siiC:---'?,i), .* ■ " ■ " • ■ ti! *'-**.'■,?,,? i ;;■ 'I- /'i (<'i CH4PTER II. HIS majesty's charge to his son. — the son ENTERS the KINGDOM.-MAKES A TOUR THROUGH IT.-HIS BATTLE WITH THE FOREIGN PRINCE. ENTLEMAN.— " One morninp; there was more than usual stir in His Majesty's court house; great activity might have been seen in every depart- ment ; whilst an air of bewilderment pervaded the countenances of His Majesty's ser- vants as they applied themselves to their re- spective duties. But When it was generally known that the set time had come when the administration of the governinent of His Majes- ty's kingdom was to tail into the hands of his son, all bewilderment was dispelled ; and there was great rejoicing, as the son departed to occupy his important station ; — for everyone knew that under his wise, vigilant and zealous government, THE VICTORIOUS KING. es- his ero py the condition of the people would be greatly im- proved, and their position, an individuals and as a nation, greatly advanced-provided, (^f course, they were loyal to their King. " Before the son left, however. His Majesty addressed him in words similar to the following : * My much beloved son, I have long purposed that you should occupy the throne ot my king- dom, and now the day has arrived for you to enter upon your mission. First of all, 1 wish you to take a tour through the kingdom to see if the bondage and distress is as bad as represent- ed at this court. After thoroughly acquainting yourself with the condition of the country, you must summon the Foreign Prince, the usurper of the throne of my kingdom, for business. It may be that in order to rescue my subjects out of his hands you will have to fight a bloody battle with him ; but be of good courage, for I have promised that you should take bis powc r from him ; therefore gird up your loins for the work !' " When His Majesty's son entered the king- dom there was not one to receive him: although he came to his own territory, not a solitary individual knew him. He presented himself at 21. THE VICTORIOUS KING. I[! the court house, before those appointed to exercise authority over the people, but even these despised him, refusing to receive him as the son of His Majesty. He presented them un- iinpeachiible credentials, but they turned a deaf ear to them. So far this conduct on their part was to some extent excusable, for they had never before seen the Son. But His Majesty interposed, and gave to the court m;iny tokens of his Sonship, ahd thus left them without ex- cuse; their minds, however, were prejudiced, and these displays of His Majesty's only tended to increase their displeasure, and to magnify, to their view, the arrogancy of the * presumptions' man. a j ;K.i '• His Majesty's Son, being a man of beautiful character and of unshaken principles, stood firm to the commission he had received, notwith- standing the base injustice and insensibility of the court, and the defiant attitude they assumed toward his father. " He commenced his journey through the land, passing through cities, towns and villages. Wherever he went he found the people not only bound in slavery, but weak, perverted, defiled, and serving with rigor under hard task- ppp THE VICTORIOUS KING. 25 tnnsters, who received their authority from the Foreign Prince. ^ '• The wretched condition of the people moved him to pity, and he exclaimed, * with my own arm I must deliver this people from the power of the Prince ! Instead of slavery, there must be freedom ; darkness must give place to light ; corruption, to purity ; misery, to happiness ; ignorance and superstition, to knowledge and wisdom ; the tyrannical power of the usurper, to the mild and genial sway of a righteous sceptre/ |:,: ^;;- :.u,: ;'-.;< :vV ,, " Every morning it wtis the custom of the Prince to take a ramble into some unguarded or very thinly populated section of country to take a view and prospect of the place, and to pick up any poor wretch who might happen to fall in his pathway. The King's Son being on a journey through the kingdom, there was a possibility of them coming in contact with each other. This they did, one morning, in a mountainous tract of land. The Prince spied the stranger at a considerable distance, and, on coming within the reach of voice he exclaimed : *Soho, there ; stand ! * He knew that the King* < Son was a stranger by his dress, and the calin- 2 r 20 THE VICTORIOUS KING. If ness and simplicity of his appearance. As they approached each other, the Prince interrogated his fellow traveller thus: * Who are you? What business have you in my dominion? What reason have you to give for walking over my grounds?' (( * I am His Majesty's son,' was the reply, ^ and am come to take possession of the kingdom.' ^ " * You His Majesty's son ? You take possess- ion of the kingdom ? Why, I have had it in my power these many years. If you are His Majes- ty's son, show me your authority,' retorted the Prince, with a wild and angry look. w " 'I am aware. Prince, that you have had this kingdom under your power and control for many years past ; but I am come to rescue the kingdom out of your hands. My business is to destroy the baneful dominion you have exercised so long, and this authority 1 have received of my father.' '* * You take the kingdom !' the Prince vehe- mently reiterated. * You destroy my power ! A man like you ! Consider the consequences.' " * You may be a powerful enemy to confront,' said the King's son, * but my authority is to do battle with you. The charge against y^u is a most serious and grievous one. It is, that you THE VICTORIOUS KING. 27 e- A are responsible for all the evil, wretchedness and misery which, during the long and dreary past, have blighted this once fair, prosperous and happy kingdom. You have led the people in rebellion against my father's government ; have erected temples for profane and vicious worship, and terminated the many paths you have instituted converging from them with sad and melancholy germinations. The subject is too doleful for me to dwell upon long together ; but be assured, that as certain as the light follows the dawn, so sure are these slavish fetters which sustain you to be broken, and the people eastward, westward, northward and southward fchall rise to the dig- nity of the free and virtuous.' *• The Prince sidled about and shrugged his shoulders, then said, * Come, come ! you need not make this ado. Don't be headstrong^ A battle is out of the question ; there is no neces- sity to appeal to arms ; we can compromise mat- ters. Yonder,' said he, * is a very high mountain, let us journey to it, and from its summit we can command an excellent view of the countrv, which will well repay you for your trouble.' This suggestion of the Prince was carried out. Both having ascended to the top of the mouu- 28 THE VICTORIOUS KING. tain, ihe Prince produced a powerful telescope, and placed it in the hands of the King's son, saying, * Look through this, and behold the country right and left ; see its splendour — the many magnificent cities, the glorious palaces, the stately towers, the lofty mountains, the beautiful lakes, the majestic forests — see all this glory;' then, with a bold effrontery, he added, * Now, if you and I can compromise matters, I , will plnce you upon the throne, and you can consider all things as your own. After this, i surely there is no need fighting about it/ " The Prince having finished his offer, the King's son, regarding it as base in the extreme, abruptly replied, 'Gettheeheiice, Prince ! Would you have me listen to your wicked insinuations and dishonor my father ? No ! I have a mis- sion to perform, a victory to win, a grand and * mighty achievement to accomplish, and I must do it conscientiously and honourably !' *** Well, well,' said the Prince, * if you will fight it out, you must. Name the day and the place.' ** The Prince then hastened to his own terri- tory. In the meantime, his lords and courtiers had become much concerned and were full of THE VICTORIOUS KING. 20 ; I fear and apprehension regarding his welfare, owing to his unusually long absence. When the Prince arrived, his court enquired of him what had happened to detain him so long. Said they, 'You look sad and thoughtful, and full of rage; is anything amiss in yonder territory ?' *" Yes,' replied the Prince. *As I was taking my walk this morning— as you know I am wont to do — I met a person on yonder mountain : a stranger. 1 immediately commanded him to stand. He did so. On my approach I confront- ed him with several interrogations, as to who he was, and what he wanted. He said, *1 am the son of His Majesty, and am taking a journey through the kingdom to acquaint myself with the people and their general condition, previous to assuming the governorship myself.* This excited my indignation; but when he continued : * The end in view is to ameliorate the condition of the people, to disenthral them from the en- tanglements with which you have so successfully imprisoned them, and to render them free, un- chained, unpolluted and upright,* I felt mad with rage. But it was necessary for me to sup- press my feelings ; for, you see, the cause is a good one, and if he is the King's son, acting 30 THE VICTORIOUS KING. under his authority, there are chances of its succeeding. In fact, how can a good cause like that fail ? It is irresistible and indestructible. Therefore, knowing that our highest interests were at stake, I endeavoured, in every possible way, to compromise matters with him; but in vain. Had he submitted to my proposals, you see, he would have been within the range of my power : but I could not bring him to ; so we must fight this new rival. In the meantime, let us look for the best results, Now, gentlemen, I will tell you what I want you to do : prepare your clubs, and your tomahawks and spears; get your armour brightened up, and stand in readi- ness for an attack. Further : if you come in contact with any of the rulers of the people, lay before them in the strongest language possible, the danger of having a new king ; and make them understand that with them a new king will mean new ruleis and new laws. Finally : haste ; it is not for us to trifle. Time is short.* " * Leave that to us, Prince,* said his lords, * we will manage the affair.' " The King's son, having completed his jour- ney through the kingdom, made himself ac- |iiL inted with the oppressed condition of the THE VICTORIOUS KING. 81 I people, and assured them of better times to come, he associated himself more particularly with a few chosen men, of very humble origin and oc- cupation, who afterwards became his body-guard. He next directed his way to the court house, where he found one of the Prince's lords assem- bled with the members of the court. This re- presentative of the Foreign Prince had already addressed them to the following effect: " * Gentlemen, you know that for a long time past you have had order and peace in this realm.* " They all answered in the affirmative. " * Well, gentlemen, as the Prince was taking his walks the other morning, he met with a person, who styled himself His Majesty's son, prospecting through thecountry , with the avow- ed purpose of finally assuming the supreme government of this realm. Now, you know that the accomplishment of such a purpose would be suicidal to your individual interests, inasmuch as a new king would institute new laws and appoint new rulers. You cannot afford to enter- tain such an idea for a single moment. In the name of the Prince, therefore, I call upon every one of you to oppose this new comer — who is but an impostor, at best. What answer do you make ?* 82 THE VICTORIOUS KING. ! " The whole assembly answered, ' We will oppose him.' " Having entered the court house, the King's Son began, without ceremony, to prepare the way for future events, by purging the house of the accumulated filth of years past, and to divest it of everything dishonorable to the sacredness of the place. "Seeing that his zeal was kindled, as he applied himself to this task, and drove out a number of profane persons, the members of the court appealed to him for an explanation of such extraordinary conduct. * By what au- thority,' they asked, * do you undertake to do these things?' " * By His Majesty's authority,' he replied. " * Who are you, then ? * "*I am His Majesty's Son, and am come to take the government of this kingdom ! ' " ^ Shall we not be right, if we say you are an impostor ? ' " * I am no impostor. My mission is one of love and mercy. To rescue my subjects out of the hands of the Prince ; to emancipate them from a bondage more debasing than chains and more deadly than leprosy, 1 am come ! ' THE VICTORIOUS KING. 33 I "Remarkable to relate, the court did not oppose the King's Sort. Though their proud and LigoUd hearts "were filled with rage, they fled from his presence, as they vociierated con- tinuously, * we want no new King 1 ' " As the King's Son persued his course through the gloomy wilderness of misery and degradation, scattering the seeds of friendly persuasion and loving counsel, some were led to attach tlum- Kelves to him and afterwards walked in his footsteps. One of these had formerly been one of the 1 rince's most particular and valuable allies. The Prince, becoming acquainted with the matter, said to one of his lords. * The other day I saw one of our once loyal subjects with that self-styled King's Son. I want you by some manoeuvering to reclaim him, the very first opportunity you have to converse with him.