14279231 Within the Temple of Isis

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See other formats Full text of "Within the temple of Isis"

WITHIN

BELLE M. WAGNER.

THE LIBRARY

OF

THE UNIVERSITYOF CALIFORNIA

LOS ANGELES

GIFT

The Simplex Publishing Co.

Importers and Publishers of

OCCULT WORKS

Box 595, Seattle, Wash.

The Simplex Publishing Co.

Importers and Publishers of

OCCULT WORKS


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Box 595, Seattle, wash.

WITHINTHE TEMPLE OF ISIS.

BY

BELLE M. WAGNER,

Denver, Colorado:

ASTRO-PHILOSOPHICAL PUBLISHING CO.,1899.

COPYRIGHT, 1899,BY HENRY WAGNER, M. D.

DEDICATION.

D,

, M. .,

TO MY HUSBAND,

IN ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF HIS TRUE WORTH A3 A WARRIOR

IN THE CAUSE OF TRUTH, AND HIS DEVOTION TO THE

BROTHEI1HOOD AND SISTERHOOD OF MAN, AND THE

FATHERHOOD AND MOTHERHOOD OF GOD, I

DEDICATE THIS BOOK.

BY THE AUTHORESS.

PUBLISHER'S PREFACE.


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We are safe in saying that ''WithinThe Temple of Isis" is unique and standsalone. There is no other book in printlike it, and if Solomon of old had notsaid, "There is nothing new under the

sun," we would be inclined to contradicthim.

"Within the Temple of Isis" God'sword was law as interpreted by his Hiero-phants; their oneness with the fountainof Being made them conscious of Nature'ssecret operations, and enabled them, asit does the wise ones of to-day, to enterthe Temple of Isis and observe the hiddenmysteries concealed behind the veil.

6 PUBLISHER S PREFACE.

Purity of motive and sincerity of pur-pose brought its own reward to them ofold as it does to those of to-day who pu-rify themselves before seeking for theknowledge and wisdom hidden within the"Holy of Holies" "The Temple of Isis."

Isis means Mother of all, while Osirismeans Father of all.

The Temple of Two Truths as matterand spirit must be realized within.

The Polar Opposites are those of sexdually expressed as two poles of one lawor principle as taught by Hermetic Phi-losophy before the law of polarization ofspirit into matter, and matter back intospirit, can be understood.

The Alchemist and the Astrologer,alike, possess this wisdom, and it was thisknowledge that made the Priests Kings of

PUBLISHER S PREFACE. 7

Egypt, so justly famous as Magicians orWise Men.

They still exist in spirit realms and cantransmit to this plane of earth their wis-dom, that would make earth a veritable


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paradise if only the race could be madeto realize its magical powers.

Scientific inventions of great momentto the race are thus projected to the earth,and spiritual Adepts in occult laws willagain revive the " Wisdom Religion "upon earth in all its beauty and grandeur

as the western race becomes fitted intel-lectually and spiritually to receive it.

Nature ever repeats herself in cyclesof time on the spiritual and mental, aswell as the physical planes of life.

. End, there is none. 71me and eternityare the ever-present Now, so far as thespirit is concerned. Therefore, the readers

PUBLISHER S PREFACE.

of this strange occult book will some dayrealize its truths as realities of naturallaw on the spiritual planes of life. It isa clear, practical statement of Soul Mar-riage and of Soul Transfer from oneearthly temple to that of another.

Nature's laws are ever the same;therefore, the same experiences hereinnarrated are applicable to Neophytesseeking soul initiation to-day as they were

in the days of The Temple of Isis, and ifthe veil of Isis could be raised for onesingle moment the world would be startledby the mysterious revelations disclosed.

To the Seers and the Occult Initiatesalike, this book will appeal with magicalforce. Its truths are those of the soul andspirit, and can await the reader's souldevelopment for verification.

Truth needs no apology; therefore,

PUBLISHER S PREFACE. Q

none will be offered as an excuse for thispublication. It is our desire that ourreaders may some day know for them-selves that Truth is indeed stranger thanFiction.


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INTRODUCTION.

In presenting this little volume to ourreaders we ask them to accept it, not asfiction, but as divine truth as to the laws

herein revealed.

Not a statement is made that is notpossible to the divine will of man. Al-though it can not be proven to your out-ward knowledge, do not reject and declareit is not true.

History will teach you there actuallyexisted a "Temple of Isis," and the trans-lations thereof, although many of themare very incorrect, of the wonderful magictherein performed, lead one to think there

was some Wisdom issued from that Tern-

12 INTRODUCTION.

pie that is yet beyond the human family,as a whole, to understand.

"The Temple of Isis" exists no more inexternal form, and the Hierophants ofthat Temple have passed from this to thespiritual planes above. But, need we

think by that, the blind forces of Naturecan no more be controlled? The forcesare just the same to-day, but man's mindfails to grasp the truth that history repeatsitself.

Mighty Hierophants are upon the earthto-day,in embryo, and when the time comesthat points favorably for active spiritualwork on the Western Continent, they willbe called forth and Egypt will not beashamed of her true children nor theirworks.

The Wisdom Religion of Egypt stillexists and we can contact that Wisdom

INTRODUCTION. 13

by the development of our souls. Evendo the Wise Men of the East, that was,exert their spiritual influence upon us to-


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day if we but knew it.

The trouble lies with us not with them.They will never conceal it from the honestsoul truly seeking for Light, Life andLove.

Follow us carefully to the end, without

prejudice, and when you have finished, ifyou still think it fiction, strive to prove itsfalsity and stop not until you have reachedthat stage of soul unfoldment that willenable you to occupy that plane wherebyyou can stand beside the great Hiero-phants of "The Temple of Isis."

THE AUTHORESS.

WITHIN

THE TEMPLE OF ISIS.

CHAPTER I.

THE REVELATION OF THE ASTROLOGER.

Although the hour was very late, nearmidnight, the Priestess had just retired toher apartments for repose.

The Rites of the day had been ex-

tremely long and fatiguing, as they alwayswere for a Priestess of Isis attendant uponthe burial service of one in high rank;and a great nobleman of the land, as wellas a near relative of the Priestess herself,had been buried that day.

Thus personal sorrow had mingled

1 6 Within the Temple of his.

with and added weight to the impressiveand solemn grandeur of the occasion, yet,strangely enough her mind was neitherwith the events of the day nor the dead,but her thoughts were resting now where

they had wandered many times through-/

out the day, namely, to her little hand-maid and special attendant, as well as


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Vestal in the Temple, Sarthia.

Sarthia, who at the very beginning ofthe Chants and Litany, had failed in herpart and had, with such a pitiable moanand beseeching glance at her, been hastilywithdrawn from the assembly and assistedto the private courts.

Poor child, she thought, the strainupon her emotions, the solemn occasion,was too great for her in view of thecrisis, which all unknown to her, mustbe now impending. However, upon learn-

The Revelation of the Astrologer. 17

ing from an attendant that the younggirl was resting quietly and apparently

not ill, she had not herself personallyvisited her, but concluded to wait untilmorning.

Once, twice, thrice, just as the Priestesshad, as it were, passed the border-land ofsleep the pale face, with its pleading eyesand plaintive cry, had started her back tovivid consciousness.

"Ah! this will never do," she said,springing to her feet. "Something is in-deed wrong," and taking up' her mantle

she glided swiftly through the corridors,and a few moments later was bendingover the silent and motionless form ofSarthia.

Noiseless as had been the approach ofthe Priestess some interior vibration hadinformed Sarthia of her coming and, with


a quivering and swift movement, shesprang from her couch and threw herselfimpulsively into the arms of the Priestess.

"Ah! sweet Mother, well beloved ofour blessed and divine Isis, hear me andhelp me," said the girl, in a whisper, tenseand low, so low as only to reach thelistening ear of the Priestess.

" Speak child," answered the Priestess,


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caressingly clasping Sarthia to her bosomwith one strong arm, and with the othermaking soft, mesmeric passes over hertrembling body.

"Ah! thank you, sweet Mother; this isso good and kind of you to come to meto-night. I have suffered so all day from

your thought; you have been disap-pointed in your Sarthia and with reason,too. A Vestal, who all but faints at thesight of death, is not made of the stuff re-


quired in the Temple Service. But, be-lieve me, dear Priestess, the trouble is fardeeper than appears upon the surface.The Ritual this morning but furnished

the occasion or, rather, hastened somecrisis that was already near at hand. Forsome time now I am haunted by mostpotent premonitions of a violent death.Night after night, dark apparitions hangaround my bed, and only last night Iawoke to find the Bird of Nu, the Owl,from out the inner Sanctuary of theTemple, perched upon my pillow andshaking his head and croaking at memost mournfully."

" What! " exclaimed the Priestess.

