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Title: Letters to the young from the old world
Notes of travel
Author: Mrs. D. L. Miller
Release date: August 18, 2025 [eBook #76702]
Language: English
Original publication: Mount Morris, IL: The Brethren's Publishing Company, 1894
Credits: Andrew Sly and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net (This file was produced from images generously made available by The Internet Archive)
*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK LETTERS TO THE YOUNG FROM THE OLD WORLD ***
LETTERS
TO
THE YOUNG
FROM THE
OLD WORLD:
NOTES OF TRAVEL
BY
MRS. D. L. MILLER.
MOUNT MORRIS, ILL.:
THE BRETHREN’S PUBLISHING COMPANY,
1894.
Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1894,
BY MRS. D. L. MILLER,
In the Office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington.
_To
MY HUSBAND,
Whose Helpful Words have Encouraged me in my Work,
and to the
YOUNG PEOPLE AND CHILDREN,
Who Urged me Strongly
to Write,
THIS BOOK IS DEDICATED._
INTRODUCTION.
Two years ago the author of this charming little volume happened in my
office. I requested her to be seated, as I wanted to talk to her. I then
told her that she had traveled much in this world, having visited Sweden,
Denmark, Norway, Germany and the Bible Lands; that she had seen and heard
much that would be interesting for others to read about, and I wanted her
to write a series of articles for the _Young Disciple_, giving in the
simplest way possible the information gathered during her travels.
“No, indeed,” she quickly and positively replied. “I cannot do that.” I
told her I felt confident that she could prepare a number of articles, or
letters, that would prove exceedingly interesting and profitable reading,
and that the people were anxious to read what a woman had to say about
the Bible Lands, the people and their customs. Repeating what she had
said, she added that during all her travels she had not made one note,
that she would have to depend entirely upon memory, and felt sure that
she could not do justice to the undertaking. I urged her to give it a
trial.
After a few weeks she handed me two letters. I examined them, and told
her they were just what was desired, and that we would take as many
more as she felt disposed to write. More than fifteen thousand readers
of the _Young Disciple_ know the result. For months they were delighted
with these letters, and even before they were completed in the paper the
author received many communications urging her to bring them out in book
form. Many mothers wrote her and urged that the book should be published,
that it was greatly needed, and would be the means of accomplishing
much good among the children and young people. Even the children write
sister Miller and insist upon her publishing her letters in a book. These
requests became so urgent that the author finally decided to carefully
revise the letters, write more fully on some points, and give the result
of her labors in this neat little volume. We bespeak for it an extensive
circulation, a careful reading and a wide field of usefulness.
J. H. MOORE.
_Mt. Morris, Ill., Sept. 25, 1894._
TABLE OF CONTENTS.
CHAPTER I.
Across the Atlantic.—The Aller.—Small Sleeping Rooms.—A
Singular Kitchen.—Last Farewell.—Seasickness.—Children on the
Ship.—Four Little Boys.—Fog Horn.—The Lookout.—Icebergs.—A
Little Sailor Boy.—Porpoises and Sea Gulls.—Taking on the
Pilot.—Lights on the Other Shore.—Landing. 11
CHAPTER II.
Land.—Bremen.—On the Way to Denmark.—Copenhagen.—Religion
of Denmark.—Singing.—A Farmhouse.—Malmo.—Market Place in
Sweden.—Limhamn.—Fishermen and Boats.—Beautiful Lakes
of Sweden.—Children in Sweden and their Bows.—Pine
Branches.—Mother and Babe.—A Meal along the Way. 31
CHAPTER III.
Norway.—Kong Halfdan.—Fjords.—Hay Transfer.—Government
Vessel.—Two Young Girls.—A Glacier.—The Captain’s Kindness.—The
Beautiful Picture.—Tromsö.—A Floating Buoy.—Eider
Ducks.—Lapp Family.—Reindeer.—Torghatten.—Fish.—The Trap
for Salmon.—Hammerfest.—The White Polar Bear.—The Drunken
Sailor.—Arctic Ocean.—Whaling Station.—The Little White
Church.—Striking a Reef of Rocks. 57
CHAPTER IV.
The Story of a German Boy.—The Priest.—Catholic Woman.—Corps
of Singers.—My Singing Lesson.—Funeral Procession.—Children
Playing.—Wooden Shoes.—Neatness of the German Children.—Their
Politeness.—Cologne.—Its Cathedral.—Height of Towers.—Odd
Costumes.—Art Gallery.—The Picture I Saw. 88
CHAPTER V.
Calais.—English Channel Experience.—Reaching the Pier.—Going
Ashore.—London.—The Fog.—Show Lights.—British Museum.—National
Gallery.—The Tricky Monkey.—Westminster Abbey.—The Tower. 103
CHAPTER VI.
Venice.—A Gondola.—The Pigeons.—Trieste.—Piræus.—Athens.—Paul
and Mars’ Hill.—Sickness.—From Athens to Smyrna.—Man
Overboard.—A Lesson of Unselfishness.—Smyrna.—A Cruel
Father.—Ephesus.—Paul’s Missionary Journey.—The
Vesta.—Beyrut.—Jaffa Landing. 117
CHAPTER VII.
Jaffa.—The Careless Camel.—Bible Characters who lived in
Jaffa.—Jonah’s Temptation.—On the Way to the Holy City.—An
Arab and his Plow.—Ramleh.—Lydda in the Distance.—Leprous
People Begging.—Leprous People of Bible Times.—Camp-fire in
the Cave.—Jerusalem.—Our Room.—Solomon’s Disobedience.—Tower
of David.—The Stubborn Donkey.—Mohammedan Cemetery.—Mount of
Olives. 145
CHAPTER VIII.
Bethany.—Bethlehem.—Rachel’s Tomb.—The Shepherd Boy.—Ruth
and Naomi.—Garden of Gethsemane.—Departure from
Jerusalem.—Yosef.—Jericho Road.—Ain-es-Sultan.—Morning
Call.—Donkey Boy.—Dead Sea.—Along the Banks of the Jordan.—John
the Baptist.—Bad Roads. 168
CHAPTER IX.
Strange Kind of Fuel.—The Village Oven.—Women’s Work.—Fresh
Bread.—The Little Baby.—Landmarks.—Bethel.—My Faithful
Friend.—A Trying Time in the Saddle.—Sinjal. 196
CHAPTER X.
Shiloh.—Jacob’s Well.—Tomb of
Joseph.—Shechem.—Samaria.—Gibeah.—Dothan in the
Distance.—Fountain of Gideon.—Shunem.—Shunammite’s Son.—Nain.
205
CHAPTER XI.
Riding into Nazareth.—Virgin’s Fountain.—Tricky Horses.—Cana
of Galilee.—Tiberias.—Story of Jesus and his Disciples.—Boat
Ride on the Sea of Galilee.—Capernaum.—Mounting
Horses.—Disappearance of the Dragoman.—A Serious Accident.—Lake
Huleh.—Cesarea Philippi.—Mount Hermon.—Crossing the River
Pharpar.—Damascus.—Via Recta.—Bible References to Courts.—Cup
of Coffee.—Water Seller. 218
CHAPTER XII.
Farewell to Damascus.—Ain Fijeh.—Quarrelsome Arabs.—Onward
to Baalbek.—A Friendly Arab Family.—On the Mountains of
Lebanon.—Baalbek.—Rejected Stone.—From Baalbek to Beyrut.—My
Horse John.—Homeward Bound. 243
[Illustration]
CHAPTER I.
_Across the Atlantic.—The Aller.—Small Sleeping Rooms.—A Singular
Kitchen.—Last Farewell.—Seasickness.—Children on the Ship.—Four Little
Boys.—Fog Horn.—The Lookout.—Icebergs.—A Little Sailor Boy.—Porpoises
and Sea Gulls.—Taking on the Pilot.—Lights on the Other Shore.—Landing._
As a usual thing, boys and girls—and even older people—delight to hear
about the ocean and the vessels which float upon it, and now I shall tell
you what I know about the ocean and a voyage across it.
August is said to be one of the best summer months for ocean travel,
because there are not so many hard storms during that month. There is
very little use in paying attention to that saying, for the sea is just
as liable to be rough and stormy one month as another. You know storms
come up on land when we least expect them, and continue longer than
we think they will? Well, just so it is on the ocean; so there is a
possibility of having bad weather, go any month you will.
For a starting point you may choose one of four harbors,—Boston,
Baltimore, Philadelphia or New York. The largest steamers, however, sail
from New York, and it was from there that we took our departure the first
day of August, 1891, at one o’clock P.M. The day was beautiful, just as
clear as any August day you ever saw; so the hearts of the passengers
were glad, for sunshine and mild weather were indications of a pleasant
voyage, we thought. Pleasant weather on land, however, did not mean
pleasant weather out at sea, as we found out later on.
The name of our steamer was the Aller. It is not one of the very largest
ships, but it did seem immense to us. We were quite anxious to have a
good look at our new home, so we went aboard long before sailing time,
and before the rest of the passengers gathered together. In wandering
around we saw narrow passageways and many very small rooms. In our houses
at home we should have called them good sized closets, but in a steamship
they were sleeping rooms, and plenty large enough—if only two persons
occupied them. But it is a surprise to know that sometimes three and four
persons must room together when there is a crowd. I am glad to say there
was plenty of room on the Aller, and we were the only occupants of our
stateroom.
[Illustration: _The Aller._]
In each of the rooms there was a sofa covered with plush, a wash-stand
and basin, and two beds. The beds were built against one side of the
little room, one above the other, and the person who occupied the upper
berth found it necessary to climb up a stepladder every time he retired.
Every piece of furniture was fastened securely; there seemed to be no
danger of their moving from place to place when the sea grew wild and
the vessel tumbled about. Each room had a window in it almost as large
as a dinner plate, and just as round. The glass was set in a heavy brass
frame, and a large screw was used to fasten the window. Not a drop of
water could enter, no matter how high the waves rolled or how hard the
water dashed against them. These windows are called portholes, and the
little rooms are always known as staterooms. When a berth was spoken of
we all knew it meant the bed. You see by this that the most familiar
things had a different name on board a ship.
The floors of halls and staterooms were nicely carpeted, and we wondered
how they could be kept looking so well. There was a beautifully furnished
sitting room with carpet of velvet; heavy damask curtains, sofas of fine
plush, and fine oil paintings decorated the sides and ceiling, painted
there by a master hand. The comfort of the passengers seemed to have been
studied well, for we saw there a beautiful piano and a library of books,
all of which could be used by passengers when they felt so disposed.
The dining room and kitchen we found in the center of the ship, and the
kitchen in particular interested us very much, for we had often wondered
how the cooking utensils were kept in place when the sea became very
rough. The mystery was easily solved, for on looking around we saw many
racks which held the pots, pans and kettles firmly in place. Not very far
from the kitchen was the pantry. There we saw plenty of glassware, and
many dishes of different sizes, all nicely arranged in racks and fitting
so tight that there seemed to be no chance for one of them to move from
right to left.
But the time for sailing was nearer than we had any idea it was, and
further investigation seemed out of the question; but before parting
from our friends we decided that our floating home was neat and clean,
and truly not an unpleasant place to spend the next ten days in.
Passengers were arriving fast by this time, and trunk after trunk was
placed in the hold of the ship by diligent ship hands. We watched the
people as they came aboard one by one. Some faces were looking happy, and
others again showed marks of sadness. I wondered why there was such a
difference, but concluded that the sad-faced people realized what a three
thousand mile journey by water meant, and felt that they might nevermore
behold the faces of loved ones again. If such should have been their
thoughts, is it any wonder they looked sad?
All was hurry and confusion; the large bell rang, and “All ashore” was
called out. Hurriedly friends bade each other good-bye, and those who
were not to go with us made haste to leave the ship. The gang plank was
removed, the ropes were untied, and slowly the ship Aller moved from the
wharf. People who stood there waved handkerchiefs, and we watched them
with our field glass until they seemed like mere specks in the distance.
We were floating seaward, sure enough; and as the ship moved farther and
farther from shore we continued standing on deck, wishing to see all
we could of the land, for we knew many days would pass by when nothing
but sky and water would be seen. In a very short time we were far from
the noise and confusion, and not a strip of land was in sight; then,
with tearful eyes, we left the deck and retired to our stateroom below.
Our mind turned toward the sea and its dangers; visions of shipwrecks
and collisions flitted back and forth before us; but trying hard to be
brave, we cast such thoughts from our mind, consoling ourselves with the
thought that millions of people had crossed the Atlantic safely, and
perhaps we might be so blessed. Then, when we looked around and beheld
the steamer with its immense engines and manned by such strong, hearty
seamen, we could not help but feel that all would go well with us. So,
after breathing a prayer for protection, we settled down to make the best
of things, knowing the Lord to be our protector and feeling sure he would
watch over and care for us.
The sea was not very rough and sailing was delightful. The ship rolled a
little, but the passengers concluded the voyage would be a pleasant one.
Ship acquaintances were soon made, our sitting places at table decided
upon, and everything seemed to be in good running order, and we were as
well fixed as it was possible to be while in the floating home.
After getting out to sea, one must get used to the rolling motion of the
ship, and for many it means to get sick. Now, possibly, you have heard
of people getting seasick. Well, I know all about it myself, and can
tell you that it is a very disagreeable ailment. No one ever dies of
seasickness, physicians say; so it is more distressing than dangerous.
Many people, however, cross and recross the Atlantic without having
unpleasant feelings in that direction; but, on the other hand, very many
are unable to appear at meals regularly. You are not out at sea long
until one by one passengers disappear. Some are missed but a day, while
others do not put in an appearance during the journey. These last named
never do get used to the uneasy, restless sea, and must therefore remain
in their berths during the entire trip. Little boys and girls get very
sick too, sometimes, but as a rule they are not as apt to get seasick as
older people. While I know all about the malady, six days was the longest
period of my affliction, and that occurred when in a hard storm a few
years ago.
A sea voyage has a tendency to make one feel sad. You realize how great
the force of water is and what a mere speck a human being is; each dash
of the waves against the ship’s sides brings you face to face with the
fact that in a twinkling—if the Lord willed—the ship and all on board
could be swept from the face of the water and their burial place be the
bottom of the ocean. Some passengers bury their sad feelings in the wine
cup and at the card table, while others go to the Lord in prayer. Which
of these two ways do you consider to be the better one? The Lord does
not like a drunkard, and you know drunkards cannot enter the kingdom of
heaven. I hope you may all learn to love the Lord in youth, and may you
never be known to drink strong beverages, or be found playing cards and
gambling. Remember that all those who play cards and drink strong drink
in youth usually continue it when they become men and women; for bad
habits formed in youth are hard to overcome even in old age.
A great many children of all ages cross the Atlantic yearly with their
parents, and some of them are very, very young, even tiny little babies
with great long dresses. These little ones, however, are never seen on
deck, as a short time on deck would doubtless chill them completely and
cause a spell of colic to follow shortly after.
The children who are old enough to run around have a delightful time
playing on deck, and the nurse who cares for them has a hard time to keep
them from getting hurt. The ship gives such heavy lurches that many times
grown people find it a difficult matter to keep upon their feet.
Boys and girls as a rule enjoy a sea voyage immensely if they keep well,
and not any of the passengers seemed more happy than they. When they
were tumbled over by a lurch of the ship, it seemed like great fun, and
jumping up they ran away laughing harder than ever.
There were four little boys belonging to two different families on
board the Aller, and those little fellows attracted the attention of
the passengers greatly. Two brothers were good, and two were naughty.
The last named knew how to act ugly and be rude and boisterous; they
quarreled with each other, and even spoke unkindly to their mamma, and,
for that matter, to everybody else. It was plain that those boys had
been spoiled at home, and that being the case nothing better need be
expected of them when away from home. The people on board that steamer
pronounced them both little nuisances, and wished they were at home; for
how could they think of spending ten days in company with such children?
But there was no help for it; so we all endured the trial. Their papa
was one of the men who drank and gambled, and the mamma did not seem
strong enough to manage such tough little fellows alone. The other two
were quiet, innocent little boys, and when spoken to were sure to reply
in a gentlemanly manner. Those who had charge of the two last named
children were seen to pay a great deal of attention to them; and will you
be surprised when I tell you that even the passengers took pleasure in
talking to those good little boys?
While writing this I wonder how many of you are like these little ones I
am writing about. Well, I hope you are all like the good children, for
I cannot bear to think of one of you as being rude and unkind. Do you
want to be loved by those around you? Then be kind, loving, thoughtful
children. You must not speak cross to mamma and papa; no, no; nor to
grandpapa and grandma either. Don’t say, “I won’t,” when asked to do a
little favor, but rather run quickly, saying, “I will do anything you ask
of me.”
Did you ever think of how the Lord keeps a strict account of all we do
and say? Well, he does, and it is written in a book, and then some day
that book will be opened, and all the ugly things we have said and done
will be read out. Just think how it will sound. Children, let us remember
that the better we behave ourselves, the fewer will be the evil deeds
recorded; and then let us remember, too, that the Lord loves dutiful
children.
Have you ever heard of “fog at sea”? Well, sometimes it becomes very
dense and you can scarcely see the full length of the ship. Seamen dread
fog more than storms. It is then that the captain’s face lengthens and
his seat at table is vacant. There is great danger of collisions, for
ships get nearer each other then, because they cannot see ahead. There
is greater danger in going in and out of port when fog is dense, and
many times have we read of steamers running into each other just as they
were getting near to the stopping place. Such an occurrence usually
means a great loss of life, for there is seldom time enough to save the
unfortunate ones. The speed of a vessel should always be slackened when
it is in a fog; but I am sorry to say that many of the captains are
careless, as much so as engineers on our trains; they rush along anxious
to make quick time, and if possible to gain port before ships of another
line do. Many times they do gain port first, but it is the port of death;
and we are made to think that the loss of life is a high price to pay for
quick time.
We have been in fog a great many times. Once we were enveloped in it
five days and five nights. All steamers sound the fog horn, and every
few minutes during that time the disagreeable sound was heard. They gave
it as a warning to other vessels, that they might keep away from them,
thereby avoiding collisions.
There are always men on the lookout for danger. In a box way up in the
rigging of the ship two men stand watching day and night, no difference
how bad the weather is. Several men take their turn in watching, thus
giving each one an opportunity to rest. If at any time there seems to be
a suspicious object in their line of travel, the man calls out in loud
tones, “Danger ahead.” Sometimes the object seen proves to be a wreck,
and if a signal of danger is seen, all haste is made to go to the rescue
of those on board, and many lives are saved in that way. The box in
which those men stand is called the “lookout box,” and from it is called
the hour of day. I remember so well of hearing them call the midnight
hour time and again. It was called thus, “Twelve o’clock”; and then,
“All is well.” O what a satisfaction it always was to know that all was
well; then after that call I was sure to fall into a sweet sleep, only to
awaken at the dawn of another day.
Have you ever heard of an iceberg? Well, they are great mountains of
floating ice which come down from Greenland, Spitzbergen, and other polar
lands. Sometimes they appear right in a ship’s course, and are not always
seen by the naked eye. They float along for miles and miles under water,
making it rather uncertain how close a ship is getting to them. Many
icebergs, however, tower high above the water, and an account has been
given of one seen a few years ago which was two and one-half miles long,
two and one-fifth miles wide, and one hundred and fifty-three feet high.
It is said that many million tons of ice were in that iceberg. When such
an obstacle is seen there is cause for alarm, and well may the men on the
lookout call, “Danger ahead!”
When the weather was favorable we sat on deck every day; and while
sitting there we noticed a sailor go to the railing of the steamer with
a canvas pail. We wondered what he intended doing, and so watched. He
first fastened a long rope to the pail, then threw it overboard, and
after it had floated about in the water a while he drew it toward him,
lifting the pail over the railing brimful of water and immediately after
thrusting a thermometer into it. We knew by that time that the sailor
was testing the temperature of the water. He examined very closely how
many degrees cold it was, then reported the result to the captain. When
the water is many degrees colder than common it is quite possible that an
iceberg is not far distant, so the ship’s course is changed and possibly
a wreck avoided. There seems to be no end of reasons why a man should be
stationed to watch for danger day and night. If a lookout man could tell
us the number of times he was the means of saving people from perishing
by being the first to see the signal of distress, no doubt we should be
surprised. Ships meet with accidents of different kinds. Sometimes we
read of them burning up, and before help can reach them all on board are
lost. How sad that seems. Think of the heartache of friends at home when
the time for their return is at hand and they do not come.
The sailor’s life is a hard one, and yet it is said he is not happy when
off duty long at a time. Have you ever heard him called the “jolly sailor
boy”? I have wondered why people speak of them as being jolly. To me they
are a sad-faced set of men, and out at sea I never saw one of them smile;
sometimes I wondered whether they knew how to. Perhaps all their smiling
is engaged in when on land, where they get beer and strong drink.
Satan finds work for idle hands to do, and the captain is aware of that
fact, so he manages to keep all hands busy when on a voyage, except
during their hours of rest. You see if everybody is busy working or
studying there is no time to plan naughty things, and Satan will soon
find there is no chance for him. You would be surprised to know how many
boys are learning to be sailors. Some of them on the Aller seemed not
over twelve years of age. Their work is not of the hardest kind, still
it is much harder than many of you are used to doing. It matters not how
cold or rainy the weather, the little sailor boys, as well as the big
sailors, must be on hand when duty demands them. It was no uncommon sight
to see the little fellows out in stormy weather, and their hands almost
stiff with cold. There was one boy who seemed to be on deck the greater
part of the time. He was always armed with a broom, and he used it too;
every little piece of paper, and every bit of dirt received his immediate
attention, and with a steady sweep of the broom he sent them out to sea.
These boys never talked with the passengers, but were polite when spoken
to. No idling is allowed on shipboard, so the little fellows were busy
and always on the move. Perhaps they would have enjoyed a good romp as
well as any of you; but that was out of the question.
Sitting on deck is one of the pastimes of an ocean voyage. If a passenger
seemed at all inclined to stay in the stateroom day after day when he
was well and the weather was fine, you soon heard some one say, “Better
stay on deck.” The air of a stateroom is not fresh and bracing, and after
having been on deck a few hours one has a dislike to stay in closer
quarters. There are deck chairs to sit upon. Any person paying one dollar
extra has the privilege of using one during the voyage. Sea air is
usually a damp, cold air which makes it necessary to have heavy wraps
and a good thick steamer rug to throw over the knees, that you may keep
comfortable.
The first four or five days of an ocean voyage pass very slowly, for
you remember there is nothing to be seen but sky and water. There was
a strong desire on the part of the people to see a ship, and if some
one should call out, “Oh, there’s a sail!” all eyes were turned toward
the dark object in the distance, and with the help of a field glass the
outline of a vessel could be plainly seen. By and by it was in full
view, and the children were heard to say, “Let me see too.” You would
be surprised to know for how long a time that ship is the subject of
conversation. They wonder what her name is and to what port she is bound;
whether she is a passenger steamer or carries freight alone. Passengers
on a steamer are easily entertained, and no object is passed by unseen,
for the most of them are on the watch.
By this time you can imagine us to be pretty well out at sea, and now
the sight of a vessel is no uncommon occurrence. A sailing vessel, with
her sails all filled with wind, was a beautiful sight, and scarcely a
day passed without seeing one or more of them. Many, many years ago
steamships were unknown, and a voyage across the Atlantic was not
accomplished in as short a period of time as in these days. You know
that when a vessel depends upon wind to move it along there is danger of
its progress being hindered, for sometimes the wind is from the contrary
direction.
Each day brought with it something new which amused the passengers. One
day we found ourselves standing at the railing of the ship watching
porpoises as they rushed along in the water below. Porpoises are of a
sociable turn, and are seen swimming in schools close by the vessel’s
side. Their color is a dark gray, or almost black, and the under side
of them approaches a pure white; their length when full grown is five
feet or more. There was a time when the meat of porpoises was eaten and
considered good; but now they are rarely if ever eaten; the blubber or
fat alone is used for the oil which it contains. They are great fellows
to spring up out of the water, and it is then that their full length and
color are seen. That action greatly amused the children, and they called
out, “O, look at the fish; just look at them!” And then the merry peals
of laughter sounded throughout the ship. We never knew how long a time
the porpoises traveled with us, for standing became tiresome, and one by
one we turned away, leaving them without an admirer.
Sea gulls began flying about the ship by this time, and the indications
were that land was not very far distant. How pleased we were to see them,
and when land was mentioned our hearts swelled with joy. The gull is a
web-footed sea fowl with long, narrow wings and straight beak, hooked at
the tip. Occasionally you see some that are gray in color, but the most
of them are all white. They feed upon fish, yet very willingly do they
eat the scraps which the cooks throw to them.
Did you ever go fishing? Well, I’m very sure you had more trouble to
catch fish than those gulls had. They would not be bothered with hook and
line, and neither would you if it were possible for you to catch fish as
they do. While flying above the water a sharp lookout is kept for fish
below, and when one is seen they dart down upon it; and the next instant
it is theirs. You would be surprised to see with what ease and grace they
ride upon the waves, seemingly resting as comfortably as we who were upon
the ship sitting in steamer chairs. We imagined they were tired, and that
sitting on a wave was their method of resting, and a sort of pastime for
them.
One of the great events of a sea voyage is the taking on of a pilot,
and that occurs when a few days out from land. The pilot who brings a
vessel across the Atlantic does not take it into the harbor, unless, as
is sometimes the case, a pilot cannot be picked up because of the density
of the fog. In that event the one who steers the ship across the ocean
_must_ take it into port; but he would rather not do so, for navigation
is both difficult and dangerous the nearer one gets to land. The new
pilot is taken aboard to superintend the steering of the vessel into
port, and during the time he has charge of it the whole responsibility
of getting her into port safely rests upon him. He knows where to locate
the bad places, and makes a business of trying to escape them. Passengers
watch faithfully for the appearance of the pilot boat, and a great deal
of time is consumed in that way.
The pilot boat is small, and has one white sail; on the sail is painted
a number in black. For instance, number nine, or number thirteen is to
be seen plainly. The passengers sometimes thought the pilot boat was
slow in putting in an appearance. They were over-anxious, you see; but
in due time the little boat was seen away off in the distance bobbing up
and down with the waves; sometimes it was lost sight of entirely; only
for a little time, however, for the next wave brought it in full view,
and a chorus of voices called out, “There she is, almost here.” How
small it seemed compared with the Aller, and the waves tossed it about
as though it were a mere feather. At times they almost overwhelmed it;
but the sturdy seamen had strong nerve, and they handled the little craft
as though the task was a light one, still steering in the direction of
the great Atlantic steamer. Can you imagine the boat coming nearer and
nearer the Aller? I can; and in my mind I see the seamen throw the rope
overboard to them; they catch it, are drawn closer and closer to the
side of the great ship where the long rope ladder hangs. O how anxious
we feel! What if he should make a misstep? And we turned away from the
railing where the crowd stood watching. It took the man but a little
while to climb to the top of the ladder, and before we were aware of it
he was standing on deck. We looked at him with surprise, and he bade us
the time of day.
No sooner was the new pilot on deck than we found ourselves steaming
away. Just how soon he commenced work we do not know; but we settled down
quietly, feeling satisfied that if all was well with us only a few days
would pass before our feet would tread upon dry land again.
The sad faces took on a more cheerful look now, and peal after peal
of laughter was heard. The piano was opened and lively music played;
singing was engaged in, and indeed it seemed as though a new set of
people had come forth. It was plainly to be seen that no one dreaded to
reach land. The sea was rough, and the sky overcast with heavy clouds;
but that was nothing new, for the whole ten days it was rainy, and the
sun shone but little to cheer us on our way.
There was a band of music on board the steamer which played several times
each day. Sometimes they played on deck, and always while we were eating
dinner. Not everybody enjoyed their music, but since it was the custom to
have band music they had to submit.
Sunday mornings we were always awakened by music which seemed in the
distance; and the old familiar hymn of “Nearer, My God, to Thee,” came
to us seemingly from the far away. The sound of it never failed to bring
tears to my eyes, for home loomed up before me, and I beheld loved ones
gathered together for worship, singing songs of praise and thanksgiving.
But the music passed away, and Sunday was spent just like all other
days. Southampton, England, was reached, and there we unloaded some of
our cargo. A great many passengers left and a few came aboard to go on
to Bremen with us. Their journey seemed like a short one compared to the
voyage which was just ending for the most of the passengers.
Between ten and eleven o’clock one night land was sighted, and many
lights could be plainly seen along the shore, although it was said they
were twenty-five or thirty miles away. We stood on deck an hour or
more watching those beacon lights, and the tears of joy flowed down
our cheeks. While we looked at them the beautiful hymn of P. P. Bliss,
“Let the Lower Lights be Burning,” came to our mind, and quietly we
sang it; and I thought of this passage of Scripture, “Let your light so
shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your
Father which is in heaven.” And that night I realized what it meant for
Christians to have their lamps trimmed and burning. We could not remain
on deck longer, for the air was damp and chilly, so we retired to our
stateroom feeling sure that on the morrow, if the Lord willed, our feet
would again press mother earth.
The next day was disagreeable indeed, but when the time to go ashore was
announced no one murmured. America seemed far, far away now, and instead
of traveling under the stars and stripes of our mother country henceforth
flags of other nations were to fly above us. Willingly did we journey to
those foreign lands, so we made the best of the situation, deciding to
see and learn all we could. There was a satisfaction in knowing that the
Lord in whom we trusted would go with us in whatsoever land we journeyed.
[Illustration]
CHAPTER II.
_Land.—Bremen.—On the Way to Denmark.—Copenhagen.—Religion
of Denmark.—Singing.—A Farmhouse.—Malmo.—Market Place in
Sweden.—Limhamn.—Fishermen and Boats.—Beautiful Lakes of
Sweden.—Children in Sweden and their Bows.—Pine Branches.—Mother
and Babe.—A Meal along the Way._
Now you may imagine us upon land, and what a change! The same sky with
small patches of blue was above us, but the sea was all gone. Trees and
grass never before looked more beautiful, and no doubt we appreciated the
sight more because we had seen nothing green for so many days.
New sights and new scenes met our gaze, and, strangest of all, a new
language was spoken; for you must remember we were upon German soil.
After having the baggage examined, which is always necessary when going
into a strange country, we passed from the custom house to the train
which was in waiting for all steamer passengers; and just as we were
about to enter the cars there was a downpour of rain. There was nothing
pleasant in that, but we had long since learned that there was no use
to murmur when the weather was bad; so we settled back in our seats and
watched the water as it came pouring down.
Between eight and nine o’clock that night we reached the city of Bremen.
The depot was well lighted, and every one was enabled to see plainly
where to go. Hotels were not scarce, for they are to be seen on all
sides, so it took but a little time for us to find comfortable quarters.
How strange everything seemed! There was no need of watchfulness now,
lest a lurch of the ship would give us an unexpected seat upon the floor.
No noise of machinery sounded in our ears, and there was no restless,
uneasy sea. “Give me land,” I said; and who is there who would not rather
be on land than water?
The next morning found us somewhat rested, and after eating a warm
breakfast we planned for the rest of our journey. Time was precious,
therefore it was out of the question for us to tarry long in Bremen; so
as soon as possible we took our departure for Denmark.
Copenhagen was the first point aimed for, and we traveled northward,
leaving Germany far behind. At Kiel we made our first stop, and there
took a steamer crossing over to Korsör, which place we reached about
seven o’clock next morning. A train was waiting to take all passengers on
to Copenhagen, and about noon we had reached our journey’s end.
Denmark is not a very large country, therefore it takes but a short time
to travel from Germany to the north end of it. There is a great deal of
water around this little country, consequently the air is damp and chilly
most of the time, and people who live there wear heavy woolen clothing
all the year round. Even though it was the month of August, we were quite
comfortable in warm clothing.
We happened there just in time to have full benefit of the storms of wind
and rain which are frequent during the months of July and August, and the
changeable weather was in no wise agreeable to us.
Copenhagen is the capital of Denmark, and is therefore a very large city.
We spent several days with the brethren and sisters there, for you know
that is one of our mission points. Copenhagen is situated on the Island
of Seeland, and so is entirely surrounded by water. The streets are
very clean and the houses quite nice looking. There are little lakes in
different parts of the city, and often the large white swans are seen
swimming gracefully upon them, and people throw pieces of bread far out
into the water so that they may have a long distance to swim before
getting the wet morsel.
There were plenty of chances for sightseeing, and palaces, churches,
hospitals, schools and museums were open to visitors special days in the
week. There was not time to visit all of the above-named places, but we
were sure that one week would be a short time to spend in the careful
examination of all relics which were on exhibition.
