THE BOOK OF ARTEMAS

Concerning men, and the things
that men did do, at the time when
there was war

NEW YORK
GEORGE H. DORAN COMPANY

COPYRIGHT, 1917, BY
W. WESTALL & CO.

COPYRIGHT, 1918, BY
GEORGE H. DORAN COMPANY

PRINTED IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

UNTO
EVE

THE BOOK OF ARTEMAS

CHAPTER I.

1 The Chronicles of Artemas, the scribe. 3 The state of the land of Eur. 4 Concerning Willi, who ruled over the men of Hu. 7 Concerning Mud, that was his son. 9 Mud encourageth the ambitions of his father. 19 And sendeth in unto him a certain wise man. 21 The parable of the oak tree. 26 And the interpretation thereof. 29 Willi maketh him a war.

The words of Artemas of the scribes that were in Lon in the land of En.

2 Of the things that were and of the things that were to be: concerning men and the things that men did do.

3 ¶ Now there was peace over all the land of Eur and amongst all the nations that abode there, it was a time of great content.

4 ¶ But Willi, who ruled over the men of Hu, was a crafty man and greedy, and his ways were devious.

5 And when he beheld the prosperity of the land and the industry of those that dwelt round about, and that they did live in peace, the one with the other, his heart grew black within him and his soul vomited envy.

6 Moreover, he was a proud man and ambitious withal. His covetousness was like unto a tree, that being planted in fertile ground, flourisheth mightily; and the independence of the peoples was as gall unto his vanity.

7 ¶ Now the son of Willi was a young man, and he was puffed out with pride and his mind was empty; in his living, he was vicious, and his name, it was Mud.

8 And when Mud saw that his father's soul was torn with the violence of his envy and that he coveted that which was not his, it rejoiced him exceedingly.

9 ¶ And he laid himself out to entice his father, and did speak many specious words unto him, and was for ever at him.

10 And Mud said unto his father, All Highest, hail! And Willi answered him, saying, Thou art my son: And Mud said unto him, Great art thou above all the kings of the earth, for thou hast served the Lord faithfully throughout the days of thy life.

11 And Willi answered him, saying, Verily have I found favour in the sight of the Lord; and in my sight has the Lord also found favour.

12 And Mud looked upon his father from the side; he gazed upon his countenance with a furtive look, and did see that his father's vanity was without bounds. So he spake unto him again, saying,

13 Thy shadow is as the sun whose rays bring forth warmth, giving life unto all them that are beneath it.

14 And Willi said, That which thou sayest is indeed true; yet doth the sun shine over all the world whilst my shadow is for ever at two hours after summer noon.

15 And Mud answered him, saying, In the evening of thy days shall thy shadow grow long, and it shall spread its shade over all the world; for it is a good world and deserveth well of thee. And the Lord will surely reward thee for all thy righteousness.

16 And Willi said, Verily, art thou my son, and in wisdom art thou second only to thy father. I will make me a covenant with the Lord, and it shall come to pass that I shall have dominion over all the earth and over all the waters that are on the earth. And whatsoever shall be left over, that will I give unto the Lord for to be His own.

17 And I will make might right, and them that bow not down before me, those will I surely slay, both they and their wives and their children and the stranger that is within their gates. And their oxen will I take as an offering unto my Majesty. And their household goods shall be mine by the strength of my sword.

18 And he said unto Mud, that was his son, Send thou unto me a wise man that I may take counsel of him.

19 ¶ And a certain man whose name was Bern was sojourning in the land, and him did Mud bring unto his father, having first instructed him privily.

20 And when he that was called Bern came into the presence of the king, he bowed him low, saying, Hail, O king!

21 ¶ And he began to speak, saying, There was a certain husbandman and he planted him an oak in a place where trees grew;

22 And it came to pass that the oak grew up and its roots spread themselves about. And there was not room enough in that place, and the trees that were planted there before rose up and choked it so that it did languish away until there was no sap remaining in it.

23 And when the husbandman saw how it was, he sent his servant with an axe and he told him to cut down the trees that were round about.

24 Yea, every tree except the oak did he command him to cut down, so that there was room, and the oak did flourish as the cedars that are in Lebanon, and its branches did sway them over all the world.

25 And Willi said unto him, Explain unto me the meaning of this parable, thou very wise man. Of what is the oak and of what the trees that were round about?

26 ¶ And Bern answered him, saying, The nurseryman is the Lord of Hosts. The oak that He planted, it is thyself, O king; and the trees that would choke it, they are the nations that dwell round about.

27 The axe is thine army, and the servant of the husbandman is he whom thou shalt make to be the captain over all thine host.

28 And when Willi heard the things that the wise man did say, he was well pleased; wherefore he gave unto him a cross, and it was made of iron.

29 ¶ And after he had made him secret preparations, he went out with a great multitude of men and much munition, and he made him a war, the like whereof was never known on earth before.

CHAPTER II.

1 Peace reigneth in En. 2 Internal discord is loosed. 4 The men of Ire have much power. 6 They obtain their demands. 12 Petty strife prevaileth. 14 The priests see wickedness everywhere. 19 The owners of ships raise their hire. 26 The rulers are blamed. 27 Concerning the war scribes.

Now there was peace throughout all the land of En, and the noise of battle was afar off. And the merchants of the world did bring their wares for to sell them, even fine cloth and spices that were rare did they bring in their ships.

