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diff --git a/10679-h/10679-h.htm b/10679-h/10679-h.htm new file mode 100644 index 0000000..64a5998 --- /dev/null +++ b/10679-h/10679-h.htm @@ -0,0 +1,1354 @@ +<!DOCTYPE HTML PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.01 Transitional//EN"> +<html> +<head> +<meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=UTF-8"> +<title>The Project Gutenberg eBook of The Story of the Other Wise Man, by Henry van Dyke</title> + <style type="text/css"> + <!-- + * { font-family: Times; + } + P { text-indent: 1em; + margin-top: .75em; + font-size: 12pt; + text-align: justify; + margin-bottom: .75em; } + H1,H2,H3,H4,H5,H6 { text-align: center; } + HR { width: 33%; } + hr.full { width: 100%; } + .toc { margin-left: 15%; font-size: 10pt; margin-bottom: 0em;} + CENTER { padding: 10px;} + a:link {color:blue; + text-decoration:none} + link {color:blue; + text-decoration:none} + a:visited {color:blue; + text-decoration:none} + a:hover {color:red} + pre {font-size:10pt} + // --> + </style> +</head> +<body> +<div>*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 10679 ***</div> +<h1>The Project Gutenberg eBook, The Story of the Other Wise Man, by Henry van +Dyke</h1> + +</pre> + + Editorial note: While the original illustrations are listed, none are included in this e-book.<br> + <br> + <hr class="full"> + <p> + + </p> + + +<h4>There are several editions of this ebook in the Project Gutenberg collection. Various characteristics of each ebook are listed to aid in selecting the preferred file.<br>Click on any of the filenumbers below to quickly view each ebook. +</h4> + + +<table summary="" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto" cellpadding="4" border="3"> + +<tr><td> + <b><a href="https://www.gutenberg.org/files/19608/19608-h/19608-h.htm"> +19608</a> </b> </td><td>(Illustrated HTML file) +</td></tr> + +<tr><td> + <b><a href="https://www.gutenberg.org/files/10679/10679-h/10679-h.htm"> +10679</a></b></td><td>(Plain html file) +</td></tr> + +<tr><td> + <b><a href="https://www.gutenberg.org/files/16291/16291-h/16291-h.htm"> +16291</a></b> </td><td>(Plain html file) +</td></tr> + +</table> + + <h1> + THE STORY OF THE OTHER WISE MAN + </h1> + <center> + <b>BY</b> + </center> + <center> + <b>HENRY VAN DYKE</b> + </center><a name="2H_TOC"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + <p> + + </p> + <hr> + <p> + + </p> + <h2> + CONTENTS + </h2> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#2H_4_01">INTRODUCTION</a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#2H_4_02">THE SIGN IN THE SKY</a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#2H_4_03">BY THE WATERS OF BABYLON</a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#2H_4_04">FOR THE SAKE OF A LITTLE CHILD</a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#2H_4_05">IN THE HIDDEN WAY OF SORROW</a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#2H_4_06">A PEARL OF GREAT PRICE</a> + </p><a name="2H_ILL"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + <p> + + </p> +<hr> + <p> + + </p> + <h2> + ILLUSTRATIONS + </h2> + <center> + "'IT IS THE SIGN,' HE SAID"<br> + "HE CAUGHT IT UP AND READ"<br> + "'THERE IS NONE HERE SAVE ME"'<br> + "HE HEALED THE SICK"<br> + "THE OLD MAN FOLLOWED THE MULTITUDE"<br> + "THE OTHER WISE MAN HAD FOUND THE KING" + </center><a name="2H_4_01"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + <p> + + </p> +<hr> + <p> + + </p> + <p> + + </p> + <h2> + THE STORY OF OTHER WISE MAN. + </h2> + <pre> + <i>Who seeks for heaven alone to save his soul, + May keep the path, but will not reach the goal; + While he who walks in love may wander far, + Yet God will bring him where the blessed are.</i> +</pre> + <p> + You know the story of the Three Wise Men of the East, and how + they travelled from far away to offer their gifts at the + manger-cradle in Bethlehem. But have you ever heard the story + of the Other Wise Man, who also saw the star in its rising, + and set out to follow it, yet did not arrive with his + brethren in the presence of the young child Jesus? Of the + great desire of this fourth pilgrim, and how it was denied, + yet accomplished in the denial; of his many wanderings and + the probations of his soul; of the long way of his seeking, + and the strange way of his finding, the One whom he + sought—I would tell the tale as I have heard fragments + of it in the Hall of Dreams, in the palace of the Heart of + Man. + </p><a name="2H_4_02"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + <p> + + </p> + <p> + + </p> + <p> + + </p> + <p> + + </p> + <h2> + THE SIGN IN THE SKY + </h2> + <p> + In the days when Augustus Caesar was master of many kings and + Herod reigned in Jerusalem, there lived in the city of + Ecbatana, among the mountains of Persia, a certain man named + Artaban, the Median. His house stood close to the outermost + of the seven walls which encircled the royal treasury. From + his roof he could look over the rising battlements of black + and white and crimson and blue and red and silver and gold, + to the hill where the summer palace of the Parthian emperors + glittered like a jewel in a sevenfold crown. + </p> + <p> + Around the dwelling of Artaban spread a fair garden, a tangle + of flowers and fruit-trees, watered by a score of streams + descending from the slopes of Mount Orontes, and made musical + by innumerable birds. But all colour was lost in the soft and + odorous darkness of the late September night, and all sounds + were hushed in the deep charm of its silence, save the + plashing of the water, like a voice half sobbing and half + laughing under the shadows. High above the trees a dim glow + of light shone through the curtained arches of the upper + chamber, where the master of the house was holding council + with his friends. + </p> + <p> + He stood by the doorway to greet his guests—a tall, + dark man of about forty years, with brilliant eyes set near + together under his broad brow, and firm lines graven around + his fine, thin lips; the brow of a dreamer and the mouth of a + soldier, a man of sensitive feeling but inflexible + will—one of those who, in whatever age they may live, + are born for inward conflict and a life of quest. + </p> + <p> + His robe was of pure white wool, thrown over a tunic of silk; + and a white, pointed cap, with long lapels at the sides, + rested on his flowing black hair. It was the dress of the + ancient priesthood of the Magi, called the fire-worshippers. + </p> + <p> + "Welcome!" he said, in his low, pleasant voice, as one after + another entered the room—"welcome, Abdus; peace be with + you, Rhodaspes and Tigranes, and with you my father, Abgarus. + You are all welcome, and this house grows bright with the joy + of your presence." + </p> + <p> + There were nine of the men, differing widely in age, but + alike in the richness of their dress of many-coloured silks, + and in the massive