From the orchard they went to the gardens and other workshops, closing the day with a visit to one of the large mercantile establishments of the city.

The next morning Paulus was on hand again to be their guide, but the King said: 

“We must now return home.  Much as we would like to remain—­to take up our permanent abode here, I see that my duty calls me home.  The Great King has something for me to do, and I shall try to do it.  Let us be going.”

Then the two visitors thanked their guide most graciously as he set them on their homeward way.

IV.

  “In my Father’s house are many mansions. * * * I go to prepare a place
  for you.”—­John 14:2.

Two men were walking in the grounds surrounding a stately residence on the outskirts of the city.

“I told you some time ago of the king of Poland’s visit,” said the one who had been instructor at the school.  “Did you see that item in the paper this morning?”

“Yes,” replied the other.  “The visit must have made a great impression on him, judging by what he is doing.”

“He was much interested.  He is a good man, and is carrying out the instructions which he received while here.  You have not been here before?”

“No; this is my first visit.”

“This house is being built for a descendant of mine who is yet in mortality.  I visit with him frequently, and he has asked me for suggestions as to its construction.  I have had much pleasure in giving them.  Soon he is to bring a wife into his new home, a dear good girl whom I am pleased to welcome in this way into our family.  The workmen have nearly finished their labors and I am devoting some time to the preparation of the grounds.  Will you have time to look around with me?”

“I have time today, brother.”

They walked towards the house.  It stood on the slope of a gentle elevation which furnished a view of the country westward.

“Here you see what I am doing.  I am departing somewhat from the usual form of lawn plans, but I want this place to have a special feature.  You see, I have led this stream of water around the hill-side and made it fall over this small precipice into this tiny lake.  What do you think of it?”

“It is beautiful and unique.”

“You see, brother, I have a liking for streams of water.  They always please my eye, and their babble and roar is music to my ears.  And then, someone else will soon be visiting with me here.  I call this my temporary Earth-home; and brother, nothing can be too beautiful for my wife.”

His companion looked at him and smiled.  The speaker smiled in return.  They understood each other.

“Yes, she is coming soon—­at any time, now.”

They walked into the house and inspected the building.  It was no exception to the other houses in the city, as beautiful as gold, silver, precious stones, fine woods, silks, and other fabrics could make it.  Most of the rooms were furnished, as if in readiness for occupancy.