CONCERNING THE ESKIMOS.
De L'Ester--Madame, we offer you our warmest greetings, and are highly
gratified to perceive that a night of profound sleep has quite restored
your exhausted vitality. We have felt somewhat solicitous as to the
result of yesterday's prolonged stay on Ento, and are delighted that
you have not suffered through our imprudence.
Gentola--I retired early and fell asleep immediately. This morning I
feel quite restored, and am ready for our starward journey.
De L'Ester--Then at once we will depart for Ento, where in the City of
Palms, nearby the palm tree fountain, our friends will meet us. For a
reason we shall remain there for perhaps an hour, and Von Humboldt will
speak to you in relation to a question you recently asked.
Gentola--Another question to which you kindly may reply, is, do Spirits
released from the physical body find their perceptions greatly enlarged?
De L'Ester--Yes, if sufficiently unfolded to realize that they
are on the Spirit side, and, alas, myriads of Spirits are not so
unfolded. Spirits progressed to an advanced plane of Being, are so
in harmony with the Infinite Mind, that they know all relating to
that plane, hence, in a sense, are partakers of that mind. But we
near Ento, and--yes, yonder swiftly revolving, tiny moons, Entol[a:]
and Emantol[a:] are interesting objects, the more so as they are a
terrible menace to Ento. Why? For the reason that some time, aye,
at any time, one and the other will rush onto and rend the bosom of
the mother who gave them birth. At another time you will learn more
concerning those frisky satellites. Yonder near the fountain, our
friends are observing our arrival, and Inez and Bernard are coming to
meet us. Hail, hail, bright ones.
Bernard--Mother, dear, it makes me so happy to be by your side.
Gentola--And I, dear son, cannot express my joy that once again your
strong arms embrace me. Yes, from afar we saw you and this sweet sister
Inez approaching.
De L'Ester--Friends, we greet you all, and hope for favorable word from
D[a:]o.
Inez--Within a half hour I have returned from a visit to Vallo[a:].
Save that her vital energy gradually decreases, and her Spirit vision
grows clearer the situation is unchanged.
De L'Ester--Then while we await--I should say that we shall remain here
for an hour, and you, Von Humboldt, kindly will occupy the time by
replying to Gentol[a:]'s question of yesterday.
Von Humboldt--Madame, in replying to your question, relating to a
remark of mine, concerning a race of comparatively diminutive Entoans,
I shall include other of your unanswered questions. The poles of
Planets inclined as are those of Ento and Earth receive comparatively
a small amount of solar heat, hence, the crust surrounding the poles
of either newly formed Planet, cooled and thickened at an earlier
period than did areas nearer their equators. In time the areas known
to us as the north and south temperate zones of either Planet became
fitted for the germination and habitations of earliest life-forms,
which as you are aware first appeared in the tepid waters of the new
worlds. Man, being a warm blooded animal, in early ages on either
Planet, his natural habitat was in their warmer divisions, which
in the fullness of time became suited for the entertainment of the
evolved, Spiritualized human, who through succeeding exigencies of
existence, has learned to adjust himself to manifold conditions which
may apply to the race under consideration who, since a remote time,
have occupied localities extending from the southern limit of Ento's
south temperate zone, to near the south pole. Owing to the rigor
of the climate, and their occupation of mining, their habitations,
like those of all Ento polar peoples, are subterranean and very
comfortable and attractive abodes they are. Climatic conditions
somewhat incline this race to an indulgence in flesh food, which with
the products of all lands, Air Transports abundantly supply them. The
summers of Ento's arctic and antarctic circles being, what may be
termed, phenomenally mild, in the spring the released waters of the
polar regions teem with myriad life forms upon which the diminutive
D[a:]hov[a:]s and their polar neighbors largely subsist. In those
antarctic localities are vast deposits of precious and other minerals,
and of various gems, all of which find disposition in the marts of the
Ento world. Notwithstanding their inhospitable climatic surroundings,
the D[a:]hov[a:]s number some millions of educated, refined persons,
whose occupation in no way interferes with their social standing. The
fair-skinned, blond-haired, blue-eyed persons whom frequently you have
observed were D[a:]hov[a:]s, who are greatly inclined to travel, the
facilities of Air Transportation encouraging them in their desire for
change of scene. Their average height is about six feet, and they are
a handsome featured and finely proportioned race. The average height
of other fair-skinned Ento races is about six feet ten inches, which
is quite one foot less than that of the dark-hued Orientals, of whom
our friends, Inidor[a:] and Genessano are examples. Yes, it appears
singular that, though genial climes invite them elsewhere, humans
submit themselves to such inhospitable environments; but, in their
affairs force of circumstances and an inclination for certain pursuits
or gains are forceful potencies. The natural tendency of the genus homo
is away from, not toward, inclement regions, but through upheavals or
subsidences of portions of planets, or perhaps through the fortunes of
wars, surviving peoples, in opposition to tendencies and desires, may
be compelled to submit to the unavoidable.
You have expressed surprise over the absence of social distinctions
among the Entoans, who consider labor of whatever kind as elevating.
Very properly they regard idleness as a species of crime against the
common weal, and only when incapacitated, do either men or women cease
to labor either with head or hands. They understand that all well
balanced minds require a certain amount of active occupation, and that
idleness induces pernicious conduct. One of their aphorisms is, to
labor righteously is to emulate the example of the ever active Deific
Ones, and I quite agree with them. If instead of the yearly expenditure
of millions of money for the maintenance of armies of men engaged in
murdering each other, and for the erection and support of prisons,
reformatories, almshouses and the like, Earth's several governments
would, as does the government of Ento, oblige every able-bodied man and
woman to engage in some useful occupation, how quickly would poverty,
degradation and discontent disappear and the wealth now worse than
wasted would produce great and beneficent public utilities, would
erect and maintain majestic institutions for the free education of
all peoples, would supply elevating amusements for the masses, and
also would construct and maintain public baths, gymnasiums, excellent
roadways, in short, all the admirable features of the civilization of
Ento, which yet is but a promise of a higher, grander civilization of a
coming time.
No, we have not found any planet overpopulated. When sufficiently
evolved, humans elevate the offices of paternity and maternity above
the merely animal plane; then children are not inconsiderately
begotten. You may not have observed that, in Ento families, seldom are
there more than four children; generally there are no more than two.
Yes, certainly, a period will arrive when Earth's peoples will have
advanced far beyond their present uncivilized condition. Really
civilized peoples do not murder each other, do not in any manner
wilfully injure each other. Though one person's opinions may differ
from those of another, civilized peoples do not, for that reason,
fly at each other's throats. Everywhere civilized peoples do as they
wish others to do unto them. So you may perceive that even Earth's
most advanced peoples have not wholly emerged from barbarism; no, not
even those who pompously profess to follow the precepts of Earth's
Divinest Teacher, the meek and lowly Nazarene, have arrived at a clear
perception of what constitutes Christian or other civilization, else
they, too, would be so meek and lowly as to shrink from attempting
to force upon others their very crude beliefs and superstitious
observances. Yes, like all freed spirits, I have found occasions to
change my views, and to endeavor to outgrow my errors.
Unlooked for occurrences having brought about changes in our programme,
for the present we must forego the pleasure of showing you and Bernard
certain interesting portions of Ento's South Temperate and Antarctic
regions; but we anticipate that this slight mention of some of the
inhabitants of Antarctica may stimulate in you a desire for future
exploration in their direction. I yet have some moments I may devote to
you.