The established religion of Denmark is Lutheran, but the Baptists and
our Brethren are among the number who have regularly organized churches
there. Instead of worshiping in fine large churches as do the Lutherans,
they meet and worship in halls, for mission bands cannot afford to spend
money to keep up large church edifices. Religious privileges are many,
and yet many of the inhabitants live in sin and wickedness, turning a
deaf ear to the pleading voice of the ministers.
Children who live in that large city do not have nice yards in which to
play; but there are many very nice parks where they congregate every day
and have the best kind of a time together.
The people were very kind to us, and no matter what hour we called upon
them they were sure to give us a cup of good hot coffee. I wondered
whether the coffeepot was kept upon the stove all the time, for only
a few minutes passed between the time we entered their home and the
presentation of the cup of coffee. Sometimes chocolate was given, but it
was necessary to refuse one or the other of the drinks, so we gave the
preference to coffee.
The Danes take great pleasure in singing, and I remember well, when we
sat up until the clock struck two in the morning, singing out of the
Gospel Hymns, they singing in Danish, and we singing in English.
We had a strong desire to see something of country life, so journeyed
through the greater part of Denmark, stopping in villages and visiting at
farmhouses. It was our happy privilege to become acquainted with a great
many people, and we found them as kind and hospitable as those living
in the city. A few visitors in a family seemed not to discommode the
housewife, for no extra pains were taken to prepare fine meals. Company
fared the same as those of the family, and none seemed tired by their
much serving.
[Illustration: _Danish Country Woman._]
There was quite a company gathered together at one farmhouse, and we
were among the number. When mealtime came not all of the people could be
seated around the table, for it was too small, so eight of the number
took places and the rest waited to eat at the second table. There was no
nice white tablecloth to be seen, and not a fine display of nice dishes
either; no silverware decorated that table, and, indeed, the whole house
seemed void of an unnecessary thing.
But I’m going to tell you about the meal, so will pass by a description
of the house and its furniture. On the table were a plate of black bread,
a small dish of butter, and two earthen dishes filled with milk. The
dishes were placed at the ends of the table, so that four persons could
have easy access to them when the dipping-in time came. There were knives
and spoons, but not enough to go around. Now what was to be done? Well,
they were used a while by some, then passed on to be used by those who
had none. We were strangers in the company, therefore the favored ones,
so had the happy privilege of having a spoon all to ourselves. Now they
were not of silver, as you might suppose, but bone. They were short in
the handle and large in the bowl. Just look at your mother’s kitchen
spoons and I think the size will correspond very well with the bone ones
we used.
Instead of having bread and milk, which most of the boys and girls
like, we took the milk first, dipping into the earthen dish and placing
the milk in the mouth spoonful by spoonful; and then we ate the bread
afterward. Now that was no style of our own, for we followed the example
of those around us, and the custom seemed indeed a very strange one. When
the slices of black bread were gone, and the dishes of milk emptied, all
stopped eating and thanks were returned to the Father above who provides
so liberally. After this all retired from the table. We were not made
comfortable by sitting on sofas and easy chairs. Oh no; but instead of
that we had the privilege of standing until those at the second table
were through eating, and even then we had the pleasure of being seated
upon narrow benches, or possibly on an uncomfortable chair.
Those people had a novel way of cleaning the spoons used in eating. I
noticed with astonishment that after each person had finished the milk,
and needed the spoon no longer, he took the bowl of the spoon between
the thumb and fingers of the left hand, wiping it clean; after which
the spoon was put away, to be used sometime in the future. Now, little
girls,—you who do not fancy washing dishes, and especially spoons,—you
must not adopt this method of cleaning them. But probably you will think
about it as I do,—that the custom is not a nice one, and hardly worth
following.
Houses in the country are built low and rather long. One end of them
is used as living apartments and the other end for horses, cows and
chickens. The farmer need not go far when feeding-time comes; it is
only necessary for him to walk through the kitchen, open a door and
commence his work of feeding. The odor of the stable permeates the entire
house, and there is no way of getting where it is not. Now some people
think living close to a barn is healthful; but I must confess it is
disagreeable in the extreme to me, and I had a great desire to be far
away from such a nuisance.
The language of the Danes is quite unlike that of the Germans, and
we were not able to talk to the people whom we met, unless it were
through an interpreter, and that made it necessary for us to have an
English-speaking person with us almost all of the time. To be in a
country where one does not understand the language is quite unhandy, and
yet there are a great many people who travel all over Europe and speak
but one language, the English. Again, you meet persons who speak seven or
eight different languages fluently.
There is a great deal to interest one while traveling through a strange
country; but it is not well for us to write too much about one place, so
we shall leave Denmark and go to Sweden.
Since Copenhagen is built on an island, you will know it is wholly
surrounded by water. If such be the case, it is utterly impossible for
any one to leave there for Sweden without going aboard a steamer. The
passage of water between the two countries is called a sound, and every
one knows it by the name of “The Sound.”
One bright, beautiful day, in company with some Brethren, we crossed over
the sound to the seaport town of Malmo, Sweden. The steamer was very
clean, and the water unusually smooth that morning; so the ride of an
hour and a half was a very enjoyable one. Malmo is only sixteen miles
distant from Copenhagen, and when the day is clear the cities may be seen
plainly when on the water.
The languages of Sweden and Denmark seemed alike to us, yet the natives
claim there is quite a difference. Be that as it may, the people of both
countries talk together and understand each other without much trouble.
Our time was limited, and hurriedly we took in the sights, spending a
short time with those of like precious faith who lived in the city. The
time spent with them was well spent, for we were received cordially by
all.
The cities of Europe are all very much alike; the houses are built in
flats, having many families living under one roof. The streets are clean
enough for footmen to walk upon, and there is no danger of even soiling
the shoes. The store windows were tastefully arranged, being quite
attractive to the passer-by, and causing us to think that much time could
be consumed in looking at the beautiful display of finery.
The market place of a large city in the Old Country was always attractive
to us, and if it was at all possible we aimed to take a stroll through
it. We admired the tastefully arranged stands of vegetables, crisp and
green. Fruit seemed to be plentiful that year, and apples, pears and
plums all looked beautiful. Even the butter, eggs and cheese stands
looked well, and you would be surprised to know how many different kinds
of cheese were on sale. Not much time was spent in looking at meats,
fish and fowls, for close by was a greater attraction, that of the stand
filled with flowers. There we saw the pleasant faced little pansy, the
beautiful carnation pinks, and the loveliest of all flowers—the rose. I
think I never saw such beauties as were offered for sale in the Malmo
market. My husband—who was very indulgent—kept me well supplied with
them, and their fragrance was enjoyed by others as well as myself.
[Illustration: _Fishermen’s Wives._]
Six miles distant from Malmo is a small village called Limhamn, and at
that place there is a small church with a few members. We were requested
to visit the members by way of encouragement; and as soon as the train
was ready we started for that point. The ride was of short duration, yet
very pleasant. Almost the entire distance the railroad track ran close to
the water; so we had the pleasure of looking out upon the great body of
water with its ships and sailboats.
The village of Limhamn is the home of many fishermen. About three o’clock
in the afternoon they start out to fish. All night long they work hard,
and in the morning often return with a very small catch. One time we
looked out over the water and saw twenty boats of fishermen with sails
well filled with wind. As a rule, those boats keep very close together,
one following in the wake of the other. Sometimes the wind almost topples
them over, but on they go, spinning along at a rapid rate. When the waves
are lashed into fury by a storm many a little sailboat is turned over,
and the boatman goes down, never to be seen again.
In those northern countries fishing is quite a business, and whole
families sometimes engage in it. The women have a hard time, for they
do double duty, that of looking after their families and then going to
market day after day. After the husband returns in the early morning
with his fish, the wife and all the children who are old enough arise
and hasten to prepare them for market. As soon as fifty or one hundred
fish have been made ready they are placed in a wheelbarrow, and the wife,
after having changed her soiled dress for a clean one, trudges off to
market, walking a mile or more with the heavy load. Where there are large
families it takes many, many fish to pay for food and clothing, and it is
therefore quite necessary that all should work.
The life of a fisherman is hard indeed; constantly dangers surround him;
yet he seems to enjoy life about as well as those who work on land. They
are strong, hearty looking fellows, which you will notice by looking at
the picture of the four weather-beaten faces before you. Do you see their
heavy coats? And then just look at the odd looking hat. The rim, which
extends over the back of the neck, is for protection against wind and
storm. Perhaps if we were upon the water that rim would be turned around
and used as a protection for our eyes instead of the neck. After all,
each fisherman probably knows best what is for his individual good, and
no doubt the wind and stormy weather have taught him many good lessons on
the preservation of health.
The time spent at each stopping place was of short duration; so then we
left the fishermen at Limhamn to toil on, and we traveled still farther
north.
Much of the country which we passed through was very rough looking, and
yet there were parts of it which reminded us of northern Illinois, where
we live. The greater part of Sweden is covered with forests of pine and
fir trees, and the railroad ran through miles and miles of it, giving
the passengers a splendid chance to see a great deal of country. There
seemed scarcely an end to those beautiful trees, and we really grew tired
looking at them for hours at a time.
Sweden is noted for her many beautiful lakes. Some of them are quite
large, and boats are seen upon them; but very many of them are small. We
passed alternately forests and lakes, and we were always sure to see a
forest after having passed a lake. Never before in my life had I seen as
many beautiful lakes as we saw during that ride.
Sometimes for miles and miles the ground was covered with heather, or
ling. Its leaves are very small, and they are green all the year round.
It bears very pretty little flowers; some are white and some are pink.
They are not at all fragrant, but very pretty to look at. Heather is of
no use to the farmer, and no doubt he would rather not have it cumber
his ground. But the train comes to a halt, and we leave it, expecting to
visit in the country, and thereby come in closer contact with the people.
[Illustration: _Fishermen._]
As a rule the Swedish people are religiously inclined, and they esteem
it a great pleasure to have the story of Jesus and his love told them.
Many times I noticed the tears chase each other down their weather-beaten
faces while the minister talked about the saints of old. Very willing and
anxious were they for the Word of God; and I’m so glad to tell you it
was given them in all of its purity.
The women seemed sorrowful because I could not converse with them; and
in turn I felt sorry not to be able to gratify their desire; but we got
along nicely anyway. Their hearts seemed full of love for me, and they
made it manifest by patting me upon the shoulder, squeezing my hand, and
kissing me frequently. It was all they could do, and I did not object.
You must remember these people lived on farms, were very poor, and knew
nothing of the ways of the world as we know them. They were innocent,
kind-hearted and good.
I have often wished, since writing these little letters, that I could
have talked with the children in those faraway countries. There might
have been many things to tell which would have pleased you. But we are
deprived of much pleasure as we pass through this world; and, since it
cannot be otherwise, we must be satisfied.
Children in Sweden are like other children; they talk, laugh, and romp
too. We longed to talk with them, but that being out of the question we
undertook to make them understand us by making gestures, and that method
was quite interesting. Now, children, whenever you are in a position
where you cannot talk to those around you, just try my plan, and see how
nicely you will get along.
Children enjoy doing favors for those who are older than themselves;
and how much they love to be praised for it! Now that brings to my mind
the little Swedish girl who took great pleasure in gathering plums and
bringing them to the house. After having sorted them, the largest and
nicest ones were handed to me. In her language I thanked her, but that
was all I was able to say. No doubt she wished I’d talk a little more to
her; but, finding my list of words was very short, she concluded to do
all the talking herself, so chattered away at a lively rate, not even
waiting for an answer. I could do nothing but look and listen. We were
very good friends anyway, and each talked to the other in her own native
language, but neither understood a word that was spoken by the other. How
would you like to live with people and not be able to talk with them? The
home of my little friend was our home for at least two weeks, and before
we bade them adieu I had wandered with her from orchard to barn, and from
one neighbor’s house to another; and when the heavy wind had shaken down
the beautiful apples, together we picked them up. Going from place to
place with the little girl helped me pass away many lonely hours, and I
assure you that not many hours passed without my longing for the friends
at home. Do you wonder then that so small a thing would give me pleasure?
In Sweden the little girls—and women too—make such pretty little bows.
Not as we bow in America; no, but with a very quick and graceful
movement. There is a bending of the knee, and a dropping of the body.
Old women, young women, and even tiny little girls, all bow exactly
alike. It took quite an effort on my part to keep back the smile which
wanted so much to come, and I’m sure you would have had the same feeling
if you could have seen them. From infancy children are trained to have
respect for older people, and it is taught them in such a way that they
never forget it. They were taught to bow; that was a mark of courtesy and
respect. Will you, my little readers, try to remember the training given
at home, as do the children away across the ocean?
I told you there were miles and miles of pine forests in Sweden, you
remember? Well, physicians recommend persons who have weak lungs to take
many, many rides through them, claiming that the pine odor is healing to
the lungs. I do not know how much truth there is in the saying, for our
lungs seemed all right; but I do know that a ride through the forests in
a wagon is delightful, and worth taking.
Pine branches are used quite profusely in that country for decorating
both the inside and outside of houses on special occasions. One time
we were expected at a certain country home, and great preparations had
been made for our reception. The hostess did not bake fine cakes or kill
chickens for us, either. Well, what did they do? Why, they took a jaunt
to the forest, gathered evergreens—pine branches—ever so much of them,
took them home, cut them up in many small pieces, and scattered them
on the walk from the gate where we were to dismount up to the house,
then almost covered the steps leading to the front door. Two beautiful
young pine trees had been planted, temporarily, on either side of the
steps, and indeed the old farmhouse took on quite a pleasant appearance.
In walking over the fresh-cut pine its odor came up around us, and was
quite agreeable. Now don’t you think those people were kind? Perhaps
when I tell you that all of the work was done by women and children you
will think we would be strange people not to feel pleased with such a
reception. We enjoyed all, for we felt sure that love for the American
wanderers prompted them to work so hard.
Soon we shall leave this interesting country; but before we do so will
call your attention to the picture of a Swedish mother and babe. Do you
notice the pleasant looking faces of both parties? Then observe closely
the peculiar way of dressing. That woman doesn’t need a baby carriage to
haul the little one in; no, indeed; she has something better, for with
the child sitting in the sling which hangs over the shoulder the mother’s
hands are free and she uses them to knit stockings for the rest of the
family. That way of dressing is not altogether in vogue now, for fashion
has gone ahead and the modest apparel like that of the woman in the
picture is very seldom seen these days.
We are admonished to love those who are of the same household of faith,
and as the family with whom we stayed belonged to the same communion as
ourselves, we had much love in our hearts for them. With tearful eyes the
farewells were said, and we wondered whether the Lord in his goodness
would permit all to meet again this side of the grave.
[Illustration: _Swedish Mother and Child._]
Time passes swiftly, no matter where you are, at home or in a foreign
land, so the allotted time for rest in Sweden had finally come to an
end. There were many days of travel before us, and riding becomes quite
tiresome when day after day is spent in foreign railway carriages.
Our new-made friends were loath to have us leave, and farewell seemed a
hard word for them to say. Several accompanied us to the station, many
of them walking in the hot sun a distance of two or three miles. We took
seats at the window of the car, and when the train passed out we looked
back and saw them waving handkerchiefs until the distance widened between
us and the flutter of white was no more visible. Waving the handkerchief
after departing friends is a custom of the country, and at every station
along the railroad it is seen.
There are a number of things along the line of travel to interest
tourists, if they are in the proper mood to be interested. Many days of
continued travel bring with them feelings of weariness; and when that is
the case, beautiful scenery or odd customs of the people fail to attract
attention. The discomforts of foreign travel are many, and they often
drive away the enthusiastic feelings one had in the beginning of a long
journey.
The guard of a train usually takes orders for meals which passengers
expect to get along the road, and when you are not thinking of it he puts
his head in at the window and asks who among the number desire dinner. A
dispatch is sent, and the meal is ready by the time we reach the stopping
place.
You enter a nice, clean dining room, and there you see tables spread with
very white tablecloths. Here and there upon the tables are stacks of soup
plates, dinner plates and small dessert plates, and knives, forks and
spoons close by them; dishes of boiled salmon with sauce, hot potatoes,
boiled beef and cauliflower with cream sauce; then, too, ever so many
kinds of cheese, and some smoked meats.
We followed the example of the rest of the people, and forthwith helped
ourselves to a plate, knife, fork and spoon. No waiters looked after our
wants, so each person looked after himself, being careful not to push or
elbow his neighbor. Everybody was orderly, and the dinner was splendid.
Two women had the oversight of the dining room, but they sat off at one
side, behind a little table, and did not leave their seats until paying
time came, when they took the money and made the change.
A servant appeared and took away each plate when it was needed no more,
and when time for the dessert had come, she removed the fish, meat and
vegetable dishes. There was no tarrying one for the other, but as each
person desired a dessert he arose, took a plate and helped himself to the
jellied raspberry juice, or tapioca pudding; and as a dressing for them
delicious whipped cream, poured from a large glass pitcher, was used.
After paying the bill, each one passed out to the train, which started
soon after.
[Illustration]
CHAPTER III.
_Norway.—Kong Halfdan.—Fjords.—Hay Transfer.—Government
Vessel.—Two Young Girls.—A Glacier.—The Captain’s Kindness.—The
Beautiful Picture.—Tromsö.—A Floating Buoy.—Eider
Ducks.—Lapp Family.—Reindeer.—Torghatten.—Fish.—The Trap for
Salmon.—Hammerfest.—The White Polar Bear.—The Drunken Sailor.—Arctic
Ocean.—Whaling Station.—The Little White Church.—Striking a Reef of
Rocks._
Before a tourist leaves home the mind is usually settled upon certain
places to be visited in the Old World. We think it a very good plan,
for then the history of those special points may be looked up and the
visit made more satisfactory; for the more knowledge one has of noted
historical places, the more pleasing is the visit.
Norway was the country we had decided to visit, and “The Land of the
Midnight Sun” was the point aimed for. So the twentieth day of August
found us two in the city of Throndhjem, once the capital of Norway.
Instead of railway coaches, passage was taken on a steamer which was then
at the pier puffing heavy black smoke from the smokestack.
[Illustration: _The Midnight Sun._]
The sailors were busily engaged in storing away the cargo, and there was
every indication that in a few hours she would steam out of port. Upon
inquiry we found that steamers had quit running to that far northern
point; the season being over, there would be no more chance for us that
year. That information was quite disappointing, for we had looked forward
with a great deal of pleasure to the time when we should look upon the
bright sun shining at midnight. The fault seemed to be our own, for we
had not started north soon enough. We concluded to go as far as the
steamer went, rather than turn back; so the tickets were purchased and a
stateroom procured on board the steamer Kong Halfdan.
The name seemed odd indeed, and you cannot imagine how very small the
ship did seem compared to the monsters on the Atlantic. I did wish it
were larger, though; but since it was not in my power to change its
size I just tried to appear unconcerned, and that wasn’t a very easy
task. This vessel belonged to the government, and in the season she made
regular trips between Throndhjem and North Cape. As the steamer was not
to leave her pier for an hour or more, we decided to walk around the city
and thus escape the noise and confusion of loading, which was in full
operation all around. Walking seemed to be a tiresome piece of work that
morning, and we were glad to return and take a seat upon deck, where we
remained until sailing time.
The day was cloudy, with a stiff sea breeze blowing and we concluded a
good shaking up was in store for us; perhaps a spell of seasickness in
the bargain. The captain said, “Nobody ever gets seasick on the fjords of
Norway”; but I decided to wait and see. The water in the bay was rough,
and the ship inclined to roll a little, so the outlook did not seem very
flattering.
The time for sailing came, and at twelve o’clock, noon, the anchor was
drawn up, and quickly we left the pier. I sat on deck but a short time,
for the rocking motion of the ship gave my stomach an unsettled feeling;
so, as soon as possible, I withdrew to my stateroom, and in a short
time thereafter my head was upon a pillow, where the sight of water was
entirely shut off.
After having gone a few miles, we were agreeably surprised at finding
a calm, beautiful sea. The clouds passed away, and the sun in all its
splendor shone down upon us, and each day, from that time on, the sun
cheered our way. We were out for a twelve days’ cruise along the rocky
coast of Norway, and you can imagine it was pleasing to have fine weather
and a smooth sea.
There were not many first cabin passengers on board the Kong Halfdan,
and it so happened that I was the only lady; but that which disturbed me
the most was to know that among them all we were the only two who were
English-speaking. The captain, who was a very nice man and extremely kind
to us, talked English quite well, so every once in a while we held a
conversation with him.
The captain and first and second mate ate at the same table with the
passengers. It was a long, narrow table and accommodated sixteen people.
A lounge ran the full length of one side of it, while chairs were used on
the other side. Each one had his seat, and at every meal we sat in the
same places. The captain was seated to the right and my husband to the
left of me, and from there down others sat; but we had the honor of being
seated on the lounge, and near to the captain.
The fjords of Norway are known as arms of the sea, they being a part of
the Atlantic and Arctic oceans. Some of the fjords are narrow, but others
are quite wide. Large vessels float upon them, for the water is very,
very deep.
The Norwegians are a thrifty people, and their little homes on the green
hillside along the fjords were very inviting as we passed them one
by one. Some were near enough for us to see the chickens picking and
scratching in the yard, and gladly would we have exchanged our stateroom
on the steamer for a cozy room in a cottage.
The steamer had regular stopping places called stations along the
line, and at those places they took on passengers and cargo. There was
no chance to cast anchor close to shore, for rocks run far out into
the water. Passengers and freight were always taken off in rowboats.
Mountains seemed to hem us in, and the splendid scenery was a surprise to
us; yet it proved to be quite a monotonous ride and we were anxious for a
change.
Green fields were scarcely ever seen, but small patches of green were
noticed here and there on the sides of the mountains. I wondered what the
Norwegians would say if a glance at fields of grass and grain, as we know
them, could be placed before them.
A familiar object along the way was a wire stretched from the foot to the
summit of a mountain. I’ll call it a hay telegraph. You see the farmer
cuts grass which grows on narrow ledges of rocks way up in the mountain.
He stores it away until great quantities have been accumulated and then,
when ready to have it stored close to his house for winter use, he sends
bundle after bundle down the wire. That wire was a novel contrivance to
save labor, for without it very many steps would surely have to be taken
by the weary farmer.
The government vessels carry provision and mail to the inhabitants living
along the coast, and we were reminded of our freight or express cars,
carrying all kinds of things and delivering them at regular points along
the line. The steamer did not present a beautiful appearance, for the
deck was greasy and very dirty looking. Quite a smell of fish filled the
air, and we found that her main cargo consisted of fish and fish-oil. All
of this accounted for the greasy look of the deck and the bad odor which
greeted our nostrils. You would be surprised to know how much freight
and express is taken on and off at those stations. I passed many hours
standing at the railing of the ship watching the process of loading
and unloading baggage, passengers and freight, and felt myself well
entertained.
One time two young girls rowed up alongside of the Kong Halfdan. A rope
from the ship was thrown them with which to steady themselves; they
caught it and were just in the act of taking hold of their express
package when a wave came and washed them back; the second attempt was
made, and that time they caught the rope and held tight to it. Do you
believe they were scared? Well, they were not; and instead of screaming
and saying, “We shall drown. Oh, don’t let us try it again!” they pulled
at the oars, and with a merry laugh received the package and then rowed
for the shore, laughing and talking. Their package was a guitar, and
no doubt the pleasure of having the instrument caused them to row with
energy. Women and girls can handle a boat about as well as a man, and
they have no more fears of being on water than the farmer’s daughter has
when riding upon the back of a horse.
At almost every station passengers came aboard, and oh how much we did
wish English-speaking people would be of the number, for we did so long
to hear our native language spoken. Almost all who took passage on our
ship went second cabin. The fare was cheaper and the accommodations
accordingly poorer than first cabin. Foreigners don’t mind poor
accommodations; they are used to them at home, and it would be useless to
pay a high price for anything better than what they are used to.
As we traveled on the scenery seemed more grand; mountain peak after
mountain peak was seen in the distance, and the captain, who was always
ready to give us information, said, “Snow is seen upon those mountains
the entire year, and numerous glaciers are sent off on both sides,
extending very nearly down to the sea.” Now a glacier is an immense mass
of snow and ice formed in the regions of perpetual snow. It moves down,
down the mountain side, carrying large rocks along. Would you like to see
one? From the steamer we saw the snow-capped mountains, but a glacier
we never beheld. The cold air which comes from a field of snow and ice
blew down upon us as we stood upon deck, and I drew my heavy winter
shawl more closely about me. The highest of the mountains which I’ve
been telling you about are said to be five thousand feet high. Is it any
wonder that we saw them when far away?
I told you the captain was kind and thoughtful. Well, one day he gave us
a surprise by running his vessel out of its course into a very narrow
fjord. When he knew we were desirous of seeing things of interest along
the route, he aimed to gratify the wish if possible. Our captain was
proud of the scenery of Norway, and whenever he could make time and get
to the different stations when due he showed his passengers favors.
All first cabin passengers were invited to go up on the bridge. Now,
that is where the steersman stands to guide the vessel. There was not a
thing to obstruct the view either ahead or to the right or left of us;
and everybody seemed to be amazed at the outlook. By and by the ship was
steered toward a very narrow looking place, and I said, “Why, you won’t
try to go through there, will you?” and before my question was answered
the ship passed between two high mountains into a small body of water
which seemed scarcely large enough to hold a vessel the size of the Kong
Halfdan. Oh what a picture! It was beautiful! There was the blue sky
overhead, with mountains on both sides of us, and not far away a lovely
waterfall. There was a splendid echo at that point, and when the captain
told us that the mountain to the right was twelve hundred feet high there
was a return sound which repeated the words. The waterfall was fed from
the melting snow of the mountains, and it was a pleasure to watch the
water rush and tumble down the mountain side. The little stones which
lay in its way seemed not to hinder the rushing water, and if perchance
they became loosened all went tumbling together until the water below was
reached, when the stones fell to the bottom, never to rise again.
While the beautiful picture was being admired the captain blew the steam
whistle three or four times, and as the shrill sound was quite unexpected
to us some screamed out loud, and everybody within hearing distance
laughed.
We had not time to tarry long at that place, for it was getting on toward
sundown. It seemed to me the ship was handled as though she were a mere
toy, and the first thing we knew she had been turned around and was out
in the wide fjord, steaming along at a rapid rate. One by one we took the
captain by the hand and thanked him for the pleasure he had given us. You
see, boys and girls, everybody likes to be appreciated, even the captain
of a steamship; and when we saw the weather-beaten face all smiles we
felt pretty sure we had given the captain some pleasure too, for he knew
that the extra pains he had taken was gratifying to every one of the
passengers.
Tromsö is the name of one of the stations along the route, and there
we cast anchor lying by eight hours. All of the passengers but myself
went ashore, and the captain said, “What, don’t you go too? It will be
lonely without the rest of the people.” But I concluded it would be more
pleasant to remain on the steamer and write letters than to go ashore in
a small boat, for somehow I never did fancy the getting in and out of a
small rowboat. My letter writing occupied several hours, and when I had
finished I went on deck where there was enough to entertain me the rest
of the time. Coal, freight and passengers were taken on at Tromsö, and
for a while all was noise and confusion.
Not very far from the ship was a floating buoy. Now, that is a floating
mark to point out the position of objects beneath the water, such as
rocks, sandbars, and anything which might prove disastrous to vessels or
small boats. There are many different kinds of buoys, and each one has a
meaning. The seaman knows them all and reads them like a book.
Out in the bay were a great many little rowboats. One of them attracted
my attention because there were three little boys in it, and I thought,
“How dangerous!” I watched them, however, and saw they were making for
the buoy. By and by they were alongside of it, and the next thing I knew
two of them were sitting astride of it, while the third kept the boat
from drifting away. Now I had decided those little fellows would surely
roll off and perhaps be drowned, and I grew very anxious about their
safety; but after having watched them an hour I concluded they were not
strangers on the water, but knew the buoy well and were used to playing
just where it pleased them.
Their stay was a long one, and not wishing to watch them longer I turned
to the other side of the deck; and there in the water were a dozen or
more eider ducks swimming along as gracefully as could be, seeming not
one bit afraid of the people who rowed past them. Eider ducks frequent
low, rocky places near the coast. Their down is in great demand; it
is used in that country for filling bed-coverlets, and you would be
surprised to know how light in weight coverlets filled with eider down
are. During the breeding season no one is allowed to shoot the eider
ducks, or even to fire off a gun near their nests. Persons who are
thoughtless enough to do so are fined for it. Because of the great care
taken they are very tame, and do not fear man when he comes near them.
The sun was getting pretty low, and the time for starting was near at
hand. I was still on deck, but now my eyes were cast in the direction of
the city. I was looking for a boat that would bring back the passengers
who had gone ashore. In the distance a boat came in view, and taking the
field glass which was near by I pointed it in that direction; and there,
sure enough, was the one I had been, looking for. My joy was complete
when the passengers, including my husband, were all safe on board the
Kong Halfdan.
All those who had gone ashore went expressly to visit a camp of Lapps,
which was about a mile from the landing. The people were very much
surprised to have so many strangers come upon them suddenly, so the
children and dogs—and there were many of them—were badly scared; but
the grown people seemed willing to stand and look. I missed seeing the
camp by remaining back, but I saw many of the Lapps, for they hung about
the ship’s landing. They were a curiosity to us, for their dress was
very odd, which you can see for yourselves by looking at the family in
the picture. There is father, mother and six children. That seems to
be a large family for such a small hut, but the Lapps live very close
together, and the less house room there is, the less work the housewife
has to do.
[Illustration: _Lapp Hut._]
Those people are short in stature, measuring perhaps four or five feet in
height. It is somewhat of a task to tell their complexion. Very little
attention is paid to the care of it, but I’ll say it seemed dark, rather
copper-colored. If their faces were washed no doubt we should find a
complexion altogether different from what has been described. The young
Lapps have quite wrinkled, puckered-up looking faces, and with surprise
you wonder why it is so. But when one takes into consideration the fact
that most of their time is spent out of doors we cannot but conclude that
wind and weather add nothing to their looks.
The Laplanders are an inoffensive class of people, we are told, and
crimes among them are unknown; but they have a failing which I’m sorry to
tell you of; it is that of strong drink. I have watched them pass into
saloons; drunkenness is therefore no uncommon thing among them. What a
dreadful habit to form; and men all over the world have given themselves
over to the demon of strong drink, regardless of the consequences. I wish
it were in my power to write something which would cause every boy who
reads to keep far away from saloons. Look upon me as a friend, my boy
readers, and let me ask you not to touch the vile stuff which is sold
behind the screen. Remember that sadness and distress come to yourselves
and families with the use of it. When tempted to drink do not, I beg of
you, think it is manly to take a sip, and cowardly to refuse; but rather
flee from the tempter and feel thankful you have escaped the fangs of the
great serpent which seemed ready to fasten itself upon you. Ah, I hope
you may never, never forget that death and destruction come with the use
of strong drink! May the Lord stand by and save you from the evil!
Those who visited the camp at Tromsö were especially anxious to see their
herd of reindeer; but the Lapps had already driven them to the mountains
for pasture; so the people were too late. The reindeer eat everything
green in their march to the mountains, and in the winter there is, far
under the snow, a moss which they feed upon and are wonderfully quick in
getting. They are a very useful animal to the Laplander, more so than
horses are to us. The reindeer is harnessed to a sledge in winter and
driven anywhere the Lapp desires to go. Three hundred pounds can be drawn
by them, yet the amount is usually limited to a little over two hundred
pounds.
These animals, as I said before, are quite useful, for the meat is used
for food and the hide for clothing and shoes. They are milked, and butter
and cheese are made from the milk. The milkmaid sometimes has a big time
to get the milking done, for the reindeer doesn’t want to stand still
for her. You know some cows are not willing to be milked; they kick and
move about too freely for the milkmaid’s comfort. Well, the reindeer
doesn’t like milking time any better than the cow; and where there is a
large herd to be milked it is necessary for a Lapp to get among them and
throw a halter around the antlers, so that the animal may be held fast
until milking is finished. You can imagine that man and maid have lively
times while the catching is going on. Did you ever see the picture of a
reindeer? Well, they have immense antlers, which come out from the head
like great branches; and when the animal is full grown the antlers are
very large, spreading far out and requiring a great deal of room. Where
there is a herd of two or three hundred of them they have a big time
among themselves hooking each other.
While on board the Kong Halfdan we had both salt and fresh reindeer meat,
and liked it very much. If you were here now, I would show you a pair of
Lapp shoes. The hide was tanned with the fur on, and in making the shoes
the fur was left on the outside. They are odd looking and quite fanciful
in their make-up.
Spoons and knife handles are made from the horns of the animal, and among
our collection of Norway relics are two small spoons with a great deal
of carving upon them, done by some of the Tromsö Lapps. I can’t say the
carving is fine at all, but it is rather amusing to look at.
Time passed rapidly away, and the eight hours’ stop at Tromsö had ended.