* So the Prince's lord went out to search for the man, and finding him, said : *how is it that 3'ou have left the Prince and joined yourself to that fellow, called the King's Son ? You know not who he is, or where he is from ; and consider what you are exposing yourself to when he is taken by the Prince and slain, — for a battle haa been decided upon, and that will most certainly VA THE VICTORIOUS KING. be the end of him. Further, you know that in heart you are not with liirn, your sympathies are still with the Prince. However, the matter has not gone too far, for we can turn this rash and unwise action of yours to very good account, if you will lend your assistance. Particularly I will not advise you what to do; but the thought occurs to me that your best course, seeing that you have free access to his company and hold the confidence of his most intimate Iriends, would be to betray this King's Son, into the hands of the rulers; and they will despatch him forthwith, before the day arrives for the battle, that our cause be not injured.' " The man promised to do his best to serve the interests of the Prince. We will style him the Trailer, ^ a » i<* *' The time drew near when the battle was to be fought. The night before, the King's Son and his body-guard supped together— the Traitor? who was professedly one of them, being present. As the son conversed about the pending conflict, his body-guard became distressingly anxious, and all pledged themselves to give him their heartiest support. All, I say ; that is, except the Traitor, who spake not a word, but rose THE VICTORIOUS KING. 35 from his seat and went out. When the Traitor had departed a happier feeling seemed to p- " In this mangled and apparently helpless condition, the King's son appeared on the battle field. Being thirsty and weary with hard usage, he asked a bystander to give him water. At such times, you are aware, there is always water standing ready : accordingly they affected to give him some ; but, instead of handing him water, it was a potion consisting of vinegar and gall, which he refused to drink. ** The mob having heaped upon the King's soa taunts and reproaches without measure, the Prince gave command for a flourish of clubs and spears, which was quickly followed by a heavy thrust at their opponent; but, as they drew sufficiently near, though mysteriously, he struck the whole company with terror, without the least exertion, and they fell to the ground. As the forces of the Prince recovered themselves, the people shouted, * Down with the king!' Then the Prince sprang forward and struck at THE KING IMMEDIATELY AFTER HIS BATTLE WITH THE TOREIGN PRINCE. SP IINCE. THE VICTORIOUS KING. 39 liim, but the blow was parritd off and a bard thrust made at the Prince, which brought him to his knees. Intense rage and disappointment now swelled the malevolent breasts of the Prince and his soldiers, and they sprang upon their opponent with all the fury at their command and dealt him a blow which caused him to fall, while blood gushed forth from the wound. The mob at once, believing him to be dead, became frantic, and filled the very heavens with their shouts. To their utter astonishment, however, the King's son recovered his feet, whereupon he immediately retaliated upon the Prince a blow which prostrated Itxm upon the ground. The wound inflicted was so severe that the Prince was not able to rise again, though it did not prove fatal. He was therefore compelled to surrender and come to terms. Then the King's son, exulting over his prostrated foe, exclaimed, in the language of a triumphant conqueror, • It is finished!' Through the loss of blood, and the hard usage to which he had been submitted, he fell fainting to the ground ; in fact, he appeared to be dead. The people said he was dead, and they took him away for burial. But in a very short time he revived and was himself again. 40 THE VICTORIOUS KING. **The event was a moraeiitjus one. All nature was agitated, and many prodigies dis- tinguished the great occasion. The heavens seemed covered with darkness and the sun blot- ted from the firmament ; the earth trembled at her foundations ; rocks were broken to pieces, and, most remarkable of all, numerous graves opened, and tlie bodies of persons came out of their tombs. ** I previously told you of the painful bond- age in which His Majesty's subjects had been placed by the Foreign Prince ; now, 1 have to inform you that by this triumphant victory of the King's son, liberty was procured for them, and the Prince was compelled to submit to an agreement to withhold none but those who re- fused to place themselvos under the King's rul'»" I .«,* CHAPTER III. THE KING AFTER HIS BATTLE WITH THE PRINCE. — ^THE MEETING OF THE KING WITH HIS BODY-GUARD.-THEY CONFESS THEIR UNFAITHFULNESS. — CONFIDENCE RESTORED. — THE KING CHOOSES HIS MINISTERS. — THEIR DUTIES. — THE KING'S JOURNEY. — THE SEAL ARRIVES AT THE PALACE. ENTLEMAN.— "The noise and tumult of the previous day having calmed down into the stillness of even-tide, and nature assumed her wonted sobriety, the King's body-guard were offered ample time to withdraw themselves from the busy throng, to reflect upon their cowardly desertion of the King. The circumstances, though apparently natural and simple, afforded abundant matter for candid and instructive reflection ; which reflection did not fail to pro- duce in them contrition. . 3 42 THE VICTORIOUS KING. " As they were thus dwelling upon their past insensibility and forgetfulness, the King appear- ed in the midst of them, " Of course his body-guard were delighted to see him, and they embraced the first opportunity, though timidly and with much confusion office, ^0 confess to him their unfaithfulness and want of courage, and craved forgiveness. ^* Instead, of being proud, reserved, unchar- itable, orrv, orious and vindictive, the King was gentle, c ..-^ ''sionate and forgiving. He said to them : - 1 kr o -"r your hearts, but your strength was sma:;, a^d '\. x^-ve you.* How diflferent you see, sir, was n^o i emper from that of many men, who for the slightest causes, and frequently without any provocation at all, seek to punish, vilify, reproach or otherwise injure. " Full confidence having been restored, the King's body-guard ventured to congratulate him upon his triumphant victory over their most inveterate enemy, the Foreign Prince. A few hours previous they saw him in the dark valley, battling, single-handed, with the fierce attacks of the Prince and his army ; but now their ad- miring eyes were intent in looking upon him as a mighty champion, a successful warrior. Refer- In u a, cu m H P pei <«J :3 O I >« Q O P3 C/3 Q <; O I— I a '■ THE VICTORIOUS KING. 43 a: u a. cu D H ««; o « 9 > Q O pa to Q Z o 35 " ring to this memorable conflict, the historian thus introduceth the King as a mighty victor, returning from the field of battle : * Who is this that cometh from Edom, with died garments from Bozrah ? This that is glorious in his ap- parel, travelling in the greatness of his strength? Wherefore art thou red in thine apparel, and thy garments like he that treadethout the juice of the grape ?*" TF. — " Of what advantage, sir, in particular, was the victory of the King to his body-guard, that they should pay him homage and be so devout in expressing their sorrow for having forsaken him, and thankfulness for his signal victory ?*' •' . /j G, — "On the night of the supper, you remem- ber, the King gave them instructions, and im- posed upon them certain commands. He was their King, and whatever he commanded they were not to regard as frivolous or impertinent, but to look upon them as an absolute necessity. It was a matter of great importance whether they believed the one and obeyed the other or no, if they did not wish to sever their connection with the King, and to forfeit all the privileges of association with him. Now, whatever they 44 THE VICTORIOUS KING. believed, they did not obey his command. I nstead of following after him, they ran away, and thus violated the chief condition upon which they were to remain his friends. But, when the King saw them, after he had come to himself again, instead of being full of anger and punish- ing them, he compassionated them, and thus were restored to his confidence. Here, to say the least, was a particular cause for thankfulness. Then there was a general cause why they should be thankful. They had witnessed the most glori- ous sights that were ever lo be seen on the face of the earth, namely : — The King's son walking about the streets, until weary and foot-sore, dis- coursing with the most wretched and abandoned, with so much majesty and humility, and his ultimate battle with the Foreign Prince, the usurper of the throne of his father's kingdom and the oppressor of his subjects, lohom he had emancipated from abject slavery. ^^ W. — " What motive prompted the King ? " O, — " The possession of the kingdom was no great advantage to him, for he had both honor and power sufficient ; but the people had become so obnoxious to His Majesty, through their revolt against him in the person of their former gover- THE VICTORIOUS KING. 45 nor/ by whom they had been subjected to the authority of the Foreign Prince, that he was painfully anxious to remove from his view the wretched sight, not by subjecting them to the sword, but by improving their condition. With- out timidity, and without the least objection, the King's son accepted this important charge, which he so courageously and indefatigably fulfilled, viz : that of breaking the chains of their captivity, securing the people from the bondage of the Prince and leading them forth into the liberty of His Majesty's free subjects. Here, you see, was sympathy and goodness beyond measure, and the people should have been filled with thankfulness to the author of it. To pos- sess the blessings thus procured for them, virtue and obedience only were required ; but, sad to tell you, many had the pitiable ignorance and absurd perverseness to reject them." W. — " Sir, did the King make any use of his body guard, after they had deserted him?" O, — " Yes. In the first place the King said to them, * Ye are my witnesses that I have fought with the Prince, and defeated him, and have with my own hand delivered the whole of this kingdom.' ) i> 46 THE VICTORIOUS KING. " They replied, ' "We are witnesses.* ** *And, now,' continued the King, ' I am about to make you judges and rulers under me; because I have a long journey to go, and cannot say when I shall return to rule the Kingdom in person. I shall require you, in my absence, to occupy the Palace, each one discharging the duties of his office, as judge, councillor, messen- ger or herald, in the manner becoming the dig- nity of his position, which requires you to be perfect and upright, and your conduct conform- able to your principles. " * When you go to the Palace look well to the wardrobes and see that all the garments are clean and white ; examine all the vessels, of what sort soever they be, and make sure that my stamp is upon them all. " * But, first of all,' continued the King, * I want to instruct you in the method of ruling my subjects. My wish is that the heralds go forth through the land and proclaim to every person that I am King; that I have fought with the Foreign Prince and conquered him ; that thereby the people have been delivered with my o^/n hand, and that every one may now be free from the dominion of the Prince. I THE VICTORIOUS KING. 47 ** * At first the people may frown upon you and render your prospects black and forbidding; but continue to invite every one to enlist under my standard, explaining to them all things im- portant to their individual interests : that I have gone on a long journey but will return and reign in the midst of them at the Palace. Speak to them particularly of my victory over the Prince, their ultimate participation in my conquest, the privilege and honor of residing at the Palace, the pleasures and beauties of the place, — which will infinitely transcend ail their hopes and expectations, —and in time the sub- ject will become agreeable to them, and many will take delight in inquiries, even as they would naturally do concerning any foreign country where they expected sometime or other to make their abode. In fact they will all hope to be admitted into such a delightful place when they have heard your message ; most of the people will have the curiosity to get what in- formation they can of it, and look upon it as a place worth contending for. ** ' Further : everyone that is willing to come under my authority, abandons his mode of liv- ing under the Prince, and is willing to fight under my standard, — pledging his word to do 48 THE VICTORIOUS KING. IM SO faithfully, let such purify themselves as a token of their separation and freedom from the Prince; then they may receive my signature, that every person may know that they are my subjects. ** ' Unto the Judges I will give my seal, that they may use it upon all necessary occiisions. '' 'The Councillors I command to give faithful counsel to the judges at all times. "*And I command the heralds to go forth to every place where there is a gathering of peo- ple, to make known to them the pleasure of the King and his laws, and encourage the people to obey them in every -day life. *' ' But, until I send the seal, which I will do in a few days, I wish you to stay at the Palace. When you have received it, then go forth, re- membering that I have sent you. " * In all cases of difficulty that may arise, you are at perfect liberty to send petitions to my father's court for assistance, and all needful help will be immediately given. ** *And now I leave you ; farewell. Be faith- ful.' " They all bowed themselves, even to the ground, and the King departed. i> i tfi THE VICTORIOUS KING. 49 (< i. The King's servants at once retired to the Palace, and began to set everything in order. The first place they entered was the armoury, to see that the helmets, breast-plates, shields, swords, girdles, and shoes were in condition and ready for use. The next department visited was the wardrobe; and thus they went through all the palace. *' Having finished their task, they sat down to await the arrival of the king's seal — the in- dispensable qualification for the work he had as- signed them ; when one evening, as they were conversing together, a tremendous noiseoccurred; it shook the room in which they were assembled. Rising to ascertain the cause, they found that the king had redeemed his promise by sending the seal, and that the noise was the peculiar method chosen by which to announce its arrival. '' All present were then sealed, and thus were invested with power and authority for the dis- charge of their expective duties. ' f CHA.PTER IV. i THE KING S PROCLAMATION — ^THE FOREIGN PRINCE S OPPOSITION. ■•-■ ■"•., , ■' '■■■ ■■ \. ENTLEMAN.— " The day was dark, and the condition of society gloomy and insensible when the representa- tives of the King arose for the perfor- mance of their duties. "The judges called the heralds, and said to them, * You are the heralds of the King. A great work is before you, but you are fully prepared for it, having been consecrated by the King's seal. Therefore, go forth on your errand of peace!