2 ¶ But he that putteth away the sword doth loosen the tongue; wherefore it came to pass that there was great talk amongst the rulers, and the mighty men did say things, the one against the other.

3 And there were many jealousies amongst them, and they did utter spiteful sayings concerning each other; verily, they were like unto evil-minded children in a quarrel, and their pettiness of spirit was an abomination.

4 ¶ Now an House that is divided against itself will stand anything. And when men from the land of Ire took power into their own hands and did rule over En, there was no one amongst the rulers to say them nay.

5 And the men of Ire exacted tribute from the rulers, and the people of the land rebelled not; for penury doth bring forth wisdom, but prosperity breedeth only fools. And the prosperity of the land of En was great.

6 ¶ And when the men of Ire saw that all that which they demanded was given unto them, they did make them long faces, and did grumble aloud, and did utter groans in the public places and strange noises in the portals of the House. And when they had thus prepared the way for it, they did straightways ask for more.

7 And a few that dwelt in the land of En did make them a stand, saying, What we have given unto you, it is enough. Therefore, get ye hence, ye men of Ire.

8 And the men of Ire waxed very wroth, and they did curse the men of En and did swear strange oaths concerning them, so that they that were weak amongst the rulers began to shiver in their sandals.

9 And they held them a council together in secret and did agitate themselves greatly, seeking for a means whereby they might escape from the wrath of the men of Ire, for it was a terrible wrath, being very ugly.

10 And after one had said one thing and another had said another thing, then did all them that were gathered together make them an agreement, and they did give unto the men of Ire all those things that they had demanded.

11 And the men of Ire prepared them long faces and did get them ready for another occasion. Neither was the day ever known when any man that was from Ire did render thanks for that which he had received.

12 ¶ And class quarrelled with class, the artisan with the master, the noble with the serf, the priests with the people, and the fools with one another.

13 And all those that thought one thing did contend with them that did think another thing, and the bickering that was between them, it was very great.

14 ¶ And there were those amongst the priests that did travel about the country, crying out in a loud voice, and saying, Wickedness! Wickedness! All is wickedness!

15 And they did say many things concerning the young men and concerning the damsels, and also concerning them both together. And those that listened unto them were amazed that such things should be; and some there were that doubted.

16 And the priests did raise their hands unto heaven, saying, Deliver us from evil. And the people did drop their hands towards the earth, saying, Deliver us from the priests.

17 And notwithstanding all that which was said by the priests and by them that did grub into things, the wickedness of the people was in no wise greater than the wickedness of the other nations of the world.

18 And this was the state of the land of En when Willi did make him the War: but afterwards, it was different. For the rulers declared them a truce, and no longer cried out after one another in the public places; nevertheless, the ardour of the priests remained without abatement, and there were those amongst the newsmongers on both sides that did conceal their partisanship in an ill manner.

19 ¶ And because the land of En was built upon an island, therefore was it necessary for the food of the people to be brought unto them in ships.

20 And the men of Hu did sink of these ships a few, and the rulers of the land did seize a great number of them for to carry the armies and the implements of war. Wherefore the number of them that were available for to bring the people's food, it was less than before.

21 And they that did own the ships that remained did make them new rates of freight that were twofold, and threefold, and fourfold greater than those that had been before.

22 And the merchants did make them higher prices for the wares that they did sell; and some did do so because it was forced upon them; and others did do so because they were greedy for the profits, wherefore they spake privily, the one unto the other, saying, See, brother, the opportunity is upon us.

23 And because it was beyond them and they could devise no plan against it, therefore did the rulers of the land hold themselves aloof from all these things for a full two years.

24 Wherefore the people did pay them very dearly for everything that they did eat, and those that did sell merchandise in the market places, these grew fat in a lean time.

25 And when the people murmured, the rulers spake soft words unto them, saying, Assuredly is your lot cast in an hard place; even so, the straits of the men of Hu, are they not worse than yours? And because it was war, therefore were the people easily appeased.

26 ¶ Nevertheless, there were many that complained because the owners of the ships and those that sold the people's food did make them profits such as never before; and many blamed the rulers that did countenance such things at a time when there was war.

27 ¶ Now there were certain men amongst the scribes and they did wage them the war on paper.

28 And, of these, Belloc did write him for the great captains and for them in authority, that they might read and learn and receive his commandments.

29 And Blatch did write him for the common soldier, wherefore the violence of his words was a thing for delight, demolishing all contrary argument.

30 And Garv did write him so that all might read. And because there was nothing that this man did leave unwritten, therefore did those that followed him perforce forego their sabbath meal.

31 And there was also Horatio, being he that did for ever step into the breach; yea, even into the breach that was not there did he step; and he wrote concerning righteousness and blood.

32 And there were also others in great number, and all did write them freely and as men that did know.

33 And when the captains did not do those things that had been written down for their instruction, then was there much anger amongst the war scribes, and they did gnash their teeth in rage.

34 Wherefore they were continually provoked beyond endurance, and they wrote them more because of it.

CHAPTER III.

1 The rulers in En. 3 Concerning Herbert. 8 Concerning David. 11 Concerning Winston. 13 Concerning Walter. 14 Concerning Reginald. 19 Concerning Samuel. 20 Concerning Simon. 25 Concerning Masterman. 26 Concerning Augustine. 29 Concerning Grey. 33 Concerning John. 34 Concerning Haldane. 41 Concerning Tennant. 42 Concerning the other rulers.