Gentola--Then will you inform me as to the origin of the Eskimos and
other polar races of our planet? Are they direct descendants of a
primitive ancestry.
Von Humboldt--Neither the Eskimos or other polar peoples are _direct_
descendants of primitive man. Of course, all peoples, indirectly, are
descendants of early races, whose low, retreating foreheads, misshapen
forms and features offered slight promise of evolvement into the
shapely humans of to-day. Though the Eskimo is somewhat uncouth of
form and feature, compared with primitive man he is a God. Are you
aware that when primitive men first essayed to walk erect they used
as a means of support and for offense and defense, clubs, which to
this day are perpetuated in the staff or walking stick? As the feat of
walking erect is accomplished through a series of threatened falls and
accomplished recoveries, primitive men do not in a day learn to walk
unaided, and from the period when through infoldment of the Divine
Spark man becomes a conscious, living soul, until unaided he walks
erect, time may be reckoned by ages. Yes, in a sense, all humans are
descendants of primitive races, but so far removed from their primitive
ancestry, that the fact is unrealizable. No, madame, in no sense is
the human related to the anthropoidal races. Through environment
and survival of the fittest, all life forms continuously evolve and
re-evolve into higher expression, but man alone is capable of becoming
Spiritualized. Constantly the positive law of evolution impels all
life forms onward and upward toward higher planes of existence; it is
quite as true that the little less forceful negative law of degeneracy
is a perpetual obstacle and menace to human advancement. By some of
Earth's advanced thinkers these opposing laws are recognized, filling
their minds with disquiet and apprehension for those who, besotted by
the love of power and luxury, are approaching the line of demarcation
between progress and degeneracy.
Madame, the Eskimos and other peoples of Earth's frigid regions are
descendants of races once of vast numbers, who, in an early age,
inhabited _the then_ temperate northern and southern climes; but
Earth's crust cooling, thickening and radiating an ever lessening
degree of internal heat, its great fiery heart could not perpetually
vivify its extremities, and at the poles gradually ice and snow
accumulated, the preponderant accumulation being at the North Pole.
Slowly, but surely, human and animal races were impelled toward the
equator, multiplying prodigiously, and warring upon each other with
ferocity indescribable. Your scientists have not yet declared the
certain existence of preglacial man, thus my assertion that Earth has
experienced two glacial horrors, and that previous to the last one the
genus homo was distributed over nearly all portions of the inhabitable
globe is not likely to be received as a conclusive statement, which
however is a correct one. It also is true that the survivors of the
catastrophe were as mariners cast upon unknown shores, for they
and other life forms experienced such a redistribution that your
ethnologists and naturalists are unable to solve some problems which,
on passing to the Spirit side, will be made plain to them. The remote
progenitors of the Eskimos and other peoples of the frigid north and
south were survivors of the awful calamity which swept out of physical
existence entire races of humans and many species of animal and
vegetable life. Gradually, through isolation and extreme privations,
the descendants of those remote ancestors experienced nearly arrested
mental and physical development, and until comparatively a recent
period, they were as lost members of the human family. Through
inherited qualities and long usage they are so inured to their wretched
condition that to a degree they do not realize its discomforts; but
steadily advancing agencies are approaching their lands, and at a not
very remote period their _present_ inhabitants will have disappeared,
and for the same reason that Ento's polar regions are, I may say, well
populated, ere long Earth's polar regions will sustain a large number
of inhabitants.
Gentola--Sir, I thank you for your replies to my not very coherent
questions. You are aware that I have not been permitted to acquire
such knowledge as would have unfitted my skeptical mind for the work
in which we are engaged, but certainly I do not doubt the correctness
of your statements. If the hour has not quite expired I should like to
ask----
Von Humboldt--The hour has expired, and a pleasant surprise for you is
at hand.
Gentola--Truly, sir, this is a pleasant surprise, and with my heart in
my hand I greet you. It has been a long time since you bade us adieu.
Ha-Moufi--Gentol[a:] ēman[a:], though absent in Spirit not so have I
been in thought. And you, dear friends, how gladly I exchange with you
loving embraces and words of kindliest greeting. You are aware that
your movements and events relating to the Mission are known in our
and other Spirit Worlds, and anxious hearts and eager eyes hope and
watch for the success of the near culmination of the struggle between
Spiritual and material forces. I have longed to be with you that I
might share with you the preparation for and the anticipation of the
approaching Spiritual enlightenment of my people. Scarcely have I been
able to restrain my impatience, and only that my duties as a teacher
have fully occupied my time, ere now I would have been with you. Now I
rejoice to say that I shall be with you until the culmination of the
Mission. But where is Zenest[a:] H[a:]o? I had thought to find him with
you.
De L'Ester--I am pleased to say that soon he will join us, and also
I desire to assure you that in again having you with us, our delight
quite equals your own. Continually we have missed your genial presence
and engaging conversation; so indeed you are more than welcome. Ere now
Zenest[a:] and Aaron Poole should have arrived; doubtless they soon
will appear. You have been informed that in the person of a gentle
girl Re-embodied on this Planet Inidor[a:] has found his other Self.
Frequently Genessano visits them and gives favorable reports of their
harmonious relations. When we shall be summoned to D[a:]o Inidor[a:],
too, will join us.
What can so delay Zenest[a:] and Poole? Even as I speak of our wingless
Angels they are approaching, and as usual are as radiant and joyous as
two Seraphs. Ah, you tardy ones, you have completely upset our plans.
Through your and Ha-Moufi's simultaneous arrival we had thought to
overwhelm Gentol[a:].
Poole--Should we offer the whys and wherefores of our late arrival you
would not find yourselves edified. So I shall only say that it was
unavoidable. Gentol[a:], I am delighted to learn that your interest
in these journeys from Earth to Ento and still more in our Mission
of loving endeavor increases and also I am delighted to perceive
that your Psychic Senses are unfolding and that your vital energy
is not yet greatly lessened, all of which rejoices all of us. From
your dearest ones in our Spirit World I bear to you fondest greetings
and measureless love, which, with my own, I express in this embrace.
But tell me, my sister, have you at any time regretted having given
yourself to this grand Mission?
Gentola--Indeed no. Not for a moment have I regretted that I have
been chosen as an instrument through whom loving Spirits may bring
to a sorrowful people the priceless knowledge of the continuity of
existence. It is true that such constant association with Spirits
who have outgrown the frailties common to the physical plane has not
enhanced my enjoyment of mortal existence, in which I find myself so
painfully sensitive that I shrink from much that previous to this
experience, scarcely, if at all, disturbed me. Still I do not regret
having given myself to this service, for through it I have learned that
I am my brothers' keeper, and that from this duty neither I or any
one can, if they would, escape. Having learned this lesson, I cannot,
if I would, escape knowledge of the injustice, cruelty, ignorance and
degradation prevailing on our Sorrowful Star, and at thought of it my
Soul grows faint. You assure me that through evolution Earth's immature
peoples will, as have the Entoans, become elevated in their ideas of
right, and I do not doubt it, but in the meantime one must lament the
miseries of to-day. Nearly all of Earth's peoples believe more or
less in a continuity of existence, in Heaven, Hell or in some unknown
condition of rewards and punishments, yet neither that or any other
belief prevents them from persecuting and even killing each other. How
then is it that possessing neither a belief or a hope of continued
existence the Entoans are so far advanced in all that constitutes
a high standard of ethics, and is it thought that a knowledge of
continuous existence will render them a more just or moral people?
