George—Since you have grown so sentimental I shall not be surprised to soon find my occupation gone. All I ask is that you shall wear your laurels as modestly as ever I have worn mine.
De L'Ester—With your illustrious example ever present I shall endeavor to emulate your exalted virtues. In the meantime, Madame Bomûza, aroused from her melancholy mood, appears to take a lively interest in Monsieur Bomûz who utters peculiar sounds, pounds his hands against the bars and probably is informing her of the proximity of strange, sinister looking beings. That she now perceives us is evinced by her alarmed manner, whimpering cries and poundings on the bars of her cage which have attracted the attention of a keeper who hastens in this direction. Yonder, too, are our friends hastening to join us. Lohaû, Lohaû ēmanos, you are as welcome as you are prompt in keeping your appointment. Ha̤-Moûfih, the favor of your presence with us is esteemed at its full value.
Genessano—Gentola̤ ēmana̤, one is with us who has not been so long in our spirit world as have Inidora̤ and I, consequently he possesses personal knowledge of events transpiring on Ento during recent times. Like my brother and myself, he does not at all understand your language, and as a means of communication with you he must avail himself of De L'Ester's kind assistance. It is my privilege and pleasure to make known to you, Ha̤-Moûfih Ada̤ssi, whom we all hold in our hearts as a dearly beloved and valued friend.
Gentola—I regret that I cannot converse with you directly, but through this kind interpreter we shall become acquainted and I shall hope to find myself no less in your favor than are these our mutual friends.
Ha-Moufih—Gracious lady, I salute you and owe you thanks that you receive me so courteously. I too regret that we cannot more readily exchange converse, but doubtless a degree of patient persistence will suffice to make us mutually understood.
In accordance with a prearranged plan I shall undertake a relation of some events which may serve to illustrate certain points. To do so will oblige me to be more prominently personal than I could wish, but you and our friends will excuse my using such means as may seem best fitted for the accomplishment of a desired end. At the time of my birth my father, Ha̤-Moûfih Ada̤ssi, was governor of the Province of Ondû. I being the first born of my parents was given the name of my father. You may not have been informed that on Ento nearly always the first born son takes the name of the father as the first born daughter takes the name of the mother. I am aware that with much of Ento's history of the past four centuries you are acquainted, so for the most part I shall confine myself to a relation of events occurring within the years of my mortal existence, and of those following my departure into Ento's Spirit World, where quickly I learned the law of return into mortal conditions, and thus through observation and association with recently freed spirits I have kept myself informed as to many things relating to Ento's peoples and affairs to which I may find it expedient to refer. During my youth I attended several Institutions of learning, but the greater part of my education I received in this Galarēsa̤ of Camarissa̤, and when my parents considered me sufficiently advanced in age and in my studies, I, with other youths under the care of a guardian, were permitted to travel through foreign countries, observing the peoples, their customs and attainments with such other features as might afford us a general knowledge of Ento.
An exhaustive investigation of natural history possessing for me an absorbing interest, on my return home I besought and obtained permission of my parents to, in my own way, pursue the engrossing study which during the remainder of my mortal existence largely occupied my time and attention.
At this moment it occurs to me that to avoid confusion of mind it may be well for me to use your standard of time. Also to state that I date my birth at a time corresponding to about the middle of your seventeenth century, hence am an Entoan of a comparatively modern time. Ere I began my journeyings a quarter of a century of my youth had elapsed, and the close of another twenty-five years found me still a wanderer over the lands of Ento. During all these years my restless mind and untiring investigations led me to an exploration not only of easily accessible climes, but also of the planet's frozen extremities. Doubtless you have become informed that air transports traverse the entire planet, and that wherever necessary or desirable, stations for the convenience of travel and commerce long have been established. Thus favored I pursued my travels until, save for one extensive equatorial region far westward of Indoloisa̤, of which presently I shall speak, I had traversed the entire surface of Ento.
My absences from Camarissa̤ were of longer or shorter duration, but the love of my pursuit so grew upon me that only affection for my aging parents drew me to the arms ever ready to welcome me. Early in my fifty-second year my mother passed to our Spirit World. My father, grief stricken and aged beyond a century, quickly followed her, as, I then believed, into endless silence, but as I how know, into realms inconceivably glorious. Thus I became hereditary governor of Ondû.
Much against the wishes of my parents I had not married, my pursuit affording me little time or inclination for the society of women. Then, too, early in my youth I had observed that the most poignant sorrows had their roots in human affection; that those who loved least, sorrowed least. With pitying eyes and a pained heart I had often had occasion to sympathize with those whose light of life went out, when death tore from their clinging arms their dearest ones, and I fully realized that should I allow myself the ecstasy of loving an adorable woman I should only be courting for her or for myself eventual despair. So I did not marry.
On becoming governor of Ondû I learned that the duties of my office and other affairs left me insufficient leisure to care for the valuable collections of many years, and I resolved to add them to the already priceless treasures of the Syffondû (museum) of the Acclinum (zoölogical department) and the Rinvoh (aquarium). During my wanderings I had from time to time become possessed of strange creatures, some living, some dead. The water serpent, which I learn you already have seen, was captured in Tsoivan Cryfimo, which is one of a series of salt lakes, or, as De L'Ester terms them, inland salt seas, nearly on the opposite side of Ento. At the time of his capture Gandûlana̤ was about one-third his present size and I had been governor of Ondû for quite forty years. Three years later I passed to our Spirit World, and my paternal uncle, Unda̤ Gamonda̤, became my successor, but only for a period of twelve years, when he followed me, and his son, Unda̤ Gamonda̤, became and at this time is governor of the Province of Ondû. Thus you may perceive that Gandûlana̤ is not in his early youth. How long he may yet survive as the last of his species no one can say.
Unda̤ Gamonda̤ is a learned and most admirable man, under whose administration this Province is most prosperous. Under his fostering care manufactures, arts, sciences and industries are afforded every possible opportunity for favorable progress, and those engaged in the cultivation of the wonderfully productive irrigated lands which occupy the entire Province of Ondû ever find him more than willing to further their interests. He is an artist, too, of excellent ability, and on yonder ornate pedestal symbolizing Commerce and Agriculture is a statue, the work of his dexterous mind and hands, which is admirable enough to command attention and high praise. In the poise of the noble head, in the expression of the intellectual and extremely handsome face and in the majestic pose of the stately form, true genius has found fine expression. Unda̤ Gamonda̤, artist and kinsman in saluting this symbolic marble I salute thee, and in the world of spirits one day I shall meet thee face to face.
You are aware that the Entoans have no knowledge or even hope of a continuity of life, so you may believe that when in our Spirit World I became conscious of the stupendous, the glorious, fact that I still existed, and that my dearly beloved ones who had preceded me were embracing and greeting me, I was overwhelmed with amazement and a joy so profound that for a time I found no utterance. Oh, the wondrous delight of finding myself young and strong, with all my faculties enlarged, and yet the greater delight of realizing the presence of those over whose ashes I had shed many bitter tears. I was as one intoxicated. I rushed hither and thither, eager to behold the strange, beautiful World of Spirits. I took no thought of the past or of Ento. I lived, I lived, and the unlooked for joy of it for a time rendered me oblivious of the memories of mortal existence, but ere long they revived, enkindling a desire to visit scenes which were still dear to me. Under instruction of friends soon I learned to accomplish my desire, and since then it has been my duty as well as my pleasure to frequently revisit Ento. Thus I have kept in touch with such events and conditions as concern its peoples.