Now these were the rulers in the land of En in the days when George that was the Fifth did reign and the Great War was begun.

2 There was Herbert, and David, and Winston, and Walter, and Reginald, and Samuel, and Simon, and Masterman, and Augustine, and Grey, and John, and Haldane, and Tennant; and there were also others, whereof the number was great beyond computation.

3 ¶ And Herbert was the man that was responsible unto the people, and he did take the head place at the table whereat the rulers did sit. And there was in him an abundance of patience such as no man did ever have before; and he did keep the rulers together, all in one body.

4 And in time of discord he was like unto a gentle shepherd when the rams do fight, and them that spake angrily in the council chamber he did soften with honeyed words.

5 Nevertheless, there were some that did say wicked things concerning him, and they did compare him unto a woman that is advanced in years.

6 And Herbert had taken unto himself a wife.

7 And when the time came, he did leave the head place at the table whereat the rulers did sit, and he did go.

8 ¶ Now before that it was war, David was an hated man; yet was he also loved. And afterwards it came to pass that he was a much loved man, yet was he also hated.

9 And David did many things so that men spake about him, saying, Behold, he is like unto a skeleton key that fitteth all locks. And whatsoever there is need of, that thing will he surely do.

10 But because he was new made and did carry on, therefore he lost favour with certain of the Pharisees, and his name did become an abomination unto them. Yet, when the time came, he went up unto the head place at the table whereat the rulers did sit.

11 ¶ Now Winston was a wild youth and rash, hot of the tongue and venturous in his undertakings. Nevertheless, he was not lacking in understanding.

12 And because he was like unto new wine when the vintage is good, therefore did they set him down in a place that was cool, saying, Peradventure, in a little time, there will be maturity.

13 ¶ And Walter was over all them that did deal in merchandise, and he sojourned amongst the rulers during many months. And the things that he did do, what man knoweth thereof? And when the time came, he did go.

14 ¶ Now Reginald was blessed with an heart that was overflowing with the milk of human kindness, and the lot of the immigrants from the land of Hu did move him mightily, so that he did weep tears.

15 And there were many of these men in the land of En, some of them being there that they might make money, and some of them were come for to spy out the land.

16 But Reginald did scorn to make him a distinction between them, fearing lest some man should say, See, there is one that he favoureth.

17 Neither would he lay himself out to hinder any man that was earning his bread; and the spies that were in the land, it was their means of livelihood.

18 Therefore did he uphold them, each man in his place, because he was Reginald. Wherefore there were many that conceived him weak unto foolishness. And when the time came, he did go.

19 ¶ And unto Samuel was given power over all the cities of En. And this man's name was not for ever in the mouths of the people, neither did they concern themselves at all with the things that he did do. Nevertheless, he was not an idle man. But when the time came, he did go.

20 ¶ Now Simon was a man that was strange in his beliefs, neither was he an help in time of trouble. And there were some that, seeking the reason for his falling away in the time of his country's tribulation, did say he was possessed of a devil.

21 And he was a man peaceable beyond all reason, so that he did put himself against the patriots of the land of En when they did set them out for to wage war in a cause that was just.

22 And because he and those that were with him were as a voice that crieth in the wilderness, therefore he did get him out from the inner chamber wherein did sit the rulers of the land, and he did make one cause with them that did for ever carp and cavil.

23 And when the counsellors assembled together for to make them ordinances for the salvation of the country, then would Simon rise upon his feet and he would make him an objection; therefore was he an hindrance unto them that did strive against the perils that beset the land.

24 And Simon was not loved in the country of En. Yet was he earnest in the things that he did do, being a man with a conviction that is founded amiss.

25 ¶ And he that was chief amongst all the rulers did say, on an occasion, Find thou me the man; then will I find the office. So they found him Masterman. And when the time came, he did go.

26 ¶ Now Augustine was a great sage, and there was no man in all the land of En that did surpass him in the knowledge that is gotten of books. Therefore they did make him to rule over the land of Ire.

27 And on a time when he was deep in engagement with the words of the ancient Greeks, behold, the men of Ire stole up secretly and they fell upon his servants so that many of them did die.

28 And when it was told unto Augustine what the men of Ire had done unto his servants, he was filled with a great wonder and his breast was torn with sorrow. And because it was a thing that liked him not, therefore did he remove himself from amongst the seats of the rulers, neither returned he thither again.

29 ¶ Now the chief of the scribes that did write unto the rulers of the nations concerning matters, his name was Grey, And he did send him epistles unto the four corners of the earth, saying this and saying that.

30 And to him there were given many tasks that were difficult, and he did not always find favour with the people; for there are some that look from afar towards the end, but the stones that are upon the way, them do they count not at all.

31 And it was said concerning him that he was a man of strength in time of stress, but in the leading up and afterwards, then was he weak as twine that is boiled, and slow as water standing in a pond.

32 But many of the things that he did do were good, and his name was not without honour in the land. Yet when the time came, he did go.

33 ¶ John, that was also called Honest, was another of them that believed not in war. Therefore he did hide himself away in the shadows of oblivion; but he hindered not the rulers in their endeavour.

34 ¶ Now Haldane was the Keeper of the King's Conscience in the land of En, and he was a man that was learned in the ways of the men of Hu, for his spirit abode amongst them; and the King of Hu, he did love him as a brother.