"The Bird of Nu. Ah! this is indeedvery serious. The matter must be inves-tigated at once. But, my child, if allthese portents prove true, do you fear

2O Within the Temple of I sis.

death? Have all our teachings been invain? Have you made so little progressin knowledge and the philosophy of ex-istence as to be overcome by dark

shadows and grow faint in the presenceof the sentiment and show of an externalceremony ? The pageantry, which appealsso overwhelmingly to the emotions ofthe outside world, is the necessary meansof teaching the people these awful andstupendous mysteries of life and death.But the Initiate" should be sustained byactual experiences within these hiddenrealms and possess a knowledge oftheir inner nature which places him on a


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plane far above the reach of Fear; be-sides being endowed with that burninglove for wisdom which calmly discernsgood jn evil, and immortal life in theshadow, called death. Do not think I am


chiding you, my child. I am only seek-ing to recall my real Sarthia, who is in-capable of Fear, back to this physical ex-pression called body.

"There, already the bright soul shinesagain with its usual clear light. Hold itfirmly and do not let it flicker so again, andnow I must leave you to seek an inter-view with the chief of the Astrologers.The record and Horoscope of your birth

must be carefully looked up, and themeaning of these portents determined.Good-night, my child."

With a kiss, fond and maternal, thePriestess withdrew. She proceeded leis-urely and thoughtfully toward a distantpart of the Temple, having first dis-patched a messenger before her to an-nounce her coming, seeking an audience,well knowing that at this now early hour

22 Within the Temple of his.

of morning the Astrologer Priests wouldall be in the midst of their busiest studies,calculations and most profound observa-tions.

But Sarthia, when left alone, althoughmarvelously calmed and comforted by thetender presence and lofty words of heridolized Priestess could not compose her-self to sleep. Instead, she soon floated

into a state of restful contemplation,drifting from one topic to another, un-til suddenly she found herself confrontedby a most intensely vivid and startlingvision. "Can it be?" Yes, true enough,there sat the venerable Astrologer hold-ing in his hand before him, her chart ofbirth. Beside him, engaged in complet-ing the necessary calculations, sat thescribe and youthful Astrologer Priest,Hermo. There was a strange pallor over


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The Revelation of the Astrologer, 23

his face and a compression of the lipswhich betrayed unusual emotion. ThePriestess was partially facing them, com-

posed, yet with a serious thoughtfulnessof mein.

Atlast, Hermo,lookingup, said, "Thedirections for the present year of life aremade out, and the fatal arc carefully com-puted, Venerated Master," and handedhis work to the Astrologer who took it,studied a moment briefly, and turned tothe Priestess.

"What is the result, Venerated Fath-er?" she asked gently.

The Astrologer slowly shook his headand replied impressively, "According toall the laws of our Science, and you knowhow true they are, the physical organismof Sarthia can not survive this presentcycle of yonder fair Goddess of the night."

24 Within the Temple of I sis.

And, with a majestic move, he pushed

aside a curtain, revealing the Moon nowlow in the west.

"So short a time," said the Priestess."To-morrow night will be the full, andmust we indeed lose our Sarthia beforeanother new Moon ? What is the natureof these evil influences?" .

"The planets, in their configurations,indicate sudden and violent dissolution,"was the reply.

" Ah, now," said Sarthia to herselfresolutely, at this point turning away fromthe vision, "now I understand it all," andwith a feeling of amaze at her newly-attained clairvoyance she fell into a deepand refreshing sleep.

CHAPTER II.


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IN THE PRESENCE OF THE HIEROPHANT.

With the first waking moments asharp pang recalled to Sarthia the visionand its revealments of the previous night.But her mind had fully recovered its phil-osophic tone and she proceeded abouther customary routine of duties, calm

and firm, and, as is often the case, in viewof some inevitable and stupendous catas-trophy close at hand, life only seemedlarger, more intensely real. So, whenlater in the day she received summons tomeet the great Hierophant and HighPriest, what, at any other time, wouldhave seemed a most momentous event,


appeared now only in the light of theexpected and necessary.

As she was ushered into the presenceof the Holy Father the whole apartmentseemed pervaded by an atmosphere ofgenial warmth and electrical-giving lifewhich somehow emanated from the innernature of the Priest himself, radiatingalso spiritual and mental, as well as phys-ical force.

For some moments the Hierophant

regarded the young Vestal in silence, butSarthia was conscious that he was readingher inmost thought and motive like anopen book, even down to her vision ofthe Astrologer and his fatal announce-ment regarding her life.

"My child," he said at length, "areyou ready for the great change now al-ready at hand?"

In the Presence of the Hicrophant. 27

" No, Father, not ready but resignedto what seems to be the inevitable decreesof the planets that rule my physical des-tiny."

"Thou hast well said thou art notready. Your life has yet but only begunfor you. Its experiences, its many lessonsand duties, are all unlearnt and you would


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pass to the spirit world immatured.Your young soul, like fruit plucked fromthe tree too soon, would ripen slowly,losing many of its flavors and neverattaining certain of its best and highestqualities, for as you well know, progressin the next stage of existence dependsupon the attainments in this.

"Thou art not ready, yet say youare willing to bow to the inevitable. Thisis wise, still have you not heard it saidmany times that man is the arbiter of his

28 IVithin the Temple of his.

own destiny and that the soul was the in-heritor of God-like powers by which itcould rise to the plane whereby it ruled,

instead of obeying the blind or planetaryforces of Nature?"

" True, O Venerated Father, I haveindeed heard all this, but I am very igno-rant. Are there such possibilities for mysoul?" and somehow imperceptibly hopebegan to dawn within her heart andquicken the life forces.

" Ruling the blind forces of Nature isvery like ruling the wild beast, althoughthe beast is much stronger than man and

capable of tearing him to pieces, yet man,by forethought, can evade or trap andchain or otherwise overcome him. Somy child, there are ways wherein man,assisted by his own knowledge, and by theinstruction of departed spirits; aye, by

In the Presence of the Hierophant. 29

the immortal Gods themselves, can evadeeven the malefic planets in their devastat-

ing course.

" To my clairvoyant vision, as I now atthis moment look at you, every minuteatom of your physical organism is in thesubtle process of depolarization fromunity toward chaos and disintegration.You are not yourself conscious of thiscondition only as it has been revealed toyou, for your soul is so alive that it hasbecome almost unconscious of its physical


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expression and for this very reason theshock of dissolution would be all thegreater when it did come; for example,witness your unexpected collapse yester-day morning. Ah! sudden death is amost deplorable calamity, and your piti-able state of mind was but a foretaste ofwhat would be the state of your soul for


many long years, if you had died then,and will yet be, to a less extent now, unlessthis swift-coming blow can be evaded.

" However, in case the worst comes toworst, you have about ten days more ofthis external life and under our specialcare and preparation you can live years

of experience in hours of physical time,and your soul thus equipped may cour-ageously enter upon its journey to thespirit world. Rest assured, my child,everything possible shall be done for you."

"Ah, thank you; thank you, kind andgood Father," exclaimed Sarthia, castingherself at the feet of the Hierophant and,with tears streaming from her eyes, kiss-ing the hem of his robe.

" But, truly life is sweet, especially to

the young, is it not, my child?" said thePriest, gently raising Sarthia to his side

In the Presence of the Hieorpkant. 31

and holding her trembling form in a firmclasp. "Happily, there is an alternativewhich we have to offer for your mostcareful consideration and decision.

"Listen now, and give me your closest

attention. Know you the young PrincessNu-nah?" Sarthia bowed assent.

"For now these many weeks she liesin a semi-conscious condition, the soulhovering about its earthly temple uncer-tain whether to go or stay. In somerespects her condition corresponds withyour own, only that with you, as dissolu-tion approaches, your soul grows brighterand more active, while hers becomes more


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and more latent; this result being largelythe difference of environment a contrastof the soul unfoldment possible in Templelife and that amid the distractions of theoutside world.

32 Within the Temple oj Isis.

" To-night, the night of the full Moon,the Princess Nu-nah will be brought tothe Temple and the Rites performed ini-tiatory to the soul's great change. You,also, my child, must bear her company.The same journey lies before you bothand you can go hand in hand through thedark valley of the shadow of death.

"And now, right here is a point whereall will depend upon your decision. It is

possible for us, by aid of the arts of Magicknown to us, to bring your two souls insuch magnetic rapport that at a certainpoint the vibrations of the two will, for asingle instant of time, be in unison. Atthat momentous instant the polarity ofthe two souls can be interchanged so thatthe subsequent vibrations of your soul willdraw you toward Nu-nah's body, while

In the Presence of the Hierophant. 33

Nu-nah's soul will be drawn, toward yourorganism, and thus will be accomplishedthe first great step in the drama.

"This great change will hasten thephysical crisis in each organism. Butyour soul, while connected with Nu-nah'sbody, can easily overcome the maleficplanetary influences which would destroyit if she were there; while her soul in yourbod}* renders nil, by its very non-resist-ance, the influences which would be abso-

lutely fatal were you still there when theevil descends. And thus do you evadethe blind forces of Nature. Two livesare spared for the duties and experiencesof this world. This will be the secondpart of the drama, and now comes thethird and last point to consider, theResult.

