Chapter VIII: Precept Upon Precept (3)

God bless my enemies, as well as the better part of mankind, and gather all my students, in the bonds of love and perfectness, into one grand family of Christ’s followers. [15]

Loyal Christian Scientists should go on in their pres- ent line of labor for a good and holy cause. Their insti- tutes have not yet accomplished all the good they are capable of accomplishing; therefore they should con- tinue, as at present, to send out students from these [20] sources of education, to promote the growing interest in Christian Science Mind-healing.

There are one hundred and sixty applications lying on the desk before me, for the Primary class in the Massa- chusetts Metaphysical College, and I cannot do my best [25] work for a class which contains that number. When these were taught, another and a larger number would be in waiting for the same class instruction; and if I should teach that Primary class, the other three classes— one Primary and two Normal—would be delayed. [30] The work is more than one person can well accomplish, and the imperative call is for my exclusive teaching.

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From the scant history of Jesus and of his disciples, [1] we have no Biblical authority for a public institution. This point, however, had not impressed me when I opened my College. I desire to revise my book “Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures,” and in order to do [5] this I must stop teaching at present. The work that needs to be done, and which God calls me to outside of College work, if left undone might hinder the progress of our Cause more than my teaching would advance it: therefore I leave all for Christ. [10]

Deeply regretting the disappointment this will occa- sion, and with grateful acknowledgments to the public for its liberal patronage, I close my College.

MARY BAKER G. EDDY

Malicious Reports

_Truth is fallen in the street, and equity cannot enter._—ISAIAH lix. 14.

When the press is gagged, liberty is besieged; but when the press assumes the liberty to lie, it discounts clemency, mocks morality, outrages humanity, breaks common law, gives impulse to violence, envy, and hate, [20] and prolongs the reign of inordinate, unprincipled clans. At this period, 1888, those quill-drivers whose consciences are in their pockets hold high carnival. When news- dealers shout for class legislation, and decapitated reputa- tions, headless trunks, and quivering hearts are held up [25] before the rabble in exchange for money, place, and power, the _vox populi_ is suffocated, individual rights are trodden under foot, and the car of the modern In- quisition rolls along the streets besmeared with blood.

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Would not our Master say to the chief actors in scenes [1] like these, “Ye fools and blind!” Oh, tardy human justice! would you take away even woman’s trembling, clinging faith in divine power? Who can roll away the stone from the door of this sepulchre? Who—but God’s [5] avenging angel!

In times like these it were well to lift the veil on the sackcloth of home, where weepeth the faithful, stricken mother, and the bruised father bendeth his aching head; where the bereft wife or husband, silent and alone, looks [10] in dull despair at the vacant seat, and the motherless little ones, wondering, huddle together, and repeat with quivering lips words of strange import. May the great Shepherd that “tempers the wind to the shorn lamb,” and binds up the wounds of bleeding hearts, just comfort, [15] encourage, and bless all who mourn.

Father, we thank Thee that Thy light and Thy love reach earth, open the prison to them that are bound, con- sole the innocent, and throw wide the gates of heaven.

Loyal Christian Scientists

Pen can never portray the satisfaction that you afforded me at the grand meeting in Chicago of the National Chris- tian Scientist Association in 1888. Your public and private expressions of love and loyalty were very touch- ing. They moved me to speechless thanks. [25]

Chicago is the wonder of the western hemisphere. The Palmer House, where we stopped, is magnificent and orderly. The servants are well-mannered, and the fare is appetizing. The floral offerings sent to my apartments

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were superb, especially the large book of rare flowers, and [1] the crescent with a star.

The reception in the spacious rooms of the Palmer House, like all else, was purely Western in its cordiality and largeness. I did not hold interviews with all with [5] whom I desired to, solely because so many people and circumstances demanded my attention that my person- ality was not big enough to fill the order; but rest as- sured my heart’s desire met the demand.

My students, our delegates, about one thousand Chris- [10] tian Scientists, active, earnest, and loyal, formed a goodly assemblage for the third convention of our National As- sociation,—an assemblage found waiting and watching for the full coming of our Lord and Christ.

In Christian Science the midnight hour will always be [15] the bridal hour, until “no night is there.” The wise will have their lamps aglow, and light will illumine the darkness.

Out of the gloom comes the glory of our Lord, and His divine Love is found in affliction. When a false [20] sense suffers, the true sense comes out, and the bride- groom appears. We are then wedded to a purer, higher affection and ideal.

I pray that all my students shall have their lamps trimmed and burning at the noon of night, that not one [25] of them be found borrowing oil, and seeking light from matter instead of Spirit, or at work erroneously, thus shutting out spiritual light. Such an error and loss will be quickly learned when the door is shut. Error giveth no light, and it closes the door on itself. [30]

In the dark hours, wise Christian Scientists stand firmer than ever in their allegiance to God. Wisdom

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is wedded to their love, and their hearts are not [1] troubled.

Falsehood is on the wings of the winds, but Truth will soar above it. Truth is speaking louder, clearer, and more imperatively than ever. Error is walking to [5] and fro in the earth, trying to be heard above Truth, but its voice dies out in the distance. Whosoever pro- claims Truth loudest, becomes the mark for error’s shafts. The archers aim at Truth’s mouthpiece; but a heart loyal to God is patient and strong. Justice waits, and [10] is used to waiting; and right wins the everlasting victory.

The stake and scaffold have never silenced the mes- sages of the Most High. Then can the present mode of attempting this—namely, by slanderous falsehoods, and [15] a secret mind-method, through which to effect the pur- poses of envy and malice—silence Truth? Never. They but open the eyes to the truth of Benjamin Franklin’s report before the French Commissioners on Mesmerism: “It is one more fact to be recorded in the history of the [20] errors of the human mind.”

“The Lord reigneth; let the earth rejoice.”

No evidence before the material senses can close my eyes to the scientific proof that God, good, is supreme. Though clouds are round about Him, the divine justice [25] and judgment are enthroned. Love is especially near in times of hate, and never so near as when one can be just amid lawlessness, and render good for evil.

I thunder His law to the sinner, and sharply lighten on the cloud of the intoxicated senses. I cannot help [30] loathing the phenomena of drunkenness produced by animality. I rebuke it wherever I see it. The vision

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of the Revelator is before me. The wines of fornica- [1] tion, envy, and hatred are the distilled spirits of evil, and are the signs of these times; but I am not dismayed, and my peace returns unto me.

Error will hate more as it realizes more the presence [5] of its tormentor. I shall fulfil my mission, fight the good fight, and keep the faith.

There is great joy in this consciousness, that through- out my labors, and in my history as connected with the Cause of Christian Science, it can be proven that I have [10] never given occasion for a single censure, when my mo- tives and acts are understood and seen as my Father seeth them. I once wondered at the Scriptural declara- tion that Job sinned not in all he said, even when he cursed the hour of his birth; but I have learned that a curse on [15] sin is always a blessing to the human race.

Those only who are tried in the furnace reflect the image of their Father. You, my beloved students, who are absent from me, and have shared less of my labors than many others, seem stronger to resist temptation [20] than some of those who have had line upon line and precept upon precept. This may be a serviceable hint, since necessities and God’s providence are foreshadowed. I have felt for some time that perpetual instruction of my students might substitute my own for their growth, [25] and so dwarf their experience. If they must learn by the things they suffer, the sooner this lesson is gained the better.

For two years I have been gradually withdrawing from active membership in the Christian Scientist Association. [30] This has developed higher energies on the part of true followers, and led to some startling departures on the

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other hand. “Offenses will come: but woe unto him, [1] through whom they come.”

Why does not the certainty of individual punishment for sin prevent the wrong action? It is the love of God, and not the fear of evil, that is the incentive in Science. [5] I rejoice with those who rejoice, and am too apt to weep with those who weep, but over and above it all are eter- nal sunshine and joy unspeakable.

The March Primary Class

TO THE PRIMARY CLASS OF THE MASSACHUSETTS METAPHYSICAL COLLEGE, 571 COLUMBUS AVENUE, THAT ASSEMBLED FEB. 25, 1889, WITH AN ATTENDANCE OF SIXTY-FIVE STUDENTS

My students, three picture-stories from the Bible pre- sent themselves to my thought; three of those pictures from which we learn without study. The first is that of [15] Joshua and his band before the walls of Jericho. They went seven times around these walls, the seven times corresponding to the seven days of creation: the six days are to find out the nothingness of matter; the seventh is the day of rest, when it is found that evil is naught [20] and good is all.

The second picture is of the disciples met together in an upper chamber; and they were of one mind. Mark, that in the case of Joshua and his band they had all to shout _together_ in order that the walls might fall; and the [25] disciples, too, were of one mind.

We, to-day, in this class-room, are enough to con- vert the world if we are of one Mind; for then the whole world will feel the influence of this Mind; as when

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earth was without form, and Mind spake and form [1] appeared.

The third picture-lesson is from Revelation, where, at the opening of the seals, one of the angels presented him- self with balances to weigh the thoughts and actions of [5] men; not angels with wings, but messengers of pure and holy thoughts that say, See thou hurt not the holy things of Truth.

You have come to be weighed; and yet, I would not weigh you, nor have you weighed. How is this? Be- [10] cause God does all, and there is nothing in the opposite scale. There are not two,—Mind _and_ matter. We must get rid of that notion. As we commonly think, we imagine all is well if we cast something into the scale of Mind, but we must realize that Mind is not put into the [15] scales with matter; then only are we working on one side and in Science.

The students of this Primary class, dismissed the fifth of March, at close of the lecture on the fourth presented their teacher with an elegant album costing fifty dollars, [20] and containing beautiful hand-painted flowers on each page, with their autographs. The presentation was made in a brief address by Mr. D.A. Easton, who in appro- priate language and metaphor expressed his fellow-students’ thanks to their teacher. [25]

On the morning of the fifth, I met the class to answer some questions before their dismissal, and allude briefly to a topic of great import to the student of Christian Science,—the rocks and sirens in their course, on and by which so many wrecks are made. The doors of animal [30] magnetism open wide for the entrance of error, some- times just at the moment when you are ready to enter on

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the fruition of your labors, and with laudable ambition [1] are about to chant hymns of victory for triumphs.

The doors that this animal element flings open are those of rivalry, jealousy, envy, revenge. It is the self- asserting mortal will-power that you must guard against. [5] But I find also another mental condition of yours that fills me with joy. I learned long ago that the world could neither deprive me of something nor give me anything, and I have now one ambition and one joy. But if one cherishes ambition unwisely, one will be chastened [10] for it.

