INIDORA AND GENESSANO.
De L'Ester--Like musical chords touched by unskilled fingers are your
thoughts, Gentol[a:]. For some minutes we have watched your hurried
preparations for our journey and it is evident that, though your
spiritual aspirations reach out toward highest ideals, material duties
equally claim your attention. Yours is a harmonious combination of
the Mary and Martha natures. Martha, now, will please close her eyes,
fold her active, capable hands and rest while Mary shall accompany us
starward.
We too, wish that it might be possible for you in your fully conscious
moments to recall the memory of events, scenes and other matters
pertaining to our journeys. As you cannot, that which your soul self
will be made to write must serve as a record of your experiences while
absent from your body. And when under my supervision you will, for
publication rewrite the record, you will vividly realize all that has
or will occur during our mission. You now are in a tranquil state and
we will be off. George, we are ready.
Ah, how grand, how exhilarating is the movement of this inconceivably
swift magnetic current, bearing us on its glowing, undulating bosom
toward our destination, which we are nearing. Lower, lower, George.
Look downward now, Gentol[a:], for we are over the morass.
We perceive that the learned visitors have departed and that the
great fossil is being carefully prepared for removal. The ledge is
being further pierced to afford a passage for the waters of the
morass, and the excavation is nearly completed. Some time we again
will pass this way to observe the result of the skill and labor
expended in accomplishing so considerable an undertaking. This being an
agricultural region, the irrigating reservoir will greatly add to its
fertility.
We now will move southward for about fifty miles, and you will observe
how thickly populated is the region over which we shall pass and that
the inhabitants enjoy a degree of the comforts and luxuries of life
found only among a highly civilized, consequently prosperous, people.
Observe too, the fine architectural effects, the well tilled fields
and roadways as smooth and level as floors. And let me tell you, fine
roadways always indicate an advanced civilization.
You are surprised at the paucity of animal life, but if you will
consider that but few Entoans are flesh eaters, that but a limited
number of milch animals, known as Vochas, are required; that
agricultural machinery and most vehicles are propelled by electrical
appliances, you will perceive the reasons why animals are not more in
evidence. However, on portions of the Planet there are herds of animals
known as Angossa, which are bred solely for their wool. By but one
race, who are flesh eaters, are they used as food.
Having reached the southern limit of this cultivated plain, we now
will turn eastward. Yes, owing to porosity of the soil throughout this
region irrigation is prevalent. Now that we are about to lose sight of
the mountain range, it occurs to me that I have neglected to acquaint
you with its name, which is Keneto alista. The exact significance of
Keneto I cannot find in your language, but the shades of meaning would
include giantlike, enormous, immense and the like. Alista is the Ento
word for mountain. From northeast to southwest its length is about two
hundred miles, and for the most part it lies almost parallel with the
equator. Its greatest elevation is but little more than 6,000 feet
above sea level, and among mountain ranges north of the equator it
takes first rank.
We now approach a region whose natural water supply is quite
exceptional and the inhabitants equally so. To say why would but mar
your interest in what may come under your observation. We now will
descend to yonder slight elevation, and you, Gentol[a:], will speak of
whatever to you may appear noteworthy.
Gentola--All about us is a level country, luxuriantly clothed with
grains, grasses, flowers, shrubs and groves of great forest trees.
Here and there are gray stone buildings, some quite large, others
smaller--apparently outbuildings. At a distance are a few animals like
some we have seen elsewhere. In front of us is a large meadow on which
the grass grows luxuriantly and at its further side, in a grove of
great trees, is a rather large gray stone building with smaller ones
nearby. From that direction a man and woman come toward us; both are
taller than any persons I have seen on Ento. Really, they are gigantic
in stature and well proportioned. They are dark skinned, black haired
and black eyed, and in their faces is an expression of gentleness and
simplicity which renders them quite attractive. Both are clothed in
loose garments of what appears to be a coarse, brown woolen cloth. The
upper garment of the man falls a little below his knees and he wears
what you term birrsch (trowsers) of the same cloth, and pfettaa (shoes)
of what seems to be leather, or a material very like it. His heavy
black locks are held back by a really pretty filagree, silver fillet,
which is wider in front than at the sides or back of the head. The
rather loose fitting upper garment of the woman falls nearly to her
feet, which are incased in shoes similar to those worn by the man. The
distinguishing feature of her very simple costume is the queer head
ornament she wears. It is very like a gilt bird cage without top or
bottom. The lower band fits closely about her head and her long, black
hair is drawn upward through the cage, falling over the upper band and
down onto her shoulders in a heavy fringe. Sheltered, as though under
a canopy, she walks behind the man, and both seem to be searching in
the grass for something. Carefully parting the grass with his hands,
the man eagerly hastens forward, snatching at some creature running
away from him. Now he springs forward and seizes--ugh, it is a large
serpent, and he with one stroke of a large knife severs it in pieces.
The woman laughs delightedly, and pats him on the back, but evidently
the hunt is not ended, for Giant resumes his search in the tall grass,
and Giantess follows timidly. Now he waves her back, and with a great
leap he has caught another serpent, which he also decapitates and casts
from him. You may laugh at me if you like, but I am not fond of snakes.
An inherited aversion? Perhaps so, and a very positive one.
From their exultant exclamations, it is apparent that Giant and
Giantess are greatly elated over the destruction of the serpents. De
L'Ester, do you understand what Giant is saying?