" In just the proportion as this is a


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34 Within the Temple of Is is.

most stupendous change in your soul life,so indeed, perhaps, even appalling to yourpresent comprehension, will be the effect.

"After your soul has once entered itsnew temple it will be obliged to remainthere polarized by the new forces set inoperation while passing the crisis. Then,Sarthia, our bright and well-belovedVestal, will henceforth be known asPrincess Nu-nah, and will be obliged fora time to live the life and perform theduties of the Princess.

"On the other hand, the PrincessXu-nah will put on the external body ofour Vestal Sarthia and enter upon the

life of the Temple Service, but with thisdifference; that while this change is con-sciously made by you, Nu-nah will prob-ably never know it until she passes finallyto the spirit world. Her past life has

In the Presence of* the Hierophant 35

already faded from memory while con-sciousness of the new life will dawn grad-ually as upon an infant, and therefore,

since she can not be consulted in the mat-ter, the decision rests solely with you.

"To-night, at midnight, your answerwill be required. Until then, fare theewell, and God be with you."

CHAPTER III.

THE MIDNIGHT OF THE FULL MOON.

It yet lacked several hours of the fate-ful midnight, as Sarthia, her body per-fumed and annointed, according to theprescribed rites, was borne by faithfulattendants from the bath into the courtsof the Sanctuary and placed upon a couchbeside another, upon which already restedthe unconscious form of the lovely Prin-cess Nu-nah.

But Sarthia, although to an external


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observer as unconscious as the fairNu-nah, was never more intensely awake,every atom of her being and soul alert toall transpiring about her and conveyed toher through her marvelous new gifts ofclairvoyance and clairaudience.

The Midnight of the Full Moon. 37

Never, with the external eye, had sheseen more vividly the vista upon vista ofcolumns and corridors winding in andabout the Sanctuary, now illuminated bythe full-orbed Queen of the Night, whichshe could see shining through a certainarchway, and her heart thrilled as shecounted the number of archways fair Lunamust pass until, at midnight, she wouldshine down through the one just above her.

Already had begun the weird chants,interspersed with solos of exquisite har-monies of stringed and wind instrumentsresponses and echoes.

Incense burned and perfumes aroseand blended in an indescribable unionwith melody and motion, while as thefragrant vapors from the burning censerswafted and wreathed about the colonnades

38 Within the Temple of f sis.

and porticoes, Spirit forms added theirpresence to the sublime scene, bringingwith them flowers, aromas and harmoniesfrom the divine abodes of the very Godsthemselves.

Oblivious of the passage of time, whileintently absorbed in every minutest detailof the wonders passing about her, Sarthiawas almost becoming drowsy, when sud-

denly, the Moon looked in upon her, fastnearing the final archway, and yet shewas undecided. She turned and gazedupon her companion, mentally asking,"Can I become Nu-nah?"

Nu-nah was very beautiful and aPrirjcess. But Sarthia was also beautifuland the blood in her veins was royal,though of a different branch from thepresent ruling House.


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Nu-nah was cold and haughty, accus-tomed to rule and be obeyed.


Sarthia was humble externally, a Vestalof the Temple, but in her mind and soulas imperious as a Queen of the realm ofHeaven. Passionately devoted to thepursuit of Wisdom and the possibilities ofobtaining knowledge, even Magic wasopen to her, in the Temple Service.Could she leave her Temple home, heropportunities for growth, her idolizedPriestess, to go into the environments ofNu-nah?

The thought seemed to her worse than

death itself. " Every one has to die," shemused, "and I may as well die one timeas another."

Then another thought came into hermind Hermo. He had begun to teachher the mysteries of his science of Astrol-ogy. Hermo, for whom she had a pure

4O Within the Temple of I sis.

sisterly regard and who was so proud ofher swift proficiency in his favorite study.And then she recalled the vision of theprevious night when Hermo had shownto her clairvoyant eye his agitation at herimpending doom.

"But if I become Nu-nah and Nu-nahbecomes Sarthia, Hermo will never knowthe difference and thus be spared the painof loving his young sister. And further-more, Nu-nah has a lover to whom she isbetrothed and would have married, ere

this, but for her lingering malady, thesuperb young Prince Rathunor, whom Ihave never seen."

Ah! here was indeed a most dire com-plication. Love was a most mysteriousand unknown emotion to her. She mighthate Prince Rathunor and "then wewould both wish I had died," and she half


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laughed to herself at the domestic comedythus presented to her mind.

At this period, either as a reaction fromthe light thrown, or lighter thought upon

her overwrought nature, or possibly fromsome subtle, potent influence emanatingfrom the censer burning near her, Sarthialapsed into sudden and most profoundunconsciousness.

A few moments later it seemed toSarthia as if ages had intervened shebegan a fierce struggle to awake. " Why,how is this?" she thought. She seemedenveloped in a dead wall of some kind.The brain, the heart, the infinite ramifica-tion of nerves in no way responded to her

will and her utmost effort. Almost wornout with the unequal battle it began todawn upon her that she was really endeav-oring to animate the other body. "Am I


becoming Nu-nah?" Yes, in the excite-ment of the moment she raised herselfupon her couch and, resting upon herelbow, gazed upon the rigid form of what

a moment before had been herself.

But her movement had startled a formbeside the couch, some one who had ap-proached, unobserved by Sarthia, duringthe interval of unconsciousness.

A young man who seemed to her themost God-like being she had ever beheldand perceiving her glance, with a low ex-clamation of joy, sprang toward her,clasped her hand in his, and turning herface upward, gazed with most passionate

tenderness into her eyes.

"My Nu-nah, you will live," he mur-mered. " Do you know your Rathunor?"

Thrilled to suffocation by the love inhis eyes, every atom of her soul vibrating

The Midnight of the Fidl Moon. 43


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to a new-born and overwhelming emotion,she felt herself slowly but surely losingcontrol of her new body. With, however,one supreme effort she pressed the handholding hers and returning the look inhis eyes she gave one deep, quiveringsigh and was gone. .42

When again she regained conscious-ness she was within her own body. Ra-thunor had vanished and the first slantingrays of the Moon were descending thelast aperture.

It was midnight, and she found herselfin communication with the Hierophant,who, from a different portion of the Sanc-tuary, was seriously regarding her andagain reading her inmost thoughts.

A few moments before she had all butdecided that she could not be Nu-nah, thatdeath now, here in this Holy Sanctuary


were better far than hundreds of years asa Princess of the realm of materiality.But, a new factor had now entered herbeing. A force, more subtle than all Wis-dom, more potent than life or eternity

itself, had transfused her soul Love!Love, the first, the highest, the all-em-bracing force of the mighty Universe, andwith this new love had been ushered alsointo being, Jealousy.

" Rathunor loved Nu-nah! Am I not astrange interloper? Was it not worse bymy decision to rob Nu-nah of her loverthan to deprive her of continued physicallife?"

For, it seemed to her now, that life

without love would be more than the-agonies of the lowest hells. Then again,to live with Rathunor as his wife, whilehe all the time thought her to be Nu-nah,

Tke Midnight of the Full Moon. 45

would be an incessant torture, keener andmore intense than if she were chained by,


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as a third person, to behold him lovingthe actual Nu-n.ah in her own body.

" Holy Father and revered Hiero-phant," she moaned, " help me, I can notdecide."

" My child," came the mental response

to her call, 'if you could be assured thatRathunor would love you in Nu-nah'sbody, would the decision be easy?"

" Aye, indeed, dear Father."

' Then rest assured it will be as youdesire. We give you our sacred wordthat Rathunor will \oveyou."

Then, raising his arm, as in benedic-tion, he slowly repeated thrice, like anincantation, the words, "Rest in Peace,"

and, ere the echoes of his voice had diedaway, the soul of Sarthia had left foreverits earthly abode and Temple,

CHAPTER IV.

WITHIN THE ADYTUM.

For several days, after floating fromher body into the Astral world, Sarthiaremained in a state of profound, dream-

less slumber and then gradually passedinto a condition of semi-consciousnesswith occasional fitful gleams of memoryuntil one day she realized herself in closeproximity to two persons engaged inearnest conversation and became fullyaware of the momentous events that hadjust transpired and her present disem-bodied situation. And with a thrill in-describable she recognized the voice ofRathunor addressing the Hierophant.

" And so, most revered Father, al

Within the Adytum. 47

things are progressing favorably and to-ward a satisfactory culmination?" he said.

" Even so, my son," was the reply." And yet, continued the Prince, save theone momentary gleam of recognition,


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upon the first night of the ceremonies, thesoul of the Princess Nu-nah, to all out-ward appearance, has left entirely. Thebody is sustained, apparently, by somemagical process, the nature of which I donot understand."

" True, my son, but that need not dis-

quiet you. The resources of Nature aremany and far from being exhausted. Butthen, youth is naturally impatient. " Didyou so deeply love the Princess?"

At this point Sarthia would have with-drawn but she found that her desire tostay chained her to the spot, and glanc-ing at the Hierophant she realized that


her presence was known to him and thathe wished her to remain.

