This time they were nearing the Hills, above which the radiance shone. The country was still of the same mountainous description, and I thought I could see beneath the steep ascent before me a River winding in and out. The golden light seemed to shine down on some parts of the River, but generally it was dark and sombre. Just now the boys were standing near it, and Edred was gazing down into its depths. "It is rather dreadful, Alwin," he exclaimed, turning round and glancing in his companion's face, "to think of having to cross this before we reach the Palace of the King." "Yes," answered Alwin, "and when we look down into it, instead of looking up at the Glory, we do get depressed. But, you know, Edred, our Deliverer has promised to bear us safely through." "Of course He has. He would not leave those whom He has delivered at such a price to perish in the final water, Alwin. No; I will not look down into the River any longer, but rather, as you say, to the Glory beyond. But I wish I knew more of its delights." "The Guide-book tells us a great deal about it; and often since we have neared this River, I have had to turn to the description of it to cheer my fainting courage." "I wish I were acquainted with the Guide-book as you are, Alwin; but I do love it much more than I used--I love it dearly! What does it say?" "Shall I read it to you?" "Yes, do," answered Edred, throwing himself down on the grass by the side of the water, and settling himself into an attitude of expectancy. Alwin once more drew from his knapsack the Guide-book, which had seen much service since my eyes had first fallen upon it, and with one glance upwards at the radiance over the Hills, he turned towards his companion and read in a thrilling tone from the book in his hand, words which seemed familiar to me, though I could not tell in my dream where I heard them: