Chapter XV: Re-Embodiment (2)

Now we must turn our attention elsewhere. It will not, I think, be amiss to devote a short time to an investigation of yonder mercantile establishment, so that you may compare it with those of--well, of your city of St. Louis. You perceive that the structure is seven stories in height, and its frontage is quite two hundred feet, its depth about the same. Enter without hesitation. You are not yet quite accustomed to the fact of your invisibility. Including the interiors the entire structure is of stone and various metals, rendering it fireproof. Those elevators, swiftly carrying patrons to the various floors, also are entirely of metal. Yes, the lightweight metal metszû.

These plant spaces surrounding the fountains are quite attractive, and the fountains themselves are exquisite in design and execution. I imagine that they are intended to serve the double purposes of ornamentation and of cooling the heated atmosphere. Observe this one. In the centre of the basin, on an ornate pedestal, is poised the graceful form of a lovely, smiling girl, holding in her arms and outreaching hands a mass of blown rodels and buds, whose long, slender stems and frilled leaves seem to float on the water. From the hearts of the full blown flowers jets of crystal water are thrown nearly to the lofty ceiling, thence falling in silvery spray over the upturned face of the girl and her armful of rodel blooms. The rim of the marble basin is a composition of rodel blooms and foliage, as perfect of execution as is the marble form of the girl or the lifelike blooms she holds in her arms. Here is another basin in which is a great white marble vase filled with growing aquatic plants and grasses. Around its rim, at intervals, are sculptured water fowls from whose bills fine jets of water are thrown upward, falling downward into the vase and basin like a gentle shower of rain.

There are four fountains, and the basin of the next one is shaped like a shallow fluted shell, in which is a group of semi-human, semi-fishlike creatures of a mythical character. Oh, yes, the Entoans, like all other peoples, have their myths. Genessano may enlighten us as to the meaning of these nondescript creatures, whose present occupation is throwing a bewildering number of tiny streams of water in such a fashion as to partly conceal their lovely faces and fishlike forms.

Genessano--It is a very ancient story, and reckoned something more than a myth, that once in a remote time a mother and her three children fled from one who sought to destroy her and them. Being closely pursued, she cried to the Gods for succor, and with her children sprang into Indolois[a:]. The Deific Ones, compassionating her and her children, metamorphosed her and them in such a manner that easily they eluded their pursuer, who, in his fury, still sought for them, but the avenging Gods raised such a tempestuous storm that quickly he and his followers were destroyed. I recall that during my childhood, when storms swept over Indolois[a:]'s bosom and the moaning winds sounded like wails of distress, it was a common saying, "Ah, Rinahdo, the cruel one, pursues Noyn[a:] a Vonn[a:] and her children," and our mother would shelter in her loving arms her two timorous boys. This group commemorating the legend is, of course, purely fanciful, and the smiling mother and her laughing children are very unlike what my childish fancy used to conjure into something terrifying. This fourth fountain also illustrates a mythical legend, but it is not so regarded by my people.

In the centre of this beautiful flower rimmed basin is a mass of large leaves of a heart shaped growth. Up-springing from them is a long and strong stem, bearing two great, many petalled flowers, from whose hearts are rising with outspread wings, two softly plumaged birds, each one carrying in its beak a bud just bursting into bloom. Our Sacred Writings declare that out of Himself Andûman[a:] created and caused to come forth from the buds the infant progenitors of Ento's children. That at His command the Gods so assiduously cared for the infants, that with miraculous quickness they grew to maturity, and in time their offspring peopled Ento. Since most ancient times this myth has been perpetuated in sculpture, painting and in religious ceremonies.

De L'Ester--This story of the origin of the Ento human is no more absurd or illogical than are legends of the same nature of peoples of other planets, who cling to senseless superstitions because they are yet too immature to perceive the truth.

Now, Gentol[a:], you will speak of whatever may interest you.

Gentola--Where everything is interesting it is difficult to choose, but certainly this great structure is worthy of notice. The roof is composed of four great domes, filled in with plates of glass, so transparent as to not obstruct the light, which falls through shades so adjusted as to permit the sunlight to fall only on the groups of plants and fountains. To me the whole interior, including the displays of the various wares, appears very admirable. As we pass from one department to another I scarcely can realize that we are not in some similar establishment on Earth. Here are textile goods whose coloring, weave, designs and quality equal, if they do not surpass, any fabrics I ever have seen. After all you have said to me relating to the universality of substance, the homogeneity of the mind of man and of the natural and inevitable results of certain universal laws, perhaps I should not express surprise to find here silks, satins, velvets and other fabrics very like those of our own Planet. Here, too, are woolens of a great variety of weaves and colorings, but I do not see any black goods of any kind.