Admiral Coligny, in the time of the French Huguenots, was converted to Protestantism through a stray copy of the Scriptures that fell into his hands. He replied to his wife, who urged him to come out and confess his faith, [15] “It is wise to count the cost of becoming a true Chris- tian.” She answered him, “It is wiser to count the cost of _not_ becoming a true Christian.” So, whatever we meet that is hard in the Christian warfare we must count as nothing, and must think instead, of our poverty and help- [20] lessness without this understanding, and count ourselves always as debtors to Christ, Truth.

Among the gifts of my students, this of yours is one of the most beautiful and the most costly, because you have signed your names. I felt the weight of this yes- [25] terday, but it came to me more clearly this morning when I realized what a responsibility you assume when sub- scribing to Christian Science. But, whatever may come to you, remember the words of Solomon, “Though hand join in hand, the wicked shall not go unpunished: but [30] the seed of the righteous shall be delivered.”

You will need, in future, _practice_ more than theory.

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You are going out to demonstrate a living faith, a true [1] sense of the infinite good, a sense that does not limit God, but brings to human view an enlarged sense of Deity. Remember, it is personality, and the sense of personality in God or in man, that limits man. [5]

Obtrusive Mental Healing

The question will present itself: Shall people be treated mentally without their knowledge or consent? The direct rule for practice of Christian Science is the Golden Rule, “As ye would that men should do to you, do ye,” [10] Who of us would have our houses broken open or our locks picked? and much less would we have our minds tampered with.

Our Master said, “When ye enter a house, salute it.” Prolonging the metaphysical tone of his command, I say, [15] When you enter mentally the personal precincts of human thought, you should know that the person with whom you hold communion desires it. There are solitary ex- ceptions to most given rules: the following is an exception to the above rule of mental practice. [20]

If the friends of a patient desire you to treat him with- out his knowing it, and they believe in the efficacy of Mind-healing, it is sometimes wise to do so, and the end justifies the means; for he is restored through Christian Science when other means have failed. One other oc- [25] casion which may call for aid unsought, is a case from accident, when there is no time for ceremony and no other aid is near.

The abuse which I call attention to, is promiscuous

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and unannounced mental practice where there is no neces- [1] sity for it, or the motive is mercenary, or one can to ad- vantage speak the truth audibly; then the case is not exceptional. As a rule, one has no more right to enter the mind of a person, stir, upset, and adjust his thoughts [5] without his knowledge or consent, than one has to enter a house, unlock the desk, displace the furniture, and suit one’s self in the arrangement and management of another man’s property.

It would be right to break into a burning building and [10] rouse the slumbering inmates, but wrong to burst open doors and break through windows if no emergency de- manded this. Any exception to the old wholesome rule, “Mind your own business,” is rare. For a student of mine to treat another student without his knowledge, is [15] a breach of good manners and morals; it is nothing less than a mistaken kindness, a culpable ignorance, or a conscious trespass on the rights of mortals.

I insist on the etiquette of Christian Science, as well as its morals and Christianity. The Scriptural rule of [20] this Science may momentarily be forgotten; but this is seldom the case with loyal students, or done without incriminating the person who did it.

Each student should, must, work out his own problem of being; conscious, meanwhile, that God worketh with [25] him, and that he needs no personal aid. It is the genius of Christian Science to demonstrate good, not evil,— harmony, not discord; for Science is the mandate of Truth which destroys all error.

Whoever is honestly laboring to learn the principle of [30] music and practise it, seldom calls on his teacher or mu- sician to practise for him. The only personal help re-

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quired in this Science is for each one to do his own work [1] well, and never try to hinder others from doing theirs thus.

Christian Science, more than any other system of religion, morals, or medicine, is subject to abuses. Its [5] infinite nature and uses occasion this. Even the human- itarian at work in this field of limitless power and good may possess a zeal without knowledge, and thus mistake the sphere of his present usefulness.

Students who strictly adhere to the right, and make the [10] Bible and Science and Health a study, are in no danger of mistaking their way.

This question is often proposed, How shall I treat malicious animal magnetism? The hour has passed for this evil to be treated personally, but it should have been [15] so dealt with at the outset. Christian Scientists should have gone personally to the malpractitioner and told him his fault, and vindicated divine Truth and Love against human error and hate. This growing sin must now be dealt with as evil, and not as an evil-doer or per- [20] sonality It must also be remembered that neither an evil claim nor an evil person is _real_, hence is neither to be _feared_ nor honored.

Evil is not something to fear and flee before, or that becomes more real when it is grappled with. Evil let [25] alone grows more real, aggressive, and enlarges its claims; but, met with Science, it can and will be mastered by Science.

I deprecate personal animosities and quarrels. But if one is intrusted with the rules of church government, to [30] fulfil that trust those rules must be carried out; thus it is with all moral obligations. I am opposed to all personal

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attacks, and in favor of combating evil only, rather than [1] person.

An edition of one thousand pamphlets I ordered to be laid away and not one of them circulated, because I had been personal in condemnation. Afterwards, by a [5] blunder of the gentleman who fills orders for my books, some of these pamphlets were mistaken for the corrected edition, and sold.

