My Library

Magdalene...? Gradually there is a change. The altar appears outlined with white light, the sanctuary vibrant with power. My eyes are closed, but inner sight—deliberately inhibited for many years of Wartime life—is aroused and aware. Behind and above altar a form appears—tall and impassive—a man. all red from head to foot, as if clad in crimson armour. He approaches, and stands behind and a little above me. All fear gradually disappears, and a great joy wells up from within me. I feel, too, a sense of comradeship with him—as though he were my friend who gladly welcomes me in his church. Dread of the near future has been with me. We are shortly going forward again, and are undertaking special training for a new departure in tank warfare. But now all fear leaves me; I feel supported, as though his armour were upon me and made me safe. A firm conviction conics that all will be well, that I shall not be alone in the Hell that has soon to be faced... that I shall come throughly. I did not see his face clearly. There was an impression of a clear-cut, cleanshaven countenance —of a smile—and I felt that he realized fully the state of my mind and my needs, and gave of his power without stint. I was inwardly fortified by a strength which he called up from the deep within me. He gave me a sense or blessed companionship. I knew him, and still know him. On many succeeding evenings, after the day’s training was finished, I returned to his church and to him. Many times afterwards I used the thought of him when most I needed it, and he never failed. Some day I hope to re-visit the valley of the Ternoise and the little church on the hill dedicated to St. Martin. I hope I shall not be alone, and that we two shall give thanks together for a great Light that shone in the darkness—for a healing that came to shattered nerves, and for a story which helped.someone waiting anxiously at home. And we shall ask a blessing upon those who built the little church, and upon the gracious Guardian of the holy place, who gave a welcome and held out his hand to a younger Brother who was finding his dharma rather beyond his strength.
THE WAY OF KNOWLEDGE