I shall now speak of a past which also in a measure will involve mention of more recent times.
About ten years prior to my demise a party of adventurous hunters journeyed to a far northern region known as Tsomana̤. It lies well within the Arctic Circle, where in certain localities, are great mining interests and a dense population. Well equipped for their purpose these hunters journeyed by air transport to one of the mining centres, thence by other means they sought the habitat of a species of animals of a very fierce and courageous nature. De L'Ester and others have informed me that on your planet there is no weapon even remotely resembling our yarû-testo, which is an electric instrument of deadly power. With it some of the animals were slain and several of their young captured and brought to this Acclinum, where, in apartments sufficiently cooled, they grew to maturity, and since then largely the Acclinums of other countries have been supplied from their increase. Perhaps you may not have been told that through various natural causes animal life on Ento is not very abundant, more especially domestic animal life. The animals of whom I have spoken are known as gowhya̤, and if it may please you to enter their abode you now may do so.
Gentola—Am I dreaming, or have I suddenly dropped into an Earth cavern? Surely those are bears or animals very like them. Now that I look more closely the resemblance is not quite so striking. Describe them? I will try. They are larger than any bears I have seen. Their limbs are long and so are their bodies, which are not very bulky. Their heads are large in proportion to their bodies, and their necks are longer and more slender than are the necks of our polar or other bears. Their long, drooping ears and deeply set eyes give them a peculiarly sinister expression, and with their enormous, savage looking jaws and huge feet, armed with long, sharp claws, they look as though they in an instant might tear one to bits.
George—Gentola̤, come here. See these cubs, they are not at all repulsive in appearance.
Gentola—Oh, the queer looking little creatures. How soft and pretty their brown hair is. It seems a pity that they must grow to be such big, savage, shaggy haired, ugly animals as are their parents.
De L'Ester—In appearance and characteristics these animals are enough like our polar bears to claim close kinship with them. They are hibernating animals, as are some others of Ento, but their present environments are not conducive to that habit, and it is growing less and less marked. If your curiosity is satisfied we will look elsewhere. Our dear friend Ha̤-Moûfih's visit with us will be so brief that we must take advantage of its every moment.
Ha-Moufih—Friends, I regret that I can remain with you for only a limited time. I, Gentola̤, am in our Spirit World a teacher of natural history, but for a purpose have been assigned for this duty which affords me much pleasure. On my return to my pupils we will visit and investigate a planet on which De L'Ester was once re-embodied. Where is it? In the constellation known to you as the Great Dipper. The planet is in the angle between the handle and the cup. No, neither these friends nor I are sufficiently progressed to journey beyond certain limits. Yes, it is a great pleasure to visit other planets with my pupils who like myself ever are eager to observe, to compare or to demonstrate and then to return to our own place to dear friends, and to further study. Because of my limited stay with this Band you have been turned aside from observation of the Comina̤ daa̤ (class rooms), but later that will be resumed.
You have seen Bomûz himmû, one of the largest of the A-Mûistaa̤ (anthropoids). Now you will see one of the most remarkable members of the A-Mûista̤ family of this or of any planet we have visited. We desire that you shall describe it.
Gentola—Stretched along on a thick limb of a low, wide spreading tree is a creature so very human in appearance as to be unpleasant to look at, at least it is to me. It is as tall almost as am I, and that is five and a half feet. Its body, hands and feet are extremely like those of a human; were its head equally so I should feel rather abashed to be standing here staring at the sleeping creature. Its arms clasping the limb on which it lies, are quite shapely, its legs less so. Now it opens its large, expressive eyes, raises its head and evidently is observing us. Its head, in proportion to its body, is rather small, the forehead narrow, low and retreating. Falling over its forehead and eyes is a white, silky fringe, which is in strong contrast with its very dark gray covering of short, coarse hair. To me its oddest feature is its long, white beard, falling over its breast. As George approaches it it grows alarmed and now it scrambles feet foremost to the ground, and on its hands and feet rushes away in long leaps. Really, it is so like a human that it is revolting.
Ha-Moufih—Kyn-nûyna̤o (tree dweller) is what the Entoans name this species of anthropoid. Structurally this tailless animal is very like the earlier human forms of young planets. Its most marked unlikeness to them is in its head and face. There, ages ago, as is evinced in fossil remains, development came to a conclusion.
At no great distance from Indoloisa̤'s western shore its waters encompass an island of considerable area, which is clothed with gigantic trees and luxuriant vegetation. This island is inhabited by a peculiar people who for many centuries have led most peaceful, uneventful, secluded lives. For the most part their priests are their teachers, not only of religion, but of such educational branches as are not sufficiently advanced to come within courses of instruction of educational institutions. The island is very salubrious and so prolific of grains, fruits and fine woods, that air and water transportation are in constant demand for carrying to other parts these and other products. In the interior of the island the kyn-nûyna̤o find their habitations in the gigantic bûda̤s tree tops, where their young are born and reared with watchful care, their human neighbors regarding them with a sort of veneration. Never wilfully are their homes disturbed, and only by order of the supreme authorities is any one permitted to capture and remove one or more of the creatures. Then it is done under protest of the islanders, who consider them their especial possession. They do not breed in or long survive captivity, yet when placed anywhere away from the island they never attempt to escape.
Darwin, your great naturalist and my friend, pronounces the kyn-nûyna̤o a marvel of structural formation, but like myself, he considers the line of demarcation between them and the human as being sharply and unmistakably defined.
In this Acclinum are representatives of all the existing animals of Ento, but for lack of time we can only glance at some of them as we pass along. Those small animals racing across the sward and through the branches of the trees are of the A-Mûista̤ family, and in some localities they so multiply as to become pests. They are very cunning creatures who are given to forming themselves into multitudinous bands, and with a unanimity denoting an understanding of the situation, they swoop down on fields of grains and fruits, eating their fill and deftly carrying off all that their hands will hold. Yonder are two of the little creatures engaged in conversation. One chatters and gesticulates, the other emits some faint, listless sounds. Now the chatterer grows excited and angry, and the other shows its sharp, white teeth and breaks away a little, followed by the aggressor, who strikes out with one hand, now with the other, dodging return blows as it scrambles to the ground followed by the other, and now they are joined by a number of their friends and foes, who are all scratching, screaming, biting and altogether behaving in a most unruly manner.
Gentola—Certainly they are very amusing, droll looking little animals. Their round, upright ears, small, round heads and impish faces give them the appearance of aged dwarfs. See how they wrap their long tails around the tree branches and swing to and fro like so many pendulums. Yes, George, I should like one for a pet, and really it seems strange that I cannot carry anything back to Earth. This body of mine appears to be as substantial as my physical body, and often I forget that I am millions of miles away from it.
George—After you shall have again become a fully freed Spirit you soon will lose all sense of having possessed a physical body, from which, as you are aware, your spiritualized soul body differs only in being composed of more sublimated substance.