Genessano--To the Entoans black suggests darkness, for which they entertain a positive aversion, and darkness suggests death, the ever present terror of their lives. Black, the symbol of death, is never worn or used in any avoidable manner. You may not have observed that in the homes of the people lights ever are shining. Light being the symbol of life, on every home altar a light burns perpetually.

Gentola--As I have been on Ento but twice during the night I had not noticed the custom. A dread of darkness may to some appear rather childish, but I can sympathize with the Entoans, for I have an intense dislike for darkness. In the absence of light, I cannot locate myself. I feel as though I were drifting through illimitable space, and the sensation is excessively disagreeable. De L'Ester, can you explain this mental condition?

De L'Ester--Not now. I merely will say that you lack what phrenologists term locality, which will account for the fact that always you are getting lost.

Gentola--That is true. At present I am lost in admiration of the very attractive garments worn by Ento men and women. I know that I never again will desire to wear the close fitting, ungraceful clothing I always have worn. See that stately woman whose inner-robe outlines her superb form, yet is modesty itself, and the over garment, loose, but extremely graceful of cut, has such an air of distinction that it seems to me any change would detract from its beauty. Oh, yes, indeed, I greatly admire the manner in which the Ento women wear their abundant waved or curled hair. The fillet is far prettier than any millinery creation.

Dear me, what exquisite laces. As delicate as gossamer and of such lovely designs. I profoundly admire fine laces, and am a fair judge of their qualities, especially handmade laces, and these in texture, designs and workmanship are as fine and beautiful as any I ever have seen. Here, too, is a display of embroidery, which is surpassingly lovely. I perceive that in their production gold, silver and silk threads in a great variety of colors are combined harmoniously and most artistically, and here are bands in which the flowers are simulated by minute stones closely imitating the natural blooms. Yes, frequently I have observed robes of both men and women bordered and trimmed with such embroidery, and--no, it does not make the men appear effeminate, quite the contrary. I cannot attempt a detailed description of this adjoining department, devoted to an endless array of articles for the toilet. Should I do so, certainly my Earth friends would laugh at such an exhibition of my vivid imagination. Quite as certainly I would not find fault with their incredulity. I, however, will say that I find here combs, brushes, manicure implements, perfumes, soaps and an endless array of articles whose uses I only can guess at. Could some of our Earth folk walk into this establishment, which they would term a department store, they, like myself, would find themselves amazed, not so much by the strangeness, as by the familiar appearance of a thousand and more articles.

De L'Ester--Do not forget that in the universe there is but _One Mind_ which _must_ everywhere express itself harmoniously, and you will cease to marvel at many things.

Ah, George is experimenting and Genessano looks on with curious interest. _Mon ami_, what are you attempting?

George--I am trying to find out if any of these salespeople are Sensitives. Ah, my gentle sir, as you look about you seeking to learn who has spoken to you, your dreamy eyes are opening wide with surprise. Genessano, through Gentol[a:], address him. I fancy that he does not understand English.

Gentola--Emano, r[a:]ûdoss[a:] illûm[a:] voi hû[a:]. Voiha istan finostû tsoin[a:].

George--He grows alarmed, but stands in an attitude of intense attention.

Gentola--Oûna ûfan yoidas ēmano. Info oovistû.

George--Now he is thoroughly alarmed and rushes away, exclaiming, "Zēmos, Zēmos, dēlûsa ilmo evantos." His comrades and the people stare and question as to the cause of his alarm, and two young men have gone after him, evidently thinking him attacked with sudden illness. Very certainly Ento possesses many Sensitives, and when the Spirit Worlds shall have succeeded in changing the positive conditions surrounding them they will become amenable to Spirit Control. What did Genessano prompt you to say to the youth? In effect you remarked, "Friend, the weather is fine." Then you asked, "Do you hear what I say?" Then you added, "Be not alarmed. Info oovistû." Evidently he did not heed your advice, and certainly he does not desire further acquaintance with you, for his cried to Zēmos, a god, to protect him. The experiment being concluded, I shall not further interrupt you.

De L'Ester--Of course it is not practicable for you to give a detailed description of the contents of this establishment or of the structure itself, which is a fine example of its kind, but when the time shall have arrived for you to compile for publication our somewhat imperfect manuscript, under my control you will arrange it, and then you will recall all that you have seen, heard or experienced during your journeys to Ento, and it may be worth while to describe to some competent architect the style, including interior arrangements, of this and of other structures you have observed. Being within the equatorial belt, you may imagine that artificial heat is not required; but, in this latitude at times the temperature falls so low as to be uncomfortably cool; hence this electrical appliance for heating.