* " So the heralds put on their armour, which consisted of shoes for their feet, a helmet and breastplate, a girdle for their loins, a sword, and a white robe for their shoulders. With this equipment they sallied forth, visiting cities, THE VICTORIOUS KING. 51 towns and villages for the purpose of calling the attention of the people to the King, who had fought with the Foreign Prince and con- quered him. " The appeara^ice and manners of the heralds were such as to attract notice, especially the lowly spirit they manifested on all occasions. Consequently, they were followed by all ranks and sects, and their fame was echoed far and near. "The large multitudes that flocked to hear them, the respective heralds addressed in words to this effect: — ^My purpose in visiting you is one of love. The victorious King, whose subject I am, has sent me to comfort the people, to heal the broken-hearted, to proclaim emanci- pation to the slaves, and liberty to the prison- bound. By the King's victory over the Prince all the people of this kingdom have been liber- ated from bondage, and are now free to throw oflf the yoke of the tyrant Prince, he being no longer able to deny you your utmost freedom. The banner of the King has been unfurled, and blood-stained though it be, if you enlist beneath it, its shelter will aflford you the greatest safety and comfort. There are, however, certain con- 52 THE VICTO lOUS KING. l! i^ ditions upon which these privileges are to be possessed, and a certain model of character to which it is absolutely necessary to conform. These two matters are of vital importance to you all, therefore I pray you to give me your closest attention while I give a slight explana- tion of them. ** * In the guide-book prepared for by our King, we find a passage reading thus : ' And £ say unto you, ask, and it shall be given you ; seek and ye shall find ; knock and it shall be opened unto you. For everyone that asketh, receiveth ; and he that seeketh, findeth ; and to him that knocketh, it shall be opened.* This is a promise made by the King : you are entitled to it, but its fulfilment is to be sought for. If you honor the King by asking, it is his pleasure to give, ^}'ou see how simple are the conditions : comcy ask, and receive ! In addition to this is required a perfect loyalty to the King, unlimited confidence in his gov- ernment, and a ready and cheerful compliance to all his wishes. "* In order to show you some of the advantages enjoyed by the King's subjects, I will give you a comparison between your present condition ^HE VICTORIOUS KING. 53 ) and what it may be by simply availing your- selves of the privilege you have of forsaking the Bervice of the Prince and swearing allegiance to the King. This comparison I also take from our guide book ; it was drawn for our assistance by the King himself, and is therefore worthy of your best consideration. Nmjo^ your state is one of darkness, doubt and despair, emptiness and poverty, bondage and corruption, weakness and suffering, and weeping and sighing for sorrow of heart. It may he one of * marvelous light,* ^ strength,' * full assurance of hope,* * fulness of blessedness,' ^ glorious liberty,' — indeed so free as to ' mount up on wings as eagles, run without weariness, walk without growing faint,'-' peace as a river/ ' singing for joy of heart,' ' everlast- ing joy upon your heads,' 'rivers of living water,' and the * everlasting consolations.' Now the subject is before you ; what do you think of it?' " The herald having finished his address, one of the people asked, * Where is the King ?' to which the herald replied somewhat as follows : After the battle with the Prince, the King was obliged to go on a long journey, to visit his father, who called him from his station with honor, to quit the well-fought battle field, to spend a short time with him in the mansion^ I 5 THE VICTORIOUS KING. where he might refresh himself after the dust and toil and heat of the day, and change his hlood-stained garments for other rohes : but he certainly will come again, and reign in the midst of his subjects in the palace. In the meantime, he has commissioned his ministers to assist him in managing the a£fairs of the kingdom. We are his witnesses, and declare unto you that when he returns he will gather his people to the palace ; but the Prince and his followers he will subject to bondage/ "As I have before told you, sir, the addresses of the King's servants attracted considerable notice, and their statements brought to them numerous hearers and disciples. There waa something peculiarly striking in their manner — a peculiar something that awakened the minds of the people. But their surprise and wonder reached its consummation as they listened, each one for himself, to the welcome words which dropped from the lips of the heralds. Indeed, sir, I am told that the people rejoiced with ex- ceeding great joy, evinced much anxiety to have their names enrolled in the King's register, and flocked in multitudes around the heralds, asking, ' What shall we do ?' THE VICTORIOUS KING. 56 " To such, the heralds replied, * Be faithful to your King ; and those amongst you who are able, build places in which to hold your courts, and let this be your ensign : — The King, who fought with the Foreign Prince and conquered ! ' ** When the Prince saw how the people flock- ed around the King's messengers, and the in- fluence they exercised over them, he called a grand council of all his subjects holding promi- nent positions in every part of his province, for their craft, to use an historical phrase, was in danger. " The Prince was the first to address the council. ' My lords and gentlemen,* said he, * you have observed what a stir and commo- tion these representatives of the King are making ; how the people flock around them and are influenced by their addresses. We know not where this thing will end unless we at once bestir ourselves to keep it from spreading.* " ' I propose that you confront them in per- son,* said one of his lords to the Prince. ** * But, you know,* replied the Prince, shrug- ging his shoulders, ' I hate the name of the King ; I cannot stand before it. However, I have a plan which, I think, will succeed, and 56 THE VICTORIOUS KING. that is, to collect a mob from amongst the most abandoned of our people to carry out our in- structions. That will check them.' "Accordingly, the Prince despatched his lords to every part of the King's territory where the King's messengers had been, who addressed the people in words similar to the following : — " * You see these men, who go about proclaim- ing the King, and making all sorts of promises to you, pretending that the King has sent them, and given them authority so to do. Gentlemen, you must think fcrr yourselves, and not be beguiled by these men, who depend upon their wholesale imposition for a livelihood. Depend upon it, they are impostors; if you encourage them, they will certainly bring you into bondage, and put a fine upon you. Furthermore, the Prince will recompense evil for evil ; his future treat- ment of these self-styled heralds of the King, for their creeping, mean and fraudulent efforts to undermine the security of the Prince, and to disturb the peace of his loyal subjects, will show that he has neither forgotten nor forgiven them.' **As the Prince and his numerous lords were thus busily employed in their efforts to counter- act the counsels of the King's heralds, and THE VICTORIOUS KING. 57 raising barriers in order to prevent any further intrusions, the heralds continued diligently to apply themselves to their duties. But the op- position they met with in every direction showed them how vastly extensive were the power and influence the Prince and his votaries wielded over the people. New scenes of cor- ruption and turbulence — the exhibition of am- bitious and wicked devices — prevailed every- where ; mobs collected together wherever the heralds went, and insult followed insult in rapid succession, as the mob rushed hither and thither with a furious impetuosity, like the crash of contending elements, at the bidding of the Prince and his lords. One of the King's most intimate friends even died from the injuries he received. This circumstance was regarded by the infuriated mob as the climax of their design, and for a moment or two their tumultuous and cruel proceedings gave place to irregular shouts of applause, and much congratulation. " ' Well done ! ' said the Prince. * You are brave boys. You have been eminently success- ful. Surely this will stop them.' " W, — " Sir, after all, was the power of the Prince affected in any way by the labors of the King's servants T 68 THK VICTORIOUS KING. O. — " Yee, sir ; it was. You understand that the Prince had no authority over the people ; but he had the audacity to assume authority, and, without compunction, to oppose the King. Not unfrequently, as I have before told you, he suc- ceeded in captivating the minds of the people, and in creating general disorder in society. The heralds, however, had every confidence in their King and in the mission he had committed to their charge, and they labored on in the discharge of their duties with unremitting zeal. The more the Prince opposed them, the more thorough- ly did they devote themselves to their work. When the contest rose to its highest pitch, they maintained their integrity as firm as a rock of adamant, thus proving themselves, if I may hazard the expression, obstinately virtuous. " Withal the rabble and mob ; despite the Prince's lords, yea, and the Prince himself, the people flocked around the standard of the King, and rejoiced as the heralds explained to them their commission, in the following words : * We come to preach glad tidings unto the meek; to bind up the broken hearted ; to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound.' Multitudes, I am told, enrolled their names. Such was the THE VICTORIOUS KING. s» power invested in the heralds by their King's seal, that the people often stood in awe before them; even the most corrupt and fiendish of the Prince's representatives sometimes fled from their presence, and others were overcome by their words." W, — " What course was adopted after the her- alds had traversed the Kingdom ?" O, — "After the heralds had visited every part of the King's territory, the judges, accompanied by their councillors and messengers, went through the Kingdom to visit those who had become faithful subjects of the King, for the purpose of taking their word of allegiance. When they came to a city, town, or village, and saw the King's standard floating in the air, they knew where to find an assembly of the King's subjects. Their time of meeting was on the first day of the week, to attend to the gen- eral business of the court ; to eat and drink to- gether, and to sing their national songs, — all of which was done with a strange sweetness of mind and joy and pleasure, as if some one invis- ible was talking with them. *' It was the first day of the week when the judges entered a certain town, where they 60 THE VICTORIOUS KING. found a court-house dedicated to the business of the King. As they entered the place they were recognised by the assembly, which expressed its great pleasure and joy in being able to welcome them, and solicited instruction from them. "The eyes of all that were in the house were fastened on the judges, as one of them stood up to address the people : " * We/ said he, * the servants of the King who fought with the Foreign Prince, and con- quered, are happy to meet so many of the King's subjects, collected together for the purpose of giving your word of faithfulness to him, and the transaction of important business. " *Our object in visiting you is to take your word of allegiance to the King in a formal man- ner. But since it is not wise to do anything rashly or in haste, a few words of explanation re- garding what should be your general behaviour and mode of living, will not be out of place, in- asmuch as you are in every particular to distin guish yourselves from the subjects of the P' You have been led to join yourselves King for the purpose of securing fre^doui anr' happiness ; therefore it is of the utmost impor- Mf tuc THE VICTORIOUS KING. 61 tance thnt you should properly understand what this freedom and happiness consist of. In a word, we tell you it ia pleasure. But there are two kinds of pleasure, the natural and the fan- tastical. Now, your King knows no caprice, no fashion — there is nothing whimsical with him, and he requires his subjects to partake of the same character, hence the latter pleasures are not to enter into your experience. The natural pleasures j'ou may feel and enjoy to your utmost capacity, and they will render you tranquil and cheerful in the pursuit of them. The various objects that compose the world, were formed to delight you ; the groves and fields where you walk, the blue sky above you by day, the morn- ing and evening clouds, with their variations of light, the moon by night, and the sparkling stars ; the trees of every size and hue — indeed everything in nature is capable of afibrding you real pleasure and enjoyment. But the pleasure which, of course, will affect you most will be the sense that you arc acting under the favor of your powerful, wise, and gracious King, and the anticipation of the time when he will re- ward your present faithfulness with the happi- ness of dwelling with him in the Palace. This pleasure you may daily anticipate ; indeed I am 62 THE VICTORIOUS KING. Ill bound to impress upon your minds the necessity of so doing. Such a course will be a perpetual spring of gladness in your minds ; it will lessen your calamities and double your joys ; it will render the most humble abode amongst you one of pleasure and delight, and prepare you to meet your individual ' ups and downs * with a calmness and courage that will ensure success. " ' That the Prince will assail you, both pub- licly and privately, and on all occasions you are aware. But you never need be ashamed, for in every conflict with him you may gain a victory. In the King's guide-book, a copy of which each one of you must possess, and be careful to study, you are clearly and emphati- cally told that the Prince may trouble you on every side, but you will not be distressed, he may perplex you, but you will not despair; he may persecute you, but you wiU not be for- saken ; he may cast you down and threaten your destruction, but he cannot destroy you. " * We will now give you one or two illustra- tions of the pleasures we have been pleased to term fantastical, in order that you may be more careful in avoiding them. A desire terminated in riches and a desire for outward distinction THE VICTORIOUS KING. G3 have been very properly classed among them. When we refer to