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+Project Gutenberg’s Daybreak: A Romance of an Old World, by James Cowan
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: Daybreak: A Romance of an Old World
+
+Author: James Cowan
+
+
+Release Date: April, 2005 [EBook #7814]
+This file was first posted on May 19, 2003
+Last Updated: November 3, 2016
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: UTF-8
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK DAYBREAK ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Anne Soulard, Suzanne Shell, William Craig,
+Robert Laporte, Steen Christensen and the Online Distributed
+Proofreading Team
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+DAYBREAK
+
+A ROMANCE OF AN OLD WORLD
+
+
+By James Cowan
+
+
+[Illustration: “HE MADE THE STARS ALSO”]
+
+
+
+CONTENTS.
+
+
+CHAPTER I. AN ASTRONOMER ROYAL.
+
+CHAPTER II. A FALLEN SATELLITE.
+
+CHAPTER III. TWO MEN IN THE MOON.
+
+CHAPTER IV. AND ONE WOMAN.
+
+CHAPTER V. OUR INTRODUCTION TO MARS.
+
+CHAPTER VI. A REMARKABLE PEOPLE.
+
+CHAPTER VII. RAPID TRANSIT ON MARS.
+
+CHAPTER VIII. THORWALD PUZZLED.
+
+CHAPTER IX. THORWALD AS A PROPHET.
+
+CHAPTER X. MORE WORLDS THAN TWO.
+
+CHAPTER XI MARS AS IT IS.
+
+CHAPTER XII. WE REACH THORWALD’S HOME.
+
+CHAPTER XIII. A MORNING TALK.
+
+CHAPTER XIV. PROCTOR SHOWS US THE EARTH.
+
+CHAPTER XV. A NIGHT ADVENTURE.
+
+CHAPTER XVI. AN UNLIKELY STORY.
+
+CHAPTER XVII. THE DOCTOR IS CONVINCED.
+
+CHAPTER XVIII. STRUCK BY A COMET.
+
+CHAPTER XIX. I DISCOVER THE SINGER.
+
+CHAPTER XX. A WONDERFUL REVELATION.
+
+CHAPTER XXI. A LITTLE ANCIENT HISTORY.
+
+CHAPTER XXII. AGAIN THE MOON.
+
+CHAPTER XXIII. WE SEARCH FOR MONA.
+
+CHAPTER XXIV. THE PICTURE TELEGRAPH.
+
+CHAPTER XXV. AN UNSATISFACTORY LOVER.
+
+CHAPTER XXVI. AN ENVIABLE CONDITION.
+
+CHAPTER XXVII. THE CHILDREN’S DAY.
+
+CHAPTER XXVIII. BUSINESS ETHICS.
+
+CHAPTER XXIX. THE INDUSTRIAL PROBLEM.
+
+CHAPTER XXX. ATTEMPTS TO SOLVE THE PROBLEM.
+
+CHAPTER XXXI. WINE-DRINKING IN MARS.
+
+CHAPTER XXXII. A GENUINE ACCIDENT.
+
+CHAPTER XXXIII. THE EMANCIPATION OF WOMAN.
+
+CHAPTER XXXIV. THE EMANCIPATION OF MAN.
+
+CHAPTER XXXV. AN EXALTED THEME.
+
+CHAPTER XXXVI. VANQUISHED AGAIN BY A VOICE.
+
+CHAPTER XXXVII. UNTIL THE DAY BREAK.
+
+CHAPTER XXXVIII. AND THE SHADOWS FLEE AWAY.
+
+CHAPTER XXXIX. A SUDDEN RETURN TO THE EARTH.
+
+POSTSCRIPT.
+
+
+
+
+DAYBREAK:
+
+A ROMANCE OF AN OLD WORLD
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER I.
+
+AN ASTRONOMER ROYAL.
+
+
+It was an evening in early autumn in the last year of the nineteenth
+century. We were nearing the close of a voyage as calm and peaceful as
+our previous lives.
+
+Margaret had been in Europe a couple of years and I had just been over
+to bring her home, and we were now expecting to reach New York in a day
+or two.
+
+Margaret and I were the best of friends. Indeed, we had loved each other
+from our earliest recollection. No formal words of betrothal had ever
+passed between us, but for years we had spoken of our future marriage as
+naturally as if we were the most regularly engaged couple in the world.
+
+“Walter,” asked Margaret in her impulsive way, “at what temperature does
+mercury melt?”
+
+“Well, to hazard a guess,” I replied, “I should say about one degree
+above its freezing point. Why, do you think of making an experiment?”
+
+“Yes, on you. And I am going to begin by being very frank with you. You
+have made me a number of hurried visits during my stay in Europe, but we
+have seen more of each other in the course of this voyage than for two
+long years. I trust you will not be offended when I say I hoped to find
+you changed. I have never spoken to you about this, even in my letters,
+and it is only because I am a little older now, and because my love for
+you has increased with every day of life, that I have the courage to
+frame these words.”
+
+“Do tell me what it is,” I exclaimed, thoroughly alarmed at her serious
+manner. “Let me know how I have disappointed you and I will make what
+amends I can. Tell me the nature of the change you have been looking for
+and I will begin the transformation at once, before my character becomes
+fixed.”
+
+“Alas! and if it should be already fixed,” she replied, without a smile.
+“Perhaps it is unreasonable in me to expect it in you as a man, when you
+had so little of it as a boy; but I used to think it was only shyness
+then, and always hoped you would outgrow that and gradually become an
+ideal lover. You have such a multitude of other perfections, however,
+that it may be nature has denied you this so that I may be reminded that
+you are human. If the choice had been left with me I think I should
+have preferred to leave out some other quality in the make-up of your
+character, good as they all are.”
+
+“What bitter pill is this,” I asked, “that you are sugar-coating to such
+an extent? Don’t you see that I am aching to begin the improvement in my
+manners, as soon as you point out the direction?”
+
+“You must know what I mean from my first abrupt question,” she answered.
+“To make an extreme comparison, frozen mercury is warm beside you,
+Walter. If you are really to be loyal knight of mine I must send you on
+a quest for your heart.”
+
+“Ah, I supposed it was understood that I had given it to you.”
+
+“I have never seen it,” she continued, “and you have never before said
+as much as is contained in those last words. Here we are, talking of
+many things we shall do after we are married, and yet you have nothing
+to say of all that wonderful and beautiful world of romance that ought
+to come before marriage. Is this voyage to come to an end and mean no
+more to us than to these hundreds of passengers around us, who seem only
+intent to get back to their work at the earliest possible moment? And is
+our wedding day to approach and pass and be looked upon merely as part
+of the necessary and becoming business of our lives? In short, am I
+never to hear a real love note?”
+
+“Margaret, I have a sister. You know something of the depth of my
+affection for her. When I meet her in New York to-morrow or next day,
+if I should throw my arms around her neck and exclaim, in impassioned
+tones, ‘My sister, I love you,’ what would she think of me?”
+
+“She would think you had left your senses on the other side,” replied
+Margaret, laughing. “But I decline to accept the parallel. I have not
+given up my heart to your keeping these many years to be only a sister
+to you at last.”
+
+“But my mother! Is it possible for me to love you more than my mother
+loved me? And yet I never heard her speak one word on the subject, and,
+now that I think of it, I am not sure but words would have cheapened her
+affection in my mind. You do not doubt me, Margaret?”
+
+“No more than you doubted your mother, although she never told her
+love. No, it is not so serious as that; but I wish you were more
+demonstrative, Walter.”
+
+“What, in words? Isn’t there something that speaks louder than words?”
+
+“Yes, but let us hear the words, too. There is a beautiful proverb in
+India which says, ‘Words are the daughters of earth and deeds are the
+sons of heaven.’ That is true, but let us not try to pass through life
+without enjoying the company of some of the ‘daughters of earth.’”
+
+“I will confess this much, Margaret, that your words are one of your
+principal charms.”
+
+“Oh, do you really think so? I consider that a great compliment from
+you, for I have often tried to repress myself, fearing that my impulsive
+and sometimes passionate speech would offend your taste, you who are
+outwardly so cold. Do you know, I have a whole vocabulary of endearing
+terms ready to be poured into your ears as soon as you begin to give me
+encouragement?”
+
+“Then teach me how to encourage you, and I will certainly begin at once.
+Shall we seek some retired spot, where we can be free from observation,
+and then shall I seize your hand, fall on my knees, and, in vehement and
+extravagant words, declare a passion which you already know I have, just
+as well as you know I am breathing at this moment?”
+
+“Good!” cried Margaret. “That’s almost as fine as the real scene. So you
+have a passion for me. I really think you are improving.”
+
+Before going on with this conversation, let me tell you a little more
+about Margaret and my relations to her.
+
+There was good cause for her complaint. I was at that time a sort
+of animated icicle, as far as my emotional nature was concerned. But
+although I could not express my feelings to Margaret in set phrase, I do
+not mind saying to you that I loved her dearly, or thought I did, which
+was the same thing for the time being. I loved her as well as I was
+capable of loving anybody. What I lacked Margaret more than made up, for
+she was the warmest-hearted creature in all the world. If I should begin
+to enumerate her perfections of person and character I should never care
+to stop.
+
+Her educational advantages had been far above the average, and she had
+improved them in a manner to gratify her friends and create for herself
+abundant mental resources. She had taken the full classical course at
+Harvard, carrying off several of the high prizes, had then enjoyed two
+years of post-graduate work at Clark, and finally spent two more years
+in foreign travel and study. As has been intimated, I had been over for
+her, and we were now on our way home, expecting to land on the morrow or
+the day after.
+
+If you imagine that Margaret had lost anything by her education or
+was less fitted to make a good home, it is because you never knew
+her. Instead of being stunted in her growth, broken in constitution,
+round-shouldered, pale-faced and weak-eyed, the development of her body
+had kept pace with the expansion of her mind, and she was now in the
+perfect flower of young womanhood, with body and soul both of generous
+mold. Her marvelous beauty had been refined and heightened by her
+intellectual culture, and even her manners, so charming before, were
+now more than ever the chaste and well-ordered adornments of a noble
+character. She was as vivacious and sparkling as if she had never
+known the restraints of school, but without extravagance of any kind to
+detract from her self-poise. In short, she was a symphony, a grand and
+harmonious composition, and still human enough to love a mortal like me.
+Such was the woman who was trying to instill into my wooing a little of
+the warmth and sympathy of her delightful nature. As for myself, it will
+be necessary to mention only a single characteristic. I had a remarkably
+good ear, as we say. Not only was my sense of hearing unusually acute,
+but I had an almost abnormal appreciation of musical sounds. Although
+without the ability to sing or play and without the habit of application
+necessary to learn these accomplishments, I was, from my earliest years,
+a great lover of music. People who are born without the power of nicely
+discriminating between sounds often say they enjoy music, but these
+excellent people do not begin to understand the intense pleasure with
+which one listens, whose auricular nerves are more highly developed. But
+this rare and soul-stirring enjoyment is many times accompanied, as in
+my case, with acute suffering whenever the tympanum is made to resound
+with the slightest discord. The most painful moments of my life,
+physically speaking, have been those in which I have been forced to
+listen to diabolical noises. A harsh, rasping sound has often given me a
+pang more severe than neuralgia, while even an uncultivated voice or an
+instrument out of tune has jarred on my sensitive nerves for hours.
+
+My musical friends all hated me in their hearts, for my peculiarity made
+me a merciless critic; and the most serious youthful quarrel between
+Margaret and myself arose from the same cause. Nature had given Margaret
+a voice of rare sweetness and a fine musical taste, and her friends
+had encouraged her in singing from her youth. One day, before she had
+received much instruction, she innocently asked me to listen to a song
+she was studying, when I was cruel enough to laugh at her and ridicule
+the idea of her ever learning to sing correctly. This rudeness made such
+an impression on her girlish mind that, although she forgave the offense
+and continued to love the offender, she could never be induced again to
+try her vocal powers before me. All through her school and college days
+she devoted some attention to music, and while I heard from others much
+about her advancement and the extraordinary quality of her voice, she
+always declared she would never sing for me until she was sure she could
+put me to shame for my early indiscretion, so painfully present in her
+memory. This became in time quite a feature of our long courtship, for
+I was constantly trying to have her break her foolish resolution and
+let me hear her. Although unsuccessful, the situation was not without a
+pleasurable interest for me, for I knew it must end some time, and in
+a way, no doubt, to give me great enjoyment, judging from the accounts
+which came to my ears. Margaret, too, was well satisfied to let the
+affair drift along indefinitely, while she anticipated with delight the
+surprise she was preparing for me.
+
+During the years she had just been spending abroad a good share of her
+time had been given to her musical studies, principally vocal culture,
+and in her letters she provokingly quoted, for my consideration, the
+flattering comments of her instructors and other acquaintances. She
+did this as part of my punishment, trying to make me realize how much
+pleasure I was losing. Each time I crossed the ocean to visit her I
+expected she would relent, but I was as often disappointed; and now this
+homeward voyage had almost come to an end, and I had never heard her
+voice in song since she was a child. Open and unreserved as she was by
+nature, in this particular she had schooled herself to be as reticent
+and undemonstrative as she accused me of being.
+
+Our talk on the subject of my shortcomings, that evening on shipboard,
+had not continued much longer before I acknowledged in plain language
+that I knew my fault and was ready to cooperate in any scheme that could
+be suggested to cure it.
+
+“What you need,” said Margaret, “is some violent sensation, some
+extraordinary experience to stir your soul.”
+
+“Yes,” I answered, “my humdrum life, my wealth, which came to me without
+any effort of my own, and the hitherto almost unruffled character of my
+relations with you have all conspired to make me satisfied with an easy
+and rather indolent existence. I realize I need a shaking up. I want
+to forget myself in some novel experience, which shall engross all my
+attention for a time and draw upon my sympathies if I have any.”
+
+“But what can one do in ‘this weak piping time of peace’? There are no
+maidens to be rescued from the enchantments of the wizard, and it is no
+longer the fashion to ride forth with sword and halberd to murder in the
+name of honor all who oppose themselves. No more dark continents wait
+to be explored, neither is there novelty left in searching the ocean’s
+depths nor in sailing the sky above us. Civilized warfare itself, the
+only field remaining where undying fame may be purchased, seems likely
+to lose its hold on men, and soon the arbitrator will everywhere replace
+the commander-in-chief and the noble art of war will degenerate into the
+ignoble lawsuit. So even universal peace may have its drawbacks.”
+
+“That is quite sufficient in that line,” said Margaret. “Now let us come
+down to something practicable.”
+
+“Well, I might bribe the pilot to sink the steamer when we are going up
+the bay, so that I could have the opportunity of saving your life.”
+
+“It would be almost worth the trial if it were not for the other
+people,” she returned. “Such a role would become you immensely.”
+
+“I regret that I cannot accommodate you,” I said. “But I have thought
+of something which would be rather safer for you. How would you like to
+have me fall desperately in love with some pretty girl?”
+
+“Just the thing,” exclaimed Margaret, laughing and clapping her hands,
+“if you can only be sure she will not return your passion.”
+
+“Small chance of that,” I answered. “So you approve the plan, do you?”
+
+“Certainly, if you care to try it. Lady never held knight against his
+will. But have you forgotten that, after the resources of this planet
+are exhausted, as you seem to think they are soon likely to be, you
+and I have other worlds to conquer? Perhaps in that work you may find
+diversion powerful enough to draw you out of yourself and, possibly,
+opportunities for some heart culture.”
+
+I must explain that this was a reference to a plan of life we were
+marking out for ourselves. Margaret was an enthusiast on the subject
+of astronomy. I would include myself in the same remark, only the word
+enthusiast did not fit my temperament at that time. But our tastes
+agreed perfectly in that matter, and we had always read with avidity
+everything we could find on the subject. Margaret, however, was the
+student, and as she had developed great proficiency in mathematics, she
+had decided to make astronomy her profession.
+
+It was understood that I was to perform the easier part of furnishing
+the money for an observatory and instruments of our own, and I was
+determined to keep pace with Margaret in her studies as well as I could
+in an amateurish way, so that she might be able to retain me as an
+assistant. We were to be married at sunrise sharp, on the first day of
+the next century, and to lay the corner-stone of our observatory at
+the exact moment of the summer solstice of the same year. These were
+Margaret’s suggestions, but even I was not averse to letting my friends
+see I had a little sentiment.
+
+That night I dreamed of almost everything we had been talking about, but
+lay awake at intervals, wondering if I could, by force of will, work out
+the reform in my character which Margaret desired. The night passed,
+and it was just as I was rising that a thought flashed upon me which
+I determined to put into execution at the first opportunity. This came
+early the next evening. As we expected to reach our wharf soon, we had
+finished our packing, and were now sitting alone in a retired spot on
+deck on the starboard side. As soon as we were comfortably arranged I
+said to my companion:
+
+“Margaret, as this is the last evening of this voyage, it makes an epoch
+in our lives. Your school days are now over, and henceforth we hope
+to be together. Would not this be a most appropriate time for me to be
+introduced to a voice with which I propose to spend the rest of my life?
+Last night you were anxious to think of something which would arouse my
+dormant heart and draw out in more passionate expression my too obscure
+affections. Your words haunted my sleeping and waking thoughts until
+it fortunately occurred to me that you yourself had the very means for
+accomplishing my reformation. You know how impressionable I am to every
+wave of sound. Who knows but your voice, which I am sure will be the
+sweetest in the world to me, may be the instrument destined to stir
+my drowsy soul, to loose my halting tongue, and even to force my proud
+knees to bend before you? In short, why not adopt my suggestion, break
+your long-kept resolution, and sing for me this moment? Is the possible
+result not worth the trial?” To this long address, which was a great
+effort for me, Margaret answered:
+
+“You surprise me already, Walter. If the mere thought of hearing me sing
+can prompt such a sentimental speech as that, what would the song itself
+do? Perhaps it would drive you to the other extreme, and you would
+become gushing. Just think of that. But, seriously, I am afraid you
+would laugh at my voice and send me back to Germany. When you were
+talking I thought I could detect an undercurrent of fun in your words.”
+
+“I assure you I was never more in earnest in my life, and I am sorry you
+will not sing. Is your answer final?”
+
+“I think I will wait a little longer. We are liable to be disturbed
+here. And now that you have made a start, perhaps you will improve in
+manners becoming a lover without any more help.”
+
+“No, I shall relapse and be worse than ever. Now is your time to help me
+find my heart.”
+
+Without answering, Margaret sprang up impulsively, exclaiming:
+
+“There! I have forgotten that book the professor borrowed. Men never
+return anything. I must go and get it, and put it into my bag. And I had
+better run down and see if auntie wants anything. You stay right here;
+don’t move, and I’ll be back in just three minutes.”
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER II.
+
+A FALLEN SATELLITE.
+
+
+I promised, and then settled myself more comfortably into my steamer
+chair to await Margaret’s return. The three minutes passed, and she did
+not come. Evidently it was hard to find the professor, or perhaps he
+was holding her, against her will, for a discussion of the book. At any
+rate, I could do nothing but sit there, in that easy, half-reclining
+position, and watch the full moon, which had just risen, and was shining
+square in my face, if that could be said of an object that looked so
+round.
+
+I fell into a deep reverie. My mind was filled with contending emotions,
+and such opposing objects as rolling worlds and lovely maidens flitted
+in dim images across my mental vision. I loved the best woman on the
+earth, and I wondered if any of those other globes contained her equal.
+If so, then perhaps some other man was as fortunate as myself. I was
+drowsy, but determined to keep awake and pursue this fancy. I remember
+feeling confident that I could not sleep if I only kept my eyes open,
+and so I said I would keep them fixed on the bright face of the moon.
+But how large it looked. Surely something must be wrong with it, or was
+it my memory that was at fault? I thought the moon generally appeared
+smaller as it rose further above the horizon, but now it was growing
+bigger every minute. It was coming nearer, too. Nearer, larger--why, it
+was monstrous. I could not turn my eyes away now, and everything else
+was forgotten, swallowed up in that one awful sight. How fast it grew.
+Now it fills half the sky and makes me tremble with fear. Part of it is
+still lighted by the sun, and part is in dark, threatening shadow. I
+see pale faces around me. Others are gazing, awe-stricken, at the same
+object. We are in the open street, and some have glasses, peering into
+the deep craters and caverns of the surface.
+
+I seemed to be a new-comer on the scene, and could not help remarking to
+my nearest neighbor:
+
+“This is a strange sight. Do you think it is real, or are we all bereft
+of our senses?”
+
+“Strange indeed, but true,” he answered.
+
+“But what does it mean?” And then, assuming a gayety I did not feel,
+I asked further: “Does the moon, too, want to be annexed to the United
+States?”
+
+“You speak lightly, young man,” my neighbor said, “and do not appear to
+realize the seriousness of our situation. Where have you been, that you
+have not heard this matter discussed, and do not understand that the
+moon is certain to come into collision with the earth in a very short
+time?”
+
+He seemed thoroughly alarmed, and I soon found that all the people
+shared his feeling. The movement of the earth carried us out of sight
+of the moon in a few hours, but after a brief rest everybody was on the
+watch again at the next revolution. The excitement over the behavior of
+our once despised moon increased rapidly from this time. Nothing else
+was talked of, business was well-nigh suspended, and the newspapers
+neglected everything else to tell about the unparalleled natural
+phenomenon. Speculation was rife as to what would be the end, and what
+effect would follow a union of the earth with its satellite.