The passengers were all settled and the freight stored away. By and by
the signal for starting was given; the ship turned about, and we steamed
out of the bay. The atmosphere seemed quite cold at times, and we kept
ourselves in our stateroom most of the time, sitting there wrapped in the
steamer rug, passing the time in reading and writing to friends at home.
The rocks and mountains kept us company, for from the porthole we saw
them plainly. First they were to the right, then to the left of us.
One day when sitting in our stateroom the captain called to us and said,
“Come up on deck and see Torghatten.” Now, what do you think that was?
Not one of you could guess, I’m sure, so I’ll just tell you. Torghatten
was a great high mountain with a hole through it. Right close to the top
was a natural tunnel, and daylight could be seen through it plainly from
where we stood. We looked in wonder at the great work of nature, and
thought, “God can do anything.” The earth, and all that is in it, was
made by him; nothing is impossible with him. The forming of a hole in the
top of a mountain is small compared to the many greater things he has
done; and, dear children, will you think often of the Maker of this great
universe? Will you keep in mind what power the Lord has? If so you will
exclaim as I have many times, “How wonderful are thy works, O Lord!”
After passing Torghatten we continued standing on deck; and soon after we
steamed past a great lot of rocks a mile or more wide. They were right
out in the water and it seemed we would surely run on them with our big
ship; but we didn’t, though, and were glad of it too. On these rocks
were hundreds of gray seagulls, and when the steamer went puffing along
they all flew up with a cry of alarm, for they were badly scared. After
finding we intended no harm they all came down again; and as we looked
back we could see them settling contentedly. You surely would have
laughed if you had seen the scared seagulls.
[Illustration: _The Hole in the Mountain._]
Sometimes the ship stopped when far away from a station. We wondered why,
but soon found that a light fog had settled around the ship. It comes
down rather suddenly, and disappears just as suddenly as it comes. Often
the bright sun is seen above, when all around the steamer is fog. The
captain is compelled to stop his vessel and wait until the haze lifts. If
he does not, there is great danger of running on the rocks, which are so
plentiful that he must be cautious, or accidents will happen, and that
would mean a loss of cargo, and lives too.
Along the coast of Norway are valuable mackerel, herring, lobster and cod
fisheries. Several thousand men are employed, and the herring and cod are
caught in immense quantities. Hundreds of pounds of herring and codfish
are taken on at every station. The cod are dried and tied in large
bundles. The herring are usually put down in brine and packed in barrels;
many of them are dried, too, but it seemed that more were salted down.
The people along the coast, as well as those living in the interior of
Norway, eat a great many fish, for the lakes abound in the finest kind of
them. The smallest fish, which are not salable, are fed to the hogs and
chickens.
We had no trouble to get good fresh eggs to eat, for they were brought to
the ship for sale. But at times they could not be eaten with a relish,
as the taste of fish in them was too strong to make them palatable. That
seemed to be a new revelation to us, and we decided that chickens ought
not to be fed anything but the best of feed if an egg with a good taste
is desired.
We saw fish everywhere: dried fish in the hold of the steamer, fish on
the table cooked in many different ways, and live fish in the water;
fish, fish, and no end to the different kinds. Fresh cod, trout and
salmon were served on board the ship, and finer fish we never had the
pleasure of eating. Several times cod liver was presented in our bill of
fare. The seamen consider it a very fine dish. At first we ate but little
of it; and I must say we never did like it as well as many other things
upon the bill of fare.
We stopped to take on passengers and cargo at a small station. The
day was clear and the sun shone beautifully. The people on shore were
standing watching the loading of the ship and the boatmen were pulling
at the oars, trying to get their little rowboats close to the side of
the steamer; and I stood watching all, when my attention was suddenly
drawn to the water, which was beautifully clear; so clear that I was
able to see down, down many feet, and there in its depths I saw swimming
with ease thousands of little codfish. The confusion above seemed not to
frighten them in the least, for they came nearer and nearer the surface.
The little fellows seemed hungry, so forthwith I procured a biscuit and
fed it to them piece by piece. Thus I stood for an hour or more, feeding
and watching them. How swift they were in their movements; for each
little fish was bound to have a nibble. The one which came out victorious
was compelled to eat his bite in a hurry, for there was no time to be
lost. I am confident you would have enjoyed watching those fish, for it
truly was a pleasant pastime.
After leaving the station we passed, to the left of us, a pile of rocks;
and a waterfall seemed to be there too. Taking up the field glass we
looked in the direction of the rocks, when, lo, nothing was to be seen
but a daub of white paint a few feet long and perhaps a foot in width.
Now what did that mean? Nothing but a trap by which to catch salmon. They
are a hard fish to catch, and that invention was intended to lure them on
to where nets were fixed to trap them. You see, the salmon desire fresh
water, and they know it can only be found coming down from the mountain,
so they swim for the supposed waterfall and are caught. The fishermen are
quite ingenious; yet I always felt sorry for the poor fish.
Now do you know what that instance made me think of? Why, the evil one,
who is continually setting traps for innocent children. Boys and girls,
be careful you do not fall into the trap Satan sets for you. When you
are tempted to tell an untruth, or to steal, or to play truant, or to be
disobedient, just say, “I won’t do it,” and think that if you do any of
these things you are getting into a trap which Satan has set to catch you.
Hammerfest was reached at last, and the captain said we might board on
the Kong Halfdan and take trips to land whenever we desired to do so.
It seemed strange indeed to be on land again, and no doubt the people
thought so too, for they looked at us with amazement as we walked up one
street and down another.
There were three or four little children who followed us from street to
street, never saying a word. I asked them if they spoke English, but they
gave no reply. We gave them a small piece of money, and they gave a look
which told that they knew full well what money was. Dinner time came,
still they followed, and I am very much afraid they lost their dinner
that day.
I told you before that there were many fisheries along the coast. Well,
this town seemed wonderfully fishy; there were warehouses in which
were stored dried herring and codfish; then there were factories where
cod-liver oil was made. You would be surprised to know how full the air
was filled with the odor of cod-liver oil. We were told the smell was
healthful, so we took it into our lungs more willingly; yet, if it had
been possible for us to have a choice in the matter, we would gladly have
had the air free from the odor, for surely it was very unpleasant.
Hammerfest is the farthest north of any town on the coast, and one day’s
journey from North Cape, the most northern point on the coast of Norway.
The harbor at this place was full of vessels, both large and small, just
as you see them in the picture, excepting two steamships which were then
anchored far down in the bay. Spitzbergen is a great place for whalers
and seal-hunters. It is four hundred miles from North Cape, the place
where we had expected to go. History tells us that from this place
several attempts have been made to reach the North Pole. Walruses, seals,
foxes, reindeer, bears and birds are to be found there.
[Illustration: _Hammerfest._]
There was a vessel in from Spitzbergen which had been there only a few
hours. As a rule she carried no passengers, but on the last trip one
passenger had been taken aboard; and as there are no staterooms on
sealing vessels, the passenger was given a box up on deck, and there, day
and night, it stayed. The captain asked us if we would like to go over
to the Spitzbergen ship and see the passenger. We said “Yes,” so he had
one of the Kong Halfdan’s seamen take down a boat, and the captain rowed
us out in the bay, over to where the ship was anchored. When we reached
the vessel I thought I would just stand in the small rowboat and look
over the sides; but the captain said, “Oh, but you must go on the sailing
vessel, or you can’t see all that is to be seen.” Now there were no steps
to go up, and no ladder to climb, so how could I get over? Well, seamen
are used to climbing, and think everybody else is too; so he said, “Put
one foot here, and the other up there, and then you will get up without
trouble.” I did as he directed, and in a little while I was on deck and
looking around.
What did I see? Why, the hold of the ship packed full of fresh seal
pelts. After killing the animals, they skinned them. The meat is thrown
away, and the skins are taken to the hold of the ship, spread out, and
salted right there. The next thing I saw was their passenger, and what do
you think it was? A bear, a real live bear, and just fresh from the polar
regions. It was about five months old, and just as white as white polar
bears are.
The sailor who captured the bear said it fought nobly for freedom, and in
the conflict he was unfortunate enough to have been bitten. The mother
lost her life in the fight, and the hide hung near by to tell the story.
In loud, pitiful tones the orphaned bear called for its mother; but no
answer came back to it. I do not know where the cub found a home; but it
was shipped to Throndhjem, and from there was to be sent to a museum. We
were glad to leave the Spitzbergen ship and return to our own, for the
mournful sound of the motherless white polar bear was not agreeable to us.
There had been a great fire in the town of Hammerfest, completely
destroying the finest residences and best hotels just the winter before
we reached there. It was thought the whole town would surely succumb and
be burned to ashes. Our ship was the best hotel, and we were fortunate to
get plenty to eat and a comfortable bed to sleep in. A change of quarters
would have been pleasant if a good hotel could have been found; but as it
was we were very well satisfied.
Hammerfest was the last stopping place along the line, and some of the
sailors were off duty while the ship lay by at this place. About the
first thing searched for is usually a saloon, and there is never any
trouble to find one, for there are plenty of places where the poor
fellows may find entertainment with cards and strong drink.
We had been on land a few hours and returned for luncheon, when our
attention was attracted to a sailor upon the street who had indulged
too freely in the use of whisky. He walked with unsteady gait to the
ship landing, where eight or a dozen steps led to the boats in the water
below. No one could reach the steamer without descending the stairway
and going in the rowboats; and we wondered how any person with such
tottering steps could descend without falling into the water. So we
watched, and he went down step by step stumbling, yet catching himself
again and again. His comrades saw him, and taking one of the ship’s
boats rowed for the drunken sailor, reaching him just as his weakened
knees gave way. Headlong he pitched into the boat, and with a splash his
feet went into the water. That was a trying time for the boatman, but he
seemed equal to the occasion, and by tugging and pulling succeeded in
getting the poor fellow into the boat, feet and all. With a steady row
and in silence the side of the steamer was gained, and with plenty of
help the unfortunate one was pulled through a small door in the side of
the ship. He disappeared, and nothing more was seen of him till the next
day, when, rather long faced, he was seen on duty.
Now, children, you may be amused while reading this little incident of
a drunken sailor, but just let me tell you that I was disgusted, and
thought of the words of Solomon when he said, “Wine is a mocker, strong
drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise.” The
drunken sailor knew not what he was doing, and was unwise when he partook
of strong drink. Now, boys, I’ll give you something to learn, and as long
as you shall live, don’t ever forget it: “Woe unto them that rise up
early in the morning, that they may follow strong drink; that continue
until night, till wine inflame them!” “Who hath woe? who hath sorrow? who
hath contentions? who hath babblings? who hath wounds without cause?
who hath redness of eyes? They that tarry long at the wine; they that go
to seek mixed wine. Look not thou upon the wine when it is red, when it
giveth his color in the cup, when it moveth itself aright. At the last it
biteth like a serpent, and stingeth like an adder. My son, give me thine
heart, and let thine eyes observe my ways.”
May the Lord bless you, boys, and keep you from the drunkard’s cup.
There was nothing of great importance to be seen in Hammerfest, so we
decided to make the return trip on the same steamer, which would leave
after the cargo had been discharged. August twenty-sixth the anchor was
hauled in and we started.
There was a little change in the return route, which gave us a sail
of a day or so on the Arctic Ocean. We had not gone far till the wind
rose, and we had what the captain called an “Arctic storm.” The steamer
was small, so it rolled and pitched a good deal. Oh how we wished to be
out of that place! But one must put up with storms, and there is no use
complaining about it either, for it does not help matters one bit, and a
person is no happier.
There was a whaling station on the route, and the captain showed his
kindness by telling some of the passengers that if they were so minded
they could visit the camp. When my husband and a young German decided to
go, the captain ordered the sailors to take a ship’s boat and row them
there and back again. The sea was very rough, so I decided to remain
where I was, and not venture in a boat smaller than the Kong Halfdan.
It was thought by the men that I had acted wisely in not accompanying
them. The camp was found in a miserably dirty condition, for whales in
different stages of decomposition were seen all around it. The fat of the
decayed animals was thrown into a vat and rendered just as we render the
fat of a hog. Very large vats of boiling oil were to be seen, and the
odor sickened those who were not used to it; and I’m sure it would have
sickened me too.
For three days the weather was unpleasant, and a good share of that time
I stayed in my stateroom. A great deal of rain falls in Norway during
the summer, and it is quite necessary to carry rain-cloaks and a rubber
blanket to throw over the baggage. These things are more needful to those
traveling on land, because they are more exposed to the weather than
persons who travel on water. We were well supplied with the necessary
wraps, yet had but little use for them.
Sunday was the fifth day on the return trip, and the sun came out bright
and clear. Even though it was Sunday the sailors worked faithfully taking
on and off freight. We made a stop at a little village whose houses
extended down to the water. A little white church, with green grass
around it, looked so cozy standing in the beautiful sunlight. The bells
were ringing and the sound came over the water to us. What a cheerful
sound! and it created a desire within us to go and worship with the
gathering congregation. We could not go ashore, for the steamer might
leave us behind; and that would never do. Many barrels of herring were
taken aboard that day, and four hours passed before we steamed away;
plenty of time to have gone ashore had we known it; but the privilege of
mingling our prayers with those of the little congregation had passed
away forever.
Our ship was heavily laden with salted and dried fish, besides several
hundred barrels of whale oil. All deck room was taken up, and only a
narrow space was left us to walk upon. Passengers got on and every
stateroom was occupied; besides many beds were made up in the dining
saloon, and we were pretty well crowded.
We found the Kong Halfdan was not in very good repair, for there seemed
to be a good deal of tinkering done to the boiler; day and night, by
spells, we heard the hammering. Upon inquiry we found the boiler had been
leaking, and that it was not an easy matter to patch it up. When the
sea washed the deck, or a hard rain came, the water dripped down in our
stateroom, splashing dirty water on such articles as were near. Time did
not pass any too swiftly for us, and we were glad to know that only a few
days more and our feet would be on mother earth again.
The scenery was grand all along the route, but the bad condition of the
ship kept us from enjoying it to the fullest extent. You must surely know
it is not a pleasant thought to be in a position where you are unable
to help yourself if an accident should happen. It is not best to borrow
trouble; yet there are times when it seems impossible to keep from doing
so.
One morning about six o’clock we were awakened from a sound sleep by
a peculiar grating noise. The steamer had struck a reef of rocks, and
I shall never forget the sensation. With one bound we were out of our
berths, and, with but few words passing between us, dressed hastily. We
knew full well that if a hole had been broken in the ship, with such a
heavy cargo only a short time could pass before she would sink. Upon
examination it was found that the propeller was injured, but not badly.
In a few days after we steamed into Throndhjem Bay safely, and our hearts
were filled with gratitude to the Lord for his watchful care. We were
glad to have an opportunity to see so much of nature, for by it many good
sermons were preached to us, and these words filled our mind, “O Lord,
how great are thy works; and thy thoughts are very deep.”
[Illustration]
CHAPTER IV.
_The Story of a German Boy.—The Priest.—Catholic Woman.—Corps
of Singers.—My Singing Lesson.—Funeral Procession.—Children
Playing.—Wooden Shoes.—Neatness of the German Children.—Their
Politeness.—Cologne.—Its Cathedral.—Height of Towers.—Odd
Costumes.—Art Gallery.—The Picture I Saw._
I am going to tell you something about Germany now, but will first tell
you of a boy who lived there many years ago. He had father, mother,
brothers and sisters, and as a family they were very poor. The father
worked hard in the copper mines, along with many other men in the
settlement, and at home the mother worked equally hard looking after
the comfort of the family and carrying upon her back the wood which
was needed. She was a good, kind, Christian mother, and it is said she
frequently “communed with God in prayer.”
Those times everybody belonged to the Roman Catholic church; consequently
every father and mother taught the children to believe fully—as they
themselves did—in the “Holy Catholic Church.” This boy was the eldest of
the family and was the first to be educated. As he neared the age when it
would be necessary to send him away to school the parents became anxious.
They knew they could ill afford to do it, as they had scarcely money
enough for their daily need and no chance of getting more. There seemed
to be one way in which they might be enabled to save a little more money,
and that was by living still more economically; and by putting their
thoughts into practice enough money was saved to give the son a start in
school. Not many miles distant from the boy’s home was a select school,
and thither the father and son went shortly after money enough had been
saved. The support which his father gave him was not sufficient to cover
expenses, so the lad was finally obliged to help himself, which was done
by singing from door to door. As a reward small pieces of money were
given him. The strictest economy was practiced by the folks at home and
the son also, and as a reward for all their trouble they learned that the
boy for whom they were making those sacrifices was studious and worked
hard and faithfully.
Time rolled on, the boy had grown to manhood and become a great teacher.
He seemed strong in the Romish faith and willing to make sacrifices for
his church. By and by the duty of becoming a priest or monk was impressed
upon him, and as soon as possible he wrote his intentions to his father.
The reply to the letter was not favorable. As the new move was very
displeasing to the parents, they said that if such a step should be taken
further affection would be renounced. Those words availed nothing, for
the vow was taken and the young priest was received into the order with
prayers and hymns of joy.
As the priest grew older his work in the church increased, and that
caused him to read and study the Bible more diligently, and in so doing
he found he was not serving the Lord fully.
Years passed away, and the young priest became dissatisfied with his
religion and decided to follow what he found to be the teachings of
the Bible. In the course of time, and after much trouble, he separated
himself from the Romish church, and from that time on his life was in
great danger, for the Catholics were very bitter toward him. The Lord is
thoughtful of his children, so he watched over this good man and allowed
him to live many years after.
Now whom do you imagine I’ve been writing about? Well, I shall tell you.
It was Martin Luther, the founder of the state church of Germany, which
is known throughout the world as the Lutheran church; and now almost
everybody in Germany belongs to the state church, and not the Catholic
church, as in the time of Martin Luther. This man’s name is held high
above all and his portrait is to be seen in almost every German home.
Many of the beautiful churches which were owned by the Catholics are now
used and owned by the Lutherans.
One day while out walking with a Catholic woman we passed a large
cathedral, and with trembling voice she said, “This belonged to our
people one time, but it is ours no more.” I felt sorry, and thought, “No
wonder your heart is sad, for surely your house of worship is a very poor
one compared to this;” for it was in a back street and dark and gloomy
looking. The woman had nothing to feel proud of, therefore lamented.
We happened to be in Germany on the four hundredth anniversary of
Luther’s birthday, and a big day it was; there were processions and
illuminations all over the city. The house in which Luther lived while
in Halle was finely decorated with evergreen, and the gas jets were
beautiful. It was not hard to tell where Catholics lived, for their
houses alone were without lights. It was plain to be seen that no one
stands higher in the minds of the people than Martin Luther.
Many of the students attending college in Germany make part of their
expenses as did Martin Luther, by singing from door to door. Their voices
are well trained, and when a square or two from them, the whole company
of voices seemed like four voices, their singing accorded so well. The
corps of singers is composed of a dozen or more young men, and though
their size varies their dress is alike, for they wear black suits of
clothing; the vest is cut low, exposing the shirt bosom; the coat is cut
swallow-tail, and upon the head a plug hat is worn. Their ages range from
twelve to sixteen years, and you may imagine how very odd the company
looked to us. There is a leader who stands before them beating time, and
I don’t believe any one of them miscalculates the length of a note or
rest in the piece of music sung. I am sure many of you never heard finer
singing.
Germans, as a rule, are fine singers, and you hear plenty of singing even
while walking upon the streets. One time we were awakened from a sound
sleep by singing on the street. We looked out of the window and beheld a
company of soldiers all singing as they marched along. Little boys and
girls go home from school, walking along leisurely and singing beautiful
hymns and songs.
We were living with a family who had several children, and one of them, a
little girl about seven years of age, dearly loved to sing. This little
girl insisted upon my helping her, but I said, “I cannot sing in German,”
when immediately she replied, “I will teach you my tune.” The task was
begun, and after a great deal of laughing and many corrections I was able
to sing her hymn, “_Stille Nacht_” (Stilly Night). Quickly she ran to her
mother and told the news, and I was congratulated, for the family thought
I had done a wonderful thing. To tell the truth, I was equally well
pleased, and afterward took pleasure in singing my German hymn.
You may think, by the way I have been writing, that everything in the old
world moves along pleasantly, and that the children are always well and
happy. I would not have you think so, because sorrow and distress are
there, as well as in this country.
In looking out of my window, which was quite often, I saw that which was
amusing, and also some things which were very sad. One day a funeral
procession passed by, and it consisted of father and mother. Four pall
bearers carried a casket containing the corpse of a little child. The
rain came down fast, and equally fast fell the tears of sorrow from their
eyes as slowly they moved along. There was no hearse, and no carriages.
Why? Because the people were poor; it would take money for these things,
and there was none to spare. Ah, how my heart ached for them, and I
turned from my window with tearful eyes. Poverty is to be found on all
sides, and since it is impossible to help all we learn to cast the
distressing sights from our minds and leave them with the One who watches
over and cares for all.
An American is surprised at the cleanliness of German cities. It is no
uncommon sight to see well-dressed ladies walking in the middle of the
streets. Their shoes and skirts will not be soiled any quicker by walking
there than on the sidewalk. We feel ashamed when we compare the dirty
streets of American cities with the clean, well-swept streets of Germany,
and in our hearts we wished ours might be different.
Houses are built three stories high; each floor is arranged for one
family, but sometimes there are as many as three families living on one
floor, each having no more than one room in which to sleep, cook, eat and
sit. I knew a family of five who lived in one room; and they seemed to be
well satisfied too.
No matter where one goes he is sure to see many children, and they seem
to have as good a time playing as any of you. They run, jump and make as
much noise too. Many times I stood at my window in Halle and watched the
little folks play on the opposite side of the street. One time I counted
fifteen boys and girls playing, and their ages seemed to be from five
to ten years; and—don’t you think?—they all belonged to the same house.
Now you might think their little feet pattering on the floor would make
a great noise, but they don’t, because all wear felt slippers in the
house; even the fathers and mothers wear them. In Germany the floors are
not carpeted as in this country, but almost all of them are bare. Where
families are in good circumstances nice rugs are used; where there are
no rugs the floors are sanded, and you can’t imagine how strange it does
seem to walk on sanded floors. Felt slippers are fine things to keep the
feet warm, and I know the little folks over there would have cold toes
all the time if it were not for those comfortable slippers.
Wooden shoes and slippers are worn quite a good deal, and many times I
laughed heartily when the little boys and girls ran. No matter whether I
was looking out of the window or sitting back in the room, I could always
tell when they had commenced their running. Do you wonder how I knew it?
Why, just by the noise they made. I presume many of you never saw a pair
of wooden shoes or slippers. Well, that doesn’t make any difference,
for I never saw a pair until I went to the Old Country,—I have learned
since then that there are plenty of wooden shoes in America, and not so
many miles from where I am living. There is a difference between shoes
and slippers. Just take one of your old shoes, tear off the leather
excepting the part that covers the toes, then substitute a wooden sole
instead of a leather one, and you can imagine how they look. You would
naturally suppose it to be quite a task to keep such a foot covering on
when running; but you will be surprised to know they did not seem one bit
bothered, and I am pretty sure the German children can run just as fast
as any of you. Sometimes they stop to shove their toes farther into the
slipper, after which they run as fast as ever. And now why did I laugh?
Because of the great noise all the little wooden slippers made. What made
them make a noise? Why, the sole of the slipper flying up and down. At
regular intervals you could hear a noise that sounded like clap, clap,
clap, and the faster the children ran the more clap, claps we could hear;
somehow this was always very amusing to me.
Many of the Germans are poor; yes, very poor; and yet,—don’t you
know?—with all their poverty, the children’s clothing never looked
ragged. Their clothing is sometimes made of very coarse material, and
often many patches are to be seen, but no tatters. They all wore woolen
stockings, knit by hand; not one time did I see the bare heel of a child
sticking out. All stockings were well darned. Could not some of our
American mothers learn lessons of carefulness and economy from these poor
German women?
Let me tell you something, little girls. You who are old enough to read
are old enough to do a little sewing too, and how nice it would be for
you to take hold and learn now! Long years ago I was a little girl; one
time,—when ten years old,—my sister said, “Lizzie, when a tiny little
hole comes in your stocking, it is a good plan to darn it right away;
then you will never have to darn a great big hole, which seems so trying
to the patience.” The advice was good, and I followed it accordingly; to
this day I have never felt sorry for the advice of long ago. Will you
think of it too, little girls?
Children in the Old Country are taught to be very polite. It made no
difference where they saw us, a bow and “_Guten Morgen_” (Good morning)
was the greeting. Even though we did not know the names of the little
girls and boys, it seems they knew us, having learned to know we lived
on the same street they did. Don’t you think it is a good thing to be
polite? I wonder why little folks here act rude and pass by those who
speak to them, acting as though they never knew the gentleman or lady
who spoke? Perhaps teachers and parents forget to teach the little ones
politeness.
Writing about poverty brings to my mind the little boys and girls who
ate bread spread with lard instead of butter. And now I wonder how many
of you, my little readers, would enjoy that kind of fare. No doubt you
will say, “Oh, how horrid;” but let me tell you that those children ate
their bread with a relish, and maybe you would too if you knew there was
nothing better for you. They learned to know almost everything tastes
good when one is hungry.
The Old World is full of relics of the past, and there is scarcely a city
that does not have a church, art gallery or museum in which one might
spend much time and be greatly edified.
We spent several days in Cologne, and by hiring a carriage for a
couple of hours had a splendid opportunity of seeing the city, which
is beautifully situated upon the left bank of the river Rhine. At one
time a very thick wall surrounded the city and it was pierced with four
gates. Only a small portion of wall attached to the gates is to be seen
now, for the rest has been removed. Outside of the old gateways there are
beautiful residences, and great pains are taken to beautify the front
dooryards. The streets in the old part of the city are crooked, narrow
and not very clean looking, but in the new portion they are quite the
reverse.
Cologne is an old city, and there are many very old churches which we
found to be interesting, not only because of their age, but because of
the works of art; for these are paintings which were done by the best
painters the world knew. In this city is a fine church, or cathedral,
which greatly attracts the attention of tourists, and many of them
travel hundreds of miles just to see it, and it alone. It is a very
large structure, therefore has had many, many years of work put upon it;
even while we were looking around the workmen were busily engaged in
hammering. The cathedral is built in the form of a cross and is said to
be four hundred and eighty feet long, two hundred and eighty-two feet
wide, and the height of the central aisle one hundred and fifty-four
feet. Just notice in the picture how far above the houses the towers
extend. Well, when they are completed their height will be upwards of
five hundred feet. There is a chime of bells, six in number, up in the
tower, and the heaviest of the bells weighs eleven tons. With that chime
music was made, and it was such a pleasure to sit in my room, which was
not far away, and listen to the beautiful tunes as they were played
one by one. The windows in the _Dom Kirche_—for it is known by that
name—were all presented at different times, and are richly colored, each
one representing some Bible character, the Virgin Mary being the central
figure in some of them. For the sum of one and a half marks each we were
admitted into the treasury where were stored many costly things, such as
jewels, gold and silver ornaments and many other things of great value.
The high choir and chapel were not open to visitors free, but after
high mass was celebrated those who visited the treasury were allowed to
see all the rest. But I shall not write any longer on this subject, for
possibly you may tire of it.
In traveling through Germany we noticed in certain localities that the
women wore very odd looking costumes. The skirts were extremely full,
and in length reached the knee. Some wore very long white stockings,
and others wore black ones, all wearing very low slippers. The hair was
combed up on the very top of the head, and for a bonnet a sort of a
box was worn, just large enough to cover the top of the head and hair.
They were the most oddly dressed women we ever did see, and—don’t you
know?—they did not attract extra attention from the passers-by. No doubt
this way of dressing had been handed down from generation to generation;
therefore everybody living in that locality was used to it.
[Illustration: _Cathedral at Cologne._]
The Germans are great people for pictures, oil paintings, etc., and works
of the great masters are to be seen in their galleries. One could spend
hours wandering from gallery to gallery, studying the paintings one by
one; for the more we look at fine pieces of art the more we admire them.
Not only do we admire the man who did the work, but through him think of
the Divine Hand which gave the mind to the great artist.
While in Munich, a large city in Germany, we visited a gallery of very
fine paintings. Among those in which we were particularly interested was
an immense painting of the judgment day. There, seated in a chair, was
the judge, and in the foreground were to be seen graves, some opening and
others already open. Both men and women were to be seen coming forth,
and as they stepped from their graves they started for the judge; and
they soon found on which side they belonged. Only a few were to be seen
sitting on the right side, and the rest disappeared with faces ghastly
and full of distress; and those who were seated on the right side of the
judge had faces beaming with pleasure. While looking at this work of art
I could not help but call to mind the portion of Scripture which says,
“Depart from me, I never knew you,” etc. The painting was to represent
the Son of Man sitting upon the throne and judging all the nations
of the earth. It was only a picture and work of man, but it was good
enough to make an impression on my mind, for it caused me to think of
the distress which awaits all who do not do the Lord’s bidding, and so
are unprofitable servants. I have found it pays to be a true follower
of Christ, for there is joy unspeakable in serving him. I hope you will
think seriously of the salvation of your souls. Be lambs in the fold of
Christ, so that you may have the happy privilege of being seated at the
right hand of the great Judge on the last day.
[Illustration]
CHAPTER V.
_Calais.—English Channel Experience.—Reaching the Pier.—Going
Ashore.—London.—The Fog.—Show Lights.—British Museum.—National
Gallery.—The Tricky Monkey.—Westminster Abbey.—The Tower._
The next point of interest to be visited was London, England; so early
one morning we took the train at Cologne, traveled all day, and arrived
after dark at Calais, a town of France. At this point we left the railway
and went aboard the steamer which conveys passengers and mail across the
Channel to Dover, a distance of perhaps twenty-six miles.
There is a fine harbor at Calais, but owing to the darkness of the night
we were not able to see it then. There was not a moment of time to lose,
for the steamer was ready to start back on her return trip to Dover.
There were but few passengers on board that evening, and down deep in
my heart I wished we had been among the number who had wisdom enough to
remain on shore. But one is not always able to see the danger which may
be ahead, and must therefore suffer the consequences.
As soon as the steamer left the harbor we felt very sure a trying time
was in store for us; but it was too late to turn back, so we tried to
make the best of the situation by making ourselves comfortable. The
English Channel is affected very much by storms on the coasts, and at
such times the waters become greatly troubled; so much so that ships are
wrecked and many lives lost. On this particular day a very severe storm
raged; it had started on the Irish coast and by the time the Channel
was reached there was a genuine cyclone. The wind blew a gale and the
breakers dashed against the steamer until the little thing rolled and
pitched shockingly. Truly we were in dangerous waters, and we were made
to feel it more keenly after hearing an order given to the sailors to
“take down the life-buoys.” Never before in our journeyings by sea had
such an order been given in our hearing; so you may believe it made me
sick at heart. Seasickness did not trouble us, strange to say, though the
steward came to us often, thinking perhaps we should need assistance; but
there was nothing needed excepting a quiet sea. Each time the man came
around husband asked, “How are we getting along now? Shall we soon be
over?” and the reply came, “This is a very bad night, sir; but we hope to
make the pier.”
Seasickness would have been a small thing to endure compared to the
distress which followed, for by this time my nerves were unstrung and I
was in agony. Nothing could be done but bear the distress, and silently I
groaned prayer after prayer to the Father above. Very few were my words,
for I remembered the Lord did not hear us alone for our much speaking,
and in such a perilous situation one does not stop to choose the words he
may utter. Again and again I groaned, “O Lord, keep thy watchful eye upon
us; and I pray thee keep thy children from the dangers of this angry
sea.” We placed ourselves in the hands of the Lord, and oh what a feeling
of security there was; and in the words of the Psalmist we were able to
say, “The Lord, he is my refuge and my fortress: my God, in him will I
trust.” Yes, even though our bodies trembled, our hearts were strong in
him, and we trusted. The Lord had been especially good to us, not because
we were deserving, but perhaps because he wanted us a little longer on
the earth that his servant—my husband—might have a longer time in which
to tell of the “truths of God’s Word.”
We read that “they that seek the Lord shall not want any good thing,”
and in my Christian experience I have found the blessings were beyond my
hope. “Come, ye children, hearken unto me: I will teach you the fear of
the Lord.” He desires boys and girls in his kingdom. Will you seek him
early? Remember Samuel; he was but a child when he “ministered before the
Lord.” And then think of Daniel; what a good young man he was, for we
read that he had an excellent spirit and “he was faithful; neither was
there any error or fault found in him.” That was a good recommendation;
but we learn more about him; he prayed, and was not ashamed of it
either; for we read of a decree which had been signed by king Darius
and sent out. It said, “Whosoever shall ask a petition of any god or
man for thirty days, save of thee, O king, he shall be cast into the
den of lions.” Daniel no doubt felt badly when he heard of the decree;
but nevertheless he went three times a day and prayed as had been his
custom. The result you know.