35 And the time came when all the people cried out with a loud voice, saying, Haldane must go! But because the winds did blow in an high quarter, he heard them not.

36 And there was a certain man and his name was Northcliffe. And it came to pass that when he cried out, behold, his voice did rise even as the winds, and it was above the shouts of all the other people.

37 And when Northcliffe had raised his voice for a long time so that his throat was raw, being like unto the flesh of a kid that is newly killed,

38 And when all the people had joined with him, shouting in a mighty voice that did shake the seats of the rulers with the violence of its clamour,

39 Then did Haldane hear, and he hearkened unto them.

40 And the people rejoiced them exceedingly, thinking it not good for one that had been in with the men of Hu to hold an high position in the land.

41 ¶ Now Tennant was adroit of the tongue. And when certain of the counsellors questioned him closely, seeking that they might entrap him, he would answer them with a multitude of words; nevertheless would he not say anything. And when the time came, he did go.

42 ¶ And concerning the other rulers of the land of En at the beginning of the Great War, is it not written in the Book of Stubbs? Both their names and the streets wherein they did have their habitations, thou shalt find them in that Book in the order that is of the alphabet.

CHAPTER IV.

1 The caution of the rulers. 4 They make them a censor. 11 The people complain. 14 They tell the people more. 15 And appoint Balf to speak concerning the navy. 20 He doeth so. 26 And becometh a laughing stock.

Now when the rulers of the land made them a war, they became very wary, fearing lest their enemies should discover those things that they had in store for them.

2 And they said, the one unto the other, It were prudent to say nothing unto the common people concerning what we have done. In this manner shall we preserve their peace of mind, and it will be a means also whereby we may throw dust in the eyes of the men of Hu. But after it is all over, then will we tell the people.

3 And because the thing that they did contemplate was not possible, therefore were they constrained to tell unto the people certain things concerning the war and how went the day.

4 ¶ Nevertheless, they were affrighted lest the people should learn too much, and so they made them a censor. And this was one that would say, This is so, and this only; the rest, it is not so.

5 And they that sold news unto the people were vastly provoked, for it liked them not to be told the things that they should say; also was it an hindrance unto them to be circumscribed by the truth.

6 And when they came into the presence of the censor and bowed themselves low before him (for he was a great man), he would have none of them.

7 And he would say unto them, These three lines, they are official: but the other things that have happened, they did happen not at all.

8 And those amongst the newsdealers that did know something would foam at the mouth in the violence of their rage. And they would spit upon the floor and would utter deep curses.

9 And because he was an orderly man, therefore did the censor make him a scheme for the better administration of all those things that were within his authority. And the scheme that he did make, it was this.

10 After a thing had become known in the land of Hu for the space of thirty days, then would he deliberate in his mind concerning it. And if it seemed good unto him, after seven days had passed he would impart it unto the people.

11 ¶ And there was a great outcry throughout all the land, for this was but one of many things. Verily, the patience of Job was not tried as the patience of the men of En in the days when they waged war.

12 And the people said unto the rulers, Why do ye these things, ye men of little understanding? Are we children that ye treat us thus, and have ye no faith in the strength of our conviction?

13 All those things that are safe for us to know, them shall ye tell unto us. And if the tidings be good, assuredly we will rejoice. And if the tidings be bad, they shall but serve to fortify our purpose. The tempest disturbeth the waters, the tempest revealeth the rock.

14 ¶ And the rulers heard what the people did say, and they hearkened unto them. And they said unto him that was the censor, The people are complaining because they know not how goes the day. Therefore shalt thou tell them more about it: but take care that it be not much more. And he did that which the rulers had told him to do.

15 ¶ And the rulers of the land did also call unto them a certain man, and his name was Balf. And he was over all the vessels of war, a mighty force, supreme upon the seas.

16 And they said unto him, Because thou art thou, therefore shalt thou say unto the people whatsoever seemeth good unto thee.

17 For thou hast a wise head and a still tongue, and whatsoever thou sayest, it will not be too much.

18 Now it came to pass that the vessels of the men of En did fight with the vessels of the men of Hu in a great battle, and it raged for a long time.

19 And before it was come to an end, behold, the vessels of the men of Hu did steal away quickly and did hide them in a mist, for the day had not gone well with them, and they were sore afflicted.

20 ¶ And when word was brought unto Balf concerning the battle, and concerning the numbers that had perished on both sides, he did call the people unto him, and he spake unto them, saying,

21 Woe is this day that hath brought desolation unto En. Know ye, O my brothers, how many be slain of them that sailed against the men of Hu? Assuredly, the number thereof, it is very great. And of the vessels of war, there be many destroyed. Verily is this a day that is full of woe.

22 And when the people heard that which he did say unto them, they were perturbed beyond measure, fearing they knew not what.

23 And after a certain time had passed by, he called the people unto him again, and he spake unto them, saying, Wherefore are ye perturbed and why cast down?

24 Listen unto me, ye men of gloom, and rejoice at my words. For in that battle whereof I have told you, many perished that sailed from En; but amongst the men of Hu there was carnage that was great beyond compare. And that day did see our adversary vanquished in the fight.

25 And they that heard him were amazed and said, the one unto the other, What strange fruits, these, of his philosophy!

26 ¶ But the news-mongers gloried in his foolishness, because he was the mouthpiece of the rulers.

27 Nevertheless, he that was the censor relaxed not his vigilance, so that nothing was known in the land of En save only those things that were necessary for to quiet the people.