The Princess mused thoughtfully fora few moments before replying and thensaid with a half sigh, " You know, OFather, that I myself did not particularlydesire that marriage. From my earliestchildhood I have been fond of my cousinand playfellow. As she matured I haveadmired, with family pride, her perfectbeauty of form, her haughty spirit and

her ability to rule. And yet, as you, whocan so easily read the innermost secretsof the heart, must know I have not beenable to discern the happiness for myselfin this union that my soul would crave,or that you led me to expect in weddedlove. If my ambition irresistibly im-pelled me to fill the external destinies ofmankind, to become a monarch of unsur-


passed power and magnificence, thenwould Nunah be the royal consort abso-lutely adapted for such pride and pomp.But, you know, O Father, all these thingsare as empty bubbles and child toys to oneaspiring to become a Priest King, to himwho hungers and thirsts, day and nightfor wisdom, for knowledge of the moreinner secrets of Nature, guarded so jeal-ously by the Priesthood but revealed by


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the very Gods themselves to those worthyto know and fit to use and assist in carry-ing out the plans and orderly workingsof the very Universe itself.

In form and feature Nu-nah's imagemeets my highest ideal, but when I wouldspeak of the thoughts and ambitions upon

\\hich my soul dwells, then her coldlook of incomprehension appalls me withthe vast difference in our natures. Her

5O Within the Temple of his.

thoughts can never penetrate the realmwherein my life-forces are all centered.Never have I experienced from her theresponse my love would crave."

" Have you then never at any time feltthat Nu-nah's love for you could be trainedand in time evolved to the plane wherebyshe would respond to you? "

" Nu-nah does not seem capable of thelove of soul. She accepts me as a loverdue her, and whose attention and presencegratify her pride and vanity. Never once,or perhaps only once, have I ever seen orimagined I saw a recognition of love, andthat was the night of the full Moon, dur-ing the recent ceremonies. As, with

your permission, I for a moment drewnear the couch on which she reposed, shesuddenly raised to a half-sitting positionand seemed strangely startled by my pres


ence. With a thrill of hope, that finallylove was awakening, I sprang forwardand spake anxiously and fondly to her.For the first time in all my life her glance

vibrated to my heart's very core. Mybrain reeled with intoxication as shepressed my hand, and the love from hereyes burns now into my soul as I recallthat one second of bliss. But, alas! shefell back into her former lifeless stateand lingers so until I am in doubt if afterall it were not some illusion connectedwith the wonderful Magic of that night."

"Nay," said the Hierophant, "I can


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assure you that what you experienced wasveal and that if this matter reaches a suc-cessful issue you will henceforward find inNu-nah all that your soul desires, thatever will her eager' spirit lead yours in thepursuit of knowledge and the highestwisdom."


Then the Hierophant turning, men-tally addressed Sarthia, the unseen wit-ness of the interview, "Am I not right inmaking this pledge for you to Rathunor?Think you we have also fulfilled ourpromise that Rathunor shall love you?"

But her heart was too full to reply.He then directed her attention to her

location and surroundings and for thefirst time she became aware with amaze-ment, almost terror, that she was within"THE SACRED ADYTUM - - THE HOLY OFHOLIES," while the Hierophant andRathunor were within an adjoining courtand private apartment of the High Priest.

"My child," said the Hierophant inreply to her speechless inquiry as to themeaning of this wonder, " there are nobarriers to the disembodied soul. Thisplace, so religiously guarded, so inacces-


sible to the ordinary mortal, is open to anysoul having passed a certain grade ofinitiation into the divine mysteries ofNature and attained unto that purity ofheart whereby man may see his God.

" To-morrow night, on the occasion ofthe new Moon, will be consecrated within

this Holy Chamber, the union of yoursoul with that of Rathunor's and here alsowill be consummated that mystic transferbetween your soul and that of Nu-nah's.

"And now, I leave you here while Iaccompany Rathunor. As you graduallylapse into the sweet silence of this Holyplace, observe the meaning of some ofthe stupendous mysteries of Nature re-vealed here openly to the one having eyes


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to see and possessing the gift of under-standing."

Her first sensation on being left alone


was, that she was floating like the vaporof a breath upon the swaying wreaths ofburning incense, and as she reclines thusin blissful repose there dawned upon hervision a view of the vast Temple in itsabsolute entirety. It assumed the strangeoutline of a gigantic human body, all itsintricacies becoming orderly correspond-encies of the human organism in its mul-titudinous ramifications. Then all thevast ceremonial of this body passed inreview before her mind, each rite sym-

bolic of some function, physical, mentaland spiritual, and she marveled at theadaptability of the parts to each otherand then to the grand whole.

But, above all, was she impressed bythe depth in depths of meaning of thisSacred Adytum in its symbolic relation tothe whole structure. However, ere she


could tarry to reflect, the nature of thevision changed as if her eye had beenturned suddenly from the lense of aMicroscope to that of an immense Tele-scope. Before her view stretched thestarry Zodiac, in outline, the same as itsprototype, the human body the GrandTemple. The Sun and its solar systemcorresponding to various vital functionsin the human organism, but the crowningwonder of all came as she comprehendedthe relation which our planet, mother

Earth, bore to the Grand Man of theskies, and her soul was overwhelmed asall the implications of this relation rushedin upon her being.

CHAPTER V.

THE TRANSFER.


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According to the calculations made bythe chief Astrologer Priest it was just atmidnight that the conjunction of theluminaries took place in the Zodiacal signbelonging to the Moon. This union ofthe luminous orbs of the day and nightis powerfully magical in its results.

The vibrations, set in motion by thismighty union of the positive and negativeforces of Nature, react, not only upon thewaters and the Earth, but the humanfamily. Not only does the mighty oceanobey this wonderful influence in the ebband flow of its tides, but the Earth, as she

The Transfer. 57

rotates upon her axis, obeys this mighty

power and manifests in her depths andheights in her serpentine movement aboutthe Sun.

Nature's laws are very exact and man,to become the Arbiter of his own destiny,must blend his energies in harmony withthose of Nature.

Agreeable to appointment and thearrangements to be made it was necessaryfor the Hierophant and the Holy men ofthe Temple to assemble at an early hour,

although the Transfer was not to takeplace until midnight.

Much preparation was necessary as amost momentous ceremony was to be per-formed this night; one that rarely everwas performed, owing to the fact that fewof the Temple Priests were initiated intothese sacred Magical Rites. They were


too Sacred and Holy to be imparted tomany, too dangerous for possible failures,too infinite in responsibilities accompany-ing such undertakings. Only those wherethe mind, soul and spirit, blended as one intheir organism, were ever entrusted withthe interior knowledge of the SacredAdytum The Holy of Holies.

Only the invocations were to be made,


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the chants and ceremonies belonging tothe Holy Sanctuary were to be observed.The air was ladened with the sweet fra-grance of incense and those subtle per-fumes that are so delightful and enticingto the soul. Hours before the solemnRites were to be performed, every part ofthe Holy Temple must be permeated with

their magical and mystical influence.

The bodies of both Sarthia and Nu-nahlay in state before the Altar in the Holy

The Transfer. 59

Sanctuary, both robed and perfumed asif for burial.

The Hierophant of the Temple, the

Priests and the Lay Priests, and thePriestesses with their Vestal Virgins, werenow assembled in their respective places.

The hour of midnight had arrived.The chants now begun, set in vibrationthe spiritual forces that appeal only to thesoul and spirit.

.The subtle, silent will of the HighPriest mentally commanded the presenceof the departed spirit of Sarthia. At hisbidding, she came floating toward him,

and when within a certain distance fromher inanimate body, she remained hover-ing over it. Most willingly and joyfully shecame, knowing the promise of the HighPriest would be realized when she becameable to animate and control the body andmind of what was still Nu-nah's,


Rathunor was present at the urgent

request of the Priest. He little dreamedwhy his presence was so much desired,and how he, who was so ignorant of the. Temple rules and service, could be of anyassistance.

A spark had been kindled within hisvery soul, the night that Sarthia foundherself in Nu-nah's temple and for amoment consciously remembered andspoke, that had been burning deeper and


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deeper until now, it was ready to burstforth as an ever-living flame at the firstbreath of hope that this new emotion wasof the soul real and immortal.

Did he dare for a moment listen tothe whispering of the interior self ? Fearalone made him drive back and quell the

monitions that sprang from within, for O,if they were only vain hopes could he sur-

The Transfer. 61

vive the disappointment? The thoughtwas crushing, and better, he thought, notto hope than believe an illusion.

The magnetic chord that yet heldNu-nah to her frail, prostrated body had

not yet been severed. The unconscioussoul hung or rather floated about itstemple, apparently waiting for a strongerforce from the interior realm to call itaway.

The Hierophant stepped to the frontof the Altar and, raising his hands, in-voked the presence of the Gods andtheir assistance in this Sacred ceremonyof making that Transfer of the spirituallife-line that binds the spirit to soul, andsoul to body.