Our clairaudient friend, wearing an abashed and nervous air, is returning. Be at peace, gentle souled one, for at present we will not further disturb you.

Gentol[a:], you gaze longingly at those lovely laces. I wish it might be possible for you to bear with you to Earth such a pretty memento of your visit to Endoin[a:][a:] Tylû. George, what is next on the programme?

George--Gentol[a:], in this city there is a library which save for one in Dao, equals any other of Ento, and now we will afford you and Bernard a view of it.

Gentola--I have meant to ask you to show me a library, but always the time at our disposal is so fully occupied.

De L'Ester--Come, then, for the hours are flying and we cannot much longer hold you. Allow me to assist you. This large edifice contains treasures in books and various objects of value, but I do not greatly admire its style of architecture, still it is a grandly imposing structure and well adapted to its purposes. Those fine statues over the main portico are representations of certain of Ento's authors, and you will observe that those columns supporting the portico and them are in style nearly as purely Doric as any you may find on our Planet. They offer another illustration of the universality of form ideals. The main entrance, though severely plain, is very imposing. We will enter it and view the interior. You perceive that the roof is a series of four domes through which the interior is lighted, ventilation being secured through a scientific mechanism which thoroughly serves its purpose. Also you perceive that five galleries encircle the interior, and that the walls are fitted with glass inclosed shelves, which are filled with books, largely bound in a material similar to papier-mache, which its manufacturers know how to render flexible, and indestructible by insects. Others are bound in leather of a very fine quality. No, cloth bindings are not at all used, the Entoans being of the opinion that books worth preserving are worthy of meritorious covers.

On this table is a large open book. Examine the leaves, and you will see that they are of an excellent quality of paper, resembling parchment. Its texture is very close, and it is almost as thin as tissue paper, yet it is quite opaque. As Zenest[a:] is absent, you, Genessano, will tell us something concerning the language of this book.

Genessano--Gentol[a:], you have been informed that on Ento one language universally is spoken. True, there are other languages and dialects which, on occasions, are both spoken and written, but practically Avûnass[a:] is the language of Ento. By Spirits of your and other planetary Spirit Spheres I have been informed that they find it a singularly elegant and easily learned language. The alphabetical letters are not complex, and during many centuries Ento's scholars have made a study of simplifying the language. Did you understand Avûnass[a:] you would perceive that through terminal letters and accentuation a limited range of words serves for a wide range of expression. No, this book is not Avûnass[a:], but V[a:][a:]mû, the language of a southern race, of a period preceding the establishment of Ento's religion. You perceive that the letters or rather the characters, are quite unlike those of the Avûnass[a:] alphabet. Our friend, Poole, is studying Avûnass[a:], and should you so desire, he may draw the alphabet for you. Yes, I am his Instructor and find him an apt pupil.

Our father, who, during his mortal existence, was a learned man, owned a volume of this rare work, and through him Inidor[a:] and I became a little acquainted with the V[a:][a:]mû language and the contents of this book, which treats of the sciences of eighty Ento centuries ago. As the lesser is contained in the greater, so the accumulated knowledge of one era contains the germs which in after times unfold their potencies. Thus the sciences as understood in the days of Dylos R[a:]ûmo, the author of this book, were the germs of achievements of the past and present, which you have learned are in many directions of a high degree of excellence.

I am told that your word paper signifies the same as our word billos[a:], which largely is the product of a fibrous plant known as ekētos, which blooms prettily, producing large seed pods containing a white, silken fibre, which is utilized, not alone in the manufacture of billos[a:] but also for the production of textile fabrics, some of which you recently have been admiring. Does this scene impress you agreeably?

Gentola--Certainly; this is a large and beautifully arranged library, and what numbers of people are coming, going, or entering the adjoining room. A reading room? Yes, I should like to look into it. Why, it is quite crowded with men and women, all intently perusing books, papers and publications which wear a very familiar appearance; so familiar indeed as to nearly make me doubt the evidence of my own eyes. De L'Ester, please ask Genessano if the Entoans possess a literature corresponding with what we term romances.

Genessano--Indeed, yes, and it constitutes a considerable portion of Ento's literature. One story, which was based upon actual occurrences, Inidor[a:] and I used to read with profound emotion, and when this mission shall have culminated, and you may find leisure and inclination to hear it, I will relate what De L'Ester may translate into your language, and you may name it "A Romance of Ento."

