The _Interpreter_ answered, This is Christ, who continually, with the oil of his grace, maintains the work already begun in the heart, so that the devil cannot quench it. And he stands behind the wall, to shew it is hard for the tempted to see how this work is maintained in his soul. He then took him by the hand, and led him into a pleasant place, where was a stately palace: on the top of which were certain persons walking, who were cloathed all in gold. At the door below stood a great company of men, desirous to go in, but yet afraid. For in the door-way stood many armed men, to keep it, and drive all back. At last a man of a stout countenance came up, drew his sword, put a helmet on his head, and rushed into the midst of the armed men, who fell upon him with all their force. But after receiving and giving many wounds, he cut his way through them all, and went in. Then was heard a pleasant voice from within saying, Come in, soldier of Christ, come in: Eternal glory thou shalt win! I verily think, said _Christian_, I know the meaning of this; now then let me go hence. Stay, said the _Interpreter_, till I have shewed thee a little more. Then he took him by the hand again, and led him into a dark room, where sat a man in an iron cage; his eyes were fixed on the ground, his hands folded together, and he sighed as if he would break his heart. Then said _Christian_, “What art thou?” He replied, I am a man of _despair: I am so fast in prison that I cannot get forth_. _Christian._ But how camest thou there? _Man._ I left off to watch and pray; I sinned against light and love; I grieved the Spirit, ♦and he is gone from me; I tempted the devil, and he is come into me; I defied God, and he hath forsaken me. ♦ duplicate word “and” removed _Christian._ But have you no hope? The Son of the Blessed is of tender mercy. _Man._ But I have crucified him to myself afresh, I have counted his blood an unholy thing, I have done despite to the spirit of grace: and _there remaineth no more sacrifice for sin; but a certain fearful looking for of fiery indignation, which shall devour me as an adversary_. _Christian._ But can’st thou not repent? _Man._ No, never; for I have quenched the Spirit. O eternity, eternity! Who can tell the length of eternity? _Christian._ Well, God help me to watch and pray.――Sir, is it not time for me to go on my way?