riches, we do not mean silver and gold only, but comfort, possessions, enjoy- ments, — whether goods, lands, houses, wares, or riches of any other kind. After we have left you, you will have many opportunities of watch- ing the daily life and hearing the sentiments of our and your enemies, — the adherents of the the Prince. Amongst other characteristics, you will perceive that they estimate riches very highly, but it is simply from a desire grounded in fancy — that riches is a thing that can make them happy, that happiness consists in having much; hence they prefer them before other things. As an instance, it is recorded of one of the Prince's subjects, that because his ground yielded a rich and abundant harvest, he enlarged his barns and filled them with stores for many years; then told his soul to be unspeak- ably happy with the thought of being rich and well provisioned for a long time to come. We assure you the time is not far distant when all such will be stripped of their present * fantastical* pleasures and be turned into bankrupts, when they will be cast into prison without ever having themeans to relieve themselves. What theircon- 64 THE VICTORIOUS KING. dition will then be, we will leave to your own imaginations. "*As the representatives of the King, it is our privilege to explain to you his will and pleasure, and in his name to command you to observe and practice it. In the first place you must not think the King hard, and murmur, when we tell you that it is in accordance with his mind that some of you, for the present, should be poor, and labor amidst many discour- agements for your daily bread; but in conjunc- tion with this do not forget that when the King returns you will be most liberally enter- tained at his table, have his presence always with you, and enjoy all the privileges and blessings of priests and kings. By this you perceive that the condition of things is to be reversed : Now you may be poor and your enemies rich ; then, you will be rich and they poor. Then in the meantime your experience may be contrary to your natural tempers and inclinations, but be not sad and woeful, nor look with envious eye upon the apparent prosperity of the Prince's subjects : for the time is coming when they shall even want a drop of water, and shall not be able to get it — such will be THE VICTORIOUS KING. 65 their abject poverty. They have been fore- warned of this by the servants of the King who preceded us in their journey through the kingdom, but though many have acknowledged and praised their benevolence, their admon- itions remain unregarded. By some infat- uation they appear to think themselves safe, and therefore refuse to turn aside for a moment to consider the freedom and protection the King has procured for them, and which is now await- ing their acceptance. '** ' On the other hand yaa have left the Prince. Your minds are now being prepared to relish the pleasures in store for you at the Palace, where your delights will ever continue, and be unmixed with pain and uneasiness ; where your eyes will feast on objects the most lovely and enchanting your mind could ever conceive — all illumined by the effulgent rays of a never setting sun. The Palace grounds will be beau- tified with groves and shrubberies, having a verdure peculiarly their own ; the choicest flowers, of the richest perfume, will blossom on every side ; while an inexpressible sweetness will pervade your every thought, word, and ac- tion, as you roam amidst the gay, unwithering Acene and enjoy a glorious and never-ending life. 66 THE VICTORIOUS KING. " ' For your further encouragement we are required to remind you that the time you have to remain in your present state is very limited and will swiftly pass away. This fact should make you joyful and save you from forming melancholy views of your place of residence, and the objects surrounding you. As often as possible, look around and survey the rich var- iety of beauties of this kingdom, and then con- sider whether a place so exquisitely formed could be meant for the abode of bondage, mis- ery, and pain ? Be strong and of good courage ! You need net fear, neither be dismayed. What you have to do is to see that all your works and actions please the King and then leave the result with him. He has conquered the Prince, your chief enemy ; he is also able to crush all jour adversaries; to direct any misfortunes Irom befalling you, or turn any such misfortune to your advantage. In a word, he is able to take care of you. He will also give you special favors, but they may appear under the shape of pains, crosses and disappointments ; have pa- tience, however, and ^ ou will see them in their proper figures. Dangers may sometimes threat- en you, but you may rest assured that they will not reach you, or that if they do, they will be THE VICTORIOUS KING. 67 made the channel of good to you. In short, you may look upon hardships, crosses, accidents, Bufferings, and difficulties, as so many means which the King is pleased to use in educating your mind and otherwise preparing you for residence with him in his palace. '* ' Finally, as we will have other occasions to assist the councillors in instructing you in the will and pleasure of the King, we will now pro- ceed to initiate you. "'Do you,' said the judges, 'individually, solemnly pledge yourselves to renounce the Prince, and come under the King's rule, so that you will neither serve the Prince nor imitate his followers, but will serve the King with pleasure and be faithful to him ?" " The people gladly replied, * We will serve the King. We will be faithful.' " The judges then proceeded : ' In token that you have renounced the Prince, and have freed yourselves from his service of bondage and slavery, wash yourselves in water, that you may be perfectly clean for the service of the King ; then we will seal you with the King's seal, which seal you must be extremely careful not to obliterate, or even allow to become tar- 68 THE VICTORIOUS KING. nished, for it is intended to be of much valuable service to you, not only as an evidence of exist- ing favor between you and the King, but this, and this alone, will pass you at the palace gate, when the King comes to celebrate with you liis triumphant victory over the Prince. Prior to this, however, you will require the King's seal on another most important occasion, of which it is necessary that you should know something. " * I am not permitted to describe to you the exact location of the King s Palace, but I may tell you that it is situated on a most salubrious island, covered with fruits and flowers, and made melodious by the singing of birds — in every respect it is the most lovely spot in all creation. The access to it, however, is not of so enchanting a nature. The water surrounding the island is most voluminous and as repulsive in its appearance as a child's first idea of the dead sea. Then this river is bounded by naked, rugged and wild-looking rocks, which rise high above the surface of the water. Unwelcome as this barrier may appear to you, it has another peculiar feature, not in the least more enticing : by some peculiar phenomenon, the sun never shines upon this river, consequently the whole THE VICTORIOUS KING. 69 scene is shrouded in impenetrable darkness. Over this precipice^ over this river, nnd through this darkness we must all pass in order to reach the palace. But be not alarmed. The subjects of the Prince have all to pass through the same ; but under far less auspicious circumstances^ and to a far different destination. At an earlier period we told you that when the King returns he will shut up the Prince and all his subjects in prison. Well, this prison has been prepared on another island of this river — a most desolate place and far removed from the former. What I have now to say will again show you the value and importance of the King's seal. Before the King left for his journey, a series of steps were erected from the edge of the river to the summit of the rock, of such width as to admit of a person passing safely and leisurely down. At the port below numerous ferry-boats are provided, manned by experienced pilots, who are the most intimate and devoted friends of the King. Each boat is furnished with a suitable number of brilliant torches, and in this way you will be safely conveyed to the opposite shore. But the passage-way referred to is well guarded by servants of the King, in order to prevent intrusions from the subjects of the Prince. When 70 THE VICTORIOUS KING. ": 4 you get there you will find throngs of people constantly coming and going, intensely anxious to pass that way, but, having no passport, denied the privilege. From these, the subjects of the Prince, you must be distinguished by the gate- keepers, and the only thing to convince them of your right to enter will be the King's seal. It is true there is another way down to this black river, but it is far removed from the for- mer, and is a most wretched and melancholy one. At the order of the Prince the steps were made of the meerest rubbish, and in a most broken and ruinous manner, as if to cause the passer-down unspeakable pain and anxiety. The way is necessarily very broad and is unguarded ; nevertheless, but very few, if any, will be wil- ling to avail themselves of it. The Prince's subjects, however, will have no choice; for the King has decided, at his coming, to divest his kingdom of the conquered Prince and his adher- ents, and remove them to the island beyond the river, more particularly furnished for the future habitation of the Prince and his lords. There- fore, when the King commands it, they will have no alternative but to go. The Prince is aware of this, but it would be altogether foreign to his policy to reveal the fact to his subjects. THE VICTORIOUS KING. 71 *^^ We need not dwell further upon this mat- ter. Every one of you must see the absolute necessity of guarding well the seal, as most sacred and of infinite value/ " The King's subjects having been sealed, the judge said to them : — " * We place this robe upon you, which you are to wear constantly. Whenever you meet in court upon the King's business, take care that you never appear without it. This is the robe you are to wear in the presence of the King when you meet at the palace ; therefore, see that you keep it perfectly clean. Now we leave you ; but the King's messengers will re- main to instruct you further in the King's pleasure, and to educate you for his presence and company hereafter.' i; • " The judges departed. "As in the meantime, so the Prince, with his lords and the mob, continued to harrass the King's subjects greatly; often entering their court houses, dragging out the people and shame- fully pelting and beating them. On one occa- sion they captured one of the King's judges and put him in prison. The King's subjects imme- diately drew up a petition and sent it to His 72 THE VICTORIOUS KINU I f Majesty's court for assistance. The petition received due attention, and help arrived at the prison about midnight. The result was, the doors were thrown wide open and the prisoner was liberated. On another occasion they attack- ed two of the King's representatives — a judge and a councillor — in the market place. After being hustled and shoved about, and suffering other ill-treatment, they also were locked up in prison. His Majesty was again petitioned for assistance, and in reply he sent his artillery and bombarded the prison : the doors were burst open, the prisoners were relieved of their chains, and were set at liberty, and, impressed by this wonderful exhibition of authority and power, the turnkey begged for mercy and obtained it ; and he and all his family joined the King, and had their names enrolled." W, — " It appears, sir, that the Prince, with all his manoeuvering, continually lost ground." O, — " Yes : notwithstanding that he distressed the King's subjects much, even killing some of them, they multiplied greatly." W, — " Pray, sir, tell me something about the councillors. What sort of men were they, and what was their particular work in the King's court ?" .^,fem^.,^.„„.-„„. .,,.„ — ^^ ^. this THE VICTORIOUS KING. 73 G, — " Well, sir, they were men qualified to give counsel to the judges. They were what I might term sharp-eyed gentlemen. Having eyes suitable, they could discern things afar off. Furthermore, the King's mind was made known to them, and they were thus prepared to instruct the judges in all matters affecting his kingdom. **Thus matters continued for many years, and the business of the King greatly prospered.** ( fl i vv> vW ^ ^^h!