As our Scotch friend is accustomed to our erratic ways I need not apologize for so abruptly interrupting him.
Hugh Miller—Certainly not. Indeed I have been so interested in what has transpired that, for the time, I quite lost sight of the occasion of our coming here. Madame, you will observe that here, arranged in orderly sequence, are fragments of the various stratifications of the several ages of this Planet which exactly correspond with those, not only of Earth, but of all planets sufficiently evolved to have become fully stratified. Perhaps you have been informed that in matter there is a universality of homogeneity, and that vibration, attraction, cohesion and gravity are the observable expressions of Infinite Intelligent Energy, the one law controlling all things that live, move and have Being. In a general way, the Entoans recognize this Law, also in a general way, they recognize the structure of their Planet, but in certain of their conclusions they are quite mistaken. When one takes into account their religious beliefs and their consequent lack of knowledge of astronomical and geological facts, it is not surprising that some of their conclusions are altogether erroneous. Happily the new Revelation will dissipate their fears of Andûmana̤ and His Messengers, and with their wonderful mathematical and mechanical ability, soon they will construct such aids to physical vision as will fill the minds of their Star-gazers with amazement.
Owing to its exceedingly level surface, during the spring this planet becomes inundated and engineering skill of a high order long has been required to not only obviate disasters, but to provide storage for water which later on furnishes a necessary but inadequate supply for the requirements of the peoples. To in a measure meet this demand, wells of enormous depth are bored and from them volumes of sweet, cool, refreshing water gush forth. Through the agency of these borings many geological facts have been forced upon the attention of the learned and through other agencies these facts have been confirmed. But always religious beliefs have stood as barriers between fact and fancy, and thus the science of geology is but partially comprehended, much less are its conclusions admitted.
Here are specimens of various coals whose properties are the same as those of Earth. And here are specimens of peat or bog fuel. Embedded in this block of peat is a piece of wood closely resembling oak, and here is another in which is embedded wood much like the beech.
In this compartment are specimens of gold-bearing quartz, and here are nuggets of free gold and a receptacle filled with grains of gold; and here are samples of scale gold which are nearly pure.
Here, too, is an exhibit of Ento's various silver ores. Observe these peculiar formations which resemble skeins of silver threads, snarled inextricably. In these compartments is an effective arrangement of specimens of all minerals not accounted precious, as copper, iron, tin, zinc, lead, in short all minerals of our Planet are represented here.
To spirits sufficiently advanced, two facts are evident. One is the universal homogeneity of what you term matter. The other is the universality of a Law whose activities everywhere are the same, but I do not mean to say that everywhere the results are the same for, of course, environments and conditions modify results; but where, as on Ento and Earth, environments and conditions so nearly correspond, necessarily, results must at least bear a general resemblance.
We now will pass to the adjoining apartment where an aged custodian is poring over an ancient looking volume, which is one of many ancient volumes stored in this Galarēsa̤. What a quaint but pleasing figure he presents. His long white hair waving over his shoulders forms a fitting setting for his dark-hued, intellectual and refined face, and the blue gemmed silver fillet confining his hair harmonizes with his loose, graceful, dark blue robe falling quite to his feet. Despite his hoary locks and aged appearance, to my mind he is a very handsome man. The volume he so earnestly endeavors to read is quite unknown to me. Perhaps Zenesta̤ may be acquainted with it.
Zenesta Hao—Let me see. Ah, yes, this was the language of a race known as the Da̤hûlo, who occupied the Province of Da̤hûlo which, some thirty centuries ago, bordered on Indoloisa̤'s southern shore. They were highly civilized and, like the Quends of to-day, did not intermarry with other races. The province was not then infertile, and through their manufacturing industries, one of which was the production of rich silken stuffs, they became the most opulent race of Ento. Then gradually arrived the not infrequent sequence. The very rich grew arrogantly selfish, and the masses with unperceiving senses yielded their rights and fell into idleness and consequent poverty which bred discontent, and soon discontent merged into turbulence and almost suddenly they turned upon their despoilers and in an incredibly brief time such devastation occurred that cities, towns and villages and country places were little less than ruins. The Governor of the Province appears to have been a timorous, incapable man who, realizing that he could not control the frenzied people, appealed for aid to the Supreme Euler, Imraû Ilvoita̤s, who was a wise, just and thoroughgoing man, who quickly adjusted affairs by renaming the Province Zil-Ammon, and obliging those whose selfish greed had led to the riotous proceedings, to make reparation to the wronged people and also to remove elsewhere. These vigorous measures must have been an effective object lesson, for never since has a like event occurred.
The volume further relates that through the encouragement of Imraû Ilvoita̤s, people from other Provinces emigrated to Zil-Ammon and thus the exclusiveness of the Da̤hûlo race was broken up, but the Province never regained its former prosperity. At that time there was a lack of systematic irrigation and the central regions were steadily growing so infertile that long previous to the birth of Inidora̤ and Genessano the Province of Zil-Ammon was little less than a desert. Only within two Ento centuries has an attempt been made to reclaim this waste country.
This volume, which once I translated into the present Ento tongue, is a history of the extinct race of Da̤Hûlo; from its pages I have culled the fragment I have related. I should like to assist this gentleman in his effort to read the volume, but I fear he might be greatly alarmed could he even perceive me looking over his shoulder.
De L'Ester—Gentola̤, you now understand the process. Try to lightly touch his hands.
It is more than amusing to note the haste with which he deposits the volume on the table and turns his hands this way and that in an endeavor to learn what has occasioned the singular sensation. Touch him again, but only on his left hand. There, that will do. We do not desire to alarm him. He is quite startled and looks about questioningly, but as he perceives nothing out of the common he picks up the volume murmuring, "Ah me, age is burthened with infirmities and strange fancies, and I grow old, old, and the dread Silence draws very near." Again he lays the volume down and with a pathetic, troubled expression, paces back and forth. Too bad to have so disturbed him, and we beg his pardon.
Hugh Miller—Madame, will you now observe this department, which contains examples of all the precious stones of Ento.
Gentola—I have been thinking of how beautiful all this is. The great apartment itself is exquisitely finished in various beautifully colored woods so richly, yet so daintily carved, that they match the loveliness of the Mosaic floor, which seems too fine for common use. These crystalline compartments, too, with their velvety linings and fine mouldings, containing this great collection of cut and uncut, set, and unset jewels, forms a spectacle beyond my ability to describe. In this first compartment are many gems of various tints of green, and how very beautiful they are. Are they not emeralds?
Hugh Miller—Yes, and they are very large and very fine gems. I am informed that Officials of a certain Rank wear emeralds as Insignia of their special dignity. For instance, the fillets worn by Zenesta̤, Inidora̤ and Genessano, are only worn by Governors of Provinces. Oh, yes, all who choose may wear the gems as ornaments, but only the fillets worn by governors are set in this peculiar style. No, the Supreme Ruler does not wear a Crown. His golden fillet of a certain width, richly ornamented with diamonds and sapphires, is the Badge of his high Office. As fillet gems, Princes and Princesses wear diamonds and rubies. Other persons of distinction wear their fillets variously gemmed. Yes, the fillet, its gems and style of setting, always denotes the Station of the wearer, in which there is no suggestion of caste or special privilege. But of this and other matters, you later on will learn more. By the Entoans diamonds are not regarded as being more valuable than are some other gems. Inidora̤ will offer you an explanation of the matter.
