The Dead Sea was on our right, still glittering in the distance, and
behind us lay the plains of Jericho and the wretched collection of
huts which still bears the name of the ancient city. Beyond that,
but still seemingly within easy distance of us, were the mountains
of the wilderness. The wilderness! In truth, the spot was one
which did lead to many thoughts.
We talked of these things, as to many of which I found that my
friend was much more free in his doubts and questionings than
myself; and then our words came back to ourselves, the natural
centre of all men's-thoughts and words. "From what you say," I
said, "I gather that you have had enough of this land?"
"Quite enough," he said. "Why seek such spots as these, if they
only dispel the associations and veneration of one's childhood?"
"But with me such associations and veneration are riveted the
stronger by seeing the places, and putting my hand upon the spots.
I do not speak of that fictitious marble slab up there; but here,
among the sandhills by this river, and at the Mount of Olives over
which we passed, I do believe."
He paused a moment, and then replied: "To me it is all nothing,--
absolutely nothing.
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