De L'Ester--He says "Hildian, Gandûlan[a:][a:] salēno ran[a:]vû
cominist[a:] testo. Ino dû lan[a:]. Ah, viamon dûl[a:] testo, landisto
osten vi, on[a:] pr[a:]-o Gentol[a:]." This is not pure Ento, but a
dialect of this race. I can only attempt a very free translation of
what he has said. Hildian is the woman's name, and he says, "The bad
serpents are killed, and I am glad. Ah, they are dead, and can no more
harm thee, dear." Listen, Giantess calls some one.
Giantess--Oua[a:]men istan! Oua[a:]men istan! Gandûlan[a:], fanistû
testo.
De L'Ester--In answer to her reassuring call, "That surely the serpents
are dead," two boys and a girl are bounding across the meadow, and as
they rush to their mother's arms, they fill the air with their excited
exclamations and inquiries. Now Giant swings the girl to his shoulder,
and like a conquering hero, leads the way toward the dwelling. The boys
cling to the mother's gown, and all follow the father who relates to
the delighted children the story of his prowess.
We will follow them to the dwelling, which is a fair example of the
homes of this giant race. All their dwellings are built of stone, and
though simply constructed, are well suited to their requirements. The
average height of this pastoral race is quite eight feet and they are
symmetrically proportioned. They are affectionate, gentle, industrious,
devoted to their families, and in their way, intensely religious. They
are the Kenēto Soûvanallo, which I shall translate as meaning giant
flesh eaters. They never intermarry with other races, and what they now
are as a race they have been for as far back as their history reaches.
They cultivate only such grains, fruits and vegetables as their needs
require, their chief sustenance and possession being animals, which
are herded in the surrounding luxuriant grass lands. These animals are
unlike any we have shown you, later we will afford you an opportunity
of seeing them. The region occupied by this race is about two hundred
miles long by one hundred and fifty in width, and its southern border
approaches equatorial lands. You now will describe the exterior of this
dwelling.
Gentola--It is built of a grayish stone, the surface rather rough, but
the stones are very accurately fitted and cemented. It is two stories
high and of ample width, and there are a number of windows filled in
with what looks like glass. Some stone steps lead up to the front door
and a flight of stone steps at the north side of the house leads up to
the roof, which slopes a little from front to rear. Around the roof is
a low balustrade, and spread all over it are several kinds of fruits
drying in the warm sunshine. I think that is all I can say of the
exterior. As I do not possess fine descriptive ability I fear that I
fail to convey adequate ideas of things.
De L'Ester--You are too modest. True, your style is not ornate, but you
possess the greater virtues of conscientiousness and conciseness. We
now will enter and learn what of interest the interior of the dwelling
may offer. This hallway, running the depth of the house, divides it
equally, and in the front room on our left, on a couch covered with
skins, lies Giant, talking excitedly with Giantess. I gather from their
conversation that in this region the presence of venomous serpents is
very uncommon, but that there are harmless varieties, which these flesh
eating giants consider delicacies. No, they are true serpents, and not
allied to the eel, which on Ento has some close kindred, known as Chifa.
We now will look into the room across the hallway. Ah, this is the
sanctum sanctorum, the invariable feature of all rural Ento dwellings,
not pretentious enough to afford an Istoira. On the draped altar are
fruits and flowers and the floor is covered by a really handsome rug.
These gentle, simple minded folk are faithful observers of the all
pervading religion, and their spiritual conceptions are on a level with
those of their teachers, the priesthood, who regard Andûman[a:] and
Gods and Goddesses as personalities who are to be adored, or appeased,
as occasions may require. With great sincerity they fulfill their
religious obligations and peacefully await whatever of good or ill may
come to them.
Ah, Giant, Giantess and the children have left the house and are
wending their way toward the forest. During their absence we will look
through the dwelling. In this and the adjoining sleeping room are
couches, tables, chairs, some garments and nothing more. We now will
ascend the stairway to learn what may be on the upper floor. As is the
custom of this race, the upper floor is used for storage purposes, and
here are grains, fruits and nuts in abundance. You will describe the
contents of some of these receptacles.
Gentola--Here are two varieties of berries, and were I on earth I
should say that they are raspberries and blackberries. Taste them?
Shall I? They are slightly acidulous and well flavored, but do not
taste like either raspberries or blackberries. These pretty scarlet
berries look like very large cranberries.
De L'Ester--Do not taste them; they are not berries, but what you may
term Ento Capsicum.
Gentola--Thanks for your warning. I have a sort of mania for tasting
things, so, if you do not object, I shall taste this grapelike fruit.
It is delicious, quite like fine raisins. I am especially fond of
grapes, so, if in the dim future I must again become re-embodied,
this fine fruit might induce in me a desire to be reborn on Ento. De
L'Ester, that reminds me of a question I have wished to ask. After the
change called death can spirits choose their homes? Yes, I mean the
locality and their manner of living.
De L'Ester--Time and opportunity permitting, I always am pleased to
reply to your questions. As both are limited I must reply briefly.
_Spirits, while yet in the physical body, in a sense earn their
homes_, or places, they must occupy on our side of life, and also in
a sense they have a _choice_ as to the place of their abode, but the
_choice_ must be made while on the physical plane. As you have learned,
spirits are entities, individualized personalities, requiring homes,
associations and pursuits. According as life on the physical plane has
been elevated, pure, loving, true, or the reverse, so are spirit homes
and pursuits beautiful and supremely enjoyable, or lamentably wretched.