De L'Ester--Observation of the peoples of various Planets, including
Earth and Ento, leads us to the conclusion that religious beliefs
exert but a very limited influence upon the inner life and conduct of
either individuals or peoples, such limited influence being of a reflex
character. Certainly Spiritual ideals are the outgrowth of evolution of
individuals, and in a tardier degree of peoples, and are the natural
sequences of the unfoldment of the infolded Soul. Morality is not a
grace of some mental process, but a Principle inherent in the Soul of
man. It is the objective consciousness of subjective righteousness,
and when the Soul and the Ego are in harmonious relation each with the
other a high moral standard is the result. Spiritual ideals enunciated
by such exalted men as Buddha, Jesus, Confucius and others, were, and
yet are, in advance of the masses who do not comprehend them, and by
some who dimly catch their meaning they serve as ignes fatui with which
they mislead the minds of the ignorant. Here and there are those whose
Souls are irradiated by the light of the Divine Spirit. These do not
kill, or counsel murder of their brethren, neither do they steal, or
lie, or indulge in the baser traits of the unevolved human, and in time
all of Earth's children will so evolve that gladly they will practice
Ento's golden rule, "I will do unto my neighbor as I would have my
neighbor do unto me."
No, simply a knowledge of the continuity of existence will not make
the Entoans juster or more moral, but it will bring to them happiness
immeasurable. They, as it were, now exist within a circle outside of
which is nothing. No anticipated renewal of loving ties, no reunion
with parents, with children, with consorts or friends. Naught for the
dead but perpetual Silence; naught for the living but hopeless longing
for the beloved dead, forever lost to sight, to touch, to all but
undying memories and to measureless sorrow.
Yes, ancient Ento spirits have informed us that long antecedent to the
establishment of their religious system Ento's various races held
various religious beliefs and violent religious differences were of
common occurrence. Like the peoples of our own and other planets they
created Gods on a level with their evolvement, and loyally fought for
their supremacy, but at the time of the establishment of the national
religion this chaotic condition was regulated. The creeds of the
various sects with their attendant legends, as far as practicable were
harmonized and formulated, and thus the Sacred Writings, the Ento
Confession of Faith, became the Sacred Law from which there was no
appeal. These Sacred Writings contain many admirable lessons, but so
inwrought with cruel Commandments, puerile conceptions and chimerical
legends, that during later centuries the evolved intelligence of
priests and peoples gradually has brought about a tacit disuse of rites
and ceremonials once strictly observed. The worst feature of these
Sacred Writings is the doctrine of utter annihilation of the Life
Principle, inducing in the minds of the people the hopeless attitude
of one ever walking in the shadows of death and despair, but having
outgrown some of the worst features of their religion the Entoans now
are prepared for still larger liberty of thought, and soon they will
be released from the bondage of ecclesiastical tyranny. Of course,
there are priestly zealots, who as far as they may dare, will oppose
the introduction of a new religion, but so overwhelming and universal
is the desire for relief from their ever present despair that as
thirsty travellers in a barren land eagerly the people will drink of
the life giving waters of hope and joy held to their lips by hands of
their dear ones whom they had consigned to the Silence. Gentol[a:],
you little realize the joy that will fill your Soul when you shall
behold the smileless faces of the gentle Entoans irradiated through the
consciousness that like a worn garment the dread past has fallen away
from them, and that from glorious Spirit Realms radiant Angels have
proclaimed for them life, life, life forevermore, is the heritage of
all of Andûman[a:]'s children of Ento, and of countless worlds in space.
Nay, Gentol[a:], not another question, for inevitably soon we will be
called to D[a:]o, so we must improve the hours remaining to us. There
are features of this city that would interest you and Bernard but we
must defer the pleasure to a more opportune time. I now may say to you
that the approaching climax of our Mission will not at all end it, and
although it will not be necessary that you shall continuously accompany
us, emergencies are likely to arise in which your services will be
of vital importance. At such times we may take advantage of your
presence on the Planet to observe much that now we cannot even glance
at. In pursuance of our plans we will survey other irrigated regions
and adjacent waste lands, thus you and Bernard will acquire a general
knowledge of a large portion of Ento.
Gentola--Do not make too much of my now seeing this or that. I am not
over curious and can wait for times that may be more propitious for
observing whatever may be instructive or interesting.
De L'Ester--It is my opinion that curiosity is not strictly a feminine
trait. As for you, you are incurious to a fault. You would have been an
admirable Eve.
Gentola--I am not so sure of that, but certainly I never would have
looked at, much less have listened to such a monstrosity as a talking
serpent.
George--Gentol[a:], Bernard is resolved to share with me the pleasure
of assisting you. Dear boy, you grow so strong that I suspect you soon
will oust me altogether.
Bernard--I wish I were strong enough to assist you unaided, and,
mother, dear, soon I shall be.
De L'Ester--If you two boys have arrived at a decision as to who shall
assist our traveller, we will rise a little higher so as to gain a
more comprehensive view of this large and very beautiful city, which
is one of the greatest manufacturing centres of Ento. Below us now is
an extensive shipyard where are built and launched into that extensive
Basin many of Ento's largest vessels; thence they find their ways
through nearly all the navigable waters of the planet. Toward the
southeast you may observe a series of large buildings. In them are
constructed Air Transports and various motor vehicles.
As you have seen many rich silken stuffs it may interest you to learn
that this city is the principal centre of Ento's silk industry. Those
wide spreading groves, to which at times we have called your attention,
afford sustenance for the myriads of cocoon producing worms, which,
structurally, are exactly like the silkworm of our Planet. Zenest[a:]
informs us that since very ancient times the silk industry has for the
most part been in the hands of certain peoples, and as an inheritance
is transmitted from generation to generation of the same families who
have become experts in all pertaining to it. Dyeing processes are
similar to some in use on Earth, though Ento chemists also produce
exquisite dyes from atmospheric substances as yet unknown to chemists
of our Planet, but during the coming century in this direction they
will make surprising discoveries.
On the further bank of the river, embowered amid great palmlike trees
and other greenery is a group of imposing buildings, their white
walls and domed summits presenting a very picturesque and handsome
appearance. George, we will approach them more nearly. Gentol[a:],
in those commodious structures are housed all the homeless infirm
and homeless aged persons of this province, and truly in the fullest
sense possible it is a home, for the care of the inmates is regarded
as a Sacred trust, and they receive every attention that love and a
high sense of duty can suggest. You have been told that the Entoans
regard life as the most precious of all possessions, and that it may
be prolonged to the utmost is their chiefest desire. Those who live
to an unusual age are regarded as being specially favored by the God
Phra (death), and they receive tenderest care and marked consideration.
This and like beneficent institutions are known as Roûv[a:] nû Vastimo
Odalliss[a:][a:]. Translated into your language this would mean home
for the fortunate. Zenest[a:] says that my translation is not quite
correct. I should have said favored, not fortunate, ones.
Yes, I am aware that on our Planet, particularly among so termed
civilized peoples, there is small sympathy for such unfortunates as
fill insane asylums. In such institutions we often witness fiendish
cruelties perpetrated by semi-savage attendants upon helpless
unfortunates. Cruelty in all its manifestations is the unerring
indication of savagery, hence individuals or peoples who entertain low
views as to their duties toward the aged, the helpless and unfortunate
are still in an unevolved state and of necessity upon entering the
Spirit World will find themselves on a low plane of Being. As there is
no escape from the consequences of one's acts, the fate of undutiful
children, of unfaithful friends, of cruel and selfish guardians of
the poor and helpless is not an enviable one, for on the Spirit side,
to their lasting regret they must learn the full meaning of _personal
atonement_.
In every province are Roûv[a:] nû Vastimo Odalliss[a:][a:], and nowhere
on Ento is one man, woman or child homeless or without ample care and
kindliest protection.
What a glorious day this is. The atmosphere is vibrant with life giving
forces and how grand it is to be conscious of one's existence and of
the ever unfolding capabilities inherent in the ego. At thought of it
my exultation is beyond expression.
Gentol[a:], is not the view wonderfully fine? The engineering skill
which has so perfected the vast Irrigating and Waterways System in
itself is marvellous, all the more so when one considers the peculiar
difficulties encountered and surmounted. See that huge vessel coming
so swiftly from the northeast. Consider the enormous energy of the
motive power impelling it through the quiet Waterway at a rate of speed
unattained by the swiftest ocean steamers of our Planet.
Gentola--Certainly such results of applied electricity and of vibratory
force are amazing, and while observing vessels great and small rushing
along at what to me appears dangerous speed, continually I anticipate
accidents, which thus far have not occurred. Transports, too, traverse
the air apparently as secure as birds on wing, and great trains of
Tuzamos, at a speed that to me is appalling, come and go without
exciting more than passing attention.
De L'Ester--Naturally these features must impress you, but at this time
I cannot more than repeat that the speed and movements of all vessels
and other conveyances are carefully regulated, and that the Entoans
regard it as a supreme duty to guard from injury themselves and others.
George, that we may afford our travellers a view of W[a:]n[a:] Vinostû
yarû (expiatory fire fountain) we will move toward the northeast.
We are nearing the phenomenal marvel from which clouds of steam are
rising and violently swirling as they are dissipated in the atmosphere.
Sunbeams falling athwart the vaporous clouds tint them with rainbow
hues, and like those of a kaleidoscope, ever the shapes are changing
into new forms of loveliness. Now we perceive a boiling, bubbling
lake, at intervals pulsing upward, upward to the rim of the massive
stone wall inclosing it, and now slowly it subsides to again and again
repeat the singular movement. Once the basin of the lake was an active
volcano, but through a seismic convulsion an underground channel was
opened between it and a large spring fed lake whose volume of water
poured into the crater, whose ever lessening diameter is little more
than a mile, but whose depth is so incredible that I hesitate to state
it. Von Humboldt, will you further inform us concerning this expression
of nature's ever surpassing handiwork?
Von Humboldt--Soon after entering the Spirit World I became acquainted
with Lief Bjornson, a learned Norwegian, who informed me that
frequently he had visited this Planet, and that with some ancient
Ento Spirits he had thoroughly explored it. Also, he informed me that
among other interesting features of Ento, near the northern boundary
of the Irrigating and Waterways System, there was a hot water lake
which periodically overflowed, occasioning engineers and laborers much
annoyance and destroying all adjacent vegetation. Later on he again
visited the locality and found the lake inclosed within a substantial
wall of masonry. Through these ancient Spirits he learned that the
convulsion which converted an active volcano into a hot water lake
occurred long previous to the centralization of Ento's Government and
the Establishment of the National Religion. My natural tendencies
augmenting my curiosity I took advantage of a recent visit to the
Planet to investigate the phenomenon. The diameter of the nearly
circular lake is, as De L'Ester has said, a little over one mile, its
depth varying with the flow and ebb of its volume of boiling water,
which at regular intervals sinks downward, downward, until to mortal
vision it becomes imperceptible. During the day the pulsating lake
is at flood, but with the decline of the Sun it ebbs downward, and
twilight falls over an abyss whose depth more than equals its diameter.
As I with my Ento friends hovered over the emptied crater, listening
to the strangely uncanny noises far down in its depths we felt no
sense of surprise that in ancient as in modern times the Entoans have
shunned the lake, believing it tenanted by offending Gods, condemned by
Andûman[a:] to dwell there as an expiation of some misdemeanor. Will
our friend Hugh Miller, who has examined the geological formation of
this locality, give to us the result of his observations?
Hugh Miller--We are aware that on Ento, as on other Planets volcanic
activities afford a vent for the surplusage of interior energies, which
ever are more or less phenomenal, but as I must confine myself to our
present subject, I only shall say that a personal examination of this
locality assured me and those accompanying me, that in a remote age
in this and the adjacent region a volcanic group existed, which as
Ento's interior heat lessened, became inactive and at length this, the
greatest of the group, alone remained intermittently active, and at the
time of the seismic convulsion this was its condition. To explain its
present phenomenal features would consume more time than we can afford,
but on some other occasion, if desirable, I may do so. I, however,
may say that the energies which have levelled the once elevated cone
of this crater have obliterated all surface traces of its lesser
neighbors, whose location only Spirit vision perceives. Where was the
spring fed lake? At no great distance northward, and its extent was
from north to south about thirty miles, from east to west quite twenty
miles.
Gentola--I am greatly interested in this peculiar scene, and in what
has been said concerning it. I cannot conceive of a more beautiful
spectacle of its kind, and I can liken those volumes of heaving,
swirling, tumultuous, iridescent vapor to nothing but an enormous
fountain of all manner of jewels, tossed hither and thither in
bewildering confusion.
George--Well said, well said, Gentol[a:]. Your simile is so well
chosen, that not even my brilliant imagination is equal to conjuring
up a fitter one. Beauteous wonder, may time touch thee so lightly that
when centuries hence we again may gaze on thee not one of thy jewels
shall be missing.
De L'Ester--Bravo, bravo, George. Now we all are convinced that the
quality of your imagination and the quantity of your modesty are
equally balanced, and altogether admirable. Our chaffing at an end we
now will move southward, then eastward. Higher, George, still higher,
so that we may obtain the widest view possible of the underlying
regions and of Fondorûveh, which soon will come under our observation.
Fondorûveh (named after its founder, Tamon Fondorûveh) contains
about two hundred thousand inhabitants and possesses some of the
largest chemical works on Ento in which are prepared great quantities
of condensed foods, the product of grains, fruits, vegetables and
atmospheric substances. That statement need not so surprise you, as
some of your scientists are of the opinion that your atmosphere holds
all the elements composing your varied food supply, and in time Earth's
chemists will learn, as the Entoans have learned, how to utilize these
elements, thus greatly simplifying domestic cares, and adding to the
general welfare of the peoples. No, the Entoans do not adulterate their
food supplies. They are not given to taking or administering poisons
under another name.