golden collars around their necks, marking + them as Parthian nobles, and in the winged circles of gold + resting upon their breasts, the sign of the followers of + Zoroaster. + </p> + <p> + They took their places around a small black altar at the end + of the room, where a tiny flame was burning. Artaban, + standing beside it, and waving a barsom of thin tamarisk + branches above the fire, fed it with dry sticks of pine and + fragrant oils. Then he began the ancient chant of the Yasna, + and the voices of his companions joined in the beautiful hymn + to Ahura-Mazda: + </p> + <pre> +We worship the Spirit Divine, + all wisdom and goodness possessing, +Surrounded by Holy Immortals, + the givers of bounty and blessing. +We joy in the works of His hands, + His truth and His power confessing. +</pre> + <pre> +We praise all the things that are pure, + for these are His only Creation; +The thoughts that are true, and the words + and deeds that have won approbation; +These are supported by Him, + and for these we make adoration. +</pre> + <pre> +Hear us, O Mazda! Thou livest + in truth and in heavenly gladness; +Cleanse us from falsehood, and keep us + from evil and bondage to badness; +Pour out the light and the joy of Thy life + on our darkness and sadness. +</pre> + <pre> +Shine on our gardens and fields, + Shine on our working and weaving; +Shine on the whole race of man, + Believing and unbelieving; + Shine on us now through the night, + Shine on us now in Thy might, +The flame of our holy love + and the song of our worship receiving. +</pre> + <p> + The fire rose with the chant, throbbing as if it were made of + musical flame, until it cast a bright illumination through + the whole apartment, revealing its simplicity and splendour. + </p> + <p> + The floor was laid with tiles of dark blue veined with white; + pilasters of twisted silver stood out against the blue walls; + the clearstory of round-arched windows above them was hung + with azure silk; the vaulted ceiling was a pavement of + sapphires, like the body of heaven in its clearness, sown + with silver stars. From the four corners of the roof hung + four golden magic-wheels, called the tongues of the gods. At + the eastern end, behind the altar, there were two dark-red + pillars of porphyry; above them a lintel of the same stone, + on which was carved the figure of a winged archer, with his + arrow set to the string and his bow drawn. + </p> + <p> + The doorway between the pillars, which opened upon the + terrace of the roof, was covered with a heavy curtain of the + colour of a ripe pomegranate, embroidered with innumerable + golden rays shooting upward from the floor. In effect the + room was like a quiet, starry night, all azure and silver, + flushed in the East with rosy promise of the dawn. It was, as + the house of a man should be, an expression of the character + and spirit of the master. + </p> + <p> + He turned to his friends when the song was ended, and invited + them to be seated on the divan at the western end of the + room. + </p> + <p> + "You have come to-night," said he, looking around the circle, + "at my call, as the faithful scholars of Zoroaster, to renew + your worship and rekindle your faith in the God of Purity, + even as this fire has been rekindled on the altar. We worship + not the fire, but Him of whom it is the chosen symbol, + because it is the purest of all created things. It speaks to + us of one who is Light and Truth. Is it not so, my father?" + </p> + <p> + "It is well said, my son," answered the venerable Abgarus. + "The enlightened are never idolaters. They lift the veil of + the form and go in to the shrine of the reality, and new + light and truth are coming to them continually through the + old symbols." "Hear me, then, my father and my friends," said + Artaban, very quietly, "while I tell you of the new light and + truth that have come to me through the most ancient of all + signs. We have searched the secrets of nature together, and + studied the healing virtues of water and fire and the plants. + We have read also the books of prophecy in which the future + is dimly foretold in words that are hard to understand. But + the highest of all learning is the knowledge of the stars. To + trace their courses is to untangle the threads of the mystery + of life from the beginning to the end. If we could follow + them perfectly, nothing would be hidden from us. But is not + our knowledge of them still incomplete? Are there not many + stars still beyond our horizon—lights that are known + only to the dwellers in the far south-land, among the + spice-trees of Punt and the gold mines of Ophir?" + </p> + <p> + There was a murmur of assent among the listeners. + </p> + <p> + "The stars," said Tigranes, "are the thoughts of the Eternal. + They are numberless. But the thoughts of man can be counted, + like the years of his life. The wisdom of the Magi is the + greatest of all wisdoms on earth, because it knows its own + ignorance. And that is the secret of power. We keep men + always looking and waiting for a new sunrise. But we + ourselves know that the darkness is equal to the light, and + that the conflict between them will never be ended." + </p> + <p> + "That does not satisfy me," answered Artaban, "for, if the + waiting must be endless, if there could be no fulfilment of + it, then it would not be wisdom to look and wait. We should + become like those new teachers of the Greeks, who say that + there is no truth, and that the only wise men are those who + spend their lives in discovering and exposing the lies that + have been believed in the world. But the new sunrise will + certainly dawn in the appointed time. Do not our own books + tell us that this will come to pass, and that men will see + the brightness of a great light?" + </p> + <p> + "That is true," said the voice of Abgarus; "every faithful + disciple of Zoroaster knows the prophecy of the Avesta and + carries the word in his heart. 