My young readers, do you want good examples of Christians? then pattern
after these boys of whom I have written. The Lord watched over them; he
delivered Daniel from the lion’s den into which he had been cast for
praying. Do you know he will help you to bear the scoffs and jeers of
your comrades if you should forsake them and follow him? You know “Jesus
said unto Simon, Fear not”? And to you he says the same. Will you think
of these things?
In thinking over the experience on the Channel I call to mind a sound
which, though far away, proved to be soothing in its effect. I imagine
you say, What was it? So I’ll tell you that while lying upon my couch
that night I heard a sailor off in a distant part of the steamer hurrying
around performing his duties; and while doing so he whistled in a
cheery, joyful tone. The waves were breaking high then, and perhaps the
sailor never thought the sound would reach the ears of any one except
his comrades who were rushing around near by him. But a current of wind
brought the music to me and from now till I leave this world I shall
never forget that whistling. For a few minutes self was forgotten and my
nerves quieted, and then there came an end to the whistling, for a voice
called loudly, “She is fast;” and that meant the pier had been gained.
But joy did not come then, for the next thing we knew we were steaming
out to sea again, rolling and pitching as hard as ever.
Twice the attempt was made to gain the landing, but each time the heavy
breakers washed the vessel away. The third attempt was made and success
crowned the effort, when immediately after came the order, “Make haste
and go ashore.” This order was given to the passengers, and as soon as
possible we all undertook the difficult task of getting to the passageway
which led to land. The breakers dashed furiously over the side of the
steamer and great banks of water poured down upon Our heads and backs,
for we stood still with faces turned from the direction of the breaking
waves. We scarcely knew how to reach shore without help, for the water
came with a dash at regular intervals, making it almost impossible for
us to walk. Thinking the sailor might assist us in landing I ventured to
ask him, saying, “Oh, will you not help us over the passageway?” but the
answer came, “No, madam, I dare not.” There was nothing to hinder him
from helping us while upon the boat, so taking my hand we hurried along
over the deck until the inclined passageway was gained, when he left me
to stumble on in the dark. Rain cloaks were of little service that night,
for the salt sea water went through them, and consequently the clothing
was dripping wet.
Land was gained at last, and immediately we entered the cars which were
waiting to carry passengers and mail on to London. After getting our
breath we looked around, and to our utter surprise found that the seats
and floor had been drenched with water which had entered through the
windows, which had been broken by the waves dashing against them while
the cars were standing upon the pier. The admiralty pier is a massive
structure extending out into the sea; and during the storm some of the
immense stones were washed out and carried away. Papers of the following
day gave full accounts of the storm, and the record of shipwrecks was
enormous. It is said the like of such a storm had not been known for
many, many years. I think the memory of it will abide with me while life
shall last, and I shall always feel that the Lord watched over us and
heard our prayers.
Twelve o’clock that night we reached the great city of London, and it was
in a drenching rain. We were taken to a hotel a long distance from the
depot, which place we called home for three weeks. When my health allowed
me, I accompanied my husband to places of interest, but there were very
many days when I was not able to bear the noise upon the streets, so
remained within the cheerless hotel room. All large cities are cheerless
and disagreeable in rainy weather; but it seemed to me the city of
London was the most disagreeable one of all, for there was a great deal
of rain and much foggy weather at that time. The fog becomes very dense
sometimes, and those times it is quite dangerous to be upon the streets.
The city is well lighted, and yet when the fog comes down the lights seem
to be of but little use. Teamsters call out, “Show lights! show lights!”
and as soon as possible the people place lights in every window of their
houses. People who are out walking are unable to know when a horse is
near them, and no doubt many are trampled under the horses’ feet.
We visited many places of great interest while in this large city, and
though I shall not be able to tell of all the attractive objects seen I
will briefly mention a few of them. The British Museum was only a few
blocks from our hotel, so much of our time was spent there looking at the
relics which had been collected from all parts of the world.
There is a “National Gallery” in London, and there you find paintings
of noted artists on exhibition. Almost every day in the week it is open
to the public free; so a great many people spend hours looking at the
beautiful work of man, which is done either with pencil or brush. Many of
the old artists took much pleasure in painting the “Madonna and Child,”
and that means Mary and Jesus; and in almost every instance the face of
the mother is wonderfully beautiful; the child is plump in body and has
a round, full face. Joseph and his brethren, John the Baptist, and other
Bible characters were there, for it seems that noted artists of long ago
spent their time in putting on canvas what they imagined the saints of
old looked like; and most of them are represented as being fine looking
men.
It is impossible for me to write you a description of all the interesting
pieces of art on exhibition there, so we shall leave the Gallery and
visit the Zoological Gardens, for it seemed to be an attractive place
for old and young people. Animals of all countries may be seen there,
and who is it that does not desire to see animals of foreign lands? We
spent one afternoon there, and in our wanderings saw the rhinoceros and
hippopotamus—both natives of Africa. Then there were the great, clumsy
looking elephants, some of which were allowed to walk about without
chains. One of them had a large platform fixed upon his back, and for a
certain sum of money any one who desired could have a ride up one avenue
and down another. There was a man to lead the animal, and you would be
surprised to know how many boys, girls and middle-aged people took the
ride. We watched them, but got no closer.
Children enjoy looking at monkeys, and on the afternoon we were at the
Gardens there were numbers of them at the monkey cages throwing in
crackers, apples and cakes; and oh how the little folks laughed when
a monkey hung by his tail from the perch, or undertook the task of
scratching his neighbor’s head. They are wonderfully tricky; so every
one is cautioned to keep away from the cages, to not get too close to
the wires. Here and there were printed cards which said, “Persons with
spectacles keep away.” You see the monkeys had a habit of snatching off
the glasses, and that accounted for the warning.
A young girl with her lover stood close to the cage that afternoon. She
was decked in the height of style, with an immense bunch of flowers upon
her hat; and over her face was a thin vail. One of the tricky fellows
quick jumped up, ran his thin paws out between the wires and in an
instant had the little face vail in his paws; and jumping on the perch
sat there and tore it in shreds, while occasionally shy glances were cast
at the young girl whose crimson face told of the embarrassment felt, for
all eyes were upon her. Every one around laughed, and the children could
hardly forget the cunning little monkey.
If one of these little fellows saw you put your hand in your pocket,
he was sure you would bring out something for him; and if you gave him
nothing there was a look of disappointment.
The lions, tigers and hyenas were visited next, and we found them
growling, and prancing back and forth. It was feeding time, and
the keeper gave them great chunks of raw meat, which they devoured
ravenously. But evening was drawing near, so we left there and went to
our hotel, reaching there in time for dinner,—the evening meal.
Westminster Abbey is a church, and it is a sacred place for the English
people, for in it are to be seen the tombs of kings, queens and other
noted people. In looking around one is impressed with the thought of
age; and no wonder, for we read that the Abbey had been destroyed by the
Danes, and re-erected by King Edgar in the year 985. But it seems to have
been “entirely rebuilt in the latter half of the 13th century by Henry
the Third and his son Edward the Fifth, who left it substantially in its
present condition.” The Abbey seems almost like a graveyard, for as you
pass up one aisle and down another you behold large monuments erected in
memory of noble men who fell in battle.
How strange it seemed to be standing by the tombs of kings and queens of
whom we had read when school children. There in a vault were the remains
of Charles the Second, William the Third, and Queen Mary his wife. And
further on was the monument of Queen Elizabeth. I might go on and write
many pages of what we saw there, but must leave the gloomy, dismal
place. I wondered how people could worship in a place where there is such
a grand display of monuments and tombs.
The Tower of London is said to be the most interesting spot in England.
It is found outside of the bounds of the ancient city walls. It has four
entrances,—the “Iron Gate, the Water Gate, and the Traitor’s Gate.” These
gates are on the side next to the river Thames. The men who act as guards
are called “Wardens or Beef-eaters.” I think every one of them is a very
old man. The strange term beef-eater is explained as being “a nickname
bestowed upon the ancient yeomen of the guard from the fact that rations
of beef were regularly served out to them when on duty.”
In the Tower is the armory, where may be seen implements of war and
torture, figures of horses almost as natural looking as life, and
soldiers seated upon their backs equipped for war; a good representation
of how the warriors of the time of king Charles First and William the
Conqueror looked when ready for fight. There we saw the beheading block,
axe and mask which were used in the dreadful work of sending people into
eternity.
There is a chapel which no visitors are allowed to enter, and in it are
buried celebrated persons who were beheaded. In the year 1535 the first
person was executed, and in the following year, 1536, Queen Anne Boleyn
was beheaded upon the green; and we stood near the spot where the bloody
deed was done, for a marble slab marks the place. When looking at the
beheading block we could not help but think of the untold agony it could
tell were it but able to speak. Many noted people, both men and women,
were at different times imprisoned in the Tower, placed there to await
the time of execution. But sometimes one of them would be murdered there,
while others again were tortured and then taken away to be burned as
heretics. Those were distressing times, and innocent people suffered.
There are on exhibition in the Tower the crown of Queen Victoria and
many solid gold vessels. Among the collection were beautiful golden
saltcellars. One of them was made in imitation of a large castle and is
beautifully studded with precious stones. There were staffs and scepters
which sparkled with diamonds as they lay in the sunlight. Policemen
guarded well the case which contained them, for not every person is
honest who looks at them, and attempts have been made to break through
the case.
Days seemed to go by rapidly, and three times Sunday came while we were
in London. It was usually a quiet day for a city, as only a few teams
passed on the street in front of our hotel. ’Bus horses had a season of
rest then, for they run on half time. Stores were closed, and even the
hotel employees had rest, for only two meals were allowed the guests.
The whole city had a restful air which made one think the most of the
inhabitants had gone to some place of worship.
There is a house of worship called the “Temple Church,” and Dr. Parker
is the minister; so we decided to go to hear him. The church was
crowded with people, for it proved to be the day of their harvest home
meeting,—something entirely new to us. We were favored with a good seat
and not far from the stand where the learned doctor stood. Upon this
rostrum was a mass of flowers, fruits, vegetables and bread, all arranged
tastefully; yet they did seem to be very much out of place in a church.
However, we overlooked that when we found that each article there was a
free-will offering for the poor and sick, given by any one, and presented
to those who were in need of them. Sick people were the recipients of
flowers, and the bread and vegetables went to the poor and destitute.
At the close of our harvests we sometimes gather together and have a
harvest meeting; but we are not thoughtful enough to bring an offering of
the fruit of our land, as did the English people. If we are blessed with
an abundance would it not be well to divide with less favored ones?
Well, Dr. Parker preached an excellent sermon, and his prayer was so
comforting. Willingly would we have remained longer in the church, but
that was out of the question; so we passed out with the crowd into the
street, and to the place we tried hard to call home. Each Sunday some
place of worship was attended, but we rather preferred Dr. Parker to any
other minister.
Time seemed to pass rapidly away, and by and by we bade adieu to London,
crossed over the Channel and found ourselves safe in France. The English
Channel was rather smooth and the steamer crowded with passengers who had
been waiting for the storm to cease. The passage was delightful, and I
enjoyed the trip as much as a person with shattered nerves might expect
to enjoy it. After riding in the cars three or four hours we reached
the city of Paris, and that you know is the capital of France, and a
very large city. We were there four weeks. Each day we visited places
of interest, such as public buildings, palaces and cathedrals, public
squares and cemeteries. Of the last named there is one called Pere la
Chaise. It contains one hundred and six and a half acres. It is laid out
in avenues and seems almost like a city, with its grand tombs, large
enough to hold many, many people. We noticed that illustrious personages
were buried there, for we saw the names of lords and ladies. Poor people
were not able to buy lots there, so were content to place their dead in
less beautiful places. It is the custom in Paris for persons to take off
their hats on meeting a funeral procession, whether in the country or in
the public streets. That seemed like an odd custom, but one gets used to
many strange sights when abroad.
The sewers of Paris are spoken of very highly, and it is said they are
four hundred and forty-one miles in length. Some of the sewers are wide
enough to allow boats to pass through them, and at certain times of the
year visitors may take a tour through them; but they must first have a
special permit. The river Seine flows through Paris, and small excursion
steamboats take passengers out, thus giving a good view of both sides of
the river and landing them at small towns outside of the city limit.
There is no use for me to try to tell you all we saw in Paris, for each
day there were new sights presented to us. Seeing the fashions seems to
be the highest ambition of some people, and many of them go to Paris for
that purpose. People are able to gratify the desire there, and it is to
be hoped they return home satisfied.
[Illustration]
CHAPTER VI.
_Venice.—A Gondola.—The Pigeons.—Trieste.—Piræus.—Athens.—Paul and
Mars’ Hill.—Sickness.—From Athens to Smyrna.—Man Overboard.—A Lesson
of Unselfishness.—Smyrna.—A Cruel Father.—Ephesus.—Paul’s Missionary
Journey.—The Vesta.—Beyrut.—Jaffa Landing._
You may go with me, in your mind, to Venice, a city in Italy, where we
found ourselves very early one winter morning. Day had not yet dawned,
and darkness reigned supreme. Lamps were burning inside of the depot,
giving just light enough for passengers to see every object plainly.
At the foot of a flight of steps not far away stood two men, and as we
were in search of a hotel porter we immediately walked toward them. Upon
their cap-band, in large letters, was the name of the hotel we desired
going to, and without speaking one word our traveling bags were taken
and placed in a small boat, and we followed after, taking a seat near by
them. We were strangers, ignorant of the language, cold and tired.
The boatmen dipped their oars with a splash, and in the mean time talked
loudly to each other. The townspeople, no doubt, were in bed asleep, for
not a sound but that of our boatmen was heard, and no lights were seen,
excepting the lights which marked the corners. The distance seemed
great, for we paddled up one canal and down another, until we knew not
where the starting point was, and had no idea where the men were taking
us.
Venice was the strangest city we had ever visited. Front doorsteps
extended out into the water, and boatmen pulled up alongside of them
with their little gondolas. A large door showed us the entrance to the
hotel; but it was closed, and with a great deal of energy our fist came
down against it. After patiently waiting, admittance was gained, for a
winking, blinking-eyed servant, with hair standing straight up over his
head, had heard the noise and appeared to find out the cause. In one
hand he held a candle, and with the other kept tight hold of the door.
At first thought an entrance seemed out of the question; but after his
eyes were opened more widely he saw better and knew we were guests of the
hotel; so forthwith the door opened and we passed into the hall, where a
man who was not dazed took charge of us and we were glad to be taken to
our room, where in a short time after we were warmly covered up in bed.
Our journey had been long and tiresome, and the next morning found us
still tired and not willing to rise early.
Venice was the meeting point for us, as a party of tourists, and from
there we were to go on to Jerusalem together. We were ahead of time, so
decided to go sightseeing by ourselves; and an enjoyable time was had
going from one point to another.
History tells us much about the city I’m writing about, but time and
space will not allow me to repeat it to you. I will, however, tell you
that Venice is said to stand on one hundred and seventeen islands. There
are one hundred and fifty canals, and those canals are spanned by three
hundred and eighty bridges. There are a few narrow streets where people
can walk, and when standing in the middle of one with arms outstretched,
the walls of the houses on either side can easily be touched. There are
also a few streets a little wider than the first named, but I must say
only a very few.
Horses and wagons are never seen in the city, and the people who never
go from home do not know what a horse looks like. Do you wonder how the
people get along without horses and wagons? Well, they use little boats
called gondolas. A gondola is long and narrow, with a flat bottom. One
man rows it, using one oar, and always standing at the stern of his boat.
He is called a gondolier. It is very interesting to watch the gondolier
as he guides the little boat, turning corners as swiftly as a driver
turns a street corner with horse and buggy, never once running into an
object.
Notes of warning are called out continually as they glide along, and
you are impressed with the thought of their carefulness. We hired a
gondola for three hours, and did not get out of it during that time. The
gondolier did not understand a word of English, so we could not talk to
him; but we knew well enough what he meant when he stopped every once in
a while. We shook our heads, No, no, and motioned for him to go on, when
reluctantly he moved forward. You see Italians like strong drink, and he
always pulled up in front of a saloon. When he could stand it no longer
he did as he pleased and stopped for the drink, leaving us seated quietly
in the boat.
Gondolas are all painted black, and most of them have cabins which serve
to shield the passenger from sun or rain. They are very comfortable boats
to ride in, and one does not get tired of skimming over the water. There
is one canal larger than any of the rest, which is known as the Grand
Canal. The water in it is deep enough to float large sized vessels, and
many of them stop there to load and unload freight, and also to take on
passengers for other ports. The water was perfectly calm, and our ride
was interesting and enjoyable.
Venice is a very interesting city to visit, for there are many public
buildings, such as the arsenal, which contains a museum of interesting
objects, and Saint Mark’s church. It alone would keep one occupied many
days if he examined closely every object of interest in it; for it was
constructed of the spoils of many buildings in almost every country in
the far East. It has marble columns and panels dating back to the fourth
century. It has been said that “St. Mark’s body was brought to Venice
secretly, from Alexandria, and placed in a vault in the chapel.” We do
not know how much truth there is in the guide’s story; but, be that as
it may, the church is a wonderful structure, and its panels, columns and
mosaics are well worth examining.
Hundreds of pigeons have their nests in the cornice of St. Mark’s, and
no one dare drive them away. They ruin the beautiful molding, and one
cannot help but wish it were different. The pigeons are quite tame, for
they come down and sit upon the head, shoulders and hands of any one
who will feed them. Some one bequeathed a certain sum of money for the
feeding of the pigeons, and for years and years feed has been furnished
them from the interest money. I am very fond of pets; so it pleased me
greatly to see them come down by the hundreds for the food which was
thrown them.
The streets were usually crowded with a set of lazy looking people,
and we had a good chance to see them as we walked up one street and
down another. There were many little shops where cooked victuals were
on sale; in the windows could be seen crisp fried fish, and at the
doors were large iron kettles filled with steaming hot boiled potatoes.
Those articles were sold at reasonable prices, and I’m sure it was
a convenience for the class of people who were too lazy to cook for
themselves. The Italians are said to be a dirty set of people, and I am
made to believe there is a good deal of truth in that saying.
By the time our party was ready to leave Venice we felt quite well
acquainted with every street and canal, and to this day we look back with
pleasure to the time when we visited the city of one hundred and fifty
canals.
Our mind is now turned toward Athens, a city in Greece. Once again
passage on a steamer was taken, for it proved to be the only way by which
we were able to reach that place. There were seven of us now, and the
personal conductor besides; yet not any of us had ever met before.
Trieste is an Austrian seaport town, and from there we sailed. The sea
was as calm as a river, and sailing was delightful. Our first stopping
place was at the Island of Corfu, where the anchor was cast and four
hours spent in waiting for passengers. The whole company desired to go
ashore, and after making proper arrangements with the boatmen were taken
to land, where carriages were procured and a long drive in the country
taken.
Oranges were plentiful in that country and little boys ran after the
carriages just as fast as they could, wanting to sell their fruit. The
party bought as many oranges as they desired, thinking the little fellows
would discontinue the chase; but we were mistaken, for they followed on
for miles, proving to be little nuisances.
Sea voyages are very tiresome, so the change was enjoyed by all, and the
time spent on the steamer did not seem so long after the ride.
Piræus is the port of Athens, and is six miles from the city. Carriages
had been ordered ahead, and we found them waiting at the landing. It took
but a few minutes to settle ourselves in them, and we found the ride over
the clean, broad, shaded road more agreeable than the rocking motion of
a steamship. By this time you must surely know I am a lover of land, and
prefer it to water. Reaching the city in an hour after, we were driven
to a hotel on one of the principal streets.
The hotel was new, and the appearance pleasing. Many guests were there
from different parts of the world, and every one seemed intent on
seeing the sights of Athens. Very little time was spent in resting, for
there was too much to be seen to spend time idly. Just in front of our
hotel was the great public square, and at stated times the band played,
bringing together crowds of people. Across the square from the hotel was
the royal palace, built of beautiful white marble, and surrounding it
were the palace gardens.
The language and customs of the people were different from those of other
countries, and a guide was hired to take the entire party to places
of interest as well as to talk for them. Each person was therefore
privileged to ask questions, which he answered according to his best
knowledge. The climate was mild, quite like that of Italy, and the
exercise which walking gave kept us as warm as at home in the months of
July and August.
Athens is not a city I should desire to have as a permanent place of
residence, and we did not go there expecting to select a home; but we
went to visit the city where years and years ago a great man introduced
the Gospel. He was “of the stock of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin,
a Hebrew of the Hebrews.” Who was that man? Ah, Paul! Yes, you think
rightly; but he was not always a Christian; no; he persecuted them at
one time, for you know he stood by and watched the stoning of Stephen,
that faithful Christian man. If he had been a follower of Christ, such
cruelty would not have been countenanced. Shortly after the stoning of
Stephen the Lord called Paul, he was converted, and his boldness for the
new cause was marvelous. Paul was an educated man, and able to talk to
learned men wherever he went; and there was no end of Christian work for
him to do.
The people in those times had kings to rule over them; so when Paul came
around and told them of a person who was greater than their king, “one
Jesus,” it troubled them greatly. They were so enraged when Paul told
about Jesus that it was feared the people would take his life. So he was
sent away by night, and the place they took him to was Athens, the very
city I’ve been writing about.
In Paul’s time Athens was known all over the world as a city of great
learning and one that paid great attention to the worship of the gods. In
every direction could be seen temples, altars and other sacred buildings.
Mars’ Hill is the place where the learned men took Paul, “saying, May we
know what this new doctrine whereof thou speakest is? Then Paul stood in
the midst of Mars’ Hill and said, Ye men of Athens, I perceive that in
all things ye are too superstitious.” He had no fear of man, but gave
them the truth without one bit of polishing. We stood on Mars’ Hill, and
called to mind the time when this great man was there preaching to the
pleasure-loving, idol-worshiping Athenians. All around us were the ruins
of the great temples of the time of Paul.
[Illustration: _Mars’ Hill._]
Paul left Athens after this, and since then his great sermon has been
read and reread; and these days many people turn to Christ through his
wonderful preaching. Children, do you love the meek and lowly Jesus of
whom Paul spoke? Think of it, my little readers, and may the Lord help
you to be little workers for him.
All was not pleasure and joy while in Athens. Sickness comes to us
whether at home or abroad, and many sad hours were spent at the bedside
of the one who is very dear to me. The fever, which is so common in that
country, fastened itself upon him, and the outlook seemed sad indeed
to me. Many were the tears shed, and many were the prayers sent to the
Father above, from the heart which seemed too heavy to perform its
function; but the dear Father heard the prayers, and it was his will
to raise the stricken one, so that the journey might be completed; and
to-day we bless his name.
The time had come for us to leave Athens, and we were all taken back to
Piræus, where we took ship for Smyrna. Three hundred miles were to be
traveled on this trip, and then another rest. The wind blew quite hard
at the start of the journey, and a rough voyage seemed to be in store
for us; but we decided bad weather could be endured a couple of days,
for soon rest would come. The wind had a splendid chance to blow, and
after getting out into the open sea our little ship rolled and rolled,
more than was agreeable to the poor creatures who were inclined to
seasickness, and no doubt they wished for land; but the seasickness
passed off after a while, and then the hollow-eyed people came forth
from their staterooms to see whatever was to be seen along the way.
We passed an island and a city called Chios. Do you remember that Paul,
on his journey, passed this very same island too? He did not stop there,
because he was very anxious to reach Jerusalem by the day of Pentecost.
Well, we did not stop either; our plans were to go right on, as we were
on our way to Jerusalem too.
Sitting on deck was more agreeable to the passengers than remaining in
the stateroom, so almost all of the time was spent on deck, even when the
wind blew hard. One grew tired sitting all the time, so by way of change
we walked back and forth. One time when we were sitting quietly a scream
for help was heard; quickly every one of us rushed to the side of the
ship, and there in the water below was a man. A sailor had been furling
a sail—rolling it up—when, without a moment’s warning, a strong gust of
wind took him out to sea.
Life-buoys were fastened here and there along the railing of the ship,
placed there to be used in case of necessity; that time had come, and
quick as thought my husband cut the cords that bound one and immediately
threw it far out in the water—toward the unfortunate man. By this time
the excitement on board the ship was great. Other passengers cut loose
life-buoys, and, strange to say, threw them out in quite a different
direction from that in which the poor fellow was. The first buoy,
however, was carried by a wave to the man. Almost breathless we stood
watching him as he reached out and grasped the canvas-covered coil of
cork. When his arm and head had been placed through it our breath came
easier, for there was a possibility now of his being saved.
The steamer was stopped as soon as possible, and the anchor cast out to
steady her, but by that time the man was far away, and he looked like a
mere black speck in the distance. The captain stood by the railing of the
ship, and in loud tones called to the unfortunate man to be brave and
hold up, for soon help would come to him.
Three brave sailors manned one of the ship’s boats, and when it was
lowered faithfully and diligently rowed toward the dark speck in the
distance. Everybody on that steamer watched the men, as nearer and nearer
they drew to the object. What if he should drown? Just at that moment
the unfortunate one was reached, then taken into the boat, and their
faces soon after were turned shipward. Every dip of the oars brought
them closer and closer to the ship, and oh how glad we were when at last
their voices were heard near by. Steps were lowered, but the sea was so
wild that every time the little boat came alongside of them a wave dashed
it away. Finally they were successful, and soon after the dripping wet
sailor stood before us.
The sailors who had gone to his rescue had great difficulty to get aboard
the ship, and at times it seemed as though their little boat would surely
be dashed to pieces. The sailor whose life had just been saved saw the
perilous condition of his comrades and made a move to go to help them,
but the captain seeing this in stern tones ordered him to go to his
quarters. The man obeyed, but very reluctantly. The rest of the men came
aboard shortly afterward, and once more quiet reigned.
I think I shall never forget with what sorrow we watched the poor fellow
in the angry deep. His black hair and white face are still in my mind as
we saw him floating along in the water, and his cry of distress still
rings in my ears while I am writing this to you.
The language of the wet sailor was strange to us, and yet I knew he
was unselfish. How did I know it? Because he had a desire to help his
comrades when he in turn saw them in peril. A bruised body and dripping
wet clothes were no hindrance to him; all was cast aside, and self was
out of the question.
My little readers, can you not learn one good lesson from the conduct of
the poor, half drowned sailor on the Mediterranean Sea? Yes, I believe
you can. What is it? That of unselfishness. Help those who help you. Is
that enough? No; no; go still farther; help those who are in distress,
no matter whether they ever did a favor for you or not. Remember that
deeds of kindness are never forgotten. Don’t do acts of kindness for
the reward; but because there is much love in your hearts for humanity.
Cultivate a kindly disposition while young; and, believe me, you will be
happier for it in after years.
Smyrna was reached at last, and just as the steamer reached the landing a
large caravan of camels, about seventy in number, put in an appearance.
A donkey with a man upon his back led the caravan, and they were all
joined together with a rope, the leader holding tight to one end of
it. They moved along slowly in single file, looking quite awkward with
the heavy burdens upon their backs. Camels are said to be patient and
enduring. In case of a scarcity of water they are able to go without it
for from eight to ten days. Horses and donkeys could not endure crossing
the desert, but camels can, because their feet are cushion like, and
therefore enlarge when placed upon the ground, making traveling easier
for them when going through the sandy soil.
Smyrna is one of the cities which was spoken of in the Book of
Revelation, and there one of the Seven Churches of Asia was located. A
busy crowd of people were upon the streets, and in almost every direction
dogs were seen in every attitude. One of the distressing things to me
was the abundance of fleas which hopped upon us, biting as they went. We
desired to keep away from dogs, but their home had been in Smyrna long
enough to have the city well stocked with the little pests, and strangers
were not long in finding it out, for, whether near by or far away from a
dog, you were sure to be pestered.
The streets of Smyrna are narrow and dirty, with pools of
disease-breeding water standing here and there upon them. The houses are
not very large, and from the outside have an uninviting appearance. The
dress of the people seemed odd, and indeed so did everything we looked at.
In walking over the city we saw many Mohammedan mosques, and near them
was a tall, slender tower from which a priest called the hour of prayer.
Now those towers are called minarets, and the priest is a muezzin.
“Allah-el-Allah” is called in loud tones, and all the faithful ones bow
down and pray; no matter whether they are buying a bill of goods or on
their way to the mosque. We have seen them upon their knees on board of
steamers, and they seemed not one bit afraid of attracting the attention
of the tourists who stood looking on. Do you believe those people pray to
be seen of men? We wondered about it, and since we have no right to judge
we leave the matter with them.
Writing about Mohammedans brings to mind an incident which will no doubt
interest you. On board the steamer was an ugly old man who had two wives
and several children with him. They did not occupy staterooms, but took
up their abode upon the deck, and were known as deck passengers. The
women did not sit upon chairs, as did the rest of us, but flat upon the
floor. As a shelter from the wind and the glances of the passengers an
umbrella was used. We tried hard to peep under the covering to get a
glimpse of the women’s faces, but that privilege was never granted us,
for the umbrella was sure to come between us. The old man walked back and
forth for exercise, and the children ran to and fro before us; but the
women never stirred from their first sitting place.
The wind blew very hard and the air was quite chilly even to those of us
who were warmly clad. The children wore neither shoes nor stockings, and
their clothing was of the thinnest kind of cloth. Their feet were pink
with cold, and they had a season of crying as a result. The father was
displeased, and raising a heavy stick which he carried let it come down
upon the cold feet and ankles of the children. What a cruel act! And of
course that kind of treatment brought forth cries louder than ever. In
angry tones he scolded in a language we did not know, and quiet reigned
when the sobbing little ones were taken under the umbrella with the women.
A guide accompanied us everywhere we went and talked for us, and as a
party we kept him busy.
One beautiful, clear day we all went to Ephesus, another noted place of
Bible times. The city once had a port and landing place for vessels,
and its location at one time was such as to command great commerce; but
these days the city is gone, and no port is to be seen; instead there are
marshes which breed fever and disease, and every one who visits there
fears to remain long lest the disease germ be taken into the system.
The people of Ephesus were given to the worship of idols, and not far
from there was a temple called “the temple of Diana.” Now Diana was a
goddess, and the people thought she had come down from heaven; and they
imagined she had the power to watch over all of their streams, and their
wealth too. Well, in this temple were many beautiful things, for the
wealthy people had beautiful gold and silver images made and placed there
in honor of the great goddess, “whom all Asia and the world worshipeth.”
Each year there was a great display made of the images, for they were
carried in a procession so that everybody could see them. The making of
shrines and images became a great business, and many people were engaged
in the work, and they grew rich from the proceeds. Paul was a missionary
in the true sense. He never failed to tell the people wherever he went to
believe on the Lord. You know from Athens he went to Corinth, and from
there to the city I have been telling you about.
We read that he found disciples at this place and that he began asking
them questions. He said to them, “Have ye received the Holy Ghost since
ye believed?” And they told Paul that they had never heard of such a
thing before. Immediately Paul told them they should believe on the Lord
Jesus Christ. Quite willing were they to accept what Paul had told them,
and after that were baptized. Then Paul laid his hands upon them, and
about twelve disciples—quite a body of workers for the Lord—received the
Holy Ghost, and after this they talked and prophesied.
The city was full of wickedness, so there was a splendid chance for
Paul and the disciples to work; and very earnestly and faithfully they
did work. When Paul began to preach the image-makers became alarmed; so
much so that there was a great stir among them. A man by the name of
Demetrius, who was a silversmith, became very angry. He called together
the other workmen and sympathizers, and they, too, were angry. There
was a wonderful time, “and the whole city was filled with confusion.”
They were not quieted until the town clerk talked to them. Don’t you
think there must have been a great time in Ephesus then? And don’t you
think Paul was a wonderful man to stay two years in a city like that,
persuading the people to turn from their idols? For “all that dwelt in
Asia heard the word of the Lord Jesus, both Jews and Greeks.” Yes, he was
a powerful preacher, and the Word of God grew and prevailed because of
Paul’s preaching.
The Lord does not countenance wickedness; so there came an end to the
prosperity of Ephesus. Years and years ago the city and temple were
destroyed; after which they were never rebuilt. Their ruins were covered
up with mud and dirt for years, and so completely were they covered that
no one knew exactly where their location was.
About twenty-four years ago a gentleman by the name of Wood hunted and
dug until he found the ruins; then he worked faithfully until the temple
of Diana was excavated. Now visitors have the pleasure of standing on the
marble floors of the “temple of Diana of the Ephesians.”
Instead of Ephesus, there stands a dirty little village called Ayasalouk,
and here and there in the village can be seen marble columns and other
pieces of fine marble taken from the once beautiful temple. The trip was
an interesting one to us, because we knew that at one time Paul was in
this very same country, and perhaps stood right where we stood.
