My Library

my secret among the magi of the East—men not half so civilized as are we of the West; but who, nevertheless, know a great deal more than the sapient men of Christendom—that is, less of machinery, politics, and finance; but a great deal more of the human soul, its nature, its powers, and the methods of their developement. Instead of being surprised at modern scientific revelations, we of the True Temple——’ ‘What Temple?’ I interrupted him to ask. ‘Of the Supreme Dome of the Rosie Cross,’ said he. “The Emperor must have heard this question and its answer, for he directly crossed over to us, and actually joined this curious tête-à-tête. The Count bowed; did not seem at all embarrassed by the presence of the son of Admiral Verhuiel, the great Dutch founder of the Second Empire— or Emperor ——. “ ‘As I was saying,’ the Count resumed, ‘instead of being elated at what Western science has done, we are ashamed of the tardy steps of “Progress”—Progress indeed! Where is it, save in wretchedness, poverty, crime, selfishness, and in the accrement of misery. Progress is more fancied than real. Civilization is a misnomer, utilitarianism a desecration of man’s soul, Philosophy an imposture, and learning altogether false!’ “I was pleased to see the Emperor join the conversation at this point, for two reasons: first,