CHAPTER V.

1 Concerning the changes that were wrought by the war. 2 The debtors are given grace. 4 Strong drink becometh hard to get. 10 It groweth difficult to make a journey. 16 The bazaars are closed at an early hour. 20 Much money is earned by the workers. 22 The manner of spending it.

And these are certain of the things that did come to pass in the land of En during the days of the Great War.

2 ¶ Now immediately that there was war, grace was given unto them that were in debt; and that which they did owe, for a certain time they did not pay it.

3 Therefore was the war a mixed blessing unto such as these, and in those places that are beyond the Gate of Notting Hill, the days of grace were welcomed with the sound of timbrels and there was much rejoicing.

4 ¶ And those that drank not strong drink set them to work. And they concealed their purpose beneath the shadow of the war, and they prevailed upon the rulers to be an help unto them.

5 And so it was that the doors of the taverns were closed against the people save only for five hours during the day; neither was it lawful for them to buy any strong drink from the publicans except at the time appointed.

6 In this wise did the water bibbers advantage their object, for they had rightly conceived that the war was an hefty lever wherewith to work their will.

7 And those that drank of the juice of the grape did become quick at the swallow, for the time that they did have, it was short.

8 And the preachers and all those that did meddle with the independence of the people were filled with pious joy, and they rejoiced in their tabernacles of stone and of tin, and in their habitations also, saying, Thus are the wicked punished and the thirsty sent empty away.

9 And because the publicans were the people to go for, and they did know it, therefore did they not complain; and the cocoa gulpers triumphed on that day.

10 ¶ Now there were many sojourning in the land of En that came of an hostile country. And because they were a danger unto the state, therefore did the rulers make new laws concerning them.

11 And to this end, whosoever did travel unto certain places was commanded to write him his name in a book that was at the inn where he did rest.

12 Now when a man and a woman did journey unto the sea and did sojourn there for a week-end, then would they say unto all and sundry, Behold, a priest has licensed us to do this thing, for we are wed.

13 And sometimes it was so: but there were some that did lie about it, hoping perchance to save them lodgment money, or fearing to offend the righteous.

14 Therefore was the new law a cause of vexation unto them, for to write in a book their true names, it was not wise; and to write them names that were false, it was a dangerous thing and costly withal.

15 And though many complained in secret, nevertheless, there was no change made in the law, for the rulers of the land did rightly own no knowledge touching such affairs; and they that did transgress did pay the penalty.

16 ¶ And it was ordained that all the bazaars throughout the land should close them their doors at eight hours after midday.

17 Yea, even unto them that sold tobacco and unto the vendors of sweet stuffs was the mandate sent. And because these were used to ply their trades by night as well as by day, therefore did the order seem the more amazing unto them.

18 And the damsels liked it not because of their stomachs. And when a man did go for to buy him cigarettes and it was too late, he would utter maledictions upon the doorstep; and the next time he would remember.

19 And in the time of his extremity the married man did borrow from his wife; and it did cost him dear because she did have her price. Verily, whatsoever she desired, that did she get out of him, for the moment was favourable unto her purpose.

20 ¶ And many were put to labour on munitions, and they did work them long hours at a goodly recompense.

21 And when the week was come unto its end, then did they receive their hire; and because it was a lot of money, they knew not what to do with it.

22 ¶ And some bought them musical instruments; wherefore was there great complaining amongst those that lived round about, for the noise that they did make was as the harmony of the damned.

23 And amongst the women, there were some that bought them feathers and ribands of a gaudy hue; and they adorned themselves most wonderfully.

24 And whensoever they ventured forth into the public places, there was a stir amongst the populace. Yea, verily, from the north unto the south, and from the east unto the west, wheresoever they appeared, the people were amazed at the strangeness of their garb.

25 But there were many that being full of wisdom and aflame with love of En, did lend a part of that which they earned unto the rulers of the land for to buy them munitions of war.

26 And, howsoever much it was, it did breed them profits during every year that it was away, so that they prospered and became men of substance.

27 Nevertheless, there was fear in them that when the war was come to an end the rulers would take from each so much, saying unto him, A good and faithful servant has thou been and prudent, and thou wast an help unto us when we had need of thee. And now, listen:

28 Inasmuch as thy brothers have wasted their substance on idle things of no account, therefore are they become paupers, and they are hungerstarved.

29 But thou hast been saving in the past and thine hire has bred thee profits. Thy foresight has delivered thee from want during all the days of thy life.

30 Therefore shalt thou pay so much unto each of thy poor brethren, for in this wise they shall have subsistence that will keep them safe from want.

31 And the wasters winked them each the left eye, for they knew full well that when the time came that they were impoverished, then would the thrifty ones be taxed for to feed them.

32 For the frugal man shall sweat; but the waster, he shall lap it up. And so it was in the land of En.

CHAPTER VI.

1 The chief amongst the tax gatherers speaketh unto the people. 5 They hearken unto him. 9 Wherefore the price of paper increaseth. 12 The people are divided amongst themselves concerning the notes of paper. 17 The nature thereof. 19 The people lend their money unto the rulers. 26 And the land of En becometh mighty.

And because there was war, therefore did he that was chief amongst the tax gatherers send word unto the people regarding what they should do. And he said unto them, Hearken unto me, all ye men of wealth, and obey my behests.