As the two souls hung suspended bythese magnetic life-chords above theirown bodies, through the magical influ-


ences of the Priests, the chants and musiccame closer and closer, as if drawn to-gether by some strong magnetic attraction.

Sarthia, now, as well as Nu-nah, wasunconscious of what was taking place.Nu-nah's was the natural unconsciousstate of an undeveloped soul in passingfrom the physical temple to the realmsbeyond, while Sarthia's was purposelyinduced by the magical will of the Oper-ator.

The middle of the mystical hour hadjust been reached when the two life-lines


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met and blended for one single instant,then separated and, obeying the powerfulwills of the Priests, became polarized ineach other's body.

The magical invisible agency that hadbeen animating the body of Sarthia wasnow withdrawn, and the soul of Nu-nah's

The Transfer. 63

gradually but faintly began to supply theanimating force to revive and control theapparently lifeless form.

Sarthia's spiritual consciousness wasnot immediately allowed to return. Theawakening must be gradual to her, forknowing what was being done, the joy

and ecstacy of a prolonged life in the holybonds of pure love with Rathunor wouldbe disastrous if suddenly conveyed toher consciousness.

The High Priest, turning to Rathunor,said, "Our beloved pupil, return now toyour usual duties, but fail not to return tothe Temple a little before twelve o'clockto-morrow night."

Now the bodies of Sarthia and Nu-nahwere removed to another part of the

Temple. The Priestesses and Vestals,with the chori and musicians, were dis-


missed as the first part of the solemn andsacred Rites was over, but the Priestsremained, never stopping in their magicalwork, for yet the vibrations of the new-born souls were not of sufficient strengthand power to remain unassisted, espe-

cially that of Nu-nah's.

CHAPTER VI.

THE AWAKENING.

The constant presence of some of thePriests of the Temple had been near thebodies of Nu-nah and Sarthia continu-


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ously for the last twenty-four hours, andby their magic assistance the vibrationsof the souls to their new tenements grewstronger and quite harmonious.

The hour of midnight was again nearat hand. The reviving forms of the twoyoung girls were again brought into the

Holy Sanctuary of the Temple and placedin front of the Altar and the Hierophantwho had already taken his position.

The Priestesses of the Temple with


their Vestals were quietly and solemnlywending their way to their usual places.The choir had begun to chant the opening

service when Rathunor with one of thePriests approached with slow and meas-ured strides as if a false movement woulddisturb the solemnity of this midnight'smystic silence.

As they approached the spot wherethe two bodies lay, there was a percepti-ble movement, as of consciousness in thesilent form of Nu-nah.

Just as the distant chimes pealed forththeir announcement of the midnight hour

the Hierophant arose and stepped forthto the front of the Altar and, at a silentsignal, there broke forth, as of one voice,the low-distant strains of the most en-chanting music. The voices and thetones from the musical instruments were

The Awakening. 67

so harmoniously and wonderfully blendedthat the result was magically effective.

The strains increased in volume theyseemed to approach nearer and neareruntil the whole edifice resounded andre-echoed as though filled with one vastorchestra sounding forth the Anthem ofCreative Life, "We Praise Thee, O God."This enchanting music continued forsome time, then gently died away untilonly the breathings of music could beheard, when the Hierophant raised hishands as if in supplication. The solemn,


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awful stillness of the hour was awe-inspiring.

Once, twice, thrice, the voice of theHierophant resounded throughout theSanctuary as he thus spoke to their souls:

" Arise, O ye daughter of Isis, come

forth and again' enter the daily lives of


a Vestal and a Princess. Many years noware granted to your service, and now thatyou have both been beyond the dividingline of this and the other plane, yourlives henceforth should be guided andinfluenced by that experience."

At this he descended from the Altarand took the helpless hand of Sarthia tomagically convey to the silent, lifelessbody the electric forces of life.

Turning to Rathunor, who stood near,beckoning him to his side, he took his handand led him to that which was Nu-nah'sbody, and gently raising the apparentlylifeless hand of the silent form placed itwithin that of Rathunor's. The effectwas indeed magical.

Rathunor was held spell-bound, thethrilling sensations, the emotions thatsprang forth from the heart were electri

The Awakening. 69

fying. He could feel the tense vibrationspassing from his hand to that of her body,the source of which he could not fathomnor understand, and little did he care atthat moment when he perceived the slight

tremor that was creeping over the here-tofore lifeless form of his Princess Nu-nah.Here, Rathunor would have been over-come by his emotions of joyful bliss andthrown himself prostrate at the feet ofthe Priest in thankful gratitude for therestoration to life of his lovely Nu-nah,had not the Hierophant just at this mo-ment laid his hand upon Rathunor'sshoulder saying, " My child, have you be-come unconscious of the place and the


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occasion, and the solemn promise yougave me to bravely follow my instructionswithout a show of weakness. Let not anoutward manifestation of your feelings


escape you again. Are you yourselfagain?"

With a mighty effort of his will Rathu-nor commanded an outward calm at least,but he could not speak, he could only bowhis head in assurance and being told toretain the hand of Nu-nah, the Priestcontinued audibly, " In the name of theAlmighty and ever-living God I nowjoin these two souls as one. May theirconsciousness of this, their soul-union,

dawn upon their outward memory as timeproceeds, and then journey together inconscious union on the eternal path ofprogress to the Divine Throne of God.Amen! Amen!"

Rathunor heard but did not under-stand and being overcome by the silentover-powering influence surrounding him,fell insensible to the floor beside the re-viving form of Nu-nah.

The Awakening. 71

As soon as he had been conveyed toan outer court, the Hierophant again con-tinued. Turning his attention to Sarthia,mentally he called three times, "Nu-nah,Nu-nah, Nu-nah, henceforth you shall beknown as Sarthia the Vestal. May theguardian angels that have been placedover your reviving body, keep and holdthe soul with it until health of body andstrength of mind returns. God bless our

new-found Vestal. Amen."

As the last echo of the Priest's voicedied away the music burst in a joyfulsong of praise, and continued until thebodies of each of the young girls wereremoved. Sarthia's to that formerly oc-cupied by the Vestal, and Nu-nah's tothat of the home of the Princess.

Rathunor soon revived in the fresh


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air of the outer court and now being sum-

72 . Within the Temple of his.

moned by a messenger from the Hiero-phant presented himself again before him.

" My son," said the High Priest, "goto the home of the Princess and remain,either with, or near her until three cyclesof seven shall pass by. At the end oftwenty-one days you may return to yourown home and enter the accustomed lifeof a Prince, until that time shall comewhen the Prince of the world shall enterthe path that leads to a King of Wisdom,"and with a fervent press of the hand anda benediction for his soul's welfare he bidhim good-night and retired from the HolySanctuary.

CHAPTER VII.

A VISIT TO THE CHIEF ASTROLOGER.

A few weeks after the preceding cer-emonies, a messenger announced to theAstrologer Priest that the Priestess soughtan interview.

Hermo was at his post making the

usual, daily calculations for the Priest.As the Priestess entered, Hermo arose,and was about to withdraw, when thePriestess, by a wave of her hand, gavehim to understand his presence was re-quired.

The Priestess began, " O, most Vener-ated Father, I come again to ask assist-ance, with your astrological knowledge,

74 Within the 'Temple of his.

in behalf of Sarthia. The memory ofthe past seems to be entirely blotted out.Is there any aspect showing that memorywill return, and if not, at what time dothe planets indicate a commencement ofthe training of the mind that will bring asuccessful issue in spiritual things? Wewill have to commence with her as a childand train the body, mind and so*il to


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Vestal Service."

The Astrologer turned to Hermo andsaid, " Hear you the request of ourPriestess here? Make note, and see atwhat time the planets point favorably tothe initiation of our new Sarthia into theTemple Service of Isis."

"How is our new Sarthia?" inquiredthe Priest.

" Nothing, as yet," answered the Priest-ess, " But that does not disturb my hope

A Visit to the Cfiief Astrologer. 75

and faith that she will become all that wewish and desire of her, and instead of

having but one Vestal we shall have two,for ere long Nu-nah will also be numberedamong our Vestals, and Rathunor as oneof our Priests."

Thanking the Priest for his promisedservice the Priestess withdrew.

The Astrologer returned to his studiesand was soon absorbed with them, when,suddenly he turned to Hermo and said,"Hermo, I shall place Sarthia under yourspecial tutelage as soon as she is ready to

commence her studies in Astrology."

The suddenness of the Priest's remarksquite confused the young scribe and sethim to seriously thinking. Strangethoughts came into his mind, "why shouldSarthia not continue her studies with me,why would she become a special and nota fellow student?"


He could not account for these strangethoughts that had been excited within hismind, and the rest of the hours of workdid not show the usual amount accom-plished.