All newly-freed spirits gravitate to the sphere and condition for which
their degree of evolvement has fitted them, there to remain until
they have progressed to a more exalted state of being. Do all spirits
progress? Most assuredly. Evolution is not confined to the physical
plane. Progress, everywhere, is continuous. Yes, spirits, who through
countless trials and experiences have _earned_ the exalted position of
teachers, lovingly, patiently labor to aid all unevolved freed spirits
to outgrow conditions which, like soiled garments, cling to those of
the lower or Earth spirit sphere. Seldom does a newly-freed spirit
gravitate to the higher realms. Only exalted spirits, _who, for some
special purpose, have become re-embodied_, do, when freed from the
physical body, return to their former place of abode, or, perhaps, to a
higher sphere.
The legend of Jacob's ladder, on which angels descended and ascended
into heaven, is a fitting symbol of the spirit's progress. Ever
descending angel teachers reach downward to those walking in darkness
on both the mortal and the spirit side of life, instructing, inspiring,
encouraging and strengthening them, until emerging _from the shadows_
of sense, their quickened vision perceives the descending angels of
love, and with eager, outreaching hands and trembling feet, they strive
to climb the ladder of eternal progress, _finding on each round the
home, the place, the plane suited to the degree of their advancement_.
Have I made myself understood?
Gentola--Yes, as far as I am fitted to comprehend such an abstruse
matter. Another question occurs to me. You have said that certain Ento
and other planetary spirits visit Earth's spirit spheres. Can they also
come to our planet, as you and other spirits come?
De L'Ester--Yes, after they have learned how to accommodate themselves
to Earth's conditions. Some Ento friends who are learning this strange
process soon will be able to visit you in your own home. Not another
question, I beg. We have already consumed too much time.
George--If you are ready to descend from celestial to terrestrial
affairs, come to the adjoining room, Gentol[a:], and tell us what you
think of its contents.
Gentola--What do I think of its contents? Well, I think that if these
ears are not corn they are surprisingly like it, and in this round
receptacle is a white grain very like, though considerably larger
than grains of rice. And here is a small, round, black grain of which
evidently this dark meal is a product. I wonder if Giantess makes bread
of it? What a noise! What is it, De L'Ester?
De L'Ester--As there is nothing more of note here, we will learn what
occasions the disturbance. Ah, it is the family returning, and what
a spectacle! Giant holding at arm's length a reptile which writhes
and coils about his arm, and now, playfully, he thrusts it toward the
children, who are in an ecstasy of excitement and delight.
Giantess does not appear to have an aversion for snakes, for see, she
takes from her spouse the harmless ophidian, allowing it to coil about
her arms and holding it so that the children may toy with it. Now she
brings it into the house, and very unceremoniously cuts off its head,
skins it, cuts it in pieces, which she tosses into a large cooking
vessel, adds some seasoning, covers the vessel and suspends it over
the fire, which Giant has kindled in the great stone fireplace. Now
she puts into a broad, deep pan, some of the dark colored meal we have
seen on the upper floor, adds milk until the pan is two-thirds full
of a thin batter, and, with the addition of some honey and a quantity
of yellow sliced fruit, we have before us a pudding which, if not to
the queen's taste, is quite to the taste of our Giant friends. Yes,
generally, the Entoans use cooking stoves of various kinds, but these
Souvanallos appear content with a more primitive method. The brazier
over which the pudding is boiling and bubbling is something of a
compromise between a fireplace and a stove.
As you have learned that the Entoans have both milch animals and bees,
you no longer are surprised that they have both milk and honey. They
also have sugar as excellent as you have on Earth.
Have you observed the animal lying under the projection near the
fireplace? What a short-legged, long-bodied creature it is, and as
spotted as a leopard, which, but for its short legs, it closely
resembles. Now it yawns, stretches itself, and follows Giantess
about, purring and rubbing itself against her garments, and as she
stoops and smooths its glossy fur in a caressing tone she murmurs:
"Fenēt[a:], Fenēt[a:], Inēvo Gandûlan[a:], casto seffil[a:] dissim[a:].
Gandûlan[a:] essin [a:] tuno, espen dûro."
What does she say? What I have learned of the Ento language I have
learned correctly, so find it difficult to translate this dialect.
The sense of what she says is about this: "Fenēt[a:], Fenēt[a:], you
shall have some of the serpent broth. The serpent will soon be cooked."
Fenēt[a:] appears to understand his mistress's hospitable intention
and he has taken a position where he can keep an eye on the odorous
mess.
Animals generally can perceive spirits. Approach Fenēt[a:], Gentol[a:].
He snarls and shrinks from you as though affrighted, and Giantess seems
greatly surprised at the behavior of her pet. Now touch her hands. She
regards one hand, now the other, evidently puzzled over the peculiar
sensation. Touch both her hands and face. She cries out in alarm,
looking about her fearfully. Again touch her face. She flies to Giant
and clings to him, crying, "Gandûlan[a:], oin[a:] dos [a:] corrend[a:],
espen v[a:]o [a:] tos[a:] testo."