'In that day Sosiosh the + Victorious shall arise out of the number of the prophets in + the east country. Around him shall shine a mighty brightness, + and he shall make life everlasting, incorruptible, and + immortal, and the dead shall rise again.'" + </p> + <p> + "This is a dark saying," said Tigranes, "and it may be that + we shall never understand it. It is better to consider the + things that are near at hand, and to increase the influence + of the Magi in their own country, rather than to look for one + who may be a stranger, and to whom we must resign our power." + </p> + <p> + The others seemed to approve these words. There was a silent + feeling of agreement manifest among them; their looks + responded with that indefinable expression which always + follows when a speaker has uttered the thought that has been + slumbering in the hearts of his listeners. But Artaban turned + to Abgarus with a glow on his face, and said: + </p> + <p> + "My father, I have kept this prophecy in the secret place of + my soul. Religion without a great hope would be like an altar + without a living fire. And now the flame has burned more + brightly, and by the light of it I have read other words + which also have come from the fountain of Truth, and speak + yet more clearly of the rising of the Victorious One in his + brightness." + </p> + <p> + He drew from the breast of his tunic two small rolls of fine + linen, with writing upon them, and unfolded them carefully + upon his knee. + </p> + <p> + "In the years that are lost in the past, long before our + fathers came into the land of Babylon, there were wise men in + Chaldea, from whom the first of the Magi learned the secret + of the heavens. And of these Balaam the son of Beor was one + of the mightiest. Hear the words of his prophecy: 'There + shall come a star out of Jacob, and a sceptre shall arise out + of Israel.'" + </p> + <p> + The lips of Tigranes drew downward with contempt, as he said: + </p> + <p> + "Judah was a captive by the waters of Babylon, and the sons + of Jacob were in bondage to our kings. The tribes of Israel + are scattered through the mountains like lost sheep, and from + the remnant that dwells in Judea under the yoke of Rome + neither star nor sceptre shall arise." + </p> + <p> + "And yet," answered Artaban, "it was the Hebrew Daniel, the + mighty searcher of dreams, the counsellor of kings, the wise + Belteshazzar, who was most honored and beloved of our great + King Cyrus. A prophet of sure things and a reader of the + thoughts of God, Daniel proved himself to our people. And + these are the words that he wrote." (Artaban read from the + second roll:) "'Know, therefore, and understand that from the + going forth of the commandment to restore Jerusalem, unto the + Anointed One, the Prince, the time shall be seven and + threescore and two weeks.'" + </p> + <p> + "But, my son," said Abgarus, doubtfully, "these are mystical + numbers. Who can interpret them, or who can find the key that + shall unlock their meaning?" + </p> + <p> + Artaban answered: "It has been shown to me and to my three + companions among the Magi—Caspar, Melchior, and + Balthazar. We have searched the ancient tablets of Chaldea + and computed the time. It falls in this year. We have studied + the sky, and in the spring of the year we saw two of the + greatest stars draw near together in the sign of the Fish, + which is the house of the Hebrews. We also saw a new star + there, which shone for one night and then vanished. Now again + the two great planets are meeting. This night is their + conjunction. My three brothers are watching at the ancient + temple of the Seven Spheres, at Borsippa, in Babylonia, and I + am watching here. If the star shines again, they will wait + ten days for me at the temple, and then we will set out + together for Jerusalem, to see and worship the promised one + who shall be born King of Israel. I believe the sign will + come. I have made ready for the journey. I have sold my house + and my possessions, and bought these three jewels—a + sapphire, a ruby, and a pearl—to carry them as tribute + to the King. And I ask you to go with me on the pilgrimage, + that we may have joy together in finding the Prince who is + worthy to be served." + </p> + <p> + While he was speaking he thrust his hand into the inmost fold + of his girdle and drew out three great gems—one blue as + a fragment of the night sky, one redder than a ray of + sunrise, and one as pure as the peak of a snow mountain at + twilight—and laid them on the outspread linen scrolls + before him. + </p> + <p> + But his friends looked on with strange and alien eyes. A veil + of doubt and mistrust came over their faces, like a fog + creeping up from the marshes to hide the hills. They glanced + at each other with looks of wonder and pity, as those who + have listened to incredible sayings, the story of a wild + vision, or the proposal of an impossible enterprise. + </p> + <p> + At last Tigranes said: "Artaban, this is a vain dream. It + comes from too much looking upon the stars and the cherishing + of lofty thoughts. It would be wiser to spend the time in + gathering money for the new fire-temple at Chala. No king + will ever rise from the broken race of Israel, and no end + will ever come to the eternal strife of light and darkness. + He who looks for it is a chaser of shadows. Farewell." + </p> + <p> + And another said: "Artaban, I have no knowledge of these + things, and my office as guardian of the royal treasure binds + me here. The quest is not for me. But if thou must follow it, + fare thee well." + </p> + <p> + And another said: "In my house there sleeps a new bride, and + I cannot leave her nor take her with me on this strange + journey. This quest is not for me. But may thy steps be + prospered wherever thou goest. So, farewell." + </p> + <p> + And another said: "I am ill and unfit for hardship, but there + is a man among my servants whom I will send with thee when + thou goest, to bring me word how thou farest." + </p> + <p> + But Abgarus, the oldest and the one who loved Artaban the + best, lingered after the others had gone, and said, gravely: + "My son, it may be that the light of truth is in this sign + that has appeared in the skies, and then it will surely lead + to the Prince and the mighty brightness. Or it may be that it + is only a shadow of the light, as Tigranes has said, and then + he who follows it will have only a long pilgrimage and an + empty search. But it is better to follow even the shadow of + the best than to remain content with the worst. And those who + would see wonderful things must often be ready to travel + alone. I am too old for this journey, but my heart shall be a + companion of the pilgrimage day and night, and I shall know + the end of thy quest. Go in peace." + </p> + <p> + So one by one they went out of the azure chamber with its + silver stars, and Artaban was left in solitude. + </p> + <p> + He gathered up the jewels and replaced them in his girdle. + For a long time he stood and watched the flame that flickered + and sank upon the altar. Then he crossed the hall, lifted the + heavy curtain, and passed out between the dull red pillars of + porphyry to the terrace on the roof. + </p> + <p> + The shiver that thrills through the earth ere she rouses from + her night sleep had already begun, and the cool wind that + heralds the daybreak was drawing downward from the lofty + snow-traced ravines of Mount Orontes. Birds, half awakened, + crept and chirped among the rustling leaves, and the smell of + ripened grapes came in brief wafts from the arbours. + </p> + <p> + Far over the eastern plain a white mist stretched like a + lake. But where the distant peak of Zagros serrated the + western horizon the sky was clear. Jupiter and Saturn rolled + together like drops of lambent flame about to blend in one. + </p> + <p> + As Artaban