"But such tidings as the timid and
the ungrateful deserve, and have reason to expect. You are an
outlaw, and a vagabond in your country, and a high reward is
offered for your apprehension. The enraged populace have burnt
your house, and all that is within it; and the farmers on the land
bless themselves at being rid of you. So fare it with everyone who
puts his hand to the great work of man's restoration to freedom,
and draweth back, contemning the light that is within him! Your
enormities caused me to leave you to yourself for a season, and
you see what the issue has been. You have given some evil ones
power over you, who long to devour you, both soul and body, and
it has required all my power and influence to save you. Had it not
been for my hand, you had been torn in pieces last night; but for
once I prevailed. We must leave this land forthwith, for here there
is neither peace, safety, nor comfort for us. Do you now and here
pledge yourself to one who has so often saved your life and has
put his own at stake to do so? Do you pledge yourself that you
will henceforth be guided by my counsel, and follow me
whithersoever I choose to lead?"
"I have always been swayed by your counsel," said I, "and for
your sake, principally, am I sorry that all our measures have
proved abortive.
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