She tells him that the serpent's life is not gone, that it or something
has touched her. Valiantly Giant lifts the cover from the cooking
vessel and critically inspects the contents. With evident satisfaction
he reassuringly says: "Gandûlan[a:], [a:] testo, espen eno nûy[a:]n
dûro." Giantess, as though doubting his assertion, that not only is the
serpent dead but well cooked, timidly approaches and takes a rather
furtive look at the bubbling mess. Apparently satisfied that no harm
can come from that quarter, she excitedly relates her experience, to
which Giant listens sympathizingly but evidently incredulously. Not so
Fenēt[a:], who has crawled under the projection and is regarding us
with strong disfavor, but is keeping a sharp outlook for the promised
savory stew. As Giantess, with nervous apprehensive glances, stirs some
meal into the mess the escaping odor fills the room and Giant says
approvingly: "Es fûy[a:]n mûs[a:]," and Fenēt[a:] quite agrees with
his master, that the odor is good, so tempting, indeed, that he seems
inclined to crawl out of his lair, but seeing such uncanny folk about,
he draws back. On the long table across the front of the room Giantess
places plates, spoons and drinking cups. Into a large deep platter
she ladles the stew and carries it steaming to the table. The pudding
follows and the luncheon is ready. Giant places some seats, while from
the rear doorway Giantess calls, "Ferr[a:]nd, Tēd[a:], Listano," and
the children rush into the house and to their seats at the table. The
mother serves the father and them bountifully and Fenēta, reassured by
the coaxing invitation of his mistress and the children, goes shyly to
the generous platter of stew placed for him near his mistress's feet.
This meal is an appetizer for a more substantial one later in the day,
and as two of our Ento friends are to join us here we may witness it,
not that it is likely to be of particular interest, but it is a part of
our plan to show you various features of Ento life. While awaiting the
arrival of our friends we will further observe this family.
Gentola--What an incongruity there is between the stature of these
children and their apparent ages. The boys are nearly as tall as any
of you gentlemen, and the girl is nearly the height of a medium-sized
woman. I wonder how old they may be?
De L'Ester--I should say that their respective ages are about eight,
ten and twelve years. The luncheon is ended and the family are
repairing to the sanctuary. The father with a boy on either side of
him, the mother with the girl by her side, stand before the altar
with bowed heads and outreaching hands. Reverently the father returns
thanks, the mother and children repeating after him: "Andûman[a:],
Andûman[a:], Omi felistû, Gandûlanos ino testo. Omi felistû ond[a:] ino
omi mûs[a:] fer-ûj[a:], Oir[a:]h, Oir[a:]h, Oir[a:]h."
The sense of this is: "Supreme One, Supreme One. We offer thanks that
the venomous serpents are dead, and again we offer thanks for the good
one we have eaten." Oir[a:]h means praise, thanks, it is so, and the
like.
The children return to their play. Giant reclines on the couch,
Giantess busies herself with household affairs, and Fenēta has
retreated to his lair, from whence he suspiciously but rather drowsily
watches our movements. We now will go out under the trees to await the
coming of our friends.
The Souvanallos occupy a position midway between Ento's most advanced
races and several isolated communities of people who are little more
than semi-civilized, yet who are far from a condition of barbarism.
They, like nearly all the Entoans, through a reverential regard
for life, abstain from eating the flesh of animals, yet, rather
illogically, all eat fishes of various kinds. The Souvanallos alone
raise herds of angossa for food and for their wool, which they exchange
for such commodities as they require, in this manner procuring textile
fabrics, household furniture and utensils, agricultural implements,
ornaments for personal adornment and so on. In no sense are they
artisans. Their dwellings and other structures are erected by men of
other lands, and such materials as are not procurable at home are
brought by air or other transportation from elsewhere. Their priests
are of their own race, they having been from early youth trained
and educated for the office. They instruct the people in religion,
in government, and in educational branches, officiate at marriages,
at funerals, and adjust any differences between neighbors. Being a
truthful, virtuous, generous and loving people, differences seldom
occur to mar the serenity of their lives.
Again the family go toward the forest, and yonder are our Ento spirit
friends, Inidor[a:] and Genessano, who are calling to us a greeting.
Genessano--Loh[a:]û, Loh[a:]û, ēmanos. Itsu fon ipsoien?
De L'Ester--We impatiently have awaited your coming and truly you are
welcome. But while we exchange greetings we must remember that one
whom you never have met is with us. Gentol[a:], as these Ento spirits
do not understand your language, or you theirs, it will be both my duty
and pleasure to interpret for you and them. Inidor[a:], Genessano, this
is our missionary, Gentol[a:], of whom you have heard and of whom we
all expect so much.
Genessano--My brother Inidor[a:] and I gratefully appreciate your
efforts on behalf of our people and we pray you accept our homage and
the earnest desire of our hearts that we may come to be numbered among
your friends. Strangely do we come together, Gentol[a:] ēman[a:], you
from a distant planet, we from our spirit realms. Appropriate indeed is
your new name, for well beloved are you by your dearest ones and your
many friends on the spirit side who also give to my brother and me a
place in their affection. Drawn by varied duties and inclinations, we
have visited other planets and their spirit realms, and, although we
have visited Earth's spirit realms, we as yet have not visited your
planet, and only twice, since passing hence, have we returned to our
beloved Ento. On this, our third return, we find ourselves amid scenes
once familiar but now so changed that we are as strangers in a strange
land. Through tender ties or weighty interests, often spirits are drawn
to their former abodes, but Inidor[a:] and I, being, save for some
distant kindred, the last of our race, have felt no attraction on Ento
strong enough to draw us away from dearer ties. You, perhaps, are aware
that we now return for a special purpose, and may the Supreme One aid
us all in our loving endeavor. This my brother Inidor[a:] will speak
for himself.
Inidora--I am happy in being a member of this group of earnest, loving
spirits. Gentol[a:] ēman[a:], you are devoting yourself to a grander,
a loftier mission than you have yet been made to understand. Myriad
spirits of many planetary spirit realms eagerly, anxiously, hopefully
watch its progress. From star to star a message has been heralded,
summoning angel hosts to unite with us in a mighty effort to tear
asunder the dense veil of materialism which so long has blinded the
eyes of Ento's despairing ones. To come in the might of their love
and wisdom, that they may strengthen our hands and make firm our
footsteps, while we strive to bring to the children of Ento a knowledge
of continuous existence. In answer to this message, angel hosts are
combining their forces to aid us in the momentous hour which swiftly
approaches. In that hour your spirit senses will be so unfolded that
then you will comprehend what now you but dimly perceive. And may
divinest influences aid us in this, as in all righteous undertakings.
