There once lived in the monastery¹ at Heisterbach a kindly² monk³, of great learning and simple manners. He had studied for many years that he might settle some doubts that troubled him.

He had observed that people grow tired of even the best of things. They desire to behold⁴ new scenes, to hear new music, and to taste new dishes.

“I wonder if it will be so in Heaven,” he said to himself. “Shall we not grow weary of beauties and joys of Heaven in the endless flow of ages?”

This question perplexed⁵ him sorely; but he was unable to answer it to his satisfaction. Wearied with the doubt, he decided⁶ to put it away from him if possible. So one beautiful sunny morning in summer[40] he turned his steps toward the woods that stretched away for miles back of the monastery.

It was such a morning as makes one glad to be alive. Silvery clouds were floating like great white ships across the blue sky. The gentle breeze was playing among the branches of the trees. Flowers were blooming and birds were singing happily everywhere.

Earth seemed to breathe forth⁷ peace and joy for all mankind. Beauty and blessing⁸ were everywhere. Yet, with all this to gladden him, Alfus was not satisfied. His heart was not at ease.

“Alas!” he sighed, “how all is changed! The rapture⁹ with which I first looked upon this lovely scene, is gone. The beauty with which it once greeted me is no more. Why must it be so?”

As Alfus was pondering on this thought he wandered on, paying no attention to the path he was following. Hour after hour passed and still he walked on, until finally[41] he became weary and decided to rest. He sat down on a mossy bank and began to look about him.

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