Our stay at this place was not very long, for it was near train time, and
we were compelled to go with the rest of our company. We tramped over the
hills and among the ruins of Ephesus until we had gone eight miles. We
were tired, and rest was welcome. A little before dark we were safe in
Smyrna again, ready for a warm meal and a good rest.
Soon after this we left Smyrna for Jaffa. This time we had a distance of
perhaps eight hundred miles to travel, and the voyage took five days.
Many times we wished more of our traveling could have been upon land, and
yet, when we think of it, many pleasant days were spent upon the sea,
even though it was rough and stormy at times.
Our company consisted of Americans and English people, some from our own
State,—Illinois,—some from New York. I must say that the most agreeable
people of the company were Americans.
We took passage on the steamer Vesta, and Smyrna was left behind; we were
started on our five days’ journey to Jaffa. The voyage was pleasant and
the scenery varied, for we passed many islands. Our boat stopped a short
time at the Island of Cyprus, another one of Paul’s missionary points and
also the native place of Barnabas, who, having heard the bold speeches of
Peter and John, sold his land “and brought the money, and laid it at the
apostles’ feet.” Barnabas is frequently spoken of in the New Testament,
for he was a good man and “full of the Holy Ghost and of faith;” and he,
with Paul, made many missionary tours through this same Island of Cyprus.
About three hundred Greek and Armenian pilgrims wanted to be taken aboard
at this place; but there were too many of them, the captain thought, so
he took some and left the rest to wait for another ship. They made so
much noise we felt almost sure there was some disturbance brewing; but it
proved to be only their earnest way of talking, for they seemed peaceable
enough.
Each year hundreds of them make a pilgrimage to Jerusalem; they go there
to enjoy the Easter ceremonies. Many of them walk from Jaffa to Jerusalem
with pebbles in their shoes, or bare-foot. If some great sin has been
committed, they take upon themselves some torture which may bring about
suffering to the flesh.
The Vesta carried passengers who came from many parts of the
world,—merchants, tourists and pilgrims,—some on their way to Jerusalem,
others to Damascus, and still others to Egypt. There were ever so many
Turks on board, and right outside of our stateroom were a number of
Turkish women and children. There was a sofa in our stateroom by the
window, and I often sat there listening to their strange language. I
tried hard to see their faces, but that seemed out of the question, for
the women were veiled, which is a custom among them. Occasionally the
veil was thrown back, but just as soon as there was the least suspicion
of any one looking at them it was hurriedly pulled down. The women who
are seen with uncovered faces are considered bold.
The women and children were deck passengers, and during the trip stayed
there close by my window. They had plenty of bedding which was very clean
and nice looking. At night they slept upon it, and in the daytime used
it to sit upon. The men kept baskets well filled with the finest of
oranges, and no doubt there were plenty of good things besides for them
to eat. The women wore large earrings in their ears, and the prevailing
fashion among them was to stain the fingernails black; and thinking to
add to their looks they put a streak of black under the lower eyelid.
One of the Turks had several women under his care, and among the number
was a young girl whose father and mother were dead. She did not want to
leave her home in Constantinople, but the man who had her in charge took
her regardless of her wishes. This man was an uncle to the girl, and
therefore had a right to do as he pleased; but it so happened that she
never reached Damascus, the place aimed for.
There was great confusion among the Turkish women one night, and
everybody on board the Vesta was aroused from slumber. Overhead there was
an unusual amount of walking and talking, and above all could be heard
the stern voice of the captain. We were very sure something had gone
wrong, for the confusion lasted several hours and the captain seemed to
have great trouble in quieting the people. After a while they settled
down and we fell asleep. The next morning we learned that the young girl
had disappeared during the night. All search seemed in vain, and after
finding her clothing upon deck they concluded she had jumped overboard.
Surely her Damascus trip was ended, and sad indeed must have been the
heart of the poor, motherless girl who found a resting place in the
Mediterranean Sea. That event brought sadness to our hearts, and yet we
had a strong desire to know more of the life of the poor Turkish maiden;
but there was no need of dwelling longer on this subject, and therefore
we cast it aside for more cheerful thoughts.
[Illustration: _Woman with Veiled Face._]
The weather was fine almost all of the trip, and much time was spent on
deck watching the waves chase each other as we dashed along. Watching
waves seemed like a trivial thing to do, but when passengers must depend
upon themselves for amusement they are often intensely interested by the
very smallest thing, especially when nothing is seen but sky and water
for miles and miles and miles.
There are few secure harbors along the Mediterranean. Vessels always
cast anchor out from shore from half a mile to a mile, and passengers
as well as cargo must be taken ashore in small boats. If the sea should
be boisterous the vessels are compelled to lie by until a calm; then
discharge the cargo. That seemed to be our fate at Beyrut, for on
reaching the port there was a stiff breeze which resembled a gale; and
instead of stopping only a few hours we remained until the day following.
The heavy sea twisted the Vesta and caused her to drag the anchor a
little. We did not enjoy that part of it, for a restless, uneasy feeling
in our stomach made us think of seasickness, which came very near
following. Some passengers went ashore at Beyrut because it was the end
of their journey, and others went for a change of scene. As we were not
of the venturesome kind we decided to remain where we were until the next
stopping place was reached, and that would be Jaffa.
Jaffa seemed very far away when we first thought of taking a journey
through Palestine; but each day shortened the time until less than
twenty-four hours remained, and then the next thing we knew the city was
in view. The tourists commenced to talk about the dangerous landing and
wish it were over with; and we of course were among the number.
Almost every one going to Jerusalem goes to the port of Jaffa. It is a
very dangerous landing, because of its rocky coast. There are large,
black rocks extending far out in the sea, and when the waves run high
the little boats are dashed upon them, and all are lost. Sometimes ships
are obliged to go on to the next port without landing a passenger or
discharging the cargo.
There was so much noise and confusion at the landing, almost enough to
scare a timid person. Boatmen crowded around the passengers and shouted
at the top of their voices, each one trying to see how many passengers
he could get, just like the cabmen at depots in our cities. I kept away
from the noise as much as possible, and found a good hiding place in the
stateroom, where they were not allowed to go. There I stayed until almost
all the passengers had gone ashore.
There was a flight of steps on one side of the steamer, held in place
by ropes, and quite a thick rope was used for a railing. The steps were
used only by the passengers, and when needed no more by them were drawn
up and fastened to the side of the ship. Those steps were somewhat
shaky, for every time a person went down one step the whole flight
took to shaking. Oh, how it made me tremble! for it seemed as though it
were loose and would surely come down, and the passenger along with it.
Sometimes the little boat was at the foot of the steps (for I have told
you it was necessary to go ashore in small boats), and sometimes it was
far away from them; so there was a quick movement needed if you were to
be successful in getting in before a wave washed it away.
The boatmen are strong looking fellows, and the great sinews stand out
on their arms so plainly that every one can be counted if you desire to
do so. Their shirt sleeves were rolled up above the elbow, and no shoes
were upon their feet. To see them is to impress one with their strength.
One by one the gentlemen and ladies passed down the steps, each keeping
his feelings to himself. Our turn came, so with weak and trembling
knees we went down, keeping our eyes upon the boat which was tossing
and pitching at a rapid rate at the foot of the steps. It seemed almost
out of the question to step into it. Just as the attempt was to be made
one of the Arab boatmen took me, and without much of an effort seated
me in the little boat. The transfer was sudden, yet I shall always feel
grateful for the kind act. Very cautiously the men rowed, passing between
the rocks which were seen more plainly as we drew nearer and nearer the
shore. No wonder all passengers dread the Jaffa landing, and no wonder
many lives have been lost in landing when storms were raging.
Strong men are always glad when the ordeal of landing at Jaffa is over
with. Is it any wonder then that timid women rejoice over the fact that
there is only one Jaffa landing?
You can imagine we were rejoiced to be on solid ground again, and when
the guide took us to the hotel we retired to our room; and there on
bended knees we thanked our kind heavenly Father for his protecting care
over us. Our hearts were full of thankfulness, and tears of gratitude
filled our eyes. Though far, far from home, it was a pleasing thought to
feel that the Lord was with us all the way.
[Illustration]
CHAPTER VII.
_Jaffa.—The Careless Camel.—Bible Characters who lived in
Jaffa.—Jonah’s Temptation.—On the Way to the Holy City.—An Arab and his
Plow.—Ramleh.—Lydda in the Distance.—Leprous People Begging.—Leprous
People of Bible Times.—Camp-fire in the Cave.—Jerusalem.—Our
Room.—Solomon’s Disobedience.—Tower of David.—The Stubborn
Donkey.—Mohammedan Cemetery.—Mount of Olives._
Jaffa is built upon a hillside facing the sea, and the first glimpse
of the flat-roofed stone houses, standing out as they did in the clear
sunlight, is apt to cause one to pronounce the city beautiful; but wait
until a walk through the narrow, dirty streets is taken, and such a
thought as beautiful vanishes from the mind. A light shower of rain had
fallen just before we arrived there; the filthy condition of the city was
quite disagreeable, and it took away the desire to tarry long there.
While leisurely walking through one of the principal streets and feeling
we were in no particular danger, except that of slipping down, we heard
the guide call out, “Watch out!” I looked up, and to my surprise saw a
camel loaded with orange boxes. The animal was very close to me, and
a knock over the head seemed the next thing, for the boxes hung down,
one on each side of him, and spread half way over the street. I thought
quickly, and acted immediately, which means that I stooped down and the
loaded orange boxes passed over my head. That act saved me from being
walked over by the great, clumsy animal. That event did not discourage
us, so we walked on and on.
We saw such odd looking little stores, dark and dirty. If a person
desired to make a purchase it was done by standing out on the street
and talking to the merchant who sat upon the floor of his store with
legs crossed. What would you think if you saw shoemakers, blacksmiths
and barbers all engaged in their special line of work, sitting upon the
streets working with a will? That was no uncommon sight, but always an
amusing one to us.
Oranges and lemons were plentiful in Jaffa, for there were several very
large orchards near the city. We were there in the season to see the
beautiful yellow fruit on the trees, and then to enjoy eating some of it.
Florida oranges are fine, but I believe the Jaffa oranges are sweeter and
more finely flavored.
But I must not spend too much time in telling you what we saw, for we are
now in the Holy Land, and that brings to my mind the Bible characters who
at one time walked those streets; for you know we are now writing about
a very, very old city. Probably you can call to mind some of the people
who lived there in Bible times, for I’m sure you have been studying about
them in Sunday school.
You remember “Simon a tanner” who lived in Jaffa? Well, his house is
pointed out to strangers, and is now being used as a mosque (house of
worship). And you know Peter went on the housetop to pray. So in these
days people go up on the top of that house and pray. Guides tell you a
good many things in the course of a day, and one cannot always believe
what they say. In all probability the location of this house is the same
as the one which Simon lived in; but we are doubtful about the house.
I presume every girl and boy knows something about “Tabitha” or “Dorcas.”
She also lived in Jaffa; and you know we read she “was full of good
works, and almsdeeds.” One day she took sick and died, and her body was
prepared for the tomb. Peter was not very many miles away, so he was sent
for. Upon his arrival he was taken to the upper room where the lifeless
body of Dorcas lay. Can you imagine the great sorrow of the people?
“All the widows stood by him weeping and showing the coats and garments
which Dorcas made while she was with them.” And then what did Peter do?
Why, he performed a great miracle, for he brought the good woman back to
life again. That was a happy time, and there was real joy in that house.
Everybody in Jaffa heard of Tabitha’s sickness, death and restoration to
life, “and many believed in the Lord.”
Nineveh was a very wicked city, and the Lord was greatly concerned about
it; so he called a man by the name of Jonah to go there and preach to the
people. This man did not want to go, for no doubt he thought the work
would be too hard; so he started to a place of his own choosing, and went
to Jaffa, took ship there for Tarshish, paid the fare, went down in the
ship and went to sleep. Do you believe he was altogether happy? We shall
see by and by.
The Lord knew what Jonah was doing, and what was in his mind too, for you
know nothing can be hid from the Lord, no matter how hard one tries. And
this man found that out to his sorrow, for pretty soon “the Lord sent out
a great wind into the sea, and there was a mighty tempest in the sea, so
that the ship was like to be broken,” and the sailors were dreadfully
scared; but Jonah knew nothing about it, for he was fast asleep. As the
storm grew in strength the seamen became more and more alarmed, and
finally they called out, “Arise, call upon thy God.” By this time the
poor man was sure he was the cause of the stormy voyage. So Jonah said,
“Take me up, and cast me forth into the sea.” But they did not want to
treat their passengers so unkindly; so they rowed and rowed, to see if
they could possibly get to land with him and all be saved. But there was
no use trying; the sea was too wild. Then they tried another plan; they
called upon the Lord,—and very pitifully, too,—but that failed. “So they
took up Jonah and cast him forth into the sea; and the sea ceased from
her raging.”
Now poor Jonah was in the water; but the Lord was not going to let him
perish, so he prepared a great fish which swallowed him. Still the Lord
was with him; and while in the great fish Jonah thought and “prayed unto
the Lord his God.” The Lord hears prayers and answers them if he thinks
best; so this time poor Jonah’s prayer was answered, and “the Lord spake
unto the fish, and it vomited out Jonah upon the land.” After that the
Lord called him the second time, and this time he obeyed. He went and
preached in Nineveh, and “the people of Nineveh believed God.”
When Solomon decided to build a house for the Lord he sent word to
“Hiram, king of Tyre,” to send to him cunning workmen and also “cedar
trees, fir trees, and algum trees out of Lebanon.” The king was pleased
to do as Solomon bade him, and as soon as it was possible sent a workman
who was qualified to work in anything they saw proper to put him to.
The timber was sent “in floats by sea to Joppa,” and from there it was
carried up to the city of Jerusalem, where the temple was to be built.
You will see by the instances which I have been giving that Jaffa must
be an interesting place to visit, especially for those who love the
Bible and its teachings. But our minds were turned toward the city of
Jerusalem, and as soon as arrangements were made we started thitherward.
There were no signs of a railroad between the two cities then; so we had
the privilege of choosing for ourselves whether we should take the trip
in a carriage or on horseback. Our party preferred the carriage, thinking
it to be the easier way of traveling over a rough, stony country.
Now the vehicle the guide called a carriage proved to be a very, very
uncomfortable thing to ride in. At home it would have been called a
covered spring wagon, and a very poor one at that. Sometimes we wondered
whether it really had springs at all. But the guide called it a carriage,
and we followed his example and called it a carriage too.
Jerusalem is between thirty and forty miles from Jaffa, and that meant
an all day ride for us; and with the hope of reaching our destination
that night we started. The morning was beautiful and the air fresh and
bracing, so the change from sea to land travel was thoroughly enjoyed.
Here and there along the road were cypress and sycamore trees, and
occasionally an orange grove was passed. The sweet odor of the orange
blossoms filled the air, and the perfume came to us while passing along.
The beautiful yellow fruit could be seen hanging on the trees, and though
it was too far away for us to touch, yet it was not too far to be admired.
There were many beautiful flowers growing along the highway, which seemed
to be bowing a welcome to us. Our desire to pluck them was very great,
but we rode on, finding it impossible to stop to gratify the desire, as
the further we rode the more flowers we saw.
There were strange things along the way which interested us greatly. For
instance, farmers were plowing their fields, and they had the oddest
looking plows you ever saw. I’m not sure I shall be able to describe
them; but you may imagine how they look when I tell you that a piece of
wood, perhaps three feet long, is sharpened at one end, and at the other
end a crosspiece is attached, which serves as handle. Now the sharpened
end of the stick is the part which turns up the soil; and the furrows
were not very deep, you may be sure. My husband had a desire to try
plowing with an Arabic plow, so the first opportunity which was offered
he put his hand to the plow and had a trial of it. The old Arab stood
by, looking very much amused at the American’s awkward attempt. The new
plowman felt as though he would not like to make his living that way, so
tarried but a little while.
Oxen, horses, donkeys and camels were used to draw the plows. Many times
we saw a horse and an ox, or a horse and a donkey hitched together. But
a great, tall, awkward camel seemed to be one of the strangest sights,—a
great big camel, a little plow, and way behind all a poor little man.
But you can imagine how it looked, and I’ll leave you to smile over the
thought of a camel being hitched to a little one-handled plow.
After riding ten miles we stopped for luncheon at a small village called
Ramleh. A great tall square tower stands near the village, and almost
every stranger climbs to the top of it; for from it may be seen the
country round about. The steps show that many feet have trodden upon
them, and the walls are badly cracked, showing to us that age was on its
side. The village of Lydda, six miles distant, could be plainly seen from
the top of the tower, and it seemed hardly possible that one’s eyes could
take in such a wide stretch of country at one glance.
You remember Lydda was the little village where Peter visited some of the
saints. There he found a man by the name of Æneas who had been in bed
eight years with palsy. “And Peter said unto him, Æneas, Jesus Christ
maketh thee whole; arise, and make thy bed. And he arose immediately. And
all that dwelt at Lydda and Saron saw him, and turned to the Lord.”
This is also the little town to which two men were sent to find Peter
after the death of Dorcas. You will see that from now on there will be
very few miles passed over which will not have Bible history connected
with them; and illustrations of Scripture may be gathered at almost every
point.
Sitting by the roadside were a number of leprous people, both men and
women. Now leprosy is a disease of the skin, and it eats away the flesh
very much as does cancer; it is loathsome and incurable. According to
law, every person afflicted with that disease must leave home and friends
and live by himself, or with others who are suffering in the same manner.
When the people saw us every one of them arose and commenced begging.
Arms with flesh eaten off and hands which were fingerless were held up
to excite our sympathy. Oh, how horrible! for in some cases the flesh
had been eaten away from the elbow to the wrist; the feet were without
toes, and the faces in a distressing condition. The disease had gone to
the lungs of some, for they coughed hard. The sight was touching, and our
hearts ached for them. Small wooden pails were used to carry the money
which was thrown them by benevolent people. This money was used in buying
the necessaries of life for the whole company, for they lived together as
one family among the ruins of old houses outside of the city, as they are
not allowed to come inside of any city.
There are many leprous persons spoken of in the Bible, and I shall
mention a few of them. First, then, was Miriam, the sister of Aaron and
Moses. One day she and Aaron spoke against Moses, which fact displeased
the Lord; and as a punishment to Miriam she “became leprous, white
as snow.” The brothers felt dreadfully bad to know of their sister’s
affliction. “And Moses cried unto the Lord saying, Heal her now, O God,
I beseech thee.” After having seen people with leprosy once you may not
expect soon to be rid of the sickening sight, for it will surely remain
in your mind. And now, while writing this to you, the sight of those poor
creatures comes to me, and I do not wonder that Moses pleaded for the
healing of Miriam.
Naaman, you remember, was a great man; but he had the leprosy. Now this
man’s wife had a little captive maiden working for her, who seemed
greatly interested in the leprous man; so one time the maiden said to her
mistress, “Would God my lord were with the prophet that is in Samaria;
for he would recover him of the leprosy.” Some one told the great man
what the little maiden had said; so the king of Syria sent a letter to
the king of Israel, and with it sent many pieces of silver and ever so
many pieces of gold, and also several changes of raiment.
When the king of Israel received and read the letter, he could not
understand why it had been sent to him, and concluded that the king of
Syria wanted to quarrel with him. He was therefore very much displeased.
Elisha, the man of God, heard of the letter and knew what it meant; so
he sent to the king, saying, “Wherefore hast thou rent thy clothes? Let
him come to me, and he shall know that there is a prophet in Israel.
So Naaman came with his horses and chariots and stood at the door of
the house of Elisha.” Well, Elisha told Naaman what he should do to be
made whole; but the great man grew very angry and went away in a rage.
Naaman’s servant said, “My father, if the prophet had bid thee do some
great thing, wouldst thou not have done it? How much rather then, when he
saith to thee, Wash and be clean?”
After this Naaman did as Elisha had directed, and he was made clean of
the dreadful, humiliating disease. The little captive maiden was far from
home and friends, and no doubt was sad many times because she could not
see her mother and father; yet, in her loneliness, she did not forget to
let her light shine for good; she was thoughtful of those around her, and
because of her thoughtfulness Naaman was brought to visit the prophet,
and then to know of the God who rules over all.
Gehazi was the servant of Elisha. He did wrong by asking Naaman to give
something for his healing, which he knew was not in accordance with the
desire of Elisha’s heart. Then, when questioned about the matter, he told
an untruth, and the doom pronounced upon Gehazi was this: “The leprosy
therefore of Namann shall cleave unto thee, and unto thy seed for ever.
And he went out from his presence a leper as white as snow.” The Lord
does not countenance wickedness in any shape or form, and punishment is
in store for all who do wickedly.
Children, are you ever tempted to be untruthful? Oh, be careful! Remember
the Lord knows all; he hears you and sees everything you do. When you
do wickedly it grieves him, and is it right for you to grieve the best
friend you have? No, no.
It was late in the afternoon when we left Ramleh, so we rode only a few
hours before daylight disappeared. Riding was not very pleasant after
dark, for the road over the mountains was rough and stony.
After traveling several miles, a small village was reached, where we
rested a short time. There is an inn or lodging place at this point, and
many persons stop there all night. It was a dirty looking place, for the
lower part of the house was used as a stable for horses. Some travelers
prefer camping out and I’m pretty sure I would rather camp out than sleep
in such a place as that; but our intentions were to sleep in Jerusalem
that night, and that being the case we rested but a short time.
Our guide was unusually slow in having the horses brought up, so a few
of us walked on up the mountain. We had walked but a short distance when
dark clouds were seen overhead; by and by rain came down, and a thorough
drenching seemed in store for us. Shelter was found, however, under the
wide-spreading branches of an olive tree, and there we stood until, to
our sorrow, it began to leak, and the water commenced dropping upon us
uncomfortably fast. But by this time a rumbling noise was heard in the
distance, and our carriage came in sight. In a very little while after
we were seated in it, about as uncomfortably as could be imagined. Some
of the party had walked farther on, so were not taken in at this point.
The darkness seemed more dense now and the road dreadfully bad. Away in
the distance a bright light was seen, and men could be seen moving about
quite lively before their camp-fire.
Highway robbers came into our mind, but there was not time to harbor such
thoughts long, for on getting a little closer to them we found two of
our traveling companions who had gone into a cave for shelter from the
rain. For amusement and warmth they had, Arab like, built a fire. The men
were full of fun, and their antics were quite grotesque. You can scarcely
imagine how funny they did look, dancing before the blazing fire. Of
course all laughed, for we could not help ourselves. Their shelter from
the rain was a good one, and there was no danger of its leaking either.
All were settled in the carriage at last, so we drove on.
As we neared the top of the mountain another camp-fire was seen, but this
time it was that of a Greek caravan which had stopped for the night.
There were ever so many men, camels and donkeys, and the bright fire
looked quite cheerful, for we were pretty well chilled; but we did not
stop, for if Jerusalem was to be reached that night it was necessary for
us to keep moving.
The roads continued bad, very bad. Many places there were great, deep
gullies washed out; the wagon wheels dropped into them with a thud, and
at times it seemed as though the wagon would surely go over. Some of the
party concluded to try walking, that they might keep warm—a good thing
for them to do. I’m very sure the footmen had a more pleasant time than
we who were riding. At times we were almost thrown from our seats by
the jolting, and I clung to the back of the seat in front of me. I did
not hesitate to pronounce it the worst ride which I had ever taken. Oh,
how we did wish for starlight or, better still, moonlight; but neither
stars nor moon could be seen. The guide and drivers felt the need of
refreshments very often, and when another coffeehouse was reached they
stopped while we all waited, sitting in the wagon, trying to be patient.
After all, the men did us a favor by stopping, for just as we were ready
to start a break in the clouds was seen, and to our delight the beautiful
moon came forth and lighted our way. It was just what we had been wishing
for, and from there on the gullies could be seen plainly, and groping in
darkness was at an end.
Somewhere on that road our Savior joined two disciples who were on their
way to Emmaus, “which was from Jerusalem about three score furlongs.”
Jerusalem is surrounded by mountains; so the last few miles of our ride
was up hill. The pleasure of seeing the city by moonlight was granted us,
and it seemed to me the moon never did shine more brightly than on that
night.
The guide said, “We are now not far from Jerusalem”; and on looking in
the direction in which he pointed the dim outlines of the high walls were
seen. “Is it really the walls of Jerusalem?” we asked, and no answer was
needed, for shortly after the carriage stopped and all stood at the Jaffa
Gate, one of the entrances to the city. The guide took us to the hotel;
and a tired company of tourists we were. The ride over the mountain had
chilled us to the bone, but there was no fire to greet us. The meal which
had been prepared was likewise cold, and when a cup of tea was passed
us it too was disappointingly cold and seemed to have been far from fire
an hour or more. What a reception! Will you be surprised to know that
thoughts of home and loved ones came thick and fast?
It was midnight, and when the servant took us to our room, imagine our
feelings on beholding the flooring to be of stone and iron bars across
the one small window. A shudder passed over us, and we thought of a
prison cell. Two beds were in the room. Upon examination we found there
were two linen sheets to sleep between and a very poor, thin comfort for
covering. The outlook for getting warm was not very bright, and I still
have recollections of shivering until almost morning.
The window I made mention of seemed entirely out of place so close to
the ceiling, and it was always a wonder to me why the builders placed it
so high. And then, why the iron bars? When alone in my room one day the
thought struck me this way, “I’ll see why the window is so high.” And
forthwith the wash-stand was moved under it, and in a short time after
I stood upon it. Even then I came near being too low; but by standing
on my tiptoes and then stretching my neck until it seemed the leaders
were strained I succeeded in looking out. I did not see people passing,
but instead found the window looked down upon a great pool. It was well
filled with water which had run into it during the rainy season. The
pool, it is thought, had been built by Hezekiah who was king of Jerusalem
many, many years ago. Since the pool was all that could be seen from
the window and I was not anxious to remain longer in such a strained
position, I decided to go where a better view could be had of it. My
curiosity had been gratified, and I never looked out of that window
again. Soon after this the guide came, and we all started out to see the
city.
[Illustration: _One of Solomon’s Pools._]
Solomon’s pools are only a few hours’ ride from Jerusalem and may be
seen on your way to the city of Bethlehem. They are three in number, and
all of them are of great size. We learn there is one which is considered
finer than the rest, and its dimensions are one hundred and ninety-four
yards long, forty-nine yards wide at the top, and sixty-nine yards below,
and is at places forty-eight feet deep, and hewn in the rock.
You have a very good picture of one of the pools in the engraving,
and when looking at it just think that ancient Jerusalem was partly
supplied with water which had been stored away in it, and that probably
the gardens, the orchards, and the trees of all kinds of fruits, which
Solomon speaks of having planted, were watered by them, for we read, “I
made me pools of water, to water therewith the wood that bringeth forth
trees.”
There was so much to be seen in and around Jerusalem. We scarcely knew
what place to visit first, but the guide settled the matter for us by
taking the party to a Mohammedan church, the Mosque of Omar, as it is
called.
I wonder how many of you know anything about Solomon. Well, I’ll tell
you. Solomon was the son of David, and a very wise man. “And Solomon’s
wisdom excelled the wisdom of all the children of the east country, and
all the wisdom of Egypt, and he spake three thousand proverbs: and his
songs were a thousand and five.” He was such a wise man that the people
and the kings went to hear him.
The Lord had said to David one time, “Thy son whom I will set upon thy
throne in thy room, he shall build a house unto my name.” Well, Solomon
decided to build the house, and it proved to be a wonderfully fine
building. Its foundation was of costly stone, and there was a great deal
of brass used; and when the inside of the building was finished it was
overlaid with pure gold. After the temple was finished it was dedicated
to the Lord, and Solomon prayed a long, long prayer.
Well, the Lord heard the prayer of Solomon, and said, “If thou wilt
walk before me, as David thy father walked, in integrity of heart, and
in uprightness, to do according to all that I have commanded thee, and
wilt keep my statutes and my judgments: then I will establish the throne
of thy kingdom upon Israel forever. But if ye shall at all turn from
following me, ye or your children, and will not keep my commandments and
my statutes which I have set before you, but go and serve other gods, and
worship them; then will I cut off Israel out of the land which I have
given them: and this house, which I have hallowed for my name, will I
cast out of my sight; and Israel shall be a proverb and a byword among
all people.”
Years rolled on, Solomon served the Lord faithfully; but by and by he
grew weak, sinned against the Lord, and worshiped gods made by hand. He
did just what the Lord forbade him to do, and the result was the utter
destruction of the temple. Not one stone was left upon another; and the
Mohammedan church—the Mosque of Omar—now stands on the site where once
stood Solomon’s Temple.
The Lord was kind to Solomon after all, for the kingdom was not taken
from him, but was taken from the hand of his son. Remember that
punishment is always sure to follow evil-doing.
The Mohammedans do not allow any one to go into their mosques with shoes
on, so each one of the party had to remove his shoes and put on a pair
of slippers. The interior of a Mohammedan mosque is considered sacred,
almost too much so for the feet of Christians to press. A few years
ago Christians could not gain an entrance at all, but of late they are
allowed the privilege. A guide always accompanies them, however, and
takes pleasure in pointing out the interesting objects which the dark,
gloomy mosque contains.
There is an old tower near the Jaffa Gate called the “Tower of David,”
and it is supposed to be the only building standing which the Lord may
have gazed upon.
The streets of Jerusalem are so narrow that carriages and wagons cannot
be used. Men, camels and donkeys carry all the burdens; and it is just as
necessary for pedestrians to be on their guard in that city as it was in
the city of Jaffa, for camels and donkeys would just as lief walk over
you, as they never turn out of the road.
Here is an amusing incident which I saw while standing upon the veranda
of our hotel. There was a market place just opposite the hotel, and
I stood watching the people sell their cauliflower, onions and other
vegetables. Purchasers were not very numerous that morning, and the
sales were rather dull. One old woman was sitting near her stand of
vegetables almost asleep. Far behind her was a man trying very hard to
get his donkey to turn in a direction different from the one in which it
persisted in going. Pounding over the head with a club seemed to make
no impression upon the feelings of the animal, and the stubborn donkey
budged not an inch. By and by there was a change of treatment; the little
animal was taken up bodily and turned around. Immediately he started off,
not caring where, and ran right over the old woman, upsetting her and
scattering the vegetables all around. Oh, how surprised she looked to
find herself tumbled in a heap; and when she beheld the donkey a look of,
Oh, well, one need expect nothing else from you, came into her face; then
quietly the scattered vegetables were picked up. The vegetables were not
injured, and the only thing distressing about the whole affair was that
the market woman lost her nap, for afterwards she seemed quite wide awake.
In the city of Jerusalem? Yes, and how strange! It would be impossible to
try to describe our feelings, for we knew that somewhere in that vicinity
holy men of old had lived and walked and preached. We were aware of the
fact that the city had been destroyed many times since Christ’s time,
and that the streets which he was wont to walk upon were covered up with
many feet of earth. Yet, notwithstanding that fact, we felt wonderfully
blessed in being allowed the privilege of even being in the land where
Christ and his disciples loved to dwell. Solomon reigned over Jerusalem
forty years. God told Abraham to offer his only son for a burnt offering
on Moriah, and there the Temple of Solomon was built. I could spend many
hours writing about the patriarchs of old, but must hasten on and tell
you just a little more about the city. It is surrounded by a high wall
pierced with many gates. Every one who goes into or out of the city must
pass through one of these gates. A few years ago every one of them was
closed after sundown, but no attention is paid to locking them now, and
you are allowed to go in and out any hour of the night.
Many of the stones in one portion of the wall are very, very old, and the
Jews think they were used at one time in the foundation of their ancient
temple, and that is as near as it is possible for them to get to the
Holy of holies; so every Friday—and other days too—they gather together
and weep and wail over the downfall of their beloved Zion. That place is
always known as the “Jews’ Wailing Place.”
There is a Mohammedan cemetery outside of the city wall; the graves
are about two feet high and are covered with a white coat of plaster.
There are no tombstones and no names to tell the passer-by whose remains
lie beneath the sod. Possibly the relatives know by the location where
their dead are buried, but I’m pretty sure no one else could tell. One
afternoon we had walked a long distance, and on our return to the hotel
passed through the cemetery I’ve just told you about. We were very
tired, so leaned against a tomb to rest a few minutes. Several Moslem
men passed us, muttering to themselves, and looking quite savage. We
asked, “What ails them?” and the reply was, “They don’t want their graves
desecrated by Christian dogs.” That was the first time we had been
likened to a dog; and, fearing the compliment might be repeated, we arose
immediately and walked away. The Mohammedans’ love for a Christian is
not great, and it was a little uncertain how many insults they might be
tempted to offer if we tarried longer.