Yes, these regions present a sameness of landscape, yet once the
surface was as varied as is the larger portion of our Planet. The same
forces that have levelled the surface of Ento gradually are levelling
the great snow crowned mountain chains of Earth. The towering Alps,
the vast mystery laden Himalayas, the tremendous Sierras, to mortal
mind appear as indestructible as the globe itself, yet during every
passing moment their disintegrated particles, through the agencies of
melting snows, of rains, or of tempestuous winds are being borne to all
parts of the ever changing surface of Earth. The existence of a Planet
being of such inconceivable duration, the passing of a thousand years
is as the passage of a fleecy cloud across the sky, leaving no traces
of its vanished loveliness. Ten thousand years hence the appearance
of Earth's great mountain chains will not have perceptibly changed,
yet their disintegrated particles will have filled depressions, raised
the beds of oceans and of lakes and changed the courses of all flowing
waters, and inevitably a period will arrive when the surface of Earth
will be as monotonously level as is the surface of the lands over which
we now are passing. Ere the arrival of that distant period our globe
will have lost much of its interior heat and the temperature of the
atmosphere will have become perceptibly lowered, then our equatorial
regions having lost their torrid heat will offer the highest conditions
for the further progress of the already greatly evolved peoples and
will become Centres of Civilization of which they now have but an
indefinite conception. From these Centres will radiate the accumulated
knowledge of ages, and as do the Entoans, the peoples will understand
that though knowledge is power, it may be made to serve evil purposes,
but that wisdom, the fadeless flower of Soul culture, ever is Divinely
beneficent.
Gentol[a:], we all are conscious that our reiterated instruction may,
to you, become tiresome, but through this process you now possess
a comprehensive idea of the social conditions of the Entoans, of
their high ethical standards, of their universal prosperity, of their
advanced knowledge concerning such sciences as their religion has
permitted them to investigate, of their admirable proficiency in
the various arts, and of their exceedingly lofty conception of the
love principle which permeates their entire being, rendering them so
unselfish, so ready to serve each other, so devoted to righteous deeds,
that indeed they have entered the Kingdom of Good.
For the present we will turn our attention in another direction,
for yonder is Fondorûveh, extending eastward to the boundary line
between this province, H[a:] Mûyen and that named Effondelus[a:].
Fondorûveh is to Camariss[a:] nearly an antipodal city, for since we
left Camariss[a:], though we have afforded you a comprehensive view of
the Equatorial and the North and partly of the South Temperate zones,
we constantly have been tending eastward a distance of more than five
thousand miles, and now we are nearing the present terminus of the
Irrigating and Waterways System. We do not consider it expedient to
alight in Fondorûveh, but we will pass over it slowly so that you and
our lad may perceive its extent, and most noticeable architectural and
other features. Like those of most Ento cities its principal streets
are provided with Waterways, on which we perceive numerous small
passenger or ware laden boats passing to and fro, and, as is usual,
on either side of the Waterways are wide, well paved streets for the
accommodation of pedestrians and motor vehicles. Yes, the scene is
animated and attractive and we regret that our time is too limited for
the present to more than glance over the quite modern city. It now is
high noon, and should we enter yonder beautiful Temple we would behold
a multitude of worshippers engaged in adoration of Andûman[a:], the
Supreme One. Yes, we have been in it and in all other fine structures
of Ento.
I have mentioned that Fondorûveh is quite a modern city, but deep down
under its foundation are the ruins of what in ancient times was a more
extensive, populous and affluent Fondorûveh. Centuries antecedent to
the inauguration of the Irrigating and Waterways System, the increasing
aridity of this region obliged the rural, and in time the urban
population to emigrate elsewhere, and finally the ancient Fondorûveh
was abandoned and gradually felt into ruinous decay, and in time the
annual floods and tempestuous winds buried its crumbling structures
under masses of débris or shifting sands. From the inception of the
great work the system has progressed without cessation and nearly half
a century ago its beneficent arms bore to this then desert region
abounding life expressions and prosperous conditions. This locality
offering special advantages enterprising persons conceived the idea
of using the site of the ancient buried city as a foundation for
the new Fondorûveh, which is in evidence in all the glory of modern
architecture and modern appliances. Could the ancient ruins exchange
sentiments, what a shaking of heads and raising of eyebrows would
ensue. Almost, one can fancy them sighing over the glories of the
past, the degeneracy of the present, and the uncertain future of the
presumptuous young upstart so serenely sitting on the ruins of its
betters.
Now we will move on. Almost suddenly the scenery is changing. The
country on our right and left grows a little more broken and away
southward are some low hills, the vestiges of former mountainous
elevations, curving in an eastward course until they are lost in the
distance. The entire region wears an appearance of newness, and its
many pretty towns, villages and country estates dotting its irrigated
and now fertile fields renders it more picturesque and pleasing than
the exceedingly level lands we recently have observed. A few more years
will bring to greater maturity much that is in an incomplete state, and
trees and shrubs and glowing blooms will make of this recently desert
country a veritable paradise, populated by a happy and prosperous
people.
Before reaching the eastern terminus of the System I will inform you
that the Waterway to our left, having reached a certain locality
its further progress was stayed by two peculiar barriers which have
occasioned a prodigious outlay of time, energy and means. For a time
engineers thought them nearly impregnable, but chemistry coming to
their aid with explosives of tremendous energy, the work of demolition
began, and so successfully has it proceeded that ere long through
both barriers the Kemin[a:] Lois[a:]vaon (central waterway) will find
passageway eastward. Now we will stay our flight and you will tell us
what you see.
Gentola--I see quite an extensive oval lake inclosed by a great wall
whose inner surface is so smooth as to present a peculiar appearance.
At its southern extremity is a mountainous mass, and from there the
height of the wall decreases until at its northern limit it is only
slightly above the level of the water, which is as unruffled as the
face of a mirror. On both the western and eastern sides of the lake
many men are engaged in drilling and blasting wide passageways through
the walls and the work appears to be nearing completion. Also I see
trains of tramway cars bearing away the débris, which does not resemble
ordinary stone. Nearby is quite a village of wooden structures and
tents, which I presume are occupied by laborers and others engaged in
the destruction of the wall. On the Irrigating Canals small boats are
coming or going as silently as though steersmen and passengers may be
deaf and dumb. These Entoans are such silent folk that they impress me
with a sense of sadness. An Air Transport is coming from toward the
east, and--see, see, its passengers are throwing flowers down to the
workmen and are calling, "Loh[a:]û, loh[a:]û, ēmanos." What a strange,
strange scene. I wish some of our Earth folk might witness it, for
should I tell of it I fear that no one would credit my story.
De L'Ester--Be not disturbed; fulfill the Mission for whose
accomplishment you returned into mortal existence, and leave to coming
years and enlightened minds a justification of what you and we know to
be a simple statement of facts. Yes, the material composing the wall of
the lake is somewhat peculiar. During some early age of the Planet one
of its satellites, unable to resist the attractive force of its parent,
with tremendous impetus and in a state of high incandescence, rushed
on to its surface, striking it at a low angle and plowing deeply into
its bosom. In its furious progress it distributed its molten matter in
the form of a deep oval basin, until its energy, and largely its volume
being spent, its career ended in the deposition of the mountainous mass
you have observed. Yes, the constituents of all Celestial bodies are
the same, and when suddenly reduced from a state of high incandescence
to a condition of solidity a sort of vitrefaction results, and that is
what occurred to Ento's satellite when in such hot haste it returned to
the bosom of its parent.
Your conjecture is correct, for soon the passageway through both walls
will be completed, and ere long vessels will be crossing to the further
side of the lake beyond which the system steadily is progressing.
Gentola--I should like to witness the opening of the Waterway. I
imagine that it will be a fine spectacle to see great vessels rushing
through the wide gateway into the lake.