^Ps-i^^ ^ M '^i^^ • ^ -r 1 OC ^^^): ',<^l^^ '^^ \ -^ • CHAPTER V. THE FOREIGN PRINCE ASSEMBLES HIS COURT AND DEVISES A PLAN. — THE PEOPLE DESPISE THE king's MINISTERS. — A REPUBLIC FORMED. ENTLEMAN. — "To love an enemy was a precept the King delivered at an early date to his friends, and one which he established by his own ex- ample. Love was to be the rule by which the heralds of the King were to measure their conduct when dealing with the subjects of the Foreign Prince : though indignation and hatred would most certainly be the distinguish- ing features of the treatment which they, as representatives of the King, would receive at their hands. According to history, they were continually the objects of contempt and scorn ; nevertheless, they never indulged in passion, never courted revenge, but welcomed an oppor- tunity to express the zeal of their attachment THE VICTORIOUS KING. 75 and obedience to the King, and performed many actions in the interests of the subjects of the Prince, as they were suggested from time to time by their "uling principle, love. They did not conceal their commission through fear, or pervert it from a regard to convenience or ad- vantage ; but protested with earnestness against the immoralities of their infuriated enemies; their violence, debauchery and injustice; at the same time not forgetting to urge upon the atten- tion of the people the question which most seriously affected them, namely : whether they should continue to follow the Prince in consider- ation of the delusive pleasures and gratifications he guaranteed them, but which were in the near future to come to an abrupt and final end ; or, on the other hand, secure the pleasures of a life fixed, settled and abiding, and obtained on easy terms. Every man, upon the first hearing of the question, knew very well which side of it he ought to close with ; and, I am told, that many not only accepted the theory, but were induced to adopt the right side of the question in practice. The rest of the people, however, continued giddy with the glare of the Prince's overtures — mountains of gold and glittering [ II 76 THE VICTORIOUS KING. pleasures, (but, in reality, chains worse than misery: a dreary vale of vexation and pain) — and cheerfully submitted themselves to be jostled by the votaries of the Prince. Thus they re- mained far away from liberty and reason, deaf to all entreaties, and enslaved in body, mind and soul : * Happy wretches, pleased at their peril !' . ' " That the representatives of the King had so well filled their peculiar positions, and that the extraordinary commission with which they v»«re entrusted had been so far successful, in breaking the chain of bondage and leading the people forth from the captivity of the Prince, was a most mortifying reflection to him and his coadjutors; and as they watched the issue with sericuB attention, their already inflamed and deep-rooted enmity became heightened into the most rancorous malice, which they sought to give eflfect in troubles, persecutions and crimes. "Observing that the interests of the King still flourished, and that the number of his fol- lowers was still on the increase, the apprehen- sions of the Prince became more and more alarm- ing. Under the impression of these facts, the THE VICTORIOUS KINO. 77 Foreign Prince called together his counsel for the purpose of devising another and better plan of opposition. "'My lords, and gontlemen/ said the Prince, ' you know that for the last few years every member of this council has been actively em- ployed in endeavoring to counteract the influ- ences of the King's representatives : but we have not succeeded. The more we have injured and afflicted them, the more the people have multi- plied and grown in their attachment to the King. Gentlemen, it is to consider this matter, that I have called you together, and to devise a plan by which we may thoroughly and finally crush them ; for we are in .secure so long an we allow these people to exi«t as a separate body.' " The courtiers readily acnedi^d to the propo- sal of their master, and immediately set them- selves to work to devise a scheme for the rooting out of this hated people. Several plans having been propose 1, but none of tliem appearing to be practicable or equal to the task in view, one of the most prominent of the Prince's lords, an in- genious fellow, rose up and said : " * Most noble Prince and gentlemen of the council, you will forgive your old friend, who 78 THE VICTORIOUS KING. I has troubled you now and then with something like advice, if he should do so once more, now there seems to be particular occasion for it. Gen- tlemen, the business we have before us is a very serious matter ; but not more serious than the progress of that work which we in the past, though unsuccessfully, have done our best to destroy. To my mind, we have no more diffi- cult task to perform than the one now before us; therefore we must l)e particular to institute such a scheme as will carry us through and bear us out to the end. I propose then, first of all, that several members of this council be commis- sioned to traverse the whole of the King's ter- ritory for the purpose of visiting every assembly of his subjects. When amongst them they Avill assume a face of sanctity, a corresponding cha- racter and deportment^ and manifest a strong attachment to the King. Of course, great cau- tiousness and circumspection would be necessary in speaking on points where tlieii deception could most easily be made apparent. Adopting such a plan, it would not require much ingenuity for them to insinuate themselves into the very heart of the people ; thence to positions of in- fluence and trust. Haying accomplished this, THE VICTORIOUS KING. 79 **o, and gained the affections of the people by affect- ing a direct and personal interest in all matters touching the court, then, with tongues smoother than butter and words sweeter than honey, they would beg to draw the attention of the people to several needed reforms in the managing de- partment of the King's court. " 'As there is scarcely any sentiment in whicF amidst the innumerable varieties of inclination that nature or accident have scattered in the world, we find greater numbers concurring than in the wish to save money and to get rich, it would be excellent policy, to suggest to the courts, in the first place, the great folly and ex- pense of keeping up the Palace. For various reasons the subject might be somewhat dis- tasteful to them for a time, but by the com- missioners constantly keeping it before them, it would, undoubtedly grow upon them insen- sibly and finally appear in an aspect both pleas- ing and satisfactory. " * In the second place I would suggest that an attempt be made to incline the people toward the belief that having been so long in the King's service they know his laws and requirements, and are well able to carry on their government 80 THE VICTORIOUS KING. ! . f i without the assistance of the Judges and Coun- cillors. Thus the people could be led to despise and abandon their principal instructors without our deception and various artifices being dis- covered. The way would then be effectually opened for further advances, which I need not at present specify." " After the great applause, upon his lordship resuming his seat, had subsided, the Princv? im- mediately rose to thank him for the excellent suggestions he had made. "Said he *yourplan, I am persuaded, will meet the necessities of the case ; and to super- intend the work I do not see a better fitted person than yourself; and I will give you the privilege of selecting from the Council the ne- cessary number to assist you in carrying it out.* *'The Prince having dismissed the Council, the men appointed to perpetrate this new and dia- bolical piot upon the credulity of the people, at once provided themselves with robes similar to those worn by the King's subjects, in order to appear as one of them and thus avoid detection. "' All being ready these * wolves in sheep's clothing ' entered the King's territory with the avowed purpose to devour and destroy'. When, (/ THE VICTORIOUS KING. 81 however, they appeared at the different Courts they were careful to salute and embrace the King's subjects as brethren, pretending to be one of them ; expressed a sacred regard for the honor of the King, and a grateful sense of the duty which they owed to all his followers, and labored to convince the people how much they were concerned for their best interests. '* In course of time they were raised to emi- nent positions ; and what they regarded as a very suitable opportunity to propose a change in the management of the King's Court very soon presented itself. The principal Court having assembled for general business, and the appro- priations having been made for the King's treasury, one of the Prince's lords arose and said : " * Brethren, as there is nothing of an arbitrary or compulsory character in the king's govern- ment, inasmuch as we may either accept or re- ject it, I have often thought that we might with immense advantage to ourselves abandon . the practice to which we have long been habit- uated, of contributing to the support of the king's ministry. At firi5t you may feel an aver- sion towards this suggestion, but remem))er that 82 THE VICTORIOUS KING. hi I I during the lung time we have been the King's faithful subjects we have acquired a full know- ledge of his will, and have cheerfully obeyed all his lawH, Now we have attained to an in- telligence and stability sufficient to warrant us in dispensing witii the services of the judges and councillors. Further, when the King first took possession of the throne, their services were absolutely necessary, and all honor and praise to them for their many self-sicrificing efforts in our oehalf during the years gone by. But things have changed ; now we know the laws, and customs, and privileges of the kingdom as well as they do, consequently I cannot see that any further service is rec^uired of them. To enforce this consideration I would further observe that it would effect a great saving in our contribu- tions. Not more than one-half of the money now n quired of us would meet all the demands of government ; f«*r ei>.ch assembly could carry on the aflairs of its own court ; and to assist us in this we would still have with us the King's messengers.'" W. — *' Did this art of cunning and deceit prove in every particular serviceable to the Prince's lords ? " THE VICTORIOUS KING. 83 G, — " Yes, sir. Having made good their pretence to truth and sincerity, the people re- posed the greatest trust and confidence in them, which, of course, was an unspeakable advantage in theaccomplishmentof their purposes. Though the matter appeared to the people somewhat perplexing and beset with dangers, yet they consented to give it due consideration, with the idea, I presume, of avoiding a violation of kind- ness and brotherly affection. That such a fal- lacy could be imposed upon the human under- standing, as that any person should be able to advance a position so remote from truth and reason without being at once detected and branded as a traitor, would scarcely have been credible had not the facts of the case shown us how far through weakness and indolence the people were deluded, ** At a special meeting of the court the mat- ter was considered, but without the least jeal- ousy or suspicion attaching itself to the servants of the Prince. " The people asked : ' if we decide that it is unnecessary and inconvenient for us to continue our support to the King'n ministry, what will we do for the King's seal ? * " Ft =^ I ! i ^ [ 1^ 84 THE VICTORIOUS KINGw " * Oh I * said one of the traitors, ' I think you will agree with me when I say that the seal is of no special value to us now. The most to he said in its favor is that it is an established form, and every government has them more or less ; and continues or abandons them at pleasure. The voice of reason is more to be re- garded than the bent of any present inclination, therefore 1 propose that no more pecuniary as- sistance be sent to the palace. The messengers are well able to manage for us.* " As I have before explained to you, sir, the servants of the Prince succeeded in making good their pretence to sincerity, and thus created con- fidence in the King's subjects ; therefore, though the proposition elicited considerable opposition for a time, the labor of many useful enquiries was dispensed with, and, after a few meetings, the matter came to an issue : the proposition was carried, and the King's counsel despised." W. — " Did not the King do his utmost to set aside this actir \ of the courts ? " Q, — ** Yes, sir. As soon as the King had been made acquainted with every circumstance of this nefarious transaction, he caused his judges and councillors to pay a special visit to the dif- i\ «'■ THE VICTORIOUS KING 86 ferent courts so as to expose the Prince's lords and their wicked and cruel designs ; to reprove the people for tamely acquiescing with them ; and to save them, if possible, from the false and ruinous position into which they had been blindly led. I have said that these representa- tives of the King entered upon their benevolent errand with cheerful willingness, and hastened forward with great alacrity. But, if history be correct, the sensations of the people, as they were ap[ ronched, were very different from those of the King's servants. The judges and coun- cillors were ready to salute and embrace them as their brethren ; but the treatment they re- ceived from the people was unnatural ; whilst their language showed that the resolution they had formed they intended to adhere to. In vain the King*s representatives expressed un- common concern and grief ; in vain they tried to touch the hearts of the people by mentioning the good name of the King, and recounting to them the many privileges and blessings they had forfeited ; in vain they urged many fond solicitations and exercised all the attracting allurements they could devise to win back their obedient and willing service to the King. The 86 THE VICTORIOUS KING. I 1 people were deaf to all entreaties, and appeared insensible to the tender feelings which had for- merly ruled and characterised their intercourse with the King's representatives. However, they continued at their post, until they were relieved by the people, who, at the bidding of the Foreign Prince, caught them and arraigned them before the rulers as disturbers of the peace. Accordingly some were put in prison, some were put to death, and some were banished, so that in a few years not one of them was left." W. — " Sir, I wonder His Majesty did not send his artillery to deliver them ! " O, — " Do you not see, sir, that the people had no desire for the King's assistance ? They had despised his ministers, and when they wore in trouble. His Majesty's court was not petitioned ; consequently no help was sent." W. — " What became of the Prince's lords ?" (r.—**They returned to their own territory. As they presented themselves to the Prince, in the presence of their fellow courtiers, they were overwhelmed with congratulations upon the masterly and very successful manner in which they had executed their plans, and were com- \ THE VICTORIOUS KING. 87 manded to hold theniBelves in readiness for fur- ther duties in the King's territory/* W. — " What, sir, was the experience of the people after they hod rebelled against the King?" O. — " By this imprudent act of rebellion — in which the people consulted their own inclina- tions and partiality rather than the pleasure of the King, — they invested themselves with an authority which was easily abused, and which exposed them to strong temptations. Accordingly in course of time their principles became more and more affected. Certainly, the people may be said to have governed their sepa- rate Courts for a period with apparent success; but the stream of justice soon became so pol- luted by bribery and extortion that a general spirit of dissatisfaction was created ; and a ques- tion arose as to which should occupy the most prominent positions amongst them. Others again became clamorous for a division of the kingdom. " Here again the Foreign Prince who, in the meantime, had been anxiously watching the course of events, did not fail to avail himself of IMAGE EVALUATEON TEST TARGET (MT-3) V {/ / /. /°4> f/. ^ 1.0 I.I 1.25 IM '- 1.111= t IM M 2.0 111= 1-4 IIIIII.6 V] ^1 m. 7 / M Photographic Sciences Corporation 23 WEST MAIN STREET WEBSTER, NY. 14580 (716) 872-4503 "T vV T-^^rr-. , ^ ■::.jt.:^j " * Now, gentlemen, I have enumerated these facts in order that you may know exactly what we have to contend with. Our business is to op- pose the heralds, not by an open and avowed opposition, but in some way deceiving the peo- ple, and thus lead them astray. The time in which this work is to be done is painfully short.