2 Ye know that the hosts of En are gone out against a mighty enemy, against a strong foe and one that is wary. And his armaments are terrible beyond anything seen by men before. Therefore it behoves us to gird up our loins for the fray, because it will be a fight unto the death.

3 And all the gold that ye have, that bring ye unto me, and I will give you notes that are of paper in place of it. And whatsoever ye may buy with gold, that may ye also buy with the notes of paper.

4 And our strength will be great amongst the nations, for gold maketh a good ambassador. And we will buy us deadly engines of war and munitions in a great quantity, for a long purse sufficeth in all things.

5 ¶ And so the people did bring gold unto the rulers, some in pieces of ten, some in pieces of an hundred, and some in pieces of a thousand. Verily, whatever gold the people did have, that did they bring with them.

6 And as the people delivered their gold unto the one appointed, he would say unto them, How many pieces of gold hast thou brought, brother? And he would answer them, saying, Such and such a number have I brought.

7 And he would exchange him the gold for notes of paper, even one note of paper for each piece of gold that he did bring with him.

8 And the weight of gold that was exchanged in those days, it was very heavy, so that it did take seven hundred seventy and seven thousands of elephants for to move it.

9 ¶ And the number of the notes of paper was beyond all counting. Wherefore there was a dearth of paper in the land and the price of it became an high one.

10 And they that were dealers in books demanded five shekels of silver for their wares; and before, they did ask only four shekels of silver and six pieces of copper.

11 Nevertheless, there yet remained some in the land that bought them books for to read: and the rest of the people, recking not the waste of paper, did take up their pens, and they did write. And Artemas, the scribe, he was one of these.

12 ¶ And because it was not the custom in the land of En to use notes of paper, save amongst them that were rich, therefore were the people divided among themselves concerning it, whether it were for an advantage.

13 And those that were careless in their manner of living, they liked it not. But the others, they were content, for the notes of paper were without weight, and the space that they did occupy, it was small.

14 And when a man, thinking it a bill that was not paid, did throw away a note of paper that was worth twenty shekels of silver, then would he curse aloud, using new words, and he would affright the passers-by with the violence of his lamentations.

15 And because the notes of paper were thin and did stick themselves together, therefore did a debtor, being unaware, sometimes give the worth of two pieces of gold unto him to whom he owed but one.

16 And this man also would sorrow cursefully and he would tear his hair. And Willi, that was the cause of it, he would consign him unto the nethermost part of Hell.

17 ¶ And the notes of paper were not alike, being writ in two colours; and the one colour, it was black, and the other colour, it was red.

18 And one of those that were writ in black was as much as two that were writ in red; wherefore, and because they were passing rare, they found great favour in the eyes of the people.

19 ¶ Now it came to pass that the rulers did have a need of money for to buy them implements of war. And they sent word unto the people concerning it.

20 And immediately there arrived at the receipt of custom a great multitude of men, each man bearing upon his back a weight of money, according to his means. And they jostled, the one against the other, in their haste to be first.

21 And they said unto the rulers of the land, All that which we have brought with us, that do we lend unto you. Go ye out, therefore, and buy ye the things that are necessary. Neither shall ye stint yourselves in the matter, but rest assured that whatsoever more ye shall require, it shall be forthcoming.

22 And the notes of paper that they did bring unto the rulers of the land were in number as the blades of grass in a meadow that extendeth out of sight. Yea, even more than the words of the rulers was the number thereof, notwithstanding that the jaws of these were for ever agitated.

23 So the rulers of the land did set out for to buy them munitions of war in a great quantity; even all that which they did require did they set out for to buy.

24 And all the merchants of the world came in unto them and displayed their wares before them; and they were eager for to make the bargain and to traffick with the rulers.

25 For the power of money was great in that time, and the things that it could not do, they were not.

26 ¶ And because the people brought unto the rulers money that was of a value beyond calculation, therefore was the might of En felt throughout all the world.

CHAPTER VII.

1 The country is bereft of its young men. 2 The rulers send unto the women. 3 Who make them munitions of war. 4 And sell merchandise in the bazaars. 8 And watch over the people. 11 They receive much money. 14 Concerning a certain man that imbibed too freely. 23 The women work on the land. 34 They rebel.

Now it came to pass that all the young men went forth for to fight, and there remained only those that were old or infirm and some that had sneaked them through.

2 ¶ And because there was much work to be done, therefore did the rulers of the land send word unto the women, saying, Come ye unto the workshops of the cities and there do all those things that the young men were wont to do. And they came as with one accord.

3 ¶ And they did make them munitions of war of many kinds, and did become skilled artificers, both in metal and in wood; and they rested not from their labours, save only on the days appointed.

4 ¶ And there were others that did sell merchandise in the bazaars. And so it fell out that when a man went forth for to buy him under-vestments, the damsel that was in the bazaar would say unto him, What is thy need, O son of man?

5 And he was ashamed to tell her all that which was in his heart, and he knew not what to say; wherefore was he halting in his speech and his countenance did take on the colour of blood.

6 But the maiden that did tend unto his wants, she was in no wise disquieted, and she did beseech him to impart unto her the name of the thing.

7 And, afterwards, she did hold up the leg of the garment for appraisement and did raise her voice in praise of it. And the young man was brought into a proper state upon the instant, so that he did buy whatsoever she did shew unto him. And his going out from that place was quicker than his coming in.