De L'Ester--Without doubt it will be a stirring occasion, but it will
not occur previous to the culmination of our Mission. However we
promise you that, conditions being propitious, in a body we will come
to escort you hither to witness the entrance of the first great vessel
into the placid water of Etzoin[a:] Lois[a:] (placid water). We now
will proceed to view the vitreous mass at its southern extremity, which
will remain a perpetual evidence of a not unusual disaster. Planets
in their earlier formative processes throw off into space masses of
matter of greater or lesser magnitude. When the projective energy is
not forceful enough to hurl them sufficiently beyond the attractive
energy of the planet, quickly they are drawn back, and within its body,
otherwise they become small globes, and through specific conditions and
activities for an indefinite length of time they serve as satellites.
In this instance the indications are that the disaster occurred while
yet the crust of Ento was comparatively thin, and certainly previous to
the appearance of organized life forms, consequently no serious results
could have ensued. What the dimensions of the satellite were we cannot
certainly say, but from a careful estimate we conclude that its bulk
was about equal to that of Ementol[a:]. We do not consider it desirable
to at this time enter into details, but I may say that the basin of the
lake is little less than seventeen miles long and a little over eleven
miles wide.
Gentola--You say that the disaster which resulted in the formation of
the basin and this great vitreous mass is not an unusual one; if then
it might be possible for Entol[a:] and Ementol[a:] to some time suffer
a like disaster, would they in their flight through space and at the
moment of impact with the Planet be in a molten condition?
De L'Ester--Your question is very apropos, and Bruno shall have the
pleasure of replying to it.
Bruno--Thanks for your consideration. Gentol[a:], you may remember that
once on our way to Ento we, in compliance with your desire, alighted on
Entol[a:]. You then learned that ages ago the swiftly revolving moon
became a cold body and that neither it or its sister satellite had
ever sustained organic life forms. Your supposition as to a possible
contingency is, I regret to say, a fact so inevitable that it is not an
agreeable one to contemplate. As planets age they grow more magnetic
and a time will arrive when Ento's attractive force will draw to its
bosom one after the other its two satellites in a molten state. At what
period these catastrophes may occur no one can certainly determine, but
they will occur.
Activities of the universe may be likened to "the mills of the
Gods." Slowly but surely, with absolute accuracy, they each to all
others adjust themselves, thus no displacement of substance ever
creates a vacuum. Thus it occurs that the activities concerned in the
certain displacement and destruction of Entol[a:] and Ementol[a:]
are so precise, so minute, so incalculably tardy that the period of
culmination of the energy which will force them from their orbits is
not cognizable save by the Infinite Mind, but when the momentous period
shall arrive the inner satellite will plunge onto Ento's surface with
necessarily disastrous consequences, much depending upon the locality
of its impact. No, it will not destroy the Planet, but it will jar it
to its very centre. Ementol[a:], the outer satellite, being the smaller
one, possibly, nay probably, may first suffer extinction, but of course
that is a matter of conjecture. Have I made my reply intelligible?
Gentola--Quite so, but I rather regret having asked the question to
which you so satisfactorily have replied. Why? Well, I like to regard
God as all knowing, all powerful, and wholly beneficent. Possessing
such attributes, naturally one asks, why does He permit such disasters
to occur? Spirits freed from the environments of the physical plane,
with senses quickened to a degree that mortals cannot comprehend,
may adjust themselves to occurrences and conditions which to me are
deplorable and terrifying, for I confess that I shrink aghast from a
contemplation of some of the effects of what science terms natural law,
back of which it would seem there must be a Lawmaker who arbitrarily
adjusts all things, both good and evil. Tell me, friends, have you
become so reconciled to the apparently unequal relation between the
creator and the created, that unreservedly you can say, "Whatever is
is right?" For instance, should Entol[a:] and Ementol[a:], through
the activity of natural Law, be forced from their orbits and onto the
planet, with such attendant horrors as appalls one to think of, would
you then say, "Whatever is is right?" Cognizant as you are of the
cataclysms, earthquakes, destructive storms, wars and other frightful
events occurring on Ento, on Earth and on other planets, can you
candidly say, "Whatever is is right?"
De L'Ester--You are too deeply moved. I pray you to tranquillize
yourself, else we cannot hold you, and you may suffer injury.
Believe me, believe us, when, as now, we declare that in our Spirit
consciousness only a recognition of good is possible. Conscious mortal
mind is unable to perceive beyond the plane of mortal being; only the
subconscious or Spirit Self rises to the height of real perception.
Although now you are partly freed from physical influences, you yet
are held on the plane of mortal being, and cannot comprehend that
which Spiritually you but dimly perceive. Although Spiritually you
realize that the Infinite All Pervading One is wholly good, your
mortal consciousness is so dominant that, like all mortals, you yet
are seeking the _shadows_ of physical demonstrations and are slow
to comprehend that the activities of the Universe are harmonious
realities, working through intelligent means, toward intelligent ends,
and that ever the ends are Good, for Evil, per se, does not exist.
Along all lines progress, like the fabled phoenix, rises from the ashes
of consumed ignorant conceptions concerning Spirits, and out of seeming
evils positive good emerges. Only conscious mortal mind fears death
and disaster. Like an armed warrior it stands at the entrance of the
citadel of mortal existence, challenging all invaders. It is the Human
Soul arrayed against intangible, supposable foes, who ofttimes are
unrecognized friends.
To freed spirits, aware of their indestructibility, and of their
inherent tendency toward ever ascending planes of progression, the ever
changing conditions of substance are of but slight moment. Only through
their loving sympathy for their suffering or terrified brethren of the
physical plane do they experience special regret over the occurrence
of physical disasters. So assured are we that out of apparent evil
only good, or what is the same, higher conditions must result, that in
all sincerity, unitedly we declare that not only do we believe, but we
realize, that whatever is is right.
We perceive that you do not wholly agree with our conclusions, but
time will not end to-morrow, and you may change your mind. Also we
perceive that your natural love of life inclines you to cling to
mortal conditions, and that is well, for your experiences yet lack
completeness. But be assured that when the change termed death shall
come to you you will be undismayed, and in our Spirit World, with
serenity you will regard the dreamlike memories of your past terrors
and dread anticipations. With unquestioning trust you then will realize
that the Infinite Intelligent Energy is only good.
As from the apex of this mountainous mass we gaze across the expanse
of the lake in whose quiet depths are mirrored the azure sky and snowy
clouds, it is difficult to realize that in a bygone age suddenly the
surface of the Planet was rent asunder and in the rift a molten moon
molded itself into a convex basin, in whose rim and bottom, during
cooling and contraction great crevices opened through which annual
floods have poured and perennial springs have welled up from their
depths, thus affording an unfailing supply of clear, cold, delicious
water. No, the eastern wall of the lake will not be wholly pierced
until the System shall be prepared to receive the outflowing water, and
that will be later than the culmination of our Mission. To the Entoans
this lake ever has been a mystery. Were they learned in astronomy they
of course would understand its origin.
From its eastern wall onward around the planet to the western shore of
Indolois[a:], the lands of this Torrid zone generally are so arid as to
be altogether infertile. At intervals there are limited oases where,
through natural or other means, the soil is sufficiently moist to admit
of cultivation. The inhabitants, through air transportation, enjoy
communication and association with other peoples.