Inidora—The Irrigating and Waterways System starting at Camarissa̤, passes eastward until it emerges into Gandûlana̤ Loisa̤. The great work being completed to its western shore, immediately its eastern shore became a centre of ceaseless activity. Ere the lapse of many days a diamond deposit was discovered, which induced such a state of excitement that, for a time, work on the System was abandoned. In their eagerness to secure the gems, laborers set aside all other considerations and I well remember that such numbers of stones were found that dealers in the gems were threatened with financial ruin. Quickly the situation grew so serious that a General Council was convened, which resulted in our Supreme Ruler issuing an edict to the effect that all diamonds found in that locality should be the property of the government; that they should be sold at their value, and that the proceeds should be used toward defraying the cost of the Irrigating and Waterways System, which, as all persons knew, was for the general good. This ended the excitement and thereafter the work of the system proceeded uninterruptedly. During many years the Government worked the diamond deposit, and the accruing revenue greatly assisted in furthering the interests of the System. A time arrived when the deposit became exhausted, but that was after our parents, my brother and I had passed into our Spirit Realms. Never since the finding of such numbers of the gems have they, as previously, been valued beyond what you name the emerald, the ruby and some other fine gems.
Gentola—I never have much cared to possess jewels, but this display is so very beautiful that I cannot find words to express my admiration of it. Diamonds, diamonds, diamonds—glowing and scintillating like stars, and what a range of coloring they possess—blue, rose, yellow and various other hues, and all so beautiful. Do you think, sir, that on our Planet there are diamonds comparable in size, purity and coloring with these?
Hugh Miller—Yes, in size, purity and coloring, our planet possesses diamonds equal to the finest of these. Why not? The constituents of the two planets being exactly alike and conditions sufficiently similar, naturally the same causes that produced the crystallization of these beautiful gems, would be operative in the formation of the diamond and other gems of our planet. Yes, the diamond is pure carbon, and to my mind it is the most attractive of gems. We will now pass to the next compartment.
Gentola—Oh, how lovely, how very, very lovely. I am sure that those are rubies, and to my taste they are far more beautiful than diamonds. What a variety of shades of color—some pale to deep rose, from deepest rose to blood red and in their hearts is a glint of fire that makes them seem alive. I never have seen a ruby so large or so brilliant as that beautifully cut, unset stone on the white velvet cushion. How I should like to hold it in my hand.
De L'Ester—You may attempt it.
Gentola—Ah, I cannot lift it. Why is it that I cannot? I feel quite as substantial as when in my physical body, yet I cannot lift even that diminutive stone, which is no more than an inch in diameter.
De L'Ester—Your physical body has an affinity for matter on the physical plane. Your Spirit body has an affinity only for that which is Spiritual. Diamonds, rubies, indeed, all things are composites of matter and vitalizing spirit. At present, you attract only the spirit of things, but as you are not strong enough, we will form a battery, which will assist you to accomplish your desire. Friends, you will aid us. Now place your left hand on mine, your right hand under the stone and strongly desire that you shall hold in it the Spirit of the ruby. Try again, concentrate your will power, and—ah, that is well. Now slowly withdraw your hand, and lo, in your palm is the glowing Spirit of the rose hued gem, which in a moment must be returned to its home.
Gentola—This is a marvellous lesson. Now I better comprehend what you term the Spirit of things. How wondrously lovely is this glowing, palpitating Spirit gem. Why, really, it appears to possess life. Oh, must I so soon return it?
De L'Ester—Yes, unless you would have its now lustreless home quickly vanish into imperceptible atoms. Touch with your finger tips the material stone. Now we will break the circle, and you will have an illustration of the Law of Affinity. Observe that as the Spirit is being absorbed the material stone is regaining its glowing beauty, and now it is as it was before its Spirit Self was attracted by Spirit on a higher plane of Being.
Our experiment concluded, and your vital energy well nigh exhausted, we must return you to your material home.
That we may intelligently direct our future movements, we now will visit Valloa̤, and George, Inez and your loving lad will accompany you Earthward. If possible, to-morrow at nine o'clock, be in readiness for our journey.
Au revoir.
Bernard—Oh, mother, I am so happy to be near you and to know that to you I am as real as when in Earth life you tried to impress Spiritual truths upon my very material mind. Never mind, mother, the Law of Self atonement is a righteous law, and having emerged from the shadows of earthly conditions to me the light is all the more glorious. Seeing with clearer eyes, earnestly I desire and strive to grow in grace and in a knowledge of all truths. Mother, is not this a strange experience?
Gentola—Very strange, my dear; so much so, that often I imagine that I must have been dreaming strange dreams. While, as now, I am apart from my physical body, it seems as real as is my daily home life, but were it not that I have been made to keep a record of these journeys, I would retain no realizing sense of them.
How quickly we have journeyed, and until to-morrow I must lose sight of you dear ones.
Bernard—While you yet can see me, kiss me, mother, dear.
George—And kiss us, too, dear sister. Good-bye until to-morrow.
January 12th, 1894.
ENTO'S PRECIOUS STONES.
Bernard—Good-morning, mother, dear.
Gentola—Good-morning, my son, a thousand kisses for my dear boy.
De L'Ester—We, too, greet you, and regret that mentally you are so disturbed. Pray console yourself; affairs seldom go so awry that they cannot be righted. Soon yours will be so adjusted that you will not be subjected to interruptions, which are harmful to you and vexatious to us. Your west window is not sufficiently shaded. Be pleased to arrange it. Now try to tranquillize yourself. Join with us in Invocation to the One who is the Spirit of Harmony; thus we also will grow harmonious.
Infinite, Divine Intelligence of the Universe, we, the children of Thy Love, aspire to grow into a more conscious realization that we are, because that Thou art. As step by step, we strive to climb the ever ascending heights of progress, Thou art our support. When, through our weakness and lack of wisdom we go astray, Thou leadest us into straight paths. Ever are we reaching toward Thee, who art our Father and our Mother, and Thou givest Thy Angels charge concerning us. So will it ever be, and lovingly we adore Thee, in Whom ever we will abide. Amen, amen.
George, we are ready. Nay, dear lad, you will require all your strength, for we are late and must journey quickly, but you shall remain by your mother's side. Gentola̤, previous to these visits to Ento you could not have conceived an idea of the rapidity with which we are traversing space.
Gentola—No, and I cannot yet realize it. We must be moving with the velocity of lightning, still I perceive but a slight sensation of motion. It seems as though we are nearly stationary, while space glides away from us. As I grow accustomed to this sensation, I, too, at times lose consciousness of time and space.