* "The applause having subsided subsequent upon the Prince resuming his seat, one of his courtiers asked * Would it be wise to adopt a similiar course to that pursued by us on the former occasion, when the people were led into rebellion?'" " * I think not/ replied the Prince. * Times have changed. People are more enlightened, and many of them have been able to see wherein their forefathers were led astray. Even any- thing similar to that would not be acceptable to the people.* " The Prince was immediately followed by one of his lords, who spoke as follows : , Ml lU THE VICTORIOUS KING. i ! " ' Most noble Prince and gentlem3n, I have spared no trouble to observe correctly as to the present position of aff.iirs in yonder territory, and I think I can point out a s ife and speedy method of drawing away the attention of the people fron the heralds ; without our hypoc- risy or impasition b3ing in the least suspected. This is our last opportunity, therefore what we do must be done quickly, and with vigor and perse verence ; for the time of the King's ar- rival is very near. We have no power to force the psople, but we cm set traps and then entice the people into them ; giving our attention more particularly to those who have sworn allegieiiC3 to thj King. In no wiy could we better accomplish this than by establishing pleasure entertainments throughout the king- dom, such as would have a tendency to corrupt thehortand ciU forth its evil passions into action. They would ba a novelty to the peo- ple, and many in a very short time would have a predominent desire for them, their appetite would lose its restraint, and all further efforts to prepare to meet the King would b3 deferred to a more convenient season. Thon again by tho aid of our friends ia the King's territory THE VICTORIOUS KING. 115 "vve cDuld introduce from time to time some new sittractive, and extravagant fashions in dress. These would be designed more particularly for the young, whose appetites are strong, and whose gratifications are heightened by nov- elty. Such frauds could be practiced with comparative ease and would be sure to lead many into an apostacy from which it would be difficult for them to return.' "Everyone thought they had been advised wisely, and it was unanimously decided to adopt the suggestions., as eminently calculated to meet the necessities of the case. "Accordingly the Prince's lords entered the King's territory in disguise, to introduce to the people and to instruct them in what they were pleased to call innocent diversions ' — never fail- ing to call attention to the strict regulations under which they were conducted ; i.e., the strictest morality ; a littl3 recreation ; good company ; useful amusement. Our motto : to entertain and improve." W. — " Sir, did the Prince's lords meet with any success ? " G, — ** Yes. To many of the faithful subjects of the King their pretences were transparent, 1 no THE VICTORIOUS KING. i I Is w w i and were easily read by them ; yet, having as- sumed a face of sanctity and covered their vices under somewhat of a religious deportment, many others were not wise and clear-sighted enough to discern their false, dishonest, and cruel de- signs, and easily became ensnared ; were brought under the suspicion of their brethren, forfeited the reputation of integrity, and the vast bene- fits and advantaj-cs whicf. accompany it. Indeed, the lords all united in eaying that they visited no place in the kingdom where ih^y did not find ready access to portions of the community. Everywhere they introduced their system of amusement, and everywhere were more or less successful. " But even with these hindrances the work of the heralds progressed at a rapid rate. Their operations extended to the remotest parts of the kingdom ; everywhei e, centres of light were kindled amid the darkness, until to-day the character of the masses of the people has entirely changed ; they are distinct from the Prince, and are awaiting the glorious future which will dawn upon them on the morning of that aus- picious event — the arrival of the King." THE VICTORIOUS KING. 117 W. — ** Hiive you any exact knowledge ul* Avliat time the King will come? " G, — *'This his followers are ignorant of; but they are looking every day for his arrival. The tokens of his coming they survey with kindling eye, and proudly welcome the ap- proaching hour. But on a subject so solemn in its nature it becomes us to speak with modesty and reserve. It cannot, however, but be a thought of deep interest to every loyal subject of the King to anticipate the period when they will be freed from the as- saults of the tyrant Prince and enter upon the peaceful reign of their King. When he who has been so long permitted to traverse the kingdom, planting and developing his various systems of evil, shall be driven out, wdth all those who have been deceived by him and who refused the deliverance offered by the King's representatives. Then will the shout of complete victory be sounded from city to city, and the whole company of the faithful reverberate the praises of the King's triumph over the greatest foe that had ever invaded his dominions." i . ' lis THE VICTORIOUS KINCx. IV^. -'' What a time of separation that will be. And what apparent emotions must fill the breasts of the people in that eyentful hour ! " O. — ** Yes, sir. Then the Prince, his cap- tives, and all the agents and instruments by which he has been so long enabled success- fully to carry on his work, will be blotted out of the kingdom. To give you an adequate idea of the realities of that day is impossible ; but doubtless one of the most touching and heart-rending will be the dissolution of family ties ; for it is a lamentable fact that but very few families wholly belong to the King. In many cases the children remain obstinate and refuse instruction and warning: these will be- hold their parents as they pass along in the procession, and take a farewell view of them at the entrance of the palace. In other in- stances the children have sworn allegiance to the King, while the parents are thoughtlessly indulging in the pleasures offered by the Prince, which they have chosen to the bliss and enjoyments of the palace." IV. — As we were interestingly engaged in taking a survey of the King's interests, the THE VICTORIOUS KING. Ill) lu woik r.ccrirjj lisliGcl by the heralus, cstiinatii g their conTeits hj millioDs, and the rate at which they continue to multiply through the persistent efforts of these representatives, who appear fully to comprehend the vantage ground which they occupy, and are pushing towards the final goal, despite the defiant attitude of the Prince and his emissaries, a tremendous noise startled us, and, with an air of bewilder- ment, I asked what it meant. G. — " Oh, it was the discharge of the King's artillery. You remember hearing a report just before we came to this stone." W,— ' Yes, sir.' G. — " But you perceive that it is much nearer now, — an intimation, this time, to the followers of the King, that his chariot wheels are gathering speed as they roll onward, and will soon arrive at their journey's end. Therefore, I must leave you, sir, and prepare myself to meet him." W — " Then, sir, you belong to the King ? " G. — " Yes, I was one of the first to leave the service oi the Prince." W, — " Sir, I am sorry we must part. Is it m I r 120 THE VICTORIOUS KING. possible for me to see His Majesty enter the Kingdom and proceed to the paLoce ? " O. — *' Yes. If you will accompany me, I will point you out a good place to which you can go at the proper time, and obtain a clear view." W. —1 thanked my friend, and gladly fol- lowed him. He led me by rocks and mountains until we camo to one much higher than the others, up which we wended our circuitous way, reaching its summit after much dilBGiculty. G. — " From here, sir, with the aid of a teles- cope, you will be able to see everything very plain. This is a lonely spot, but it is a favorite place of mine. I have always kept a telescope here, therefore I can provide you with one." TV, — So saying, my friend stooped down and took a very powerful telescope from a ledge of the rock. " Now," said he, ** look which way you will with this instrument you will be able to see for a very long distance." I placed my eye to it, and was really astonished and delighted; everything appeared, not only near, but so per- fect. But of all views the sight of the palace, I had just heard so much about, enchanted me most ; it was a magnificent view, ** Pray, sir," TW^xirwm THE VICTORIOUS KING. 121 tr- ie, le >» I asked, " what road is that I perceive in the distance?'* G. — " Oh, that is the road we expect the King to come by ; it is called the King's high- way. You see that it emerges from between two mountains, whose tops are lost in a thick mist. As the King approaches, the mist which you now see, will part and be dispersed by a glare of sunlight. Then the King and his attendants will be exposed to the full gaze of his subjects^ who will look upon him with infinite delight. What will be their expression of mental emotion tis they gaze upon the King with a consciousness of reconciliation, of security, of a title to the favors and enjoyments which he will be able to bestow, t cannot conceive ; but it must be rapturous and well nigh over-whelm- ing. In order to catch the first glimpse of his appearing, a watch has been placed on the road; and as soon as they see the light dimly shining through the dense mist they will raise their voices in a shout of joy ; others will immediately catch up the strain and the triumphant peal will be sounded to the remotest parts of the kingdom. Even the floods will clap their hands, the trees sing for joy, and the hills rejoice." 8 ' mm 122 THE VICTORIOUS KING. fV, — Having left the mountain, we came to where we had to part ; which was very reluc- tantly done. After expressing to my friend the unbounded gratitude of my heart towards him for what he had told me, we bade adieu to each other. ^yvvv^^ 8^^-^—^^^ CHAPTER VII. THE KING RETURNS TO THE PALACE.— THE PEO- PLE GO FORTH TO MEET HIM. — A TIME OP JUBILEE. THE FOREIGN PRINCE AND HIS CAPTIVES, sANDEUER. — As I was sitting one evening at the porch ot my family residence, pensive and alone, my eyes wandering occasionally among the beauties of nature scattered before me; the sun gone down, the multitude prepar- ing for rest, and the solemn quiet of evening rendering perfect the tranquility of my mind, my attention was suddenly arrested by the booming of cannon, which fell upon my ear like the roar of distant thunder, accompanied by an illumination resembling lightning flashes. f ;< 41,! 124 THE VICTORIOUS KING. The occurrence did not surprise m?, for from the time of parti. ig wiUi my friend, I had an- ticipated something similar. Therefore with- out consternation, but with great impatience, I hastened toward the elevated spot previously selected for me by my friend, as a most suitable place from which to behold the solemn and en- chanting scene, as it opened up before me. In a short time I found myself climbing the steep heights, whose towering crests topped every other object. On reaching the summit, I stood, as it were, suspended between earth and heaven ; below was the plain, vast in extent, and rich in fruitage and beauty, but shrouded from my view by the shades of night ; above was the evening sky, bedecked with innumerable stars, which, though at so prodigious a distance, darted their rays down to the earth, enabling me, assisted by a brilliant illumination constantly kept up at a central point in the King's territory, to see during the night hours all that transpired with- in a radius of many miles. My first anxiety was to obtain a glimpse of the palace and palace grounds, to see the gor- geous preparations made for the celebration of the King's return in all their perfection and il THE VICTORIOUS KING. 125 h grandeur. I looked, assisted by my telescope, nnd what a delightful scene met my gaze ! The palace, conspicuous for its noble architec- ture and towering peaks, was suffused in a flood of light; and the inclosure appeared as beautiful as the gardens of Paradise. In addition to the minute and glowing description of the place given to me by my gentleman friend, I saw in the centre a green and spacious walk, leading to the palace, shaded with trees of every kind, that were covered at once with blossom and fruit ; innumerable birds were singing in the branches. The grass was intermingled with flowers which impregnated the breeze with fragrance, and painted the path with beauty. On one side flowed a gentle transparent stream, which appeared just to murmur over the golden sands that sparkled at the bottom ; on the other side were walks and bowers, fountains, grot- tos, and cascades, which diversified the scene with endless variety and beauty. As I stood gazing in a transport of delight and wonder, on this enchanting picture, my at- tention was suddenly directed to the vast mul- titudes of people that were scattered before mo ; upon whom there seemed to have fallen a pccu- [ 120 THE VICTORIOUS KING. liar influence, for they were moving to and fro in great confusion. I went to the highest pin- nicle of the rock, and standing on the top of it, cast my eyes to the right. My vision at once embraced cities, towns, and vilhigcs, whose peo- ple seemed to have undergone a change con- formable to their individual characters, and suited to their future condition of life. Flags, which wee flying in every direction, bore an inscription of welcome to the King ; evergreens flowers and triumphal arches everywhere met , my gaze; harps and various other instruments poured forth melodious and enrapturing strains of music, and the pride and the joy of the peo- ple — composed apparently of every nation, and tribe and tongue — were unbounded as they maiched to and fro, greeting one another with pleasing and hearty congratulations ; turning midnight into noon by the splendor of their lamps, and making the streets resound with rejoicings. Their dress was a robe of purest white, and in their hands were pieces of palm tree. They were prepared to meet the King and join in celebrating his glorious victory over the Foreign Prince. Here and there men, women, and children were standing tip-toe with expectation, anxious i. THE VICTORIOUS KING. 127 11 <, to catch the first glimpse of his appearing; when, as it were, in the twinkling of an eye, his equipage became visible, in the long dis- tance, amid a solemnity and lustre human language must ever fail to describe. The great and good King was approaching ! The time of jubilee had come! What a shout of joy at once rolled round the kingdom. One people passed on the song to another people. Community after community lifted up its voice and swelled the triumphant peal, which, caught up by all the faithful of the land rose into loftier hosannahs. \ For a while I turned from the pleasing pros- pect Placing my telescope in an opposite direction, I saw a melancholy and distressing sight. There were multitudes of people, and uneasiness and solicitude was visible in every countenance. They were awakened to a sense of their condition. Wretched mortals ! They regretted the past, because it had glided away without enjoyment ; as the future promised them no reprieve, but a fearful increase of wretchedness and suffering, they did not wish for that future to arrive, and their hearts drooped within them as they anticipated the I 128 THE VICTORIOUS KING. moment when their doom would be fixed. Such was the intensity of their anguish and despair that their skin became contracted into a thousand wrinkles, their down-cast eyes .'eeper sunken in their heads, their complexion pale and livid as the countenance of death ; a hor- rid frown knit their brows, while dismal bowl- ings reverberated among the hills. The pros- pect was filled with desolation and horror. As I looked on the distressing scene it quite sunk my spirits, and seemed to annihilate every principle of joy within me. I here fetched a deep sigh, and a voice within me said, " death itself is far preferable to an existence so deplorably wretched ; an experi- ence BO full of woe.'