At an early hour the next night, beforeHermo had arrived for his night's work,the Astrologer Priest sent for the Priest-ess. She hastily responded to the sum-


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mons feeling there was some very impor-tant news to be received. As soon as sheentered the Priest said, " Most noblePriestess, I find by the calculations made,that not before another month may ourinfant child, Sarthia, be initiated, as apupil, into the Temple of Isis. Two daysbefore the full Moon the spiritual rays

will be most active and potent, and beingof so harmonious a nature we may hopefor the most satisfactory results. The

A Visit to the Chief Astrologer 77

task will be slow and require muchpatience, my Priestess, for the hereditarytendencies of the brain, that have so farinfluenced that soul's life and experiences,will have to be polarized in other channels

and gradually awakened to consciousness.The life of the body it has been animat-ing in past years was not of such a natureas to mature a healthy soul.

" The work now, with our new Sarthia,is with the Soul, to make it equal to thebrain that has been cultivated and en-larged in spiritual ways; while with Nu-nah, the work will be in arousing anddeveloping that brain to the conscious re-sponse of the matured soul. Do I makemyself plain to you? In my young pupil,

Hermo, we will have a most valuable as-sistant in our work with Sarthia, for Ihave discovered that the divine relation

78 Within, the Temple of his.

of brother and sister exists between them.They are blest with being the emanationsfrom the same divine state and childrenof the same spiritual parents. I spoke toHermo of Sarthia last night, at the same

time willing that my new discovery mightbe imparted to his soul, which I could seehad been partially accomplished.

"We will allow them often in eachother's society, and that holy love ofbrother of sister, and sister of brother,which can only be kindled in the outerheart when this spiritual relation exists." This will soon be recognized by eachof them, and this alone will be a most


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potent influence in nourishing and teach-ing the soul of Sarthia. Nothing lies inSarthia's path that portends serious evilfor many years to come. Therefore, mygood Priestess, take new hope and cour-

A Visit to the Chief Astrologer. 79

age, and not many Moons will grow andwane before an inward pride will be bornfor your new Vestal."

The Priestess retired after thankinghim most cordially, and could hardly con-ceal her emotions of joy and rapture untilshe was safe in her own apartments, whereshe could give full vent, in tears and criesof joy and gratitude.

As soon as all traces of the effects,which this knowledge had produced, wereerased, and she became perfectly calmand composed, she sought Sarthia'schamber. The young girl was recliningupon a couch that had been drawn nearthe window, apparently much absorbed instudying the heavens. Scarcely did shenotice the presence of the Priestess untilshe knelt beside her and said, ''Whatthoughts are being born in my Sarthia's

8o Within the Temple of his.

mind as she views the mighty heavensabove with its millions of silent monitors,awaiting our pleasure to read and under-stand? Are they speaking to my darlingchild? Do you hear their silent voicesand feel their subtle and powerful influ-ences upon you?"

The young girl did not reply immedi-ately. The body was still very weak and

feeble, the mind was as one just awaken-ing from a prolonged slumber.

" My beloved Priestess, did you speakto me of the stars, those loving lights inthe heavens? They do seem to speak,but I can not understand and know whatthey say. Do you, dear Mother, and canyou tell me ?"

This first ray of awakening memory


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was more radiant to the Priestess than athousand stars could have produced if alltheir rays could have blended into one.

A Visit to the Chief Astrologer. 81

But calmness was her external bearing.Seldom any manifestation of an unusualemotion, was permitted to find an out-ward expression either in manner orspeech. She had attained that perfectcommand of herself that neither joy norsorrow, good nor evil, praise nor blame,could unbalance the perfect poise andtranquillity of her developed Soul.

" My Sarthia," replied the Priestess, " Ican not know what they are saying \.Q you,but they do speak to me. They tell me

that life is immortal, that the growth andthe progress of the soul are eternal, thatwe may know and read their languagewhile in these bodies if we try; then aswe draw nearer and nearer to them, asour souls grow and become familiar withtheir teachings, we can know them aswell, if not better, than our AstrologerPriests do, also as well as your brotherHermo is learning to do."


" My brother Hermo," and therewas a perceptible light of intelligence inthe eyes for a moment.

The Priestess was not speaking to themind, but to the soul, at the same timewilling to find a response there. Themere words availed nothing to her, onlyin so much as they expressed the long-ings and desires of the interior self.

As Sartha said no more, the Priestessarose and, moving quietly about theroom, gave a few directions and cautionsto those in attendance, then presentlywithdrew.

That night was passed by the Priestessin her own private chamber, not in sleepand rest, but actively and earnestly en-gaged in silent prayer for her new-bornchildren, Nu-nah, Sarthia and Rathunor-


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CHAPTER VIII.

PRINCESS NU-NAH.

The morning following the Priestess'

visit to Sarthia's apartments, she sent amessenger to inquire for the welfare ofPrincess Nu-nah.

She was reported to have slept well,seemed much stronger, but a peculiarchange had taken place during her almostfatal illness. She spoke strangely, almostweirdly at times, which excited muchcomment and anxiety amongst her imme-diate friends and relatives.

The Princess had been a general favor-

ite and much admired by those occupyingthe same station in life with herself; butby those who were subject to her com-


mands and rule, she was looked upon ascold, stern, and heartless, kind in her waywhen obeyed, but the slightest disobedi-ence brought scornful reproaches andoften punishment.

The Priestess, knowing the source ofthe peculiar change spoken of, felt thatall was well. No other attention thanthe presence of Rathunor was needed.The developed soul of the Vestal Sarthiawould soon come into control of the brainshe was now trying to find expressionthrough.

Then, too, the organs of the brain thatSarthia's soul would naturally vibrate,had never become active, nor devel-

oped; they, as it were, were dormant,fast asleep, awaiting the pulsating vibra-tions of the spiritual influx to give themlife and usefulness. While those that

Princess Nu-nah. 85

had been so fully developed in the brain,by the life of the Princess, found no cor-


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responding vibrations from the soul.

Truly, a strange commingling of thetwo opposing forces, and one in whichtime was required to bring about perfectadjustment.

The High Priest had commanded all

visitors to be excluded, except Rathunor,who was to have access at all times, andas the Hierophant's word was that ofGod to them, so, purely from a religiousstandpoint, they were strictly obeyed.While the Priestess and others of theTemple knew the secret of the Priest'sstrict injunctions, they likewise knew thatnone of Sarthia's associates dared ap-proach, lest their presence would toosuddenly awake to consciousness theslumbering soul, before the brain had yet


fully responded and vibrated to the newanimating spark of life.

Rathunor, most of all, observed thechange in the Princess; at the slightesttouch there was a response within hisvery presence struck the chords ofsympathy that existed between them.This was, to him, a very unaccountable

change. In all his life association withNu-nah these emotions, that now seemedto spring from the soul, had never beforebeen experienced. He was very muchinclined to attribute it to an abnormalsympathy aroused by her sickness andterrible suffering. Still, the words of theHigh Priest haunted him and the feelingsborn from within, on the night of thesolemn Rites at the Temple, could not bevanished by any amount of reasoning;still he would not allow such thoughts to

Princess Nu-nah. 87

be nourished by the slightest hope muchless be watered by the spirit of faith andallowed to grow. Although Rathunorwas brave in external pain, and daringlycourageous in acts of chivalry, he was an


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infant when subject to disappointment.Here was the battle of self going on.

" Have I the strength and manly cour-age to bear the disappointment born froma delusive hope? Not yet." So he sufferedand heeded not the whisperings fromwithin, until he could not endure it any

longer, when he sought the presence ofthe Hierophant for advice and enlighten-ment. Scarcely able to hold in check hisimpatience he burst forth without therecognition due the superior presence ofa High Priest.

" O, most Holy and Revered Father,tell me, am I wrong in not listening to


the monitions that are racking my inmostbeing? May I hope the love that isgrowing within my soul will be surelyrecognized and reciprocated by Nu-nahon her return to physical health? Is thislove a vain delusion on my part, an imagi-nation born from sympathies that willvanish as soon as health is restored andwe enter the whirl of the social worldagain ? If it is in thy power, O Father, tellme the truth. Repeat thy assuring wordsonce more, and I will be guided by them

in the future, and never again allow theshadow of doubt to cross the threshold ofmy mind."

" My child," said the High Priest," once more I assure you of the lovingresponse of Nu-nah's soul and mind, assoon as she is herself again. But, markyou well, at the return of consciousness,

Princess Nu-nah. 89

be not rash in any of your words or acts;remember, her return to life is as a new-born babe weak, tender and easily im-pressed by stronger minds and wills thanits own. You are the stronger at present,and all patience and indulgence areexacted from you. Let her imaginationsand fancies play as they will for awhile;yours must be calm, loving, sympatheticand unwavering in hope and faith that


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all will eventually be well; and again, Iassure you that not many years shall passbefore you will enter the path and the lifeyour soul is now longing for. PrincessNu-nah will more than compensate youfor all the kind attentions you now bestowupon her in the guiding, teaching andleading your soul in the paths to spiritual

knowledge and the spiritual life, whilestill inhabiting the physical form.

9O Within the Temple of his.