Ha-Moufih—Pardon my interrupting you, but we must attend to more commonplace matters. Here is an animal nearly allied to bomûz and bomûza. One of the peculiarities of this species is that always they build their homes near fresh water in which they delight to pass much of their time. They are known as the frilvodii (housekeepers) from the fact that their habitations in the loftiest trees are constructed on a special plan and are kept with much neatness. Observe how this one picks up particles from the floor, thrusting them outward through the bars of his cage. He is a much handsomer animal than is bomûz and the expression of his eyes is remarkably amiable and intelligent. A keeper is entering the cage and frilvodii rushes at him and embraces him, rubs his face against the man's breast, emitting soft, plaintive murmurings suggestive of pleasure and affection. Now he discovers something in the keeper's hand and playfully but earnestly wrestles for its possession, the keeper tantalizingly holding it out of his reach. Frilvodii is a cunning fellow and while he pettishly goes into a corner of the cage and covers his face with his hands he peers between his long fingers at the amused keeper who shows him a luscious scarlet etza̤ (a sweet, pulpy fruit resembling an orange), coaxingly entreating him to come for it. Finding his blandishments of no avail the keeper tosses to him the fruit which he deftly catches in his hands and proceeds to eat it with evident satisfaction and much daintiness.
During my early wanderings I captured a young male of this species and sent him to my parents, who made much of him and he grew to be a general favorite. His intelligence and affection were indeed remarkable and he was permitted to roam at will through our residence and grounds, playing with children, who taught him to carry things and to accompany them in their rambles and frolics. What most delighted the creature was to be arrayed in garments such as the children wore. On such occasions his pride and satisfaction knew no bounds. Once, while decked out in some cast-off finery something angered him and in his fury he rolled over and over in a pool of water, and when he came to his senses he found himself very much bedraggled and the children laughing in derision at his forlorn appearance. Seeming to realize his ludicrous plight, he tore off every shred of his garments and with an air of intense mortification, fled to his own domicile. For some time he refused to be adorned, but finally his vanity got the better of his ill humor and again he strutted about decked in gorgeous habiliments. Poor Dēho; a host of his friends sincerely mourned over his unlooked for, his untimely end. Climbing to the topmost branches of a lofty tree for fruit he attempted to carry some down to the waiting children, lost his footing and falling to the ground was instantly killed.
Gentola—It seems to me that I have seen an animal like this, but I do not recall when or where.
De L'Ester—We have been expecting you to see the resemblance between this living creature and his metallic representative in the mansion we looked through during an early visit to Ento.
Gentola—Ah, I now remember.
Ha-Moufih—We now will proceed to the Rinvoh (aquarium) where, under a wire-covered space you will see some creatures which ever are the marvel of Ento's naturalists and ornithologists. The habitat of the progenitors of these singular birds, perhaps I should say water fowl, now so serenely floating on the bosom of the little lake, is far westward of Indoloisa̤, and is a considerable body of salt water which, until quite recently, was so out of the route of general travel as to be little known to modern Entoans. Yes, once the entire region between it and Indoloisa̤ was densely populated, but during many centuries preceding my birth it, like other unirrigated equatorial regions, was too arid for occupation and few cared to traverse its wastes.
The wings of those great creatures have an expanse of from twelve to fourteen feet, which, with the broad, strong membrane connecting wings with thighs affords a tremendous lifting power, enabling them to rise with marvellous velocity to a great height. When in flight their long tail feathers spread like a huge fan, not only augmenting the rapidity of their flight but steadying it. Observe their feline heads, which, like their short, thick necks, are covered with feathers so minute as to resemble hair. Instead of bills they have protuberant mouths lined with a bony structure in which are embedded short, sharp teeth with which they can, as once I learned to my cost, inflict severe injury, though really they are of a gentle nature, as is evinced in their large, mild, fearless, inquiring eyes.
When fully grown, from tip of mouth to tip of tail, they are about eight feet long. Their great plumed wings and tails and their heads so feline in form and appearance suggest the idea of composite creatures, partaking of the characteristics of both bird and animal, and when in flight they present an imposing but most uncanny appearance. Only the males have mottled plumage; the females uniformly are of a dull brown color.
As I have stated, west of Indoloisa̤ is an extensive region which, for many centuries, has been a desert waste, which has been shunned and left to the forces of the hot winds, ever blowing its loose sands in blinding, stifling clouds over its levelled surface. Recently air transports passed over this forbidding waste, but at the time of which I shall speak, practically it was nearly an unknown land. Prior to the death of my parents I, with some scientific friends, some students and attendants, were, for the purpose of ascertaining the feasibility of reclaiming some portions of the waste lands, exploring the desert, which, to our inquiring minds, offered many attractions. Leisurely we had journeyed from southward to northward, but we were very weary, as were our milch and burthen bearing animals, who were panting from fatigue and the excessive heat. Overhead the azure sky was like a great canopy in which the glowing sun with slanting beams gave promise of the longed for coolness of the approaching evening. Suddenly, high overhead appeared a large, shadowy form, flying with exceeding swiftness. As it flew farther away our gaze followed it with eager curiosity, for in our indistinct view of it we recognized that it was a bird quite unknown to us. When it had almost disappeared from our view it turned about and with incredible velocity came toward us, curiosity seemingly impelling it to a closer scrutiny of our party. When nearly overhead, in ever narrowing circles it dropped lower and lower until it was no more than two hundred feet or so above us. A strange bird, cried some. A winged animal, cried others. A monster, was the final verdict of all. As it gazed at us curiously and apparently without apprehension, we, agape, stood as though spellbound. With much astonishment we observed that apparently it had become motionless above us, and we distinctly heard a humming sound with rising and falling inflections which we supposed were vocal notes, but later we learned that the sounds were occasioned by the rapid vibrations of a peculiar wing attachment. For a short time the creature remained intently regarding us, then swiftly, in ever widening circles, it rose to a great height and again flew westward.
With the enthusiasm of one whose bent of mind mainly is in one direction I at once resolved to search for the habitat of our strange visitor. Of the islands of Indoloisa̤'s waters and of its boundaries southward and northward we possessed accurate knowledge. With its immediate western shore lands we also were acquainted, but of the desert extending far westward we knew comparatively little. After counselling together we decided to proceed northward until we should reach an irrigated region, where we would rest, supply ourselves with food and possibly with some information relating to our strange visitor. Four days' travel brought us to the northern limit of the desert and to a pastoral people inhabiting the irrigated productive lands extending along its arid border. From them we learned that only very recently had any one beheld the great birds, whose lofty flight precluded more than an indistinct view of them. That it was thought that they made their home near Loisa̤ Rûmēsa̤ (Rûmēsa̤, a goddess), which with burthen bearing animals we might reach in about six days. That Loisa̤ Rûmēsa̤ was a body of fresh water we knew and that its northern shore was waste and uninhabited we also knew, so, with some misgiving, but with determination to succeed in our quest we left our hospitable entertainers and travelled westward along the northern limit of the desert, gathering such information as might serve our purpose of a coming time. So impatient were we to reach Loisa̤ Rûmēsa̤ that we travelled early and late and the afternoon of the sixth day brought us to its northern shore, where its sparkling waters sharply indent the sandy waste.
It is a matter of regret to your friends, and I doubt not to yourself, that an attempt to impress upon your memory anything of a technical nature immediately arouses your cautiousness and renders you so positive as to be unreceptive. No, I shall not vex you by attempting to urge you to give the latitude and longitude of localities.