Go with me now, my little readers, to the Garden of Gethsemane, to which
place it is said Jesus often went with his disciples. We found it at the
foot of the Mount of Olives, surrounded by a low stone wall. A monk acted
as guide and never left our side until the gate was closed against us on
our departure. The garden is well kept. Flowers here and there with nice
graveled walks make the place rather inviting to visitors who usually go
there soon after reaching the city. There are several old olive trees in
the garden, and it is thought they are the same trees under which the
blessed Master wept and prayed. When we looked at them this saying of
his came to our mind, “My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death;
tarry ye here, and watch with me.” And he went a little farther, and fell
on his face, and prayed. Oh, what a sorrowful prayer, for he said, “O my
Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not
as I will, but as thou wilt.” Truly he was acquainted with grief. It is
useless to attempt to tell you all of the instances connected with the
scene, so we leave the garden and ascend the Mount of Olives.
Somewhere on the Mount of Olives, after his resurrection, Jesus was
carried up to heaven. When David fled from Jerusalem he wept as he went
up this same mount. Ezekiel tells us that “the glory of the Lord went up
from the midst of the city, and stood upon the mountain which is on the
east side of the city.” Thus you see both the Old and the New Testament
refers to Olivet; and could the stones be made to speak many a tale of
sadness would be told by them.
[Illustration]
CHAPTER VIII.
_Bethany.—Bethlehem.—Rachel’s Tomb.—The Shepherd Boy.—Ruth and
Naomi.—Garden of Gethsemane.—Departure from Jerusalem.—Yosef.—Jericho
Road.—Ain-es-Sultan.—Morning Call.—Donkey Boy.—Dead Sea.—Along the
Banks of the Jordan.—John the Baptist.—Bad Roads._
Bethany is perhaps two miles from Jerusalem. At one time it was the home
of Mary, Martha and Lazarus, a family whom Jesus dearly loved to visit
when tired of the noise and confusion of the city. Sickness and death
came to that family, and the brother was taken from them and placed in
the tomb. When Jesus heard of their distress he said to his disciples, “I
go that I may awake him out of sleep.” And when the home was reached and
the burial place of Lazarus pointed out “Jesus wept;” and at his command
the stone was taken from the cave and Lazarus was brought to life, even
though he had been in the grave four days. The unbelieving crowd saw
Jesus had power to make alive, and the result was many “believed on him.”
There was not much to be seen in the little village,—a church, a few
houses, and very many beggars,—and as the day was well spent we all
decided not to tarry very long, but to return to the hotel in the city
of Jerusalem and rest, for every one of us was tired. Our tramps were
always long ones, and at the close of a day rest was sweet.
I presume there are but few of you who have not heard of “Bethlehem of
Judea.” It is spoken of as “Ephrath,” and is known to be the birthplace
of David and Christ.
We left Jerusalem by the Jaffa Gate, a party of eighteen, and every
one mounted upon the back of a horse. Our company consisted of two
Australians, seven Englishmen, two Germans, one Scotchman, and six
Americans. Eight of the number were women. Not one of the party was under
the age of thirty-five years. You will see that none of us were children.
My experience in horseback riding was quite limited, therefore I did
poorly. The rest were good riders because they had experience. We got
along pretty well, and the practice of that day prepared us all for the
many days of hard riding which followed. The desire to be upon my feet,
rather than upon the back of a horse, was never quite overcome.
Our horses seldom got out of a walk, because of the poor condition of
the roads. Fast riding in Palestine is very seldom engaged in, and as a
rule horses have their own way, regulating their gait to suit themselves.
A number of people were on the road, walking and riding donkeys. The
animals were so small that when the riders’ feet hung down they touched
the ground, which sight amused us greatly. Our English sidesaddles were
quite a novelty to them, and they scarcely raised their eyes higher than
where the saddles were located. In their minds the Arabs were probably
comparing the neatness of our saddles to the clumsy looking things used
by them.
Bethlehem is about six miles from Jerusalem, and those six miles seemed
very long ones to us, for the road was hard to travel. The country was
extremely stony, and we wondered how grain could find soil in which to
sprout. Fields were passed from which enough stones had been picked to
make a fence which was, perhaps, one mile in length and wide enough for
several horsemen to ride abreast upon it.
Before reaching Bethlehem a shower of rain came up and the guide took us
into the tomb of Rachel for shelter. The tomb was well filled with Arab
men and women who had gone there before us, and when we all appeared
before them they scattered at a lively rate. Getting close to a party
of Christians would no doubt have made them very uncomfortable, so they
preferred to vacate.
Many, many years ago Jacob and Rachel were making a journey to Bethlehem,
and when but a short distance from the city “Rachel died, and was buried
in the way to Ephrath, which is Bethlehem. And Jacob set a pillar upon
her grave: that is the pillar of Rachel’s grave unto this day.”
Long, long ago the pillar which had been set up by Jacob disappeared;
but in its place stands a small white building with a dome. It is by the
roadside, and everybody looks upon it as marking the last resting place
of Jacob’s beloved wife. It is known all around as “Rachel’s Tomb,” and
it was into this tomb that we were taken to escape the falling rain.
[Illustration: _Rachel’s Tomb by the Roadside._]
During the reign of king Saul there was a man who was known as Jesse the
Bethlehemite, and he had a large family of very fine looking boys. The
Lord desired to make a new king to reign in the place of Saul, and one
of Jesse’s sons was to be the fortunate one. Samuel—and you know who he
was?—was appointed by the Lord to go and anoint the new king. But poor
Samuel was dreadfully afraid of king Saul, and said, “How can I go? If
Saul hear it, he will kill me.” But the Lord doeth all things well in
every instance, and in that matter he was not slack. “And Samuel did that
which the Lord spake, and came to Bethlehem.”
One by one the sons of Jesse were looked upon, but the Lord was not
satisfied with any excepting the very youngest, and he was a shepherd boy
“ruddy, and withal of a beautiful countenance, and goodly to look upon.”
Well, Samuel anointed him king to reign in the place of Saul, and David
was the boy’s name. I have often wondered whether he ever thought such
a high position would be given him. When the Lord desires workmen these
days he is just as liable to call them from the humble walks of life as
he did David, and remember he is watching you, and knows whether you will
be fit for his work; and no matter whether you are a farmer’s boy or a
homeless bootblack, when the Lord is ready he will call you.
This is, in a few words, the story of David the shepherd boy who was
made king in the place of Saul. Well, David came to be a great man and
everybody looked on him as such. He fought many battles, and in the “war
between the house of Saul and the house of David he grew stronger and
stronger.”
David had several sons and among the number was one whose name was
Absalom, and there was no one who received more praise for his beauty
than this third son of David, for we read that “from the sole of his foot
even to the crown of his head there was no blemish in him.” Absalom had
a fine head of hair and each year it was cut and weighed, and the weight
of it was astonishingly great. Now with all of his good looks—like many
another young man—Absalom was wicked, for he conspired against David and
stole the hearts of the people. The poor father was not aware of the
deceitfulness of his son until “there came a message to David, saying,
The hearts of the men of Israel are after Absalom,” and then to escape
the violence of the wicked son he “went forth, and all his household
after him, and tarried in a place that was far off.” Don’t you believe
that was a sorrowful sight when “David went up by the ascent of mount
Olivet, and wept as he went up”? Just think of him hurriedly walking over
the stones in his bare feet, and then think “all the people that was with
him covered every man his head, and they went up, weeping as they went
up.” Just think of the distress and heartache brought about by the action
of one wayward boy. Even though the father is made to suffer yet he loves
the son, and when David sent forth men to battle he gave this command,
“Deal gently for my sake with the young man, even with Absalom.” The
sword did not cut him asunder, but we read that “Absalom rode upon a
mule, and the mule went under a bough of a great oak, and he was taken
up between the heaven and the earth: and the mule that was under him
went away. And a certain man saw it, and told Joab, and said, Behold, I
saw Absalom hanging in an oak,” and that was the fate of a boy who loved
self more than any one else. But how do you imagine David felt when
tidings of the son’s death were brought him? When the runner who brought
the news was near enough to hear David’s voice, he called out, “Is the
young man Absalom safe?” And again we read that he wept; “and as he went,
thus he said, O my son Absalom! my son, my son Absalom! would God I had
died for thee, O Absalom, my son, my son!” When it was told how the king
was weeping “the victory that day was turned into mourning unto all the
people.”
Young people are prone to be ambitious, and that is all right; but, dear
young people, don’t let your ambitious desires cause you to disobey
father and mother and bring sadness and sorrow upon those who love you.
Think of sorrowing David, and then think of the beautiful son’s final
end, and may you learn from it what is becoming a child.
The tomb of Absalom is before you. We do not know by whom it was built,
but it is thought that it marks the site of the pillar which “Absalom in
his lifetime had taken and reared up for himself, which is in the king’s
dale,” and this tomb is in the valley east of Jerusalem.
The touching story of Ruth and Naomi comes to my mind while I write, and
my heart goes out in sympathy toward those lonely widows who perhaps
walked along the very road which we traveled over. The fields of Boaz
were no doubt quite near to Bethlehem, and I think of his kindness to
Ruth when he said, “Go not to glean in another field, neither go from
hence, but abide here fast by my maidens;” and then later on he said,
“Let her glean even among the sheaves, and reproach her not.” Truly a
good man was Boaz, and a deserving woman was Ruth.
[Illustration: _Absalom’s Tomb._]
There lived in Nazareth a man by the name of Joseph, and a woman whose
name was Mary. A law had been passed that all the world should be taxed,
so “all went to be taxed, every one in his own city.” Mary and Joseph
traveled a long, long distance, and upon their arrival in the city found,
to their sorrow, that there was no room for them in the inn. They were
tired, weary and almost sick, and had no place to rest. Oh, what a trying
time for them. While waiting to be taxed a child was born, a little baby
boy; and his mother “wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a
manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.” That seemed like
a poor place for the tender infant, but the angels kept good watch over
him. The name of the child was Jesus, and his birthplace was Bethlehem;
and he proved to be the Savior of the world, for when he reached manhood
he suffered and died that you and I might live. “The Church of the
Nativity” is said to cover the spot where Jesus was born; but we shall
never know for certain how much truth there is in the saying.
[Illustration: _A Dragoman._]
At the close of the day spent in Bethlehem the guide informed us we had
ridden almost twenty miles, and with astonishment we said, “No wonder we
were tired and weary.” Arrangements had been made for us to start the
following day on a long journey, which would take twenty-one days to
complete. Our home was to be in tents, and every mile of the road was to
be traveled over on horseback. Horses and mules were to carry baggage,
beds and bedding, dishes, cook stove and food. Trunks were left behind,
because much baggage was not allowed.
From now on we shall call our guide “the dragoman,” which means
interpreter. Mr. Heilpin spoke seven or eight languages with ease. He
was a tall, well-built man with commanding appearance. We were impressed
with the thought that he was quite able to take care of a large party of
dependent tourists.
We were to have left Jerusalem at an early hour in the morning, but a
heavy rain storm hindered us from starting at the appointed time. After
the rain slackened a little all started to the place where the horses
stood saddled and bridled. Just as we were about to mount, the rain came
down wonderfully fast, and there was somewhat of a desire to turn back
and take shelter in the hotel. Mr. Heilpin, the dragoman, would not hear
to it, and when he gave the order to go, we murmured not, but went. The
outlook was not very pleasant: to turn back was out of the question, and
a ride of twenty miles was to be made before reaching our camping place
in the evening. We moved on, bearing very sad looking faces and trying
hard to make the best of it.
Our journey took us by the Garden of Gethsemane and over the Mount of
Olives, the same road over which Christ rode on the back of a colt, on
his way to Jerusalem. We never expected to see the Holy City again,
and at this point we turned, looking back, and in our hearts we said,
Farewell, City of David, farewell.
The rain had ceased by that time, and the sun came forth bright and hot;
only for a little while, however, for in a very short time the rain came
down as fast as ever. My rain cloak seemed to protect me but poorly, for
by this time a good deal of water had gone through my clothing and it was
pretty well soaked.
Noontime came. We stopped in a dirty, dreary looking cave to eat our
luncheon. The servant who attended to our wants spread a cloth upon the
ground, and upon the cloth was placed the food which had been prepared in
Jerusalem. All of the party but myself sat around the cloth. I stood up
and ate what little was needed. As soon as possible I went out and stood
in the sun, which was again shining. Between the sun and wind I was made
more comfortable, and by the time we were ready to start my clothing was
quite dry. After luncheon we mounted our horses and were again on our way
to Jericho.
Somewhere on that road perhaps the good Samaritan came across the poor
man who had fallen among thieves, who had been stripped of his clothing,
wounded and left half dead. The road is considered unsafe yet, for
thieves still act unkindly toward those who travel over it.
Yosef was the name of the servant who helped with luncheon. He was quite
thoughtful of those in the party who called upon him, and always willing
to do their bidding. Much of the time he was found at my side, for I
seemed to be the one who needed him. He was a great fellow to talk, and
he chattered away leaving me to guess at what he was saying. His English
was limited, and I knew no Arabic at all, so it kept both busy trying to
think out what the other had said.
One time Yosef looked up in my face and called very cheerily in Arabic,
“Ain-es-Sultan, Ain-es-Sultan,” and while calling pointed with his finger
off in the distance. Repeatedly I said, “I don’t understand you, Yosef.”
And again the same “Ain-es-Sultan” was called out, and he motioned with
his head, as much as to say, Yes, there it is, away over there. But what
was it? That was the question. “What does Yosef want to tell us?” we
asked the dragoman. “He is trying to tell you we shall soon be at the
Prophet’s Fountain,”—the very one which Elisha threw salt into. It is
said that all the water around there is poor; but we know the water in
the Prophet’s Fountain is splendid.
Our camping place was on a high knoll near the flowing fountain, and when
the camping place was reached a beautiful sight met our gaze. Before us
were eleven white tents, and floating above one of them was the American
flag,—the Stars and Stripes. As my eyes fell upon it I called out to the
American portion of the party, “Look at the old flag; how I wish it might
fly above our tent.”
It took but a short time to dismount, but a much longer time to stand
straight after being upon our feet. Men know nothing of the torture women
must endure sitting sidewise on a saddle. But we got all right after a
while. When a tent was assigned us we forthwith went to it; and there,
sure enough, the old flag was flying above it. The sight of it made me
homesick. Yes, I thought of America, so far away, and my eyes filled
brimful of tears. There was no time for tears, so I brushed them away and
in a very short time after we were all called to dinner.
After dinner was over the dragoman informed us that he had a chest which
he slept upon every night, and that our watches, money and valuables
should be handed to him for safe keeping. Furthermore he said: “In each
tent will be found a long piece of rope; use it in tying your loose
baggage to your bedstead. Your clothing, boots and shoes you will put
in as safe a place as possible.” When he finished his remarks we seemed
spellbound; but we were at Jericho, and we knew the reputation of the
country was not any better than it used to be. The servants kept watch
all night, and yet, notwithstanding that, the natives could have crawled
into the tents and taken everything within their reach if any of them had
chanced to be around.
There were nine sleeping tents, and each person had an iron bedstead with
mattress, two linen sheets, one blanket, a white spread and one pillow
with a case upon it; and every one of the tents was numbered. The number
of ours was nine. All of the party seemed to have enjoyed the good, warm
meal, and a little time was spent in talking of what had been seen during
the day. But bedtime came and each one retired to his tent. After tying
the baggage to our bedsteads, placing boots, shoes and clothing under
our head and feet, we crawled into the little beds. Sleep overcame us,
and in a little while we were in dreamland. My sleep was broken, for
every movement outside of the tent caused my eyes to open wide, and much
time was wasted in looking for the thieving Arab who never put in an
appearance.
Hyenas and jackals are numerous in that country, and during the nights
they bark long and loud. Sometimes they seemed not very far from the
camp. Very likely they would have ventured into camp; but a bright fire
was kept burning, and seated around it were the watching servants.
Early the next morning all hands were aroused by the rattling of tin
pans which were in the hands of the servants. The banging noise was
distressing to listen to, and we wished the pans were far enough away.
Some were slow to rise, even with such deafening noise. But they soon
learned that it was useless to even think of taking a second nap after
the first banging of pans. Every morning from that on the deafening music
was heard. Breakfast was always ready for us, and no time was wasted in
waiting.
Our meals were usually very good. There was tea, coffee, bread, butter,
eggs and omelette,—composed of eggs, milk and salt. Condensed milk was
used for coffee; the butter was canned too; it was never fresh, but
always very soft. A little of it went a great ways. Indeed, many times it
was left untouched by us. We did not tarry very long after breakfast on
the camp ground, for our horses were saddled and the dragoman waiting to
take the party to the Dead Sea and the Jordan.
The modern village of Jericho was passed through, and not a house was to
be seen; nothing but Bedouin Arab tents. You know Jesus passed through
Jericho on his way to Jerusalem. There Zaccheus lived, and you remember
he was small of stature. He wanted to see Jesus when he passed by, but
the crowd was so great that there was no chance for him; so he ran ahead
of the crowd and climbed up a tree, and there he could see all who passed.
Our riding was usually done single file, for all through that country the
roads are bad. The sun was extremely hot, and a nice shade would have
been agreeable to all; but we could not choose the path, so we journeyed
on and on.
The people in that part of the country are not very thrifty,—more
inclined to be lazy. They never plant trees, and I presume never think of
gardening.
Many thorn trees were to be seen as we journeyed on, and the dragoman
told us that the crown of thorns which was placed upon the head of our
Savior is supposed to have been made with thorns taken from the trees
which grow there. Such long, pointed thorns! Oh, how sad to think of the
tender flesh being pierced by them! Jesus was scourged,—severely whipped.
That ought to have been enough suffering; but here came the soldiers with
a platted crown of thorns, and placed it upon the tender head. Still not
enough; he was nailed to a cross and then his side was pierced with a
spear. Oh, what agony! The cup of sorrow was full. Christ drank it, and
the will of the Lord was done. Children, do you know he died for you?
Yes, for all of us. He has left us many good instructions and among them
is this, “Pray that ye enter not into temptation.”
As we neared the Dead Sea the country grew more barren looking. The
ground in places was covered with salt and sulphur. No flowers were
growing there, and not a bird could be seen flying around, so we
pronounced it a desolate place because no living thing was in sight. If
you look at the picture closely you may see a few small pieces of wood
upon the ground, but not a blade of grass. I imagine those large sticks
which stand together are intended to have canvas thrown over them to be
used by bathers, for travelers often bathe in the Dead Sea just for the
novelty of it. Owing to the rain which fell fast the day we were there,
not any of our party ventured in. We did not tarry very long, for there
was but little pleasure in being at such a desolate place.
The Arab who kept close to my side, so that assistance might be given
when needed, did not ride a horse or donkey, but walked every step of
the way. Arabs are the greatest fellows to walk I ever heard of, and
they never seemed one bit tired when night came. The boy usually kept up
with the horse, but occasionally he would hurry back, and at such times
I heard him pounding something. My curiosity was at last aroused, and on
looking back I beheld him hammering a piece of hard bread and breaking
it in tiny little pieces. Now you may think we were sorry for the poor
fellow, and that day instead of eating luscious oranges for luncheon we
gave them to him. It was surprising to know how quickly they disappeared.
After eating them he said, “Me very good donkey boy; backsheesh.” We had
orders not to give money, or anything else, to the servants, because they
would give us trouble with their continual begging. We found there was
some truth in the matter, so from that time on nothing more was given
them.
[Illustration: _Men Bathing in Dead Sea._]
The wind was blowing hard the day we saw the Dead Sea and the heavy water
was in commotion. The waves rolled on the shore making quite a roaring
sound. The water is intensely bitter and salty, and after having tasted
some of it I felt sorry enough, for the bitter taste was in my mouth the
rest of the day, and even now I almost shudder when thinking of it.
You know this body of water is spoken of in Scripture as the “salt sea,”
“the sea of the plain” and the “east sea.” Not a fish is found in its
waters and the name Dead Sea seems fitting, for it is death to animal
life.
A ride of perhaps four miles brought us to the banks of the river
Jordan, and there we dismounted and ate our luncheon. Oh what a relief
to be upon our feet again and then to be under the shade of trees. The
contrast between this resting place and the last one was great, for there
everything was dead; here were green grass and beautiful trees.
Do you remember the Bible story of John the Baptist who preached in
the wilderness of Judea? You know great crowds of people went from all
parts of the country to hear him, for he told them something they had
never heard before. This man was very poor and wore the coarsest kind
of clothing, which was camel’s hair, “and a leathern girdle about his
loins.” He ate the simplest kind of food, consisting of locusts and
wild honey. Though poor his ministry was successful, and many people
confessed their sins and went down into the water and were “baptized of
him in Jordan,” the very river on whose banks we ate our noonday lunch.
The people wondered “whether he was the Christ or not,” and John, not
desiring to receive any more reverence than belonged to him, said to
the people, “He that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes
I am not worthy to bear.” In time Jesus appeared and desired baptism,
but John felt too unworthy to baptize such a personage as Jesus, so
refused to administer it, saying, “I have need to be baptized of thee,
and comest thou to me?” Well, they talked the matter over and the Savior
said, “Suffer it to be so now,” and the good preacher complied with the
wish; after which John and Jesus came “up straightway out of the water:
and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the spirit of God
descending like a dove, and lighting upon him.”
The Jordan is mentioned many times in the Scriptures, and we feel that
every part of it is sacred. We cannot tell where John baptized the
blessed Master, or where Elisha told Naaman to wash seven times that he
might be healed of the leprosy, but we do know that the river Jordan
which we saw is the same river in which John baptized Jesus and a great
multitude of people.
The name of no other river is known so far away as that of the Jordan.
And why should not Christians of all ages love to read and talk about it?
Thousands of Christians all over the world, and of every nation, have
made pilgrimages to Palestine expressly to stand on the banks of the
river, or, better yet, to bathe in its waters. It was enough for us to
stand on its banks, to see the trees in full leaf, and to sit upon the
beautiful green grass and partake of the good things of earth.
[Illustration: _River Jordan._]
The picture which you see is a good representation of the river, and
unless you view the stream itself you will never see a more perfect
picture.
We left the banks of the sacred stream after luncheon and rode back to
our camp at Jericho. While riding along the Arab guards entertained us by
showing how wonderfully well they managed their horses. A motion of the
hand gave the horse to understand that a circle was to be made, and with
surprise we watched them make it. The horse and rider understood each
other well.
Our dragoman joined in the ride, and it seemed an easy matter for him
to outride his Arab friends. He had a swift-footed Arabian horse, and
at times it seemed that its feet scarcely touched the grass as it moved
along. A gentleman of our party joined the ride, and it was plain to see
that he was not used to managing a horse as well as the rest.
When near a small village women were seen carrying upon their heads great
stacks of wood and brush. What drudges! we thought; and while watching
them walk along we wondered whether the poor creatures ever became
discouraged with their lot, whether they would be willing to exchange
the life of drudgery for one of comfort and ease if a way were opened to
them. Down deep in my heart I felt wonderfully blessed in being allowed
to live in a land where women are on an equality with men and not beneath
them, as is the case in Palestine.
On reaching camp in the evening the dragoman informed us that we had
ridden twenty-four miles during that day. You may well imagine we were
surprised to hear it, and you may know we were exceedingly tired and
anxious for rest. Two nights were spent at the same camping place, but
the dragoman said we should take a long ride the next day; consequently
all must arise early in the morning. Sweet sleep did not come to me that
night and there was no chance to nap in the morning, for the tin can
pounding and bell ringing aroused us at four o’clock. Oh, what a noise!
Wedding serenaders in the country are the only ones who are able to make
music to compare with it. Quickly we arose and hastily dressed, then made
our way to the dining tent; and while we partook of the morning meal our
tents were taken down and packed upon the back of mules and donkeys.
There they stood, loaded with camp fixtures, and before the camp ground
was vacated cook stove, bed and bedding and large boxes of dishes, and
victuals were all packed for the journey. The order to mount our horses
was given, and as soon as possible we were upon their backs.
Camp had been at the foot of the mountain, so up, up, up we went, right
from the start. The roads were in a terrible condition, and sometimes it
seemed almost impossible to cross the deep gullies which the water had
washed in them.
Three servants accompanied us now instead of one, as heretofore,—Yosef,
Mustaff, and an Abyssinian who was extremely black. These three kept very
close to us while riding along, so that assistance might be rendered when
desired. I have a distinct recollection of seeing some very large holes
in the road, which the servants were compelled to fill with stones while
we were waiting, so that we might pass over. I also call to mind times
when one of the men led the ladies’ horses while the second one held
them on, and very carefully did the trusty animals step until over those
dangerous places. The gentlemen of the party received help too; but one
servant was all that was needed, for there was no chance for them to slip
off of the back of their horses.
We were in the saddle long before sunrise, and after riding an hour or
more the top of the first hill was reached and a short stop made. In
looking back we saw the sun coming from behind Mount Nebo; and oh what a
beautiful picture of the Dead Sea and the winding Jordan! Time was too
precious to be spent in looking long at one picture, so we rode on, and
that day proved to be the most trying day’s ride of the whole twenty-one.
[Illustration]
CHAPTER IX.
_Strange Kind of Fuel.—The Village Oven.—Women’s Work.—Fresh Bread.—The
Little Baby.—Landmarks.—Bethel.—My Faithful Friend.—A Trying Time in
the Saddle.—Sinjal._
In some towns and villages wood is very scarce and the fuel consists of
grass and dried manure. When riding through a village one day we noticed
something sticking against the low stone wall, and we naturally wondered
what the strange decoration could be. On getting near the wall, to our
utter surprise, we found it to be manure which women had made into cakes
and placed there to dry. Some day it would be cast into the oven with the
bunches of grass.
In our Savior’s time grass was burned; for we read, “Wherefore, if God
so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and to morrow is cast
into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith?”
The village oven was rather odd looking, being shaped very much like a
large jug. There was an opening near the ground for fire, and a hole in
the top for the escape of smoke.
When bread is made by mixing flour and water into a thin batter, it is
baked by being poured on the outside of a heated oven. This makes thin,
wafer-like cakes. But when a stiff dough is made it is baked between two
fires made of manure; and when baked in that way it is said the smell of
manure is noticeable. We did not tarry long in that village, therefore
escaped tasting the vile stuff called bread.
Baking seems to have been women’s work ages ago, for we have an account
of Samuel telling the Israelites what they might expect if a new
king reigned over them, as they greatly desired. After enumerating
many things, Samuel said, “And he will take your daughters to be
confectionaries, and to be cooks, and to be bakers.” Then we read how
“two women shall be grinding at the mill, the one shall be taken, and the
other left.” Grinding flour in small stone mills daily was woman’s work,
and making bread followed immediately after. But I have written enough
to show that what we saw corresponded well with Bible accounts; and it
greatly strengthened our belief in the Book of books.
When we started from Jerusalem there was bread enough taken along to
supply our wants till the city of Nazareth was reached; but by that time
it was not only very stale, but mouldy too. When the fresh supply was
given us you may be sure it was welcome. Our bread was baked in the city
oven and wood used for fuel. There may have been plenty of dirt in the
flour, but I am very sure there was no odor of manure about the bread.
While riding from one camping place to another we passed very large
grain fields which were beautifully green. In one of those fields I
remember having seen three persons—man, woman and baby—and they were one
family. The mother was working hard pulling weeds out of the grain and
the father—lazy man that he was—rocked the baby; for it was in a little
homemade hammock. Two sticks had been pounded in the ground; to them the
baby’s cradle had been fastened, and it took but a slight movement to
send the little one back and forth,—a very easy task for one so strong.
And we thought the man would feel ashamed to have strangers see him
sitting there employed in that kind of work. But—do you know?—instead of
being ashamed he seemed pleased.
Fences are not seen in Palestine, but the limit of each man’s land is
known by what is called a landmark. It usually consists of a heap of
stones placed at the corner of the owner’s land. Persons passing through
fields are not always aware whose land they are passing over. Especially
is it so if you are a stranger in the country. You know Ruth was a
stranger in and around Bethlehem; and when she had permission from Naomi
to go and gather ears of corn she happened to get “on a part of the field
belonging unto Boaz.”
There are dishonest people all over the world. In the Bible we read of
such characters, and we come to a passage like this: “Some remove the
landmarks; they violently take away flocks, and feed thereof.” You see
the heap of stones is taken away and nothing is left to mark the boundary
line.
At noon we lunched in the ruins of an old church in Bethel. There is
where Abram and Lot stopped after leaving Mesopotamia. “And there he
builded an altar unto the Lord, and called upon the name of the Lord.”
“And Esau hated Jacob because of the blessing wherewith his father
blessed him.” To get away from the angry brother, Jacob fled from home.
After traveling until tired and weary, he found a resting place. The sun
was set, so Jacob concluded to remain where he was during the night. He
had no bed, or pillow either; but “he took of the stones of that place
and put them for his pillows, and lay down in this place to sleep.” He
had a wonderful dream; and possibly you may call it to mind. Then Jacob
was afraid; so he “rose up early in the morning, and took the stone that
he had put for his pillows, and set it up for a pillar, and he called the
name of that place Bethel.”
Bethel was a poor village on a hill; the people were half naked, hungry
looking creatures, and it seemed to me that all the men and boys of the
village had made it a point to be in the ruins of the church that day.
My luncheon was not enjoyed, for the sight of those hungry people took
away my appetite. The dragoman did not offer them anything, for no doubt
he decided it was utterly impossible to furnish food for hungry tourists
and a village full of people besides. A bone was thrown to a dog which
stood looking on; but the poor fellow lost it, for a gray-bearded Arab
caught the animal, took it from him, and without one bit of embarrassment
undertook the task of gnawing that bone himself. The dog showed signs
of resentment, but no account was kept of that, so the bone was never
returned.
The people there are a lazy set, and they almost starve. No attention is
paid to farming or gardening, consequently food is scarce and clothing
scant. I never waste sympathy on full-grown lazy people; but the poor,
half-starved looking children and dogs I felt sorry for.
After resting a while at this place the order was given to move on, and
very soon after we were on the road traveling wearily along. My horse
was a very gentle animal, and I had a kindly feeling in my heart for
him. Horses in that country get along without a name; but I proposed
_my_ faithful friend should have one, so I called him “John.” He was not
a beautiful animal; oh, no! Really, he was the ugliest animal in the
company; but I didn’t care. His ears were short—looked as though they had
been nipped with frost; then, in addition to that, they had slits cut in
them—a distinguishing mark which his master had given him—and I, like his
master, could always tell John from all the other horses. If by accident
some one had taken him, I was sure to be unhappy till he was returned.
John and I got along real well. He didn’t care to trot along briskly,
and I was very willing to let him do as he pleased in the matter. Well,
to tell the truth, children, I was cowardly, and fast riding made me
feel as though I was going to fall right off. Now, I hadn’t one bit of a
desire to get off of John’s back suddenly, and the very thought of such a
thing scared me; so we moved along in a lazy sort of a way. Occasionally
a servant thought he would put some life in John by using a club; but I
allowed no interference. We suited each other exactly, and I’m quite sure
John missed me when the last day’s ride was ended.
My saddle was a real good English sidesaddle, but, unfortunately for me,
it continually slipped out of position on the horse’s back. At first
thought it seemed to need tightening up; but after doing so several times
we found that kind of doctoring proved to be of little account; for every
time I took my position over went the saddle again. There was but little
enjoyment in the ride that day, for my time was spent in trying to sit
erect upon the horse’s back. Hour after hour my distress increased, until
it seemed hardly possible to ride longer. The continued strain weakened
my back so that I could scarcely sit up. Walking would have been a
pleasure; but such a thing was out of the question, for the company would
ride faster than I could walk, and so leave me far behind.
The day was far spent and it was drawing on toward sundown. Camp, they
said, was not many miles away. Oh, how we wished it was only a few steps;
but on we rode, with a strong desire to get to the place of rest as soon
as possible.
The company was somewhat divided that day. Some of them were away on
ahead of us, and a few were quite a little distance behind. The road was
very narrow, and so it was necessary to ride single file. There were
rocks of all sizes in the road, and some measuring five or six feet in
width lying just outside of the path. When only a few feet away from one
of them my strength gave way, and the back which had served me so well
all day refused to be tried any longer. Near by was my husband, and with
trembling voice I said to him, “Please help me, or I shall surely fall,
for I’m unable to sit here longer.” He sprang to my side, and just in
time to keep me from falling from the horse’s back. Those great flat
rocks came in use now, for my husband placed me upon one of them, and for
a while I lay there with my face down. “Oh, what shall we do if I can
ride no further?” I thought, “and so far from home and friends.” Ah, home
never seemed dearer than then; and, children, I was foolish enough to
shed tears. But I want to tell you it doesn’t pay to shed tears. It does
not show bravery, and when sorely tried one needs to brace up. I brushed
my tears away and took fresh courage; and let me tell you the Lord helped
me do it.