Gentola--I well know that I do not understand the supreme aim of what
you and these friends are pleased to term our mission. It is my nature
to trust all, or not at all, so, implicitly, I trust you and them,
believing that whatever information may, for the time, be withheld
from me, will be for a kind and wise purpose. At present I am more
interested in what you may tell me of yourself and brother than in what
may be the special object of bringing me to Ento.
Inidora--Our friends approving, it will afford me pleasure to make
Genessano and myself better known to you. I regret that I do not
know your language or you mine but, through our kind interpreter,
De L'Ester, we may arrive at a mutual understanding. We are sons of
Genessano Allis Immo, a former governor of the province of Ondû, and
of Camariss[a:], his wife. My brother, Genessano, is but two years
younger than myself, and since his birth seldom have we been separated.
Since passing to our spirit world, at times certain duties have sent us
far apart, but ever our mutual affection hastens our return to each
other's presence. How long have we been on the spirit side? Nearly
four centuries of our time. I passed from my physical body first and
almost suddenly, and the memory of that hour saddens me even now.
As the nearness of approaching death grew into dread certainty, my
brother and I frantically clung to each other, our despair that we
were about to part to meet no more, finding expression in grievous
sobs and moans. Even while Genessano held me in his arms, our voices
blending in entreaties that Andûman[a:] might stay the coming of Phra
(death) the cruel messenger, my spirit departed from the physical body
and I was received by our dear parents and friends to be borne into
our spirit realms and to my own place. I find no words to express my
overwhelming surprise and joy when I at last realized that I still
lived, that my adored parents held me to their hearts in rapture
unspeakable; that dreaded death was but a birth into a higher life.
Aye, life, life, life forevermore. Then very soon we joyfully realized
that ere long our beloved one, our Genessano, would be with us. Yes,
surely he would be with us, who would watch and wait for him. Often the
memory of that wondrous time comes to me and so fills me with ecstatic
exultation, that had I at my command the combined voices of all the
angelic hosts I would strive to fill the universe with the amazing, the
priceless message, life is continuous, life is continuous, for spirit
is indestructible and unchanging, as is God, who is spirit, and all
that is is an expression of the One Divine Being. We waited and watched
for the release of this dear brother, our Genessano, for we were aware
that his despair that he was left alone and that never again would he
behold the forms and faces of his beloved ones was fast sapping his
vital force and that soon his breaking heart would be stilled and he
would be with us. I was not yet strong enough to go to him, but our
beloved parents ministered to him, and when he was freed they bore him
to his beautiful spirit home, where I awaited him. Oh, the rapture
of that moment, when again I gazed upon the dear, familiar face and
form of my brother, and the still greater rapture, when his slowly
unclosing eyes rested upon our adored parents, then, in indescribable
bewilderment upon me. Not yet could he realize the wonder that had
occurred. As though he were dreaming, he murmured: "I--ah--I thought
I--was dying, I thought--Inidor[a:], my brother Inidor[a:]--leaned
over me, and my--But I dream--I only--dream. I shall see him no
more--no more." I stooped and kissed his lips, and he smiled, again
murmuring, "I dream--I dream." Again I kissed him, crying to him our
old time greeting, "Lohaû, lohaû, Genessano." In extreme amazement
and perturbation, and with widely-opened, affrighted eyes, he gazed
into the faces of our parents, and then into mine, and as he gazed his
wonder grew, but not his comprehension of the marvellous change which
had come to him. Tremblingly, incoherently, he cried, "Father, mother,
Inidor[a:]--oh, pitiful Gods, deceive me not. Do I yet live? Have not I
died? Phra, Phra, come quickly and end this dream, which bewilders me
with its alluring unreality, which"---- Again, in joyous tones I cried,
"Lohaû, Genassano, lohaû," and into his dear eyes grew an expression
of recognition and of joy so unspeakable that, as he reached toward us
his trembling hands, no words fell from his lips, but on his radiant
face was the smile of one arisen from the depths of despair to the very
heights of supremest bliss. Then came to him the full realization that
we his dearest ones were embracing him, that our tears and laughter,
our endearing words, were a joyous, a blessed reality. Ah, Gentol[a:],
you who have ever known that life is continuous, can little comprehend
the depth of the unutterable despair of a people ardent in their
loving, constant in their affection, but without even a thought that
life may not end with death of the body. But the hour is coming,
quickly coming, when, through a knowledge of the glorious truth of a
conscious continuity of existence, the shadows ever brooding over the
lives of our people shall forever flee away.
If I have spoken at too great length I pray you pardon me. Could you
speak the planetary language, which, in your present but partly freed
state, you do not remember, we would not be obliged to tax the patience
of our comrades. As it is I find myself at a disadvantage and must beg
De L'Ester's forbearance.
De L'Ester--Make no apologies, I am at your and Gentol[a:]'s service.
As we shall await the return of the family, I suggest that you shall
relate to us whatever you may know concerning this gigantic race.
