"but they are much nearer to the Celestial City than this place is. And sometimes we have most delightful views of them."
So Christian consented and stayed.
Towards noon they led him up to the top of the house and bade him look southward. He did so, and lo! at a great distance he saw a most beautiful land. It was a mountainous country, with delightful valleys and fields. There were green woods and pleasant vineyards. There were fruits of all sorts, and flowers of every hue. There were springs and fountains, bright waterfalls, and quiet brooks.
"What is the name of that beautiful country?" asked Christian.
"It is called Immanuel's Land," they answered; "and all pilgrims are as welcome there as they are at this our House Beautiful."
Then they led him down again into the armory. And they clothed him from head to foot in stout armor. They put a shield in his hand, and a sharp sword in his belt; and on his head they fitted a helmet of rarest workmanship.
He was now ready to go forward on his journey; and the maidens went with him to the gate.