Gentola--I am sure that I shall be even more pleased to hear it than you can be in relating it.

George--Yonder is another clairaudient Sensitive, the youth robed in blue, who apparently is seeking for some special book.

De L'Ester--Yes, and he also is somewhat clairvoyant. Gentol[a:], he may be able to perceive or to hear you. Stand near him and follow my dictation.

Gentola--Voian ēlos toy[a:] ēmano?

Entoan--Efon ist[a:] voian----Ah, Andûman[a:] kētoivan froy[a:]----

De L'Ester--Come away, come away, Gentol[a:], the man is scared out of his wits, and has fallen in a swoon. What a commotion. Employees and visitors hasten to his assistance, expressing much concern and surprise. What a pity that he is such a nervous and timid person. Ah, he is reviving and looking about him in an apprehensive manner, and every one is plying him with questions. Genessano, what is he saying? He speaks in such an excited and rapid manner that I cannot follow him.

Genessano--He says: "I was seeking for a copy of Brohûû Lûitszen, when I thought some one inquired as to what I searched for. I was about to reply, 'I am searching for Brohûû Lûitszen,' when I felt impelled to turn my gaze in the direction of the voice, and I call the Gods to witness that I thought I saw a strange woman, unlike any I ever have beheld. It was not that her appearance was forbidding, but there was in her face or form or expression that which I cannot explain or describe, and in an instant I was so overawed that I lost consciousness. I am ashamed of my weakness for, of course, it was a freak of my imagination." They ask him how the woman was clothed, and he replies that she was very singularly clothed, but that really he cannot describe her garments. He also says that he and his auditors have heard the strange stories relating to Prince Dano and some of his friends, and he prays the Gods that he may not find himself similarly afflicted. Now he says, "I feel myself quite restored, and am convinced that the seizure was due to an overtaxed brain, for lately I have been too studious and must desist from such imprudence." Although the youth assumes a careless air, it is very apparent that he is ill at ease, and his fellow employees and visitors to the library express concern over what has occurred. From their conversation it is evident that the experiences of Dano, Lēta, Favēon and other Sensitives have gained wide publicity, and from their peculiar nature are exciting attention and greater unrest in the minds of Ento's sorrowful peoples. A favorable omen, friends, a favorable omen of the swiftly coming dawn of the new religion, and as the day draws near I scarcely can restrain my impatience.

De L'Ester--As little can we, but the hours are swiftly flying and well may our hopes rise high, for surely, surely the light is penetrating the Spiritual consciousness of many of Ento's children.

Gentol[a:], we cannot attempt even a limited description of the vast collection of books, manuscripts and many curious objects. You must content yourself through storing up memories of many things which in coming years you may recall with pleasure to yourself and possibly to others.

Gentola--I wish that I might retain memories of all that I experience during these journeys to Ento, but always when I try to recall scenes and the appearance of peoples and places it is like attempting to revive illy remembered dreams. Now I gaze on this great library, on these magnificently beautiful marbles, bronzes and many lovely and interesting objects and I know that when I shall have returned to Earth it all will appear as "the baseless fabric of a vision."

De L'Ester--You cannot retain memories of your Ento experiences because your subconscious Self or Ego is too deeply submerged to be in conscious rapport with your animal or Soul Self, which receives negative imprints, which I promise you shall in time be developed into memory pictures as vivid as are these realities. From the inception of our Mission we have known that in your normal state you would not remember your Ento experiences; hence the necessity of an automatic record of them. Yes, I assure you that our expectation of your efficiency in this undertaking has been more than fulfilled and we promise you that the future shall not disappoint you. You yet are only on the verge of surprising experiences; soon your Spirit senses will be greatly quickened and then your work will be made plain to you. Ento is but one of the Planets of space which, with us, you may visit, should you so elect, but of this we will speak later on.

Friends, we yet have an hour at our disposal; how shall we best apply it?

Genessano--I suggest that as Gentol[a:] and Bernard have seen but little of Ento home life they shall be afforded a view of the interior of some residence.

De L'Ester--A good suggestion, Genessano, and we will ask you to select the residence.

Genessano--Then we will visit yonder massive and spacious dwelling just beyond the sun-crowned column. Observe that its architecture is not modern, neither is it of a very remote period. It may have been erected two centuries ago of our time. Its massive stone foundation and stone walls carried to the height of three stories show no evidences of disintegration, and around the doors and windows the finely executed sculpture appears as perfectly preserved as though chiselled recently. About the handsome structure the spacious lawn is abloom with a variety of flowering shrubs and plants and doubtless we will find the interior of the home equally as attractive. We will enter and ascertain. This wide, central hallway and the fine staircases are of Ento's rose tinted woods, and the mosaic floor, rugs, tapestries, statuary and decorative features are in every way admirable. Gentol[a:], I have not yet experienced the pleasure of viewing the cities and homes of your Planet, but ere long I may be afforded the opportunity of comparing them with the cities and homes of Ento.