In our progress eastward we will cross several low mountain ranges, a
number of lakes and some inconsiderable streams flowing from the north
and losing themselves in the oases of which I have spoken, and soon
we will near a rather extensive lake on whose northeastern shore is a
city of about three hundred thousand inhabitants. Its name Roûv[a:]
(favored) probably was chosen because it is favored by an abundant
water supply. But I shall not further anticipate what presently you
will have the pleasure of observing.
This seems an opportune time to inform you that this morning, previous
to our coming for you, we visited D[a:]o, finding all things relating
to our Mission indicating a successful issue. Vallo[a:], pallid as a
white lily, is as a bird poised for flight, her senses so marvellously
quickened that she perceives and converses with the radiant ones
surrounding her. Dano, too, unfolds surprisingly, and eagerly,
anxiously awaits the fulfillment of your promise to be with him in his
hour of supremest trial. Through grief over the certainty that his
idolized child nears the end of her young life, Omanos Fûnh[a:] is
wellnigh prostrated. Only through the dawning hope of again finding his
adored daughter, the wife of his youth, and other dear ones, is his
despair a little lessened, and bravely he smiles into the troubled eyes
and wan, lovely face that soon will wear the reposeful smile of the
dead.
Now, friends, we must attend to material affairs. The region over which
we are passing is a reminder of an American desert, minus a fauna
and flora, of which there is no indication, but when the beneficent
system shall have watered its parched soil all that will be changed.
Gentol[a:], you perceive that away northward and southward there are
irrigated tracts, made possible through immense reservoirs which
the annual floods fill to repletion, and which with the addition of
occasional showers, suffices to moisten the thirsty lands. Also there
are deep wells which supply water for domestic and other purposes.
Certainly the general Government spares neither expense or labor for
the protection of those engaged in the conflict with such adverse
forces. Yes, doubtless, in time, the System will reclaim Ento's entire
waste lands, and again the equatorial regions will become the most
fertile and populous portions of the planet.
For the reason that the waste over which we have passed offers little
to either instruct or interest you or our dear lad, Bernard, we have
journeyed rather hurriedly. For the scientist, deep under its surface
there are treasures untold. Histories of races so ancient that neither
record or legend hints of who or what has been buried there. No trump
of Angel ever will awaken to animation the ashes of peoples who ages
ago lived and loved upon the highlands and amid the verdant vales of
the long since levelled lands, but as no atom of the universe can go
astray or cease to be, somewhere those ancient ones yet are living,
loving and filling their allotted places among the countless myriads of
the children of the Infinite Father, Mother God.
Before us, gleaming in the sunlight, is Hûnd[a:]ffon (name of
Andûman[a:]'s cup bearer) and lining its northwestern shore and gracing
its slightly rising background is Roûv[a:] Tylû, one of Ento's ancient
cities. We will alight on yonder lofty Temple dome, near the centre of
the city.
George--Although previously I have passed this way, I have not
looked through this antiquated city, so with your approval, friends,
Genessano, Bernard and I will make a hurried exploration of its
highways and byways.
De L'Ester--Your pleasure is ours, and you, Zenest[a:], who are so
well versed in the histories of Ento's ancient and modern cities, will
kindly relate whatever you may know of Roûv[a:].
Zenesta Hao--With somewhat of pleasure and somewhat of sadness I shall
comply with your request. It may surprise you to learn that this city
was the home of my parents and also my home during a portion of my
last Re-embodiment. You who understand the Law know that in referring
to my parents I mean those through whom I last was reborn into mortal
existence, and who were a newly wedded pair, wealthy, cultivated and
possessed of virtues of an exalted nature. See you yonder stately
dwelling nearby whose portals a fountain throws into the air its
silvery spray? In that dwelling the Angels of the Visitation found for
me suitable environments for my rebirth, and when I grew self-conscious
I found myself cradled on the bosom and gazing into the eyes of the
loveliest and gentlest of women. As an infant thinks, so thought I of
a wonderful past existence, but I looked into my mother's lovelit eyes
and I forgot, I forgot. Soon for me was naught but a blessed present,
the present of my mother's caresses, the present when from her fair
breasts I drew into my life a part of her life, and the days passed,
and as other children unfold, so did I until three birth anniversaries
had marked the passing years of my mortal existence, then an awful
shadow began to creep over our threshold. My lovely, gentle mother,
who, from the time of my birth, had not been strong, rapidly grew
weaker, and my father, in an agony of grief and terror scarcely left
her side. As memory recalls that sorrowful time, I see the look of fear
and despair in my mother's eyes, and I hear her pathetic appeals to
the physicians, to my father, to save her life, to hold her fast, lest
death might tear her from her husband, from her child, but the shadow
crept nearer, ever nearer, and child as I was, her prayers for succor,
and my father's moans and sobbing cries to Andûman[a:], to Phr[a:], to
the Gods to save the dear life so surely ebbing away, filled me with
terror indescribable.
At the last my father sought to keep me away from the closing scene
of my mother's life, but with the depth and tenacity of a mother's
love she held me close within one arm and with the other she drew my
father's face to hers, and her breathing grew fainter, fainter, and
after a little ceased and there was Silence, and the dear arms relaxed
their caress, the throbbing heart-beats were stilled, and in affright
I raised my head from my mother's breast to look into her pallid face
on which the calm of death was resting. In terror I reached out my
arms, crying, "Father! father!" No answer came to my cries, but a
moment later alarmed attendants hurried into the apartment and lifted
me from my dead mother's breast. As they bore me away some one raised
my father's head, and on his face, too, was the calm of death, and from
his lips a crimson stream fell upon my mother's white robe.
Pardon me, friends, I had not meant to sadden you, or to wet my own
eyes with infrequent tears over the memories of a bygone time.
After the untimely death of my parents I was cared for by my father's
brother until, as a pupil, I was placed in the Galarēs[a:] of
Camariss[a:], which, I may say, thereafter was my home until I joined
my dear ones in our Spirit Realms. Your sympathetic expressions assure
me that I have not too greatly presumed in offering this recital of
my earliest days, recalled through viewing remembered scenes of my
childhood and of later years.
Now I will hasten to acquaint you with a condensed history of this
really ancient city. Fourteen Ento centuries ago Roûv[a:] was a
rich and very populous city, situated on ground so elevated as to
afford an extended view of the expanse of Hûndaffon and somewhat of
the lands beyond its further shore. A reliable historian of that
period says: "From some very ancient writings in my possession I have
learned that in remote times the region north of Roûv[a:] was broken
by mountainous elevations and vales through which tumultuous streams
found their way into Lois[a:] Hûndaffon, which in the spring season
overflowed its banks to the great detriment of contiguous low lying
lands." The historian to whom I have alluded was Lotis Oovan Issillo,
whose Writings are considered standards of excellence. Of the ancient
Writings of which he makes mention no trace remains, but through
ancient Ento Spirits we know that their statements were correct. During
the passing centuries unfavoring conditions have greatly changed
Roûv[a:], which retains but slight traces of its ancient greatness.
Still it is an attractive and quite prosperous city.
