Attempt > Volume 1 and Select writings

56
THE ATTEMPT
JlrmiJU's ^iamonir.
AN ALLEGORY.
Whilst walking one snnny afternoon in a lonely garden, I entered an arbour, and
sat down to read. The hum of insects and gentle murmur of the breeze was very
soothing, and yet after a while I seemed obliged to rise and pursue my walk. I had
not proceeded far when I saw in front of me a great gate, standing wide open, with
apparently none to guard the entrance. I felt compelled to enter, but no sooner had
I done so than a figure in shining raiment stood in my path, demanding my object in
entering. “ The prospect is fair,” I replied, “ and I see others are here before me.
Is the way open to all?” “Yes,” was the reply, “to all, young and old; every one
comes hither to seek a treasure, though many, as you see, do not appear to be looking
for it very carefully.” “What is it they seek?” I asked; “I see them picking up
what has the appearance of stones.” “They are looking for the Light of the World,
a precious diamond of exceeding lustre, only discernible to those whose eyes are
trained aright. There are countless other stones lying about, some valuable, and some
often but glass, which have only a false glitter about them; the latter, however, are most
chosen by the inexperienced and vain.” “ How can they distinguish the false from
the true ? ” I inquired. “ There is a wonderful touchstone, which, if resorted to in faith,
is certain to guide them in their choice ; but, alas ! many neglect this, and are only
recalled to recollection by a certain furnace which they are obliged to pass through.”
“ That is surely not required by the King of the country ? could he not find some
gentler method of bringing them to their senses ?” “ Very often not, and their gracious
King does not do this from any wish to harm them, but in his wisdom he knows that
it is for their real good, and that they will thank him when they have found the true
diamond.” “ But if this diamond is the object of their search, why occupy themselves
with these other stones ?” “ They are all of use, at least those proved by the touch¬
stone, for even when the diamond is won, these gems give it additional lustre, and are
pleasing in the eye of the King; but the false are worse than useless, for they not
only draw away the attention from the true, but often completely turn the traveller
out of his course. You are a traveller likewise, for none can enter these gates and
turn back; see that you keep the touchstone carefully, and be not misled. Here is
a paper of directions, to which you must often refer for help, as its careful study will
lead you to the true diamond.”