Love is the fulfilling of the law. Human life is too short for foibles or failures. _The Christian Science Jour-_ [10] _nal_ will hold high the banner of Truth and Love, and be impartial and impersonal in its tenor and tenets.

Wedlock

It was about the year 1875 that Science and Health first crossed swords with free-love, and the latter fell _hors_ [15] _de combat_; but the whole warfare of sensuality was not then ended. Science and Health, the book that cast the first stone, is still at work, deep down in human conscious- ness, laying the axe at the root of error.

We have taken the precaution to write briefly on mar- [20] riage, showing its relation to Christian Science. In the present or future, some extra throe of error may conjure up a new-style conjugality, which, _ad libitum_, severs the marriage covenant, puts virtue in the shambles, and coolly notifies the public of broken vows. Springing [25] up from the ashes of free-love, this nondescript phoenix, in the face and eyes of common law, common sense, and common honesty, may appear in the _rôle_ of a superfine conjugality; but, having no Truth, it will have no past, present, or future. [30]

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The above prophecy, written years ago, has already [1] been fulfilled. It is seen in Christian Science that the gospel of marriage is not without the law, and the solemn vow of fidelity, “until death do us part;” this verity in human economy can neither be obscured nor throttled. [5] Until time matures human growth, marriage and progeny will continue unprohibited in Christian Science. We look to future generations for ability to comply with absolute Science, when marriage shall be found to be man’s one- ness with God,—the unity of eternal Love. At present, [10] more spiritual conception and education of children will serve to illustrate the superiority of spiritual power over sensuous, and usher in the dawn of God’s creation, wherein they neither marry nor are given in marriage, but are as the angels. To abolish marriage at this period, [15] and maintain morality and generation, would put inge- nuity to ludicrous shifts; yet this is possible in _Science_, although it is to-day problematic.

The time cometh, and now is, for spiritual and eternal existence to be recognized and understood in Science. [20] All is Mind. Human procreation, birth, life, and death are subjective states of the human erring mind; they are the phenomena of mortality, nothingness, that illus- trate mortal mind and body as _one_, and neither real nor eternal. [25]

It should be understood that Spirit, God, is the only creator: we should recognize this verity of being, and shut out all sense of other claims. Until this absolute Science of being is seen, understood, and demonstrated in the offspring of divine Mind, and man is perfect even [30] as the Father is perfect, human speculation will go on, and stop at length at the spiritual ultimate: creation

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understood as the most exalted divine conception. The [1] offspring of an improved generation, however, will go out before the forever fact that man is eternal and has no human origin. Hence the Scripture: “It is He that hath made us, and not we ourselves;” and the Master’s de- [5] mand, “Call no man your father upon the earth: for one is your Father, which is in heaven.”

To an ill-attuned ear, discord is harmony; so personal sense, discerning not the legitimate affection of Soul, may place love on a false basis and thereby lose it. Science [10] corrects this error with the truth of Love, and restores lost Eden. Soul is the infinite source of bliss: only high and holy joy can satisfy immortal cravings. The good in human affections should preponderate over the evil, and the spiritual over the animal,—until progress lifts [15] mortals to discern the Science of mental formation and find the highway of holiness.

In the order of wisdom, the higher nature of man governs the lower. This lays the foundations of human affection in line with progress, giving them strength and [20] permanence.

When asked by a wife or a husband important ques- tions concerning their happiness, the substance of my reply is: God will guide you. Be faithful over home rela- tions; they lead to higher joys: obey the Golden Rule [25] for human life, and it will spare you much bitterness. It is pleasanter to do right than wrong; it makes one ruler over one’s self and hallows home,—which is woman’s world. Please your husband, and he will be apt to please you; preserve affection on both sides. [30]

Great mischief comes from attempts to steady other people’s altars, venturing on valor without discretion,

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which is virtually meddlesomeness. Even your sincere [1] and courageous convictions regarding what is best for others may be mistaken; you must be demonstratively right yourself, and work out the greatest good to the greatest number, before you are sure of being a fit coun- [5] sellor. Positive and imperative thoughts should be dropped into the balances of God and weighed by spiritual Love, and not be found wanting, before being put into action. A rash conclusion that regards only one side of a ques- tion, is weak and wicked; this error works out the results [10] of error. If the premise of mortal existence is wrong, any conclusion drawn therefrom is not absolutely right. Wisdom in human action begins with what is nearest right under the circumstances, and thence achieves the absolute. [15]

Is marriage nearer right than celibacy?

Human knowledge inculcates that it is, while Science indicates that it _is not_. But to force the consciousness of scientific being before it is understood is impossible, and believing otherwise would prevent scientific demon- [20] stration. To reckon the universal cost and gain, as well as thine own, is right in every state and stage of being. The selfish _rôle_ of a martyr is the shift of a dishonest mind, nothing short of self-seeking; and real suffering would stop the farce. [25]

The cause of temperance receives a strong impulse from the cause of Christian Science: temperance and truth are allies, and their cause prospers in proportion to the spirit of Love that nerves the struggle. People will differ in their opinions as to means to promote the [30] ends of temperance; that is, abstinence from intoxicat- ing beverages. Whatever intoxicates a man, stultifies,

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and causes him to degenerate physically and morally. [1] Strong drink is unquestionably an evil, and evil cannot be used temperately: its slightest use is abuse; hence the only temperance is total abstinence. Drunkenness is sensuality let loose, in whatever form it is made [5] manifest.