Hûndaffon is about thirty English miles long and quite twenty miles
wide. Through continuous dredging its depth of about two hundred feet
is maintained, and largely it furnishes irrigation for certain low
south lands, and affords carriage for various craft plying between
Roûv[a:] and villages along its shores. Toward the northwest we
perceive a very considerable river pouring its sparkling waters into
the lake, the fine bridge spanning it affording communication between
the two divisions of the city. This river, which now is the only stream
of importance flowing into Hûndaffon, is known as Somû-ikaton (Blessing
River). It rises in the far north, and truly it is appropriately named,
for its life giving water supplies ample irrigation for the lands
lying along its length, from which agricultural and other communities
derive sustenance. Along its shores are towns and villages in which
are excellent schools, libraries, temples and other features for the
advancement and enjoyment of highly cultivated communities. From
Lois[a:] Hûndaffon northward the river has been deepened and widened,
culminating at its head in an immense reservoir, which we have learned
is to be increased to twice its present dimensions. The river, too, is
to be further deepened and widened, that it may afford carriage for
vessels of large tonnage. During the efficient Administration of Omanos
Fûnh[a:] many extensive reservoirs have been constructed and flowing
streams deepened and widened, the growing needs of the people demanding
the exercise of all possible means favoring their natural, therefore
just, requirements. You are aware that Ento's entire Public Works
are owned and maintained by the General Government, thus abuses of
privileges, consequently of peoples, are avoided, and so energetically
is the construction of the Waterways and Irrigating System being
executed that ere long Ento will experience a degree of prosperity
greater than at any time during the history of the Planet. Then, too,
knowledge of the coming new religion will usher in universal happiness
where now is universal sadness.
You express surprise at the stupendous excavations that have been
and now are being made on Ento. Generally one ceases to wonder at an
accomplished fact, so I perhaps cannot quite appreciate your state
of mind, my last rebirth having occurred long after such excavations
had become a common feature of Ento. Many centuries previous to the
inception of the System, through the agencies of scientific appliances,
excavations of Ento's light, porous soil were easily accomplished. To
render them watertight was the greatest embarrassment, but through the
formation of a conglomerate cement for linings of reservoirs, canals
and the like science arranged that difficulty. The great Waterways
also are lined with a combination of cement and stone, the exceeding
porosity of the soil requiring it.
I now will conclude my reminiscences associated with Roûv[a:]. During
my youth and later years at intervals I returned to my old home to
attend to such interests as I had inherited from my parents, but at
length age and infirmity disinclining me for further journeyings, in a
manner agreeable to my sense of justice I disposed of my possessions
and as I then thought bade a last farewell to Roûv[a:]. Since then it
appears to have but slightly changed, yet I doubt not ere long it shall
find itself within the hospitable embrace of the System, it will so
rejuvenate itself as to again become one of the foremost cities of Ento.
De L'Ester--For having afforded us an interesting half hour we are
your debtors. Certainly it is a surprise to learn that in this city
your last rebirth occurred, and that in yonder stately Kinos draped
residence your earliest Ento experiences came to you. Since we all at
one time or another have tasted of the sweets of joy and the bitterness
of sorrow, we know how to sympathize with the joys and sorrows of
others, and what sorrow is so pathetic as that of a young child Soul,
whose tender feet are essaying their first steps upon the rugged
pathway of mortal existence. No, Gentol[a:], repeated embodiments
do not inure the mortal expression of the Ego to the sorrows and
vicissitudes of the physical plane, but through such experiences the
Ego evolves into loftier, grander states of Being. Does the Ego and
its mortal expression mutually experience joy and sorrow? Aye, truly,
but the ego _knows_, while the objective expression or Soul only
sees through a glass darkly. Only the fully freed Ego is capable of
comprehending this occult statement, so patiently you will await its
solution.
Here are our explorers. Have you found aught of interest?
George--We only have glanced here and there, but can assure you that
we might linger here for a day and then leave this hoary Roûv[a:] with
regret. It is so quaint, so enchanting, that I propose that some time
when you and my sister may feel so inclined we will again bring you to
Roûv[a:], that together we all may view its many objects of interest.
You will be delighted to come? Then that matter is settled, and
Bernard will relate an incident of our half hour ramble that may amuse
you.
Bernard--Mother, dear, you should have seen how George startled a young
Priest who stood in the doorway of a Temple talking to an elderly,
dignified personage. As we approached them the priest said: "Yes,
yes, we are hearing of strange proceedings in many places, but more
particularly in the Palace of our Supreme Ruler, where the Princess
Vallo[a:] is thought to be dying. May the pitiful gods prolong her
days. Think of it, sir, think of it, it is openly said that Prince
Dano, as also the Princess Vallo[a:], declare by the Gods that they
both see and converse with those who long have been in the Silence,
and whose ashes attest to their nothingness. Your pardon, sir, but
truly it is so very absurd that I cannot forbear smiling when I think
of what Prince Dano has given utterance to. Why, he goes so far as to
assert that not only has he talked with the dead, but with a woman
who says she belongs to a World somewhere in space. I cannot at this
moment recall the name of this World, and have not learned where it is
supposed to be located, but he declares that she not only spoke to him,
but touched him, yes, sir, really touched him. Of course this is the
merest hallucination, for persons of healthful minds never are subject
to such vagaries. It is true that in past times on momentous occasions
the Gods have, and do now, speak to our High Priests, and with the Most
High Priest of the Inner Temple Zim, but with the people, never. Fancy
yourself, sir, indulging in such wild imaginings as that the dead,
or a being from an unimaginable World have spoken to you, or what is
quite as impossible, touched----" Just then George touched him on the
extended right hand, and with a start instantly he stopped talking, and
for a moment looked at his hand, then glanced about him with such a
perplexed expression that the man with whom he was speaking regarded
him with some surprise, and an inquiry as to what had disquieted him.
Recovering himself, he attempted to explain that he had experienced a
peculiar sensation, but he got no further, for George gave him such a
palpable touch on his left hand, then on his face, that he cried out
in terror: "Save me, Andûman[a:], save me, save me," and fled through
the temple and out at a rear door, leaving the dignified personage in a
state of bewilderment. Mother, it was such a droll performance that I
shall laugh whenever I think of it. Oh, no, I did not understand what
the Priest said; George translated it for me.
De L'Ester--George, if your exploit is not altogether commendable,
at least it is amusing, and certainly you have given the priest who
evidently is a Sensitive, a novel experience, which may serve as a
stepping stone toward his later enlightenment. I fancy that he will not
relate his strange experience to his Superiors, who already are greatly
agitated over the weird reports with which the air is vibrant, and
which soon will be so augmented as to overwhelm both priests and people.
Roûv[a:], we now must say to you Info Oovistû. The hours are swiftly
passing and at any moment we may be called upon to turn our faces
toward D[a:]o. No, we do not consider Vallo[a:]'s departure imminent,
but in her devitalized state it soon may occur, and we must hold
ourselves in readiness for our part in the closing scene of the
momentous occasion.
George, we will rise to a greater height, so that Gentol[a:]'s vision
may command extensive views of the countries over which we shall pass.
It is not likely that we shall alight more than twice between Roûv[a:]
and the western shore of Indolois[a:].
Ah, Gentol[a:], you have grown weary. In our eagerness to afford
you views of many things we forget that you are not like ourselves,
tireless. George will escort Bernard to his bright home, so make your
adieus to him and our friends, and then I shall bear you swiftly to
your home, where ere now you should have arrived.
In no more than five minutes we have crossed the space between Ento
and Earth. Yes, a speedy passage, but when again you shall be a freed
Spirit, you will journey with the quickness of thought.
I pray you to retire early and rest; rest until to-morrow, when we will
come for you.
Adieu.