Inidora--With pleasure. Long previous to, and during the life of our
father, Genessano Allis Immo, this region was a portion of the Province
of Ondû, of which, as these friends are aware, my father was rûh[a:]
(governor). Later it became, and at this time is, the southernmost
region of the Province of Esvenēmo. While yet it was a portion of the
Province of Ondû, our father resolved to visit it, and in such ways
as might appear best, add to the well being of its inhabitants, of
whom little was known. Calling together a number of learned persons,
artisans and laborers, he prepared for the journey. With the eager
curiosity of a boy I begged for and received from my ever indulgent
parents permission to accompany the expedition, which, in an uneventful
manner, soon arrived at our destination. We found the country well
watered and fertile, and its inhabitants, the Kenēto Soûvanallo,
a gentle, hospitable and industrious race, owning great herds of
animals, and cultivating some land, but not to the extent or so well
as they do now. They occupied rather rudely constructed wooden houses,
which imperfectly protected them from inclement weather, and their
clothing was as rude as their dwellings. As it was for the purpose of
teaching Souvanallos better modes of living that our father had come
to them, he had brought cloths and stores of various materials which
he thought might become useful. Artisans and laborers soon throughout
the country erected stone dwellings and constructed furniture suited
to the simple needs of the people. The women were taught to design and
make garments of a better fashion than they wore, and to prepare food
according to more highly civilized ideas. More thorough communication
was established between the singularly isolated race and the different
provincial governments, and for the elevation of the people schools
were more perfectly organized, in which religious instruction, an
understanding of the laws, industrial arts and educational branches
should be taught. Without exception the people were found eager and
fairly apt in receiving instruction, and while witnessing the result
of his expenditure of time and means our dear father felt himself
highly gratified and more than repaid. When, after the lapse of more
than half a year he turned his face homeward, he experienced profound
satisfaction in the assurance that he had sowed good seed in a prolific
soil.
Once, previous to our passing into our spirit world, Genessano and I,
impelled by both interest and curiosity, visited this region. Great was
our surprise and pleasure to learn of the rapid progress made by this
race. Truly our father had sowed his seed in a prolific soil. Up to
the time of his coming among them they rarely had come in contact with
their highly civilized neighbors, only, indeed, when their necessities
obliged them to barter their wool and pelts for such commodities as
their simple tastes and wants required. After the lapse of but a few
years we found them occupying comfortable, and in many instances,
well appointed homes, their newly acquired liking for the luxuries of
their neighbors having accelerated their progress in many directions.
Previous to the visit of our father only rude vehicles drawn by animals
were used for draught and other purposes; now we found well made
roadways, modern carriages and well tilled fields, yielding grains,
vegetables and fruits in abundance. Clothing of a finer texture had
replaced the former coarse and badly fashioned garments, and the people
were earnestly striving for education, and the niceties of polite
conduct generally were observed.
Through various sources we have learned that still they are a wholly
pastoral people. Nowhere throughout their country is there a city, town
or village. There are depots where Air transports deliver and receive
freight and travellers, but about these depots there are only the
necessary officials and assistants. As an illustration of the average
condition of this race this family has been selected. There are others
of larger means and finer culture, others still of smaller means who
are refined and well informed. Of all it may be said that they are good
citizens, and the good citizen must be a man of many virtues.
De L'Ester--The family are returning, and in a very hilarious mood.
Across the meadow a party of three men and two women also come
this way. Giantess waves them a welcome and calls, "Sistû, ēmanos,
sistû," and they quicken their steps. Gentol[a:], have you ever seen
an antelope? Yes? Well, Giant carries in his arms a very similar
creature. Its large, beautiful eyes are full of alarm, and it bleats
and struggles to escape, but Giant is not a sensitive person, and
its bleatings and struggles do not appeal to him, for while Giantess
and the visitors exchange greetings, he coolly cuts its throat and
dexterously removes its skin.
The ladies have retired to the house, leaving the gentlemen to the
society of Giant, who proceeds to dress the slain rimoh, meanwhile
exchanging with them views upon the topics of the day, which indicates
that though they live somewhat apart from the world they are interested
and informed as to its movements. Poor rimoh is in readiness for the
attention of the cook, and Giant, escorted by his friends, bears him to
the waiting Hildian, who smilingly approves of the appearance of his
remains, which she quickly dismembers and places in a large cooking
vessel, adds a quantity of vegetables, seasoning and water, covers
the vessel closely and suspends it over the fire. Now, with quite an
air, she prepares a pudding. We will hope that the family and guests
may possess good digestive power, for what with sweets, spices, fruits
and other ingredients, it promises to be a rich and savory compound.
Giant fills the brazier with glowing coals, on which Giantess deposits
the capacious vessel containing the pudding, and having gotten this
important feature of the feast off her mind, she busily arranges the
table and supervises a beverage which Giant is brewing, the guests
looking on with evident interest and approval. There are juices of
fruits, honey and spices, over which he pours boiling water, closing
the lid of the great jug to prevent the escape of the spice-laden
steam. The combined odors of the stew, the pudding and the fragrant
beverage are so alluring that Fenēt[a:], who, on our entrance prudently
retired to his lair, cautiously crawls out but keeps close to his
mistress, regarding us with evident distrust and aversion.
Gentol[a:], you were wondering if these people use bread. In this
high heaped platter of small, nice-looking loaves is a reply to your
query. Giantess is preparing a batter of meal and milk, which she
pours into the stew, stirs it about and removes it from the fire. With
a large fork she lifts the meat on to a huge platter and ladles the
gravy over it. Into another platter she ladles the vegetables and bears
to the table the steaming viands. The pudding being done to a turn
is placed in the centre of the feast, flanked by bowls of honey and
confections of fruits, and now Giantess politely and very cordially
says: "Emēntos, rimoh ouman dû ran[a:] dos lito, passen tento ēvossû."
