The unvarying East : modern scenes and ancient Scriptures / E.J. Hardy.

  • Hardy, E. J. (Edward John), 1849-1920.
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Credit: The unvarying East : modern scenes and ancient Scriptures / E.J. Hardy. Source: Wellcome Collection.

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    PREFACE This latest indulgence of mine in the bad habit of writing books should be excused, because whatever else “ The Unvarying East ” is it is not long-winded. It is intended for those who have not opportunities of travelling or time to read large volumes on Eastern manners and customs. It is true that people nowadays are more inclined to read about great books, including the Bible, than to read great books themselves, but it is also true that he who only knows the Bible does not the Bible know. The ignorance of the Bible that prevails is so great that I am not surprised at an experience related by Sir Ernest Shackleton. To a little waiting-maid who brought to him tea one morning he said. What a rainy day, Mary ! It’s almost like the Flood.’ ‘ The Flood, sir? ’ said the little maid. She looked at me with a puzzled smile. ‘ Yes,’ said I. ‘The Flood—Noah, you know—the Ark—Mount Ararat.’ She shook her head, and murmured apolo- getically, ‘ I ain’t had no time to read the papers lately, sir.’ ”