watched them, behold, an azure spark was born out + of the darkness beneath, rounding itself with purple + splendours to a crimson sphere, and spiring upward through + rays of saffron and orange into a point of white radiance. + Tiny and infinitely remote, yet perfect in every part, it + pulsated in the enormous vault as if the three jewels in the + Magian's breast had mingled and been transformed into a + living heart of light. He bowed his head. He covered his brow + with his hands. + </p> + <p> + "It is the sign," he said. "The King is coming, and I will go + to meet him." + </p><a name="2H_4_03"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + <p> + + </p> + <p> + + </p> + <p> + + </p> + <p> + + </p> + <h2> + BY THE WATERS OF BABYLON + </h2> + <p> + All night long Vasda, the swiftest of Artaban's horses, had + been waiting, saddled and bridled, in her stall, pawing the + ground impatiently, and shaking her bit as if she shared the + eagerness of her master's purpose, though she knew not its + meaning. + </p> + <p> + Before the birds had fully roused to their strong, high, + joyful chant of morning song, before the white mist had begun + to lift lazily from the plain, the other wise man was in the + saddle, riding swiftly along the high-road, which skirted the + base of Mount Orontes, westward. + </p> + <p> + How close, how intimate is the comradeship between a man and + his favourite horse on a long journey. It is a silent, + comprehensive friendship, an intercourse beyond the need of + words. They drink at the same way-side springs, and sleep + under the same guardian stars. They are conscious together of + the subduing spell of nightfall and the quickening joy of + daybreak. The master shares his evening meal with his hungry + companion, and feels the soft, moist lips caressing the palm + of his hand as they close over the morsel of bread. In the + gray dawn he is roused from his bivouac by the gentle stir of + a warm, sweet breath over his sleeping face, and looks up + into the eyes of his faithful fellow-traveller, ready and + waiting for the toil of the day. Surely, unless he is a pagan + and an unbeliever, by whatever name he calls upon his God, he + will thank Him for this voiceless sympathy, this dumb + affection, and his morning prayer will embrace a double + blessing—God bless us both, and keep our feet from + falling and our souls from death! + </p> + <p> + And then, through the keen morning air, the swift hoofs beat + their spirited music along the road, keeping time to the + pulsing of two hearts that are moved with the same eager + desire—to conquer space, to devour the distance, to + attain the goal of the journey. + </p> + <p> + Artaban must indeed ride wisely and well if he would keep the + appointed hour with the other Magi; for the route was a + hundred and fifty parasangs, and fifteen was the utmost that + he could travel in a day. But he knew Vasda's strength, and + pushed forward without anxiety, making the fixed distance + every day, though he must travel late into the night, and in + the morning long before sunrise. + </p> + <p> + He passed along the brown slopes of Mt. Orontes, furrowed by + the rocky courses of a hundred torrents. + </p> + <p> + He crossed the level plains of the Nisaeans, where the famous + herds of horses, feeding in the wide pastures, tossed their + heads at Vasda's approach, and galloped away with a thunder + of many hoofs, and flocks of wild birds rose suddenly from + the swampy meadows, wheeling in great circles with a shining + flutter of innumerable wings and shrill cries of surprise. + </p> + <p> + He traversed the fertile fields of Concabar, where the dust + from the threshing-floors filled the air with a golden mist, + half hiding the huge temple of Astarte with its four hundred + pillars. + </p> + <p> + At Baghistan, among the rich gardens watered by fountains + from the rock, he looked up at the mountain thrusting its + immense rugged brow out over the road, and saw the figure of + King Darius trampling upon his fallen foes, and the proud + list of his wars and conquests graven high upon the face of + the eternal cliff. + </p> + <p> + Over many a cold and desolate pass, crawling painfully across + the wind-swept shoulders of the hills; down many a black + mountain-gorge, where the river roared and raced before him + like a savage guide; across many a smiling vale, with + terraces of yellow limestone full of vines and fruit-trees; + through the oak-groves of Carine and the dark Gates of + Zagros, walled in by precipices; into the ancient city of + Chala, where the people of Samaria had been kept in captivity + long ago; and out again by the mighty portal, riven through + the encircling hills, where he saw the image of the High + Priest of the Magi sculptured on the wall of rock, with hand + uplifted as if to bless the centuries of pilgrims; past the + entrance of the narrow defile, filled from end to end with + orchards of peaches and figs, through which the river Gyndes + foamed down to meet him; over the broad rice-fields, where + the autumnal vapours spread their deathly mists; following + along the course of the river, under tremulous shadows of + poplar and tamarind, among the lower hills; and out upon the + flat plain, where the road ran straight as an arrow through + the stubble-fields and parched meadows; past the city of + Ctesiphon, where the Parthian emperors reigned, and the vast + metropolis of Seleucia which Alexander built; across the + swirling floods of Tigris and the many channels of Euphrates, + flowing yellow through the corn-lands—Artaban pressed + onward until he arrived, at nightfall of the tenth day, + beneath the shattered walls of populous Babylon. + </p> + <p> + Vasda was almost spent, and he would gladly have turned into + the city to find rest and refreshment for himself and for + her. But he knew that it was three hours' journey yet to the + Temple of the Seven Spheres, and he must reach the place by + midnight if he would find his comrades waiting. So he did not + halt, but rode steadily across the stubble-fields. + </p> + <p> + A grove of date-palms made an island of gloom in the pale + yellow sea. As she passed into the shadow Vasda slackened her + pace, and began to pick her way more carefully. + </p> + <p> + Near the farther end of the darkness an access of caution + seemed to fall upon her. She scented some danger or + difficulty; it was not in her heart to fly from it—only + to be prepared for it, and to meet it wisely, as a good horse + should do. The grove was close and silent as the tomb; not a + leaf rustled, not a bird sang. + </p> + <p> + She felt her steps before her delicately, carrying her head + low, and sighing now and then with apprehension. At last she + gave a quick breath of anxiety and dismay, and stood + stock-still, quivering in every muscle, before a dark object + in the shadow of the last palm-tree. + </p> + <p> + Artaban