+
+While this discussion was going on, the unwelcome visitor was
+approaching with noticeable rapidity at every revolution of the earth,
+and the immense dark shadow which it now made, as it passed beneath the
+sun, seemed ominous of an ill fate to our world and its inhabitants. It
+was a time to try the stoutest hearts, and, of course, the multitude of
+the people were overwhelmed with alarm. As no one could do anything to
+ward off what seemed a certain catastrophe, the situation was all the
+more dreadful. Men could only watch the monster, speculate as to the
+result, and wait, with horrible suspense, for the inevitable. The circle
+of revolution was now becoming so small that the crisis was hourly
+expected. Men everywhere left their houses and sought the shelterless
+fields, and it was well they did so, for there came a day when the earth
+received a sudden and awful shock. After it had passed, people looked
+at each other wonderingly to find themselves alive, and began
+congratulating each other, thinking the worst was over. But the dreadful
+anxiety returned when, after some hours, the moon again appeared, a
+little tardy this time, but nearer and more threatening than ever. The
+news was afterwards brought that it had struck the high mountain peaks
+of Central Asia, tearing down their sides with the power of a thousand
+glaciers and filling the valleys below with ruin.
+
+It was now felt that the end must soon come, and this was true, for at
+the earth’s very next revolution the tired and feeble satellite, once
+the queen of the sky and the poet’s glory, scraped across the continent
+of South America, received the death blow in collision with the Andes,
+careened, and fell at last into the South Pacific Ocean. The shock given
+to the earth was tremendous, but no other result was manifest except
+that the huge mass displaced water enough to submerge many islands and
+to reconstruct the shore lines of every continent. There was untold loss
+of life and property, of course, but it is astonishing how easily those
+who were left alive accepted the new state of things, when it was found
+that the staid earth, in spite of the enormous wart on her side, was
+making her daily revolution almost with her accustomed regularity.
+
+The lovers of science, however, were by no means indifferent to
+the new-comer. To be able at last to solve all the problems of the
+constitution and geography of the moon was enough to fill them with the
+greatest enthusiasm. But, while thousands were ready to investigate
+the mysterious visitor, one great difficulty stood in the way of all
+progress. It seemed impossible to get a foothold on the surface. The
+great globe rose from the waves on all sides at such an angle on account
+of its shape that a lodgment could not easily be made. Ships sailed
+under the overhanging sides, and in a calm sea they would send out their
+boats, which approached near enough to secure huge specimens. These were
+broken into fragments and were soon sold on the streets of every city.
+
+The first to really set foot on the dead satellite were some adventurous
+advertisers, who shot an arrow and cord over a projecting crag, pulled a
+rope after it, and finally drew themselves up, and soon the lunar cliffs
+were put to some practical use, blazoning forth a few staring words.
+These men could not go beyond their narrow standing place, for the
+general curve of the surface, although broken up by many irregularities,
+presented no opportunities for the most skillful climbing.
+
+But it was impossible that, with the moon so near, the problem of
+reaching it could long remain unsolved. Dr. Schwartz, an eminent
+scientist, was the first to suggest that it must be approached in a
+balloon, and at the same time he announced that he would be one of two
+men, if another could be found, to undertake to effect a landing in that
+way. Here, I saw, was my opportunity. I had often dreamed of visiting
+the moon and other heavenly bodies, and now here was a chance to go
+in reality. I had some acquaintance with Dr. Schwartz, and my prompt
+application for the vacant place in the proposed expedition was
+successful. The doctor kindly wrote me that my enthusiasm in the cause
+was just what he was looking for, and he was sure I would prove a plucky
+and reliable companion. The matter attracted so much attention that the
+United States Government, moved to action by the public nature of
+the enterprise, took it up and offered to bear all the expense of
+the equipment and carrying out of the expedition. Encouraged by this
+assistance, the doctor began his plans at once. All recognized that one
+great object was to settle the question as to the existence of life on
+the other side of the moon; for, in spite of its rude collisions with
+mountains and continents before it rested as near the heart of the earth
+as it could get, it had insisted, with an almost knowing perversity, in
+keeping its old, familiar face next to us. To solve this problem might
+take much time, and so we determined to go so well prepared that, if we
+once reached the upper surface of the moon, we could stay as long as our
+errand demanded.
+
+It was decided to make the ascent from a town near the coast of the
+southern part of Chile, and thither we went with our balloon, some
+scientific apparatus, and a large quantity of dried provisions. We
+took with us also papers from the State Department showing that we were
+accredited agents from our Government to the inhabitants of the moon, if
+we should find any. Our arrangements were speedily made, and on a still,
+bright morning we bade adieu to our friends who had accompanied us thus
+far, mounted our car, and set sail.
+
+We left the earth with light hearts, excited with the novel and
+interesting character of the enterprise, and but little realizing its
+difficulty and danger. Ordinary balloon journeys had become frequent,
+and the evolution of the air ship had almost passed beyond the
+experimental stage, but nothing like our present undertaking had ever
+been attempted.
+
+Our starting place was far enough from the resting point of the moon
+to enable us to clear the rounded side, but in order to reach the
+equatorial line of the fallen globe we would be obliged to ascend over a
+thousand miles.
+
+The fact that we were not appalled by the mere thought of rising to such
+a height shows how thoroughly we were carried away with the excitement.
+But we were better prepared for a lofty flight than might be supposed.
+For among the recent wonders of science had been the invention of an
+air-condensing machine, by which the rarefied atmosphere of the upper
+regions could be converted into good food for the lungs. These machines
+had been successfully tested more than once by voyagers of the air, but
+the present occasion promised to give them a much more severe trial than
+they had yet received. And, indeed, it is impossible to imagine how
+we could have survived without them. Another important aid to science
+rendered by this air-condensing apparatus is that in the process of
+condensation water is produced in sufficient quantities to drink. Our
+little car was tightly inclosed, and we took enough surplus gas with us
+to keep it comfortably warm. So, with plenty of food, air, water, and
+fuel, we were pretty well prepared for a long journey.
+
+Our instruments, placed just outside the glass sides of the car, told
+us how fast we were rising and what height we had reached from time
+to time, and as we left the denser atmosphere of the earth we were
+gratified to find that we continued to rise rapidly. On one side of
+us we could see the rugged surface of the moon, now, on account of its
+rounded form, drawing nearer to us every hour as we approached the point
+where we hoped to land. We thought it best to try to pass the center and
+land, if possible, somewhere on the upper hemisphere, which was the
+part of the monstrous object that we wanted to investigate. But when
+at length we thought we were about to fly past the moon’s equator
+successfully, an unexpected thing happened.
+
+If we suppose the moon was resting, at the bottom of the ocean, on one
+of its poles, we were going toward the equatorial line, and we thought
+we should not be able to retain a foothold anywhere below that line
+certainly. But now, what was our surprise to find ourselves under some
+mysterious influence. Our balloon refused to obey us as heretofore, and
+in spite of rudder and sail we were drifting about, and appeared to be
+going toward the moon’s surface sooner than we had intended.
+
+In scientific emergencies I deferred to my companion, and now asked
+for an explanation of this erratic behavior of our balloon. Instead of
+replying at once, the doctor stooped and cut a fine wire, which released
+one of the sand bags suspended for ballast from the bottom of our car,
+and told me to watch it. We both watched it, and instead of starting
+with rapidity for the center of the earth, as all well-conducted sand
+bags have done from the beginning of the world, it seemed to hesitate
+and float around a minute, as though it were no more than a handful of
+feathers. And then, slowly at first, but soon more and more swiftly,
+forgetting its birthplace and its old mother earth, it fell unblushingly
+toward the moon.
+
+Intent on watching the fickle sand bag, we did not at first notice that
+our whole conveyance was practicing the same unhandsome maneuver. But
+we soon became aware that we had changed allegiance also. We had started
+with the earth at our feet and the moon looming up on one side of us,
+but here we were now riding with the moon under us and the earth away
+off at our side.
+
+My fellow in this strange experience now found his voice.
+
+“You doubtless realize,” said he, “what has taken place. We are now so
+far from the earth that its attraction is very weak and the nearer mass
+of the moon is drawing us.”
+
+“That is quite evident,” I said, “but you seem as unconcerned about it
+as if such a trip as this were an everyday affair with you.”
+
+“I am not at all indifferent to the wonderful character of this
+journey,” he replied, “but its scientific value swallows up all personal
+considerations.”
+
+I believed this to be true, and I will say right here that in all our
+future experiences the doctor showed the same indifference to everything
+like fear, and seemed content to go to any length in the interest of
+science.
+
+We were now able to govern our movements by the ordinary methods of
+ballooning, and after sailing over the surface of the moon a few hours,
+studying its rugged outlines, we began to think of selecting a place
+for landing. There was no water to be seen and no forests nor other
+vegetation, but everywhere were huge mountains and deep valleys, all as
+bare and uninviting as it is possible to imagine.
+
+But it would not do to turn a cold shoulder to her now, and so we
+descended gracefully to make her close acquaintance, cast out our
+anchor, and were soon on the moon in reality.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER III.
+
+TWO MEN IN THE MOON.
+
+
+“Well, Doctor,” said I, as soon as our feet touched the ground, “the
+moon is inhabited now if never before.”
+
+“Yes, yes,” he answered, “and I am glad to find the inhabitants are of
+such a lively disposition.”
+
+“Oh, who can help being light-hearted,” I rejoined, “when one’s body is
+so light?”
+
+For as soon as we left our car we began to have the queerest sensations
+of lightness. We felt as if we were standing on springs, which the least
+motion would set off and up we would go toward the sky. Everything we
+handled had but a small fraction of the weight it would possess on the
+earth, and our great air-condensing machines we carried about with ease.
+But however high we might jump we always returned to the ground, and
+whether we were on top of the moon or on the bottom of it, it was pretty
+certain that we could not fall off, any more than we could have fallen
+off the earth before we voluntarily but so rashly left it.
+
+My exhilaration of spirit did not last, for I could not help thinking of
+our condition. The law of gravitation surely held us, although with less
+force than we had been accustomed to, on account of the smaller size of
+the moon; and how were we to get away from it?
+
+I again appealed to my companion.
+
+“I do not like the idea of spending the rest of our lives on the moon,
+Doctor, but can you tell me how we are to prevent it? Can we ever get
+back within the earth’s attraction again?”
+
+“I have been pondering the subject myself,” he replied, “and I think I
+can give you some hope of seeing home once more. If our old measurements
+of the moon are correct, and if we are, as I suppose, somewhere near
+the equator, we must be about fifteen hundred miles from the earth,
+following the curve of the moon’s surface. Now, after we have finished
+our investigations here, we can start for home on foot. We can cover a
+good many miles a day, since walking can be no burden here, and we can
+easily tow our balloon along. As we approach the earth, my impression
+is that we shall become more and more light-footed, for we shall be
+gradually getting back to the earth’s attraction. Somewhere between this
+point and our planet there must be a spot where the attraction of both
+bodies will be equal, and we can stay on the moon or drop off and return
+to the earth in our balloon as we please.”
+
+“What a curious idea,” I answered; “and yet, considering the strange
+behavior of our sand bag, I don’t know but you are right. And I have
+only one suggestion to make; that is, that we start earthward at once
+and try the experiment. Let the investigations go. If there are any
+inhabitants here they will never miss us, since we haven’t made their
+acquaintance yet. Science or no science, I object to remaining any
+longer than necessary in this uncertainty in regard to our future.
+You know very well we couldn’t live long in this temperature and with
+nothing for our lungs but what comes through these horrid machines. And
+what good would come of our discoveries if we are never to get back to
+the earth again? I profess to have as much courage left as the ordinary
+mortal would have, but in the present circumstances I believe no one
+would blame us for wanting to settle this question at once.”
+
+“It would seem a trifle ridiculous,” said the doctor in reply to this
+harangue, “for us to return to our planet without any further effort
+to accomplish our errand. But I will not deny that I share something of
+your feeling, and I will start with you right away, on condition that
+you will return here if we find that I am correct in believing we can
+leave the moon at our pleasure.”
+
+“Agreed,” I cried, and we were soon on our way.
+
+So far we had been exposed to the sun and were almost scorched by the
+intensity of its rays. We had never experienced anything like such heat
+and would not have supposed the human body could endure it. But now,
+soon after we had started to find the place where the moon would let
+go of us, the sun set and, with scarcely a minute’s warning, we were
+plunged into darkness and cold. The darkness was relieved by the
+exceedingly brilliant appearance of the stars, the sky fairly blazing
+with them, but the cold was almost unendurable even for the few moments
+in which we were exposed to it. We secured our car as speedily as
+possible, climbed into it, and got a little warmth from our gas heater.
+
+These extremes of temperature convinced us that no life such as we were
+acquainted with could exist a great while on the moon.
+
+We found we could make no progress at all by night. We could only shut
+ourselves up and wait for the sun to come. In trying to keep warm we
+would work our air-condensers harder than usual, and the water thus
+produced we would freeze in little cakes, and have them to help mitigate
+the burning heat a short time the next day.
+
+The country through which we were traveling was made up of bold mountain
+peaks and deep ravines. There was no sign of vegetation and not even
+the soil for it to grow in, but everywhere only hard, metallic rock that
+showed unmistakably the action of fire.
+
+And so it was with the greatest difficulty that we made our way
+earthward, although there was so little effort needed in walking. As I
+pondered the doctor’s idea, it seemed to me more and more that he
+must be right. We were certainly held to the moon where we were by
+gravitation. It was just as true that near the surface of the earth its
+superior attraction would draw all objects to itself. Accordingly, if
+we kept on our way, why should we not in time come to a place where we
+could throw ourselves once more under the influence of the old earth,
+now becoming very dear to us?
+
+Thinking chiefly of this subject and talking of it every day, we labored
+on, and finally were wonderfully encouraged with the belief that we were
+actually walking easier and everything was becoming lighter. Soon this
+belief became a certainty, and, since leaping was no effort, we leaped
+with joy and hope.
+
+And now how shall I describe our sensations as we went bounding along,
+hardly touching the ground, until we finally came to the place where it
+was not necessary to touch the ground at all? Now we knew that by going
+only a little further we should be able to mount our car and set sail
+for the earth again. But with this knowledge we lost at once much of
+our desire, and thought we would not hasten our departure. Here we were,
+absolutely floating in the air, and it maybe believed that the feeling
+was as delicious as it was unique. Using our hands as fins we could with
+the slightest effort sail around at pleasure, resting in any position we
+chose to take, truly a most luxurious experience.
+
+“How shall we make our friends believe all this when we try to tell them
+about it, Doctor?” said I.
+
+“The best way to make them believe it,” he replied, “is to bring them
+up here and let them try it for themselves. I propose to organize an
+expedition on our return and bring up a large party. We could manage to
+land somewhere in this vicinity, I think, instead of going up as far as
+you and I did. What a place this would be for summer vacations! The moon
+is a fixture now; it cannot get away. I am sure of that, for the law of
+gravitation will never release it. So we may as well make what use of
+it we can, and these delightful sensations will no doubt form the
+most important discovery that we shall ever make on this dried-up and
+worn-out satellite. You know many people are willing to put themselves
+to much inconvenience and to undergo many hardships for the sake of a
+change from the monotony of home life. If we can induce them to come
+up here for a few weeks, and if they can endure this rather erratic
+climate, they will find change enough to break up the monotony for one
+year, I think.”
+
+After enjoying this rare exercise to our content, we began preparing
+for the night which was now coming on. The doctor had reminded me of my
+promise to return to our former position on the moon, and we agreed to
+set out the next day. Having fastened our car securely to the ground,
+so that we might not drift off toward the earth, we entered it and made
+ourselves as comfortable as possible.
+
+Our resting place was near the center of what seemed to be an immense
+crater, and some time before morning we were roused by a violent shaking
+of the ground beneath us, which startled us beyond expression.
+
+“What’s that?” I exclaimed.
+
+“That feels very much like a moon-quake,” replied my companion.
+
+I was terribly frightened, but resolved to follow the doctor’s example
+and make light of what we could not help.
+
+So I said:
+
+“But I thought the lunar volcanoes were all dead ages ago. I hope we
+haven’t camped in the crater of one that is likely to go off again.”
+
+“My opinion is,” answered the doctor, “that there is still water inside
+the moon which is gradually freezing. That operation would sometimes
+crack the surface, and this has probably caused the quaking that we have
+felt.”
+
+While we were talking the wind began to blow, and soon, although it was
+long before time for the sun to rise, we suddenly emerged from darkness
+into bright sunlight. We sprang up instinctively to look about us and
+try to discover what this could mean, when what was our consternation to
+find ourselves adrift!
+
+There, in full view of our wondering eyes, was the whole, round earth,
+hanging in space, and where were we? Then we began to realize gradually
+that the trembling of the ground was the grating of the moon against
+the earth as it left its resting place, and the wind was caused by our
+motion.
+
+The novelty of the situation took away for a time the sense of fear, and
+I exclaimed:
+
+“Another scientific certainty gone to smash! I thought you said the moon
+could never get away from the earth. What are we going to do now?”
+
+“Well,” replied the doctor, “this is certainly something I never dreamed
+of in my philosophy. I didn’t see how the moon could be drawn away from
+the earth when once actually attached to it, but I suppose the sun
+and planets all happen to be pulling in one direction just now and are
+proving too much for the earth’s attraction. But what concerns us more
+at this time is covered by your question, ‘What are we going to do now?’
+And I will answer that I think we will stick to the moon for a while.
+You can see for yourself that we are held here much more firmly than
+when we were disporting ourselves in the air yesterday, and the earth
+is now too far away for us to throw ourselves and our balloon within its
+attraction.”
+
+I knew by the feeling of increasing weight that what my companion said
+must be true, but we could not then appreciate the dreadful nature
+of our condition, so wrapped up were we in the grandeur of the object
+before our eyes. To those who have never been on the moon in such
+circumstances it will be impossible to adequately describe our feelings
+as we gazed upon our late home and knew that we were fast drifting away
+from it.
+
+There the round globe hung, as I had often pictured it in my
+imagination--oceans and continents, mountains, lakes, and rivers, all
+spread out before us--the greatest object lesson ever seen by the eye
+of man. As we studied it, recognizing feature after feature, lands
+and waters that we knew by their familiar shape, the doctor broke our
+reverie with these words, evidently with the endeavor to keep up my
+spirits:
+
+“That looks as natural as a map, doesn’t it? You have seen globes with
+those divisions pictured on them, but there is the globe itself. If
+our summer tourists could take in this experience also, it would make a
+vacation worth having. Isn’t it grand? I see you are thinking about our
+personal peril, but I think I know men who would take the risk and put
+themselves in our place for the sake of this magnificent view.”
+
+“If you know of any way to send for one of those friends, I wish you
+would do so,” I replied. “I would willingly give him my place.”
+
+It may be believed that we were all this time anxiously watching
+the earth, and it did not lessen our anxiety to realize that we were
+traveling very rapidly away from it. I had reached a point now where I
+did not place much dependence upon the doctor’s science, but to get some
+expression of his thoughts I said to him:
+
+“Well, have you any opinion about our fate? Are we doomed to pass the
+remainder of our lives circling around our dear old earth, looking upon
+her face day by day but never to approach her again?”
+
+“I think you have stated the case about as it is,” said he, “if,
+indeed, this rate of speed does not carry us entirely beyond the earth’s
+attraction, out into illimitable space.”
+
+The thought of such an additional catastrophe silenced me, especially
+as I could not deny its possibility. Life on the moon, if we could only
+keep the earth in sight even, seemed almost endurable now, beside the
+idea that we might be cast out to shift for ourselves, without a
+tie save such as the universal law of gravitation might find for us
+somewhere.
+
+It must not be imagined that our conversation was carried on with ease
+or that we were half enjoying our novel situation. We were simply trying
+to make the best of a very bad matter. Not long after we had started the
+wind had taken away the balloon part of our air ship, and now threatened
+every moment to tear the car from its moorings and end our unhappy
+career at once. Besides this impending catastrophe, it was with the
+greatest difficulty that we could get air enough to fill our lungs, but
+the cold was so intense whenever our side of the moon was turned away
+from the sun that we needed the severe labor on our condensers to keep
+us from freezing.
+
+Meantime, our speed increasing every hour, the planet that had once been
+our home was growing smaller before our eyes. At length we were flying
+through space at such a rate that we could not suppress our fears that
+the terrible suggestion of the doctor’s would be realized. We had both
+made a mental calculation as to how large the earth ought to look from
+the moon at its normal distance, and as it approached that size we could
+not hide our anxiety from each other. Without a word from the doctor I
+could see by his face that hope was fast leaving him, and as we were now
+going more rapidly than ever I felt that we had nothing to do but accept
+our fate.
+
+In regard to such intensity of feeling at this stage of our experience,
+it maybe objected that our condition was hopeless anyway, and it could
+make no difference whether we remained within the earth’s influence
+or not. But in spite of our desperate situation we had some sentiment
+remaining. The earth was the only home we had ever known, and I am not
+ashamed to say that we did not like to lose sight of it; especially
+as there was not the slightest possibility that we should ever see it
+again, unless, indeed, our moon should turn into a comet with eccentric
+orbit, and so bring us back at some future day--a very unlikely
+occurrence, as all will admit who know anything about moons and comets.
+
+Our speed did not lessen but rather increased as we gradually broke away
+from the earth’s attraction, and the dear old earth was fast becoming
+a less significant object in our sky. If our situation was lonesome
+before, it was now desolation itself.
+
+“Doctor,” said I, when I could control my emotions enough to speak,
+“where now?”
+
+“Well,” he replied, with a grim attempt at a smile, “my opinion is not
+worth much in our present strange circumstances, but it seems to me we
+are on our way either to the sun or one of the large planets.”