Our horses were anxious, to get to their resting place, so quietly they
walked on. The ladies and gentlemen who were riding behind came along one
by one, passing us on their way to camp, and they carried word that “Mrs.
Miller has fainted.” After resting a while we left the rock and together
walked on to camp. When almost there the dragoman met us saying, “I was
just on my way to bring you in.”
You can imagine how glad we were when camp was reached, for there stood
the tents, and there was the place of rest. The beds had been made nicely
and I found rest upon one of them. Shall I ever forget that experience
while passing through the Holy Land? I think not.
“How could you stand such a journey?” has been asked me time and again,
and as many times have I answered, “The Lord gave me strength according
as I needed it;” for I was unused to hardships and not any stronger than
the majority of women. It is quite necessary on a journey like that to
be patient, uncomplaining and not fretful, and the Lord is able to give
us that kind of a disposition if we call upon him. Many of us would have
turned back to Jerusalem willingly, but there was no such thing as going
back after having once started. Onward was the cry, and if sickness came
upon us we were carried along. If death should be the lot of any one a
grave by the roadside would be the last resting place. Such graves were
passed, and how sad we felt at the thought of some lonely pilgrim having
been laid by the roadside.
Each day some one of the women felt it almost impossible to go further;
but it made no difference, they rode on and on, murmuring not in the
least.
I told you the roads were in a dreadful condition. The stones were so
plentiful it was hard work to see the path much of the way. The horses
walked with noses down, smelling as they walked along. In that way they
found there truly was a path, and that other horses had gone over the
same rocks.
Many of the party had falls from their horses, but no one was hurt. All
were so tired they scarcely knew what to do; but I was the only one who
had given out. We had traveled thirty-four miles during that day and had
been in the saddle almost eleven hours.
Sinjal is the name of an Arab village, and on a high hill near by our
tents were pitched that night. Owing to the fact that I was worn out, I
saw nothing of the people or village.
We were up the next morning early, not entirely rested; indeed, very far
from it; but when ready to mount our horses I was delighted to find the
saddle had been adjusted satisfactorily, thanks to my husband, who had
insisted upon a change that I might not be compelled to ride in such
misery another eleven hours. The fault lay in John; his back was not
suited to the saddle, and the lack of flesh was supplied with padding;
and ever after that I rode comfortably and never became exhausted again.
All that day I was not able to guide my horse, because of extreme
weakness; but faithful Yosef led John, and silently we went on.
[Illustration]
CHAPTER X.
_Shiloh.—Jacob’s Well.—Tomb of Joseph.—Shechem.—Samaria.—Gibeah.—Dothan
in the Distance.—Fountain of Gideon.—Shunem.—Shunammite’s Son.—Nain._
The country through which we passed was less stony, and the roads were
more smooth and level. Horses and riders seemed glad for the change and
enjoyed it immensely. Land was under better cultivation, for olive and
fig trees were there, and everywhere were signs of thrift.
When camp was reached a distance of twenty-two miles had been traveled.
The tents were pitched at Shechem, but we took the road which leads to
the old city of Shiloh, where a heap of ruins with broken columns was
seen. Far back in history interesting things are told about Shiloh, for
it was one of the foremost places of the Old World.
The children of Israel set up a tabernacle there. Several of the tribes
had not received their inheritance. At the suggestion of Joshua three men
from each tribe were chosen and sent out to describe the land; and on
their return with the description “Joshua cast lots for them in Shiloh
before the Lord: and there Joshua divided the land unto the children of
Israel according to their division.”
The ark of the Lord rested at Shiloh many years. Now the ark of the Lord
was the sacred chest which held the tables of the law, and while it was
there feasts were held annually, and the people worshiped and offered
sacrifice unto the Lord.
Not far from Shiloh lived a man whose name was Elkanah; and yearly both
he and his good wife Hannah went to “worship and sacrifice unto the Lord
of hosts.” Hannah grieved because she had neither sons nor daughters,
and when they went to Shiloh to sacrifice she prayed long and fervently
to the Lord, saying, “I will give him unto the Lord all the days of his
life.”
Well, time rolled on and Hannah’s prayer was answered; the Lord gave a
little son to the faithful woman, and she called him Samuel, “because I
have asked him of the Lord.” The promise made by the mother long before
had not been forgotten, and as soon as the child was old enough Hannah
took little Samuel away to Shiloh and gave him to Eli, the high priest,
saying, “I have lent him to the Lord; and he worshiped the Lord there.”
Children, don’t you think the mother felt lonely going back to her home
without the bright, prattling little fellow? Surely she missed him,
but not a word of complaint was uttered. She said, however, “My heart
rejoiceth in the Lord.” Oh, how she praised the Lord, and her song of
thanksgiving was long. I would like to tell you about Eli, who judged
Israel forty years, and who, through neglect of duty in the raising of
his sons, had to suffer the consequences; but it is time to leave the
ruined city and go on toward our lunching place, which was at “Jacob’s
well.” There were no trees to shelter us from the noonday sun, so those
who had umbrellas made use of them. All Christian people think of Jacob’s
well as being a sacred place, and we could not help but think of the
Bible characters who once stood where we were then resting. Our mind went
back to the time when Jesus was there, sitting upon the rim of the well
and talking to the woman who had come to draw water.
Jesus had been to Jerusalem during the passover season, and while there
had found men who were selling sheep, oxen and doves in the temple. Such
desecration could not be tolerated, so he chased them all out; and after
giving them some good lessons he journeyed on toward Galilee. He was
weary from the long journey, and while his disciples went to the city to
buy something to eat he sat and rested. Even though tired he did not fail
to teach the Samaritan woman some good lessons. There he told her of the
water of eternal life; and there he revealed himself unto her, saying,
“I that speak unto thee am he.” Jesus had a message for the Samaritans,
and the woman carried it to them. At first it was hard to understand what
Jesus meant. She pointed to the mountain which was not faraway and said,
“Our fathers worshiped in this mountain: and ye say, that in Jerusalem is
the place where men ought to worship.” But Jesus showed her plainly what
he desired, and without waiting for the water pot, she went into the city
and told what Jesus had said to her. Many went to see him; they insisted
upon Jesus staying with them, and he was there two days. Before he left
“many more believed because of his own word.”
A church was built over the well many years ago, but nothing is to be
seen of it now. An arch which at one time covered it had broken away, and
through the opening a descent of several feet was made, when the mouth of
Jacob’s well was reached. The company desired to taste the water, so by
the help of Arabs who stood by, and with the use of pieces of rope tied
together and fastened to an old can, their wish was gratified and each
one tasted water from the well which had been dug in Bible times.
The time of resting ended, and Jacob’s well was left behind. Our next
stop was to be made at the tomb of Joseph, supposed to be the real burial
place of Jacob’s favorite son. The story of Joseph’s life is extremely
interesting, and I should take great pleasure in telling it to you, but
space forbids. The time came for the good man to die, and the cares and
toils of life ended. His body was embalmed—as was the custom of the
country—and placed in a coffin. “And the bones of Joseph, which the
children of Israel brought up out of Egypt, buried they in Shechem.”
When the famine was great in the land where Joseph’s father and brethren
dwelt, he was greatly concerned; and when the brethren asked for corn
after their arrival in Egypt it was not withheld from them, even when
Joseph had power to do so. Prosperity had not closed this good man’s
heart against home folks, though he had been shamefully treated by them.
I think a lesson of love may be learned, for hatred was far from his
heart, and in every action love was made manifest.
We rode on from Joseph’s tomb until the valley of Shechem was entered.
There we were between two mountains,—Gerizim, where the blessing of
obedience was pronounced, and Ebal, where cursings upon the rebellious
were made known.
Our camping place was at the foot of the mountains, and while some of
the party with the dragoman made the ascent of Gerizim others went on
to camp. Mr. Heilpin informed us that the ascent of the mountain would
be rather a hard one, so we that were tired preferred going on to camp;
therefore only a few of the company undertook the climb. The tents were
pitched on a piece of level ground beneath the steep ascent of Gerizim,
and only a short distance from the city of Nablus.
In Bible times the city went by the name of Sichem or Shechem. It was the
chief city of the Samaritans for years and years, because of the temple
which was erected on Mount Gerizim. There are still a few Samaritans
in Nablus, and it is said that at certain times of the year they go to
Gerizim and offer sacrifices as did their fathers before them. There is
no temple for them to worship in now, for it was destroyed ever so many
years ago.
Abram knew something about Shechem, too, for it was there that he made
his first stop after leaving Haran; and there he built an altar. Shechem
was also known as a city of refuge in Bible times. You see the Lord told
Joshua to tell the children of Israel to appoint cities of refuge. Any
one who had been unfortunate enough to accidentally kill a man could,
by fleeing thither and getting inside the gates, find safety from his
pursuers. Several cities were appointed for that purpose, and Shechem was
one of the number.
Nablus is quite a large city, and a very dirty one, too. The houses
are built of stone and the streets are very narrow. A great many soap
factories were there, and many heaps of ashes could be seen outside the
city. Lepers are there, and many of them, too,—poor, afflicted creatures.
We were fortunate to escape seeing them, as they did not happen to get
where we were.
Wherever we camped men, women and children of the cities flocked to see
us, and Nablus was no exception to the rule. Curiously they watched every
movement, and no doubt were highly entertained. Sometimes it was quite
annoying to us, yet we were pleased to know insults were never offered.
It was almost dark when the company who had gone up the mountain
returned. Shortly after the call for dinner,—the evening meal,—was given,
and gladly did we all respond. One hour was usually spent at a meal, and
only a short time passed between it and the time of retiring, and we were
always as glad to go to our little beds as to eat a meal.
The next morning at seven o’clock we left Shechem, going toward Samaria.
By this time I was able to ride with ease and comfort, for I had rested
from the extreme fatigue of a few days before. We rode through the
beautiful green valleys and enjoyed it very much. The saddle kept to its
place upon the horse’s back, and riding was a pleasure instead of a dread.
Samaria is a small, dirty village now, and hedges of cactus surround
it. Ruins seem to tell the story of the grandeur of former years, as we
read that “Samaria shall become desolate: for she hath rebelled against
her God.” The city had been built by a king whose name was Omri, who
reigned over Israel twelve years; then he died and was buried in Samaria.
Omri was a very bad man and his wickedness was worse than that of the
kings who had ruled before him. He had a son whose name was Ahab, and
for twenty-two years he ruled Israel. Having had a bad example set him
by his father, and being no doubt wicked by nature, it was not hard for
Ahab to go on in wickedness; so he “reared an altar for Baal in the house
of Baal, which was in Samaria.” You see the city was the seat of idol
worship, and a good place to do mission work; so Philip undertook the
task and preached Christ to them, and the people “all gave heed, from the
least to the greatest.”
There was not time for a lengthy stay at Samaria, so we journeyed on.
Olive groves, fig orchards and almond trees were seen over the valley and
the hillside, with here and there barley fields.
Noon drew near, and we stopped at a place supposed to be Gibeah, and
there we ate lunch, in a fine old olive grove whose trees were a
protection for us; and for two hours we rested, sheltered from the hot
sun.
We left Gibeah, and rode on into a broad valley. A mountain was seen far
away to the north, and they called it Mount Hermon. With the aid of our
field glass snow was seen upon it, and an Australian lady of the party
seemed glad to know there was a possibility of getting where snow really
was, for, said she, “I never saw snow in my life.”
Dothan was in the distance, too, and you know that is the place where
Joseph went to seek his brethren, and where they sold him to the company
of Ishmaelites. Everywhere you look the eye falls upon places which are
familiar to the Bible reader. There in view were the mountains of Gilboa
where Saul and Jonathan were slain, and there, too, was Mount Carmel, the
home of the prophet.
We descended a steep, rocky road into a valley again, and passed a
Bedouin camp on the way. Only a short time passed when we were made to
rejoice at the sight of our tents, the only home we had. A twenty-eight
mile ride in one day was a tiresome piece of work, and when we rode into
camp and saw the tents it was truly a beautiful sight.
Early the next morning we were up and ready for a day’s ride to
Nazareth,—another hard day in the saddle. At the close of the day we
found our tents pitched at Jenin. From there we rode on to the fountain
of Gideon, which we found to be a nice, large fountain of pure, clear
water coming out of a cave in the side of the mountain. One time the Lord
told Gideon to take his army to that fountain and there he would try them
for him. At first there were many thousand men; but the Lord said that
only those who lapped water with their tongue, as a dog does, should go
with Gideon. The men never knew they were to be tried that way; so they
were sent down to the fountain, and some of them lapped the water, while
others bowed down on their knees and drank. Those who lapped the water
Gideon took and with them fought the Midianites, and Israel was saved by
Gideon with only three hundred men.
We rode on directly to Jezreel. There Ahab had his home many years ago.
No doubt in sight of where we were was the vineyard of Naboth which Ahab
coveted.
Not very far from Jezreel is Sulem, the ancient Shunem of Bible times.
It may have been a fine city then, but now it is a small village with a
few huts inside of a cactus hedge. We rested and ate our noonday meal in
the village. The touching story of the Shunammite woman came to our mind
while there. We wondered where the house of the great woman with whom
Elisha was constrained to eat bread was located. Elisha was a prophet who
passed through the city often, and whenever it was convenient he rested
at the house, and the woman and her husband felt themselves honored when
called upon to entertain him. They knew he was a holy man, so decided to
make a room for him on the wall, fitting it up with bed, table, stool and
candlestick,—all of the conveniences,—so that when Elisha came around
it would be found ready. Those people had a son whom they dearly loved.
One time the boy went to his father in the field—just as little boys in
this country sometimes do—and shortly after he was heard to say, “My
head, my head.” A lad carried him to his mother and “he sat on her knees
till noon, and then died.” She placed the lifeless body of her little
boy upon the bed of Elisha, then closed the door, called her husband
and said, “Send me, I pray thee, one of the young men, and one of the
asses, that I may run to the man of God and come again.” The husband was
surprised to know she wanted to go to see the man of God then, never
thinking, I suppose, that the beloved son had died. “It shall be well,”
was all she had time to say, and then, in a great hurry, she and the
servant departed.
The prophet was found, and the sorrowful story related. What a journey
the woman had in the burning sun,—for she went clear to Mount Carmel,—but
a mother’s love is enduring and unselfish. She thought only of the dear
one, and having him brought to life again. At first the prophet thought
to send Gehazi with his staff, but the woman would not hear to such a
thing and refused to leave until Elisha “arose and followed her.” All
three of them went to the desolate home, and when the prophet was alone
with the dead child he prayed to the Lord and put his mouth to the mouth
of the child, and his hands upon the hands of the little one and warmed
him up in that way. By and by the little boy sneezed, yes, seven times;
then his eyes opened. The woman was called. “Then she went in and fell
at his feet, and bowed herself to the ground, and took up her son, and
went out.” What a lesson of trust there is in this Bible story; and the
Lord may be trusted these days just as well as then, if we only feel like
doing so.
Our luncheon was eaten under lemon trees, but I believe there was not one
bit of grass anywhere around us. There were crowds of children who came
out from the village to see us, and I wondered whether the Shunammite’s
son looked anything like those children. Their actions were very rude,
and quite annoying to us, for almost continually they called out,
“Backsheesh, backsheesh,” and no matter how much backsheesh was given
them they could not be persuaded to leave.
Backsheesh means a gift, and the inhabitants of that country expect all
travelers to give them something. We had nothing but money for them, and
each piece received had to be taken home, have a hole punched in it, and
then strung on a string; after which they were tied around the forehead
and worn as ornaments. Every time the head moved the coins jingled. Boys
and girls were dressed alike, so it was hard to say who wore the money.
Some women were washing clothes at a fountain near the edge of the
village, and I am sure you never saw any one wash as strangely as they.
I do not know whether they used soap; anyway, the water did not indicate
it. A garment was dipped in the water and made soaking wet. Then it was
placed upon a large stone which was hollowed out a little. A small stone
was held in the right hand, and with it the garment was pounded again and
again. I saw nothing white in the wash, and indeed the colored pieces
looked as though an extra rubbing was needed, even after they had been
pounded and rolled again and again.
Shunem was rather cleaner looking than most of the villages passed
through, and yet there was room for improvement, for great piles of
manure and filth were seen on the main streets, which looked as though
they had been there for ages. Children were perched upon the filth,
sitting there as comfortably as could be imagined. Vermin were thick,
causing much uneasiness to both tourist and Arab. A woman decided to make
money by showing a plump baby which she carried upon her arm. Meekly she
said, “Backsheesh for baba;” and we responded to the request, giving a
few coins, then turning away from her. In a short time after a half-grown
girl presented herself before us with the same plump baby, and with the
same request. No doubt the woman thought showing her baby was paying
business; therefore placed the child in the hands of others to help along
the enterprise. Finally the time came for us to leave Shunem, and real
glad we were to get away.
Nain comes next in our line of travel, and possibly you remember it as
being the place to which Jesus and many of his disciples went. As they
neared the gate of the city a dead man was carried out. He was the only
son of a widow, and no doubt her only support. The Lord was sorry for the
bereaved mother and said, “Weep not.” Jesus touched the bier and told the
young man to arise. “And he that was dead sat up, and began to speak; and
he delivered him to his mother.” The city of Nain was once prosperous,
but now only a few miserable houses are to be seen.
It was getting on toward sundown as we rode up a steep hill, and when
the top was reached the city of Nazareth was in full view. Every one
of the party seemed anxious to reach camp, and the horses were urged
to a faster pace. During the day some of the party had unpleasant
experiences. A German lady who rode well was thrown from her horse, and
striking a stone, bruised her face. Another lady was riding along rather
unconcerned, when her horse decided to rest himself. Forthwith he got
down in a great mud puddle, while the lady was still seated upon his
back. Indeed, scarcely a day passed but some one of the party had a fall;
but I am glad to say that husband and I kept upon the horses’ backs, and
our horses kept upon their feet all the way. So we never had a fall.
[Illustration]
CHAPTER XI.
_Riding into Nazareth.—Virgin’s Fountain.—Tricky Horses.—Cana of
Galilee.—Tiberias.—Story of Jesus and his Disciples.—Boat Ride on
the Sea of Galilee.—Capernaum.—Mounting Horses.—Disappearance of the
Dragoman.—A Serious Accident.—Lake Huleh.—Cesarea Philippi.—Mount
Hermon.—Crossing the River Pharpar.—Damascus.—Via Recta.—Bible
References to Courts.—Cup of Coffee.—Water Seller._
With the dragoman heading the company we rode into Nazareth single file
just as the sun went down. He seemed delighted to be leader of such a
large party of tourists, and as we marched along the people looked amazed
at the turnout. Our stay at this place was longer than at any of the
preceding places, for reaching there Saturday evening gave us Sunday as
an extra day of rest, as on that day no traveling was done.
Our tents were pitched near the “Virgin’s Fountain,” which is considered
one of the holy places of the city, because it is thought that Mary,
the mother of Jesus, was in the habit of going there for water. We took
pleasure in watching the women fill their large jars, which held perhaps
three gallons of water. Mothers with tiny babies upon their arms went to
the fountain, and young, laughing girls mingled with the crowd. Some of
them were in a hurry, while many stopped long enough to have a pleasant
chat and tell a bit of news. One would naturally suppose a jar holding
three gallons of water would be a heavy burden to carry; but the women
helped each other place them upon the head, after which the individual
walked off unconcerned, seemingly not having a fear as to the vessel
tumbling off. The bearing of water seemed to be one of the burdens placed
upon the women of that country, and they bore it cheerfully. Not a man
was to be seen carrying the smallest vessel. It was the custom for women
to carry water in Abraham’s time, for we read that when a servant was
sent to seek a wife for Isaac, and a certain city was reached, “he made
his camels to kneel down without the city by a well of water at the time
of the evening, even the time that women go out to draw water.”
The Sabbath Day Was not spent resting in our tents, for we had too
strong a desire to see something of the “city of Jesus.” No doubt you
remember that Mary and Joseph had their home in Nazareth before going
up to Bethlehem to be taxed; but the Nazareth of Joseph and Mary’s
time is not the Nazareth we looked upon, for since then battles have
been fought there, and the city destroyed several times. It has been
rebuilt, however, and each time the original site was used. The natives
were bright-faced and rather neatly dressed, and the contrast between
this city and others was great. We were not surprised to learn that
Protestantism had a hold there, and that solved the mystery.
Nazareth is built on the side of a hill and presented quite a beautiful
appearance. Upon one of the hills which surround the city is an
orphanage school for girls, which, we learned, was under the care of a
self-sacrificing woman. Early in life she left parents, home and friends,
went to Nazareth and took charge of the little girls who lived there,
teaching them the way to Christ. At first it may have seemed a thankless
task, but to-day it is plainly seen that her labors were not in vain. An
English society supplied her with funds. All money given for the support
of such institutions in a foreign land is well spent.
There is a Protestant church in Nazareth, and we attended services there.
Two ministers of the Church of England conducted the services, and the
story of the Shunammite woman was read to us. The preachers belonged to
our party; the congregation was made up mostly of tourists, and a small
company it was.
The first thirty years of Jesus’ life were spent in Nazareth; but “he did
not many mighty works there, because of their unbelief.” Jesus talked
very plainly to the people, and they were filled with wrath and “rose up
and thrust him out of the city, and led him unto the brow of the hill
whereon their city was built, that they might cast him down headlong.
But he, passing through the midst of them, went his way.” The mount of
precipitation is shown the traveler, and we tried to imagine how the
people appeared when Christ deliberately walked away from them.
We spent a restful day at Nazareth, which helped us to bear the journey
of the following week. Our hearts were filled with gratitude to the Lord,
and on bended knees we thanked him for the great privilege of being
permitted to see the city of the meek and lowly Nazarene.
One hundred and seventy-two miles had been traveled from the time we
mounted our horses at Jerusalem up to the time Nazareth was reached,
and every mile of the way was traveled on horseback. It is hard to tell
how much suffering many of the poor horses endured, for the condition
of their backs was distressing. Only two out of the eighteen were in
good condition, and we two rode them. Some of the saddles fitted the
horses’ backs poorly, and that caused the skin to rub off, which created
a large sore place. When the hostlers removed the saddles in the evening
our sympathies were aroused, for never before had we seen anything to
equal the raw state of those horses’ backs. The men did not fancy having
spectators, and their faces indicated their displeasure; but we looked
anyway, and left when it suited us. The Arabs may have neglected to
give the animals proper care and attention, thus helping the sore to
grow larger and more inflamed. If the men had been less idle and more
attentive probably the faithful animals would have been in better trim
for traveling. Some of the horses were a little tricky, for they had a
habit of rolling. No matter whether on a smooth road or in a mud puddle,
when the desire to roll came to them down they went, and the patience of
the ladies was sorely tried, for they were sure to be upon the animals’
backs. The riders never thought it a funny thing for them to do, but
those who looked on naturally smiled.
Sunday’s rest at Nazareth was quite a benefit to us, and Monday morning
we were up early, ready for the onward march.
As we rode out of camp, the Virgin’s Fountain was again passed, and once
more we saw the water carriers busy. Bidding adieu to Nazareth we rode up
a steep hill, and looking back saw the white houses as they stood in the
bright sunlight. The last look was taken, and we passed over the brow of
the hill, feeling sure that the city of Jesus would be seen no more by us.
Kefr Kenna is a small village through which we passed, and where a short
stop was made. For centuries it was thought to be Cana of Galilee, where,
in the time of Christ, there was a marriage. You remember that Jesus,
his mother and the disciples were there. “And when they wanted wine, the
mother of Jesus saith unto him, They have no wine.” Well, Jesus didn’t
seem quite ready to perform a miracle when his mother spoke to him, and
his reply was, “Mine hour is not yet come.” But no doubt the mother
felt his hour had come, so she told the servants to do whatever Jesus
instructed them to do. “Then Jesus saith unto them, Fill the water pots
with water. And they filled them up to the brim.” When the order to draw
out the water was given, lo, there was wine, and the governor drank of
it, speaking words of praise, for it was even better than the first which
had been passed; so at this place Jesus began to perform miracles.
Two immense stone jars were shown us, said to be the very jars our Savior
used at that marriage; but we do not vouch for the truth of the statement.
There was very little to interest us in Cana, therefore our stay was
short, and we rode on toward Tiberias, reaching there in time to eat our
noonday meal.
Tiberias is by the Sea of Galilee and was once the capital of Galilee;
but, like other cities of Bible times, it had been destroyed. Not very
many years ago the present city was partly destroyed by an earthquake,
and the walls tell the story. There are hot springs at Tiberias, and it
is said the water is too hot for immediate use. Many people who have
rheumatism go there to bathe and be cured if possible. It is said the
bath houses are filthy and abound in vermin; and, from what we saw of our
boatmen, we concluded the private houses must be in as bad a condition as
the bath houses.
The Sea of Galilee has another name which is, Lake of Gennesaret. On the
shores of this body of water Jesus stood when the people pressed upon
him, eager to hear the Word of God. And in our mind we saw the two empty
ships at the time the crowd was so great Jesus decided to go aboard one
of them, and asked Simon to push the boat from land. “And he sat down and
taught the people out of the ship.”
Fish are abundant in the lake now, just as they were in the time of
Christ; for you remember Jesus said to Simon, “Launch out into the deep,
and let down your nets for a draught.” Simon had been out all night
fishing, and had worked hard, but not a fish did he catch; and he felt
there was poor pay in throwing out the nets again. So, after telling
the Master of his ill luck, he said, “Nevertheless at thy word I will
let down the net.” And the result was “a great multitude of fishes.”
Then there was an accident, the net broke. “And they beckoned unto their
partners, which were in the other ship, that they should come and help
them. And they came and filled both the ships, so that they began to
sink.” The men were surprised to see so many fish, and were dreadfully
alarmed, too, lest all should be lost; but “Jesus said unto Simon, Fear
not; from henceforth thou shalt catch men.”
The lake was liable to sudden storms, and not a ripple could be seen when
boatmen started out from the shore; but soon the wind came down over the
hills, and in a little while the water would be wonderfully disturbed.
Just such a thing happened when Jesus asked his disciples to get in a
boat and go before him to the other side of the sea. After the disciples
left him “he departed into a mountain to pray.” It was evening. Jesus
was alone on land and the disciples were in their boats toiling away at
the oars; “and about the fourth watch of the night he cometh unto them,
walking upon the sea, and would have passed by them.” Oh, how frightened
all were, for they imagined the object to be a spirit, and it troubled
them. But “immediately he talked with them, and saith unto them, Be
of good cheer: it is I; be not afraid. And he went up unto them into
the ship; and the wind ceased: and they were sore amazed in themselves
beyond measure, and wondered.” Then Peter thought he would like to try
walking on the water, too. “But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was
afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me!” Poor
Peter had not faith enough to carry him through when the waves rolled
around him; but “Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and
said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?” Can
you not imagine Christ standing with outstretched hands on the turbulent
waters of Galilee? Then think of Peter on the verge of sinking. To-day
Jesus stands ready to save all who call upon him.
Travelers usually have a strong desire to take a boat ride on the Sea
of Galilee, and our company were as anxious as any who ever visited its
shores. Arrangements were therefore made for a ride from Tiberias to
Capernaum. Two boats, with the boatmen, were procured, and they were
large enough to hold the party and rowers very nicely.
The men were strong, able-bodied fellows, and you will think so, too,
when I tell you that each passenger was carried to the boats by them. You
see, two of the boatmen put their hands together in such a manner as to
form a seat, and we sat upon their hands as comfortably as you please,
and kept from falling off by placing our arms about their necks. The
water was not deep enough to reach our feet, so we got along very well.
You may imagine the sight to have been amusing, for over half of the
number weighed one hundred and seventy-five pounds apiece, and one old
man almost tipped the scales at three hundred. The boatmen, no doubt,
were anxious to place such burdens in the boat. The strong odor of fish
was rather unpleasant, and it seemed best to close the eyes and thereby
shut away the filthy condition of boat and men. The day was beautiful and
the lake very smooth. The wind sometimes comes down over the hills, and
as of old the result is a restless, uneasy sea. We were glad the water
was not troubled that day.
The sun shone very hot, and when it struck the water its rays caused
our eyes to smart. At the end of three hours Tell Hum was before us.
After landing we walked up a hill through a rank growth of weeds higher
than our heads, and there looked upon what is thought to be Capernaum,
one of the chief cities of Palestine in Christ’s time, where much of
his time was spent in healing the sick and teaching the people. Jesus
upbraided many cities for their neglect of duty, and Capernaum was among
the number. Now read his warning words, “And thou, Capernaum, which art
exalted unto heaven, shalt be brought down to hell: for if the mighty
works, which have been done in thee, had been done in Sodom, it would
have remained until this day. But I say unto you, That it shall be more
tolerable for the land of Sodom in the day of judgment, than for thee.”
The prophecy was fulfilled and all houses and churches were leveled to
the ground. The hot sun shining upon the rank growth of weeds proved
to be extremely disagreeable to us, therefore we shortened our stay.
Entering the boats again, we were rowed to camp.
The tents were pitched near Magdala, about three miles from Tiberias,
and our stopping place that night was only a few feet from the water,
a beautiful looking place, but an extremely damp one. The gentlemen of
the party took a good bath in the Sea of Galilee and pronounced it quite
refreshing; the ladies were denied that privilege, for bathing dresses
were too far away; so we missed that pleasure.
We retired rather late that night, but were quite willing to arise early
the next morning, and by seven o’clock were in the saddle. Horseback
riding was not so fatiguing now, and there really seemed to be a little
pleasure in traveling over hill and plain.
I have told you about riding horseback, but you may not know how we
mounted our horses. If plenty of rocks were to be found at the different
stopping places mounting a horse was not so very hard; but many times the
rocks were so small it would have taken hours and hours to throw them
together to make a pile large enough for us to stand upon. No chairs, no
rocks to stand on; then how did we mount? Well, the dragoman held out
his hand and we put our foot upon it; then, after having placed one of
our hands upon the horn of the saddle, we prepared to jump. Mr. Heilpin
always said, “Ready? Now, one, two, three;” and by the time he had said
three we were usually up in the saddle. But sometimes “three” was said,
when no attempt had been made to jump; then one, two, three was repeated.
Often our calculations and his counting failed to come out right; for
we had forgotten to spring. Mounting the horses was real amusing, but
awfully trying. Practice makes perfect, it has been said, and after a
few lessons every one of the women was more active, and we mounted in a
hurry.
While riding along one day we all lost sight of our dragoman, and it
seemed quite strange to be without him. Yosef undertook to be our pilot,
but as he became confused we concluded he answered the purpose but
poorly; and the outlook to gain camp seemed rather uncertain. One of the
party rode ahead and called out, “I’ll take you through; follow me.” We
decided it was too much like the blind leading the blind, but just at
that time the dragoman put in an appearance and we followed him. After
riding a long distance a good resting place was found near a beautiful
fountain. Each person used his own pleasure as to how the time should be
spent. Some wrote letters and others took a nap. My time was spent in
admiring the surroundings and reading a little. Every one seemed to enjoy
the rest immensely, and when the call to leave was given we were loath to
quit the spot.
Serious accidents sometimes happen to tourists, and I shall have to tell
you of one which happened to one of our number. Just before the second
call was given one of the ladies desired a switch, and as she stepped
down to the place where they could be found her knee twisted and the bone
snapped. Being near enough to hear it, I immediately went to her asking
the question, “Are you hurt?” and the reply was, “Call the doctors;”
which I did; and when the examination was made a serious break was
announced. The doctors belonged to our party, but their medicines and
instruments were at home. Servants were sent to camp in a gallop for
bedstead, mattress and a board. The gentlemen made splints and gave their
large white silk handkerchiefs for bandages. The bone was set and six men
carried her to camp, and it was nine o’clock by the time we reached there.
The lady was of a very cheerful disposition, and therefore bore this
misfortune uncomplainingly. I shall never forget that time, as a great
gloom was cast over the company, and it seemed as though death had come
into our midst.
Our camping place for that night was Ein-Baluka, and it seemed to be in
the neighborhood of Bedouin Arabs, which fact was not pleasant to think
of; but we got along all right and the watchful eye of the Lord was over
us there, as well as at every other camping place. There was no other
way for the lady to travel but by horseback, so a mattress was fastened
upon the animal’s back and Miss W. placed upon it, being tied there with
sheets.
It looked very odd to see her riding backward, but there was no other
way, for the broken limb had to be kept perfectly straight, as the least
bit of a bend made it very painful. Her horse did not go out of a walk,
yet there was a motion which caused the limb to roll. It was necessary to
remedy that before going very far, and the lady said laughingly, “I’ll
fix something to hold it still,” and forthwith a shawl-strap was brought
forth. One end was placed about the afflicted limb, and the other end
of the strap was held in her hand. That proved to be just the thing and
saved much pain, because the foot was kept in its place.