What is evil? It is suppositional absence of good. From a human standpoint of good, mortals must first choose between evils, and of two evils choose the less; and at present the application of scientific rules to hu- [10] man life seems to rest on this basis.

All partnerships are formed on agreements to certain compacts: each party voluntarily surrenders independ- ent action to act as a whole and per agreement. This fact should be duly considered when by the marriage [15] contract two are made one, and, according to the divine precept, “they twain shall be one flesh.” Oneness in spirit is Science, compatible with home and heaven. Neither divine justice nor human equity has _divorced_ two minds in one. [20]

Rights that are bargained away must not be retaken by the contractors, except by mutual consent. Human nature has bestowed on a wife the right to become a mother; but if the wife esteems not this privilege, by mutual consent, exalted and increased affections, she [25] may win a higher. Science touches the conjugal ques- tion on the basis of a bill of rights. Can the bill of con- jugal rights be fairly stated by a magistrate, or by a minister? Mutual interests and affections are the spirit of these rights, and they should be consulted, augmented, [30] and allowed to rise to the spiritual altitude whence they can choose only good.

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A third person is not a party to the compact of two [1] hearts. Let other people’s marriage relations _alone_: two persons only, should be found within their precincts. The nuptial vow is never annulled so long as the animus of the contract is preserved intact. Science lifts humanity [5] higher in the scale of harmony, and must ultimately break all bonds that hinder progress.

Judge Not

Mistaken views ought to be dissolving views, since whatever is false should disappear. To suppose that hu- [10] man love, guided by the divine Principle, which is Love, is partial, unmerciful, or unjust, indicates misapprehen- sion of the divine Principle and its workings in the human heart.

A person wrote to me, naming the time of the occur- [15] rence, “I felt the influence of your thought on my mind, and it produced a wonderful illumination, peace, and understanding;” but, I had not thought of the writer at that time. I knew that this person was doing well, and my affections involuntarily flow out towards all. [20]

When will the world cease to judge of causes from a personal sense of things, conjectural and misapprehen- sive! When thought dwells in God,—and it should not, to our consciousness, dwell elsewhere,—one must bene- fit those who hold a place in one’s memory, whether it [25] be friend or foe, and each share the benefit of that radia- tion. This individual blessedness and blessing comes not so much from individual as from universal love: it emits light because it reflects; and all who are receptive share this equally. [30]

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Mistaken or transient views are human: they are not [1] governed by the Principle of divine Science: but the notion that a mind governed by Principle can be forced into personal channels, affinities, self-interests, or obliga- tions, is a grave mistake; it dims the true sense of God’s [5] reflection, and darkens the understanding that demon- strates above personal motives, unworthy aims and ambitions.

Too much and too little is attached to me as authority for other people’s thoughts and actions. A tacit acqui- [10] escence with others’ views is often construed as direct orders,—or at least it so appears in results. I desire the equal growth and prosperity of all Christian Scien- tists, and the world in general; each and every one has equal opportunity to be benefited by my thoughts and [15] writings. If any are not partakers thereof, this is not my fault, and is far from my desire; the possible per- version of Christian Science is the irony of fate, if the spirit thereof be lacking. I would part with a blessing myself to bestow it upon others, but could not deprive [20] them of it. False views, however engendered, relative to the true and unswerving course of a Christian Scientist, will at length dissolve into thin air. The dew of heaven will fall gently on the hearts and lives of all who are found worthy to suffer for righteousness,—and have taught [25] the truth which is energizing, refreshing, and consecrat- ing mankind.

To station justice and gratitude as sentinels along the lines of thought, would aid the solution of this problem, and counteract the influence of envious minds or the mis- [30] guided individual who keeps not watch over his emotions and conclusions.

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New Commandment

The divinity of St. John’s Gospel brings to view over- [1] whelming tides of revelation, and its spirit is baptismal; he chronicles this teaching, “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another.” [5]

Jesus, who so loved the world that he gave his life (in the flesh) for it, saw that Love had a new command- ment even for him. What was it?

It must have been a rare revelation of infinite Love, a new tone on the scale ascending, such as eternity is ever [10] sounding. Could I impart to the student the higher sense I entertain of Love, it would partly illustrate the divine energy that brings to human weakness might and majesty. Divine Love eventually causes mortals to turn away from the open sepulchres of sin, and look no more [15] into them as realities. It calls loudly on them to bury the dead out of sight; to forgive and forget whatever is unlike the risen, immortal Love; and to shut out all op- posite sense. Christ enjoins it upon man to help those who know not what he is doing in their behalf, and there- [20] fore curse him; enjoins taking them by the hand and leading them, if _possible_, to Christ, by loving words and deeds. Charity thus serves as admonition and instruc- tion, and works out the purposes of Love.