+
+I did not reply, and we both soon found it wise to expend no unnecessary
+breath in talking. The ether was now so thin that it took oceans of it,
+literally, to make enough air to keep us alive.
+
+Our provisions were nearly exhausted, our strength was failing, and
+I really believe we would not have lived many days had not something
+occurred to divert our minds and to relieve some of our physical
+discomforts.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IV.
+
+AND ONE WOMAN.
+
+
+At the time we tied our car to the rocks, to prevent us from drifting
+away from the earth, we did not anticipate that the fastenings would
+receive any very severe strain, but now the velocity of the wind was
+such that there was great danger of our breaking away. The moon was not
+a very hospitable place, to be sure, as we had thus far found it, but
+still we preferred it to the alternative of flying off into space in our
+glass car and becoming a new species of meteor.
+
+And yet it seemed to be courting instant death to attempt to leave the
+car and seek for other shelter. We could not decide which course to
+take. Both were so full of peril that there seemed to be no possible
+safety in either.
+
+As I review our situation now, and think of us spinning along on that
+defunct world we knew not whither, with no ray of light to illumine the
+darkness of our future or show us the least chance of escape from our
+desperate plight, it is astonishing to me that we did not give up all
+hope and lie down and die at once. It only shows what the human body
+can endure and of what stuff our minds are made. I think it would not be
+making a rash statement to say that no man ever found himself in a worse
+situation and survived.
+
+But help was nearer than we supposed. From what we had seen of the
+moon we could not have imagined a more unexpected thing than that
+which happened to us then. Suddenly, above the roar of the wind and the
+thumping of our car on the rocks, even above the tumult of our spirits,
+there came to us the strains of more than earthly music. Whether it was
+from voice or instrument we could not tell, and in its sweetness and
+power it was absolutely indescribable. At first we did not try to
+discover its source but were content to sit and quietly enjoy it, as it
+fell gently upon us, pervading our whole being and so filling us with
+courage and strength that we seemed to be transformed into new men.
+
+Then, wondering if we could discover from whence the notes came, we
+turned and looked about us, when there was revealed to us a vision of
+beauty which filled and satisfied the sense of sight as completely as
+our ears had been enchanted with the angelic music.
+
+Not far from our car, with her flowing garments nearly torn from her in
+the fierceness of the gale, was a young girl, stretching out her hands
+imploringly toward us and pouring forth her voice in that exquisite
+song. We soon discovered it was not for herself that she was anxious,
+but for us; for when she observed that she had attracted our attention
+she smiled and turned to go back the way she had come, beckoning us
+with hand and eye to follow her, and still singing her sweet but
+unintelligible words. Perhaps I flattered myself, but I thought she
+was looking at me more than at my companion, and I began with great
+eagerness to unfasten the door of the car.
+
+“Wait!” cried the doctor. “Where are you going?”
+
+I could not stop an instant, but answered with feeling:
+
+“Going? I am going wherever she is going. I’ll follow her to the end of
+the moon if necessary, though the surface be everywhere as bleak as our
+own north pole.”
+
+“Well,” he replied, “if it is such a desperate case as that, I’ll have
+to go along to take care of you.”
+
+I found that when such a woman beckons and such a voice calls there is
+but one thing to do. The sirens were not to be mentioned in comparison.
+Twenty thousand hurricanes could not have prevented me from attempting
+to follow where she led as long as I had breath.
+
+We reached the ground in safety, and with the greatest difficulty made
+our way in the footsteps of our guide, leaving all our possessions
+behind us, to the doctor’s murmured regret. And now the words of
+the singer seemed to take on a joyous meaning, and we could almost
+distinguish her invitation to follow her to a place where the wind did
+not blow and where our present troubles would be over. She kept well in
+the lead but walked only as fast as our strength would allow, looking
+back constantly to encourage us with her smile and ravishing one heart
+at least with the melody of her song.
+
+Presently we came to the edge of an immense crater, hundreds of feet
+deep and as empty and cold as all the others we had seen on the moon.
+Instead of going around this, our leader chose a narrow ravine and took
+us down the steep side to the bottom of the crater. We supposed she did
+this just to give us protection from the wind, and we were very much
+sheltered, but she did not stop here. Entering one of the many fissures
+in the rocks, she led us into a narrow passage whose floor descended
+so rapidly and whose solid roof shut out the light so quickly that in
+ordinary circumstances we would have hesitated about proceeding.
+But, although it was soon absolutely dark, we kept on, guided by that
+marvelous voice, now our sole inspiration.
+
+“Come, come, fear no harm,” it seemed to say, and we were content to
+follow blindly, even the doctor no longer objecting.
+
+[Illustration: “POURING FORTH HER VOICE IN THAT EXQUISITE SONG.”]
+
+How many hours we proceeded in this way, going down, down, all the
+time, toward the center of the globe, I have no means of telling; but I
+distinctly remember that we began, after a time, to find, to our great
+joy, that the air was becoming denser and we could breathe quite freely.
+This gave us needed strength and justified the faith with which our
+mysterious deliverer had filled us.
+
+At length we were gladdened by a glimmer of light ahead of us, which
+increased until our path was all illumined with a beautiful soft haze.
+Soon the way broadened and grew still brighter, and then we were led
+forth into an open street, which seemed to be part of a small village.
+There were but few houses, and even these, although they showed signs
+of a former grandeur, were sadly in need of care. Not a creature of any
+kind was stirring, and in our hasty review the whole place looked as
+if it might have been deserted by its inhabitants for a hundred years.
+There was one spot, however, so retired as to be entirely hidden from
+our view at first, which had anything but a deserted appearance. The
+house was small, but it was a perfect bower of beauty, half-concealed
+with a mass of flowers and vines. Here our journey ended, for our guide
+led us to the door and, entering, turned and invited us to follow her.
+
+The doctor and I were tired enough to accept with eagerness her
+hospitality, and soon we were all seated in a pleasant room, which was
+filled with the evidences of a refined taste. Now we had a much better
+opportunity to observe the resplendent beauty of our new friend, and we
+found, also, that her manners were as captivating as her other personal
+qualities. At intervals, all through our long walk, her song had ceased
+and we expected she would make some attempt to speak to us; but being
+disappointed in this, it struck me after we had entered the house that
+I ought to end the embarrassment by addressing her. The circumstances
+of our meeting were peculiar, to say the least, and, of all the thousand
+things I might have appropriately said, nothing could have been more
+meaningless or have better shown the vacant condition of my mind than
+the words I chose.
+
+“It’s a fine day,” I said, looking square in her eyes and trying to
+speak pleasantly.
+
+In answer she gave me a smile which almost deprived me of what little
+wit remained, and at the same time emitted one exquisite note.
+
+I was now at the end of my resources. I had always thought I could talk
+on ordinary topics as well as the average man, but in the presence of
+this girl, with everything in the world unsaid, I could not think of one
+word to say. The doctor soon saw my predicament and hastened to
+assist me, and the remark which he selected shows again his wonderful
+self-possession in the midst of overwhelming difficulties. He waved his
+hand gently toward me to attract her attention and said:
+
+“My friend and I are from the United States and have come to make you a
+visit. This is your home, I suppose, away down here in the middle of the
+moon? It is very kind of you to bring us here. I hope you will excuse me
+for my rudeness, but what time do you have supper?”
+
+This time three little notes of the same quality as before and then
+a little trill, and the whole accompanied by a smile so sweet that I
+suddenly began to wish the doctor had been blown off the top of the
+moon. It was a wicked thought and I put it away from me as quickly
+as possible, being assisted by the recollection that the doctor had a
+charming wife already, who was no doubt thinking of him at this very
+moment.
+
+We were not making much progress in opening conversation, but our
+charming hostess seemed to understand either the doctor’s words or his
+looks, for, stepping into another room, she called us presently to sit
+down to a table well supplied with plain but substantial food. She soon
+made us feel quite at home, just by her easy and agreeable ways. We did
+not once hear her voice in ordinary speech, and at length we began to
+suspect, what we afterward learned to be true, that she talked as the
+birds talk, only in song. Whether she used her language or ours she
+would always sing or chant her words, and every expression was perfect
+in rhythm and melody.
+
+The doctor and I hesitated to say much to each other, out of deference
+to the feelings of this fair lunarian, but he took occasion to remark to
+me quietly that as she could not tell us her name just yet he proposed
+to call her Mona [Footnote: _Mona_ is old Saxon for _moon_.] for the
+present. I assented easily, as it made little difference to me what we
+called her, if she would only remain with us.
+
+It happened that the doctor, who knew everything, was well acquainted
+with dactylology and the latest sign language, used in the instruction
+of deaf mutes, and as it seemed likely that our stay in our present
+abode might be a prolonged one, he told me he would try to teach Mona to
+converse with us. I could not object, although I secretly wished I could
+have taken the place of instructor. But it soon occurred to me that I
+must be a fellow pupil, if we were all to talk in that way; and so,
+with this bond of sympathy established between us, Mona and I began our
+lessons.
+
+During the closing years of the century great progress had been made, on
+the earth, in the method of talking by arbitrary signs and motions.
+The movements of the body and limbs and the great variety of facial
+expressions were all so well adapted to the ideas to be represented that
+it was comparatively easy for an intelligent person to learn to make
+known many of his thoughts. As our studies progressed day after day
+it began to dawn on me that Mona, in spite of the disadvantage of not
+knowing our spoken language, was learning faster than I was. I was
+somewhat chagrined at this at first, but it finally turned out to my
+advantage, for the doctor announced one day that Mona had acquired all
+he knew and could thenceforth teach me if I pleased. Here was a bond
+of sympathy that I had not looked for, but I was glad enough to avail
+myself of it, and delighted to find that Mona was also pleased with
+the plan. With her for a teacher it did not take me long to finish.
+Her graceful movements made poetry of the language, and the web she was
+weaving around my heart was strengthened every hour.
+
+As Mona gradually learned to express herself to our comprehension we
+began to ask her questions about herself and her history. The doctor,
+being less under the spell of her charms than I was, showed a greater
+curiosity, and one of the first things he asked was:
+
+“When do you expect the other members of your family home?”
+
+Mona was at first puzzled, but saw his meaning as soon as the motions
+were repeated, and answered with a few simple signs:
+
+“I have no friends to come home. I am alone.”
+
+The expression we put into our faces told her of our sorrow and sympathy
+better than any words, and the doctor continued:
+
+“But these other houses! Surely they are not all empty?”
+
+“Yes,” she replied, “their inmates are all gone. I am the only
+inhabitant left.”
+
+And then she told us from time to time that there were no other villages
+anywhere in the moon and that she was absolutely the last of her race.
+Our method of conversation was not free enough to allow her to tell us
+how she had discovered the truth of this astounding information, and
+there were a thousand other questions for whose answers we were obliged
+to wait, but not forever.
+
+The doctor and I talked freely to each other now, and playfully said
+a great many things to Mona, who, though she did not understand them,
+laughed with us and gave us much pleasure with her easy, unembarrassed
+manner and piquant ways. And she not only jabbered away with hands and
+face in the manner we had taught her, but she did not cease also to make
+life bright for us by repaying us in our own coin and talking to us in
+her natural, delicious way. With such music in the house life could not
+be dull.
+
+My infatuation increased as the days went by, and I began to seek every
+possible occasion to be alone with Mona. I often encouraged the doctor
+to go out and learn what he could of our surroundings, excusing myself
+from bearing him company on the ground that I did not think it safe to
+leave Mona alone. Or if Mona wanted to go out I would suggest to the
+doctor that I needed the exercise also, and that he really ought to
+be writing down our experiences while he had leisure, as there was no
+telling how soon the moon would land us somewhere.
+
+I did not then know whether the doctor saw through my designs or not.
+I thought not, for I did not suppose he was ever so deeply in love as
+I was. But if he did he was good enough to take my little hints and say
+nothing.
+
+On these occasions, whether Mona and I remained in the house or walked
+abroad, I wasted no time in asking her more questions about the moon or
+such trivial matters, but spent all my efforts in trying to establish
+closer personal relations between us. While she was exceedingly pleasant
+and agreeable, she did not seem to understand my feeling exactly,
+although I tried in every way to show her my heart. She was not
+coquettish, but perfectly unaffected, and simply did not realize my
+meaning. For once the sign language did not prove adequate; and so, as
+my feelings would not be controlled, I was fain to resort to my natural
+tongue, and poured forth my love to my own satisfaction if not to her
+comprehension. I did not stint the words, astonishing myself at the
+fullness of my vocabulary, and hoping that the fervor of my manner and
+the passion exhibited in my voice would make the right impression on my
+companion.
+
+Day after day, as opportunity offered, I returned to the same theme.
+Mona was sympathetic in her own charming way, but apparently not
+affected in the manner I was looking for. And still, “I love you, I love
+you,” was repeated in her ears a thousand times. The fact that she did
+not understand the words made me all the more voluble, and I lavished my
+affectionate terms upon her without restraint.
+
+One day, after this had been going on for some time, the doctor came in
+from a walk and found us together as usual. He had a rare blossom in
+his hand, and stepping to Mona’s side he offered it to her with some
+gallantry. She accepted it with a beaming countenance which set my
+heart to thumping, and then she burst forth in a strain so sweet that
+it thrilled my whole being and roused in me again that jealous fear that
+Mona was learning to care more for the doctor than for me. But how
+shall I describe my emotions when she suddenly blended syllables of
+our language with the accents of her song, and, still looking into the
+doctor’s eyes, closed her entrancing melody with the burning words, “I
+love you”?
+
+I wonder how other men have borne such a shock as that. It seemed to me
+that by simply living during the next few minutes I was proving myself
+stronger than others. And I was able to think, too. It occurred to me
+that perhaps Mona was merely a parrot, repeating, with no perception of
+their meaning, words which she had so often heard from me. But this idea
+passed swiftly away when I remembered the warmth of her expression and
+the ardor of her manner, both of which, alas, she had also learned from
+me.
+
+As I recovered somewhat from the effects of the blow I found Mona’s eyes
+were fixed on me, and she looked so innocent, so entirely unconscious
+of wrong, that if I had any anger in my heart it melted away and left
+me more her slave than ever. There was something in her behavior which
+I could not comprehend, and it was evident that she had not yet acquired
+any particular fondness for me, but these were not sufficient reasons
+to make me cease to care for her. My love was too strong to give her up,
+even after I had just heard her declare, in such a passionate way, her
+love for another. These thoughts passed through my mind as she beamed
+upon me in her radiant beauty, smiling as sweetly as ever, as if to
+encourage me still to live and hope.
+
+But how did the doctor receive this remarkable love-song? Like the
+philosopher he was. Being astonished beyond measure at what he had
+heard, he sat and pondered the subject for some minutes. What chiefly
+interested him was not the personal element in Mona’s words, which was
+so vital a point to me, but the fact that she could make use of any
+words of our language. The possibilities which this fact opened up to
+him were of the greatest moment. If Mona could learn to talk freely
+she would be able to give us much information that would be of great
+scientific value. After he had pursued these thoughts a while it
+suddenly struck him that the expression she had used was a singular one
+to begin with, and he turned to me and laughingly said:
+
+“You must have taught her those words. I did not.”
+
+“I shall have to acknowledge it,” I replied, “but I assure you I did not
+influence her to make such use of them.”
+
+“No, I suppose not; but that question is of small account beside the
+knowledge that Mona has begun to learn our speech. Now let us give all
+our attention to her instruction.”
+
+We did so from that hour, the doctor from high motives of philosophy and
+philanthropy, while I was actuated by more selfish reasons. Although
+I had learned that I had been too hasty in my attempt to gain Mona’s
+affections I did not despair of success. I should have to take time and
+approach the citadel of her untutored heart with more caution. In the
+pleasant task of teaching her the intricacies of the English language
+I anticipated many delightful opportunities of leading her into the
+Elysian fields of romance. If she could learn to understand fully my
+intense feeling for her I had no doubt she would return my passion. With
+such a hopeful spirit does the love god inspire his happy victims.
+
+In order to assist in the realization of these rosy fore-thoughts, I
+suggested to the doctor that each of us should take his turn in Mona’s
+instruction, so as to make it as easy and informal for her as possible.
+He had no objections to make, and we began a task which proved to be
+much simpler than we had imagined. Mona had heard us talk so much
+that she had half-learned a great many words and expressions, and her
+remarkable quickness of intellect helped her to pick up their meaning
+rapidly as soon as we gave her systematic aid. Hence it was not long
+before she began to converse with considerable freedom.
+
+From the first the doctor and I had been curious to know if she
+would give up the musical tone and simply talk as we did, and we were
+pleasantly surprised to find that her song was not interrupted by the
+form of words she used. Whatever the phrase she wanted to employ she
+turned it into verse on the instant and chanted it forth in perfect
+melody. So spontaneous was every expression that her very thoughts
+seemed to be framed in harmony. Her voice was not obtrusive nor
+monotonous and generally not loud, but was always well adapted to the
+sense of what she was singing. The tones mostly used in conversation
+were low and sweet, like rippling water, but these were constantly
+varied by the introduction of notes of greater power and range.
+
+To have such use made of our rugged speech was a revelation to us, and
+words, as we employ them, are inadequate to express our enjoyment of
+Mona’s song, when to its former beauty was added the clear enunciation
+of language that we could understand.
+
+It was through this rare medium that the doctor and I learned, from day
+to day, something of the history of Mona’s race. The surface of the moon
+had once been peopled, as we supposed, but as the day of decay and death
+approached the outside of the globe became too inhospitable to longer
+support life. The interior had cooled and contracted, and as the solid
+crust was rigid enough to keep its place, great, sublunar caverns had
+been formed. Into these rushed the water and the atmosphere, accompanied
+by the few remaining inhabitants. The conditions were not favorable, in
+such places, to the continuation of the race, although their advanced
+knowledge in every direction prevented them from melting away suddenly.
+
+Settlements had been formed in many different sections of the moon,
+and interior communication was established between them. As the people
+gradually passed away, those who remained naturally drew nearer together
+until at last the remnant of the population of the globe were all
+gathered in the little village where we were now living. Here the
+process still went on, and year after year saw a constantly diminishing
+number. A few years before our arrival Mona’s last companion, a girl
+of her own age, had died, and ever since then this tuneful creature,
+possessed of the most sunny disposition we had ever known, had lived
+alone, with the knowledge that there was not another living being in all
+the moon.
+
+“So you see,” she sang, “I was as glad to find you as you were to hear
+me.”
+
+“But,” asked the doctor, “how did you know we were out there, nearly
+ready to be blown off into space?”
+
+“I didn’t know it till I saw you. I went out to try to discover what
+was the matter with my old world. For some time I had had the queerest
+sensations imaginable. I was accustomed to being out of doors a great
+deal, and I first began to notice that I could walk and run more easily
+than before. I was becoming rather sprightly for one who was so soon
+to pass off this deserted stage. Then everything I took up seemed to
+be growing marvelously light, and I began to have a feeling that I must
+hold on to all my movable possessions, to keep them from getting away.
+After this unaccountable state of things had existed for a while, there
+came, one day, a terrible shock, which threatened to crack the moon’s
+skull and rattle its fragments down upon my head. This was followed at
+intervals by similar or lighter shocks, and it was all so exceedingly
+unusual that I became very curious to know what was happening. Then all
+was quiet for many days, but when at length the quakings began again my
+natural instinct of self-preservation told me I ought not to take the
+risk of another such siege, and so I started to make my way to the
+surface by a well-known path. The trouble did not continue as I feared,
+but I kept on, fortunately for you as well as for myself, and found
+the outside world too uncomfortable a place for any of us to remain in
+longer than necessary.”
+
+This halting prose represents the meaning of what Mona said, but it
+gives a feeble idea of the beauty of her poetic expressions, chanted in
+melodious phrase and in ever-changing, ever-joyous tune.
+
+We replied by explaining to her what had happened to her disjointed
+world, expressing our gratitude also for her kindness in bringing us to
+her sheltered home.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER V.
+
+OUR INTRODUCTION TO MARS.
+
+
+Ever since the doctor had been inside of the moon he had not ceased
+to regret that we had left all our goods in the car of our balloon. He
+mourned the loss of the instruments and other apparatus which had
+cost him so much care, and then there were our official papers. Our
+introduction to Mona had been rather too informal, and we thought
+we might stand better with her if we could show her our credentials,
+though, to be sure, she could not read them.
+
+Several times the doctor proposed to me that we should go out and bring
+in what we could carry if, perchance, we should find the wind had left
+us anything. But I had my own reasons for preferring to remain where we
+were. I was happy and was expecting every day to be happier still, and
+so I put the doctor off by reminding him that the weather was very bad
+outside and that we had been glad enough to get in with our lives.
+
+I think he would have agreed with me and would have been contented to
+stay if the question had been left entirely to ourselves. But Mona heard
+us talking it over one day and said we could go without much risk if we
+cared to try it, and she would go with us to take care of us.
+
+Although it would be difficult to tell how Mona could help us when we
+were outside, this idea sounded so assuring that the doctor determined
+to make the attempt. I was obliged to acquiesce, fearing, in my
+ignorance of all that was to happen to us, that the trip would keep me
+too much from Mona’s side.
+
+After due preparation we started, and reached the upper end of the long
+passage without incident. But as we emerged we noticed that the light
+had a peculiar tinge of red, quite different from its usual tone.
+Meditating on this phenomenon, and speaking to each other as we could
+find breath, we ascended the side of the crater, when there burst upon
+our view a magnificent world, apparently but a little way off. Its ruddy
+face showed us plainly what had caused the red light, and the doctor
+made haste to exclaim:
+
+“Aha! let me introduce you to the planet Mars.”