* My mind being thus filled with a deep melancholy, I would gladly have left so uncom- fortable a prospect, feeling that I had dwelt long enough upon it; but curiosity compelled me to continue my observations. Accordingly I cast my eyes towards the left again, and to my surprise, discovered that a great change had come over the people — they appeared more astonished and dismayed and plunged into extremest distress. Their anguish of mind THE VICTORIOUS KING. 1£9 , and inward terrors, their bitter agonies and Bobs and sighs were enough to break their hearts and dissolve their being, if their hearts could break, or their being could be dissolved. To add to the awful solemnity of the occasion, at intervals there came the rumbling of artil- lery, causing the ground to tremble and the people to shriek with agony, expecting every moment to be overwhelmed by a still more severe and tempestuous deluge of misery and woe. From this dreaded calamity the people sought shelter. Many fled to the rocks and mountains, the dens and caves — the hiding places of the moles and bats. The deepest and most dismal caves and grottoes of the earth, the most rough and narrow clifts into which they could squeeze their bodies, {ippeared to be their most ardent wishes, that they might escape the indignation of the King and the weight of his wrath ; others ran to and fro in a most wild and frantic man- ner, smiting their breasts and uttering the pitiable cry " What shall we do ? " Some secreted themselves in their dwellings, with closed doors and shutters ; others sought shelter under heaps of rubbish or in thickets; whilst Ti 5 l:)0 THE VICTORIOUS KING. niiiny rolled themselves in the dust, tore away the hair of their heads, nnd in other ways gave expression to their great anguish of heart. It was an awful and dreadful hour; a scene ot tremendous suffering and confusion ! What must have been their apprehension, when hi/^h and hollow rocks, dismal dens and cvves, dark as midnight ; those gloomy retreats of melancholy and sorrow, which they had shunned with utmost aversion and could not bear to think of without horror, now became their choice retreat and shelter ! ' My astonishment for a time repressed my curiosity ; but soon recovering mj^self so far as to enquire what was the cause of such clamour and confusion — a change so unexpected and sudden in the condition of the people, whose dreadful apprehensions had even chilled my heart — I turned about with some anxiety, and was surprised by the sight of the rarest objects I had ever seen. The most engaging charms of beauty appeared in all her form ; effulgent glories sparkled in the eyes of the people, and their awful splendors were softened by the gentlest looks of assurance and peace. It was an exhibition of inexpressible sweetness and \ i THE VICTORIOUS KING. 131 i ii grandeur. I was quite transported at this un- expected change, and reviving pleasure began t\j gladden my thoughts. ' Instead of astonishment and dismay, there was serenity and joy fulness ; and the people kept up a perpetual cheerfulness. Every one had a sense of the nearness of the King, and enjoyed every moment the satisfaction of think- ing themselves in company with their dearest and best of friends. '* lie is coming ! He is coming ! " said they one to another. " We have long waited for him, but he is coming at last. Our faithfulness to him will now be rewarded ; our sorrow ended ; our hopes and his promises fulfilled. Wo dread no longer the Avicked Prince, for our future residence will be with the King in his palace, where we will enjoy perfect rest and sweet repose." As I looked more attentively I saw the hearlds and other officials moving swiftly among the people, instructing them in the order of the procession and the manner in which they were to express their homage due to the king; not merely on account of his inherent greatness, but because of the immense and matchless and infinite benefits they were 132 THE VICTORIOUS KING. M about to receive from him. Then the multi-' tudes in the language and feeling of adoration united in one strong and loud voice in singing " Blessing nnd honour, glory and power, be unto the King for ever and ever." Its sound came to me amidst the deep silence of the rocks, and (irmly do I believe that notes so deep and full of joy were never before wafted by the breeze ; it was a stream of perfect melody, poured forth by those who felt themselves secure and perfect in the favour of the King. - Turning my eyes in the direction of the rocks whence the scund of artillery came, I beheld the shining of a great light, far above the brightness of the sun ; another discharge of artillery followed ; then, in a moment, the most glorious sight that ever human eye could look upon opened to my view from between the rocks. Its transendant glory was beyond imagination ; the light of the sun was but a weak glimmer, cr rather darkness itself, in comparison with it. Most conspicous in the midst of those splen- dors was the King, arrayed in azure robes, crowned with amaranth, and waving a branch of palm in his right hand. He appeared to sit ' i 1 THE VICTORIOUS KING. 133 J under a canopy of gold. Around his circular seat, and p.irticularly at the phice wheve the King's feet rested, there was a covering of highly polished metal, which reflected an in- discribable glory. Slightly in advance were a number of musicians, bearing instruments in their hands. Occasionally they applied them to their mouths and poured forth music ex- ceedingly sweet and wrought into a variety of tunes, that were inexpressibly melodious, and so altogether different from anything I had ever heard, that it is impossible for me to describe it in words such as might convey a notion of it. I was reminded of those heavenly airs that are said to be discoursed to the departed souls of gooa men upon their arrival in Paradise, to qualify them for the pleasures of that happy place. Its strains were so transporting that my heart melted away in secret rapture, and I fell down and wept. As the procession drew nearer and nearer to the palace I perceived immense companies, from various directions fall into line, dressed in gar- ments of purest white. Indeed it is worthy of remark that white was the only uniform worn on the occasion ; at least, it was the only garb 134 TKE VICTORIOUS KING. visible to my eye. Certainly the apparel ot some appeared to be more costly than that ot others, more curiously wrought and more ex- quisitely embroidered ; but the hue and lustre of each was the same. In their hands was a piece of palm and every expression of CO- .tenance indicated with what pleasure they anticipated their arrival at the palace, to cele- brate the King's victory. Thus the procession marched on ; at times Blling the air with their hc^tiii. ;bei and other expressions of joy. " V/n^t an affluent and exuberent throng," said I to i 4f, "something immensurably vast; nnciWiVh ' ■-> infinite pleasure they con- tinually gaze upon the King ! " A measure of tliat delight was mine ; but what must have been their delight, being sen- sible not only of the King's presence, but also his exuberent and overflowing goodness lav- ished upon them. He prized them as trophies, and therefore could not be indifferent to them. Shifting my position a little, I saw the artil- lery fall back into the rear, and an egress from the palace of a number of heralds, councillors, and other officials, bearing in their hands the conqueror's palm. As they approached the THE VICTORIOUS KING. 135 f . J King what a joyful meeting Ihcy experiencid alter a reparation so long; a meeting in ast.ilo so much unlike the past as anything that the mind could conceive ! There were no dangers to apprehend; no rude alarms; no angry frowns ; no hostile opposition from the Foreign Prince ; but all was joy, and peace, and harmony, and love. Directing ray attention more to the right, I again beheld the palace, which, however, ap- peared to my view with still greater clearness and brilliancy. The fcight exhihirated my heart, and I readily fancied myself plunged into a rich prelibation of consummate joy, as thisspct of nature opened to fioh and giecn befoie me, with everything calculated to render one bliss- fully happy. Around the palace was a profusely decorated corridor, with seats provided for the trumpet- ers. Through the widely-opened door-places I obtained an imperfect view of a very large com- partment, the beauty of which appeared trans- cendent beyond even imagination ; so probably was the extent of it. There were lights behind lights; glory beyond glory. How far the space reached I could not possibly conceive; to my :a7v? 136 THE VICTORIOUS KING. inagination it Wis indefinite and nijasnreles3. Then, the ravjesty of the place was very great. Surely, said I, tho whole art of creation must have been employed here, as 1 iook<.'d on the glorious designs by which it was beautified. Evidently they were made to please and ravish the mind in all its most secret powers and facul- ties ; to transport it aftev an ineffable manner. In thinking on this place imaginations could not be raised too higli, because it was infinitely more great and glorious than what one could imagine. '' ;^ *• . - - Though I can only speak of the palace with regard to sight and imigi nation, I considered it highly probable that other senses wjuld like- wise enjoy their highest gratifications. There is nothing which ravishes and transports the mind more than h irm )ny, and the large variety of harps and other instruments which I saw gave me reason to believe that this was to be one of the entertainments of it. I might enter- tain the reader with many other speculations, in which we might innocently indulge, on this subject, from several hints received in viewing the place, but I will forbear. THE VICTORIOUS KING. 137 In the centre a position for the King was most conspicuous — a gorgeous throne, made of the purest and most polished gold, and studded with diamonds and sapphire; the base of it was of emerald. But the whole was so infinitely different from anything I had ever seen, that it is impossible for me to describe it, for want of an object to compare it with ; its glorious appearance rose far above my highest concep- tion. Since parting with my friend I had thought much about the palace ; and at the discovery of 80 delightful a scene, with its transcendent pleasures and beauties, such a gladness grew in upon me that I longed for the wings of an eagle t^ carry me away to share in its various de- lights, suited to the relish and acquirements of those about to occupy it. Sudden]}' my heart became wonderfully affected by the delirious plaudits of an en- raptured people, and the sweetest strains of music human art is capable of producing. For this sudden outburst of emotion I looked to the procession, when I perceived that it was caused by the people gaining for the first time a view of the palace. Even the King's counte- 9 I [ ■i 111 ■PPPVil 138 THE VICTORIOUS KING. % nance had become more winsome and his manner more fascinating. Immediately the trumpeters sounded " Behold the King ! '* those upon the towers caught up the strain and shouted '* He Cometh ! " while those occupying the corridor responded ** To the Palace ! " then in one grand united effort the musicians and people shouted forth their praise in these magnificent strains : " O sing unto the King a new song, for he hath done marvellous things ; his right hand hath gotten him the victory," The King having passed through the pearly gates of the palace, to his seat upon the great throne, escorted by his ministers, the people were then admitted, one by one, of all grades and conditions, of whatever kindred and tongue, of all aptitudes and instincts, the only passport required being a robe of spotless purity and the impress of the King's seal — the evidence of their fidelity to the King and fitness to dwell in his presence. While I was gazing on this delightful scene I perceived that some of the would-be guests of the King were refused admission through the gates. For what reason I could not at first dis- cover. Their robes appeared white and they THE VICTORIOUS KING. ISO themselves as good as the most excellent of the King's followers, and no one appeared to sus- pect their purity, or question their right to enter but the gate keepers. As my thoughts multiplied and my heart burned within me, I was suddenly struck with a sense of their con- dition. " Wretched mortals !