Christian Science, full of grace and truth, is accom- [25] plishing great good, both seen and unseen; but have mortals, with the penetration of Soul, searched the secret chambers of sense? I never knew a student who fully understood my instructions on this point of handling evil,—as to just how this should be done,—and carried [30]

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out my ideal. It is safe not to teach prematurely the [1] infant thought in Christian Science—just breathing new Life and Love—all the claims and modes of evil; there- fore it is best to leave the righteous unfolding of error (as a general rule) alone, and to the special care of the [5] unerring modes of divine wisdom. This uncovering and punishing of sin must, will come, at some date, to the rescue of humanity. The teacher of divine metaphysics should impart to his students the general knowledge that he has gained from instruction, observation, and mental [10] practice.

Experience weighs in the scales of God the sense and power of Truth against the opposite claims of error. If spiritual sense is not dominant in a student, he will not understand all your instructions; and if evil domi- [15] nates his character, he will pervert the rules of Christian Science, and the last error will be worse than the first— inasmuch as wilful transgression brings greater torment than ignorance.

A Cruce Salus

The sum total of Love reflected is exemplified, and [21] includes the whole duty of man: Truth perverted, in belief, becomes the creator of the claim of error. To affirm mentally and audibly that God is All and there is no sickness and no sin, makes mortals either saints or [25] sinners.

Truth talked and not lived, rolls on the human heart a stone; consigns sensibility to the charnel-house of sen- suality, ease, self-love, self-justification, there to moulder and rot. [30]

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The noblest work of God is man in the image of his [1] Maker; the last infirmity of evil is so-called man, swayed by the maëlstrom of human passions, elbowing the con- cepts of his own creating, making place for himself and displacing his fellows. [5]

A real Christian Scientist is a marvel, a miracle in the universe of mortal mind. With selfless love, he inscribes on the heart of humanity and transcribes on the page of reality the living, palpable presence—the might and majesty!—of goodness. He lives for all mankind, and [10] honors his creator.

The _vice versa_ of this man is sometimes called a man, but he is a small animal: a hived bee, with sting ready for each kind touch, he makes honey out of the flowers of human hearts and hides it in his cell of [15] ingratitude.

O friendly hand! keep back thy offerings from asps and apes, from wolves in sheep’s clothing and all raven- ing beasts. Love such specimens of mortality just enough to reform and transform them,—if it be possible,— [20] and then, look out for their stings, and jaws, and claws; but thank God and take courage,—that you desire to help even such as these.

Comparison to English Barmaids

Since my residence in Concord, N. H., I have read [25] the daily paper, and had become an admirer of Edgar L. Wakeman’s terse, graphic, and poetic style in his “Wanderings,” richly flavored with the true ideas of humanity and equality. In an issue of January 17, how-

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ever, were certain references to American women which [1] deserve and elicit brief comment.

Mr. Wakeman writes from London, that a noted Eng- lish leader, whom he quotes without naming, avers that the “cursed barmaid system” in England is evolved by [5] the same power which in America leads women “along a gamut of isms and ists, from female suffrage, past a score of reforms, to Christian Science.” This anony- mous talker further declares, that the central cause of this “same original evil” is “a female passion for some [10] manner of notoriety.”

Is Mr. Wakeman _awake_, and caught napping? While praising the Scotchman’s national pride and affection, has our American correspondent lost these sentiments from his own breast? Has he forgotten how to honor [15] his native land and defend the dignity of her daughters with his ready pen and pathos?

The flaunting and floundering statements of the great unknown for whose ability and popularity Mr. Wakeman strongly vouches, should not only be queried, but flatly [20] contradicted, as both untrue and uncivil. English senti- ment is not wholly represented by one man. Nor is the world ignorant of the fact that high and pure ethical tones do resound from Albion’s shores. The most ad- vanced ideas are inscribed on tablets of such an organi- [25] zation as the Victoria Institute, or Philosophical Society of Great Britain, an institution which names itself after her who is unquestionably the best queen on earth; who for a half century has with such dignity, clemency, and virtue worn the English crown and borne the English [30] sceptre.

Now, I am a Christian Scientist,—the Founder of

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this system of religion,—widely known; and, by special [1] invitation, have allowed myself to be elected an associate life-member of the Victoria Institute, which numbers among its constituents and managers—not barmaids, but bishops—profound philosophers, brilliant scholars. [5]

Was it ignorance of American society and history, together with unfamiliarity with the work and career of American women, which led the unknown author cited by Mr. Wakeman to overflow in shallow sarcasm, and place the barmaids of English alehouses and rail- [10] ways in the same category with noble women who min- ister in the sick-room, give their time and strength to binding up the wounds of the broken-hearted, and live on the plan of heaven?

This writer classes Christian Science with theosophy [15] and spiritualism; whereas, they are by no means iden- tical—nor even similar. Christian Science, antagonis- tic to intemperance, as to all immorality, is by no means associated therewith. Do manly Britons patronize tap- rooms and lazar-houses, and thus note or foster a fem- [20] inine ambition which, in this unknown gentleman’s language, “poises and poses, higgles and wriggles” it- self into publicity? Why fall into such patronage, unless from their affinity for the worst forms of vice?

And the barmaids! Do they enter this line of occu- [25] pation from a desire for notoriety and a wish to promote female suffrage? or are they incited thereto by their own poverty and the bad appetites of men? What man- ner of man _is_ this unknown individual who utters bar- maid and Christian Scientist in the same breath? If he [30] but knew whereof he speaks, _his_ shame would not lose its blush!