+
+“Yes,” I replied, “and we may become too well acquainted before a great
+while if our rapid flight is not checked.”
+
+We soon found our car just as we had left it, and were glad to take
+advantage of its shelter. In the new danger which loomed up before us
+so threateningly, we all agreed that it would be rash to return into
+the interior of the moon, to be crushed to death in the shock of the
+impending collision; and yet, in remaining where we were, the doctor and
+I felt that no reputable insurance company would call our lives a very
+good risk.
+
+But now was our opportunity to witness some of the depths of Mona’s
+character. What was there in her nature so entirely different from
+anything we had ever known? We had seen persons of cheerful disposition
+before, and had heard of many exhibitions of courage and indifference
+to danger, but here we had the very personification of fearlessness and
+contentment. She talked freely of our situation and of what was likely
+to happen, but appeared to be as light-hearted as ever, and her song was
+just as cheerful as it had been in her quiet home. When we asked her
+if she were not afraid, she replied that there was no such word in her
+language and she could not appreciate its meaning.
+
+“Fear,” said the doctor, “is a feeling excited by the apprehension of
+danger.”
+
+“I think I know about the danger we are in,” she answered, “but I have
+not the feeling you are trying to describe. When I was alone in my
+underground village and thought the roof was about to fall down and bury
+me there, I had no fear, as you say. I know that whatever has come to me
+or to any of my race has always been for our good, and I am sure it
+will be so in the future. I have but a short time to remain as the sole
+inhabitant of this now useless globe, and the manner of my taking off is
+not of the slightest moment. This old world’s day is now passed, and
+I realize in that fact the reason for its unseemly behavior, first
+knocking its toughened crust so rudely against the earth and then
+coquetting in this manner with Mars. It certainly no longer shows any
+respect for the race it has nourished, and hence I see that my day, too,
+will soon be over. Whatever may be your fate you will doubtless see no
+more of me after this excursion is ended.”
+
+In the light of history this seemed extremely probable, and yet Mona
+was not half as concerned about it as I was. I thought she ought to have
+shown more anxiety about her future for my sake if not for her own, and
+I ventured to say, although in a rather doleful tone:
+
+“I hope, Mona, if the doctor and I are freed from this peril that you
+will escape with us. If I thought there was no hope of that, I am sure
+I should propose that we return at once to the middle of the moon and be
+buried together.”
+
+She laughed aloud as she sang out in joyous notes:
+
+“Your mournful voice, my ardent friend, makes me think you would not be
+very happy with the last alternative. But cheer up, we will all stand by
+each other to the last.” It was in her abounding good nature and in her
+faculty for inspiring us with her own hopeful disposition that we found
+Mona fulfilling her promise to take care of us.
+
+But now our attention could not be diverted from the planet which was
+rapidly growing before our eyes. As we approached nearer and nearer
+every minute, flying at such a terrific rate and aimed, apparently, for
+a direct collision, it may be imagined that the doctor and I, in spite
+of Mona’s presence, began to be exceedingly anxious lest our journey and
+our lives should meet an abrupt and common end.
+
+Unless such excursions as ours become more frequent in the future, it
+will probably always remain a mystery how this one came to a close.
+I can only relate our experience during the time that we retained our
+consciousness, and leave the imagination to picture the rest. As we
+entered the atmosphere of the planet, the rush of air increased till it
+seemed as if a hundred Niagaras were sounding in our ears. I remember
+having a dim feeling of satisfaction in the belief that such a violent
+contact with the atmosphere must impede the moon’s progress, and offer
+us some chance of landing in safety. Then I was bereft of all sense, and
+when I regained consciousness I was lying in the bottom of our car in
+perfect quiet and apparently unharmed.
+
+I called aloud for the doctor, but no voice replied. Rising, I looked
+about me and found I was afloat on a ruddy sea, alone, as far as my
+senses could inform me, alone in a new world. Such a sensation of
+homesickness came over me, such a longing for human fellowship, that our
+former lonesome condition on the moon seemed like a paradise compared to
+my present wretchedness.
+
+So this was Mars, which we had studied with our telescopes and about
+whose condition and history we had so often speculated. And now, as I
+leaned my elbows on the edge of the car and gazed off over the deep, I
+wondered, with more interest than I had ever before possessed, if the
+world I had discovered were inhabited. Perhaps because it was such a
+vital question with me, my naturally hopeful disposition began to find
+reasons for a cheerful view. There were certainly favorable evidences
+all about me. I was breathing an atmosphere evidently made for lungs
+like mine. The air was soft and pleasant, and though I was drenched with
+water by my fall I was not uncomfortable. I tasted the water and, oh!
+joyful reminder of home, it was salt. The sun shed a beautiful light
+around me, and as I glanced upward to see how bright and cheerful the
+sky was, my reverie was suddenly broken off, for directly over my head,
+poised as quietly as if it had always been there, was our old moon. It
+seemed but a few miles away and I gazed at it with mixed feelings, with
+thankfulness that I had escaped from its inhospitable surface with
+my life, and with scorn for its present behavior. For there it was,
+apparently perfectly at home and ready to bear the torch for Mars as
+faithfully as it always had for the earth, its rightful mistress.
+
+“Inconstancy,” I cried, “thy name is Luna.”
+
+[Illustration: THORWALD DISCOVERS ONE OF THE EARTH-DWELLERS.]
+
+When the novelty of this sensational discovery was gone, my mind
+returned to the contemplation of myself, and my situation seemed to me
+so unique as to remove some of the natural feeling of fear. When one is
+shipwrecked in the ordinary way his anxiety is caused by the uncertainty
+that anyone will come to his rescue; while in my case I did not even
+know there was anyone to come. But when I looked up at the moon and
+remembered its erratic climate and our wild, unearthly journey, I could
+not suppress a feeling of satisfaction with my changed condition. If
+the doctor had only been with me we would have been able to extract
+considerable comfort from our surroundings. But, as it was, I was very
+lonesome, and whatever consolation I got from my reasoning about the
+planet’s habitability was increased a thousand fold by seeing a speck
+upon the horizon, which I hoped might prove to be a sail. I watched
+it with intense interest, and was not disappointed. I will not try to
+describe my feelings as this ship of Mars approached me, while I sat
+wondering what manner of men I should see. The first thing that struck
+me was the enormous size of the craft, and as it drew near I could see
+that it was manned by beings proportionately large. I now began to fear
+I should be run down, but soon I noticed one of the passengers or crew
+who seemed to be looking at me through a glass. In a little while the
+vessel slowed up, and a boat was put off in which a number of giants,
+including the man with the glass, rowed toward me. When they had nearly
+reached me I heard the latter say to the others:
+
+“Yes, this is surely the little fellow we are searching for.”
+
+I could not imagine what he meant by this, although it occurred to me
+that it was a pleasant thing to have him speak good, plain English; but
+the other circumstances were so entirely novel that, instead of opening
+the conversation with some conventional remark, like a sensible person,
+I burst out with:
+
+“But Proctor says Mars has passed its life-bearing period.”
+
+I hardly knew what I said, but it proved that they were just the words
+to commend me to my new friend, for as he reached over and lifted me
+into the boat he said:
+
+“Why, how did you know Proctor? You must have misunderstood him, for he
+would never say such a thing as that.”
+
+While I was puzzling over this strange speech he continued:
+
+“I think we have some one in the ship whom you will be glad to see.”
+
+I began to fear I should not get on very well in Mars if all the
+inhabitants talked in such riddles, but I said, as politely as I could:
+
+“I am sure I need not wait to get to the ship to be pleased. I am
+delighted to see you and your companions here.”
+
+While we were returning to the vessel I gave Thorwald, for such I found
+to be his name, a brief account of our journey on the moon and of my
+mysterious arrival on their planet. I expatiated on the merits of the
+doctor, and told Thorwald that he was probably still on the moon or else
+at the bottom of their ocean.
+
+I was thinking that Thorwald did not show much sympathy with me, when,
+our boat having nearly reached the ship’s side, I looked up and saw the
+doctor himself standing on the deck, a pigmy among giants. I was soon by
+his side, and we embraced before our new-found friends without a blush.
+
+“Where’s Mona?” were the first words he said.
+
+“Mona!” I replied. “Who’s Mona?”
+
+“Who’s Mona?” he returned. “Well, you have recovered pretty rapidly.”
+
+I now discovered that, although I had found the body of my friend, the
+best part of him was missing. In the fall from the moon he had evidently
+lost his wits. I thought I would not let him know too suddenly what was
+the matter, and so I merely said:
+
+“Yes, I went into the water, but was not much hurt. When I came to my
+senses I found myself in our car still. Tell me how you escaped.”
+
+“Oh, I happened to fall near this ship, fortunately, and they picked me
+up, and then, at my request, they set out to search for you and Mona.”
+
+“Well,” said I, “you found me, and I am very thankful for it, but Mona I
+fear you will never see.”
+
+“What was the last you saw of her?” he asked.
+
+I had great difficulty in keeping myself from laughing in the doctor’s
+face at his odd fancy, but the thought came to me with some force that I
+must not let his mental condition become known to the men of Mars around
+us; and so, instead of replying to his question, I turned to Thorwald
+and asked him if he could tell us how the moon had landed us so easily
+on their planet.
+
+In answer he gave it as his opinion that as the moon came rushing toward
+them so swiftly it compressed the air in its path to such a degree
+that it acted as a cushion, preventing a collision and sending the moon
+bounding back over the path by which it had come. Probably at the moment
+when it was nearest the surface, we had fallen off into the ocean.
+The rebound, he supposed, was not sufficient to carry it beyond the
+attraction of the planet, and so it poised itself and began to make a
+revolution around Mars in its old-fashioned way.
+
+Thorwald told us we had taken the best possible time to visit them, for
+Mars had not been so near the earth before in a great while.
+
+Our new acquaintances were from nine to ten feet tall and
+proportionately large every other way, so that they appeared quite
+monstrous to us. But they were agile and even graceful in their
+movements, while in manner they were so gentle and pleasing that we
+recognized at once their high culture.
+
+The vessel was soon under way and made rapid progress, and though our
+voyage was not very long, it proved to be an exceedingly profitable one
+to the doctor and me, for we learned more, through conversation with our
+new friends, about the history and condition of Mars than we could have
+gained in any other way. The men were all kind to us and seemed to be
+all equally able to impart information, but most of our intercourse was
+with Thorwald. He gave us much of his time, at intervals as he could be
+spared from work, for every man helped at the service of the ship. There
+seemed to be no system of leadership, but all appeared to know what was
+to be done, and did it without orders and without clashing.
+
+As we entered into conversation about the earth and Mars, I was
+surprised to find the doctor taking his full share in it with his usual
+intelligence. His questions and answers were all so pertinent that I
+should have supposed his mind was entirely unaffected, had I not known
+to the contrary. When I saw he could hold his own so well, I determined
+to take the first opportunity when we were alone to ask him again who
+Mona was.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VI
+
+A REMARKABLE PEOPLE.
+
+
+The conversation with our new friends was not all on one side, for we
+had many questions to answer about the earth, the Martian mind showing
+as great a thirst for knowledge as ours. One of the first things
+Thorwald said after we had settled down to a good talk was:
+
+“But, Doctor, your little head is so full of thought that it seems to me
+you ought not to have been surprised to find us so large here. You knew
+before you came that Mars is much smaller than the earth and, therefore,
+the attraction of gravitation being less, that everything can grow more
+easily. Things may as well be one size as another if only they are well
+adapted to each other, and we would never have known we were large or
+that you were small had we not been brought together. In the sight of
+Him who made both the earth and Mars, and fashioned one for you and the
+other for us, we are neither great nor small. In fact, size is never
+absolute but only relative.”
+
+“That is very clear to us now,” said the doctor, “and I promise not to
+be surprised again, even when I walk the streets of your cities and see
+you in your houses.”
+
+“Then, Doctor,” said I, “if we had found inhabitants on the moon what
+great folks they must have seemed to us.”
+
+This was an exceedingly foolish remark for me to make, for it resulted
+in the doctor’s almost betraying his condition to our friends.
+
+Of course Thorwald was interested in what I said, and eagerly inquired:
+
+“So you found no inhabitants in the moon?”
+
+“Just one,” spoke up the doctor quickly.
+
+“What! you found one and left him there?”
+
+“It was a woman,” said the doctor.
+
+This talk had been so rapid that I had not had a chance to interfere,
+but I saw that I must stop it now for the doctor’s sake. When I could
+see him alone I could tell him his memory was playing him a trick and he
+must avoid that subject. So, before Thorwald could speak again, I said:
+
+“Let me suggest, Thorwald, that we let the moon rest till we have heard
+more of Mars, which I am sure is of greater importance. We have told you
+many things in regard to our planet, and are willing to answer all the
+questions you may please to ask from time to time, but now we would like
+to listen a while.”
+
+“Yes,” said the doctor, “we started on this expedition to add to our
+scientific knowledge, and we seem in a fair way to accomplish our
+purpose; so that, if you will find a way to send us back to the earth
+some time, I think our friends will admit that we have been successful.
+But first we want to learn all we can about this wonderful world. How
+long has your race existed? Our astronomers tell us Mars is too old
+to be inhabited, and, considering some of my own recent experiences in
+finding my science unreliable, it rather consoles me to discover that
+they are mistaken.”
+
+“They are right,” Thorwald answered, “in believing that Mars is very
+old, and so our race is nearing its maturity. It is impossible to
+judge accurately of the age of the planet itself, but we know it is
+exceedingly old from the evidences of changes that have taken place on
+its surface. Neither can we tell when our race was born, though we have
+legends and traditions dating back fifty thousand years, and authentic
+history for nearly half that time.”
+
+The doctor and myself now began to realize that we had indeed something
+to learn from these people, and I remarked:
+
+“These figures astonish us, Thorwald, and you can hardly understand how
+interested we are. But please continue. From what little I have seen
+I should think you are much farther advanced in everyway than the
+inhabitants of the earth.”
+
+“We believe,” replied the Martian, “that our planet is much older
+than the earth, and if we are right in that it is but natural that our
+civilization should be older also. If the tendency of mind is toward
+perfection, if in your experience you have found that, in the main, men
+look upward more than downward, what would you expect to find in a world
+so beautiful as this and where life has existed so long? From what we
+know of our own history and from what we have learned of the worlds
+around us, we believe the life-bearing period of Mars has long since
+passed its middle point, and that both our planet and our race have
+passed through convulsions and changes to which other worlds, perhaps
+the earth, are now subjected.”
+
+This appeared so reasonable that I said to him:
+
+“We must believe that Mars is an afternoon planet. And now we want to
+hear whatever you may choose to tell us about your civilization.”
+
+“That is a broad subject,” replied Thorwald, “but it is something I like
+to talk about. If I judge rightly of what you have already told me of
+the earth and its people, I think we were in just about your situation
+ages ago and that we have merely matured. That is, the causes now
+at work on the earth are having in us their legitimate effect. These
+processes are slow but sure. To the Infinite time is of no more
+importance in itself than is size.
+
+“I know of no better topic to begin with,” continued Thorwald, “than the
+matter of government. You wondered at the peculiar discipline on board
+this ship. It is but a type of what you will find on land. We have
+no government in its strict sense, for there is no one that needs
+governing. We have organization for mutual help in many ways, but no
+rulers nor legislators. The only government is that of the family. Here
+character is formed so that when the children go forth into the world no
+one desires to wrong his neighbor. We know from our histories of all
+the struggles our ancestors passed through before the days of universal
+peace and brotherhood. Now we go and come as we please, with no fear of
+harm. We are all one nation because all national boundaries have
+been obliterated, and we have a common language. There are no laws
+of compulsion or restraint, for all do by instinct what is best for
+themselves and their neighbors.”
+
+“Oh, happy Mars!” here broke in the usually prosaic doctor. “That sounds
+like a story. And yet what is it,” he continued, addressing me, “but
+the effect of perfect obedience to our golden rule? If men should really
+learn to do to others as they would have others do to them, what a
+transformation it would accomplish.”
+
+“So that is what you call the golden rule, is it?” asked Thorwald. “And
+are you all trying to live by it?”
+
+“Well,” I replied, “that is what many of us profess to be doing, but I
+must say we fall far, very far short of the mark. I do not know a single
+inhabitant of the earth, with the possible exception of my companion
+here, who fully obeys that command.”
+
+The doctor’s smile was not lost on Thorwald, who replied:
+
+“It was rather too bad of you to bring so far away from the earth the
+only good man the planet contained; but I am glad to know the golden
+rule, as you may well call it, has been given to men. We have had
+the same here, and, oh! if I could make you realize something of the
+struggle our race has had in working it into life and practice, you
+would gain some hope for the people of the earth. I mean, the result of
+this struggle would give you hope, for I am not ashamed to say that
+we are now living up to the full requirements of this law, and if you
+should spend the remainder of your lives with us I am sure you would not
+find my statement untrue. It is only by actually loving our neighbors
+as ourselves that we are able to live as we do. The law of love has
+replaced the law of force. It is well for you to understand this at
+the beginning, for it is the secret of our wonderful success in all the
+higher forms of civilization.”
+
+“It must have helped you greatly,” said I, “in the matter of which you
+have just been speaking, that of government.”
+
+“Yes, it has,” he replied. “In our histories we have full accounts of
+the long course of events when we were divided into hundreds of nations,
+each with its own pride and ambition, and each striving to build up
+itself upon the misfortunes or the ruins of its neighbors. You can
+perhaps imagine what a mass of material we have for reading and study.”
+
+“We can,” spoke up the student doctor, “and it fairly makes my mouth
+water. But tell us briefly, Thorwald, how you ever passed from those
+troublous times to the blissful state in which we now find you.”
+
+“The transition was exceedingly slow; it seemed, in fact, impossible
+that such a change could ever be effected. But it began with the
+establishment of universal peace, which was demanded by the growing
+spirit of brotherly love, and assisted by commercial reciprocity and a
+world language. Gradually national boundaries were found to be only an
+annoyance, and in time--a long time, of course--we became one nation
+and finally no nation. For now no one exercises any authority over his
+neighbors, since the need for all artificial distinctions has long since
+passed away.”
+
+“Then,” said I, “you have no doubt lost all fear and anxiety over the
+conflicting interests of capital and labor.”
+
+“Yes,” replied Thorwald, “for we have no such distinctions in society as
+rich and poor, workingmen and capitalists. We all work as we please,
+but there is so little to do that no one is burdened, and one cannot be
+richer than another because all the material bounties of nature and art
+are common to all, being as free as the air. I suppose, as this seems to
+be strange talk to you, that you cannot realize what it is to belong to
+a society where everyone considers the interests of his neighbor as much
+as his own. You will find when you reach that point that most of your
+troubles will be gone, as ours are.”
+
+“Our troubles!” said the doctor. “Many of our troubles, to be sure,
+arise from our passions and appetites--in other words, from our
+selfishness--and these will no doubt disappear when we reach that
+blessed state of which you have spoken, a condition prayed for and
+dimly expected by many of our race. But other troubles of ours come from
+sickness and severe toil, from accidents, famines, and the convulsions
+of nature. How, for example, can you have escaped the latter, unless,
+indeed, God has helped those who have so wisely helped themselves?”
+
+“Your last thought is right,” answered our friend. “Nature has certainly
+assisted us. While the crust of the planet was thin we know the central
+fires heaved and shook the ground and burst forth from the mountains,
+causing great destruction and keeping the world in fear. We do not know
+how thick the crust of the planet now is, but nothing has been felt of
+those inner convulsions for many ages. One of our feats of engineering
+has been to see how far we could penetrate into the surface of the
+globe. A well of vast size has been dug, the temperature being carefully
+noted and observations made of the many different substances passed
+through--water, coal, gas, oil, and all kinds of mineral deposits. The
+work has progressed from one generation to another, and no one can tell
+when it will be called finished, as it is determined to dig toward the
+center of the planet as fast as our ever-increasing skill will permit.”
+
+“Did you find out how thick the crust is?” I asked.
+
+“No,” he answered, “we are not much nearer the solution of that question
+than before, but we have made valuable discoveries as to what the crust
+is composed of. The temperature has gradually, though slowly, increased,
+and we believe the time will come when the work will have to be
+abandoned on account of the heat. We have gone far enough to know that
+when the fuel on the surface of our globe is all used up we shall only
+have to tap the center to get all the heat we want.”
+
+“What a capital idea that will be,” I interrupted, “to throw at some of
+our pessimistic friends on the earth, Doctor.”
+
+“We see now, Thorwald,” my companion said, “that your planet is too old
+to give you any more trouble from earthquake and volcano, but how about
+other natural phenomena, the tempest and cyclone for example?”
+
+“Well,” replied Thorwald, “we have a theory that time, the great healer,
+has cured these evils also. Let me ask, Doctor, if the earth ever
+receives any accretions of matter from outside its own atmosphere?”
+
+“Yes, we have the fall of meteorites, foreign substances which we
+believe the earth encounters in its path around the sun.”
+
+“I supposed such must be the case,” Thorwald continued. “And now, when
+you consider the great age of Mars, perhaps you will not be surprised
+to learn that this new matter, coming to us from the outside, was
+sufficient to increase the weight of our globe and gradually decrease
+the rate of speed at which we were traveling through space.”
+
+“I am surprised, though,” said the doctor, “because the accumulation of
+meteorolites on the surface of the earth is so exceedingly slow that
+it would take millions of years, at the present rate, to increase its
+diameter one inch.”