In your language, Gentol[a:], the sense of the invitation would be:
"Friends, rimoh and we wish you to partake of our hospitality." Giant
sits at one end, Giantess at the other end of the table. The guest of
honor is the white-haired, white-bearded giant at Giantess's left side,
the remaining guests occupying the side of the table on her right.
The children, who have quietly entered, sit on the opposite side. All
being seated, Giant fills the drinking cups and Giantess serves the
meal, which evidently meets with flattering appreciation. Fenēt[a:]
has not been neglected, and, as he carefully finishes the remains of a
bountiful supply of stew, he regards us apprehensively, and retreats
under the table.
Leaving these kindly disposed, gentle humans to the enjoyment of the
good things, they regard as having been specially provided for them by
Andûman[a:], the Creator of all things, we will bid them adieu.
Gentol[a:], George and Inez will bear you to your Earth home and we
will attend to a duty demanding our presence elsewhere. But our loving
thoughts will keep us in touch with you until we shall meet again.
George--Come, sister, rest your hands on our shoulders. You require
less assistance than formerly. As you are but slightly exhausted
we need not hasten. How do we move through space? That I cannot
demonstrate to your present understanding. No words can convey to you
that which is outside your sense of realization. Not until you shall
again become a wholly freed spirit will your consciousness compass this
and other marvels. So rest satisfied and await such knowledge as in
the nature of events must ere long come to you. No, I do not mean in
a month or a year, but after your work shall be ended. Inez, dear, we
will pause for a little.
Yonder, Gentol[a:], is our planet. See how its luminous envelope pulses
and palpitates as though imprisoning the throbbing heart of some living
thing. Imagine some of your learned astronomers, with one or more of
your great telescopes, out here in space; do you not think that through
their observations they might arrive at some surprising conclusions?
Were you less sensitive to possible scientific criticism, Bruno and
others might use your organism for a grand purpose, and we are hoping
that you may gain sufficient confidence in yourself and spirit friends
to allow them to give through you some facts now only guessed at.
Can you realize that beyond that luminous veil is your home? It is not
surprising that you cannot, for I, whose quickened senses are more
acute than your own, can scarcely realize that once on the swiftly
flying globe I, too, dwelt. Where? In England, on an estate near
the banks of the Thames. Heretofore no opportunity has favored my
acquainting you with the story of my Earth life. Now I will briefly
relate it.
For services rendered their sovereign some of my ancestors were
rewarded with wealth and distinction. Thus the members of our family
were regarded as eminently respectable Commoners. My father, who was in
the army, was engaged in the War of the Revolution. At its close he
returned from America to England and soon afterwards suddenly passed
to the spirit side, leaving my dear mother a young and handsome widow.
Some years later, when I was nearly sixteen years old, she became
the wife of a titled gentleman, and in less than one year she, too,
passed to the spirit world, leaving me to the care of my stepfather,
a kind and honorable man. A year later, with a party of youths I went
boating on the river Thames. Some of the lads, in a mischievous mood,
began rocking the boat from side to side, the remonstrances of the
more prudent ones only serving to render them more reckless. One more
heedless than the others, stood up and shouting, "Here we go," gave
such an impetus to the rocking boat that it was capsized and all were
thrown into the water. Some of the party could swim, and thus saved
themselves and assisted others to the shore. I had nearly reached it
when I discovered that the lad who had caused the catastrophe was
drowning, and I turned about to rescue him. Twice he had gone under,
and as he again came to the surface I seized him by his hair, hoping to
sustain him and myself until assistance should arrive. In his frantic
struggling he caught me about the neck, and I being too exhausted to
release myself, we both were drowned. My quickly freed spirit was by
its own gravity borne to a realm suited to my condition, and there
my dear parents immediately found me and with loving ministrations
assisted my recovery from the terror of my sudden change from Earth
life to the spirit world. Subsequently, they also assisted me in my
efforts to complete my mortal education, which as you are aware, is a
requisite of spiritual growth.
I shall pass over the time intervening between my entrance into the
world of spirits and the coming of your infant sister, Inez. Being my
soul mate, my dear mother brought her into our home, where she has ever
remained. When your and Inez's mother came to our side of life she of
course, claimed her daughter. Inez, with a joyful recognition of their
relationship, and with the natural love of a child for its mother,
was drawn hither and thither, but in the end the law of affinity was
recognized by both mother and child, as eventually it became recognized
by all spirits, and Inez remained with me. Now you know who I am, and
how it is that I am your brother, George Brooke.
Yes, that is Earth's satellite, the little planet Luna, and it occurs
to me that from our vantage ground we behold what no astronomer or
other mortal has ever seen or ever will see through the medium of
mortal vision. Desolate and well nigh inanimate it indeed is, and
in coming time, atom by atom, its disintegrated particles will be
attracted to other combinations of matter, and ages hence a period must
arrive when its shadowy valleys, its frozen waters, its toppling crags
and cavernous depths will no longer afford a spectacle for the learned
or the curious. It is the purpose of our Band to some time afford you
another series of visits to Luna, so you will pardon me for declining
to now approach it more nearly.
Gentola--It is I who should apologize for having made the request, but
I so dimly recall what was shown me, that I am curious to again observe
the peculiar features of Earth's satellite. May I ask if your Band
always journeys together?
George--Always, unless one or more may be detailed for some special
duty or mission. Yes, together, we repeatedly have visited Venus,
scintillating yonder like a great diamond on the bosom of space.