De L'Ester—To fully freed spirits this sensation is even less emphasized. This leads me to mention that, upon becoming wholly freed, Spirits, as a rule, are not for a time able to recall vivid memories of their mortal existence. Upon attempting to manifest through some Sensitive almost invariably they are asked, "What is your name? Where did you live? When did you die?" The Spirit endeavors to place himself or herself en rapport with physical conditions involving time and space, and becomes too bewildered to give a correct reply. Should some other Spirit be present, as is usual, the bewildered one may be instructed as to how to make a proper statement. Those who have made a study of the spiritual philosophy and phenomena possess some understanding of the process of communication between the two worlds, and though both their premises and conclusions may be faulty, such knowledge as they may have acquired will, when they exchange the physical for the spiritual, serve them well. Not only will it prepare them for the surprises in store for them, but also for a more intelligent and intelligible return into the conditions of their mortal existence.
Gently, gently George, we must not forget that neither your sister or Bernard are as strong as some time they will be.
There are our friends awaiting us. Lohaû, ēmentos. Ah, Zenesta̤, you are ever punctual, and you, Humboldt and Bruno, shame us for our late arrival. It seems very ungallant to say that Gentola̤ belated us.
Gentola—Nevertheless it is true, and I beg your indulgence. I am learning that things temporal are likely to conflict with things spiritual, and this morning I have had an unpleasant demonstration of the fact. However, I believe that it was less my fault than my misfortune to be unprepared at the appointed time.
De L'Ester—As we, the jury, are in possession of the facts, we unanimously pronounce you not guilty, and now we will proceed to the department we visited yesterday. Here is the venerable antiquary still patiently poring over the story of the Da̤-Hûlos.
Zenesta—I sympathize with the earnest, gentle looking man, for I recall having passed many days and sleepless nights in similar undertakings. For many minds there is a peculiar fascination in striving to translate an unknown language. I well remember what delight it once afforded me, and the charm of it yet clings to me. But here is our geologist who will afford you further instruction in relation to these gems.
Hugh Miller—Madame, we first will observe this magnificent collection of sapphires which are so varied in their hues, so large and beautifully cut that they challenge our highest admiration.
Gentola—They are indeed wonderfully beautiful gems. It is a delight to only look at them. You say that oriental rubies are a species of sapphire. Why, I supposed that all sapphires were blue. And this, you say, is an oriental amethyst, which also is of the sapphire family. I fear that you think me, as indeed I am, very ignorant in this direction.
Hugh Miller—My dear madame, we do not expect you to be learned as to the varieties or qualities of these collections of gems; I am only concerned in instructing you for a purpose. The blue varieties are the true sapphires, as they alone possess both quality and color. They bear to both the oriental amethyst and ruby the same relation that the true white diamond bears to stones off color.
Gentola—Pardon me if I am interrupting you. Here is a gem—that one resting on the white cushion—that is so large, so radiantly beautiful, that one can imagine it of Celestial origin. Is it not a true sapphire? Yes? Ah, I thought so; it possesses such a living radiance. Since I have learned that gems are both Spirit and matter, I shall admire them all the more. How very lovely those rainbow-hued gems are; are they not opals?
Hugh Miller—Yes, they are opals, in whose depths the Spirit of the gem glows like fire. Some persons regard these gems as uncanny. Some time I will tell you something uncanny concerning them. No, not now; it would be unwise. A sober-minded scientist would declare that it is through the arrangement of the silicious matter largely composing these gems that the iridescent effects are produced. Such an assertion would be but part of a fact. Spirit is infinite in its modes of expression, and were it withdrawn from those gems, bits of flint would be quite as valuable as those glowing, scintillating jewels, which are lovely enough to adorn the Crown of an Empress. Now, madame, what do you suppose these green gems are? Emeralds? No, they are beryls; and these are aqua marines; they are of the same family, the aqua marines being the transparent variety. Yes, both are pretty stones. In this adjoining compartment is an admirable collection of—but perhaps you know what they are.
Gentola—From their color I should think that they are topazes. I do not greatly admire yellow jewels.
Hugh Miller—Do not make the mistake of thinking that all topazes are yellow, for there are other colors of the same gem, but the pellucid yellow stone is considered the most desirable variety. These are garnets, and are fine specimens of the stone. Here are deep red ones holding in their hearts imprisoned flames and yellow stones like bits of sunshine. And here are green, brown and black varieties, all more or less attractive and useful for various purposes. The next compartment contains carbuncles and some of them are beautiful enough to grace a coronet. Yes, there is a resemblance between the carbuncle and the red garnet, but their qualities are dissimilar.
You have been shown this collection of jewels as a demonstration of their existence on this planet, and be assured that the Entoans, like our Earth peoples, regard them with high favor. For lack of time we cannot critically examine this wonderfully fine and comprehensive collection of stones and minerals, whose exact counterparts are portions of Earth's treasures.
You express surprise that this enormously valuable collection is not better protected against evil-minded persons. Perhaps Inidora̤ or Genessano may enlighten us as to that and other features pertaining to this department.
Inidora—Previous to the death of our father, he made known to my brother and me that he possessed a large and valuable collection of jewels which were the accumulations of generations of both his and our mother's ancestry, and that some of them, through certain associations, were especially prized. The ruby which Gentola̤ held in her palm belonged to our dear mother, who received it as a bridal gift from her mother, and it was worn sometimes on the arm or bosom, but generally as a brow ornament. Our maternal grandparents possessed a remarkably fine collection of gems, which, at their death, our dear mother, who was their only child, inherited, and as with our father gem collecting was a passion, and as he also had inherited many rarely fine gems, it came about that at his death my brother and I found ourselves possessed of these joint accumulations of Ento's most beautiful and valuable jewels. As neither my brother or I desired to marry, we entered into an agreement concerning them that was mutually satisfactory.
I need not more than refer to the desires and plans of our parents to found at Camarissa̤ a great Galarēsa̤ which should be of lasting benefit to the children of Ento. But I may say that our minds were as one in our desire to carry out their wishes, and that we might speedily accomplish our purpose, we resolved that our vast inheritance should be devoted to accomplishing the object so near our hearts. As we were young and inexperienced, we counselled with our Supreme Ruler, Tyvon Oiranza̤, who was a man of most generous views, and he encouraged and aided us in various ways. So with the enthusiasm of youth and with ample means at our command, we began to prepare for the inception of our work, and soon, to our boundless joy, we saw our cherished plans taking form. As the massive walls began to rise, our hearts were filled with exultation and as the great structure assumed proportions and the various outer departments began to environ it, we grew so excited, so absorbed, that we scarcely ate or slept. Day and night we counselled together and planned for the glory and usefulness of the Institution which for all time should stand as a reminder of our honored and adored parents. As though it were but yesterday, I recall the last conversation between my brother and myself relating to this Galarēsa̤. The day had been sultry and the darkening clouds gave intimation of a storm, but in our eagerness to hasten the work we had labored until the day was nearly ended, and as we slowly walked toward our nearby home, the lurid Sun was dropping below the further shore of Indoloisa̤'s quiet waters. Suddenly Genessano passed an arm about my shoulders, and in a voice tremulous from emotion, said, "Inidora̤, what if death should come to one or both of us ere our work shall be completed? May Andûmana̤ preserve us, for what should I do shouldst thou be taken and I left? Should I be taken, thy wisdom would suffice for thy needs, but I, alas! I dare not further speak of it."