+
+“But perhaps they came much faster in past ages. Let me ask you, Doctor,
+if it is not a fact that the rate of revolution of Mars around the sun
+is slower than the earth’s? I suppose you are far enough advanced in
+astronomical science to answer that.”
+
+“Yes,” replied the doctor, “you are correct. I believe the earth speeds
+along at nineteen miles a second, while Mars travels only sixteen miles
+in the same time.”
+
+“We know by our computations that our speed is much less than it once
+was, and our theory is that this has in some way hushed those terrible
+storms and winds which we know were formerly so frequent.”
+
+Here the doctor thought he saw a chance to make a point, and spoke as
+follows:
+
+“If the meteorites come in quantities sufficient to have caused such
+changes, it seems to me their fall must be as great a menace to your
+peace as the evils they have cured. They do not strike the earth in
+large numbers, but still we have a record of a shower of meteoric stones
+which devastated a whole village. I suppose all parts of your globe
+are by this time well populated, and how can you be entirely free from
+trouble when you are living in constant danger of the downfall of these
+great masses of rock?”
+
+“But we don’t have meteorites now,” replied Thorwald.
+
+“Oh, you don’t?”
+
+“No, they ceased falling long ago. Mars is going slow enough for the
+present.”
+
+“Very kind of them, I am sure, to stop when you didn’t need them any
+longer,” said the doctor; “and I suppose you have some plausible reason
+to give for their disappearance.”
+
+“Yes, we believe that the interplanetary space was well filled
+with these small bodies, circling around the sun, and when their
+multitudinous and eccentric orbits intercepted the orbits of the
+planets, they came within the attraction of these larger masses. Mars
+has merely, in the course of time, cleared for itself a broad path
+in its yearly journey and is now encountering no more straggling
+fragments.”
+
+“There, Doctor,” said I, “you are well answered. And now, Thorwald, tell
+us how you have escaped other evils, famine and fire for instance.”
+
+“Fire,” continued our friend, “was one of the first foes subdued. We
+quite early learned to make our habitations and everything about us of
+fireproof materials, and, if I mistake not, you on the earth will not
+long endure an enemy which can be so easily put down. You will find all
+materials can be so treated with chemicals as to be absolutely safe from
+the flames. We have fire only when and where we desire it.
+
+“When you speak of famines you touch a more difficult subject, but here,
+too, time and skill have wrought wonderful changes. In our histories we
+read of the time when the weather was chiefly noted for its fickleness,
+and when some parts of our globe were mere desert wastes, where rain
+was unknown and no life could exist. And in the inhabited portions one
+section would often be deluged with too much rain while another would
+have none, both conditions leading to a failure in agriculture and much
+consequent suffering. A long time was spent in gathering statistics,
+which finally proved that if the rainfall were distributed there would
+be just about enough to water sufficiently the whole surface of the
+globe. Nature provided rain enough, but it did not always fall where and
+when it was most needed. It seemed to be left with us to find a remedy
+for this apparent evil. When I say ‘us’ in this way I mean our race as a
+whole, for most of these changes took place many ages ago.
+
+“Our philosophers had seen so many difficulties removed and improvements
+made in things supposed to be fixed that they began, once upon a time,
+to assert that rain and snow and the weather in general ought to
+be subject to our will. They said that in the advanced state of
+civilization toward which we were progressing it would seem to be
+an anomalous thing that we should continue to be subjected to the
+annoyances of so changeable a tyrant as the weather. We seemed destined
+to gain control of so many of the forces of nature that our future
+mastery in this department looked to them reasonable. For a long time
+these views appeared fanciful to the many, but this did not deter a few
+enthusiasts from study and experiment. As knowledge and skill increased
+we began, little by little, to gain control of the elements; but do not
+imagine it was anything less than a slow and laborious work.
+
+“First, as we learned something of the laws which control the
+precipitation of the moisture suspended in the atmosphere, we discovered
+a way to produce rain by mechanical means. As this discovery was
+gradually developed we found we had really solved the problem. For, as
+there was only a certain amount of moisture taken up into the air, the
+quantity of rain could not be increased nor diminished, and so when we
+made it rain in one place it was always at the expense of the rainfall
+somewhere else.
+
+“Since those early days vast improvement has been made, until now these
+laws, once so mysterious and so perplexing, are obedient to our service.
+The whole face of our planet has been reclaimed, and drouth and famine
+on the one hand and floods on the other are entirely unknown. Each
+section of country is given rain or snow or sunshine just as it needs
+it, and there is no uncertainty in the matter.”
+
+When Thorwald had reached this point my curiosity prompted me to ask him
+to tell us in a few words how they could make it rain when they pleased,
+and he answered that he would be glad to give us details of all these
+matters if we insisted on it, but he thought it would be better for him
+to present a general view of the state of their society, leaving it for
+us to see with our own eyes how things were done, after we had reached
+our destination.
+
+I readily acquiesced, with an apology for my interruption, and Thorwald
+resumed:
+
+“The doctor spoke of accidents, sickness, and severe toil as among the
+sources of your troubles. With us, at the present day, all natural
+laws are so well understood and so faithfully obeyed that there are no
+accidents. Machinery and appliances of all kinds are perfect; nothing is
+left to chance, but everything is governed by law. And as we follow that
+law in every instance nothing can ever happen, in the old sense of that
+word. To take a homely example, you have of course learned that it is
+not well to put your hand into the fire, and so, though you use a good
+deal of fire you keep your hands out of it. You know what the law is,
+and you do not tempt it. By our long experience we have learned the
+operation of all laws, and in every position in life we simply avoid
+putting our hand into the fire. To be sure, we have been assisted in
+this by superior skill and by our general steadiness and ripeness of
+character. If I read history aright accidents were caused by ignorance
+or neglect of law, and I am sure the people of the earth, when they
+begin to realize fully how unnecessary they are, will soon outgrow them.
+
+“As for sickness, you cannot understand how strange the word sounds to
+me. Just think for a moment how useless, how out of place, such a
+thing as sickness is. Like the subject just spoken of, it comes from
+disobedience to law, and although I know we were a long time in ridding
+ourselves of it, it seems to me now that it must be one of the easiest
+of your troubles to remove. With us the science of medicine became so
+perfect that it accomplished a great deal of the reform, but more was
+done by each individual acquiring full knowledge of himself and acting
+up to that knowledge. In learning to love our neighbors we did not
+forget to foster a proper love for ourselves. In fact, our creed
+teaches that self-love is one of our most important duties. When one is
+instructed to love his neighbor as himself it is presupposed that his
+affection for himself is of that high quality that will always lead
+him to do the very best he can for every part of his being. So, as our
+development continued, we came in time to love ourselves too well to
+despise or abuse or neglect the bodies we lived in. We studied how
+best to nurture and care for those bodies, and when that lesson was
+thoroughly learned we found that sickness and pain were gone, and with
+them, also, all fear of death. For now we die when our days are fully
+ended. The span of our life has been doubled since we began to know
+and care for ourselves, and, at the close, death is anticipated and
+recognized as a friend.”
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VII.
+
+RAPID TRANSIT ON MARS.
+
+
+Here Thorwald paused and said he should be obliged to leave us a short
+time to attend to some duty in the management of the vessel. When he
+returned I remarked that neither he nor his companions seemed to have to
+work very hard.
+
+“That,” he answered, “is just the thought I want to speak of next, as
+the doctor has said many earthly troubles arise from severe labor. Here
+there is no hard work for us. It is all done by some kind of mechanism.
+Look at the handling of this ship, in which, as you say, no one is
+burdened. The hard and disagreeable parts of the work are taken out
+of our hands and are put into the hand of machinery, which in its
+perfection is almost intelligent. It is so in all departments of work.
+Inventions looking toward the saving of labor have closely followed each
+other for so many years that their object is about accomplished, and all
+the pain and sorrow accompanying daily toil are things of the dead past.
+Even our animals are relieved from distressing labor and share with
+us the blessings of an advanced civilization, every heavy weight being
+raised and every burdensome load being drawn by an arm of steel or
+aluminum, which neither tires nor feels. We do not need to pity a
+machine. Why should flesh and blood, whether of dumb beasts or of more
+intelligent beings, suffer the agony of labor when the work can be
+better done by mechanical means?
+
+“While speaking of the lower animals I may as well say here that we have
+no wild beasts. All have been tamed; not merely brought into subjection,
+but made the friends and companions in a sense of our higher race. Every
+animal, large and small, has lost its power and will to harm us. The
+wasp has lost its sting, the serpent its poison, and the tiger its
+desire to tear. And not only is their enmity to us all gone, but they no
+longer prey upon each other. Perfect peace reigns in this realm also.”
+
+“What has brought about this highly interesting condition?” I asked.
+“Was there a natural tendency toward perfection on the part of the
+beasts?”
+
+“No,” replied Thorwald, “I think not. The change has been accomplished
+by us. Nothing that has life could help being uplifted by contact with
+our ever-expanding civilization. We believe the chief factor in working
+this great betterment in the animal creation has been our success in
+entirely eliminating flesh as an article of food. We early came to see
+it was not necessary for ourselves and that without it we were much
+better prepared to assume the higher duties belonging to our advanced
+life. We then began to experiment with the animals nearest us. It was
+a slow and discouraging task at first, but finally we obtained results
+that gave us hope of success. We found in the course of many years that
+the digestive organs of the animals on which we were experimenting were
+gradually becoming accustomed to a vegetable diet. We continued the
+work, extending it to one class of animals after another, until in time
+all carnivorous instincts disappeared.”
+
+This interested the doctor exceedingly, and he remarked that he should
+think there would have been some kinds of animals that would resist all
+efforts to work such a change in them; but Thorwald answered:
+
+“I have never read of such cases, but if there were any the species must
+have become extinct, for now, in all this world, no conscious life is
+taken to support another life. No blood is let for our refreshment and
+no minutest creature is pursued and slain to appease the appetite of its
+stronger neighbor.”
+
+“Does this condition extend even to the fish of the sea?” inquired the
+doctor.
+
+“Even to the fish of the sea,” answered the Martian.
+
+“Now that you discover,” he continued, “what improvement has been
+wrought in the lower animals, you can understand that their comfort is
+an object of our solicitude, and that we take great pleasure in knowing
+that they are relieved from all hard labor.”
+
+“But you haven’t told us,” said I, “what is the source of the power that
+does all your work.”
+
+“Let me ask,” replied Thorwald, “if you have begun to use electricity
+yet?”
+
+“Yes,” I answered, “we are trying to harness it, but it is still far
+from obedient to us.”
+
+“I perceive,” said our friend, “from this and other things you have
+told me, that your development is going on in about the order which has
+prevailed on Mars. Do not be discouraged in your efforts to bring that
+mysterious and wonderful agent, electricity, into complete subjection.
+You will find it your most useful servant, and in connection with
+aluminum it will enable you to solve numerous problems and remove many
+difficulties from your path of progress.
+
+“Here we have made full use of both of these valuable helps. Electricity
+enters into every department of life.
+
+“It runs our errands, takes us from place to place, builds our houses,
+cooks our food, and even is applied to the growth of our food when we
+are in haste for any article. Its laws are so well understood that there
+is no fear of personal injury from its use, and I will show you how
+familiar an aid it is to us. Here,” he continued, taking from his
+pocket a brightly polished case of metal, “is a compact storage battery,
+containing, not electricity itself, of course, but elements so prepared
+that a simple touch will start into motion a powerful current, able to
+perform almost any task I may ask of it. This case, you see, is so small
+and light that it is no burden, and yet it contains power enough to
+serve me for many days. Of course, all our work of a fixed character
+has appliances with the power permanently attached, and these portable
+reservoirs are carried about with us only for detached and unexpected
+tasks.”
+
+To my experienced eye the doctor’s face looked a little skeptical at
+this last remark, and he said:
+
+“But how can the power be applied in these emergencies? Suppose, for
+example, it were necessary for you to go from here to the other end of
+this vessel in half a second, how would the electricity in your box help
+you do it?”
+
+“If I really thought, Doctor, you wanted to be rid of me I would be
+tempted to try it; but, as I told your companion just now, you had
+better learn all you can of our history before you begin to see what we
+can do.
+
+“I haven’t told you half of the wonders performed by this marvelous
+power. It has long been our chief reliance for rapid traveling. You find
+us in this ship; but, although navigation is a perfected science, this
+mode of traveling is tedious, and ships are used only for pleasure and
+such out-of-the-way trips as this. Journeys from place to place over
+established routes are made in large tubes, in which the cars are
+propelled by electricity. These tubes run both on land and water, being
+suspended in the latter a little way below the surface. Both tubes and
+cars are air-tight, and the adjustment is so perfect that the cars slide
+along with the greatest ease. Riding in an air-tight chamber would not
+be pleasant if much time were to be occupied in that way, but the cars
+are propelled so swiftly that the time from one station to another is
+hardly appreciable. At every stop the cars are opened and apparatus set
+in motion which changes the air completely almost in a moment. Where the
+tubes run under water shafts for air are put in at the stations. There
+is always a double line, one tube for each direction. No chance is left
+for accidents.
+
+“Of course we navigate the air, swiftly and safely. If not in too much
+haste we always take the aerial passage, and often on a pleasant day the
+sky over a great city will be as full of air ships, or balloons as we
+still sometimes call them, as its harbor is of pleasure boats. In this
+department inventors had a fruitful field, the use of aluminum offering
+abundant opportunity for the greatest variety of devices, and the
+development of the flying machine was one of the most interesting
+features in the march toward our present high civilization. Perhaps the
+presence of so many electrical machines in the air and the utilization
+of so much electricity on land and water have, after thousands of years,
+done much toward freeing us from the thunderstorm, with its deadly
+lightning. We have fairly robbed the clouds of their electricity and
+taught it to do our work.
+
+“Swift and economical as our modern electric cars are, there is one
+mode of traveling sometimes adopted which is more rapid still, and
+the cheapest and in some respects the easiest way of getting over the
+surface of the globe ever dreamed of. It was discovered by accident,
+just before accidents entirely ceased, in the following manner:
+
+“A couple of scientific enthusiasts, of the kind we call cranks--I don’t
+know what you call them on the earth--conceived the idea that they
+could find something better to take the place of the highly purified and
+buoyant gases which we used in our flying machines. They observed, in
+the lofty flights they were accustomed to make into the air, that as
+they ascended the atmosphere grew lighter, and this led them to think
+they might go far into the upper regions, collect large quantities of
+rarefied air, bring it down, and use it for floating flying machines. Of
+course, they understood that any vessel this thin air was put into must
+be strong enough to prevent being collapsed by the weight of the denser
+atmosphere on the surface. But they thought small spherical vessels of
+very thin metal could be made that would withstand this pressure and
+still hold enough to float and carry some weight besides. They had a
+large number of these hollow balls made and started on a trial trip,
+expecting to bring down only a small quantity each time. But, in their
+endeavor to obtain the very best quality of lifting material possible,
+they went much higher than they intended, although this did not cause
+them as much inconvenience as might have been expected, since they were
+provided with the latest improved breathing apparatus. The result of
+their adventure, however, was a discovery of such magnitude that it
+drove from their minds all thought of their real errand and we never
+again heard of that project. After remaining at an extreme height a few
+hours, the surface of the planet being hidden by clouds, they began
+to descend, and when they were near enough to see the features of the
+country below them, everything looked strange and unknown. They could
+not account for this, but continued their fall, fully persuaded that it
+must be their own world and not some other which they were approaching.
+But even if they had not been correct in that, they could hardly have
+been more surprised than they were to find, on landing, that they were
+almost exactly on the opposite side of the globe from the place where
+they made the ascent. They seemed to have traveled half way around the
+world in that incredibly short space of time, when in reality they had
+remained stationary and the world had traveled around them. The fact is,
+they had risen above all the denser portion of the planet’s atmosphere,
+and had reached a stratum of extremely rarefied air, which, it seems,
+does not accompany the globe in its revolution. Of course, the facts
+were at once heralded to the four quarters of the world, and the two
+aerial travelers found themselves famous. But they did not wish to
+let such an astounding discovery rest upon the results of a single
+experiment, and so they proved themselves worthy of their new fame
+by going home the way they came. That is, they mounted their flying
+machine, rose again to the same lofty height, remained there about the
+same time as before, descended, and were near their home.”
+
+Here the doctor asked:
+
+“And has this singular mode of traveling become popular, Thorwald?”
+
+“For long distances east and west it is often resorted to. But I presume
+you are asking yourself whether you could introduce it on the earth.
+When you return and begin to think it over you will probably see so many
+practical difficulties in the way that you will not attempt it. You must
+have patience. All these things will come to your race in time.”
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VIII.
+
+THORWALD PUZZLED.
+
+
+“I fear,” continued Thorwald, “that I am wearying you with this long
+talk.”
+
+We assured him we were enjoying it too much to think of being tired, and
+hoped he would not stop. But he said he had some duties to attend to,
+and would take us to his room and leave us by ourselves for a while.
+
+As soon as we were alone the doctor looked at me with a smile and said:
+
+“Why did you act so queerly when I spoke of Mona?”
+
+“Why did you speak so?” I asked in reply. “And how could you tell
+Thorwald we found one inhabitant on the moon?”
+
+“Did you want to have me tell him a falsehood?”
+
+“Of course not. I tried to catch your eye and keep you from saying any
+thing on the subject till we could consult in regard to it. If we are
+going to color our narrative in order to make it more marvelous we must
+at least make our stories agree.”
+
+“My friend,” said the doctor, “I am now confirmed in my suspicion that
+your brain was affected by your fall from the moon.”
+
+I saw by this time that I need not hesitate further to tell the doctor
+the truth. I disliked the task, but I saw it would not be safe to leave
+him any longer in ignorance of his condition. There as no telling what
+other preposterous tales he might invent. So I said to him gently:
+
+“Doctor, your last remark makes it easier for me to tell you that the
+first words you said to me on this vessel showed me that you were not
+right. I kept it from our new friends here, and I thought I had better
+tell you how you are, so you can be a little cautious. You talk all
+right on most subjects, but you will do well to avoid the moon as a
+topic of conversation. If the others ask any more questions about the
+moon, you can just let me answer them.”
+
+I said all this seriously enough, but the doctor laughed boisterously as
+he answered:
+
+“Well, if this isn’t a joke. You think I am crazy, and I know you are
+crazy, and I can prove it. I will just ask you one question, which
+please answer truthfully. Don’t you remember Mona?”
+
+“Oh, there is Mona again! Don’t you see that only proves your own
+madness? No, I don’t remember Mona, and you don’t either.”
+
+“I must say,” returned the doctor, “I never expected to see you get over
+your infatuation so quickly.”
+
+“What direction did my infatuation, as you call it, take?”
+
+“Marriage, I should say.”
+
+“Now you interest me,” I returned, “and you must tell me more. Is
+this Mona of yours the sole resident of the moon, of whom you spoke to
+Thorwald?”
+
+“Certainly she is, but you surely must be out of your head to call her
+my Mona--I want no stronger proof.”
+
+“How so?” I asked.
+
+“Why, because but yesterday you scarce wanted to have me speak to her.
+You tried to keep your jealousy from me, but there was not room enough
+in all the moon to hide it.”
+
+“This is very laughable,” I exclaimed.
+
+“You did not think so then. But let me try to bring it all back to you
+by another question. Don’t you remember her voice?”
+
+“Most truly I do not. Why, what was the matter with her voice? Was
+it loud and harsh, or was it squeaky? I cannot imagine anything very
+pleasant in the way of a voice in such a wild and withered home as the
+moon would make.”
+
+“True,” answered the doctor, “as to the outside, but you forget our
+visit to the interior.”
+
+“There it is again,” said I. “Now, Doctor, the sooner you get rid of
+these strange notions the better So tell me your recollections of our
+stay in the moon, and I will let you know where you are wrong.”
+
+“Very well. You remember, of course, when we found ourselves rushing
+away from the earth so swiftly.”
+
+“Yes, and then we remained shut up in the car day after day, more dead
+than alive I think, until, fortunately, we were spilled out upon this
+more favored globe.”
+
+“You seem to be sincere,” said the doctor, “but if you are, then you
+forget the most interesting part of our experience. Just as we were
+about to be overwhelmed with our troubles we heard exquisite music,
+which we soon found proceeded from a lovely maiden. You fell desperately
+in love with her at first sight and never recovered till you were
+plunged in the ocean of Mars. You insisted on following her nod, and she
+led us at once through a narrow path down into the center of the moon.
+Here, in her quiet home, we taught her to sing in our language--her only
+speech was song--and the first words she used were to say she loved me.
+She did not understand what the words meant, of course, but you looked
+as if you wished I had been blown away before Mona had discovered us.
+After that I helped you in your wooing all I could, but although your
+passion increased every day your suit did not seem to prosper. One day I
+expressed the wish that I had some of the things we had left in the car,
+whereupon she led us out to the surface again, where we arrived just in
+time to be thrown upon this planet. Here we are, you and I, all safe,
+but where is poor Mona?”
+
+“I am sure it would take a wise man to answer that question,” I replied.
+“And now let me show you, Doctor, how wrong you are. If you will only
+try to exercise a little of that good judgment for which you are noted,
+you will be convinced that this is only a pretty little fairy tale which
+has somehow taken possession of a corner of your brain. Now that the
+fairy is gone you must try to forget the rest. Just think how unlikely
+the whole story is. Think of a delicate girl living in such surroundings
+as we found there; and then, how could we exist down in the center of
+the moon?”