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Taking into account the short time that has elapsed [1] since the discovery of Christian Science, one readily sees that this Science has distanced all other religious and pathological systems for physical and moral reforma- tion. In the direction of temperance it has achieved far [5] more than has been accomplished by legally coercive measures,—and because this Science bases its work on ethical conditions and mentally destroys the appetite for alcoholic drinks.

Smart journalism is allowable, nay, it is commend- [10] able; but the public cannot swallow reports of American affairs from a surly censor ventilating his lofty scorn of the sects, or societies, of a nation that perhaps he has never visited.

A Christian Science Statute

I hereby state, in unmistakable language, the follow- [16] ing statute in the _morale_ of Christian Science:—

A man or woman, having voluntarily entered into wedlock, and accepted the claims of the marriage cove- nant, is held in Christian Science as morally bound to [20] fulfil all the claims growing out of this contract, unless such claims are relinquished by mutual consent of both parties, or this contract is legally dissolved. If the man is dominant over the animal, he will count the conse- quences of his own conduct; will consider the effects, [25] on himself and his progeny, of selfishness, unmerciful- ness, tyranny, or lust.

Trust Truth, not error; and Truth will give you all that belongs to the rights of freedom. The Hebrew bard

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wrote, “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean [1] not unto thine own understanding.” Nothing is gained by wrong-doing. St. Paul’s words take in the situation: “Not ... (as we be slanderously reported, and as some affirm that we say,) Let us do evil, that good may come? [5] whose damnation is just.”

When causing others to go astray, we also are wan- derers. “With what measure ye mete, it shall be meas- ured to you again.” Ask yourself: Under the same circumstances, in the same spiritual ignorance and power [10] of passion, would I be strengthened by having my best friend break troth with me? These words of St. Matthew have special application to Christian Scientists; namely, “It is not good to marry.”

To build on selfishness is to build on sand. When [15] Jesus received the material rite of water baptism, he did not say that it was God’s command; but implied that the period demanded it. Trials purify mortals and deliver them from themselves,—all the claims of sensuality. Abide by the _morale_ of absolute Christian Science,— [20] self-abnegation and purity; then Truth delivers you from the seeming power of error, and faith vested in righteous- ness triumphs!

Advice To Students

The true consciousness is the true health. One says, [25] “I find relief from pain in unconscious sleep.” I say, You mistake; through unconsciousness one no more gains freedom from pain than immunity from evil. When unconscious of a mistake, one thinks he is not mistaken; but this false consciousness does not change the fact, or [30]

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its results; suffering and mistakes recur until one is awake [1] to their cause and character. To know the what, when, and how of error, destroys error. The error that is seen aright as error, has received its death-blow; but never until then. [5]

Let us look through the lens of Christian Science, not of “self,” at the following mistake, which demands our present attention. I have no time for detailed report of this matter, but simply answer the following question sent to me; glad, indeed, that this query has finally come [10] with the courage of conviction to the minds of many students.

“Is it right to copy your works and read them for our public services?”

The good which the material senses see not is the only [15] absolute good; the evil which these senses see not is the only absolute evil.

If I enter Mr. Smith’s store and take from it his gar- ments that are on sale, array myself in them, and put myself and them on exhibition, can I make this right [20] by saying, These garments are Mr. Smith’s; he manu- factured them and owns them, but you must pay me, not him, for this exhibit?

The spectators may ask, Did he give you permission to do this, did he sell them or loan them to you? No. [25] Then have you asked yourself this question on the sub- ject, namely, What right have I to do this? True, it saves your purchasing these garments, and gives to the public new patterns which are useful to them; but does this silence your conscience? or, because you have con- [30] fessed that they are the property of a noted firm, and you wished to handle them, does it justify you in appro-

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priating them, and so avoiding the cost of hiring or [1] purchasing?

Copying my published works _verbatim_, compiling them in connection with the Scriptures, taking this copy into the pulpit, announcing the author’s name, then reading [5] it publicly as your own compilation, is—what?

We answer, It is a mistake; in common parlance, it is an _ignorant_ wrong.

If you should print and publish your copy of my works, you would be liable to arrest for infringement of copy- [10] right, which the law defines and punishes as theft. Read- ing in the pulpit from copies of my publications gives you the clergyman’s salary and spares you the printer’s bill, but does it spare you our Master’s condemnation? You literally publish my works through the pulpit, instead [15] of the press, and thus evade the law, _but not the gospel_. When I consent to this act, you will then be justified in it.

Your manuscript copy is liable, in some way, to be printed as your original writings, thus incurring the pen- [20] alty of the law, and increasing the record of theft in the United States Circuit Court.

To The Church of Christ, Scientist, in Boston, which I had organized and of which I had for many years been pastor, I gave permission to cite, in the _Christian Science_ [25] _Quarterly_, from my work Science and Health, passages giving the spiritual meaning of Bible texts; but this was a special privilege, and the author’s gift.

Christian Science demonstrates that the patient who pays whatever he is able to pay for being healed, is more [30] apt to recover than he who withholds a slight equiva- lent for health. Healing morally and physically are one.

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Then, is compiling and delivering that sermon for which [1] you pay nothing, and which you deliver without the author’s consent, and receive pay therefor, the _precedent_ for preaching Christian Science,—and are you doing to the author of the above-named book as you would [5] have others do unto you?