Gentola—Do not, please, for I so fear mistakes that I cannot risk making them. I do indeed regret that I possess such an inconvenient mental trait, for I have found it so much in my own way that I do not find fault with my Spirit friends for objecting to it.
George—Never mind, Gentola̤, we are glad enough to take you as you are and thankful that you are no more objectionable.
Ha-Moufih—You understand George's badinage, and you also understand that I do not mean to chide you. On the contrary I am surprised and delighted with your docile and matter-of-fact manner of accommodating yourself to an experience that well might overwhelm you.
Loisa̤ Rûmēsa̤ is about one hundred and forty miles long and nearly one-third as wide. On the west its waters wash the base of a low, picturesque mountain range named Diafa̤-avina̤ (many hued), which, from northward to southward extends the entire length of the lake, thence curving eastward it grades itself into inconsiderable hills, which at length are lost in an irrigated fertile plain. Your friends contemplate showing you Loisa̤ Rûmēsa̤, but I shall not have the pleasure of accompanying you.
For seven days we remained on its northern shore where nearby was some herbage for our animals, and constantly we were on the lookout for the great birds. Each succeeding day brought us only disappointment, yet did not lessen our ardor or determination to find them. Then, slowly, for three days we journeyed along the eastern shore when again we encamped amid a broken, fertile space of considerable extent. Here we found herbage and wild fruits in abundance, and such numbers and variety of birds that the air was vocal with their notes. Water fowls, too, of various kinds made of the rocky locality a breeding ground and the contents of their nests afforded a welcome addition to our food supply.
During out first day in our new camp my eyes continually scanned the sky and the surface of the lake but the sun disappeared beyond the mountain, and the shadows of night, lighted by Entola̤ and Ementola̤ (Ento's moons) brooded over the quiet water of Loisa̤ Rûmēsa̤. Scarcely had twilight deepened into darkness when our ears were assailed by murmuring musical sounds interspersed with harsh grating cries and sharp hisses, and by the dim moon light we perceived huge, shadowy forms, slowly descending to the quiet surface of the lake where they remained silent and apparently motionless. The night waned, and earliest dawn illuminated a scene so weirdly strange that our hearts beat with unwonted celerity. High up in the quiet air, so high, indeed that they appeared like mere shadows, ten of the great birds with wide-spreading wings sailed in circles or were as motionless as the stars, which yet were shining dimly. So startling, so unusual was the spectacle that our attendants were quite alarmed; even our animals grew restless, crowding together in evident terror. As dawn brightened into day and the sun arose above the horizon the creatures slowly and with the same peculiar humming sound, descended to the bosom of the lake where, for a time, they were rocked by the undulating waves, then, in a body, they arose to a great height and flew westward. During fourteen days they came at nightfall and in the morning disappeared, always in the same direction from which we inferred that elsewhere, while the females were brooding or rearing their young the male birds made of the shallow waters of the eastern shore of Rûmēsa̤, a night resort; so, patiently we awaited developments. So fearless were the creatures that frequently they swam ashore, walking leisurely along its margin and eyeing us with amusing curiosity, but when we attempted to approach them they hissed sharply, and, stepping into the water, swam away. We might have killed or captured the great fearless creatures, but such an ignominious act was far from our thoughts. It seemed little less than a crime to disturb their serene confidence in their security, so while we closely observed their habits we were careful to neither molest or alarm them. At nightfall of the fifteenth day among the creatures, for a time there was an unusual commotion, followed by profound stillness. At earliest dawn there was the usual rush of wings and upward flight of shadowy forms, and when the light grew strong enough to see objects clearly the sight that greeted our eyes filled us with amazed delight. Leisurely moving on the bosom of the lake were seven great birds of a dull brown color and of the same species as those sailing overhead. Each female was accompanied by one or two young birds about as large as a—Ah, De L'Ester, to what shall I compare them? A duck? What a droll word. Later we learned that on the mountainous, western shore of Loisa̤ Rûmēsa̤ the young had come into existence from whence on the broad backs of their mothers, who now solicitously were caring for them, they had been borne hither. At once we set about arranging for the conveyance of some of the young to Camarissa̤. As we were provided with water tight receptacles in which to place them, it only remained for us to learn how the little creatures were nourished. This we quickly observed was accomplished through their mothers feeding them small fishes, or larger ones torn in bits by their strong teeth and webbed talons.
All things being in readiness we launched our portable boat, and easily captured three pairs of the pretty struggling creatures. To our surprise the parents offered but slight opposition, and quietly followed their progeny quite to the shore, then turned and swam away.
Early in the dawn of the following day we began our return journey to Camarissa̤. That we might remain within easy reach of fresh water and live fishes we travelled southward along the eastern shore of the lake. Five days brought us to its southern extremity, and at the close of two days' further travel in a southeasterly direction, we arrived at an air transport and Tuzamo Station, and quickly thereafter we and our captives were in Camarissa̤. Not all of them, however, for two had succumbed to the vicissitudes of the journey.
This great wire-covered compartment afforded the survivors conditions suited to their requirements, and although the young creatures were very delicate, one male and two females survived, and during after years their offspring so increased in numbers that several pairs have been presented to other Rinvohs. They are known as gariffo tsûvon (bird of the cloudgod, Tsûvon). No, they are neither long lived or of a migratory habit, and previous to our unlooked for discovery of them they were thought to be an extinct species, and strangely enough, within a few years afterward, not one in a wild state survived.
De L'Ester—Gentola̤, again we are holding you too long, and at once must return you to Earth. It might be wise to defer for a few days your next visit to Ento, but as Ha̤-Moûfih soon must leave us, we greatly desire that you shall be with us to-morrow. If we find you unequal to the journey, we will not risk your safety. Previous to coming to you we propose that Ha̤-Moûfih shall attempt a short visit to Earth, so we will not be with you until two o'clock P.M. Now, George and Inez will convey you to your home where you must rest, rest, rest, and where ministering loving ones will strengthen you.
Info oovistû.
IN THE GALARESA.
De L'Ester—Comment vous portez vous, Madame Gentola̤. Ha̤-Moûfih is with us and awaits your greeting.
Gentola—Ento friend, I cannot find words with which to express my surprise and pleasure that you are here.
Ha-Moufih—Your kindly welcome assures me that you do not consider my presence an intrusion. Yes, since passing to our Spirit World I have visited many Planets, inhabited, or, as yet, uninhabited by humans, but, until now, neither my inclinations or duties have brought me to Earth. Now that I have had a cursory view of the natural divisions of your planet, of its scenery, its peoples and the expressions of their spiritual and intellectual growth, I perceive that in their characteristics the Entoans and Earthians are very much alike. Upon visiting planets other than their own, spirits of a scientific turn experience great surprise at the striking resemblances existing between all planets approaching a like degree of evolvement. Really, bulk, density and atmospheric conditions constitute the most noticeable differences. Yes, through our own observation and that of Spirits far more exalted than are we, we are convinced that everywhere the human, the God man, is expressed in the same form. I too regret that for the present I can devote no more time to observation of all that pertains to Earth, but, like the swiftly flowing waters of a stream, the days glide by, and ere many years shall have elapsed you again will be a freed spirit, and then we both may become better acquainted with your Earth-World, of which you know comparatively little. But I detain you, and De L'Ester grows impatient to be off. With your and George's permission, I will assist you.