dismounted. The dim starlight revealed the form of a + man lying across the road. His humble dress and the outline + of his haggard face showed that he was probably one of the + poor Hebrew exiles who still dwelt in great numbers in the + vicinity. His pallid skin, dry and yellow as parchment, bore + the mark of the deadly fever which ravaged the marsh-lands in + autumn. The chill of death was in his lean hand, and, as + Artaban released it, the arm fell back inertly upon the + motionless breast. + </p> + <p> + He turned away with a thought of pity, consigning the body to + that strange burial which the Magians deem most + fitting—the funeral of the desert, from which the kites + and vultures rise on dark wings, and the beasts of prey slink + furtively away, leaving only a heap of white bones in the + sand. + </p> + <p> + But, as he turned, a long, faint, ghostly sigh came from the + man's lips. The brown, bony fingers closed convulsively on + the hem of the Magian's robe and held him fast. + </p> + <p> + Artaban's heart leaped to his throat, not with fear, but with + a dumb resentment at the importunity of this blind delay. How + could he stay here in the darkness to minister to a dying + stranger? What claim had this unknown fragment of human life + upon his compassion or his service? If he lingered but for an + hour he could hardly reach Borsippa at the appointed time. + His companions would think he had given up the journey. They + would go without him. He would lose his quest. + </p> + <p> + But if he went on now, the man would surely die. If he + stayed, life might be restored. His spirit throbbed and + fluttered with the urgency of the crisis. Should he risk the + great reward of his divine faith for the sake of a single + deed of human love? Should he turn aside, if only for a + moment, from the following of the star, to give a cup of cold + water to a poor, perishing Hebrew? + </p> + <p> + "God of truth and purity," he prayed, "direct me in the holy + path, the way of wisdom which Thou only knowest." + </p> + <p> + Then he turned back to the sick man. Loosening the grasp of + his hand, he carried him to a little mound at the foot of the + palm-tree. He unbound the thick folds of the turban and + opened the garment above the sunken breast. He brought water + from one of the small canals near by, and moistened the + sufferer's brow and mouth. He mingled a draught of one of + those simple but potent remedies which he carried always in + his girdle—for the Magians were physicians as well as + astrologers—and poured it slowly between the colourless + lips. Hour after hour he labored as only a skilful healer of + disease can do; and, at last, the man's strength returned; he + sat up and looked about him. + </p> + <p> + "Who art thou?" he said, in the rude dialect of the country, + "and why hast thou sought me here to bring back my life?" + </p> + <p> + "I am Artaban the Magian, of the city of Ecbatana, and I am + going to Jerusalem in search of one who is to be born King of + the Jews, a great Prince and Deliverer for all men. I dare + not delay any longer upon my journey, for the caravan that + has waited for me may depart without me. But see, here is all + that I have left of bread and wine, and here is a potion of + healing herbs. When thy strength is restored thou can'st find + the dwellings of the Hebrews among the houses of Babylon." + </p> + <p> + The Jew raised his trembling hands solemnly to heaven. + </p> + <p> + "Now may the God of Abraham and Isaac and Jacob bless and + prosper the journey of the merciful, and bring him in peace + to his desired haven. But stay; I have nothing to give thee + in return—only this: that I can tell thee where the + Messiah must be sought. For our prophets have said that he + should be born not in Jerusalem, but in Bethlehem of Judah. + May the Lord bring thee in safety to that place, because thou + hast had pity upon the sick." + </p> + <p> + It was already long past midnight. Artaban rode in haste, and + Vasda, restored by the brief rest, ran eagerly through the + silent plain and swam the channels of the river. She put + forth the remnant of her strength, and fled over the ground + like a gazelle. + </p> + <p> + But the first beam of the sun sent her shadow before her as + she entered upon the final stadium of the journey, and the + eyes of Artaban anxiously scanning the great mound of Nimrod + and the Temple of the Seven Spheres, could discern no trace + of his friends. + </p> + <p> + The many-coloured terraces of black and orange and red and + yellow and green and blue and white, shattered by the + convulsions of nature, and crumbling under the repeated blows + of human violence, still glittered like a ruined rainbow in + the morning light. + </p> + <p> + Artaban rode swiftly around the hill. He dismounted and + climbed to the highest terrace, looking out towards the west. + </p> + <p> + The huge desolation of the marshes stretched away to the + horizon and the border of the desert. Bitterns stood by the + stagnant pools and jackals skulked through the low bushes; + but there was no sign of the caravan of the wise men, far or + near. + </p> + <p> + At the edge of the terrace he saw a little cairn of broken + bricks, and under them a piece of parchment. He caught it up + and read: "We have waited past the midnight, and can delay no + longer. We go to find the King. Follow us across the desert." + Artaban sat down upon the ground and covered his head in + despair. + </p> + <p> + "How can I cross the desert," said he, "with no food and with + a spent horse? I must return to Babylon, sell my sapphire, + and buy a train of camels, and provision for the journey. I + may never overtake my friends. Only God the merciful knows + whether I shall not lose the sight of the King because I + tarried to show mercy." + </p><a name="2H_4_04"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + <p> + + </p> + <p> + + </p> + <p> + + </p> + <p> + + </p> + <h2> + FOR THE SAKE OF A LITTLE CHILD + </h2> + <p> + There was a silence in the Hall of Dreams, where I was + listening to the story of the other wise man. And through + this silence I saw, but very dimly, his figure passing over + the dreary undulations of the desert, high upon the back of + his camel, rocking steadily onward like a ship over the + waves. + </p> + <p> + The land of death spread its cruel net around him. The stony + wastes bore no fruit but briers and thorns. The dark ledges + of rock thrust themselves above the surface here and there, + like the bones of perished monsters. Arid and inhospitable + mountain ranges rose before him, furrowed with dry channels + of ancient torrents, white and ghastly as scars on the face + of nature. Shifting hills of treacherous sand were heaped + like tombs along the horizon. By day, the fierce heat pressed + its intolerable burden on the quivering air; and no living + creature