+
+“Why, don’t you remember Mona told us the water and atmosphere had
+all run down there, making it the only habitable part of the decaying
+globe?”
+
+“Oh, that’s only one of your scientific notions, probably as true as the
+others that we have disproved. Too much science has turned your head,
+and I will prove it to you again by showing you how impossible is
+the part which I play in your romance. I will tell you now, what you
+doubtless do not know, that I am engaged to be married to the best woman
+in all the earth, excepting your own good wife, of course.”
+
+“Is that a fact?” asked the doctor. “And do you love her?”
+
+“To be sure I do. I love her very dearly, and if I ever see her again I
+shall tell her so in a manner to make her understand it.”
+
+“Why, doesn’t she understand it now?”
+
+“Yes, I think so, but she thought I didn’t show heart enough in my
+wooing.”
+
+“Well, if she could see you with Mona she would learn that you have
+plenty of heart when the right one appears to make it spring into life.”
+
+“You speak as if you thought I did not love Margaret. You do not know
+her. Why, I wouldn’t once look at another woman anywhere, not even in
+Mars, and most certainly not in that puckered-up old world that we have
+just left, happily for us.”
+
+“Do you know what I think about you?” asked the doctor.
+
+“No.”
+
+“I think you have an exceedingly poor memory. First, you forgot Margaret
+as soon as the voice of that fair singer fell on your ear, and now you
+have forgotten the singer again the moment we have lost her. I await
+with much interest your first introduction to a daughter of Mars.”
+
+“You will be disappointed,” said I, “if you think I shall be more than
+civil to her.”
+
+“If she be handsome and can turn a tune moderately well, I shall be
+willing to wager a fair young planet against the moon that you will
+propose to her in a week.”
+
+“I have done nothing to give you so poor an opinion of me. It is only
+your own diseased imagination, and I do not seem to be curing it very
+fast. I suppose, because your mind is naturally so strong, it is the
+more difficult to destroy such an hallucination as has taken possession
+of you.”
+
+“I would give it up,” said the doctor. “The story is all true, and not
+a work of my imagination. Isn’t it more reasonable to believe that you
+could forget the circumstances I have related than that I could invent
+such a tale?”
+
+“Oh, I never could forget it if I had been false to Margaret. You do not
+know me. If your vagaries had taken any other direction I might possibly
+be brought to think you were right.”
+
+By this time we both began to realize that the conversation was not
+proving a great success in the way we had hoped, and so, after some
+pleasant words and a hearty laugh over the situation, we found our
+way to the deck again. Here there were various things to attract our
+attention, different members of the crew being eager to show us about.
+The doctor asked some question in regard to the system of steering the
+vessel, and when one of the men had taken him back toward the stern to
+explain the point, I found Thorwald and quietly explained to him the
+mental condition of my companion.
+
+“The doctor is all right,” I said, “on every subject but one. His head
+must have been injured a little in his fall, and he imagines and asserts
+with positiveness that we found a young woman in the moon, the last of
+her race--a ridiculous idea, is it not?”
+
+“And did you find any inhabitants at all?” asked Thorwald.
+
+“Certainly not. No one could live in such a place. It is indeed
+marvelous how we existed long enough to get here. The doctor calls this
+creature of his brain Mona, says she was a great beauty, and plainly
+intimates that I was rather too attentive to her. You will see what a
+convincing proof this is of his unsound condition when I tell you I am
+engaged to the best woman on the earth, and so of course could not show
+any marked preference for another. I have told you about the doctor
+so that you may pass over unnoticed any allusion he makes to these
+subjects.”
+
+Thorwald thanked me and said he would be careful not to embarrass us in
+the matter. And so I flattered myself that in the future Thorwald and
+I would sympathize with each other in commiserating the doctor. But I
+afterward learned that the doctor, about this time, had also sought an
+interview with Thorwald and had confided the following secret to him:
+
+“My friend,” said he, “is a fine young fellow, but his head must have
+been injured in his fall. He has entirely forgotten the best of our
+experience in the moon. Queer, too, for he fell in love with the only
+and last inhabitant of that globe, a beautiful, sweet-voiced maiden
+named Mona, who never talked but she sang.”
+
+Thorwald then made the doctor tell him the whole story, and at the close
+he promised he would not pay much attention to anything I might say on
+the subject in future conversation.
+
+So it was quite a puzzle to Thorwald to tell which of his visitors from
+the earth was of unsettled mind and which in his normal condition. He
+decided to hold the question open and wait for further evidence.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IX.
+
+THORWALD AS A PROPHET.
+
+
+As maybe supposed, the doctor and I were anxious to hear more about
+Mars, and it was not long before we were all seated together again, when
+Thorwald resumed his instructive talk.
+
+“What further can I tell you of our condition and achievements? Every
+science has made mighty progress in bestowing its own benefit upon us.
+New arts have been discovered in the course of our development, about
+which you would understand nothing. The aim and result of all science
+have been to add to our comfort and happiness--our true happiness, which
+consists in improvement and the constant uplifting of character. The
+evils that once vexed our world, both those occasioned by natural
+phenomena and those brought about by our own ignorance and sin, have, as
+you have heard, almost completely disappeared. Even mental troubles are
+gone, and no corroding care destroys our peace, for there is nothing
+for us to dread; no dark future, filled with unknown evils, awaits our
+unwilling feet, and no superstitious or unnatural fear disturbs the
+peaceful quiet of our sleep.”
+
+“And are we to understand, Thorwald,” I asked, “that you believe all
+this rest from trouble and wrongdoing is coming to the earth, too?”
+
+“Before replying directly to your question,” answered Thorwald, “let
+me ask you if there is any tendency in that direction. Look back to
+the earliest days of your history and compare the state of things then
+existing with that of your own times. Has your world made any progress?
+Is there any less violence? Are men learning to live without fighting?
+Are the dark corners of the earth coming to the light?”
+
+“In these and many other directions,” I answered, “I think we can see
+improvement.”
+
+“Then,” continued Thorwald, “it seems to me you must believe with me
+that your world will one day come to the condition in which you find us.
+Have not your holy prophets foretold a time of universal peace both for
+man and beast, a time when a higher law than selfishness shall govern
+all hearts and the earth be filled with the spirit of love?”
+
+“They have,” I replied, “but most of us are so engrossed in the struggle
+for existence that we think lightly or not at all of such things.
+These prophecies have never impressed me as they do now when I see your
+condition, and reflect that similar words may have been spoken and then
+fulfilled here.”
+
+“Let me assure you,” Thorwald made haste to say, “that the earth is
+still young. I can see by all you say that your age is one of unusual
+vitality and progress. A firm faith that victory will come and that
+the golden age is before you will be a great help in your struggle with
+evil. Lay hold of that faith. It is yours. It needs no prophet to tell
+you that your race will one day reach our blessed state. First will
+come the spirit of peace, and as I am sure war must be repugnant to such
+minds as yours, you will readily learn to put it away from you. Then
+will begin to cease all bitterness between man and man, and you will be
+started on the road that leads to brotherly kindness. A world of sorrows
+will fall away with the passing of individual and national strife, not
+only the horror of the battlefield and the misery that follows it, but
+also the more secret and world-wide unhappiness that comes from the
+petty conflicts over the so-called rights of person and property.
+Selfishness, that monstrous source of evil, must be dethroned, and then
+the rights of each will be cared for by all. This will usher in for you
+a new era.
+
+“And now, when the mighty energy that has been expended in learning and
+practicing the science of war, the skill that has been given to the art
+of killing, the treasures of money and blood, the time, the brain
+and the activities that have been employed in carrying out plans of
+aggression, large and small, of neighbor against neighbor--when these
+have all been turned toward the betterment of your condition and the
+salvation of men from degradation and sin, then will the arts of peace
+flourish and your day begin. Then will nature herself come to your
+assistance, molding her laws to your convenience and comfort. It will
+doubtless be a long time before a man can love and consider his neighbor
+as himself, and before all of God’s creatures on your planet can dwell
+together in perfect peace, but, believe me, the earth will live to see
+that time.”
+
+“Thorwald,” spoke the doctor, “your words are so inspiring that I almost
+wish my life could have waited some thousands of years for that bright
+day you so confidently promise for the earth, but I cannot help asking
+myself if it is altogether a misfortune to live in the midst of the
+conflict, with something ahead to strive for. Will you pardon my
+presumption if I ask you practically the same question? You have told us
+of your wonderful history and that you have now reached a condition of
+peace and quiet. With no sickness or sorrow in your lives, with no evil
+passions to rise and throw you, with nothing to fear from without or
+within, yours must be a blissful condition. But still, is there always
+content? In our imperfect state we are striving and learning. Our
+happiness largely consists in the pursuit of happiness. If, some day,
+we should find all difficulties removed, no obstacles left to contend
+against, no evil in ourselves or others to overcome, not even our bodily
+wants to provide for, it seems to me life would lose its zest and become
+a burden hardly worth the carrying. Can you remove this unhandsome
+doubt?”
+
+“I will try,” answered Thorwald. “I suppose if the people of the
+earth, with their present capacities and aspirations, should be brought
+suddenly to such a state of civilization as ours, it would be as you
+say. As your development continues, your minds and souls will expand and
+you will be prepared to take up new duties and occupations as they
+come. I cannot tell you what these are, for at present you would not
+understand me. You mistake if you think we have ceased to learn. The
+mind is ever reaching forward to new attainments, and the things which
+chiefly occupy us now would have been beyond our comprehension in our
+earlier days. Can you not find an illustration on the earth? Suppose
+the untutored savage were suddenly required to throw away his spear and
+arrow and engage in your pursuits, Doctor. Would he be happy? Your
+mind is full of thoughts that he cannot grasp, your life is made up of
+experiences and aspirations of which he has no conception. You can see
+your superiority to the savage. Let me help you to look forward and see
+your inferiority to the coming man, who, I assure you, will never tire
+of life while anything that God has made remains to be studied. As
+the mind expands, new wonders and new beauties in creation will unfold
+themselves and your race will learn to look back with pity upon your
+present age, with its mean and trivial occupations.”
+
+“But, Thorwald,” I asked, “can you not tell us something of these higher
+pursuits?”
+
+“But very little,” he answered. “I might give you one or two hints
+of some things which I think lie nearest you, if indeed you have not
+already begun to consider them. I need hardly speak of astronomy, which,
+from the nature of the case, is the earliest of all sciences wherever
+there is intelligent life to view the works of creation. You will find
+great profit in advancing in this study as rapidly as possible. We have
+not yet ceased to pursue it, and I think it is one branch of knowledge
+which will never be exhausted, in the present life at least. Our
+achievements in astronomy have been marvelous.
+
+“Do not neglect to look in the other direction also for evidences of
+God’s power and wisdom. The microscope will almost keep pace with the
+telescope in revealing the wonders of creation. It will greatly assist
+you in many of your higher employments.
+
+“One thing that you will doubtless soon undertake is the study of the
+speech of animals, which will go hand in hand with the development of
+their intelligence. Both of these will claim much attention, but very
+inadequate results will be obtained until after you have tamed and
+domesticated the various species. You will want to discover how far
+animals can be educated and whether their intelligence can ever be
+developed into mind. As you progress in this study you will feel the
+necessity of understanding their conversation and you will learn what
+you can of their language. These tasks will seem of more importance to
+you when the lower animals are all reclaimed and become the companions
+and friends of man. You will try to discover the particular purpose for
+which each species was created, and you will even be led to inquire, by
+a long series of experiments, whether they possess the faintest shadow
+of moral perceptions.
+
+“Then there is the great subject of plant life. Does the sensitiveness
+of plants ever amount to sensibility or feeling? If so, is it a feeling
+you are bound to respect? That is, should a wounded and bleeding tree
+excite in you even the slightest shade of that sympathy you feel with
+a distressed animal? These are inquiries which you doubtless think of
+little moment now, but we have spent many years pursuing them.
+
+“These are only a few faint indications of the multitude of questions
+which lie before you for study. In every investigation which you follow,
+whether connected with the mysteries of your own complex being or with
+the unexplored depths of creation around you, a chief source of interest
+will be the constant discovery of a perfect adaptation in the works
+of God. Of course you know something of it already, but you will never
+cease to wonder at the unfolding of this truth, as you come to realize
+more and more fully that creation is one, and is moved and ruled by one
+intelligence.
+
+“Oh, do not imagine that in the ages to come there will be nothing
+to make life interesting. As your civilization advances and you are
+released gradually from trouble and care, and from those petty affairs
+which now so occupy you, your minds and souls will grow, and you will
+see far more ahead of you worth striving for than you now do. Your
+happiness can still consist largely in the pursuit of happiness.”
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER X
+
+MORE WORLDS THAN TWO.
+
+
+It was now so late in the day that further conversation was postponed,
+and after a plain but exceedingly enjoyable supper we were shown
+to luxurious rooms, where we spent our first night in Mars in great
+comfort.
+
+In the morning Thorwald told us we would reach our port in a few hours,
+and so we sat down as early as we could after breakfast for a short
+talk.
+
+The doctor furnished the text by opening the conversation with this
+remark:
+
+“It is wonderful to think we should find on this planet a race of people
+so advanced, when so little thought is given, on the earth, to the idea
+of life in other worlds.”
+
+“What has been the general opinion among you on that subject?” asked
+Thorwald.
+
+“The subject has not had standing enough to call forth much opinion,”
+ the doctor answered. “There is an almost universal indifference in
+regard to the matter. I think the common notion is that the earth is
+about all there is in the universe worth considering.”
+
+“But what are your own views, Doctor?”
+
+“I have been one of those,” he replied, “who believed the notion of
+life outside the earth to be a beautiful theory without one shred of
+scientific basis. We knew the earth was inhabited and the moon was not,
+and there we stopped. We did not know, and thought we never could know,
+anything that could be called evidence pointing to the existence of
+life in the other planets or elsewhere, and we held that there was no
+advantage in speculation. We thought it unwise to spend much time or
+thought on a subject about which we could know nothing. On coming here
+and finding you I have learned that Mars is inhabited, but I do not know
+any more about the other planets or stars.”
+
+“Does not the mere knowledge that there are two life-bearing bodies lead
+you to believe that there are more, among the vast numbers of worlds
+which you have not visited?”
+
+“I don’t see why it should. How can we believe anything without
+evidence? No one has ever come to us from those distant globes, and they
+are too far away for us to see what is taking place on their surface.”
+
+“It seems strange, Doctor, to hear you reason in that way, but I suppose
+some of our race were just as narrow, if you will pardon me for using
+that word, as you are, before our wonderful successes in astronomy. I
+believe you have not properly considered the subject, for it seems to me
+you had knowledge enough, before you left the earth, to justify you in
+holding to a strong probability of life beyond your own globe.
+
+“Let us see what some of that knowledge is. You know, to begin with,
+that one world is inhabited. Then if you should find other bodies as
+large as the earth and bearing any resemblance to it, there would be no
+improbability in the thought that they or some of them were filled with
+life. The improbability is certainly taken away by the knowledge that
+one such body, the earth, is inhabited.
+
+“You start, then, without prejudice, on a voyage of discovery, aided by
+your telescope and your reasoning faculties.
+
+“First you find, within distances that you can easily measure, a small
+group of dark bodies, which you have called planets, all apparently
+governed by a common law, in obedience to which they are circling around
+a large body of quite different character, which gives them light and
+heat. Of these dark bodies, which shine in the sky only by reflected
+light, the earth is one, and, you are surprised to find, not the most
+important one, judging from all you can discover. Some of the others are
+much larger and are attended by more satellites. In fact, the earth is
+indistinguishable in this little group. While it is not the largest,
+neither is it the smallest. It is not the farthest from the sun nor the
+nearest to it. It is merely one among the number. And how much alike
+the members of this family are. Your telescopes do not point out any
+material differences, although each has its individual characteristics.
+Let us enumerate some of the many points of resemblance. They all turn
+on themselves as well as revolve around the sun. All see the night
+follow the day, and in most of them there must occur the regular
+succession of seasons. To each one the sun is the source of light and
+heat, many of them have moons, and all can see the stars. Nor does
+the resemblance stop here. For you have discovered that one has an
+atmosphere, another is surrounded with clouds, while on the surface of
+our own globe you see the polar snows increase in winter and melt away
+in summer. Is it not probable that if you could get nearer to these
+globes you would find still closer resemblances? And if they are like
+the earth in so many ways, is it at all unlikely that they may, at some
+period of their existence, be the abode of intelligent life? For what
+other purpose were they made, Doctor?”
+
+“They make very pretty objects for us to look at,” replied my companion.
+
+“Yes, those that can be seen,” said Thorwald; “but is that all? Were
+those great worlds, some of them hundreds of times larger than your own
+globe, created merely to add a little variety to your sky, and to give
+you the pleasant task of watching their movements under the pretty title
+of morning and evening star?”
+
+“Speaking from the knowledge I had when I left the earth,” the doctor
+answered, “I can say I never heard that they were put to any other use.
+No one ever came down to us from any of them to tell us they were
+inhabited.”
+
+“And do you think,” asked Thorwald, “that the myriads of stars were also
+made simply to delight the eye of man?”
+
+“How do I know that they were not?” the doctor asked in reply.
+
+“Because of the absolute unreasonableness of the thought, if for no
+other reason,” answered Thorwald. “But now let me recall to your mind
+more of the knowledge possessed by the inhabitants of the earth. I
+think I know about what that knowledge is, from my acquaintance with
+the present state of your development. Astronomy has been our master
+science, and I can remember fairly well the extent of our knowledge
+when we had reached your stage. If I should fall into the error of
+attributing to you more than you have already discovered you can easily
+correct me.
+
+“If, now, you leave the little group of dark bodies which are so like
+the earth, and go out still further into space, what do you find?
+At distances so great that only the speed of light can be used as a
+measuring line, you discover vast numbers of self-luminous bodies, which
+you call stars. Your natural eye can tell but a small fraction of
+their number. For example, look at the constellation you have named the
+Pleiades and you see six or seven stars. View it through a three-inch
+telescope and you can count perhaps three hundred. Now attach a
+photographic plate to the telescope, and with an exposure of four hours
+the light coming from that small patch of sky falls upon the sensitive
+film with a cumulative effect until you have a picture of more than two
+thousand three hundred stars.”
+
+“Yes,” broke in the doctor, “you are gauging correctly the state of our
+knowledge. Our largest telescopes reveal in the entire sky, it is said,
+one hundred million stars.”
+
+“Then,” answered Thorwald, “if the glories of the heavens were made
+merely to delight the eye of man, why was not the eye created of
+sufficient power to behold them? As it is, only a small proportion of
+the stars can be seen without the aid of instruments too costly and too
+delicate for general use.
+
+“But have you the means of establishing any likeness between the
+earth and those distant bodies? You have discovered that the law of
+gravitation is universal and that the motions of the stars resemble
+those of the solar system. Have you made any discoveries tending to
+prove the existence of other systems like our own?”
+
+“Yes,” replied the doctor, “our recent investigations of the periods of
+some of the variable stars show irregularities in brightness, period,
+and proper motion. A close study of these irregularities has convinced
+some of our astronomers that there are invisible bodies near them,
+evidently planets circling around a central sun. The theory is that the
+dark bodies cause slight perturbations in the star, which account for
+the irregularities in period, motion, etc. So Neptune was discovered
+by the effect it had upon the observed movements of Uranus. This is the
+first evidence we have had tending to prove that there are other groups
+of worlds like ours, and it is considered quite significant.”
+
+“I can readily believe it,” said Thorwald, “and I know how helpful every
+bit of evidence is, in your search for knowledge. But if I mistake not
+you have the aid of another instrument, which is destined to play an
+important part in your future studies. You get much nearer those distant
+orbs when a spectroscope is placed at the end of the telescope, and
+the ray of light coming from sun and star is widened out into a band
+of color, which tells a marvelous story. That light, that has been for
+years, and perhaps for centuries, on its way to you, now discloses the
+very nature of the substances which compose those fiery globes. And what
+are those substances? It must have been a startling truth to the man
+who first read from the spectrum of the star he was studying, that it
+contained matter with which he was familiar, materials of which the
+earth itself is made. By this science you have learned beyond doubt that
+many of the commonest elements of the earth’s crust exist also in other
+worlds, and, what is of great significance, that the materials most
+closely connected with living organisms on the earth, such as hydrogen,
+sodium, magnesium, and iron, are the very ones which are found most
+widely diffused among the stars. I think I am not wrong in assuming that
+you are somewhat acquainted with the spectroscope and have made these
+discoveries.”
+
+“You are quite right,” said the doctor. “This branch of scientific
+investigation has already been carried so far with us, and the results
+of the experiments are so constant and uniform, that when it is
+asserted, for example, that such and such a metal is present in a state
+of vapor in the sun’s atmosphere, it is estimated that the chances in
+favor of the correctness of the assertion are as 300,000,000 to 1.”
+
+“You are helping my argument, Doctor,” resumed Thorwald. “But now let
+me call your attention to another field of inquiry, in our search for
+evidence to establish a likeness between the earth and the other parts
+of the universe. You told me, a while ago, that you have the fall of
+meteorites on your globe. Have you considered the striking evidence they
+bring you? Let us imagine we have a meteoric fragment here. Take it in
+your hand and think of it a moment. You have few things on your earth as
+interesting as this piece of metallic stone. What a world of questions
+it starts! What is its composition? Whence comes it? Once it was in
+existence, but not here. Where, then, was its home? Out, out in the
+depths of space, where burning suns roll and comets have their dwelling
+place. The stars have fallen indeed, and here is one of the pieces.