Willingly I would tell you of the grandly beautiful planet, but as I am
aware that our Band has under advisement certain plans relating to it,
in which it is desired that you shall participate, I do not consider
it advisable to further speak of it. My dear sister, your mortal
existence will yet be so prolonged that you will take many starward
journeys with us.
Has it occurred to you that this is January 4th, 1893? No? It would
be well that all mortals should cease setting up milestones along the
roadway of life. On our side of life there is only the ever present
now. Why? Because, to a degree, spirits realize what mortal mind cannot
grasp, the meaning of Eternity.
Gentola--Have spirits a knowledge of how long ago Venus or any of
yonder shining worlds came into existence as worlds?
George--Not the slightest. Why, my sister, the immensity of time that
has elapsed since Venus or any of the planets of our Solar System
came into our galaxy of worlds is inconceivable, yet, compared with
eternity, their birth was as of yesterday. When I said that spirits
(and I do not mean all spirits) to a degree realize the _meaning_
of eternity, I do not wish you to understand that any spirit has a
conception or realization of the duration of eternity. Yes, I know
how flippantly mortals, who have no conception of either, prate of
God, of time and of eternity, yet that is less remarkable than the
stupendous egotism inducing mortals to believe that the Infinite Spirit
of an Infinite Universe became incarnated in the body of a finite
human creature, that thus to the humans of one small planet (which is
but one of a countless number of inhabited planets) certain benefits
might be secured and yet once I regarded any other religious belief as
sacrilegious. What a puerile conception of Infinity, but one on a level
with the evolvement of those entertaining it, and spirits constantly
enter the world of realities who must outgrow this and other mistaken
conceptions and in numerous instances a long time elapses before they
yield to the evidences of their experiences. _But, on both the mortal
and spiritual planes of life_ evolution goes steadily, invincibly
forward, and inevitably all grow into a clearer comprehension of truth.
Gentola--As we need not hasten our, or, rather, my return to Earth, I
should like you to tell me how spirits define time, space and spirit.
George--That which never had a beginning, and can never have an
ending, may be denominated Eternity or infinite duration of time,
and what is termed time as a separation of periods for the purpose
of making definite statements, or for marking definite occurrences.
Understand, I now am considering your question from a mortal, not a
spirit standpoint, for, on the spirit side, we are not conscious, in
the sense that mortals are conscious, of the divisions of time. As
neither time or space are dimensional, they can have no real existence
or recognition, so we do not assume to define that which is not.
For purposes of convenience, conscious mortal mind takes cognizance
of phenomena, _but the subconscious self, the Ego, recognizes only
realities_, hence, unlike mortal mind (which is the intelligent human
animal soul), bears no relation to the phenomena of so termed time and
space. Thus, from a spirit view, neither time or space are definable.
Neither can angel or archangel define spirit, yet all spirits
progressed beyond the first, or Earth sphere, are conscious of their
spirit being. We are taught by those of higher spheres, and our own
experiences teach the same truth, that every progressive step affords
the high reward of a clearer consciousness that all spirit entities are
the expressions of the One Infinite Spirit, and are one and inseparable
from their origin. Hence, is not it reasonable to assume that if all
spirits in or apart from physical bodies are inseparable parts of the
Infinite Spirit, vicarious atonement for sin, which is a misnomer for
undevelopment, is an uncalled for proceeding.
Gentola--I rejoice to say that I have outgrown that belief, but I
endured years of agony of mind while passing through the process. But,
George, do the peoples of other planets entertain religious beliefs
similar to those of Christians, Hindus and others of Earth's peoples?
George--None of the peoples of planets we have visited entertain a
belief corresponding with the dogmas involving the incarnation and
crucifixion of God. Human sacrifices are a concomitant of religious
superstitions of the crude civilizations or dominant ecclesiasticisms
of many planets. Animal sacrifices of a less cruel, hence of a more
advanced state, offerings of grains, fruits, flowers and objects
of value, of a still higher spiritual unfoldment, while devotional
aspirations and a desire to benefit others, indicate a tendency toward
rational views of the possible attributes of the Infinite Good.
_All spiritualized humans are of necessity religious_, and all adore
such gods as the degrees of their evolvement fashion. Our Earth peoples
have fashioned gods suited to their various immature conceptions, and
for the selfish purpose of having their real or fancied wants supplied.
All the divinities of all religions are the exact indicators of the
spiritual status of their worshippers, and as the peoples unfold higher
spirituality they will oblige their gods to keep pace with them. So
will it continue to be and in some coming age Earth's peoples will have
so evolved as to recognize but one God--the Infinite, All Pervading
Spirit, in whom all things live, move and have their being.
Yes, truly, the Entoans in nearly all ways are more highly evolved
than are our Earth peoples, and when the bonds of ecclesiasticism and
superstitious beliefs, shall have been broken they will emerge from
spiritual darkness into light, casting from them forever the shackles
which have held them in slavery to a dreary, deadening materialism.
Gentola--If I should pass to the spirit side, would that interfere with
what you all term our mission?
George--It would prolong the night of Ento's spiritual darkness. Our
and other spirit Bands have been, and now are, endeavoring to prepare
sensitives for this and similar missions, but as yet we can only use
you for this special work. We find you fitted for it quite beyond our
hopes and expectations, and now feel assured of entire success. Success
that means life for death, joy for sorrow, to the present and coming
generations of Ento.
Not yet, my sister, will you come to our side of life, not until your
work shall be finished. We have journeyed so leisurely that night
shadows are falling over your city of St. Louis. Now we will descend,
and in good time, for your husband is rapping at your door. A hasty
good-bye until we again come for you.