moved, on the dumb, swooning earth, but tiny jerboas + scuttling through the parched bushes, or lizards vanishing in + the clefts of the rock. By night the jackals prowled and + barked in the distance, and the lion made the black ravines + echo with his hollow roaring, while a bitter, blighting chill + followed the fever of the day. Through heat and cold, the + Magian moved steadily onward. + </p> + <p> + Then I saw the gardens and orchards of Damascus, watered by + the streams of Abana and Pharpar, with their sloping swards + inlaid with bloom, and their thickets of myrrh and roses. I + saw also the long, snowy ridge of Hermon, and the dark groves + of cedars, and the valley of the Jordan, and the blue waters + of the Lake of Galilee, and the fertile plain of Esdraelon, + and the hills of Ephraim, and the highlands of Judah. Through + all these I followed the figure of Artaban moving steadily + onward, until he arrived at Bethlehem. And it was the third + day after the three wise men had come to that place and had + found Mary and Joseph, with the young child, Jesus, and had + laid their gifts of gold and frankincense and myrrh at his + feet. + </p> + <p> + Then the other wise man drew near, weary, but full of hope, + bearing his ruby and his pearl to offer to the King. "For now + at last," he said, "I shall surely find him, though it be + alone, and later than my brethren. This is the place of which + the Hebrew exile told me that the prophets had spoken, and + here I shall behold the rising of the great light. But I must + inquire about the visit of my brethren, and to what house the + star directed them, and to whom they presented their + tribute." + </p> + <p> + The streets of the village seemed to be deserted, and Artaban + wondered whether the men had all gone up to the hill-pastures + to bring down their sheep. From the open door of a low stone + cottage he heard the sound of a woman's voice singing softly. + He entered and found a young mother hushing her baby to rest. + She told him of the strangers from the far East who had + appeared in the village three days ago, and how they said + that a star had guided them to the place where Joseph of + Nazareth was lodging with his wife and her new-born child, + and how they had paid reverence to the child and given him + many rich gifts. + </p> + <p> + "But the travellers disappeared again," she continued, "as + suddenly as they had come. We were afraid at the strangeness + of their visit. We could not understand it. The man of + Nazareth took the babe and his mother and fled away that same + night secretly, and it was whispered that they were going far + away to Egypt. Ever since, there has been a spell upon the + village; something evil hangs over it. They say that the + Roman soldiers are coming from Jerusalem to force a new tax + from us, and the men have driven the flocks and herds far + back among the hills, and hidden themselves to escape it." + </p> + <p> + Artaban listened to her gentle, timid speech, and the child + in her arms looked up in his face and smiled, stretching out + its rosy hands to grasp at the winged circle of gold on his + breast. His heart warmed to the touch. It seemed like a + greeting of love and trust to one who had journeyed long in + loneliness and perplexity, fighting with his own doubts and + fears, and following a light that was veiled in clouds. + </p> + <p> + "Might not this child have been the promised Prince?" he + asked within himself, as he touched its soft cheek. "Kings + have been born ere now in lowlier houses than this, and the + favourite of the stars may rise even from a cottage. But it + has not seemed good to the God of wisdom to reward my search + so soon and so easily. The one whom I seek has gone before + me; and now I must follow the King to Egypt." + </p> + <p> + The young mother laid the babe in its cradle, and rose to + minister to the wants of the strange guest that fate had + brought into her house. She set food before him, the plain + fare of peasants, but willingly offered, and therefore full + of refreshment for the soul as well as for the body. Artaban + accepted it gratefully; and, as he ate, the child fell into a + happy slumber, and murmured sweetly in its dreams, and a + great peace filled the quiet room. + </p> + <p> + But suddenly there came the noise of a wild confusion and + uproar in the streets of the village, a shrieking and wailing + of women's voices, a clangor of brazen trumpets and a + clashing of swords, and a desperate cry: "The soldiers! the + soldiers of Herod! They are killing our children." + </p> + <p> + The young mother's face grew white with terror. She clasped + her child to her bosom, and crouched motionless in the + darkest corner of the room, covering him with the folds of + her robe, lest he should wake and cry. + </p> + <p> + But Artaban went quickly and stood in the doorway of the + house. His broad shoulders filled the portal from side to + side, and the peak of his white cap all but touched the + lintel. + </p> + <p> + The soldiers came hurrying down the street with bloody hands + and dripping swords. At the sight of the stranger in his + imposing dress they hesitated with surprise. The captain of + the band approached the threshold to thrust him aside. But + Artaban did not stir. His face was as calm as though he were + watching the stars, and in his eyes there burned that steady + radiance before which even the half-tamed hunting leopard + shrinks, and the fierce bloodhound pauses in his leap. He + held the soldier silently for an instant, and then said in a + low voice: + </p> + <p> + "There is no one in this place but me, and I am waiting to + give this jewel to the prudent captain who will leave me in + peace." + </p> + <p> + He showed the ruby, glistening in the hollow of his hand like + a great drop of blood. + </p> + <p> + The captain was amazed at the splendour of the gem. The + pupils of his eyes expanded with desire, and the hard lines + of greed wrinkled around his lips. He stretched out his hand + and took the ruby. + </p> + <p> + "March on!" he cried to his men, "there is no child here. The + house is still." + </p> + <p> + The clamour and the clang of arms passed down the street as + the headlong fury of the chase sweeps by the secret covert + where the trembling deer is hidden. Artaban re-entered the + cottage. He turned his face to the east and prayed: + </p> + <p> + "God of truth, forgive my sin! I have said the thing that is + not, to save the life of a child. And two of my gifts are + gone. I have spent for man that which was meant for God. + Shall I ever be worthy to see the face of the King?" + </p> + <p> + But the voice of the woman, weeping for joy in the shadow + behind him, said very gently: + </p> + <p> + "Because thou hast saved the life of my little one, may the + Lord bless thee and keep thee; the Lord make His face to + shine upon thee and be gracious