*' I exclaimed : " to what advantage have they consciously and of purpose made righteous efforts to perform their part in the procession ? Their anxious desires to obtain happiness and felicity have been disappointed, apd wretchedness has over- whelmed them!' It affected me greatly to think that the gate keepers should thus oppose them, and my looks were of astonishment and pity. Notwithstandini^, however, the peremptory refusal, the people urged their fitness to enter and pleaded their cause with great earnestness ; but their zeal only contributed to plunge them into deeper affliction. The gate keepers resisted their applications, and thus all access was pre- vented. These officials had been deeply im- pressed with the fact that absolute purity of dress and the impress of the King's seal only would warrant them in admitting any person ; 140 THE VICTORIOUS KING. and that without these qualifications no indi- vidual could enter the gates or expect to receive the least advantage by the King's return. The task was an herculean one, but they entered upon it in earnest; and so successfully did '^ '^y peresvere in it that no one escaped a thorough examination. The result of the operations ot this law of scrutiny was, as I afterwards more completely discovered, to sweep away all hope from the breasts of many applicants for admis- sion, of ever pRrticipating in the enjoyments and pleasures of the palace» As the last person in the procession entered, and the gates were shut, the out-cast ones ere instantly filled with terror and ccnf n. Their groans and shrieks I distinctly heard ; but no person could assist his neighbour, for all had to lament the same calamity. At the pros- pect before them they were seized with unutter- able horror, as a man who suddenly perceives that he is near the brink of a precipice, and is urged forward by an irresistable force. Thus the agonies of despair every moment increased as every moment augmented their distance from the palace. Discovering by attentive observation that the THE VICTORIOUS KING. 141 le robes worn by those out-cast people were of i\ dingy white and more or less polluted, my fcMrs and apprehensions regarding their future wore immediately set at rest. **Ten thousand pities," said I to myself, " these people deluded them- selves in a matter of such vital importance.'* There was a time when their garments were ol snowy whitness, but now they were unfit to be beheld by the King, and the wearers, conse- quently, disqualified to appear before him. True, the garments were to be worn at all times and on all occasions, but due cautiousness would have preserved their ^)urity, and all would have been well. But iilas ! in the tumult of passion, in unbounded indulgence or luxurious ease, in the langor of i dolence or the flutter of the Prince's entertainments, they had become de- filed. Instead of diligently and regularly cultivating inward rectitude, and using the regimen of a strict self-government, they in- dulged in immoral and trifling slanders, and both in their degree disqualified them for the King's service. Now they were unable under any discipline whatever to become what they desired. They had anticipated perpetual enjoy- ment and pleasures without end ; but misery ' t F= 142 THE VICTORIOUS KING. overtook them, and every endeavour to over- come it was unassisted, unaccepted and unre- warded. The lowliest self-abasement laid no foundation for a future condition, for they were now under the control of the Foreign Prince. Had they, in their previous conduct, been actuated by a desire to obtain the King's approbation, no difficulty could have been insurmountable, and their present experience would have been one of the most exalted trans- ports. T could not fail to observe that these people discovered, when /:oo late, that they had deceived their fellow processionists at the risk of imposing upon themselves; that the hypocrisy by which they had deceived their neighbours had also concealed their hearts from their own vie w, and lead them to believe them- selves more virtuous than they really were; and either not attend to ♦^heir imperfections or mistake them for virtues. By this fatal hypo- crisy and self-deceit they had contrived their own misery, au'l were now introduced into the vale of sighs, tears, and bitter self-reproaches. Being afforded an opportunity, I relaxed my attention; a tmin of reflections - was excited Mrithin me, and amidst my meditations I thus soliloquised : THE VICTORIOUS KING. 143 ^ ^'Though the heralds of the King have repeat- edly explained to them, in common with others, the only conditions upon which they were finally to be accepted as faithful subjects of the King, they did not appear in the least to an- ticipate this misfortune. Now they are more than mortified to find that they have in the past rendered themselves the willing victims of covetousness or ambition ; that they could not look beyond an immediate advantage, nor for- bear to seize upon it, though by a way never so indirect ; much less the remote consequences of a steady integrity and the vast benefit and ad- vantages which it would bring them at last. ** Truth and reality have all the advantages of appearance, and many more. If to put on a white robe was of any good service to them ; to have kept it pure would have been far better : for why does any man dissemble, or seem to be that which he is not, but because he thinks it good to have such a quality as he pretends to ? for to counterfeit is to put on the appearance of some real excellency. The best way for a per- son to seem to be any thing, is really to be what he would seem to be. Besides, it is many times as troublesome to make good the pretence of a t 144 THE VICTORIOUS KING. good quality, as to have it ; and if an indivi- dual have it not, it is ten to one but he is discov- ered to want it; then all his pains and labour to seem to have it are lost. There is something unnatural in painting, which a skilful eye will easily discern. '* It is hard ta personate and act a part long ; for where reality is not at the bottom, decep- tion will peep out and betray herself at the very moment she should be most hidden from view. Therefore if any man think it convenient to seem good, let him be so indeed. Sincerity is true wisdom, and hath many advantages over all the fine and artificial ways of deceit and dissimulation, it is much the plainer and easier; it has less of trouble and difiiculty, of entangle- ment and perplexity, of danger and hazard in it. The arts of deceit and cunning do contin- ually grow weaker and less effectual and ser- viceable to them that use them; whereas integ- rity gains strength by use, and the more it is practised the greater is its service. Sincerity is firm and substantial ; there is nothing hollow or unsound in it; and because it is plain and open fears no discovery ; of which the crafty man is always in danger ; and when he thinks THE VICTORIOUS KING. 14^ he walks in the dark, all his preten:;es are so transparent that he that runs may read them.*' Scarcely had I finished soliloquising ere another bcene, of deep interest, arrested my attention. In looking around I saw a number of persons dressed in white robes, running swiftly in the direction of the palace. My sympathy was again brought into active opera- tion, for as I gazed upon them I seen^ed to feel somewhat of the force of that most doleful cry, "Too late !" "Too late !" Onward they pressed with all possible speed ; for the distance was great, and every moment, to their minds, was fraught with the most profound interest. They reached the palace, but, to their dismay, the gates were shut. What a solemn time ! How tremendous the issues ! All hope was gone^ When they reflected that their lot was cast, and could not be reversed, confidence totally forsook them, and they stood for a time trembling and silent, covered with confusion and chilled with horror. What were they to do? Enter, they could not; to go back would be to fall into the hands of the Foreign Prince 1 Of all people they were the most wretched. Old men and women, young men and maidens. T 146 THE VfCTORIOUS KING. all too latx) ! A sense of their condition filled even me, though only a spectator, with intoler- able anguish. I fixed my eyes on them with deepest attention; such, indeed, was mj concern for them that when they wept I could not re- frain from bearing a part in their sorrow. Fain would they have taken up their abode beneath the palace walls and rested there, but even that privilege was denied them. They moaned and groaned in a fit of penitence ; but their penitence and tears could not extricate them from the abyss of misfortune into which they had plunged themselves, and from which they could not rise. Why were they not in the general procession? I asked mvself ; at the same time I was not with- out suspicion. Doubtless they had intended ulti- mate good to themselves, but had mistaken the means. Whatever their views, they have for- feited the friendship of the King, incurred punishment and the loss of that felicity which they are now seeking for, but cannot find. Upon mature observation I found the secret of their failure principally in this, in taking a secret pleasure in the Foreign Prince's evening entertainments, which he had been accustomed THE VICTORIOUS KING. 147 to hold, and to which the puhlic generally were invited. Further, I considered it highly pro- hable that these people were some of those professing allegiance to the King who took a strange delight in reading lampoons and scan- dals, with which the kingdom abounded, and of which the heralds had made frequent com- plaint. It is also said that the heralds found it necessary to caution some against intemper- ate zeal and bigotry, for party, or opinion, in order to avoid the calamities which such pro- duce among mankind ; at the same time alleg- ing that no party were so just and reasonable that a man could follow it in its height and violence, a jd at the same time be innocent. Whatever else they were guilty of, the con- dition of their robes made it evident that they had been allured and lead astray by the amuse- ments offered by the Prince ; notwithstanding the timely warning such rash and unthinking mortals received of the terrible dangers which would most certainly overtake them unless they retired from his vain allurements, and fatal en- chantments. The heralds labored incessantly to prepare their minds to receive with greater relish all such moderate enjoyments as were us THE VICTORIOUS KING. not inconsistent with their state and character ; but their good counsels were unheeded by many, and consequently the pleasure that was to be found in the practice of them unfelt. They re- fused to apprehend that further indulgence would result in the defilement of their robes and the loss of the King's seal. Their minds, however, soon became perverted ; a wrong bias was hung upon them, and a thousand errors and secret faults found admission without being observed or taken notice of. Thus they con- tinued, unconscious of danger, walking in the ways of the Prince, while they fancied them- selves engaged in a course of fidelity to the King. A wise man directed to such actions by something besides renson would have suspected them, have apprehended some concealed evil in them, and been prepared to act with great cautiousness and circumspection. Suddenly a storm was betokened ; the heavens grew dark ; the winds howled with impetuous rage ; whilst the whole plain seemed converted into a deep, solitary valley, over which the darkened atmosphere rested like a thick black mantle. Dismal bowling's resounded through the distant forest, and from every baleful tree THE VICTORIOUS KING. 149 the night raven uttered his dreadful note. All was horror and desolation. They of the Prince's subjects who but a short time previous scoffed at the followers of the King, and viewed the procession with indifference, now lamented their folly, as immediate destruction threatens them, and everyone commenced to cast himself or herself a^x)ut for safety. As I looked upon the terrible scene I felt moved by a sense of their sorrows, and my heart poured out in a flood of tears. My feet shook under me in the intensity of my grief, an I wept aloud, and a voice seemed to say " And these shall go away ! *' Before I had time to compose myself the scene vanished like a bubble, amid the cries of " what shall we do ?" and entreaties for the hills to cover them. But there were no mountains so high, no cav- ern so deep, no place sufficiently remote to afford shelter from the King's displeasure. t In the meantime great activity prevailed in the palace, each individual being employed in locating themselves. It was a pleasing sight. Upon the countenance of each one was a con- sciousness of the King's favor, of security, and a title to all the enjoyments and fruitions of 150 THE VICTORIOUS KING. their rich ahode ; while a fraternity of feeling had perfect exercise. Perfect order and decorum having been' at- tained, the people were formally introiuced to the King, by the judges, as his faithful subjects, and the King addressed them thus : " Well done, good and faithful servants. Tou are now about to participate in the peace- ful reign of your King. For many years past we have breasted an embattled enemy, as my hands, my side and my feet bear faint testimony^ but the seadon of conflict has passed and is suc- ceeded by one of peaceful rest and pure enjoy- ment. I am proud of my subjects — -the wisest and best of all the earth, and my cabinet will bestow upon you all the blessings of security and repose." Then the people shouted " All glory and honor be to the King ;'* such became their emo- tions that their language of love and devotion, blended with the voice of many trumpets, filled the very heavens ; harps and other musical instruments were also made to pour forth their sweet strains with delightful effect. I had never before heard anything to equal it in any respect. It was music such as the skill THE VICTORIOUS KING. 151 [ of human taste had never before been able to invent, or the harmony of instruments or voices given utterance to. I was so entirely over- whelmed by its sublimity and grandeur that for a time I knew not where I was. When I came to myself the scene had changed. A deathless silence and gloominess pervaded the whole region without the palace ; but the rejoicings of the people within con- tinued. THE END.