8 ¶ And there were women appointed for to see that the people did no wrong thing. And certain of these did betake them on the dark nights unto the quiet places at a time when the mating season was nigh.

9 And they did flash them a light on those that were unready; but those that did know about it, them did they find better circumstanced.

10 And the people liked it not, for there was no place that was safe unto them, and the course of true love was an hard one and much beset with spies.

11 ¶ And because the women were given high places in the land, therefore was their recompense high also, and the money that they did earn, it was a large sum.

12 And so it came to pass that certain men that were mean of spirit forsook their labours and became idle. And when men spake unto them concerning it and upbraided them, they answered them, saying, Wherefore should we go about it? And why should we toil? Are not our wives diligent, and do they not provide for us according to their means?

13 And they that heard them were filled with a great aversion, and they were glad in their hearts that in all the land of En there were few men like unto these.

14 ¶ Now there was a certain man and he did imbibe of the juice of the grape in a manner that was not wise.

15 And every night when he returned unto his habitation he was full up with strong drink; and because he sought his bedchamber in vain, therefore would he make him a couch upon the mat that was nigh unto the gate.

16 And it was a sore trial unto his wife, for she knew not what to do. And she did cast about in her mind, seeking to devise some means whereby to make him whole.

17 And because she was a woman wise beyond the most, being also strong and lusty, therefore did she contrive a plan; and she became one of them that looked after the people.

18 And the same night when her husband returned unto her, walking in soulful meditation because he was drunk, then did she go forth for to greet him; and she came upon him in the way.

19 And she called unto her two women, mighty of stature, that were lying in ambush near by. And the muscles of their arms were of a size and their strength was very great. And they took him.

20 And it came to pass upon the morrow that he was brought before the judge. And when he had heard all that the women had to say, he said unto him, Assuredly thou art a guilty man.

21 For thine indiscretion thou shalt be mulcted in forty shekels of silver; and if thou payest not upon the nail, then shalt thou be cast into prison, there to remain during fourteen days.

22 And because he was a wise man when the morning was come, therefore he paid up; and he returned unto his home much chastened. And from that day forth he put all strong drink away from him, wherefore he was called Tam-ed, which signifieth, One that hath been through it.

23 ¶ Now when the harvest was ripe, and there were no labourers in the fields for to gather it in, the husbandmen that were on the land became cast down and they did make them an outcry.

24 And certain women approached unto them, and said, Wherefore are ye cast down, ye wealthy men of the fields?

25 Behold, we and our sisters will gather in the standing corn, and in the winter we will prepare the ground for the crops that are to be.

26 And because it is not in them to be otherwise, therefore the husbandmen changed not their countenances that were woeful; but they said unto the women,

27 Forget ye not that ye are what ye are. Nevertheless, because ye say it, therefore it shall be so. First shall ye reap the harvest, and afterwards shall ye do the other things whereof ye speak.

28 And so the women laboured all day in the fields. And they did take them cooling drinks amongst the corn when the sun was high, and they did eat cream that was rich unto yellowness, and also pasties in abundance. Nevertheless, when night was come they did sleep; neither did the things that they had eaten lie heavy upon their stomachs.

29 And so the harvest was gathered in and there was much rejoicing because of it. But amongst the husbandmen there was only foreboding, for such do never rejoice.

30 And when the cold of the year was come, the husbandmen spake unto the women, saying, Now is the time when ye shall go forth to prepare the ground for the crops that are to be.

31 And so the women went forth. And when they had come unto the place appointed, behold, there was a great heap before them, and it was manure. And the husbandmen drew nigh and they said unto the women,

32 All this shall ye spread upon the fields, and more also. And it shall come to pass, after that ye have digged it in, that the earth shall be renewed; and the crops that ye shall sow, these shall flourish exceedingly. And the husbandmen went their way.

33 Now the heap that was manure, it was an abomination; and the stink thereof was so great that the women did cover over their nostrils with cambric and with pieces of fine lace.

34 ¶ And they followed after the husbandmen with one accord, and spake unto them, saying, We did gather in your corn, even the oats and the barley did we reap for you: and the hay, we did make it into stacks.

35 And the husbandmen answered them, saying, Verily all these things whereof ye speak, them did ye do.

36 And the women said unto them, The scent of the harvest was sweet unto our nostrils; but this heap that is manure, it is a stinking thing, and we will have none of it.

37 So they turned them about and hied them unto the cities for to become scribes. And they did spend the wages of their first week's hire upon a measure of choice perfume. Nevertheless, the stink of the heap that was manure abode with them during many days.

CHAPTER VIII.

1 The rulers make them new laws. 2 And close the bazaars. 5 They give more light. 9 They tax the profits that were made because of the war. 13 Bribery flourisheth. 15 The petrol is conserved. 18 They that seek after pleasure are taxed. 20 The taxes are paid gladly. 23 Concerning commissions. 29 And Northcliffe.

Take heed, all ye that read, and pay attention, for these are the things that the rulers of the land of En did lay upon the people at a time when there was war.

2 ¶ Now they did make them a law and did enjoin upon all the dealers in merchandise that they should cease from trafficking in the market places in the youth of the night; yea, at eight hours after midday were they constrained to stop from selling their wares and merchandise.

3 And the reason thereof was uncertain, some saying it was for a means of saving fuel, whilst others did say it was because those that served in the bazaars were few and needed them rest.