As we gazed into each others' startled faces tears filled our eyes, and sadly, silently, we entered our home, the dread shadow of Phra (death) falling over our hearts like a pall. But I strove to be courageous, and at once set about arranging our affairs so that should Phra, at an untimely hour, claim me, Genessano would understand my wishes which I well knew he would make his own. Ere long Genessano was left to execute our mutual wishes which he did with faithfulness and zeal. Heavy hearted he labored until death claimed him, and to others was left the fulfillment of our plans. That they did so faithfully and efficiently no one can question.
Concerning the security of the gems, I have only to say that the Galarēsa̤ and all pertaining to it belongs to the peoples of Ento and they are not so foolish or so evil minded as to despoil their own possessions.
De L'Ester—Gentola̤, the time allotted for this series of object lessons has expired, and to the Galarēsa̤ and our friend the antiquary who is tranquilly dozing, we will say au revoir.
We now will view Camarissa̤, so that you may form an idea of its extent, its architecture and other features. Observe this slope largely is devoted to detached private residences, and that the wide, beautifully paved streets intersect at right angles. At each intersection is a statue or group of statuary, or a fountain, or column, or other ornamental feature. This group of heroic size represents Genessano Allis Immo and his wife, through whom this great city honors itself by bearing her name. These statues are faithful representations of two of the most admirable spirits I ever have met. Yes, Genessano is very like his father, and Inidora̤ resembles his mother, who is a marvellously lovely woman.
From the slopes eastward the city extends about ten English miles, but from its northern to its southern limit is quite twenty English miles. Being the head of the Irrigating and Waterways System, naturally a large population has centred here and it is, with the exception of one other, the most populous and wealthy city of Ento. The population is about one million seven hundred thousand, and it is the greatest manufacturing and commercial city on the Planet.
Beneficent, indeed, was the conception and execution of the System which has recovered for the uses of the people lands which long ago would have become deserts. The system now extends more than four thousand miles, and rapidly is progressing toward encircling the planet. On our planet the undertaking would not be considered feasible, but with the means at command of the Entoans, it is not now regarded as extraordinary. With them the science of engineering in all its expressions is far in advance of what is known of it on Earth. Then, too, they so well understand the energies of electricity and vibration that, if they desired, they might shatter their planet into fragments. Looking along the waterway we see lofty columns whose massive bases are of stone, but the columns are of a metal known to the Entoans as Flaûen. It is very light and very ductile. As yet it is unknown on Earth. The elements do not corrode it, and it is a non-conductor of electricity, which renders it suitable for this and some other purposes. Those columns are used as electric light towers, and so high is the illuminating power that it well nigh turns night into day. Electricity as an illuminant and for all possible purposes is so cheaply procured as to be within the means of all requiring its use. Throughout the irrigated belt and on most portions of Ento there are Stations where thoroughly trained persons attend to the production and distribution of electric currents, and so valued is life that accidents are of very rare occurrence.
Were we not obliged to hasten our movements, we would take you through some of those stately as well as through some of those less pretentious residences. As you perceive there are no mean or squalid homes. Nowhere on Ento are there impoverished persons, and everywhere there is cleanliness, comfort and more or less of the elegancies of culture. Ento has progressed beyond the crime of privileged classes, those generators of debauchery and poverty. Industry is made obligatory upon all able to work and few, excepting the very aged, are unable to labor. Right living engenders health and aside from their dread of death which depresses them mentally, consequently physically, the Entoans live righteously and enjoy length of days.
No, there are no jails, penitentiaries, or almshouses. Those whom age, accident, disease or other causes have rendered helpless, are cared for, not as paupers, but as hapless children of Andûmana̤ for whom it is a pleasure and a duty to provide. Alcohol in its various forms is a commercial commodity, but drunkenness is forbidden and unknown. Chastity is universal. Polygamous relations do not exist. Official corruption or betrayal of a trust are reckoned as heinous crimes against society, and no one seems inclined to sin in either direction. Have I answered all your questions?
Gentola—Yes, all that occur to me at this time, and while paying close attention to your replies I have been gazing at this great and beautiful city and those wonderful Air Transports, rising like huge birds, then moving away so steadily, so noiselessly, save for that singing sound which is rather agreeable. I am curious to see their mechanism, but first allow me to see more of Camarissa̤. When all those great light towers are ablaze, from this elevation the view must be magnificent. You have said that some time I should see Ento by night. Pray do not forget your promise.
With all my heart I wish that some of our Earth architects might see some of those grandly beautiful temples and public buildings. I miss one feature of our temple architecture, which is the spire, but I consider those great shining domes with their delicate ornamentation, far more beautiful.
What flower lovers the Entoans must be. Wherever we have gone there is such an exquisite display of blooms that constantly I am wishing that I might carry some of them home with me, and really it seems odd that I cannot.
See that great vessel coming so swiftly along the waterway and what a swarm of smaller ones go darting along the street canals. De L'Ester, how are they propelled?
De L'Ester—By an electric appliance. On Ento an understanding of the science of mechanics is far in advance of the same on Earth. You may have observed that in persons who have lost or never have possessed the sense of sight, there is an abnormal development of other senses, for nature ever is striving to maintain an equilibrium. Thus, the Entoans, whose religious beliefs have for so long stood as an impassable barrier between them and an understanding of certain sciences, notably of astronomy and to a degree of geology, have developed in other directions.
You have expressed a desire for a closer view of the Air Transports, so we will visit yonder Station. I will assist you. Look downward now. Is not Camarissa̤ a wonderfully beautiful city? Ah me, it will be a long time before Earth will possess a city so free from the blemishes of poverty and degradation. The architecture, the statues, fountains and other features form such a harmonious and charming picture that one is constrained to admire the genius and culture of a people capable of presenting such fine effects. I have said that the Entoans make small use of more than two motive powers. I must correct that statement, for, to a very considerable extent, for certain purposes, they also use compressed and liquefied air. We now will descend to the Station. None of our present party are learned as to electrical appliances, but we may enlighten you a little. One of a line of Transports is about to rise, and it is laden with passengers and merchandise. Stored electricity is the motive power of this and of most Air Transports, but all are provided with Generators, to if necessary, increase the supply. It is not advisable to attempt a detailed description of the form and dimensions of this Transport, which is one of average size, but I shall call your attention to its principal features. You perceive that underneath and running its entire length is a cylindrical shaft of the metal known as Flaûen. Around it, arranged spirally, are huge Flaûen fans, which are set in motion by the swift revolutions of the screw like cylinder. At the rear is a fan shaped Flaûen structure, which presently you will see revolving with tremendous velocity. Across the front is this great horizontal Flaûen rod, which is held in place by strong metal sockets, in which it revolves. The ends or arms of the rod, extending on either side, are surrounded by Vossala̤a̤ (climbers). When the Transport rises you will better understand this part of its mechanism. All Transports are cigar shaped, so that they may offer slight resistance to the atmosphere and when they alight, those compressed air cylinders prevent concussion.