+Before it came to us as a messenger from the sky did it have an
+independent existence, or is it a fragment of a shattered world? How
+long has it been whirling in its unknown orbit, and what story has it
+for us from its distant birthplace? If we can discover whence meteorites
+come, and of what they are composed, I think you will agree with me that
+they furnish valuable testimony in our inquiry. You have no doubt had
+many theories as to their origin.”
+
+I was just about to make answer to this implied question, when Thorwald
+rose and eagerly scanned the horizon. After a moment he exclaimed:
+
+“We shall have to break off our conversation for a time, as we are
+nearing our port. I knew by other means that land must soon appear, and
+now I can see it.”
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XI
+
+MARS AS IT IS.
+
+
+The doctor and I looked in the direction indicated and speedily realized
+that the superiority of the dwellers on Mars extended to the sense of
+sight, for we could see nothing. But we were sailing so swiftly that the
+shore we were approaching was before very long brought within our vision
+also, and among the alert crew, who were now preparing to bring the
+vessel into its harbor, there could be none so interested in what was to
+come as the doctor and myself. We were to see what had been accomplished
+by a race of whose perfections we had been hearing so much.
+
+As we effected a landing and walked up the streets of the city, we were
+not nearly so much impressed with the size and beauty of the buildings
+and the appearance of the people as we were by the spirit of absolute
+peace and quiet which prevailed. With perfect skill, and without noise
+or bustle, the ship was brought to its dock and the crew went ashore.
+The screams and calls, the rattle of vehicles and the babel of sounds we
+had been accustomed to on such occasions, were all missing. The silence
+and order were almost oppressive because they were so strange. But there
+was no lack of activity among the immense creatures who thronged around
+us. Everyone was busy, knowing apparently just what to do without
+direction from others, and just the best way to do it. Beings with lungs
+powerful enough to wake the mountain echoes went about with mild and
+tuneful voices, and, though each one seemed possessed of a giant’s
+strength, no severe labor was required of any.
+
+The streets and walks were paved with a soft material, yielding slightly
+to pressure, but so firm and tough that it showed no sign of wear, an
+ideal pavement, over which the wheels rolled as noiselessly as they
+would over a velvet carpet. It was, moreover, laid in beautiful patterns
+of the most varied colors. The vehicles, of which there were many kinds
+for different uses, were so faultlessly made that they moved with the
+utmost quiet and apparent ease, the power that propelled them being
+invisible. There were no tracks or wires, but all were guided in any
+direction and with any speed at the pleasure of the riders.
+
+Thorwald led me from the vessel, and another stalwart son of Mars took
+charge of the doctor. After walking a few steps up the street we all
+stepped into an empty carriage without saying as much as “by your
+leave,” Thorwald touched a button, and we were off.
+
+“This,” said Thorwald, “is one of the best illustrations of the manner
+in which we are applying electricity. You saw them also unloading the
+heavy freight from the boat by the same power. So all our work is done.
+No fleshly limb is strained, no conscious life is burdened, by any
+of the labor of our complex society. This subtle force is so well
+controlled and its laws are so thoroughly understood that it is equal to
+every demand.”
+
+“I am entranced, Thorwald,” said the doctor, “with everything I see. But
+I would like to ask if you own this comfortable carriage and had it sent
+to the wharf to meet you.”
+
+“I own it,” our friend replied, “just as I own the street we are riding
+over or the house I live in. I own this or any other vehicle whenever
+I desire to use it. You saw a great number of carriages near the wharf,
+and there are several over on that corner. Anyone is at perfect liberty
+to appropriate one to his own use at any time, and when he is through he
+merely leaves it at a convenient place by the roadside for some one else
+to take.”
+
+“I should think they would be stolen,” said I.
+
+Thorwald laughed at my ignorance and answered: “Why, who is there to
+steal when everybody, either friend or stranger, can use them as often
+and as long as he likes?”
+
+The talk promised to grow more interesting still, but now our attention
+was turned to the delightful scene through which we were passing. It
+will be utterly impossible to describe the beauty of the landscape,
+where nature and art seemed to be striving to outdo each other. Before
+reaching land I had imagined that the houses, if they were to be
+proportioned to the inhabitants, must pierce the sky. But we were
+surprised to find that they were all comparatively low, of not more
+than two or three stories. And all, even those near the wharf, were
+surrounded with ample grounds. Some of the houses were larger than
+others, some more ornate than their neighbors, and the architecture
+varied as much as the size and arrangement of the grounds. But all were
+beautiful beyond description. One thing that appeared very strange to us
+was that the prevailing color of the vegetation was red, although
+that shade did not predominate as much as green does on the earth. For
+instance, after we had admired a stretch of lawn brilliant as a crimson
+sky, we would come to another which would surprise and please us with a
+lovely shade of blue. Still another was green, and then one glowed with
+a variety of colors, whose combination showed a most refined taste. As
+with the grass, so it was with the foliage of the trees. The richest
+tints of our autumnal forests were here present in permanence, but with
+a much greater wealth of coloring. Flowers, too, of every hue and form
+were to be seen on all sides, and their appearance was so perfectly
+natural that if they had been set with design then the art itself had
+concealed the art of their arrangement.
+
+With all this mass of color there were no unpleasant contrasts, no
+discordant tones. As, amid the bustle of the landing place, our ears had
+not been shocked with rude noises, so now we received through our eyes
+only a delightful sense of quiet beauty.
+
+Riding, now slowly and now more rapidly, through such a scene, we could
+think of nothing better to question our friend about, so the doctor
+found his voice and said:
+
+“This far surpasses our anticipations, Thorwald, and I am sure this
+place must be exceptional, even on Mars. I suppose it is a resort where
+some of your wealthy people have built themselves homes in which to
+enjoy their leisure months.”
+
+“Nothing of the kind,” replied Thorwald. “These people live here all
+the year, they are not wealthy, and there is nothing to distinguish this
+city above others.”
+
+“Why, this seems more like a private park than a city. Where are your
+crowded streets and houses for the poor?”
+
+“After all I have told you of our high civilization, Doctor, do you not
+understand that we have long since abolished poverty?”
+
+“Yes,” answered the doctor, “I understand that in a general way; but I
+did not suppose everybody was rich, as it is certain everybody must be
+to own such palaces as these.”
+
+“You are still wrong,” said Thorwald. “We have no such distinctions as
+rich and poor. All our cities are of this character, only there is great
+variety in the residences and in the way in which the streets and lots
+are laid out. These places that we are passing are inferior to many,
+but no houses are built that are at all mean or uncomfortable. Indeed,
+I think we have to-day passed some of the poorest that I know of. As
+to the word city, we use it only as a convenient expression. It really
+means nothing more than a certain locality, for, as I told you at the
+beginning of our conversation, we have no need of government of any
+kind. In some sections one city runs into another, so that the whole
+country is filled with the beauty and delight of the landscape which you
+see about you.”
+
+“But,” asked the doctor, “with the population spread out in this
+marvelous way, is there room for everybody?”
+
+“Oh, yes,” answered Thorwald. “All the surface of our planet is brought
+into use; the waste places are reclaimed, and there is abundant room for
+all. And now, as this pleasant air and easy motion seem to be agreeable
+to you, we may as well ride slowly for a while longer.
+
+“In your intercourse with us you will find it is never necessary for us
+to hurry when, for any good reason, we choose to loiter, and, therefore,
+if you care to hear me talk, I will take the time to correct another
+wrong impression you seem to have.
+
+“You spoke, Doctor, about the people owning these houses. No one owns
+them.”
+
+“Do they belong to the state?” asked the doctor.
+
+“There is no state.”
+
+“Well, this is a curious condition of affairs,” resumed the doctor.
+“Here is valuable property belonging to no one and no government
+to claim it. I should think anyone that happened along could take
+possession.”
+
+“Now you are right,” said Thorwald. “That is just the state of the case.
+It is with houses and all other property as I told you it was with this
+carriage. All the right one has to any object is the right to use it.
+Everything that has been produced by art and skill is just as free as
+the bounties of nature, such as air and water and land, which of course
+no one would ever dream of subjecting to private ownership.”
+
+The doctor winced as he heard Thorwald include land among these free
+bounties of nature, and the expression of his face did not escape the
+quick eye of the Martian, who exclaimed:
+
+“So you earth-dwellers are still in the habit of buying and selling
+land, are you?”
+
+“That was the practice when we left home,” replied the doctor. “And I
+cannot understand how we can do differently. Your views of property are
+so strange to us that I am sure my companion will join me in asking you
+to explain them more fully.”
+
+“I certainly do,” I said.
+
+“Property,” began Thorwald, “we do not have, but we have many of the
+rights of proprietorship in the things we use from time to time. And
+what other benefit than the free use of what we need could be derived
+from the possession of things? Suppose I, for example, owned a thousand
+acres of land and a hundred fine mansions. I could cultivate but a small
+part of the land and occupy but one house at a time, and of what value
+would the remainder be?”
+
+“Would not such palaces as these on this beautiful street bring a good
+rent?” I inquired.
+
+“Don’t be stupid,” replied Thorwald good-naturedly. “You must know
+by this time that we are not a race of self-seekers, each one taking
+advantage of the necessity of his neighbor. But I suppose it is
+difficult for you to appreciate a state of society in which each
+individual considers the feelings and needs of others as much as his
+own. With us this principle is not preached any more, but it is actually
+practiced in all our affairs.”
+
+“I will try to keep that in mind,” I said, “although it is a fact I can
+hardly realize. But about this matter of houses I want to make another
+inquiry. After you have become established in a beautiful home to which
+you have no more right than anyone else, what is to prevent some other
+man (I use the word for convenience) coming forward and asking you to
+give it up to him?”
+
+“Nothing,” answered Thorwald. “In such a case I should immediately move
+out and let him have it, knowing he must be entirely unselfish in the
+matter and that there must be some sufficient reason for the request.”
+
+“But would you go to all the trouble of moving without even knowing his
+reason?”
+
+“Yes, I would do it to accommodate him, but then the trouble would be
+nothing. We would merely have to go out and take another house.”
+
+“But would you not have to move all the furniture?”
+
+“Oh, no. We could take anything we pleased, of course, but it is not
+usual to make radical changes. Another house would contain all that was
+desirable. As a matter of fact, however, such removals are by no means
+frequent. We usually remain in one place and acquire all the tender
+associations of home which could be possible under any system. But if
+a family should increase so that it would be better for them to take a
+larger house, they could easily find one, or if not they would ask those
+who are fond of that work to build one to their taste. The moment a
+thing is made or produced it belongs to the general store, to be used by
+any and all who need it.”
+
+“Under such conditions,” said I, “what we call the eighth commandment
+would be superfluous.”
+
+“If that refers to theft,” answered Thorwald, “you are certainly right,
+for it is impossible to steal where everything is free.
+
+“It will be well for you to understand how happily we have solved this
+question of property, but of course we could not have found such a
+solution until we had first reached a high spiritual plane and learned
+the lesson of true brotherhood. From your words I know just about the
+point in our development which corresponds with the present state of
+your race, and therefore I know something of the nature of the struggle
+through which the earth is now passing. I warn you that the unrestricted
+right of private ownership is a menace to your civilization, all the
+greater because its evil is probably not clearly seen. We are assured
+by our historians, who try to point out the causes for all the great
+convulsions in our career, that excessive individualism in property
+rights, with its selfish disregard of others, was a potent factor in the
+downfall of many of the enlightened nations of our antiquity. We have
+noticed that even our animals have the instinct of possession, and it is
+certain that the love of ownership and accumulation has been one of the
+hardest evils to eradicate from our naturally selfish nature. If you
+should ever return to the earth, do not neglect to signal for this
+danger.”
+
+“But what is the remedy?” asked the doctor. “The system of which you
+have been speaking might be called the mainspring of our society. I can
+hardly imagine what we should be without it. With our note of warning,
+what message of help will you send?”
+
+“Doctor,” answered Thorwald, “it pleases me to hear you ask that
+question, and I am rejoiced also that I have so good an answer for you.
+The remedy is to be found in the law of love. Follow that law as closely
+as possible. The way will be hard, the progress slow, but every step
+taken will be a solid advance. It is the only safe road, and you will
+find that every other will lead to disappointment and disaster.”
+
+Whenever Thorwald struck these high spiritual themes he spoke with such
+enthusiasm and positiveness that our respect for him increased rapidly.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XII.
+
+WE REACH THORWALD’S HOME.
+
+
+All this time we had been riding leisurely along, enraptured with the
+delightful country, while the way itself and the estates on either hand
+offered such variety of landscape that the view never became tiresome
+nor uninteresting.
+
+But as the day was waning, our friends quickened the pace and showed us
+a burst of speed. This was most exhilarating, and soon brought us to
+the station where Thorwald told us we were to take an express train for
+home, which was about two hundred miles distant.
+
+When we alighted we left our carriage by the roadside among many others,
+and entered an immense building. Both inside and out there were plenty
+of people moving around, but without noise or unpleasant bustle. With no
+delay, and also with no haste, we entered what appeared to be a smaller
+apartment opening out of the general waiting-room. It had the appearance
+of an elegant drawing-room, the rich but comfortable-looking furniture
+being disposed in a careless manner, which helped to make us feel at
+home, if anything could bring us that sensation. There was a door at
+each end of the room, and soon these were closed and we felt an almost
+imperceptible jar. The doctor glanced hastily at Thorwald and said:
+
+“Can it be possible that we are to travel in this apartment?”
+
+“Yes,” answered Thorwald, “this is our modern traveling coach, and
+we are already on our way to the city in which my friend here and I
+reside.”
+
+This latter fact surprised us, for we could not perceive by our senses
+that we were in motion. But as we sat wondering and trying to imagine
+ourselves flying through space, the doors opened, a pleasant breeze
+fanned our cheeks, and the doors closed again, we felt that slight jar
+repeated, and then we were quiet once more. This occurred every two or
+three minutes, and, remembering what Thorwald had previously told us, we
+realized that we were riding in a perfectly tight car in a vacuum tube
+and that these short but frequent stops were to keep us supplied with
+fresh air.
+
+Thorwald explained this to us again, and told us that the coaches were
+of different sizes to accommodate large or small parties, and that one
+could ride alone if he chose to. The cars started so frequently that it
+was seldom necessary to wait more than a few minutes. The doctor thought
+there must be great liability to accident, but Thorwald said:
+
+“No, we do not consider the risk worth taking into account. Let me
+illustrate with a familiar example. Suppose you had just seen a cable
+tested with a ton’s weight without a strain. Should you fear to take
+hold of the cable and lift yourself from the ground lest it might break
+and you should fall? The mechanism of this road is just as sure as that.
+The force that is driving us forward is no longer mysterious. The laws
+of electricity are well defined, and its mighty power is under perfect
+control. Nothing is left to chance, and the result is that there have
+been no accidents for many, many years, and practically speaking there
+cannot be any.”
+
+When we first entered the coach we noticed that there were no windows,
+and as the doors had no glass we wondered why it was not dark. The light
+was good broad daylight, exactly like that which fills a room when there
+are good windows, but where the direct rays of the sun do not enter;
+and, as we could see no lamps nor fixtures, we could not understand how
+the illumination could be artificial. But such it was. We carried
+an electric battery with us, and the lamps were out of sight, and so
+arranged that they gave us only reflected light. The system was so
+perfect that the imitation sunlight was just as good as the real, as far
+as we could discover.
+
+“This is the way we light all our interiors,” said Thorwald, “and of
+course the apparatus is so governed that we can have any amount of
+illumination we please, little or much.”
+
+The doctor was about to ask some question in relation to this practical
+improvement, when he was stopped by hearing a little silver-toned bell
+ring. In an instant the doors opened, and Thorwald rose and announced
+that we had reached the end of our journey. We could not have been in
+the car more than fifteen minutes, and the doctor and I supposed our
+ride of two hundred miles had just begun.
+
+“Well, if you travel at this rate,” said the doctor, “I do not wonder
+you have obliterated all national boundaries, for the ends of the world
+are right at your doors. And now, Thorwald, I would like to see the
+great tube through which we have been carried so swiftly.”
+
+Thorwald smiled a little and led the way through another superb
+waiting-room out into the open air. Here the doctor looked in all
+directions, but could see nothing of the object for which he was
+searching.
+
+“You have seen all any of us can see,” said Thorwald.
+
+“We merely step into the comfortable car, sit a few minutes, step out
+again, and go home. In the meantime we have been carried under ground
+and under water, across valleys and through hills, but the way itself,
+the tube through which the car flies, is entirely hidden from sight.
+Where it is above ground, trees and shrubbery screen it from view, so
+that it does not mar the landscape. We think much of this, and should
+regret exceedingly if it became necessary for any such utilitarian
+object to interfere with our aesthetic enjoyment of nature.”
+
+Thorwald’s friend now took leave of us, expressing the hope that
+he would soon see us again. He had taken some little part in our
+conversation, but had left the burden of it to Thorwald, who was older,
+and who was, moreover, our first acquaintance.
+
+It seemed singular to the doctor and me that we had attracted so little
+attention among the people whom we had encountered since leaving the
+ship. To give the reason for this, which we afterwards discovered, is
+to reveal one of the pleasantest peculiarities of the Martian
+character--that is, the entire absence of a disagreeable curiosity. Our
+dress and appearance and the rather novel circumstances connected with
+our arrival on the planet, which must quickly have become known,
+were certainly calculated to excite their interest, and in a similar
+situation on the earth there is no telling what might have happened to
+us from a curious mob. But here all was order and quiet. Everybody went
+about his own business and treated our party with additional respect,
+it seemed, because some of us were strangers. We found out later how
+anxious all these people were to learn everything about us, but they
+were content to wait till the knowledge should come to them in a proper
+way.
+
+Thorwald now selected a light, pretty carriage, and after a brisk ride
+through another charming avenue and up a steep hill, we alighted at the
+door of a noble mansion whose majestic proportions were in harmony
+with the wide, open plateau upon which it stood alone. Upon entering,
+Thorwald was at once affectionately greeted by his wife, and while he
+was introducing us as natives of another world his son and daughter came
+bounding toward him from an adjacent room.
+
+These were quite small children, but in a few moments Thorwald brought
+in from another part of the house a young woman of about my age,
+apparently, and introduced her as a neighbor. It needed but a glance to
+tell us that she was beautiful as a dream, and she moved about with that
+exquisite grace which comes only from the highest culture. She spoke
+to us with such ease and naturalness that we were at once relieved from
+whatever embarrassment the circumstances might easily occasion.
+
+“Antonia is our very dear friend,” said Thorwald, “and, although she
+hides her curiosity so well, you will find her an exceedingly interested
+listener to your history and adventures.”
+
+“Yes,” said the charming voice of Antonia, “Thorwald has told me just
+enough about you to make me want to know more. Your moon, which is so
+much larger than our little satellites, caused a great sensation when it
+was seen coming toward us so rapidly. The situation was well calculated
+to cause us anxiety, if we had been subject to such a feeling, but, as
+usual with us at the present day, it has turned out to our advantage;
+for it has given us two such worthy representatives of a neighboring
+race.”
+
+“I am sure,” I answered, “that the advantage is greatly on our side.”
+
+I could not say more, for I was conscious that the doctor was watching
+closely to see how I was affected by the presence of this royal girl.
+When he saw I was inclined to be somewhat quiet he felt impelled to say
+something, and offered the following compromising remark:
+
+“If we had only brought Mona safely off the moon with us, you would have
+had something more worthy of your interest than we are, and my friend
+here also would now be in better spirits.”
+
+Antonia had a question in her eyes but her perfect breeding kept her
+from putting it into words, after the final expression of the doctor’s
+speech. Of course, I could not ignore the allusion, and said:
+
+“Mona is a friend of the doctor’s whom I have not the pleasure of
+knowing. I suppose he thinks her cheerful disposition, of which I have
+heard before, would make our present situation even more enjoyable than
+it is. Speaking for myself, however, I think that would be impossible.”
+
+With that she rose, and, with a pleasant word of adieu to us, told
+Thorwald she would come in another day after we were well rested.
+
+It was now approaching night-fall and dinner was to be speedily
+announced. The doctor and I were shown to a suite of dressing-rooms, and
+as soon as we were alone he said:
+
+“Do you think Antonia is as handsome as Mona?”
+
+“If you will show me Mona I shall then be able to judge. But how did
+I carry myself on my first introduction to a daughter of Mars? Do
+you think I am in any danger of putting her in Margaret’s place in my
+heart?”
+
+“Perhaps not,” replied the doctor. “You kept command of yourself
+pretty well; but I think the secret of that is that you have not quite
+forgotten Mona.”
+
+“Excuse my frankness, Doctor, but I must tell you I am getting a little
+tired of Mona. I wish I might never hear her name again. If I can resist
+the charms of such an exquisite bundle of perfections as Antonia is,
+do you think I am likely to be overcome by a mocking-bird of your
+imagination?”
+
+“If you could only hear the voice of that bird once more,” replied the
+doctor, “you would soon begin to sing another tune. But let us go down
+if you are ready, and not keep them waiting.”
+
+We had looked forward with much interest to our first meal in one of
+these sumptuous houses, and, moreover, being quite hungry, we were glad
+to find that we were just in time to sit down. If we had felt any
+fear lest the absence of meat would make a meager bill of fare, the
+experience of the next hour relieved us. The dishes were all strange,
+but highly palatable, and the fact that there was nothing that appeared
+to be in the least unwholesome did not detract from the delicious
+savor which every viand possessed. The rich variety of courses and the
+elegance of the service made it a dinner long to be remembered, and gave
+a new zest to our life on Mars.