Yes, the view is indeed grand. It is well that mortals have no conception of what awaits those who have fulfilled the laws of their being, otherwise their physical existence would be unbearable. I have been told that you greatly regret your inability to remember all that occurs during your absence from your physical body. Were it possible for you to fully retain such memories you would become unfitted for the performance of the duties of your daily life. I also have been informed of the vicissitudes of your present embodiment. Of how you have combated seen and unseen difficulties. Of what your spirit friends have had to overcome in turning aside your aspirations in directions that would have unfitted you for this mission for which you were brought into the mortal plane. Unwittingly you have been building better than you have dreamed of. Sometimes in joy, sometimes in sorrow, yet ever you have been building the conditions of a higher, a more comprehensive existence.
Yes, we near our destination and our friends have preceded us to the Rinvoh. Ah, how the memories of this scene hold me as by the links of an unbroken chain. So intimately was my mortal existence connected with all relating to this great Galarēsa̤ that, as I gaze upon the stately structure adorned by most artistic statues, beautiful fountains, groups of towering Bûdas trees, an endless variety of blooming plants, the Acclinum (zoölogical department), the Rinvoh (aquarium) and other admirable features, all forming a most comprehensive educational system, memory recalls bygone years when I believed, as all Entoans still believe, that the present existence was all of life and that to fulfill to the utmost all righteous obligations and duties should be the chief pleasure of the life graciously bestowed upon His children by Andûmana̤, the All Wise, the Loving Creator of all things. This rule of righteous living requires no amendment; but, alas, obligations and duties fulfilled do not fill the measure of human happiness; one also must possess assurance of a to-morrow with all its possibilities. The present, which offers no promise of a joyous to-morrow, is as a night with no promise of the dawn; and thus it is with the Entoans, who cherish neither expectation nor hope of the joyous to-morrow of continuous existence. That they may deserve the favor of Andûmana̤ and His all Seeing Messengers their every thought and act is in accordance with the teachings of the Holy Writings which, indeed, contain many exalted precepts, but no intimation of continuous existence.
De L'Ester, you are most patient in your endeavor to convey to Gentola̤ a sense of what I wish she might directly understand. I shall regret if I may weary both you and her.
De L'Ester—Be assured that we are interested, not wearied, auditors. Gentola̤ says that she will look forward to the time when she will be free to journey with you from world to world and, like you, be able to retain memories of all the wonders of Spirit existence.
Ha-Moufih—Knowing that the desire will bring its fruition—its joyous to-morrow—we contentedly will await its certain coming.
We now will join our waiting friends. Ah, George, I see that you are observing an old acquaintance of mine, but I doubt if he will inspire in you a spirit of poesy. Is he not a pompous, self-conceited looking for creature? Gentola̤, you will kindly attempt a description of this impersonation of arrogance.
Gentola—I fear that my ability is inadequate to a description of the creature. He is nearly twice as large as an ostrich and his legs are so long and stout that he appears to be walking on tall stilts. His feet are webbed and of surprising length and breadth, as well they need be to support such a huge body. In proportion to his size his head is rather small. It abruptly rounds up from his long and very broad bill, and is surmounted by a large tuft of beautiful, snowy, drooping feathers. His neck is extremely long, slender and very erect and, like his body, is covered with an iridescent admixture of black, green, purple and bronze plumage. His wing and tail feathers are long, abundant and, like his plumed crest, snow white. As for his large, staring eyes, they are the coldest, haughtiest, disdainfulest eyes I ever have beheld. As he majestically struts away he is the impersonation of an aristocratic, an ineffable swell. Really, his airs are most amusing, and certainly he is a very handsome bird.
Ha-Moufih—So he is, and, notwithstanding the cold, supercilious expression of his eyes, he has a not unamiable disposition, though I must say that his virtues are of a rather negative character.
I caught him in his very early youth and he is the sole survivor of four of his kind. When I brought him here from his semi-tropical home, I did not anticipate that he would outlive me, but he has and looks as though he may survive for years to come.
This species of bird is known as Vûlna̤-kymos (crowned majesty), and they are found in but two localities. Only when desired for some Rinvoh do the authorities now permit them to be disturbed. In habit they are semi-aquatic, and they build their nests on the margin of bodies of fresh water. Two years previous to my passing to our spirit world a strong desire for exploration overcame me and, with a scientific friend, some attendants and necessary supplies, we took passage on an air transport to a station on nearly the further side of Ento, but in a latitude approaching the Temperate zone. There we procured some burthen bearing animals and in an aimless fashion began a journey which would terminate when my appetite for wandering should become satiated. The charm of feeling myself free from cares, which never were to my liking, delighted me and for nearly two days we leisurely wandered along the shore of a considerable fresh water lake known as Loisa̤ a̤ lûtyēnos (lake of rushes), so shallow, so limpid, that when rowing in our portable boat, we plainly saw fishes, large and small, darting hither and thither through its greatest depths, which were thickly grown with rushes, rodels and other aquatic plants. Along the shore large trees and a close undergrowth of shrubs rendered our progress rather tedious, but as we were in no haste we and our animals enjoyed the shade and coolness of the forest, which like a wall of living verdure, encompassed the lake. Toward evening of the third day we came upon a small, cleared place on the margin of the lake and an unexpected scene which quite upset our gravity. In the shallow water of the shore line amid a luxuriant growth of grasses, rushes and weeds, was a huge nest built of sticks, stones, grasses and clay and, with a leg on either side, the body of a large and consequential looking bird rested on its summit. Evidently he was on guard duty and did not enjoy it. His attitude and preoccupied manner were sufficiently droll to cause us to burst into laughter. The unusual sound alarmed him, but courageous and faithful to his charge he stanchly remained on the nest, loudly calling to his mate who, at a distance, was feeding among the rank growths of the shallows. Instantly, with shrill cries and hisses, half flying, half running, she rushed to the defense of her possessions. Our attendants drew further away, but that we might observe the creatures, my friend and I secreted ourselves amid the underbrush. The two birds held a hurried consultation; then the female shaking her beautiful plumage dry, with one leg on either side of the nest brooded over its contents while the male bird in stately but watchful fashion promenaded in the margin of the lake, now and anon unbending his dignity that he might snatch from the water some unwary fish or other creature.
I was not unacquainted with this species of water fowl, but at that time our Rinvoh did not possess them, and as then there were no restrictions against our doing so we resolved to await the appearance of the young brood which we would transport to Camarissa̤. The brooding time being well advanced, on the morning of the third day of our waiting the birds exhibited much excitement, shaking themselves and uttering low cries, while, gazing into the nest from whence came a sound of continuous chirping. The parent birds were most devoted in their attention to their young; one or the other continually bringing them food and not for a moment were they left alone. On the morning of the third day of their advent, with her bill the mother lifted them one by one from the nest, dropping six downy little beauties into the shallow water, where they paddled about in apparent enjoyment. At sunset she carefully deposited them in the nest, hovering over them while her mate quietly, but alertly, watched by her side.