The doorways are being closed. From the windows the passengers call Info Oovista̤a̤ (adieus) and now the Transport is about to rise. Now the fan encircled, cylindrical shaft and the arms of the Vossala̤a̤ begin to revolve, the climbers, like great wings, open out and the Transport, with long sweeping undulations rises, rises, and at an altitude of a thousand or more feet, goes eastward.
To at all understand the construction of these truly wonderful Air Carriers one must be versed in both mechanics and electrical engineering, and we are not learned in either of them. Do not make the mistake of thinking that Spirits know everything; we know only what we have learned, and we are and ever will be students in a school which never graduates its pupils.
Another transport is about to rise and we will be invisible passengers. All aboard, friends. Now we rise for a hundred feet or so; now we dip a little; again we rise, and with an undulating movement we have ascended far above Camarissa̤, which sits among the shining waters and under the silvery mist veiling, but not concealing its beauties.
Genessano—Gentola̤, let me ask you to turn your gaze toward the Galarēsa̤. Is not it a grandly beautiful structure? And even at this distance, you may perceive the majestic form and benignant face of my father smiling us a farewell.
Gentola—It is indeed grandly beautiful. Its lofty, cream-tinted walls surmounted by those magnificent statues, and its great, shining dome towering toward the blue sky, present a most charming spectacle. I clearly perceive the statue of your father, whose majestic form and benignant face will retain a place in my memories of Ento.
De L'Ester—The leaves of the climbers and the fans of the cylindrical shaft are revolving with tremendous velocity, and the Transport is moving through the air, nearly a hundred miles an hour; yet one perceives only a slight vibration. The entire mechanism is under perfect control of the engineer and his assistants, and not for a moment do they relax their alert attention to their duties. The passengers, who appear quite at their ease, converse or gaze from the windows at the widespread panorama. We will repair to the rear platform, which will afford us a finer view. No, accidents scarcely ever occur to these aërial conveyances.
Gentola—How marvellous this all is. This swiftly moving Transport, like a great bird flying through the air, and yonder wonderful System of Irrigation and Waterways on which vessels great and small are passing in all directions. At night, when those great light towers illumine cities, towns and country, the scene must be enchanting. Two features of Ento strike me forcibly. One is the universally apparent prosperity of its peoples, the other is the architecture of cities, towns and country places. Even the country houses are picturesque and very pretty. I do not recall that I have seen one squalid, mean dwelling. I shall not soon forget the first time I stood in the Court of Honor of the White City of our World's Fair. It looked so familiar, so like some scenes that some time, somewhere, I had beheld, that a sense of bewilderment came over me, and for a time I thought that I must have dreamed of some similar scene. Then you, De L'Ester, spoke to me, and I recalled that on Ento I had beheld structures and scenes similar to, but far more beautiful than those presented by the Court of Honor. No, I do not as distinctly remember these Ento experiences as I remember some dreams which really sometimes come true.
Bruno—By some persons dreams are regarded as the reflex of incidents and impressions of waking hours, and frequently they are the result of more or less related and distorted images, which from time to time are impressed upon the Animal Soul, or so termed objective consciousness. But there are dreams and dreams. A genius, so called, is a Sensitive whose waking dreams are the conceptions of exalted Spirit minds, reflected or projected upon his or her aura, which, like a mirror, receives the impression and in turn reflects it upon the brain of the Sensitive. To the great poet Sensitive come the words and rhythm of songs which stir the hearts of the world. To the great sculptor comes a waking dream of beauty, and from marble he releases a form so flawless that through centuries it commands the adoring admiration of artistic souls. To the great painter comes a conception of enchanting scenes or of forms and faces whose witchery enthralls all beholders. To the great architect, the true builder, come ideals so exalted that neither human intelligence or human hands have yet executed them. Ask the great architect and builder of your time, if he has even once succeeded in embodying his highest ideal of his art, and I do not hesitate in saying that he will answer no, no.
Be assured that all so called geniuses are Sensitives, whose births were not of yesterday, for to spirit there is neither beginning or ending.
Ento's fine architecture is the result of impressions received not only from exalted Ento Spirits, but also from Spirits of other Planetary Spirit Realms. As there can be but One Mind in the Universe, all its expressions must vibrate in harmony with either its major or its minor chords; thus, the architects, designers and other artists who spoke into form and color, your beautiful White City, were as truly inspired as were some of olden times, who declared, Thus "saith the Lord."
De L'Ester—Below us is Gandûlana̤'s shining waters, extending from north to south, a little more than one hundred miles. From its western to its eastern shore its length is quite sixty miles. You perceive that its outline is nearly oval, and that at intervals its shores are dotted with towns and villages, whose inhabitants are engaged in the various pursuits of well conducted communities. In the larger towns are manufacturing and commercial interests, but residents of the villages are engaged in cultivating the surrounding lands. For the convenience of transportation and for the retention of the yearly over-flow, Ento's lakes and rivers have been greatly enlarged; thus, the depth of Gandûlana̤ Loisa̤ nearly equals that of Indoloisa̤. Ento's atmosphere being extremely humid, and the rain and snowfall of both the northern and southern hemispheres being very heavy, since time immemorial it has been necessary to provide means of protection against the annual inundation, which comes and goes with phenomenal rapidity.
All over the cultivated portions of the planet are artificial lakes of considerable extent, which really are storage receptacles, at times, of much needed water. What were the principal causes leading to the aridity of the Equatorial lands? We have informed you that largely it was through the levelling of the planet, which led to extreme porosity of the soil. But another factor contributed to the calamity. Previous to and for centuries after the establishment of the national religion, the Entoans were so unwise as to, for various purposes, denude the equatorial forests. In time they perceived their error, and during later centuries they have been endeavoring to restore them, thereby increasing the rainfall and oxygenating the impoverished atmosphere. Yes, we know that ages ago the equatorial regions were traversed by mountain ranges that now are mere vestiges of their once lofty grandeur, and where now are desert lands, were lakes and abounding water courses. Once Gandûlana̤ Loisa̤ was one of a series of great fresh water lakes, extending far toward the northeast, but for many an Ento century previous to the inception of the Irrigating and Waterways System it had been an ever lessening and isolated lake. Since then it has been greatly deepened. Naturally, the equatorial lands have suffered from the levelling process to a greater degree than have the lands of the temperate and colder regions. The temperature of the equatorial regions being high, induces rapid evaporation, and the soil to a great depth being very porous, it so quickly absorbs water that the flood of to-day is the drought of to-morrow. Thus the necessity of water storage is apparent.
Beneath us is the eastern shore of Gandûlana̤ Loisa̤, which marks the boundary line between the Provinces of Ondû and of Wya̤mo. Camarissa̤, the capital city of Ondû, is a little south of the equatorial line, which at this moment we have crossed, and now the Transport is descending to the large town on the lake shore. Down, down, we are dropping. How carefully the descent is regulated, and with what precision the Transport alights upon the platform. Gentola̤, observe the passengers as they descend from the transport.