unto thee; the Lord lift up + His countenance upon thee and give thee peace." + </p><a name="2H_4_05"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + <p> + + </p> + <p> + + </p> + <p> + + </p> + <p> + + </p> + <h2> + IN THE HIDDEN WAY OF SORROW + </h2> + <p> + Then again there was a silence in the Hall of Dreams, deeper + and more mysterious than the first interval, and I understood + that the years of Artaban were flowing very swiftly under the + stillness of that clinging fog, and I caught only a glimpse, + here and there, of the river of his life shining through the + shadows that concealed its course. + </p> + <p> + I saw him moving among the throngs of men in populous Egypt, + seeking everywhere for traces of the household that had come + down from Bethlehem, and finding them under the spreading + sycamore-trees of Heliopolis, and beneath the walls of the + Roman fortress of New Babylon beside the Nile—traces so + faint and dim that they vanished before him continually, as + footprints on the hard river-sand glisten for a moment with + moisture and then disappear. + </p> + <p> + I saw him again at the foot of the pyramids, which lifted + their sharp points into the intense saffron glow of the + sunset sky, changeless monuments of the perishable glory and + the imperishable hope of man. He looked up into the vast + countenance of the crouching Sphinx and vainly tried to read + the meaning of her calm eyes and smiling mouth. Was it, + indeed, the mockery of all effort and all aspiration, as + Tigranes had said—the cruel jest of a riddle that has + no answer, a search that never can succeed? Or was there a + touch of pity and encouragement in that inscrutable + smile—a promise that even the defeated should attain a + victory, and the disappointed should discover a prize, and + the ignorant should be made wise, and the blind should see, + and the wandering should come into the haven at last? + </p> + <p> + I saw him again in an obscure house of Alexandria, taking + counsel with a Hebrew rabbi. The venerable man, bending over + the rolls of parchment on which the prophecies of Israel were + written, read aloud the pathetic words which foretold the + sufferings of the promised Messiah—the despised and + rejected of men, the man of sorrows and the acquaintance of + grief. + </p> + <p> + "And remember, my son," said he, fixing his deep-set eyes + upon the face of Artaban, "the King whom you are seeking is + not to be found in a palace, nor among the rich and powerful. + If the light of the world and the glory of Israel had been + appointed to come with the greatness of earthly splendour, it + must have appeared long ago. For no son of Abraham will ever + again rival the power which Joseph had in the palaces of + Egypt, or the magnificence of Solomon throned between the + lions in Jerusalem. But the light for which the world is + waiting is a new light, the glory that shall rise out of + patient and triumphant suffering. And the kingdom which is to + be established forever is a new kingdom, the royalty of + perfect and unconquerable love. I do not know how this shall + come to pass, nor how the turbulent kings and peoples of + earth shall be brought to acknowledge the Messiah and pay + homage to him. But this I know. Those who seek Him will do + well to look among the poor and the lowly, the sorrowful and + the oppressed." + </p> + <p> + So I saw the other wise man again and again, travelling from + place to place, and searching among the people of the + dispersion, with whom the little family from Bethlehem might, + perhaps, have found a refuge. He passed through countries + where famine lay heavy upon the land, and the poor were + crying for bread. He made his dwelling in plague-stricken + cities where the sick were languishing in the bitter + companionship of helpless misery. He visited the oppressed + and the afflicted in the gloom of subterranean prisons, and + the crowded wretchedness of slave-markets, and the weary toil + of galley-ships. In all this populous and intricate world of + anguish, though he found none to worship, he found many to + help. He fed the hungry, and clothed the naked, and healed + the sick, and comforted the captive; and his years went by + more swiftly than the weaver's shuttle that flashes back and + forth through the loom while the web grows and the invisible + pattern is completed. + </p> + <p> + It seemed almost as if he had forgotten his quest. But once I + saw him for a moment as he stood alone at sunrise, waiting at + the gate of a Roman prison. He had taken from a secret + resting-place in his bosom the pearl, the last of his jewels. + As he looked at it, a mellower lustre, a soft and iridescent + light, full of shifting gleams of azure and rose, trembled + upon its surface. It seemed to have absorbed some reflection + of the colours of the lost sapphire and ruby. So the + profound, secret purpose of a noble life draws into itself + the memories of past joy and past sorrow. All that has helped + it, all that has hindered it, is transfused by a subtle magic + into its very essence. It becomes more luminous and precious + the longer it is carried close to the warmth of the beating + heart. Then, at last, while I was thinking of this pearl, and + of its meaning, I heard the end of the story of the other + wise man. + </p><a name="2H_4_06"><!-- H2 anchor --></a> + <p> + + </p> + <p> + + </p> + <p> + + </p> + <p> + + </p> + <h2> + A PEARL OF GREAT PRICE + </h2> + <p> + Three-and-thirty years of the life of Artaban had passed + away, and he was still a pilgrim and a seeker after light. + His hair, once darker than the cliffs of Zagros, was now + white as the wintry snow that covered them. His eyes, that + once flashed like flames of fire, were dull as embers + smouldering among the ashes. + </p> + <p> + Worn and weary and ready to die, but still looking for the + King, he had come for the last time to Jerusalem. He had + often visited the holy city before, and had searched through + all its lanes and crowded hovels and black prisons without + finding any trace of the family of Nazarenes who had fled + from Bethlehem long ago. But now it seemed as if he must make + one more effort, and something whispered in his heart that, + at last, he might succeed. It was the season of the Passover. + The city was thronged with strangers. The children of Israel, + scattered in far lands all over the world, had returned to + the Temple for the great feast, and there had been a + confusion of tongues in the narrow streets for many days. + </p> + <p> + But on this day there was a singular agitation visible in the + multitude. The sky was veiled with a portentous gloom, and + currents of excitement seemed to flash through the crowd like + the thrill which shakes the forest on the eve of a storm. A + secret tide was sweeping them all one way. The clatter of + sandals, and the soft, thick sound of thousands of