The young birds grew prodigiously and in a few days were able to care for themselves and were no longer returned to the nest, but, with the parent birds rested in the margin of the lake. When old enough to be removed with safety, at nightfall I cautiously approached them and with a large net captured the entire brood. The frightened parents fled away in the darkness but soon they returned and finding their young gone their cries of distress resounded through the night. Their grief so appealed to my sensibilities that in the morning I returned to them two of the captives, over whom there was great rejoicing. In a commodious water receptacle the four young birds were conveyed to Camarissa̤ and placed in this Rinvoh. Later on I gave to the Rinvoh of Dao a pair of them. The mate of this lonely widower lived until three years ago, and now her prepared body graces a space in the Syffondû.
The incidents I have been relating may appear to you somewhat trivial; they are intended to serve the purpose of acquainting you with certain life forms and conditions of Ento, thus enabling you to draw comparisons between what may come under your notice on this planet and such forms and conditions as you may have knowledge of on your own. After a glance at the creatures occupying compartments on the further side I shall regretfully leave you. Here are shell covered reptiles which Agassiz says are very like some of your salt water reptiles. This unhandsome creature, sluggishly lying in the shallow water of its capacious tank, is nearly one-third as broad as it is long, and its length is quite twenty feet. The large brown and white scales covering its body are erectile, as are the smaller ones on its long, slender neck to which its long, narrow head and vicious looking eyes give a serpentlike appearance. Now, as it moves into deeper water, one sees the dull orange color of its belly. Its tail, with which it partly propels itself through the water, opens and closes like a folding fan; see how it curves under, then is projected outward with much force, impelling the creature onward. You perceive that in swimming it also uses its short, sinewy legs and webbed feet. It is strictly a water reptile, never venturing into shallower water than that of the tank. It is known as Pylo-akēdon (scaly armored), and is a species of reptile nearly extinct.
Here are other water creatures which, in structure and form, are said to closely resemble life forms of Earth. On other planets I have seen very similar forms.
Of course only a limited number of Ento's various aquatic creatures find homes in the different compartments of this Rinvoh, but they represent both the rarest and the commonest species. The collections of the Acclinum and Syffondû? (museum) are very comprehensive, the latter containing a representation of life forms of the remote past and of more modern times. In the Acclinum the collection of fossils is very curious, but as you will be shown all that may be considered necessary for the purpose in view, I need not particularize.
Gentola̤, the moment has arrived when, for the present, I must leave you and these friends. It would delight me could I remain with you and them until the consummation of this mission, but it cannot be. May the Divine Spirit of all that is unfold in us a fuller consciousness that only through earnest endeavor can we attain to higher Spiritual planes of being. Emanos, Info oovistû.
De L'Ester—We now will proceed to the arbor where a learned Ento spirit, Zenesta̤ Ha̤o, will join us. He is a kinsman of Inidora̤ and Genessano, and once was a teacher of languages in this Galarēsa̤, but as we have requested him to relate to you some of his personal history I shall not further anticipate what, I doubt not, will interest you. Ah, he awaits us. Loha̤û loha̤û, Zenesta̤. You are most welcome and I most happy in making known to you one whom you have expressed a desire to meet.
Gentola—Sir, I trust that I may not be so unfortunate as to cause you to regret your desire.
Zenesta Hao—Long have we of our Spirit World heard of you as of one who, in the fullness of time, would aid in conveying to the Entoans an assurance of continuous existence. I offer to you the homage due to one who lovingly yields time, strength and an indulgence of personal aims for the welfare of others, and may the time quickly arrive when, through this mission, the darkness of certain conditions may be dispelled from the minds of the children of Ento. You have been informed of their pitiable despair which ever grows more unbearable; it is the logical, natural result of the advanced spirituality of the masses, in whom every sense and emotion have become exalted. In them the love element is so spiritualized that when death takes from them their dearest ones they do not mourn as do those of grosser natures. They reach after them with a longing, agonizing, persistent, hopeless grief, only conceivable by those whose Being is on an exalted Spiritual and intellectual plane.
I know not your language perfectly, but when I may find myself at a loss these dear friends will supply my needs. I am here, not only through my own desire, but at the request of this Band, who believe that I may serve a certain beneficent purpose. During many years of my mortal existence I was a Professor of Languages in this Galarēsa̤; thus I am as a link connecting the past with the present and, if I may add to the interest of your experiences and of this mission, I also will add to my own happiness. Friends, you will lead the way, and Gentola̤ and I will follow.
Ah, how memory recalls the years passed in this Galarēsa̤. Years so full of mingled joys and sorrows. Certainly, if my mortal experiences may seem of value to you, I shall be greatly pleased. In my early youth I came here as a student, my mind filled with eager, glowing anticipations, and here I remained until I was fitted to graduate with honor to myself and credit to those whose patient labors and excellent ability had won my loving reverence and lasting regard. Following my graduation I was offered the distinction of a professorship in the department of ancient and modern languages; I accepted the honor and entered upon a career which terminated only when mortal existence gave way to that which was a step higher on the ever ascending rounds of evolution. Four years elapsed and I had won some renown as an instructor and what, to me, was my heart's dearest desire—the love of the woman whom I adored and who was, through the years of our wedded life, the heart of my heart. Children as comely and as sweet as rodel buds came to us, but ever as their mother and I with fond solicitude watched these buds maturing and bursting into bloom, we looked into each other's eyes and saw sombre shadows lurking there. Intelligent, generous hearted, our children grew to maturity. Our sons were all that our fond hearts could desire. Our daughters were as lovable and as lovely as their mother. I could desire for them no greater excellence. I then was in the full vigor of manhood, my wife in the full maturity of comeliness and of many virtues. Our children were growing learned and accomplished in such directions as their abilities and inclinations led them. No perceptible danger threatened us or them. No cloud of evil portent rose above the horizon of our sky, yet ever in our minds and hearts the shadows lurked, for we knew, we well knew, that ever unseen an implacable foe drew nearer, nearer, and that inevitably, one by one, we must pass into the silence. We who shared each joy or sorrow, we who so loved that when apart time was robbed of half its value. Ah, me! Ere long a fatal hour arrived and now after the lapse of years and the inexpressible happiness that has come to us, I find myself shrinking from the memory of it.
One day a party of youths went pleasuring on Indoloisa̤'s treacherous water and our three sons were with them. With the heedlessness of youth they permitted the wind to waft their boat far out on its restless bosom. Suddenly the wind became violent, the boat was capsized, then engulfed in the tempestuous waves and ere assistance reached them nearly all of the party were drowned. Two of them were our sons Liefton and Clermond. A year later our remaining son, Faladon, lost his life in a vain endeavor to save the life of a comrade who, recklessly leaning far over the guard of a rising air transport, lost his balance and Faladon, who stood near at hand, attempted to seize him, but the sudden strain was greater than his strength, and both he and his friend were dashed to death. These repeated disasters were more than my dear wife could endure, and within a year her urned ashes were placed beside those of our three sons.