Gentola—That is what I am doing. That magisterial looking personage, wearing a white robe, bordered with purple, has exceedingly fine eyes, so large, so brilliant, so full of expression. And that swarthy gentleman, robed in dark blue, with gold embroidered collar and sleeves, is a very striking figure. What a number of passengers there are. Some are very dark complexioned, others less so, and here are two men and a woman, who are blue eyed, very fair complexioned, and they have the loveliest blonde hair, waving quite to their shoulders. I must say that of all the Entoans I have seen, not one could be called ill-favored, and very few less than handsome. Then their sincere and gentle expression, their nobility of carriage and pensive gravity of manner inspire me with both admiration and sympathy, especially so, since I have come to understand their hopeless religious belief.
Yes, I greatly admire the clothing worn by both men and women. The Robes worn by those gentlemen add much to the grace and dignity of their appearance, but the Robes worn by the women, to my mind, are still more admirable. They are not so voluminous as to conceal the outlines of the form, and at the waist line they are loosely confined by beautiful girdles of various designs and materials. As to fabrics, style of cut, and ornamentation, there is much diversity, but all are more or less attractive, and certainly they must be comfortable. No, I have not on Ento seen one shabbily clothed person, which is more than I can say of our planet, for among the many millions of earth there are multitudes of poor, degraded, wretched beings, whose poverty, misery and rags are a continual protest against the selfish inhumanity of those of higher estate. It seems strange that although the peoples of our planet for the most part believe in a continuity of existence, they live as though the present existence is the end of all. Each man's hand is against his brother, and among nations the struggle for place and power drenches our world with blood and our prisons, almshouses, asylums for the insane are filled with criminals and other unfortunates. Compared with the gentle, civilized, unbelieving Entoans, we are uncivilized, believing savages. I no longer wonder that to the Spirit Worlds our Planet is known as the Sorrowful Star.
De L'Ester—Patience, patience, Gentola̤. Although the contrast between Ento's and Earth's social conditions is very marked, evolution means progress, and slowly, but surely, the peoples of our planet are emerging into higher conceptions of truth. Inevitably, a period will arrive when the surface of Earth will have become as level as is the surface of Ento. Just so surely a period will arrive when the unequal social conditions of Earth will be a thing of the past, and there will be a universal recognition of the rights of all. What is it, Genessano?
Genessano—I wish Gentola̤ to observe the person who, at this moment, is ascending the steps of the Transport. He is a Priest of the Inner Sanctuary of the Temple Zim. One of those with whom the Gods commune. One whom we would term a Sensitive. Accompanying him are several Novices, who have not yet made Vows of Consecration. I recall days of long ago, when as youths, Inidora̤ and I knelt before Priests of this Order, receiving from them instruction relating to our religion. To us they then appeared too holy to share the common fate of Andûmana̤'s other children. Indeed, outside of their Order, no one ever learns of their death. They disappear and no one questions as to what has become of them. Knowing this, our boyish imagination invested them not only with uncommon sanctity, but, as did our parents, with a certain mystery. You have become aware that usually Spirits can read the thoughts of mortals, and thus I can say that, as a rule the priesthood of Ento, especially the Sensitive Priests, serve sincerely their conception of the Infinite One. It may interest you to learn that the Ento name of this order is Oimû vosten-da̤ fanûlista̤, which in your language, De L'Ester says, would mean "consecrated to the mystery." It is true that they are consecrated to a mystery which they wholly misunderstand. Being Sensitives, they commune with Spirits on a level with or possibly above the level of their own spiritual evolvement, who still cling to and encourage them in an observance of the old superstitions.
For the reason that a peculiar qualification is requisite, the number of Priests admitted into this Order is quite limited. Of course, we understand that the qualification is the Sensitive condition.
De L'Ester—Friends, as the Transport is about to rise, we will embark. George, George, you are incorrigible. Gentola̤, if you lend yourself to participation in his mischievous pranks you will demoralize those staid Entoans. By your touches on his face and hands, you have so disconcerted that Official that he has quite forgotten the dignity of his position. It is amusing to see him turning this way and that, in a vain quest for the person who has taken such uncourteous liberties. Gentola̤, with all your gravity you, too, are inclined for a bit of fun.
Gentola—It is the old story: George did tempt me and I weakly yielded. That Official looked so serene and so very dignified that I felt a strong desire to startle him. His expression of dismay as he looked at his hands and rubbed his face and found no one near him, who could have touched him, was most laughable. He still looks disturbed and thoughtful. If he could hear me, I would ask his pardon.
George—Upon my word, I think he might hear you. I perceived that he is a very sensitive person, else I should not have asked you to touch him. Shall we test him, De L'Ester?
De L'Ester—Not now. The Transport is rising and we must not delay our journey. We will remain on the balcony, so that Gentola̤ and Bernard may view the country.
We still are passing in a direction north of east, and across the Province of Wya̤mo, which is more extensive than is Ondû. You perceive that the surface of the country grows a trifle more rugged, and now we are passing over the diamond bearing locality, spoken of by Inidora̤. Though unlearned in the sciences of civil and hydraulic engineering, one realizes the wonderful skill through which this vast area of irrigation and navigation is controlled, so that even during the season of floods, no disasters occur. The elevation we are crossing is a vestige of an ancient mountain range. Not seriously interfering with the System, it was because of its picturesqueness, left undisturbed. Its length is about one hundred miles and at intervals there are natural rifts through which this Waterway and canals have been carried. Later you will observe that Ento's Waterways are double; that is, there is the Waterway proper and its Feeder, which at times furnishes such supplies of water as may be needed to keep the main Waterway at a proper depth. Yes, the Feeder is for small vessels navigable, but as you will see a large portion of the System, you will better understand this matter. You perceive that the height is clothed with verdure and dotted with residences, istoira̤s and other structures. How prolific this region is, yet not so very long ago it was nearly a desert. Now its large population obtains from its rich lands not only ample sustenance for themselves, but great quantities of grains, vegetables and fruits are exported to other localities. All manner of tropical fruits are grown, and I can assure you that some varieties are very like some fruits grown in our own tropical countries. I know your fear of ridicule through making such statements. Do not concern yourself. Your astronomers and other scientists of less than half a century hence, will have obtained information concerning Ento that now they do not even dream of.
Our journey of to-day embraces a portion of the Irrigating and Waterways System, which is continuous toward the east. I have mentioned that the system is about 1,400 English miles wide, and that at this time it is more than 4,000 miles long. Understand that I now am speaking of the system embracing the equatorial desert lands, and other arid lands adjacent, for, as you will have occasion to observe, irrigation is general all over the arable portions of the planet, and I do not wish to have you confound the general with the special System, which is a most scientific work and quite apart from ordinary methods of irrigation. The waterway which now is beneath us, runs in a straight line to Loisa̤ Taimon, which we are nearing. On its shores are many towns, villages and a not very extensive city, named Gûlnoyas (crescent shaped). There is another city—but of that I shall not now speak. A feature of Ento is that wherever there is a body or stream of fresh water, there the people congregate. Thus, around Taimon there is a dense population, many of whom farm the rich and fertile lands beneath us. Next to death, the Entoans dread isolation and darkness. By a residence in cities, towns and villages they escape both.
Gentola—Why is it that to-day we have seen no animals?