De L'Ester--It may add to the sum of your information, but it will not add to your happiness to view some features of Earth's cities and homes. Some of these friends and I have viewed the best and the worst of them, and I assure you that the contrast between the sumptuous homes of the rich and the squalid homes of the poor is very saddening.

On our Planet this residence with its beautiful appointments would be considered exceptionally luxurious, on Ento such homes are the rule not the exception. We will enter the apartment on the left, and you, Gentol[a:], will describe it.

Gentola--We are in a very spacious room, through whose large alcoved windows one obtains a fine view of the lawn with its great beds of blooming plants and a lovely fountain throwing jets of sparkling water high into the air. The room is panelled in rose colored woods which rise to the ceiling and curve to its centre, meeting under a great cluster of carved foliage and rodel blooms. In the hearts of the rodels, which are of exaggerated size, are crystal bulbs, and I wish I might understand Ento's system of electric lighting, which is so unlike that of Earth. The floor is a mosaic of a very delicate rose tinted field, with shaded sprays of rose colored flowers scattered over it, and the wide border is of shades of rose colored foliage, grasses and flowers. The effect is delicate, very unique, and I think extremely pretty. In the centre of the apartment is a fountain, whose large basin is of white marble, veined with palest rose. It is in the form of a full blown rodel, and from its heart, tiny jets of water are thrown upward, striking a peculiar arrangement of crystal cups, producing soft musical sounds similar to the notes of a music box. All about the apartment are handsome divans, chairs and tables, on the latter are books, papers and other reading matter. There are swings and hammocks, and in the further one reclines a young girl with flowing dusky hair, olive-hued skin, lovely features, dark large, luminous eyes, full scarlet lips, through which her teeth gleam like pearls, and a form of perfect proportions. To me the eyes of the Entoans are their most noticeable feature. They are so large, so luminous, but always I see in them a sort of brooding expression as though in their depths lies some sorrowful memory.

Surely, yonder youthful looking woman near the window is not the mother of all those children, four of whom are swimming or playing in the basin of the fountain; three are swinging, and the two smaller ones are playing at her feet. Near her, reclining on a pretty wicker lounge, a fine looking man of apparently middle age reads aloud from a book which seems to greatly interest them, and now an aged man and woman, whom the children hail with delight, are entering the room, and the man and woman hasten forward, and as they lead them to seats, they affectionately welcome them and speak to them in gentle, solicitous tones. Now quite a youthful man and woman approach, and the two younger children scramble to their feet, and hasten to the arms outstretched to receive them. The man swings the older child to his shoulder, and the woman takes up the younger one who is little more than a baby, and turns to salute a beautiful, but sad faced young woman, who quietly and alone enters the room where all with much tenderness of manner greet her, and an attendant quickly robes the children playing in the basin of the fountain, who hasten to her and fondly cluster about her. Allow me to be silent, while Genessano shall explain the relationship of these persons.

Genessano--From their conversation I learn that the woman who entered alone recently has been widowed, and that she is the mother of the four children grouped about her. Her robe is not so much a badge of mourning as it is an indication of her widowhood. Only widows wear this peculiar shade of hinifro (yellow). The young girl in the hammock, the widow and the father of the other five children are the son and daughters of the middle aged couple, and the aged pair are the father and mother of the middle aged man, and all reside in this spacious home, of which this living room is a feature common to Ento.

De L'Ester--Another feature is about to be added to the already attractive scene, for here are a number of attendants bearing trays laden with delicacies and fruits, to be served for the family luncheon. The hour has expired, and after a hasty survey of other apartments of the residence, we must bid adieu to it and to Endoinas. At a low altitude we still will follow the course of the river, which from this point flows in a southwestward direction, and soon we will arrive at Hom-arû, (City of Palms), a city situated very near the line of the equator. It is on the west bank of the river which forms a boundary between the provinces of Vohûak[a:] and H[a:]mûyen, where we will meet a Messenger from D[a:]o, who will inform us of the precise condition of Vallo[a:]. The purport of the message will determine our movements of the near future. George, pause for a moment that Gentol[a:] and Bernard may again view this city of bridges. Is not it quite attractive?

