Lights and shadows of spiritualism

294 MODERN SPIRITUALISM.course did not suffice. "The Biblical spirits," we are told, "cameone after another, before the Nazarene. St. John immediatelypreceded him, telling us that he came to purify us before receivingthe Great Master." Comment is as unnecessary as impossible.America, it appears, rejoices in a spiritualist terming himself" the prophet and servant of God." This valuable exponent of ourcause lately drew together in Philadelphia other enthusiasts ascrazy as himself, and styled the astonishing assembly "A NationalConvention." His own part in the said convention was a trulybenevolent one. Before the reformers whom he had gathered hedrew from his pocket a frightened pigeon, and, tossing it up to theroof, proclaimed that the era of universal brotherhood had atlast arrived, and that, in token thereof, he let loose the dove ofpeace.Many years ago I had an experience with this man, which,I think, deserves to be placed on record. I was at the time veryyoung, notbeing above eighteen, and was staying with friends inHartford, Conn. One day, whilst the younger members of thefamily and myself were together, the servant brought word that" a strange-looking man had called, asking to see Mr. Home."I sent back a message to the effect that I was unableto come, andthat one of my friends would see him, and learn his business withme. Presently I changed my mind, and went myself. In thedrawing-room I found a visitor whose singular appearance somewhatsurprised me.He was standing with his eyes tightly closed,and a generally- cataleptic air pervading him. However, I had notmuch time to study his looks. At the sound of my footsteps homoved slightly, and, without opening his eyes, ejaculated :"I don't want you; I have come for Daniel Home!" andmotioned me away with his hand.I regarded him quietly for a moment, and then asked, " What isyour business with Daniel Homo " ?" I can't tell you ; let him come himself."" Unless you tell me, he will know nothing about it ; let mehear what you want."