De L'Ester—For the reason that Ento's orientals seldom, if ever, eat meat. For other purposes they do not require animals. No, there are no positive religious restrictions relating to the eating of meat, but orientals do not seem to care for it, and then nearly all Entoans shrink from taking life, even of animals.
Climatic conditions on this, as on other planets, exercise a strong influence in the selection of human foods. In the colder regions an oleaginous diet is necessary. In temperate climes this requirement is less marked, and in oriental countries generally there is a positive aversion for animal food. Aside from climatic influences there is another factor to be recognized. As humans evolve beyond the influence of the animal plane, they grow less inclined to kill that they may eat. This is a universal, though generally unrecognized law. In earlier ages, the Entoans, to a greater extent than now, were meat eaters, and at present, in colder climes, the people consume larger quantities of various fishes, which rather illogically, they scarcely regard as meat. As air transports bear to them the products of all lands, they do so from choice.
Yonder is Taimon, the beautiful, reflecting in its placid depths, fleecy clouds and sapphire sky. That it might serve as part of the System centuries ago, it, like Gandûlana̤ Loisa̤, was greatly deepened; otherwise the huge vessels traversing the waterways could not ride on their waters. On your first visit to Ento you saw in the distance something resembling railway cars. You now may have a closer view of Ento's Tuzamos, for yonder is a long train drawing into a station, nearby the Transport Station to which we are descending. Those tramway carriages traverse a large portion of the Planet, the motive power being electric. We will not await the landing of the transport, but will proceed to the Tuzamo Station, where doubtless we shall find matters of interest to you two voyagers. First, we will visit this telegraphic station where dispatches are being sent to and received from all portions of the Planet. We are not learned in this marvel of atmospheric telegraphy, which is the system generally in use on Ento. By means of this delicate mechanism, which appears so simple, but is so complex, messages instantaneously reach any designated point. The clumsier method of ground currents, still to a limited extent, connects rural Istoira̤s with Temples. Not for many centuries have wires been used. Ground currents superseded that system, which in turn has been set aside by the atmospheric system. We have informed you that the entire public service of Ento is under the supervision and control of the general government, which holds all officials and employes to a strict account of their several duties. The general government not only controls, but also owns, the Tuzamo System, the Transport System, the Irrigating and Waterways System, the Telegraphic and other Systems in which the interests of all the peoples are concerned. The lands, too, are owned by the general government, and no proprietor occupies more than a specified acreage, which in no case exceeds the needs of his or her household. On occupied lands there is a rental, or taxation, which is so slight as to be far from oppressive, and the revenues derived from this and other sources are used for the support of the general government, and for the prosecution of enterprises for the general good. Always, residences and other improvements, belong to the proprietor and may be sold or transferred.
Bernard—Mother, dear, although this spacious Station and all pertaining to it is new to you and to me, and those people of various races are, in size, dress and other peculiarities, somewhat unlike our earth people, still there is such a strong, general resemblance to them and to this scene that I scarcely can realize that I am on another Planet. Then, look at those Tuzamos, are not they in appearance, very like our Railway Cars?
De L'Ester—Certainly, their construction is similar to that of our railway cars, but if you will observe closely you will perceive that they present several striking differences. For instance, the driving wheels are enormously large, and there are three sets of truck wheels, the middle set running in the groove of the central rail, and the rails are not in sections, all being firmly welded into continuity, which greatly adds to their permanence and to the safety of those connected with the Tuzamo service, or who travel in those elegantly appointed carriages. Genessano, can you inform us as to when Tuzamos first came into use on Ento?
Genessano—I am not quite certain, but Inidora̤ may know. Inidora̤, ino intessa̤ varo mûya̤ Tuzamos inga fosdû?
Inidora—At the time of the Establishment of the National Religion they were known, for in the Sacred Writings they are referred to, and not as though they then were a modern invention. I recall that during my mortal existence I saw pictured representations of those ancient conveyances, which were quite unlike these admirably constructed and artistically finished carriages.
George—I have been looking about the city and if you are through with your observation of the Tuzamos, I can promise Gentola̤ and Bernard a view of something that may interest them.
De L'Ester—Come, friends, and learn what our enterprising Englishman has discovered. Gentola̤, allow me to assist you. Ah, a temple, and how beautiful it is. In form it is perfectly circular, with great flights of steps surrounding about two-thirds of its circumference. It is built of white marble, and from base to dome its walls are so covered with intricate and delicate sculpture that it presents the appearance of beautiful filmy lace. George, this will interest more than Gentola̤ and Bernard, for this is the first time that Inidora̤, Genessano or I have seen this somewhat noted Temple Soya̤von Telissa̤. (Name of Andûmana̤'s cup bearer.) Gentola̤, you will attempt a description of its interior, but as you are not apt at estimating dimensions, I will say that its diameter is about one hundred and twenty feet, and that its height from the floor to the apex of the dome is quite one hundred feet. You now will proceed.
Gentola—Though it is not so spacious or so magnificent as some of the temples of Camarissa̤, to my mind it is the most beautiful temple I ever have seen. The walls are marvels of decoration in tinted woods, paintings and sculpture, which I cannot attempt to describe. The seats are arranged as in an amphitheater, thus affording a full view of the altar, which is in the centre of the temple and directly under the dome. The altar of pure white marble is circular in form, and it rises tier above tier to a height, I should say, of thirty feet, and is surmounted by a wonderfully lovely life-size female figure, whose marble lips are parted by a smile of adorable sweetness. The three tiers are supported by flower-wreathed marble columns and male and female forms, their drapery falling about them in such filmy folds that it seems as though a breath of air might stir it.
Each tier of the altar is sculptured in designs of grains, fruits and flowers, so delicate, so exquisite, that one scarcely can believe it the work of mortals. On the lower tier are great golden bowls filled with grains and fruits, and the air is perfumed with the fragrance of flowers, whose yellow and crimson blooms are in vivid contrast with the snowy altar and its adornments. The floor is a mosaic, realistically representing the azure sky, and radiating from the base of the altar of sun rays in shades of red and yellow. The temple is lighted through the great crystal dome, whose blended sun-rays, falling downward onto the whiteness of the altar, produce an indescribably beautiful and peculiar effect. Over the temple entrances are inscriptions which you, Zenesta̤, will be kind enough to translate into my language.
Zenesta Hao—I shall do so with pleasure. Over the eastern entrance is inscribed, "To Andûmana̤, the Supreme One, Who giveth life and all that is." Over the northern entrance I read, "Divine Messengers of Andûmana̤, we implore you to bear to Him our ceaseless supplications for prolonged life." Over the southern entrance is a prayer which is the keynote of all Ento prayers. "Sorrowfully, but submissively, we yield ourselves to Thy decrees, oh Thou Who at Thy pleasure createst and destroyest."
Gentola̤, you have come to realize that love of life is the dominant desire of my people, and I who remember the desolation which death brought into my own mortal existence can well understand their ever increasing dread of the certain approach of the unseen, relentless God Phra (death).