bare feet + shuffling over the stones, flowed unceasingly along the + street that leads to the Damascus gate. + </p> + <p> + Artaban joined company with a group of people from his own + country, Parthian Jews who had come up to keep the Passover, + and inquired of them the cause of the tumult, and where they + were going. + </p> + <p> + "We are going," they answered, "to the place called Golgotha, + outside the city walls, where there is to be an execution. + Have you not heard what has happened? Two famous robbers are + to be crucified, and with them another, called Jesus of + Nazareth, a man who has done many wonderful works among the + people, so that they love him greatly. But the priests and + elders have said that he must die, because he gave himself + out to be the Son of God. And Pilate has sent him to the + cross because he said that he was the 'King of the Jews.'" + </p> + <p> + How strangely these familiar words fell upon the tired heart + of Artaban! They had led him for a lifetime over land and + sea. And now they came to him darkly and mysteriously like a + message of despair. The King had arisen, but he had been + denied and cast out. He was about to perish. Perhaps he was + already dying. Could it be the same who had been born in + Bethlehem, thirty-three years ago, at whose birth the star + had appeared in heaven, and of whose coming the prophets had + spoken? + </p> + <p> + Artaban's heart beat unsteadily with that troubled, doubtful + apprehension which is the excitement of old age. But he said + within himself, "The ways of God are stranger than the + thoughts of men, and it may be that I shall find the King, at + last, in the hands of His enemies, and shall come in time to + offer my pearl for His ransom before He dies." + </p> + <p> + So the old man followed the multitude with slow and painful + steps towards the Damascus gate of the city. Just beyond the + entrance of the guard-house a troop of Macedonian soldiers + came down the street, dragging a young girl with torn dress + and dishevelled hair. As the Magian paused to look at her + with compassion, she broke suddenly from the hands of her + tormentors, and threw herself at his feet, clasping him + around the knees. She had seen his white cap and the winged + circle on his breast. + </p> + <p> + "Have pity on me," she cried, "and save me, for the sake of + the God of Purity! I also am a daughter of the true religion + which is taught by the Magi. My father was a merchant of + Parthia, but he is dead, and I am seized for his debts to be + sold as a slave. Save me from worse than death!" + </p> + <p> + Artaban trembled. + </p> + <p> + It was the old conflict in his soul, which had come to him in + the palm-grove of Babylon and in the cottage at + Bethlehem—the conflict between the expectation of faith + and the impulse of love. Twice the gift which he had + consecrated to the worship of religion had been drawn from + his hand to the service of humanity. This was the third + trial, the ultimate probation, the final and irrevocable + choice. + </p> + <p> + Was it his great opportunity, or his last temptation? He + could not tell. One thing only was clear in the darkness of + his mind—it was inevitable. And does not the inevitable + come from God? + </p> + <p> + One thing only was sure to his divided heart—to rescue + this helpless girl would be a true deed of love. And is not + love the light of the soul? + </p> + <p> + He took the pearl from his bosom. Never had it seemed so + luminous, so radiant, so full of tender, living lustre. He + laid it in the hand of the slave. + </p> + <p> + "This is thy ransom, daughter! It is the last of my treasures + which I kept for the King." + </p> + <p> + While he spoke the darkness of the sky thickened, and + shuddering tremors ran through the earth, heaving + convulsively like the breast of one who struggles with mighty + grief. + </p> + <p> + The walls of the houses rocked to and fro. Stones were + loosened and crashed into the street. Dust clouds filled the + air. The soldiers fled in terror, reeling like drunken men. + But Artaban and the girl whom he had ransomed crouched + helpless beneath the wall of the Praetorium. + </p> + <p> + What had he to fear? What had he to live for? He had given + away the last remnant of his tribute for the King. He had + parted with the last hope of finding Him. The quest was over, + and it had failed. But, even in that thought, accepted and + embraced, there was peace. It was not resignation. It was not + submission. It was something more profound and searching. He + knew that all was well, because he had done the best that he + could, from day to day. He had been true to the light that + had been given to him. He had looked for more. And if he had + not found it, if a failure was all that came out of his life, + doubtless that was the best that was possible. He had not + seen the revelation of "life everlasting, incorruptible and + immortal." But he knew that even if he could live his earthly + life over again, it could not be otherwise than it had been. + </p> + <p> + One more lingering pulsation of the earthquake quivered + through the ground. A heavy tile, shaken from the roof, fell + and struck the old man on the temple. He lay breathless and + pale, with his gray head resting on the young girl's + shoulder, and the blood trickling from the wound. As she bent + over him, fearing that he was dead, there came a voice + through the twilight, very small and still, like music + sounding from a distance, in which the notes are clear but + the words are lost. The girl turned to see if some one had + spoken from the window above them, but she saw no one. + </p> + <p> + Then the old man's lips began to move, as if in answer, and + she heard him say in the Parthian tongue: + </p> + <p> + "Not so, my Lord! For when saw I thee an hungered, and fed + thee? Or thirsty, and gave thee drink? When saw I thee a + stranger, and took thee in? Or naked, and clothed thee? When + saw I thee sick or in prison, and came unto thee? + Three-and-thirty years have I looked for thee; but I have + never seen thy face, nor ministered to thee, my King." + </p> + <p> + He ceased, and the sweet voice came again. And again the maid + heard it, very faintly and far away. But now it seemed as + though she understood the words: + </p> + <p> + "<i>Verily I say unto thee, inasmuch as thou hast done it + unto one of the least of these my brethren, thou hast done it + unto me</i>." + </p> + <p> + A calm radiance of wonder and joy lighted the pale face of + Artaban like the first ray of dawn on a snowy mountain-peak. + One long, last breath of relief exhaled gently from his lips. + </p> + <p> + His journey was ended. His treasures were accepted. The other + Wise Man had found the King. + </p> + <br> + <hr class="full"> +<pre> + +<div>*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 10679 ***</div> +</body> +</html> |