Gentola--It is more than attractive, it is a view so impressively beautiful that one is not likely to forget it. You, who have seen the great cities of Earth, those aggregations of magnificence and squalor, will understand how my son and I are impressed and surprised by the beauty, thrift and cleanliness of the cities and towns of Ento. As I gaze in all directions the scene impresses me with a sense of unreality, much as though I were beholding the creation of a mirage. The humid, hazy atmosphere lends a sort of indistinctness to the far reaches of the country, where various kinds of water-craft are passing along canals and the larger Waterways; while below us the streets and bridges are alive with the movement of people and vehicles, and, De L'Ester, I observe several animals running about the streets or lying on porches; what are they?

De L'Ester--Do not you remember Fenēto, in Giant's dwelling? Well, those animals are Fenēto's kindred, and a naturalist would inform us that they belong to the feline family, which they do. No, on Ento there are no animals even similar to our wolf or its kindred. Indeed, on Ento, nearly all savage life forms have disappeared, and, in time, such forms will disappear from our planet. It is a fact that on all planets evolved to the Spiritualized man period, in proportion as humanity advances, the coarser life forms recede; for it is a law of nature that, as the Spiritual atmosphere of Planets increases in quality and quantity, through lack of proper vital sustenance, coarser life forms perish. Were the lion, tiger, bear and other savage animals of our Planet left unmolested, of necessity, in time, they would cease to exist. The activities of generation demand specific conditions, and Ento no longer offers conditions favorable to the generation of savage life forms. Yes, domesticity of certain animals enables them to for a time ward off the day of their doom, but it is only delayed. Have you observed those lofty Light Towers?

Gentola--Yes, and when at night they are ablaze, the scene must be beautiful. Some time, like you, I may be free to go where I will. Then I may come to Ento to view all the wonders we now have not time to even glance at. You all are most patient with my dear son and me, and I think that you know that we appreciate all your goodness to us.

De L'Ester--Progress, spiritually, comes only to those _who stand and serve_. You partly comprehend our present service of love, but you do not at all comprehend your service of a coming time, which to a greater degree will make us your debtors, even as we now are. Now we will continue our journey.

Bernard--Mother, dear, rest your hand on my shoulder. No, it does not hinder me, and it is so pleasant to feel your touch.

Gentola--You dear boy, I shall be glad to do so.

Bernard--What do you imagine the folks at home would think could they see you and me with this large Band of Spirits passing through the air?

Gentola--Dear me, I cannot imagine what they would think, but I suspect that they would think us in danger of an awful fall. De L'Ester, at what altitude are we?

De L'Ester--About one English mile above the surface of Ento, and we are moving rather slowly so that you may obtain a good view of the river and its shipping, of the irrigated country and its many towns, villages and fine suburban estates. The town we are nearing offers a rather pretty view. Through the arrival and departure of those great vessels its commodious shipping basin presents quite an animated appearance. Being a distributing centre it possesses a handsome Air Transport Station which adds to its importance.

It is near high noon and the chime of yonder sun-crowned temple dome is softly pealing, and men, women and children hasten to the midday service. Were we not so pressed for time we might witness it, but we must pass on. Gentol[a:], direct your gaze toward those low-lying, grayish clouds, for soon, in that direction, you will behold the light towers and golden domes of Hom-arû Tylû, where Sylvian, the messenger from Dao, will meet us. She is a relative of the sick girl, Vallo[a:], being an aunt on the maternal side. She and the Spirit mother of Vallo[a:], are in constant attendance, sustaining and strengthening her so as to as far as possible prolong her mortal existence. Why do they desire to prolong her mortal existence? For the reason that she is one of the principal instruments through whom is to come to Ento the priceless knowledge of a continuity of existence. Then each added day of her mortal experience more fully unfolds her Spirit senses, thus better fitting her not only for our purpose but for her entrance into Ento's Spirit World.

Including the human, the stages of animal existences find correspondences in the vegetable kingdom. First, the germination of the sown seed, followed by growth and the unfolding of the infolded bud into the full blown flower; then the ripening of the seed and the harvesting. Humans who pass from mortal existence ere the culmination of corresponding stages of growth and maturity, lack, so to say, _ripeness_, and upon entering the Spirit World they are at such a disadvantage that they find it necessary to again return into mortal environments where, through association with mortals, they may acquire growth and experience. The spirit friends of Vallo[a:], understanding this Law, will, for as long as may be possible, hold her in her physical body.