Observe that the western doorway opens into a lofty and wide hallway, leading to the residence of the high priest and his attendant Priests and Priestesses. It now is on the stroke of the noon hour, and in all the temples of Ento prayers and offerings will be made to Andûmana̤ and His Messengers. You now will resume your descriptive remarks.
Gentola—In the gallery over the western doorway male and female voices, accompanied by the low tones of a voûhoida̤ (resembles a pipe organ) chant softly and continuously. Now the wide doors slide into the wall, and six boys clothed in red garments enter, bearing golden bowls filled with grain. They are followed by six girls clothed in yellow, who bear golden trays of various fruits. Ranging themselves around the altar, these children place upon it the bowls of grain and trays of fruit, and retire backward a short distance. Now six youths and as many maidens approach; the youths bear vases of red, the maidens, vases of yellow blooms, which also are placed on the altar, and all retire to near where the children with an expectant air are standing. Quietly the worshippers have entered, and the chanting of the singers and the strains of the voûhoida̤ have grown so mournfully pathetic that I cannot refrain from tears.
Now the music swells into fuller tones, and with stately tread a majestic looking Priest advances through the western doorway. He is clothed in a rich silken red robe, and around his head, holding back from his forehead his dark, abundant, waved hair is a gold fillet ornamented with red jewels. Over his forehead the fillet supports a Sun of red and yellow jewels which are dazzling in their splendor. In his left hand he carries a long golden rod tipped with a Sun of red and yellow jewels. As he approaches the altar the people rise, and with bowed heads stand motionless. Attending him are priests and priestesses robed in red and yellow, wearing gold fillets adorned with red and yellow jewelled Suns which gleam against their dusky hair. Now the high priest raises the Sun tipped rod toward the dome. The attendant Priests and Priestesses with uplifted hands bend low before the altar. The people still stand with bowed heads, and the voûhoida̤ seems to be murmuring a wordless prayer as he passes around the altar, touching with the rod each bowl and vase. Having made the circuit of the altar he bends low toward the east, the north, the south, and the west, and now, with upturned face, he extends his hands toward the sun crowned dome, and his lips utter words that I do not understand. Now as he turns toward the altar his dark hued face glowing with religious fervor, his luminous eyes shining with the brightness of the jewelled Sun above his forehead, his majestic form towering above the low bending worshippers, one might imagine him a veritable God. Zenesta̤, I beg of you to conclude the description of this scene.
Zenesta Hao—The sun is at its meridian, and its glowing radiance, falling through the red and gold of the dome, glorifies the snowy altar and the high priest, who with upraised arms reverently intones a prayer.
High Priest—Andûmana̤, onos zeloisa̤ noifen finos endessa̤ raos ta̤ valo, mûyen quandesta̤. Raos ta̤ flûen, tsensen toivan oomii. Neffan imha̤ vamûnya̤ ēdista̤ oimen. Endemissa̤ kenoita̤ lotas talita̤ Neffan doya̤ tēman gamina̤s Dia̤a̤. Ra̤û. Ra̤û. Ra̤û.
Zenesta Hao—The midday service is concluded, and to the tremulous tones of the voûhoida̤ and the low chanting of the Singers, the High Priest followed by his attendants and the offering bearers, retires through the western entrance. Silently the worshippers have dispersed, and we are the sole occupants of the temple.
Rendered into your language this is the sense of the High Priest's closing prayer:
Andûmana̤, we beseech Thee to accept our humble offering and our reverent adoration, and we implore Thee to bestow upon us Thy most precious gift, lengthened life.
In this instance Ra̤û signifies so be it.
Gentola—Inidora̤, I should think that this service would remind you of bygone days.
Inidora—Truly, it does, for my brother and I, with children of families attached to our parents' estate, were offering bearers of our home Istoira̤, of which our father's brother Foras Immo, was Priest. It was the ardent wish of our Uncle, Foras Immo, that Genessano should enter the priesthood, but my brother did not favor the idea, so it was abandoned. On our estate were a number of families whose co-operative labor afforded them more than an ample subsistence, and Genessano and I, with their children, who were to us as brothers and sisters, attended the estate school, over which, for as long as his short life lasted, our beloved Uncle Foras presided.
De L'Ester informs me that on your planet strange social distinctions prevail. That employer and employed occupy different social levels. Since all are the children of the same creative power, how can that be?
Gentola—For the reason that our people are yet very immature; they do not, as a rule, act justly; thus, there are various grades of society whose members may be worthy or the reverse. I regret to say that, on Earth, frequently the accident of birth or the inheritance or accumulation of wealth, confers upon very unworthy persons high social distinction and power. I should like to know how this state of affairs compares with social conditions of Ento.
Zenesta Hao—As De L'Ester desires that I shall reply to your query, I shall say that with all Entoans merit is the measure of men and women. I have learned that on your planet official position confers honor and dignity upon an incumbent. On Ento it is the character and conduct of the incumbent that confers honor and dignity upon the office. On Ento official position is regarded as a trust, and woe be to the man or woman weak or wicked enough to betray it. I may safely say that not within many centuries have men or women been base enough to, through official misconduct, forever set themselves apart as something to be shunned by right minded people. I also have learned that on your Planet all persons are not equal before the laws of your various national governments. On Ento, from the Supreme Ruler to the humblest citizen, all possess equal rights and all are held amenable to the written and unwritten laws and customs, recognized as being standards of right conduct. It is true that Ento's Supreme Rulers, in a sense, are autocratic, their decisions confirming or annulling any law or usage deemed unsuited to conditions or times; but, whatever the laws may be, their observance applies to ruler and citizen with equal force.
Of course, this state of society has not always existed; indeed, Ento's historical records relate that, during many centuries preceding the establishment of the National Religion, between nations whose rulers were cruel, ambitious men or women, there was continuous warfare, and thus the peoples were urged on to mutual destruction. Finally, one Foras Ah-Hû, of a far north land, gathered about him an immense army, with which he subdued all opposition and established absolute law and order. As he proceeded in his mission, the common people hailed him as their deliverer, as one sent by Andûmana̤ to rescue them from extermination, but it took quite ten Ento years to allay all disorder and to establish the government under one Supreme Ruler. Thereafter, from time to time, insurrections occurred, but ere long unruly persons came to understand that the laws were for all, and that all must obey them. The reign of Foras Ah-Hû was one of continuous effort for the rights of all peoples, and he lived to see the Entoans united under one ruler, and at his death his eldest son, Foras Ah-Hû, succeeded him as Supreme Ruler. Emulating his father's admirable example, he established more firmly such laws and usages as were found to subserve the highest interests of the entire peoples. From that period onward, the Entoans, under the protection and control of a firm but beneficent government, have continuously unfolded in their conceptions of all that pertains to the welfare of humanity, until in these days the expressions of their civilization give promise of a grand future. Not yet have they conceived an idea of the impersonality of the Infinite Spirit. Not yet have they learned the inestimable fact of their own immortality. But in thy time and way, oh Thou Infinitely Supreme One, Thou wilt bring them into a knowledge of the grandest of all truths, the continuity of life. Friends, if I have spoken at too great length, you will pardon me. One thought so easily leads to another, and old memories, like ghostly shades, so clamor for recognition, that they, not I, must make my apology.