4 But there were many that did say it was but the spirit of interference that was rife in the land; and they were filled with suspicion, thinking that the early closers were grinding them their axe.

5 ¶ And in the summer season the rulers did give unto the people more light. And it was the light of day that they bestowed, but upon the doings of the war they shed no more light.

6 Now the giving of more light was one of the things that the rulers did wisely, wherefore the people did praise them; and they were amazed, for it was not the custom amongst the men of En to praise the rulers of the land.

7 Neither was there often cause therefor, for a wise ruler is precious beyond price, howbeit many a fool is raised unto an high place;

8 For the fool speaketh sometimes wisdom, and it is recorded. But the foolishness of fools do men forget.

9 ¶ And certain men did set them about for to find a means whereby they might make a good thing out of the war.

10 And when word was brought unto the rulers concerning what they were doing, they did make them a law. And they did take unto themselves a certain share from the profits that these men did gather in.

11 And those that were at one with the patriots complained not; and those that were making them enough, neither did these complain.

12 And they that did do things for the rulers out of the generosity of their hearts, even these went not empty away.

13 ¶ And there were certain men amongst the servants of the rulers that did ask for sweet oil, and they did say unto the traders, Grease thou the palms of our hands that we may bargain with thee to thy advantage.

14 And those that were found out were cast into prison, and their names did stink most vilely throughout the length and breadth of the land.

15 ¶ And because it was a prudent thing to do, the rulers gave unto them that had chariots only so much of what men called petrol as was left over. And the hosts of En did receive their portion before all others.

16 Therefore those that were wealthy amongst the people used not their chariots save when there was need; and they that were used to joy ride, they did do so no more.

17 For in all matters were the people ready to make them sacrifices unto the needs of the war, and they did do all those things that were required of them for to bring nearer the end of it.

18 ¶ And a tax was made upon all those that did go unto the theatre; yea, even upon them that did view the pictures and upon them that did watch men playing with a ball, was the tax imposed.

19 And because it was not much, and was, moreover, a righteous tax, they did pay it gladly; and the number of them that did go unto such places, it was not less than before.

20 ¶ And there were other taxes also and they were exceeding heavy, so that all the money that was paid by the people unto the tax gatherers was great beyond anything that men had thought possible.

21 Nevertheless there was no murmuring in the land, and the people did push, the one against the other, to be first at the receipt of custom, every man with his money in his hand.

22 And he that was the chief amongst all the tax gatherers was amazed. And he spake unto several concerning it, saying, Are not these that do shower their gold upon me the same that before did curse my name? When I asked for a mite, they reviled me shamefully; yet, now I ask for much, behold, they bring it flowing over. For he understood not that this was the spirit of the nation.

23 ¶ Now when there was any matter that was beyond the rulers so that they knew not what to do, they would appoint them a commission for to inquire concerning it.

24 And a commission was an assembly of wise men that were sometimes foolish; and they would gather themselves together, and they would question all and sundry, and they would talk.

25 But lest they should do some thing in their carryings on, the rulers would give them instruction and would speak unto them, saying,

26 Go ye into a room apart and gather round. And send the young men into the highways and into the byways that they may bring unto you all them that know aught concerning the matter. And whatsoever they may say unto you, that shall ye hear.

27 Afterwards, ye shall make us a report, for that doeth injury unto no man. But woe be unto you if ye shall do anything that exceedeth our commandment; verily shall our wrath burn thee up, and thy bones shall fall away into dust.

28 By this means did the rulers put away for a long time those things that were vexatious unto them, having faith in the memory of the people that it was short. Therefore was a commission unto the rulers as a bag of sand unto him that fighteth, for it was a shield. And the day was not known whereon the rulers appointed them not a commission.

29 ¶ But there was a certain man and his name was Northcliffe. And the people were divided into two camps concerning him, some saying that he was a raiser of scares, whilst others did say that he knew things. And all were agreed that he was a thorn in the side of the rulers.

30 And when a commission did bring its report unto the rulers, then did these retire unto the privacy of their bedchambers. And the report they did take with them for to be a pillow unto their heads.

31 And Northcliffe would raise his voice on high and he would say many bitter words. And he would arouse them and would make them to do things.

32 And though many were against him because of it, the good that he did do was manifest. And because he left not the rulers to sleep, therefore did men call him Helsabout, which meaneth The Awakener.

CHAPTER IX.

1 Darkness in the cities. 5 The young things rejoice. 7 And love flourisheth. 10 Many errors are committed. 14 Concerning what happened unto a certain young man. 27 The reason thereof. 30 One pardoneth the little boys.

Now the rulers sent them word unto all the cities, saying, Let there be no light; and there was no light.

2 And every man did hide his candle under a bushel, else did he pay for his rashness in many shekels of silver. Yea, there was even darkness upon the highways and in those places where the people did pass to and fro. And the darkness did breed confusion.

3 Now they that lived in Lon were in two minds concerning it. And some that did sell merchandise in the bazaars, they did make them a noise, being perturbed because of their pockets. And there were others that did utter loud manifestations of joy. And the old women that were there, these ventured not forth after the sun was set.

4 And they that were dealers in merchandise did make loud lamentations and did put on sackcloth and ashes, saying, Wherefore should we sit in darkness? And why cry our wares in the shadow? And because men knew them, therefore they heeded them not.

5 ¶ But amongst the young things of the city there was great rejoicing, for the mandate, it was welcome unto them.