The low-lying clouds have drifted away, and yonder amid a sea of verdure is Hom-arû Tylû (city of Palms), where, in a certain park, our friend, Sylvian, will meet us. It is now beneath us, and we will descend to the Palm fountain. Is not this a peculiar conceit?

Gentola--Very, and as pretty as it is peculiar. Instead of the usual human, animal or fanciful composition, is this great metallic palmlike tree. Bernard, see how from that central cluster of upright leaves the water is thrown into the air from whence in silvery spray it falls upon the luxuriant foliage, from which, in a copious shower, it rains into the basin. Really, I think it almost the prettiest of the many fountains I have seen on Ento. In form and coloring both tree and foliage are true to nature. I wonder how the color effects are produced?

De L'Ester--Genessano says that the coloring is effected through a process of enamelling which resists corrosion. He also says----Ah, Sylvian approaches.

Sylvian--Efon fiestēmos, ēmanos. (I greet you kindly, friends.)

Genessano--Onos t[a:] fiestēmos[a:][a:], Sylvian. (We as kindly greet you, Sylvian.)

De L'Ester--Gentol[a:], I shall serve as interpreter between Sylvian, yourself and Bernard, who yet but slightly understands the Ento language. Eman[a:] Sylvian, this is Gentol[a:], of whom you have heard, and this is her son, Bernard, who recently passed from the mortal to our side of life.

Sylvian--Only as a matter of courtesy need I be presented to one whose name to me is as a household word. Gentol[a:], as I look into your eyes my heart goes out to you in fonder greeting than my lips can utter, for I recall cherished memories of long ago, memories which happily you cannot now recall, but which, at times, like evanescent mist wreaths drift athwart your mental vision. De L'Ester's warning glance deters me else I might grow too reminiscent, which, at this time, would be unwise. Gentol[a:], I cannot express my joy, my gratitude, that across the vast space between Earth and Ento an incarnated spirit has been brought to deliver to Ento's sorrowful children a Message of hope; a Message which shall lift out of an abyss of darkness into effulgent light a people who now with heavy hearts and downcast thoughts ever walk in the shadow of a great fear; for ever, as they courageously smile and strive to forget, they are conscious of the approach of the dread horror death. Gentol[a:], see you not how my people in whom the love element is so evolved as to dominate all other emotions, count all things valueless when compared with the intense affection they bear for their nearest and dearest ones? To them death is the synonym of despair, for when their dear ones pass into the Silence only despair and darkness of mind remain. But our hopes are high for the success of the Mission; for at last through the ceaseless efforts of Spirits of many Spirit Worlds the inner consciousness of the Entoans is being so aroused that in their despair, blindly they are reaching out for relief. More wonderful still, my kinsman, Omanos Fûnh[a:], Osy Hûn, listens with rapt attention as his child Vallo[a:] relates her wondrous experiences, which he no longer regards as the vagaries of a diseased brain, but begs her to repeat again and again the story of her beatific visions. Vallo[a:] stands upon the threshold of our Spirit Realms, and her Inner senses are so unfolded that she sees and holds converse with her mother, with me and with other Spirits who minister to her. To her father and others about her she conveys messages from her mother, from me and from other Spirits. To her father she relates incidents known only to himself, and she whispers to him of private affairs, and he marvels at her knowledge and eagerly questions as to the source of her information. So rapidly are his Spiritual Senses unfolding that at any moment they may burst into bloom; then the old, hopeless beliefs will pass into oblivion.

Prince Dano, my young kinsman, who is Vallo[a:]'s betrothed, scarcely quits her presence, and his heart is heavy with grief, that his beloved one is so near the conclusion of her mortal existence; but with a strength born of the new faith, he cheers and consoles her. Constantly his cry is, "Courage, my Vallo[a:], my own, for thou art not going into the dread, endless Silence, but into a gloriously beautiful world of living, loving ones. I, who for a time must remain on Ento, will ceaselessly proclaim the joyful tidings of continuous existence, and the swiftly fleeting years will pass, and then I shall come to thee, my beloved, mine own forevermore." Spiritually, he sees and hears with phenomenal clearness, and to all about him he earnestly proclaims his absolute faith in the declarations of the strange woman Gentol[a:], and implicitly he relies upon your declarations and promises.

His father, Basto Andûlēs[a:], who was in despair over what he considered the lost mind of his son, now cherishes Dano's words as though they are the very strength of his life, and Ontellēn[a:], Dano's gentle mother, smiles or weeps as she listens to her son's glowing portrayal of the life that is to be. Thus, Gentol[a:], you perceive that the seed you have sown has germinated and gives promise of a harvest of joy inexpressible.