In my heart was desolation and anguish unspeakable, but, for the sake of our dear daughters, I strove to cheerfully bear my awful burthen of sorrow and to, as far as possible, brighten the darkness which overshadowed their young lives. They would not marry and we three bereft ones walked as in one pathway, and thus I reached a period of age equal to seventy of your years. Then, as though death again remembered us, our youngest daughter was stricken with a fatal illness and ere we reckoned it serious the breath of her life had ceased. Our eldest and last child survived until I had aged to ninety-two years; then, with scarcely more than a sigh, her worn heart ceased to beat and I was left alone—aged, sorrow stricken and without desire for a continuance of a life which no longer held for me either charm or hope. Mechanically I fulfilled the duties of a position which had brought me the consideration of many worthier than myself, but, alas, no power could bring back my dear dead or give me peace. Laden with a heavy burthen of sorrow, the years passed tardily, and among a youthful generation whose tastes, occupations and aims had quite outgrown my own, I walked almost alone. The friends of my youth and of later years had passed into the silence, or had sought other lands as dwelling places, and I no longer cared for new friends. In my home there were those who ever were kindly attentive to my simple wants, but my utter loneliness no one could alleviate. In the midst of a multitude I was as one lost, as one whom death had forgotten and at last I longed for oblivion.
Ninety-eight years brought me to a hot, languorous day, and the humid air was laden with the fragrance of flowers, glowing amid the surrounding greenery, or in riotous luxuriance, climbing over walls, trellises and windows. I had come from the Galarēsa̤, and ere entering my home I, for a little, gazed on the quiet, lovely scene. Presently a sense of drowsiness stole over me and I entered my residence and laid down to rest, perchance to sleep. For a moment I experienced a peculiar sensation; then suddenly I slept and as suddenly awakened to perceive standing near me with a smile on her lips, a wondrously beautiful woman, whose face and form seemed strangely familiar. In great surprise and unaccountable awe I gazed upon her; then, breathlessly, I cried, "Who art thou, oh vision of a dead past? Art thou a Goddess in the guise of my beloved, my lost Armēna̤? Speak, I implore thee, ere I die of anguish." Smilingly she drew nearer to me. Gently she stooped and clasped me in her arms. Tenderly she murmured, "Zenesta̤, knowest thou not Armēna̤, thy wife, the mother of our children, who wait nearby to greet and embrace thee? My beloved, thou didst but sleep a moment, to awaken and find thy dearest ones. Nay, shrink not from me; I am not dead and thou dost not dream," she said. "Here are our children who will bear thee hence to the world of living ones, where is neither death or sorrowful separations, but where, with us, thou shalt learn of the immortality of the life essence and of joys beyond aught thou hast conception of." The joy and wonder of this was so great that I seemed to swoon, and, when again consciousness came to my senses I found myself in a beautiful home, surrounded by many dear ones and friends of my youth and later years, who welcomed me to the world of living ones. And wonder of marvellous wonders, my aged body had fallen away from me and I stood amid our three stately sons as young as were they. As I looked into the faces of those whom I had thought dead and forever gone into the Silence, I could not utter one word. My wife and our beauteous daughters, all with their dear arms about me, whispered words of explanation and of assurance that I did not dream. Then our dear girls, Armēna̤ and Irmian, gathered loveliest flowers and showered them over me and their mother. They led me through the beautiful white structure they said was our home and still, while countless questions surged through my mind, I was so overwhelmed by contending emotions that I only could mutely turn from one to another. Finally I was made to comprehend the wondrous, unlooked for change which had come to me while I slept. Birth, not death, having opened the gateway of the new phase of life, gladly, reverently, I took up the threads of the tangled web and woof of a past condition, and gladly, reverently, in an existence of illimitable opportunities, I have striven to weave a fabric adorned with loving thoughts, loving words, and loving service.
I beg your indulgence for this lengthy reminiscence of a bygone time.
Gentola—Sir, you owe me no apology for your relation of that which has more than interested me. Through death I, too, have lost many dear ones, and only that I know that we shall meet again, I should be in as deep despair as were you, as are the peoples of Ento. Your sad recital has added to my desire to lend my poor aid toward bringing to your peoples the priceless knowledge of continuous existence. May I ask how long you have been in your spirit world?
Zenesta Hao—According to your computation of time, I passed from Ento's physical realm nearly eighty years ago. Yes, since then, but not very recently, I have visited Ento, but only when duty has impelled me to do so. You may know that on entering the atmosphere, or aura surrounding the scenes of their mortal existence, Spirits experience mortal sensations, and unless duty requires, or attractions are exceedingly powerful, spirits progressed beyond the first, or physical sphere, do not care to undergo the discomfort of return.
Somewhat to my regret it has not fallen within my sphere of duties to be engaged in the work of this mission, but through my own desire and the solicitations of the members of this Band, for a time I shall be with you and them. Rather recently I have become acquainted with some of these friends, but my first meeting with De L'Ester and Giordano Bruno occurred soon after I entered our Spirit World, which, of course, was previous to your present re-embodiment, but not previous to your having been chosen as a possible Instrument for the furtherance of this mission. You may have been informed that this is but one of many missions, for many purposes, in many worlds; that this one may prove successful it is necessary to use as an intermediary one still connected with the physical body. Yes, through our own experiences and those of spirits of other Planetary Spirit Worlds, we have learned that generally sensitives can be approached directly, but on Ento conditions are so positive that although spirits can aid in developing in those who are highly sensitive such phases as are most prominent, they cannot become directly en rapport with them, so cannot control them. Oh no, this is but one of many attempts to reveal to the Entoans the truth of continuous existence, but never before have conditions been so favorable as they now are. The culmination of certain events, which must exert a tremendous influence in assuring the success of this Mission, draws very near, and countless hosts of Ento's, Earth's and of other Spirit Worlds, watch the movement with deepest interest and ardent longing for the dawning of a glorious day for a people who long have lived and died in a hopeless faith.
Gentola—While I am deeply interested in their spiritual condition, I should like to know more of the social condition of the Entoans.
Zenesta Hao—Within certain limits the government of Ento is absolute, and the Supreme Rulers never exercise a power exceeding these limits. Neither do they permit any infringement of the laws, which are simple, direct, forceful and just. In the Supreme Ruler is vested the privilege of appointing such Counsellors and other officials as may be necessary for the proper administration of laws enacted for the general welfare, and being the representative of such laws, it is his or her bounden duty to see to it that they shall be strictly observed. By the Entoans it is considered no more a duty than a privilege to be of one mind in their obedience to both civil and religious enactments.
Nominally, ever since the establishment of the national religion, the Supreme Rulers have been its chief representatives, but through the following centuries, gradually, an ever arrogant Priesthood assumed claims to certain prerogatives, which grew into such oppressive abuses that eventually the people, unable to longer endure, rebelled, and the priesthood were obliged to abolish the horrible rite of human sacrifice. Yes, this occurred during a rather recent century. Since then the Entoans have grown, or rather they have outgrown the rigidity of old beliefs, still they have but one religion. If at times certain restless minds have dared to question the statements of the Sacred Writings, or impiously have indulged in new and vain theories they have been silenced. Ever Ento's Supreme Rulers have set an example of entire obedience to the Priestly interpretation of the Sacred Writings, and as they have believed so have the people believed. Should Omanos Fûnha̤, Ento's present chief representative, arrive at a belief in a continuity of existence, generally, the Priesthood will oppose such a radical innovation, but with the tide in the minds and hearts of the people setting in that direction, they will be obliged to yield, indeed many of them will gladly yield, for Priests, like other people, love and sorrow.
Gentola—But how will so great a change of religious belief be received by the less enlightened peoples? May it not occasion strife, or even war?