Those authors and editors of pamphlets and periodi- cals whose substance is made up of my publications, are morally responsible for what the law construes as crime. There are startling instances of the above-named law- [10] breaking and gospel-opposing system of authorship, which characterize the writings of a few professed Christian Scientists. My Christian students who have read copies of my works in the pulpit require only a word to be wise; too sincere and morally statuesque are they to be long [15] led into temptation; but I must not leave persistent plagiarists without this word of warning in public, since my private counsel they disregard.

To the question of my true-hearted students, “Is it right to copy your works and read them for our public [20] services?” I answer: It is not right to copy my book and read it publicly _without my consent_. My reasons are as follows:—

_First:_ This method is an unseen form of injustice standing in a holy place. [25]

_Second:_ It breaks the Golden Rule,—a divine rule for human conduct.

_Third:_ All error tends to harden the heart, blind the eyes, stop the ears of understanding, and inflate self; counter to the commands of our hillside Priest, to [30] whom Isaiah alluded thus: “I have trodden the wine- press alone; and of the people there was none with me.”

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Behind the scenes lurks an evil which you can prevent: [1] it is a purpose to kill the reformation begun and increas- ing through the instructions of “Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures;” it encourages infringement of my copyright, and seeks again to “cast lots for his vesture,”—while [5] the perverter preserves in his own consciousness and teaching the name without the Spirit, the skeleton without the heart, the form without the comeliness, the sense without the Science, of Christ’s healing. My stu- dents are expected to know the teaching of Christian Sci- [10] ence sufficiently to discriminate between error and Truth, thus sparing their teacher a task and themselves the temptation to be misled.

Much good has been accomplished through Christian Science Sunday services. If Christian Scientists occasion- [15] ally mistake in interpreting revealed Truth, of two evils the less would be _not_ to leave the Word unspoken and untaught. I allowed, till this permission was _withdrawn_, students working faithfully for Christ’s cause on earth, the privilege of copying and reading my works for Sunday [20] service; _provided_, they each and all destroyed the copies at once after said service. When I should so elect and give suitable notice, they were to desist from further copy- ing of my writings as aforesaid.

This injunction did not curtail the benefit which the [25] student derived from making his copy, nor detract from the good that his hearers received from his reading thereof; but it was intended to forestall the possible evil of putting the divine teachings contained in “Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures” into human hands, to sub- [30] vert or to liquidate.

I recommend that students stay within their own fields

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of labor, to work for the race; they are lights that can- [1] not be hid, and need only to shine from their home sum- mits to be sought and found as healers physical and moral.

The kindly shepherd has his own fold and tends his [5] own flock. Christian students should have their own institutes and, _unmolested_, be governed by divine Love alone in teaching and guiding their students. When wisdom garrisons these strongholds of Christian Science, peace and joy, the fruits of Spirit, will rest upon us all. [10] We are brethren in the fullest sense of that word; there- fore no queries should arise as to “who shall be great- est.” Let us serve instead of rule, knock instead of push at the door of human hearts, and allow to each and every one the same rights and privileges that we [15] claim for ourselves. If ever I wear out from serving students, it shall be in the effort to help them to obey the Ten Commandments and imbibe the spirit of Christ’s Beatitudes.

Notice

_Editor of Christian Science Journal_:—You will oblige me by giving place in your _Journal_ to the following notice. The idea and purpose of a Liberty Bell is pleasing, and can be made profitable to the heart of our country. I feel assured that many Christian Scientists will respond to this [25] letter by contributions.

MARY BAKER EDDY

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COLUMBIAN LIBERTY BELL COMMITTEE, [1]
1505 Penna. Ave., Washington, D. C.

TO THE DAUGHTERS OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION:—

It has been determined to create a Columbian Liberty Bell, to be placed by the lovers of liberty and peace in [5] the most appropriate place in the coming World’s Expo- sition at Chicago. After the close of the Exhibition this bell will pass from place to place throughout the world as a missionary of freedom, coming first to the capital of the nation under the care of our society. [10]

Then it will go to Bunker Hill or Liberty Island, to the battle-field of New Orleans (1812), to San Francisco, to the place where any great patriotic celebration is being held, until 1900, when it will be sent to the next World’s Exhibition, which takes place at Paris, France. There it [15] will continue until that Exhibition closes.

When not in use in other places, it will return to Wash- ington under the care of the Daughters of the American Revolution. Washington will be its home, and from there it will journey from place to place, fulfilling its mission [20] throughout the world.

The following is the proposed use of the bell: It shall ring at sunrise and sunset; at nine o’clock in the morn- ing on the anniversaries of the days on which great events have occurred marking the world’s progress toward liberty; [25] at twelve o’clock on the birthdays of the “creators of liberty;” and at four o’clock it will toll on the anniver- saries of their death. (It will always ring at nine o’clock on October 11th, in recognition of the organization on that day of the Daughters of the American Revolution.) [30] ... The responsibility of its production, and the direc- tion of its use, have been placed in the hands of a

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committee of women representing each State and Ter- [1] ritory, one representative from each Republic in the world, and a representative from the patriotic societies, —Daughters and Sons of the American Revolution, the Lyceum League of America, the Society of Ger- [5] man Patriots, the Human Freedom League, and kindred organizations.