The hour draws very near when we no longer will be able to hold in her physical form our precious Vallo[a:]. When that hour shall arrive we well know that Spirit forces from many Spirit Realms will with you dear and devoted friends unite in a supreme effort to reveal to Omanos Fûnh[a:] and others irrefutable knowledge of the continuity of life, and, Gentol[a:], that which more than all else will hasten the acceptance of the new religion will be the promise and proof of escape from ever impending annihilation, from which Priests and people shrink with ever increasing horror. Unquestioningly the people have been obliged to accept the ancient faith, whose exponents, the Priesthood, have interpreted to fit their own ideas and ends; but, ceaselessly, evolution proceeds, and despite most unfavoring conditions the peoples of Ento now are prepared for the ushering in of a brighter day than ever has dawned upon their consciousness; and, like many others, I scarcely can await the culmination of this momentous event.

Yes, Ento possesses many Sensitives, but hitherto, to a greater degree than now, the aural atmosphere has been so positive as generally to prevent their approach by wholly freed Spirits. Being yet physically embodied, your Spirit body is of a less sublimated character than are those of wholly freed and advanced spirits who are visible only to certain Priests and Priestesses of inner sanctuaries, whose lives are most ascetic and in a sense Spiritualized. When, through the influence of the new religion, the hopeless mental state of the people shall yield to joyful expectation, the aural atmosphere gradually will grow penetrable, and Sensitives whom now we cannot approach will develop into Mediums through whom Spirits will communicate to mortals the glorious truth that their present existence is but a momentary experience of unending life. De L'Ester informs me that now you fully understand the aims of those conducting and assisting in this Mission, which, as you may know, is not an unusual one, for all revelations to mortals are the results of Spirit activities, and all Saviors are Missionaries Re-embodied for a fixed purpose, which, alas, is not always accomplished.

Vallo[a:] being near the time of her release from her physical body these friends and I have arranged for constant communication between them and the watchers at D[a:]o. Thus, until summoned thither, they may without further anxious thought, devote every possible moment to your instruction concerning Ento.

With you, Bernard, who stand so silently observant, ere long I shall make it my affair to become acquainted, and with you, Gentol[a:], I rejoice to renew our friendship of a time when we were co-workers in an undertaking similar to this Mission. When you return to the Spirit side you will comprehend what now I must leave unexplained. Let these embraces assure you and this dear boy that as of yore I am your loving friend, Sylvian Ravvect[a:]. And now, ēmanos, Info st[a:]-tiv[a:] Zēnos[a:][a:] oovistû. (To the care of the Angelic ones, until we again meet.)

De L'Ester--Gentol[a:], it is arranged that constantly Sylvian shall be informed as to our movements, and as constantly she will keep us in touch with affairs at D[a:]o, for in a few days we will be summoned there to share with others the responsibilities of a most momentous occasion. In the meantime we must improve the swiftly fleeting hours. To-day we have held you with us overlong, and now must return you to your home, over which the shadows of twilight are falling.

Bernard--Mother, dear, do not you think Sylvian very gracious and beautiful? Really, I felt quite abashed when she kissed and embraced me.

George--Bernard, your modesty is very commendable. Evidently Sylvian discriminates between men and boys, as she kissed and embraced no one but you and your mother.

Bernard--All right, my British kinsman, for as long as Sylvian may discriminate in that manner I shall be content to remain a boy. But, mother, you have not answered my question.

Gentola--Sylvian is indeed both gracious and beautiful. The rich olive of her complexion is to my taste as much to be admired as are the roses and lilies of fair skinned beauties. On first coming to Ento the stature of the people impressed me rather unpleasantly; indeed, when I met Inidor[a:] and Geness[a:]no I imagined them specimens of a race of giants, and was surprised when I learned that they were of the average height of Ento's Oriental and most other races. Sylvian's height is, I should say, quite seven feet, but she is so symmetrically formed that she appears a grandly beautiful woman. Our friends tell me----

De L'Ester--Gentol[a:], positively you must defer further conversation, and I shall take it upon myself to see you safely landed on Earth. Bernard, as your mother is quite exhausted, George and I will bear her home, where ere now she should have arrived.

Gentola--Good-bye, dear son, good-bye until to-morrow.

De L'Ester--Yes, in interstellar space there are countless magnetic currents, each varying from others in their ever onward inconceivable velocity, in never varying directions. This current on which, or rather in which, we are speeding to Earth is not one in which previously you have journeyed, but which has speedily borne us within Earth's atmosphere, and--again you are safe at home, where loving ones will guard you until we meet to-morrow.

Adieu.