Episode 9: How Many Miles to Babylon?

How many miles to Babylon? Threescore miles and ten.Can I get there by candle-light? Yes, and back again.If your heels are nimble and light,You may get there by candle-light. –  Songs for the Nursery (1805)The date is November 15, 1636, and the wrecked Friedrich has deposited them in a very pleasant country, green and filled with birds who sing until the middle of December. The village of Nisavay has only 15 or 16 poor houses, built of clay and absolutely square, with turf roofs you can walk on. In summer, the Persians erect tents up there so they can enjoy the cool air.The weather is good, and on December 1 “a little society” of gentlemen find a place near Nisavay “so pleasant and inviting, that the fairest meadows in Europe afford not anything so delightful in the best season of the year.” A stream circles the meadow. Pomegranate trees invite them to “rest ourselves under their shade, and divert ourselves with the memory of our dear country.” They all bring what food and drink they have, and enjoy a picnic that lasts several days.They depart Nisavay on December 22, 1636. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit semipropilgrim.substack.com