" The hungerings of your soul shall bemore than satisfied by her ministeringspirit. The interior consciousness willgradually dawn upon you both, but toNu-nah first." Then, taking Rathunor bythe hand, he continued, "Doubt no more,

my child, have faith in the InfiniteWisdom that guides and directs thestruggling soul through the intricate waysof evolution up to the final consciousnessof Immortal Life. God be with and blessyou."

Rathunor had no words to expresshis gratitude. But they would have beenuseless to the Hierophant, for the new-born light that shone forth, though dimly,was more to the Priest than a world ofwords.

He merely looked, bowed, and with aervent pressure of the hand, was gone

Princess Nu-nah. 91

from the presence of the Holy Priest. Ashe retraced his steps toward the home ofPrincess Nu-nah, a holy calm pervadedhis whole being; his doubts fled as anenemy; his excitement was transformed

into tranquil earnestness; a sublime senseof the realities of life filled his brain, anda willingness to await the progress anddevelopment, that time would bring forthand mature, possessed him, until he wasso changed that he scarcely recognizedhimself.

Was this change volitional?


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CHAPTER IX.

THE INITIATION.

Days of weary watching, and toilsomecare that the new-born Vestal would notbe misled in her awakening thoughts,

were necessary. The body needed butlittle care other than the proper nourish-ment and attention of any one in usualhealth. Sarthia's physical organism hadnot become depleted by disease andsuffering, and the disorganization thathad commenced was checked by themagical agent that had been placed overit, even before Sarthia had entirely left it.

The lethargy was more mental thanphysical. It was that semi-consciousnessthat precedes sleep, or that one some-

The Initiation. 93

times experiences when awakened sud-denly out of a deep, profound slumber.

The Priestess visited her many timesthroughout the day when she could sparethe time from her duties in the Temple.In the course of a few days Sarthiawas able to be assisted in short walks

about the halls and corridors, but tooklittle heed of things about her. Day byday, the body grew stronger and a newlight began to dawn in the eyes and shoneupon the countenance of the fair younggirl.

In the meantime, Hermo had beenapprised by the Astrologer Priest of thetrue relation existing between himselfand Sarthia. His joy knew no bounds,for neither his heart nor soul had everthrilled with the love of mother, sister, or

kindred. It had been his misfortune to

94 Within the Temple of /sis.

be deprived of his parents before hisyoung mind and heart could be moved bythe tender emotions of love, but now itneeded no more than the Priest's revela-tions to kindle into flaming fires that


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something, he knew not what, that hadbeen smoldering in his bosom all his life.

Now, the Astrologer's words wereclear and the cause of the strangethoughts that were excited in his mindwas revealed. Over and over he askedhimself, " Can I wait to see my beloved

sister?"

His impatience became equal with hisjoy, and days that had before passedas moments now seemed as ages. Onemorning, much to the Priestess' surprise,a messenger announced that Hermo de-sired an interview with her in the waiting-room below. The Priestess descended

The Initiation. 95

to where Hermo was waiting and, with aquestioning look in her face, clasped hishand in a firm but anxious manner,inquired, " Is all well with our youngAstrologer, Hermo, this morning. Doeshe bring tidings from our revered Father?Has any new testimony been given by thestars that portends evil to our Sarthia?"

Hermo stood in mute astonishment." How could the Priestess receive- suchforebodings from his presence when his

whole being was throbbing with pul-sations of unbounded happiness," hethought.

"Nay, my dear Priestess, quite thereverse. Has not our worthy Fatheracquainted you with my new-found joy,my Love my Sister? Know you not thedivine relation that exists between Sarthiaand myself? The hours have seemed

g6 Within the Temple of I sis.

days since this knowledge was revealedto me and I now beg to see my new sisterand walk with her and yourself upon thelawn in the private grounds of theTemple. Can my request be granted, QPriestess ?"

She still retained his hand and, againpressing it warmly between her own, said,


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"Our brave and noble Hermo deservesthis blessing as a reward for his honesttoil alone in his struggle for Truth andKnowledge. Yes, my dear Hermo, I wasmade aware of the relation between youand our new Sarthia and have beenanxious for this moment to arrive whenyou would be sent to escort Sarthia in

her daily walks about the grounds, but Icaution you to be guarded in your words.Remember she is yet but an infant andmust be taught as a child. Remain here

The Initiation. 97

and I will go and bring Sarthia thitherand we will walk together."

It was not long before the Priestess,

Sarthia and her attendant appeared. ThePriestess was leading Sarthia and as theyapproached Hermo placed her hand inthat of his saying, "Sarthia, I place you inthe care and protection of your brotherHermo."

'Hermo! Hermo!! My brother Her-mo?" said Sarthia.

To the penetrating eyes of the Priest-ess and Hermo the light of consciousnesswas mometariiy seen and to the clairvoy-

ant vision of the Priestess a startlingscene was beheld. The vibrations of soulto soul, the love that had been kindledin Hermo's heart and soul went out withsuch intensity that it aroused into a vividactivity the slumbering soul of Sarthia,

98 Within tJie Tcnible oj his.

and the brain, being already so finelytuned to the higher vibrations of the

Spirit, responded at once.

The fresh air, the green grass, thebeautiful flowers and shrubbery, with theinspiring presence of Hermo, were likemagic to quicken the pulsations of bodyand mind and bring to her cheek andeyes the flush of health and life. Notmuch of the conversation was directed toSarthia, but when reference to the starswas made, she instantly inquired, "Brother


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Hermo, do the stars speak to you, and doyou knew what they say? Our lovelyPriesress here can read them, and howmuch I would love to speak with them,too."

" I will teach you how some day, mysister, as soon as you are able to com-

mence your studies."

"Will that be soon?"

The Initiation 99

"Yes, in a short time; so soon as youbecome an attendant in The Temple ofIsis."

Sarthia was silent, and the Priestess

reminded them it was time to return,Sarthia to her room and Hermo to hisstudies, while the Priestess' presence wasrequired in the Temple.

These walks continued daily with mostsatisfactory results to the Priestess andthe Hierophant. All fears of the perfectharmonizing of the new soul to the bodyof Sarthia were allayed. The animatingspark of life was growing stronger andthe vibrations from soul to body werecomplete; not with consciousness, but

that involuntary vibratory exchange thatexists with the majority of the peoplethat make up the earth's human family.

loo Within the Temple of his.

As only the higher portion of the brain ofSarthia had been active the soul mustnecessarily manifest itself through thoseorgans. Often, were the much belovedPriestess, Hermo and Sarthia's attend-

ants, surprised at her expressions andprofound questions on spiritual subjects.

It was nearing the time when Sarthiawas to take her initiatory step as a Vestalin the Temple of Isis. In fact, only onemore day intervened before the ceremonywas to take place. As the incidents rela-tive to the transfer were known to all theTemple attendants, it was looked forwardto with much silent rejoicing and grati-


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tude that they had not been robbed oftheir lovely Vestal who always was heldin sacred esteem by them all.

All had been notified to prepare forthe Initiatory service the music, chants,

The Initiation. 101

and ceremonies sacred to this occasion,must be in readiness. The night had ar-rived; the fair Goddess of the night shoneforth in all her radiant splendor, seem-ingly conscious, that she was sheddingforth the magnetic influence necessary forthe sacred Rites now about to be per-formed. It had almost reached the Zenithwhen the solemn march of the Priestesses,Vestals and attendants that were to con-

duct Sarthia to the Holy Sanctuary ofthe Temple started. The Priestess walkedbeside Sarthia. Sarthia was clothed inpure spotless linen, her head was barewith the exception of a wreath of laurelleaves that rested lightly upon her flowinghair. In her hands she carried a white-bound volume which contained the songs,chants, litany and regime for the Vestalsof the Temple.

IO2 Within the Temple of his.

Just as they reached the door, theHigh Priest arose, and simultaneously themusic burst forth in joyful strains thatspoke welcome, courage and love to theheart of Sarthia. When they reached thefoot of the altar, where stood the Hiero-phant, Sarthia knelt upon a velvet cushionat his feet. The music ceased while theHigh Priest stood with uplifted hands insilent prayer. At a signal, the choir be-gan chanting the Litany. Sarthia was

bidden to rise, when the Priest, in meas-ured and solemn tones, addressed her:

" Do you come to pledge yourself toTemple Service? Is it your desire to be-co.ne a Vestal of Isis? Do you take thepledge of celibacy to the virgin Rites ofthe Temple; your time, energy and pur-pose to be devoted to the duties that de-volve upon a Vestal?"


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7 he Initiation. 103

The low, clear voice of Sarthia washeard throughout the Sanctuary as shebowed and answered in assent.

"So be it, my holy virgin. I now com-mit your soul to the Guardian Angels ofthis Sacred Sanctuary to guide, guard andprotect your budding soul to perfectat-one-ment with its divine center, thatyou may inherit immortal life while yetwith us. Amen!"

Sarthia opened the book within herhands and, kissing its pages which shehad already subscribed to, handed it tothe High Priest. He took it, and held itin his left, while he placed his right hand

upon her head, and said:

"Ibid thee welcome, my Vestal Sar-thia, and commend thy soul to the Godsabove, that ever keep watch o'er thechildren of earth. God bless thee. Amen!Amen!"

