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Harris, W. S. (William Shuler), 1865-

"A twentieth century allegory"

Surely you can give it." They became furious and ranted the more
at the thought of their past folly.
"Why come to me? Go to Mr. Flesh, or ask the Devil for help," pleaded
Mr. World.
"We have served the World, the Flesh, and the Devil. All have failed
us miserably. To whom else can we go but to anyone within our reach?
Oh! forsake us not in this awful plight!"
Poor Mr. World, unable longer to bear the sickening and threatening
attack, sank to the filth-covered floor and groaned aloud.
At once a fierce and powerful being came to the rescue and, flinging
the two unfortunates aside, lifted Mr. World to his feet and looked
down upon him with his awful eyes.
Mr. Intemperance lay crouching near the side of Mr. Lust, each smarting
under the pain of his fall.
"How came you to this place?" sternly asked the monster.
"By walking in at the door," answered the terrified Mr. World.
"Without permission?" he further asked.
"There was no one there to ask, and I, being out sight-seeing, thought
I might also enter in here."
The monster seized Mr. World by the arms and looked at him in a still
more frightful manner.
"You are not yet ready to come into this region, and if you will
solemnly pledge me that you will never reveal what you have seen here,
I will conduct you safely to the door; if not, you must remain here
without a ray of hope until death gives relief.


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