Zenesta Hao—Oh, no. That is not possible. Ento's peoples are too highly evolved to indulge in violent recrimination, which inevitably must result in harm to all concerned. War is purely barbaric, and on Ento there are no really barbaric peoples. There are those who are somewhat primitive in their ideas and modes of living, but they are far too civilized to think of murdering their neighbors. Largely, such peoples are engaged in agricultural pursuits, and not being constantly in touch with the finest expressions of civilization, they, to a degree, lack its nicest distinctions of speech, manner, dress and so on, but innately they are just, truthful, generous and humane peoples, possessing the essential principles of true civilization.
Oh, yes, the Entoans are very human, and at times differences of opinion relating to commercial, social, scientific or other matters arise, but Governors and Advisory Councils of the various Provinces, being arbitrators of provincial affairs, such trifling difficulties are readily adjusted. It is an Ento axiom that "he who injures or condemns his neighbor injures and condemns himself." So universally is this axiom accepted that seldom is it disregarded.
Gentola—With deepest attention I have listened to what you have said, and I feel that I better understand not only the motive for but the conditions relating to this undertaking, which, through my increasing interest in all concerning it, renders it a little difficult for me to patiently await the unfolding of events.
De L'Ester—The unfolding of events soon will oblige us to further enlighten you as to our plans. Necessarily, we have been somewhat reticent so that gradually you might become prepared for your part in a drama upon which Spirit Worlds are anxiously gazing. Ere long you, with our entire Band, will repair to Dao, the capital of Ento, where dwells Omanos Fûnha̤, Osy Hûn, whose only child, Sēlona̤ Valloa̤, slowly but surely, is releasing herself from her physical body. The hour of her departure into Ento's Spirit Realms cannot long be deferred, then a united and supreme effort will be made to open the way for the incoming of the new revelation, but ere the arrival of that hour much must yet be accomplished.
A highly spiritualized man is Omanos Fûnha̤, who reverently obeys what he has been taught to regard as Andûmana̤'s Divine Law. Ento never has been favored with a Supreme Ruler of broader views, of kinder heart, or of a finer sense of justice. I believe that you are aware that translated into your language Osy Hûn is Supreme or Sovereign Ruler. Early in Omanos Fûnha̤'s wedded life his adored wife, Sēlona̤ Valloa̤, passed to our spirit world, leaving as his chiefest consolation an infant daughter who bears her mother's name. She is the original of the portrait you saw in the first dwelling you visited on Ento. Yes, the young girl reclining on a couch while Prince Dano stands near smiling on her. She has grown a most beautiful and admirable woman, but is as frail as the phantom-like blossoms of the roina̤ draping yonder marble statue. Her father idolizes the fair girl, and she returns his devotion with tenderest affection. Of late into his mind has stolen a chilling dread, for, despite all that his love can suggest or science can accomplish to increase her strength, she grows weaker and more fragile. She is, as you are aware, affianced to Prince Dano, and ere long he will be summoned to Dao, where his parents reside. Ere now this would have occurred, but Omanos Fûnha̤ shrinks from admitting to himself that Valloa̤ is in a perilous state. That gradually, but surely, she is being overshadowed by the invisible terror, the dread god Phra (death). Still he lays on the temple altar votive offerings, praying that the pitiful gods may restore her, and the days pass and the end draws near.
I tell you this, that you may to an extent understand the present situation at Dao.
In the adjoining studio is Prince Dano, and other art students. We will enter and observe them and their work. Dano, as he leans against a column, regarding a dainty piece of statuary, upon which evidently he has been working, wears an expression of care and preoccupation. Yonder is a group engaged in drawing from the nude, the model a lad as symmetrical, as beautiful as one of their fabled Gods. Further away other youths and maidens draw from still life, and here is a large class engaged in modelling heads and other objects from a plastic material, and beyond Dano, two girls and several youths are attempting to release from marble forms more or less attractive.
What a spacious studio, and each department so perfectly equipped. Those carved panels, separating the sky lights of the lofty ceiling, are of exquisite design and execution, and the arrangement of the shades and draperies is very admirable. The Drawing Instructor is about to address his class, and Dano draws near to listen. We will do the same.
Instructor—I desire to impress upon your minds that each element of art is as perfect as is art in its finest, fullest expression; hence, to slight the minutest detail is to slight the whole. In the straight line are all the elements of highest art. The curve itself is a succession of minute straight lines which also are capable of expressing light, shade, form and color, for are not colors the results of light impinging upon various arrangements of the straight line?
In the admirable work of Prince Dano which very appropriately he names a dream child, we behold an example of the value of the straight line. The curves of the upraised arms and dainty limbs. The modelling of the beautiful head and exquisite face. Even the dreamy expression of the half-closed eyes, all are the results of—but you are inattentive—and disturbed—why, Dano, dear youth, are you ill? A cup of water, Lēta. I believe there is no occasion for alarm, he only has swooned and shortly will revive. Thanks, Lēta, I will bathe his face which, doubtless, will arouse him.
Leta—Professor, I pray you to desist. He is subject to such attacks, and soon will return to consciousness. It is Doctor Vyonda̤'s opinion that he overtaxes his strength, and——
De L'Ester—Zenesta̤, he is so thoroughly submerged that I believe you safely may attempt to possess his organism. Gentola̤, do not move; the circle must remain unbroken, or Zenesta̤ cannot hold him. Be courageous, be firm, Zenesta̤. Ah! that is well done.
Dano—Friends, I who address you am not Dano; I am Zenesta̤ Ha̤o, once a teacher of languages in this Galarēsa̤, but now a denizen of the world of living ones. Know that what you term the breath of life is your real, intelligent self. This self or personality is an expressed portion of the Thon Eyama̤ Yanos (Infinite Intelligent Energy), which in man finds its highest representation and, consequently, is as indestructible as Andûmana̤ (God). Friends, I pray you to hear me silently and patiently. Once I was as you now are, and to me my wife Armēna̤, bore sons and daughters. Their urned ashes with their mother's and my own, may be found in the Istoira̤ Lēmah (Temple of the dead). Like you, I sorrowed for my dear dead. Like you I knew not that in a world surpassingly fair, I should continue to exist in a state of inexpressible happiness. But finally death released my real self from my worn body, and to my unutterable amazement and delight I found myself possessed of what I shall term a spirit body, far more admirable than the one I had during my mortal existence inhabited. I also found myself possessed of enlarged capabilities, and of a sense of freedom indescribable. And, oh joy of joys, in my new life I found all my dear ones whom I had not hoped to ever find again. Learn, dear friends, that death of the physical body does not mean death of the Self. Learn that continuity of existence is a law of the Thon Eyama̤ Yanos (the Infinite Intelligent Energy). Learn that surrounding this Ento world, invisible to physical vision are realms so glorious that language cannot describe them, and that at death of your bodies, in them your immortal selves will find all that loving hearts and highest aspirations can desire. Oh, my friends, no longer walk with downcast eyes. No longer despair because you have been taught to believe that your loved ones and yourselves will go into the Silence, and be no more. Children of Ento, lift up your hearts and rejoice, for so surely as you now exist, so surely will you continue to live, to love, and to learn lessons of Divinest Wisdom in a radiant world not subject to mortal conditions.