1O4 Within the Temple of his.

Then, as if they were voicing the words

of the Hierophant, the chants grew louder,the music poured forth in grander tonesas though to join the invisible hosts abovein praise to God most high.

The ceremony was over and Sarthiawas conducted back to her chamber, aVestal of The Temple of Isis. The occultpowers that had been evoked in behalfof Sarthia soon became manifest in herdaily life. The zeal and zest with whichshe pursued her studies and the under-standing of their interior meanings were

sufficient evidence of her teacher's in-spiring influence. She was soon placedunder her brother Hermo's instruction inastronomical* and astrological lore, andhere also displayed a proficiency in learn-ing that surprised Hermo and delightedthe Astrologer Priests. At Temple Serv-

The Initiation. 105


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ice she was all devotion and, as an Attend-ant, ever true and faithful. The brotherand sister became devotedly attached toeach other and the Priestess often ob-served this attachment, which sent-a pangthrough her heart, lest such joy andhappiness might not be granted Hermo

for the remainder of his life. Then in-stantly would she offer a silent prayerthat such supreme happiness would betheirs throughout eternity.

CHAPTER X.

THE PRINCESS' WEDDING.

The Princess' recovery was very slow,owing to the great depletion of the

physical body during her recent illness.Much care and attention were bestowedupon her by her royal friends. All theluxury which wealth alone could procure,and the kindly influences of loving asso-ciates were brought to bear to speedilyhasten the restoration of their Princessto her former health and spirits. Healthwas slowly but surely gaining the as-cendency, but the spirits of heart and mindwere not of that buoyant, external naturethat she formerly displayed.

With her return to health, demands of

The Princess Wedding. 107

a social nature were made upon her. Sheenjoyed pleasures but a seriousness at-tended her every movement that muchannoyed her friends. The attendantsand servants were excited to wonder ather kind and thoughtful interests of themwhile many thought it was due to her

weak physical condition, others remarked,how much the Princess' sickness had im-proved her. Those that before fearedher, now began to love and seek to please

and serve her.

Rathunor was a daily visitor, and re-membering the advice and instructions


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of the Hierophant he was calm, silent,and patient in his attentions to her andapparently took no heed of her fancies andstrange conversation. She would con-stantly plan amusements and social en-tertainments on a grand scale, but with

io8 Within the Temple of his.

such a seriousness of purpose that it quiteannoyed Rathunor at times and causedhim to wonder if this was really his formerNu-nah.

While the annoyance came purelyfrom the external, there was an interiorattraction that was, irresistibly, holdinghim spell-bound to her side. His happi-ness now was greatest when they sat, rode

or walked in' silence. Little did he dream,while in that silence which so enrapturedhim, the soul of Nu-nah was blending anddrawing the electric life-essence from hisown to hers. That interchange wasgoing on wherein there is no robbery, butan inter-blending of the magnetic andelectric life-forces that cause to springinto activity the harmonious vibrations ofa complete whole, and the reaction uponboth brain and the physical organism

The Princess Wedding. log

was health, contentment and happinessthat rises above all external cares, sorrowsand discords.

Although the soul of the, now known,Princess was highly developed it couldfind but few responsive echoes fromthe dormant spiritual organs of the brain.These she must arouse to sensitivenessand action. It was this that gave rise to

the peculiar ideas, expressed in her con-versation, that so mystified her friends.Visitors soon began to pour in upon hercongratulations, presents and invitationsto once again enter the gilded salons offashion and the round of amusements thatare the daily life of a favorite Princess.To all she gave a modest, quiet reply,neither accepting nor rejecting their at-tentions, which left them in wonderingdoubt at times of her sanity.


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In the midst of some grand occasionshe would be suddenly missed and onbeing sought out would be found con-

cealed in some pleasant nook, or evenout in the open air, or beside an openwindow, absorbed in meditation or gazinginto the heavens. When her attentionwas attracted she would start and, with astrange, far-away look in her eyes thatwould indicate to a superficial observershe had been asleep, would allow herself,to be led back and enter the festivities ofthe hour.

With all their efforts they could notenthuse her with the excitement and

merriment surrounding her. But, if anyone should become serious and expressthoughts that appealed to the interior,she was all attention and the questions thatwere so ready when such an opportunity

The Princess Wedding. in

afforded showed plainly that, althoughpresent in body, the soul and interestswere in other realms and spheres than

this.

No one but Rathunor could hold herattention for any length of time. Withhim she was animated, and charminglybeautiful and joyous and would, withsome enthusiasm, enter into the pleasan-tries of the hour which brought to herface the charming attraction of naturalbeauty. Behind those orbs of visionthere seemed to shine forth a light thatwas more radiant than the gorgeouslybrilliant illuminations of the salons. Her

beautiful face, her perfect form andbearing, made her the center of attrac-tion and she was much sought after. But,as soon as she was induced to leaveRathunor's side, that which made her

H2 Within the Temple of Isis.

presence so irresistibly attractive and


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radiant before, faded out.

Thus time passed on, and as healthreturned, Prince Rathunor pressed hissuit. There was now, no apparent reasonwhy he could not claim his promised brideand make the Princess Nu-nah his own.His more earnest friends cautioned him

to wait further developments and, in anundertone, reminded him of the peculiarand unnatural bearing of the Princessat times. They were sure, in time, theironce lovely Princess would be herselfagain. Rathunor listened, knowing theirkindly interest sprang from good motives,but he was silent he could not speakfor none would understand. The yearn-ings of his heart and soul would not bequelled by any outward show.

While to the world Nu-nah was a


source of mystical wonder, to Rathunorshe was his stay and comfort. He neededno further evidence and assurance ofNu-nah's love for him. Too often hadhe experienced the response from withinto her silent pleadings for light, truthand wisdom. The attraction of theouter world was losing its fascination

for him, the longings from within grewstronger and more clamorous for out-ward expression until, one day, he ad-vanced the subject of astrology to thePrincess Nu-nah. For an instant, herwhole being was illuminated by that mys-terious light for a single moment the soularose to the supremacy of the brain andfound a faint glimmering expression thatwas visible to Rathunor's ever-watchfuleye.

"Astrology, my Rathunor, fascinates

H4 Within the Temple of his.

me with its name and the wonders andmysteries it is said to reveal. Do youthink those Astrologer Priests of theTemple know whereof they speak, and dothey read the stars and gain from themthe wisdom they are said to possess?"


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Here was the first opportunity to pre-sent these sacred subjects to Nu-nah'smind. He tried to think and, feeling thatthe present excitement of the brain'shigher organs, was of a temporary nature,he was really at a loss what to say thatwould be most effective and impress itself

indelibly upon her awakening brain.

" Yes. my dear Nu-nah, I believe theydo possess the knowledge they claimand, I also am convinced that muchof that wisdom and knowledge isgained through their understanding thelaws of astrology. Those celestial bodies


in our heavens were not placed there byour Divine Creator without a purpose. Ibelieve they have an influence upon usthat can be learned, defined and utilizedby those who study and know this influ-ence through astronomy and astrology.Nu-nah what is that which produces theinterior longings to know? Is it not thatthere is something to know somethingthat our common brains can not graspand analyze? Do you not think thatsilent, yet persistent, monitor which liesconcealed somewhere within our being is

excited to action from some source otherthan our outward selves, and that longingto go out must be accounted for by asomething without that calls and attractsus to it? May this not be the stars thatwe see twinkling and motioning to us aswe gaze into the midnight heavens?"

ii6 Within the Temple of his.

He stopped, wondering what the effect

of his words would be, when, to his amaze-ment, there appeared a more vivid con-sciousness in her eyes and features thanhe had ever seen since her return to phys-ical health and, taking new hope fromthis manifestation, he continued, " Do youlove the social world longer? Is therenot that longing, too, within your bosomfor something more real, more ennoblingthan the pastimes of worldly pleasures?"


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At the mention of the worldly things,the light from her eyes died out and wasgone. Rathunor said no more but silentlythanked God that he had for those fewmoments assisted the soul of Nu-nah tovibrate, too; and had set in motion thevitalizing currents to the spiritual portionof the brain and earnestly prayed that

this might be the beginning of many op-portunities that were to follow.

The Princess Wedding. 1 1 7

Realizing that only he could arousethe dormant organs of her spiritual brain,he became more anxious than ever tohave her constantly in his company. Heagain pressed his suit and the day for thewedding nuptials was to be at once sub-

mitted to the Astrologer.

Rathunor again sought the AstrologerPriest for advice. He wished to knowwhen the stars would point most favor-ably toward such a momentous event.This, the Astrologer was not long in find-ing out and soon conveyed the news toRathunor that at an early date suchmight be consummated. As the Princearose to go the Priest took his hand andsaid, "My child, in taking the PrincessNu-nah as your wife, you obey the holy

intuitions of the soul and not only willyou be united in soul but in body and

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