Four days she was carried over the rough roads, crossing over Mount
Hermon and the river Pharpar. A watchful eye was kept over the patient
sufferer all of the way, and Arab men walked by her side to help when
needed. In our line of march the company was headed by the dragoman, then
Miss W. and the rest of us coming after, all riding single file.
One day a great marshy place was crossed, and as misfortunes don’t come
singly, it happened that Miss W.’s horse had to stick in the mud. Some
of the gentlemen, with the help of an Arab, lifted the cripple from the
horse and placed her upon the ground; after which the servants worked
faithfully to extricate the animal. Considerable time was lost, but
finally he was set free and we once more moved on.
Often such accidents happen when horses and donkeys are disabled; and as
the owners of them can not take the animals over the mountain or remain
to feed them the poor things must be left to suffer and finally die of
starvation. My heart was made to ache for the animals which we saw by the
roadside, unable to walk and left to die.
There were no more mishaps after this, and the crippled member was never
heard to utter a complaint, and was the most cheerful one of the party.
She was aware of the fact that the fracture would leave its results for
life, but notwithstanding she was cheerful. If the lady could speak to
you she would tell you her trust was in the One who watches over all of
his children, for Miss W. was a Christian. When at home this lady was a
diligent worker in the Sunday school, and all along the journey she paid
great attention to the noted Bible places, for, said she, “I shall tell
it all to my class when I get home.”
Children, did you ever think how much hard work your Sunday-school
teachers do, that they may be able to show you the way to Christ? They
are concerned about your soul’s salvation, and many, many hours are
anxiously spent in thinking and studying the best plan to present the
Word of God to you Sunday after Sunday. Oh do not pass the truths by
thoughtlessly, for remember that your reward in the end will be meted out
according to the opportunity you had of learning the right.
We are getting on toward the end of our journey, and this time we find
the tents pitched at Lake Huleh, better known, perhaps, as the “Waters of
Merom.”
During the day Bedouin Arab camps were passed, and we saw their tents,
which were made of goats’ hair closely woven together, making them
water-tight. Plenty of fish are found in the waters of Lake Huleh, and
Bedouin Arabs go there to fish and hunt. These people are of a roving
nature, therefore remain but a short time at one place. Their families
go with them, of course, and that means the donkeys, camels, sheep and
goats. As long as pasture is green, they stay at one place, only moving
when pasture becomes scarce.
I wonder how many of you ever saw a buffalo. Well, we saw a few of them
on the low ground at the head of the lake. They were very small compared
with those of the western plains of this country; they seemed to be
gentle and were not disturbed at all by our company passing by.
The next camping place was at the base of Mount Hermon, whose top was
capped with snow. Not far from the tents springs of water gushed out from
beneath the rocks. Just beyond the springs was a large cave, where people
went to worship a god called “Pan.”
The country through which we traveled that day was beautiful. Plenty
of green grass was to be seen, and olive groves were all around us. We
crossed an old Roman bridge, and found our canvas homes in an olive grove
which had a stream of clear mountain water flowing through it.
The situation of Banias was beautiful on the side of the mountain, with
ravines and sparkling streams of water about it. Only a few houses were
in the village, and not much of interest was to be seen there; but
wherever we went while passing through Palestine Jesus and his disciples
were brought plainly to our minds, and is it any wonder that our faith in
the Bible grew stronger? I think not.
Banias, or Cesarea Philippi, is thought to be the scene of Christ’s
transfiguration, the place where his outward form was changed; for we
read of his face shining as the sun and of his raiment being white as the
light. Christ’s presence was felt in Cesarea Philippi, for we read again
that when he came into the coasts he asked his disciples these questions:
“Whom do men say that I, the Son of man, am?” When they answered him, “he
saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? And Simon Peter answered and
said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.” No human being
had made such a revelation to Simon Peter, but the “Father which is in
heaven.”
On the top of a hill near our camping place were seen the ruins of an
old castle. Some of the party, accompanied by a guide, went up the hill
to see them, and those of us who were left behind went to our tents and
spent that time resting.
The men did not reach camp till late in the evening, and some of us
feared an accident had happened, or the pathway to camp had been lost;
but mealtime brought every one around the board, happy and in good
spirits.
Bedtime came later that night than usual because of the delay, so we were
the losers, for next morning we were not allowed to sleep any later than
usual.
At this point our journey in Palestine ends, and now we enter Syria.
From Cesarea Philippi we rode up the side of Mount Hermon, said to be
the highest mountain in Syria. On the top of it snow and ice are found
the year round. In Bible times this mountain was sometimes called Sion,
also Serion. It has several peaks, and upon one of them are to be found
the ruins of a temple supposed to have been erected there years and
years ago for the worship of Baal. Now Baal was an idol; so temples and
altars erected for the worship of that god were usually built upon high
places. We read that Josiah beat down the altars which had been erected
“on top of the upper chambers of Ahaz.” The Israelites were instructed
to “utterly destroy all the places wherein the nations which ye shall
possess served their gods, upon the high mountains, and upon the hills.”
The worship of Baal in those times was so great that human beings—sons of
families—were offered as burnt offerings to him. No wonder instructions
were given to “utterly destroy all the places.”
We did not ride to the top of Mount Hermon, because it was not necessary;
but a ridge to the right of it was crossed, and we found the way steep
and wonderfully rough. Never before had we gone over such roads, and
there was considerable danger connected with the trip. The Lord took care
of us, as usual, and we came out all right.
Lunch was eaten that day near a Druse village. They are a people who
greatly detest Christians, so we were very careful not to give occasion
for offense. Our stop there was not any more agreeable to us than it
seemed to be to them, so we were quite willing to ride on as soon as
possible after luncheon.
In the afternoon we crossed the swiftly flowing river Pharpar. A number
of Arab men, who were almost naked, led our horses through the rushing,
dashing water, and it took but a little while for us to find that each
man knew his business well. The water was quite deep, almost up to our
feet, and the current was so swift it seemed the horses would surely go
down stream instead of right across. We realized how necessary it was
to have our horses led by men who not only knew the fording place, but
who were strong and able to manage horses when in water. Those Arabs
assisted both men and women to cross over, and indeed not any one of the
party could have crossed without help.
That night our camping place was close to the river and very near to
a mountain village. We were now well on our way to Damascus. We found
the road long and the ride extremely wearisome, with nothing special to
attract our attention.
When the caravan road leading from Damascus to Egypt was gained, we were
reminded of Saul and what befell him on his way to the same city. You
remember how cruelly he had been acting, how he had put Christian men
and women in prison, and then how he stood by and saw Stephen stoned?
Well, the Lord knew how to stop Saul in his cruel work, for before the
city was gained, and somewhere on the road I’ve been telling you about,
we read that “suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven:
and he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul,
why persecutest thou me?” And then for three days this man was blind, and
those who were with him led him to the city. Instead of persecuting the
Christians, as heretofore, Saul preached Christ; after which his life was
in peril, for the Jews decided to kill him.
The exact spot where this great man was stricken down is not known, but
we do know he journeyed on the road which led to Damascus.
A large caravan of camels, on the way to Egypt, stopped to rest and feed
close to where we were lunching. Such sights were quite common to us, and
but little attention was paid to them. They journeyed on toward Egypt,
and we moved on toward Damascus. When within a few miles of the city we
halted, and camped there for the night.
The next morning every one in the party was anxious to leave camp early,
but the dragoman seemed unusually anxious to take his time; so we were
compelled to exercise patience. In very good time, however, we started
on the way, and after getting a short distance from camp a view of the
old city burst suddenly upon us. There were the domes and minarets
pointing heavenward; and as we drew nearer and nearer to the city the
groves, gardens and winding streams were seen. Truly the sight was a very
beautiful one, and no doubt the ride across the desert plains helped us
to enjoy the scene to its fullest extent. The dragoman was anxious to
make as good an appearance going into the city as possible, so he rode
on before and we all followed after. Finally the hotel was reached, and
with joy each one dismounted, giving the horses over to the care of the
men who were there waiting. That night we slept under a roof instead of
under canvas, and it was the first time since leaving Jerusalem. I am not
sure we slept any more soundly there than in our tents, but there was
such a satisfaction in knowing that the roof which covered us was more
than canvas, and that thieves could enter only at the door. For a night
or two our shoes were left upon the floor instead of being placed under
the pillow, and how pleasant it was to know the baggage was safe without
being tied to the bedstead!
Perhaps you wonder what became of the afflicted one of the party. Well,
she was taken right along with us to Damascus, and when it came time for
us to leave the city both she and her friend remained behind, while we
journeyed on and on.
There was great pleasure in being in comfortable, home-like quarters,
and the drawing room was quite a lively place for a while. Our clothes
looked the worse for wear, and they were exchanged for those which were
not soiled and travel-stained. It was surprising to see what a change had
been brought about in the appearance of each one, not only in dress but
in looks, for everybody seemed bright and cheerful.
Miss W. was compelled to eat all of her meals in her own room, since she
was unable to go from place to place. We did not forget the invalid, or
neglect her either, and at such times as were convenient we gathered in
her room. At the expiration of three days we journeyed on through Syria
toward the seaport town of Beyrut, each night camping by the way.
Damascus is said to be the oldest city of the world. Way back in
Abraham’s time mention was made of it as being the home of Eliezer, his
steward. A number of times Damascus is spoken of in the Bible, and we
believe it was as flourishing a city then as it is these years.
The rivers Pharpar and Abana supply Damascus with water, and great canals
convey it far and wide over the surrounding country. No doubt you have
read about these two rivers in connection with the Bible story of Naaman
the leper. He knew the rivers were beautifully clear, and his preference
was to wash in them rather than in the water the prophet directed him to
wash in for the cleansing of the leprosy.
There is a street in Damascus which is called Via Recta. It runs from the
east to the west gate. We were told it was “the street called Straight.”
In Bible times the Lord directed Ananias in a vision to go into that
street and make inquiry for Saul of Tarsus. Ananias was timid about
going; Saul’s reputation was not good, for it was known far and wide how
he had been treating all who called upon the name of the Lord. But the
timid feelings were cast aside and the desire of the Lord followed out.
Saul was found and the message was delivered, and after Saul’s sight had
been restored he “arose and was baptized.” After his conversion Saul
“preached Christ in the synagogues.” The Jews opposed him and watched day
and night to take his life; “but Saul increased the more in strength,
and confounded the Jews which dwelt at Damascus, proving that this is
very Christ.” When the danger of being killed was greatest, “then the
disciples took him by night, and let him down by the wall in a basket,”
and by that means Saul’s life was spared a while longer to preach boldly
for Jesus.
A window was shown us, said to be the window from which Saul was let
down on that memorable night. The houses of Ananias and Naaman were also
shown, but we shall never know whether they were really the houses in
which those Bible characters lived. Naaman’s house had been turned into
a hospital, and we hope many sufferers have been made well inside of its
walls.
There were no beautiful residences to admire while passing along, and you
can scarcely imagine how strange it seemed to look at high blank walls.
In the far East houses are built with a court—an enclosed space—and on
all sides of it are doors which lead into different rooms. Our hotel had
an upper story, and the stairway which led to it opened on one corner of
the court.
Every one going into a house must first pass through a gate in the high
wall. There are a great many references in the Bible to the courts of
houses, and you know king Ahasuerus made a feast in a court. It was
customary for the door of a court to be locked, and consequently a
servant attended to the opening of it. You remember when Peter was placed
in prison by Herod and guarded by four soldiers he was released from his
chains and set at liberty by the angel of the Lord? Well, Peter came
“to the house of Mary the mother of John, whose surname was Mark,” and
“knocked at the door of the gate, and a damsel came to hearken.” These
instances show that the custom of having houses with courts to-day is the
custom of centuries ago.
The bazaars of Damascus are very highly spoken of all over the world, and
every traveler is anxious to visit them soon after reaching the city. We
found the bazaars to be shops like open stalls, in avenues roofed over.
When a customer purchases goods he walks up to the stall and is waited
upon by the merchant, who is usually sitting down cross-legged. The
purchaser stands on the street, which is very narrow, and the throng of
buyers and wayfarers have a good chance to jostle him about unpleasantly.
Merchants make much ado in selling their goods, for they talk furiously.
To me it seemed a fight was brewing; but by and by the sale was completed
and quiet reigned until another purchaser happened along. We wanted to
purchase a few silk handkerchiefs, and before an attempt at a sale was
made we were furnished with a cup of coffee each; after which an effort
was made to sell the articles. Sales are not always made, for the buyer
is not always pleased with the goods.
You may wonder how large the cups were, so I’ll just tell you they held
perhaps two tablespoonfuls of coffee ready to drink. That may seem
like a very little bit, but it was quite enough, for we had to get rid
of grounds too. In that country coffee is pounded in a mortar, making
the grain as fine as powder. After having been boiled the mixture is
sweetened, and then you get rid of it as best you can. A very strange
custom you will think, but in time one becomes used to it.
While walking along we noticed some of the bazaars were without salesmen,
and upon inquiry found the men had gone to the mosque for prayers. No
matter when the hour of prayer came, business was cast aside, and away
they went. Could not many Christians learn a lesson from the Mohammedans
to-day? Surely they could.
[Illustration: _Water Seller._]
The rattle of wagons is not heard in those roofed streets, but donkeys
and camels quietly make their way through the crowd, not caring whether a
person is stepped upon or not.
A missionary to the Jews, from London, England, made the acquaintance
of our party, and through his kindness we were permitted to visit some
of the best private houses in the city. Space will not allow me to tell
you what was seen there, but before leaving the city of Damascus I want
to tell you about the man who is in the picture. He is a water seller
who goes along the streets selling water to those who desire a drink. Do
you see the cup in his outstretched hand? And there upon his back is the
leather bottle which holds the water. When walking along he calls out
in loud tones, “Let him that is athirst come and drink;” and then comes
a great noise from the knocking together of the tin cups. I do not know
whether the man sells much water or not, for we did not stand still long
enough for us to watch him.
Many years ago a great many Christians lived in Damascus, but the Moslems
burned a portion of the city in which they lived, and thousands were put
to death. The Christian population is now on the increase, and there is
safety on the streets of Damascus for all Christian people. Missionaries
have worked faithfully, scattering the good seed there. May the old and
young alike pray the Lord to bless all efforts for good; and, little
children, may the Lord help you all to get the missionary spirit, so that
some day you may go forth and battle for the right.
CHAPTER XII.
_Farewell to Damascus.—Ain Fijeh.—Quarrelsome Arabs.—Onward
to Baalbek.—A Friendly Arab Family.—On the Mountains of
Lebanon.—Baalbek.—Rejected Stone.—From Baalbek to Beyrut.—My Horse
John.—Homeward Bound._
Adieu was said to Damascus with its mosques, bazaars, orchards and
winding streams. We left it never expecting to look again upon the city
which the natives call “paradise on earth.”
The day was delightful, and the scenery along the greater part of the way
was quite different from that which we had been accustomed to seeing. The
grass was beautifully green, and fruit trees were in splendid condition.
The swift-flowing river was, in a measure, instrumental in clothing the
trees with foliage and giving the grass its beautiful verdure; but behind
all the hand of the Lord was seen.
Noontime came, and we rested not far from a small village called Ain
Fijeh, very close to a fountain with the same name. Many years ago a
temple stood at that place and people went there to worship. Now it is in
ruins, but even yet many Mohammedans go there. While we stood by looking
at them, they bowed down on their faces, saying aloud their studied
prayers. A great body of water gushed out of a cave near by. It went
dashing and splashing along a few yards, then joined a small branch,
when the two made one river.
Did you ever watch a great volume of water as it dashed over everything
which happened in its way? If you did, then you can imagine how much
interested we grown up men and women were at the sight before us. That
was a charming spot for travelers to tarry for the noonday rest, and yet
the very name of Ain Fijeh brings thoughts exceedingly unpleasant.
Our luncheon was eaten in a field of beautiful green,—a cornfield. The
dragoman hired a corner of it from the owner expressly for our use. It
seemed hardly right to use a grain field in that way, but there was no
other place for so large a party, and since arrangements had been made
we settled down to enjoy the rest which was needed. The villagers seemed
very much interested in us, more so than common, and during the entire
meal watched us very closely. There was a wonderful chattering among
them, and there seemed decided indications of displeasure; but since we
were unable to understand their language we were entirely ignorant as to
what irritated them.
The meal was eaten with a relish, notwithstanding the scowling faces
which were looking on. The usual length of time was taken for rest; the
dragoman awakened from his nap and gave the order to start. Soon after
each person went where the horses were waiting, which place was at the
foot of a very steep hill, where the ladies found rocks large enough to
mount the horses from. Since the dragoman was not needed he remained
back—as we supposed—to pay for the use of the field. After having
arranged ourselves ready for the onward march, we waited for our guide to
come and lead us on through the unknown country. Instead of going with
us, as had been his custom, he called in loud tones, “Ride on and follow
the road.” There were sixteen of us now, and one just as ignorant as the
other of the language and country. We did not fancy starting out alone,
but the order was given and we obeyed, riding fast or slow just as it
suited us.
A change in the road seemed confusing, and we all decided to go no
farther without a guide. The summit of the hill was reached by that time,
and you can scarcely imagine our surprise, on looking back, to see the
dragoman completely surrounded by the villagers. He was unable to turn
from right to left. Truly, like sheep without a shepherd were we.
Now, what was to be done,—stand still and wait? Yes, it was all we were
able to do, for we knew not where to go. By this time we noticed the
villagers were wild with excitement. Men and women ran up the hill with
clubs and pickaxes raised in the air; children came running too, each
armed with stones. Every one of them seemed determined to hurt us, if
possible. Their voices were pitched high, and such a furious set of
people I had never seen before. We were a scared set of tourists. To add
to our dismay, stones were hurled in our midst. Many of them hit the poor
horses, my own faithful animal being among the number. I shall never
forget how suddenly he turned and what a narrow escape I had from going
headlong over the side of the hill. I begged to be taken from my horse,
but was not allowed to be upon my feet for fear of being in greater
danger.
That was a very distressing time for us, boys and girls, for we did not
expect to escape without injury. The dear Lord was good, for his watchful
eye was over us and every one quit the place unharmed. My nervous system
received a severe shock, which it has taken all of these years to recover
from. The Arabs did not release the dragoman until he paid them a large
sum of money, and at the end of our journey each one of the party was
requested to pay a certain sum of money extra to help pay for the release
of our guide.
Ain Fijeh had lost all attractions for us, and as soon as possible we
rode away, leaving its disagreeable inhabitants behind, hoping never to
be in such an unpleasant situation again. It was the first day of April.
Had we been in America, we would have thought the people were having a
little fun at our expense; but not so there, for money was what they
desired, and money they received before we were allowed to go free.
As we proceeded on our way to camp great ledges of rocks were passed
over. Sometimes we rode through green fields, when our mind was carried
back to the lunching place and the yelling villagers. My memory of the
country through which we passed is not vivid, for my mind and feelings
then were not in trim to enjoy either the country or a ride through it.
The camping place for that night is spoken of as being fine, but I cannot
testify as to its beauty. One thing I am sure of,—that our rest during
that night was much disturbed by thoughts of the day’s experience.
We left camp early next morning, and to our sorrow the rain came down in
torrents. Oh, how unpleasant it was! We had no desire to visit the tomb
of Abel, which we passed. We rode on, preferring to visit a place of
shelter and stay there while the rain continued to fall. It was useless,
however, to think of that pleasure; so we made the best of the situation,
feeling sure that only a few more days of hard riding and exposure were
in store for us, when our journey through the strange land would be ended.
Bad weather never seemed to bring changes in our programme of travel, so
we bravely weathered the rain which had continued to fall, and onward
we rode toward Baalbek. The air had become uncomfortably chilly, and a
great desire for a sheltered place was created within us. It seemed to
be the order of our trip to have unpleasant things happening, and for
that particular day an accident was recorded; not a serious one, yet an
accident.
We were riding by a swiftly flowing mountain river, when the horse which
an English lady was riding made a misstep and both of them went down into
the water. The animal was unable to help himself and it was therefore
necessary for some of the men to render assistance. In good time both
horse and rider reached land without injury.
Wet clothing was the result of that accident, and now for certain a
good, warm fire was needed. Many of us could sympathize with the lady,
for we were in the same condition, although our clothing became wet
from the rain and hers from the river; therefore we knew, to our sorrow,
how uncomfortable she was. Not any of the company had much to say while
riding along, but we kept up a wonderful thinking.
Our first stopping place after the accident was in a small village where
the people were unusually friendly. We were invited into their homes and
we gladly accepted the kind invitation. Dripping wet we rode through the
little entrance-gate into the court, and while the rain was pouring down
upon us we dismounted, only too thankful to be under roof, where, for a
short season at least, the rain would cease to beat upon us. Our joy was
great when a fire was started in the fireplace in one corner of a room.
I can see that room yet—in my mind’s eye—cheerless and unattractive, not
a window was to be seen, and in the wall were hollow places where the
family slept at night. But the shelter and the fire we wanted, and that
we had, caring but little for the dirt and the cheerless home.
The ladies seemed to think the room was all their own, for immediately
they took possession of it, each one getting as close to the fire as
possible, all intent on drying their soaking wet garments. The native
women were very much interested in our clothing, examining each piece
with a great deal of pleasure. They had a strong desire to converse with
us, but there was entirely too much difference in our language, for not
one of us could speak Arabic. They jabbered away at us, and we stood
smiling like a lot of schoolgirls.
One old woman couldn’t stand it to be near and not converse, so she went
after the dragoman, brought him in and used him as an interpreter. The
conversation was laughable, but not of long duration, for it was time to
leave there and ride on.
The men sat in a room adjoining ours, and I believe it was much dirtier;
but we were quite well used to filth by that time, so it failed to be a
rarity.
Other travelers were resting in the same house, and in the court could be
seen horses, donkeys and camels. It was quite amusing to watch a clumsy
camel get through the small entrance gate to the court. It was first
compelled to get down upon its knees to have the burden removed, after
which some manœuvering was necessary to get the animal inside, for the
large hump was very much in the way. The stupid animal entered by and by,
and we saw it no more, for by that time we rode away from the house of
the kind Arab people.
We had traveled twenty-five miles during the day, wet to the skin and
chilled to the bone. Late in the evening we reached camp, with a longing
desire for a good, warm fire. Money could not purchase such a luxury
there, so we were compelled to be reconciled to the surroundings.
We seemed to be unfortunate that night, for during the day some of the
pack-mules had fallen into the water; so the tents and bedding were wet
through and through. Our tent and some bedclothes were among the wet
ones, and I’ll tell you, children, our comfort for that night did not
seem very flattering. It was very hard work to have cheerful faces, and
it was a great deal harder to keep from wishing we were at home, where
there was no end of comfort. We crept into our little beds, shivering,
hoping to be warm at least by morning.
All night long the rain came down fast, and about midnight the side of
our tent blew in, making the situation more unpleasant. We called the
dragoman, telling him of our perplexing condition, and he in turn called
up the poor, shivering Arab servants, who pounded the tent pins down more
tightly; after which quiet reigned and an effort was made to sleep. We
were on the Mountains of Lebanon and the air was cold, so we expected to
shiver as did the Arab men.
The next morning early we started for Baalbek, notwithstanding the rain
storm which was still in progress. We mounted our horses in a tent that
morning. The horses seemed wonderfully large standing there waiting for
the riders. The saddles were dripping wet, and of course the poor animals
were in like condition. That morning the dragoman’s counts and my leap
did not come out even, for when he said, “Now ready,” I had not reached
the back of my faithful friend. But with patience on the part of the
guide, and quite an effort on my part, the sitting place was gained and
we rode on out in the rain.
As we journeyed along snow commenced falling, and we wondered what next.
Such a discouraged set of tourists you never saw, I know. We were ill
prepared for winter weather, and the Australian lady who had never seen
snow was getting all she desired of it. Her wraps were quite thin, and,
like myself, she shivered as we went along.
My hands were not as well protected as they might have been had we
thought of snow. As it was I wore a thin pair of knit mittens which were
wet during the entire ride of sixteen miles.
By this time you have learned that people who go long journeys become
tired and are liable to have accidents happen them too. It is plain to be
seen that one must be prepared for anything, and if possible be cheerful
under all circumstances.
The sun did not shine all of the time, and we knew to our sorrow what
it meant to travel when rain was pouring down upon us. On the way to
Baalbek our ride was as unpleasant as could well be imagined. Snow and
rain were our portion many miles. The little flakes fell thick and
fast. Occasionally they found their way to our neck, where they melted,
leaving the water to trickle down our back, making us still more chilly
and uncomfortable. It would weary you if I were to make any further
attempt to tell you of that very unpleasant ride. There was genuine
pleasure however in looking forward to the time when the village should
be gained and we be under the shelter of a roof; and as we rode on and
on it was a satisfaction to know every mile took us nearer and nearer
the resting place. At last the columns of the “Great Temple” were seen
in the distance. Immediately we took fresh courage and urged our horses
to greater speed. By and by the village was gained, and to our delight
the dragoman drew rein and we all dismounted in front of a rough looking
building, bearing the name of “Hotel,” which was to be our home while in
the village of ruined temples. Everything around it seemed gloomy and
cheerless; but we wasted no time in looking at the surroundings, for we
were anxious to go where wet clothing could be removed.
Husband found, to his sorrow, that boots were very good to hold water,
for on placing his feet upon the ground the water overflowed and rushed
out of the top of them; so you may see what a distressed condition he was
in.
When a room was assigned us we were surprised to see it so large and with
such a little bit of furniture in it. The floor was stone and carpetless;
two windows were in the room, but they were curtainless, and there was
no stove in which to make fire. We needed dry clothing badly, but the
baggage had not been brought up, for it was far back on the mountain. Now
what was to be done? Well, each person settled that question for himself.
Some concluded to go to bed and stay there until the baggage was brought
them. We called for a fire; a foolish thing to do when there was no
stove, you may think; but it came to us all right in two iron pans with
coals red hot. Immediately after, each piece of clothing was removed, the
water wrung out, and then it was held piece by piece over the coals to
dry. The task was not an easy one, I assure you, and both of us were kept
busy for a while. We were quite comfortable long before our baggage came,
for the men were four hours behind time.
The sun was not hid under a cloud all of that day, for during the
afternoon it shone beautifully, which brought joy to our hearts. We did
not remain indoors long, for all were anxious to see the great ruins of
Baalbek, which at one time were temples erected for the worship of Baal.
They have been the wonder of all ages, and nowhere in the world can more
extensive ruins be seen. People travel thousands of miles to see them.
The largest cut stones in the world are to be seen in these temples, and
it is a great mystery to know how they were placed there. A quarry from
which they were taken is not very far from the village, and one large
stone is still there, having never been removed by the workmen. The stone
chips lie about and one can scarcely realize the fact that many, many
years have gone by since the chisel and hammer have been used upon it.
I shall not begin to describe the ruined temples, for it might not
interest the greater number of the little readers, and to tell you
about the finely chiseled marble columns would occupy too much
space. The population of Baalbek was not very large, and there was
nothing attractive about the dwelling houses, for they were free from
ornamentation, low, and covered with flat straw roofs. After a hard rain
men go on the housetop with large wooden rollers to press out the water.
If it were allowed to remain in the straw long it would drip down into
the living rooms and be unpleasant for the family.
As a result of the exposure of our trip from Damascus to Baalbek, I was
taken sick with a hard chill and high fever; but with the free use of
medicines the fever was broken and I was enabled to travel on with the
rest of the party. After the ruins of the village were seen there were no
further attractions for tourists. So one bright beautiful morning we left
with everybody in a cheerful mood and very anxious to go on to the next
place, which would end our horseback riding.
We went direct from Baalbek to Beyrut, camping by the way and taking
two days for the journey. All of the party were in good humor and quite
cheerful, as I said before, and even the horses traveled better; so the
good feeling seemed general.
We camped on the mountains and had pure fresh air to breathe. Luncheon
was eaten in a stone khan, and when I look back to that time I can see
sixteen weary travelers sitting on benches against the wall, listening
to the dragoman talk, telling us how much money was due him. We knew he
had no right to demand it, yet for the sake of peace the money was handed
over to him. After a short rest we all moved onward toward a large town
by the name of Zableh. The road was rocky and steep, and the horses’ feet
clattered as they walked up the street, which seemed more like a stairway.
The people seemed friendly, which at first surprised us; but we found
later on that a goodly number of the inhabitants were Christians.
Missionaries were settled in that town, and it was plain to be seen
that where the Bible is taught a kindlier feeling toward mankind is
manifested. Several years ago the town suffered badly from the Druses, a
set of people who live in the Mountains of Lebanon; they set fire to it
and burned it down. Since then the town has been rebuilt and seems in a
prosperous condition.
Our last day’s ride was delightful, and the roads were now good enough
for any one. We passed from the stormy weather of winter into summer
and beautiful sunshine, and how pleasant it seemed! The green grass,
the fruit trees, many of which had fruit upon them, all helped us to
forget the snowstorm of Lebanon and the cheerless country which had been
traveled over only a few days before.
As we neared the city of Beyrut every turn in the road gave us a better
glimpse of the place for which we were aiming. The pleasant little
country residences by the way received but little notice. We were bound
for the place where letters from dear ones at home were awaiting us. The
city was not so far away now, and before we were aware of it our horses
went galloping down the streets,—there at last! Yes, sure enough, for the
horses had stopped and we found ourselves in front of the hotel, and the
twenty-one days of riding ended.
I was greatly attached to my horse, which you will remember I had named
John, and a feeling of sadness filled my heart when the servant led him
away. I looked after the animal and thought how faithfully he had carried
me upon his back, and in the twenty-one days’ ride had not shown a sign
of being tricky. Cautiously he had picked his way over the most dangerous
places, and when rivers were to be forded he walked into the water and
bore me safe to the opposite side. Every step he took seemed to tell me
he knew I was timid and that he must therefore be very careful. I looked
after him, and with a silent good-bye stepped into the hotel and to my
room.
Beyrut is beautifully situated by the Mediterranean Sea, with its streets
sloping down, down to the beach, where we loved to stand and watch the
water roll and dash.
In the city are missions where the people are taught the way to God, and
young girls are taught to sing the songs of Zion.
The lady who had broken her limb was pleasantly situated at the hotel,
and I am sure you never saw a person more pleased to meet friends than
was Miss W. to see us. She had been fortunate in procuring the services
of a good physician who lived in Beyrut. He had placed her limb in a
plaster Paris case and she was getting along as well as might be expected.
Our hotel was right on the beach, and when sitting on the upper porch one
could see beyond the waters of the bay far out on the “great sea.” It was
quite pleasant to sit there and watch the ships in the distance as they
glided over the water. I remarked, “How very smooth and quiet the sea is
to-day. Surely a pleasant time to board the ship is in store for us.” A
missionary lady replied, “Possibly by two o’clock the sea will be very
wild.” And I thought it could hardly be possible, for sailing time was
near at hand.
Having nothing else to do I decided to watch the sea. Away off in the
distance a breaker rolled up; by and by a few more were seen; and then
I thought the lady knew what she was talking about, for one by one the
white-capped waves broke upon the shore before me, and the ship, which
was anchored perhaps a mile out, was made to move about uneasily. When
the hour of departure drew near seventeen people besides the boatmen took
seats in two rowboats. The men rowed toward the ship with a will, while
the water dashed about the little boats ladened with precious freight.
The ship was gained in safety; shortly after the whistle blew, and we
were on our way home. Many times we had longed for the day when our faces
would be turned in the direction of home, and now a silent prayer for
safety was breathed.
The sea voyage was rather a pleasant one, and in due time we reached
Smyrna, where many of our traveling companions took ship for
Constantinople and the rest of us went on to Trieste.
The first day of May we took passage on the steamship Werra, and for six
days she rolled and pitched because of a terrible storm on the Atlantic.
Of course I was seasick, and for three days ate not a mouthful of food.
When the storm subsided my desire for food returned, and from that on
I was able to go on deck. Eleven days were spent at sea, and not one
day was it quiet. When we landed at New York our hearts were full of
gratitude to the Lord for his tender, watchful care over us; for we were
conscious of his presence all the way and knew he would bring us home
safely.
Now, dear children, the task which was undertaken so reluctantly is
ended. Yet I cannot refrain from saying the work grew to be a pleasure
to me; and now it is given to you with the thought and hope that some
little word may have been written which will lead you to seek a better
life. Some one has said, “It is the greatest pleasure of living, to win
souls to Christ.” And should I be the instrument by which one boy or girl
is brought to Christ, my labor has not been in vain. And now may the kind
Heavenly Father bless you and keep your tender feet from treading the
paths of sin and wickedness.
[Illustration: THE END.]
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