+
+It had been a long day to us, and we were allowed to retire at an early
+hour, being conducted to adjacent and communicating rooms. But, though
+our fatigue was great, it is not strange that we lay awake awhile,
+talking of the wonderful things we had seen and heard. Speaking of the
+Martian method of rapid transit the doctor said:
+
+“Besides its expedition, there is another feature to recommend their way
+of traveling.”
+
+“What is that?”
+
+“Why, there is no danger of getting a seat just behind a window fiend.”
+
+“There is something in that,” I answered, “but I am thinking just now
+of our dinner. We must certainly learn how to cook eggs and vegetables
+before we return to the earth.”
+
+The character of our conversation, judged from these scraps, shows that
+we had no excuse for remaining awake any longer.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIII.
+
+A MORNING TALK.
+
+
+Next morning we arose early, but found the family already up. Thorwald
+seemed disposed to lose no time in showing and telling us everything
+interesting, and so invited us at once to the top of the house, to take
+a view of the country. The sun was just rising, and its pleasant rays
+lighted up a scene of surpassing beauty. We seemed to be set in the
+middle of a vast park, whose boundaries extended in all directions as
+far as we could see. The landscape presented the most varied character,
+wood and water, hill and plain, and every feature needed to make a
+most delightful picture. Not the least of its charms, and perhaps
+the greatest, was the profusion of color, which filled the vision and
+satisfied the sense of beauty with its contrasts and its harmonies. Some
+of the hills might justly be called mountains, and yet on the rugged
+sides as well as on the summit of each were grand mansions surrounded by
+cultivated fields.
+
+The doctor made some remark about this latter fact, and Thorwald said:
+
+“These situations, which would be almost inaccessible without the aid
+of electricity, are now the favorite sites for building. This wonderful
+power levels all hills in the ease with which it does its work. No task
+is too hard for it and it asks no sympathy, so we may as well ride and
+carry our freight up hill, if we prefer it, and build our houses on the
+mountain tops. One characteristic of our nature has not changed, and
+there is still a great variety of taste, so that plenty of people choose
+the lower land to build upon. I see by your faces that you both admire
+this panorama and think we were wise to place our house on such high
+ground. We like to have our friends take this view in the morning, when
+the world has been freshened by the night’s rain.”
+
+“Is it not just as beautiful at sunset after a shower?” I asked.
+
+“Oh,” answered Thorwald, “I haven’t told you that it never rains in the
+day-time, have I?”
+
+“No, indeed, that’s another surprise for us. But how is it managed?”
+
+“You will remember I told you,” said Thorwald in reply, “that it was
+found that rain enough fell for all parts of the world if it could only
+be rightly distributed. Then when we had discovered by a long series of
+experiments how to make the clouds shed their water at our pleasure, we
+set about devising a means whereby we could give each section the right
+quantity of rain at just the right time.
+
+“We established a central bureau in each country and let the people in
+every city or district vote and send in their request for a shower or
+a long rain ten days in advance. At first it required only a majority
+vote, but this occasioned no end of trouble, as half the community would
+often believe they were suffering for want of rain when the other
+half wanted fair weather. Then the rule was changed so as to make a
+three-quarters vote necessary, which did not help matters much, for very
+often the crops would be seriously damaged before so large a proportion
+of the people could be brought to see the desirability of a rainy day.
+
+“At length the happy thought was conceived of letting it rain over each
+part of the country every night, and giving the right to vote only on
+the quantity desired. This keeps everything fresh and has been found of
+immense benefit to vegetation. Besides, it inconveniences no one, in the
+present state of our society, however it might have been when the plan
+was first adopted.”
+
+“What of those people,” I asked, “whose occupation or pleasure calls
+them out in the night?”
+
+“We have no such class,” replied Thorwald. “We have found by long
+experience that it is best to follow the indication of nature, and
+take the day for labor and the night for rest. This practice and the
+attention devoted to our diet have been chief factors in lengthening the
+span of our lives. If this line of action is best for one it is best for
+all, and, as everybody is doing the best he can, it follows that there
+are literally no people out at night.”
+
+“I suppose you would call me stupid again,” said I, “if I should ask if
+you have any such old-time personages as guardians of the peace.”
+
+“Indeed I should,” answered our friend, “for you ought to know us
+better. If you will excuse a poor witticism, the peace is old enough on
+our planet to go without a guardian.”
+
+As we smiled at this the doctor was encouraged to try his hand, but, not
+feeling equal to addressing a pleasantry to the usually august Martian,
+he turned to me and remarked:
+
+“This would be a pretty poor place for an umbrella trust, wouldn’t it?”
+
+As we left our place of outlook and made our way down stairs, Thorwald
+resumed:
+
+“As I have said before, we have reached our present happy condition
+through many bitter experiences. We read that at one time people had so
+much work to do and were so thoughtless as to what was good for their
+physical welfare that they began to rob themselves of their proper rest.
+Others found it convenient to follow occupations which obliged them to
+work all night and get what sleep they could in the day-time. Night was
+considered about the only time that could be utilized, also, for the
+activities of social life.
+
+“This condition lasted a long time, with the tendency continually
+toward the practice of encroaching more and more upon the hours of rest
+appointed by nature. It was then the period of making many laws, and
+large and influential legislative bodies began to set a bad example to
+the rest of the world by holding their sessions mainly in the night.
+Newspapers thought it necessary to appear full-fledged at the break of
+day, and the railroads made but little distinction between darkness and
+daylight in the matter of carrying people hither and thither. The change
+was slow, but it was in the wrong direction. Darkness was driven out by
+more improved methods of lighting, and houses and streets were brilliant
+the whole night long; and it finally became the fashion in both society
+and business circles literally to turn night into day. For a time that
+remained the universal custom, strange as it seems to us now, but the
+practice of sleeping in the day-time never became natural. This means
+that the whole world was living on from year to year without the amount
+of rest required to keep the race alive. There could be but one result.
+A brood of nervous troubles fell upon us; life began to shorten, and
+we became aware that a serious crisis was before us. As soon as we were
+convinced that we were bringing all this evil upon ourselves by our
+disregard of the laws of nature, there was a change; and it is well
+for us that there was still virility enough left in the race to make a
+change possible. A gradual reform was instituted which, overcoming many
+difficulties and delays but with no serious set-backs, brought us, after
+long years, to our present happy way. Of course, our improvement in
+every other direction, moral as well as physical, assisted us all along
+in this reform. Now, looking back on our course, and comparing our
+present with our former state, we are perfectly sure what is best for
+us, and he would be a rash man who should intimate that we are not doing
+right in using the night for rest.
+
+“But this is getting to be quite a long talk for so early in the
+morning. Let us see if breakfast is not ready.”
+
+This meal proved to be as appetizing as the first, although the dishes
+were entirely different; being made up, apparently, of fruit and
+cereals.
+
+The doctor and I had been exceedingly interested in the way the dinner
+of the evening before had been served. We did not understand it, and now
+we were equally puzzled to see the breakfast courses come and go. No one
+came in to make any change in the table, and our hostess seemed to
+have as little to do with it as the rest of us. She presided with great
+dignity, and, as I watched the changes going on with such perfect ease
+and quiet, I could not refrain from saying:
+
+“If it is proper for me to ask, will you tell us how this is done, Mrs.
+----”
+
+“We do not use those titles now,” she interrupted. “Call me Zenith, the
+name by which I was introduced to you. I suppose Thorwald has told you
+that electricity does nearly all our work. I arrange things in order
+before the meal begins, and then by merely touching a button under
+the table the apparatus is set in motion which brings and takes away
+everything in the manner you see.”
+
+“It is wonderful,” I exclaimed. “And if we are to believe all that
+Thorwald has told us, I suppose you have no servants for any department
+of work.”
+
+“You are not entirely right,” she returned. “We have excellent servants.
+This obedient power, that does our work so willingly, is our servant,
+and so is the mechanism with which our houses are filled, and through
+which this silent force is exerted. Many of our animals are domesticated
+and trained to do light services, but as for servants of our own flesh
+and blood, no such class exists. We all share whatever work there is,
+and no labor is menial. Whatever I ask others to do I am glad to do for
+them when occasion offers. Do not suppose we are idle. There is work for
+us, but with our abundant strength and continual good health it is never
+a burden. Then there are the duties connected with our higher life and
+education, for we are ever seeking to fit ourselves for a still better
+existence than this.”
+
+We had now finished breakfast and were walking through the house.
+Zenith was a beautiful woman, although, from our point of view, of such
+generous proportions. She possessed the perfect form and the vigor and
+health of all the Martians. She was, moreover, graceful, modest, and
+winning. But Thorwald and the other men that we had seen possessed these
+latter qualities also, and Zenith exhibited the same strength of mind
+and the same devotion to lofty aims as her husband. In their equipment
+for the duties of life and in the ability to do valiant service for
+their kind they seemed equal. Evidently neither had a monopoly of any
+class of advantages, either of mind, body, or estate.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIV.
+
+PROCTOR SHOWS US THE EARTH.
+
+
+We discovered at once that the Mars dwellers understand what genuine
+hospitality is, for we found ourselves at perfect liberty to do what
+best pleased us without restraint from our hosts. With so much to tell
+us of their own high civilization and with so many questions still to
+ask about the earth, there was no haste nor undue curiosity. Much less
+was there any attempt yet by Thorwald to resume the argument about the
+habitability of other worlds.
+
+But at the same time we were aware that our friends were at our service,
+and early in the afternoon Thorwald asked us if we could think of
+anything we should like to see.
+
+“Yes,” I answered, “I should like to see the earth.”
+
+“No doubt, my friend, but I don’t see exactly how I am going to take you
+there.”
+
+“I did not expect that,” said I; “but, after all you have hinted about
+your advance in astronomical science, I thought you might give us a
+pretty good view of the earth without going any nearer to it than we are
+now.”
+
+“Oh, that’s what you mean, is it? Excuse me for being so dull. Is it not
+singular that I should wait to be asked to show you the wonders of our
+telescopes? Zenith, let us all go with them to see their home, about
+which we have so often speculated.
+
+“We have many good observatories,” continued Thorwald, speaking to the
+doctor and me, “some of which are noted for one line of study and some
+for another. The one that has given the most attention to observing the
+earth and that has the best instruments for that work is situated on the
+other side of our planet.”
+
+“Then, of course,” said I, “we will choose one nearer home for our
+visit.”
+
+“Why so?” asked Thorwald. “It is always wise to get the best when you
+can.”
+
+“Yes, but we do not want you to take the time and trouble to make a
+journey half around your world just because I said I would like to see
+the earth.”
+
+“Oh, our time is yours, and we will not make trouble of it; we will call
+it a pleasure trip. We may as well take the children, Zenith; they will
+enjoy it. How soon can you all be ready?”
+
+“In five minutes,” answered Zenith.
+
+“Then we had better get off at once,” said Thorwald.
+
+And without further words this remarkable family scattered to different
+parts of the house and in five minutes were ready to begin a journey of
+five or six thousand miles, and the only reason they did not start at
+once was that the doctor and I were not quite so expeditious. We were
+soon on our way, however, having locked no doors behind us and leaving
+everything just as if we were to return in an hour.
+
+We took an electric carriage to the station, and from there went by the
+tubular road to the metropolis. This was a great city whence there was
+direct communication to all the principal centers of population on the
+planet. As we had not been in any haste in making the changes necessary
+to reach this stage of our journey, it was now late in the day, and I
+began to wonder how we were to continue the trip without being out
+in the night. When I mentioned my thought to Thorwald, he removed the
+difficulty in a moment by saying:
+
+“We simply travel west and leave the night behind us. You know the
+surface of Mars, even at the equator, goes east at the rate of only five
+hundred miles an hour, and as our modern cars take us much faster than
+that, it is easy for us to keep ahead of the night by going in the right
+direction. So in making long trips we try to travel west.”
+
+“But suppose you want to go east?”
+
+“Then we go west to get east, and we arrange the speed so as to get to
+our destination in the day-time.”
+
+We left our car and found another just ready to start for the distant
+city in which our observatory was situated. It was a small car
+comparatively, and we had it all to ourselves. There were all sorts of
+conveniences in it, and we composed ourselves for a good rest. After a
+ride of several hours we reached our destination. It was now about noon,
+so that we had actually made nearly half a day, besides the time spent
+in sleep while riding. I know some of my friends on the earth, who say
+the day is too short for them, would appreciate such an improvement as
+that if they could have it.
+
+We passed part of the afternoon in riding about the city. The same
+language was spoken here as was used on Thorwald’s side of the globe;
+but, although communication was so easy, we found enough difference in
+the architecture and in the general appearance of the people to make
+travel interesting.
+
+Toward night we all alighted at the door of the observatory, and the
+doctor and I had the pleasure of making the acquaintance of a man of
+Mars who had spent many years in studying the surface of the earth. It
+may be imagined that he was glad to meet us and to get our answers to
+many questions which had long perplexed him, some of which he had never
+hoped to have solved.
+
+Proctor, for this was the name by which he was introduced, was one of
+the oldest men we had seen, and impressed us as one possessed of great
+wisdom. His manner was so dignified, also, that it seemed quite as
+inappropriate to address him without a title as it was to call our
+hostess plain Zenith. But when I asked Thorwald aside what I should call
+him, he said:
+
+“Call him by his name, just as you do the rest of us. We have but one
+name each.”
+
+“I should think that would be confusing,” said I. “For example, how are
+you to be distinguished from any other Thorwald?”
+
+“There is no other that I ever heard of. There are names enough to go
+all around.”
+
+As night came on we were brought face to face with the great instrument
+whose work of observing the earth was known far and wide.
+
+Proctor was occupied a short time in adjusting it, and then asked us if
+we could recognize what was in the field. I motioned to the doctor, but
+as he insisted that I should take the first view I put my eye to the
+glass with much trepidation. Instead of the magnified disk of the earth,
+which I expected to behold, I saw but a small portion of the surface,
+and that a familiar stretch of coast line. I never knew whether Proctor
+thought by our accent or by the cut of our clothes that we were New
+Englanders, but he had so pointed the telescope that our first sight
+of the earth showed us dear old Massachusetts Bay, with its islands and
+boundaries. I did not speak till the doctor had looked, and then we told
+the others of our pleasant surprise.
+
+Proctor made another adjustment, saying he would bring the globe still
+nearer to us, and we looked and saw a patch of beautiful green country.
+It appeared to be but a few miles away, and we thought we ought to
+distinguish large objects. But the appearance was deceptive in this
+respect, and Proctor told us they had not been able to determine
+definitely whether the earth was inhabited. They could see important
+changes going on from time to time; they believed they could tell
+cultivated from wild land; certain peculiar spots they called large
+cities; and there were many such indications of inhabitants. But they
+had not yet beheld man nor his unquestioned footsteps. As to their
+belief on the subject, they had the strongest faith that the earth was
+peopled by an intelligent race, and Proctor added that he rejoiced to
+see that faith so happily justified by our presence. To which the doctor
+pleasantly replied that he should be sorry to have him judge of the
+intelligence of the race at large from two such inferior specimens.
+
+One question which Proctor asked was, whether we had ever made any
+attempt to communicate with the other planets. We told him we had not,
+but that if we should ever try such a thing it would probably be with
+Mars; but that it would be useless to think of it with our present
+astronomical attainments, for if we should succeed in attracting the
+attention of another world we would not know it, because we could not
+see the answer.
+
+Proctor said they had sometimes seen moving masses which were not
+clouds, but which they took for smoke and were not sure but they might
+be intended for signals. We replied that if it were smoke that they saw
+it was probably caused by forest fires, but if we ever reached the earth
+again we would organize a company and try to make some electric signals
+which they could see.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XV.
+
+A NIGHT ADVENTURE
+
+
+It was late when the conversation closed, and Proctor said we were to
+spend the night with him of course, and in the morning he would take
+pleasure in introducing to us the other members of his household.
+
+The residence buildings, beautiful and commodious structures, adjoined
+the observatory, and to each of us was given a separate apartment. After
+Proctor had left us, Thorwald came into my room a moment and I said to
+him:
+
+“Proctor is a friend of yours, is he not?”
+
+“Certainly,” answered Thorwald, “what could he be but a friend? But then
+I never saw him before today.”
+
+“Is it possible? Are strangers always treated so hospitably?”
+
+“I see nothing unusual in his treatment of us. We are always at
+perfect liberty to stay where ever night overtakes us, and it makes no
+difference with the quality of the hospitality whether the guests are
+acquaintances or not.”
+
+The memory of that night will remain with me many years. Before falling
+asleep I let my mind dwell on the singular circumstances in which we
+were placed and the strange manner of our leaving the earth. I had never
+experienced anything that seemed more real, and yet I could not make it
+appear quite reasonable that we were in truth living on the planet Mars.
+All I could say was that it was an instance where the facts were against
+the theory, and I knew that in such cases it was always safest to
+believe in the facts. I could distinctly remember each step of our
+journey, and there could be no mistake about our present understanding.
+What settled the question more firmly than ever was this thought: If we
+were not on Mars, where were we? We must be somewhere.
+
+By the time I had disposed of all my doubts I was becoming drowsy, and
+then I began to think of the doctor and his unfortunate condition of
+mind. This malady would doubtless increase and I should have to look
+out for him, and at the same time fill the arduous position of the only
+sound representative of our race in Mars. I resolved to try once more to
+make my companion see how ridiculous his strange fancy was and realize
+the danger of clinging to it.
+
+With this thought my brain lost coherence, and I passed over the
+invisible boundary into dreamland. It was a beautiful evening in summer.
+I was at home among my friends and we were sitting in the open air. The
+doctor was there, taking his turn with me in telling the story of our
+adventures. This went on till our listeners were tired out, and then
+one of the company gave a little variety to the occasion by singing a
+capital song.
+
+Here the scene changed to the country. It was morning in the woods. The
+trees wore their spring foliage, bright flowers spread their beauty and
+fragrance around us, and the air was filled with the music of birds. The
+sweet notes of these songsters were by far the most vivid part of the
+dream. Now loud, now soft, the unbroken melody absorbed our attention
+and made it difficult for us to understand how our situation again
+gradually changed, until the air became piercingly cold, the cruel wind
+beat upon us furiously, and the violent elements seemed bent upon our
+destruction.
+
+The doctor and I were alone, and the surroundings bore a strange
+resemblance to the inhospitable surface of the moon. But what are those
+sweet sounds still ringing in our ears? Sure no birds could live in
+such a wild place. No, it is not a bird’s song. It is more like a human
+voice. I thought I had never before heard music so pure and rich. But
+wait--had I not heard something like it once before? There was a mystery
+about it that enhanced its sweetness. Now I was really thinking, for
+before I knew how it happened I found myself wide awake. The dream was
+over, but, oh! wonderful dream, the best of it remained. My sense of
+hearing, always acute, had waked long before and left my other faculties
+to slumber on and dream out the unreal accompaniments of a real voice.
+For now, with my eyes open and my mind released from sleep, I still
+heard that marvelous, half-familiar song.
+
+Could I be deceived? I determined to know beyond a doubt that I was
+awake. I rose and, throwing on a dressing gown, turned up the light and
+walked about the room. I looked in the mirror to see if my eyes were
+open, and then ate a little fruit from a tempting dish that stood on the
+table. In one corner of the room was an elegant writing desk. I opened
+it, found its appointments complete, drew up a comfortable chair, and,
+choosing pen and paper, determined to record my impressions for future
+perusal, if by any means my memory should fail me. This is what I wrote:
+
+“I, the undersigned, am in my private room in the house of Proctor, the
+astronomer, province of ----, planet Mars. It is about the middle of
+the night, precise date unknown. I am wide awake, in my usual health,
+appetite good, heart a little fluttering but temperature and pulse
+normal. I have been awakened from sleep by strains of distant music,
+which mingled with my dreams but refused to be silenced when the rest
+of the dreams melted away. Now, while I am writing, the delicious melody
+fills my ears. I never before heard so sweet a voice, unless, indeed,
+I have heard the same voice before. In regard to this I can form no
+present opinion. I must take another time to consider it. Now I cannot
+think, I am so engrossed in listening to the singer’s entrancing notes.
+The song is so full of light and cheer and sends such beautiful thoughts
+trooping through my brain that I wish it may go on forever.”
+
+I signed my name to this with a firm hand, and then, as I leaned back
+in my chair to close my eyes and drink in more deeply still this rare
+enjoyment, darkness seemed to fall suddenly upon my spirit. The voice
+ceased, and in a moment the last sweet echoes had died away.
+
+I crept into bed as speedily as possible, to try to forget my sadness
+in sleep. But oblivion would not be forced, and so I took what comfort
+I could in thinking of that interrupted song, and in trying to feel over
+again in memory that pleasure which my fleshly ears no longer gave me. I
+could still recognize a distinct tinge of familiarity in the notes, but
+when I came to the question of locating the singer I was utterly without
+a clew. I knew well enough that there was no earthly voice which could
+enter into the comparison, and so I need waste no time in going over
+that part of my life. But I had heard no singing of any kind in Mars
+before this night. How was it possible that I could have experienced
+that delightful sensation before and not be able to fix the place or
+time? It was a puzzling question, but I refused to give it up I knew the
+song, and the memory of it warmed my heart with each recurring flash,
+but the singer I did not know.
+
+At length I fell asleep, and woke to find the sun of Mars shining
+pleasantly upon my bed. I recalled at once the experience of the night
+and confirmed my memory by finding on the desk the paper I had written,
+and still there was enough suspicion in my mind of the reality of the
+whole thing to make me anxious to know if the doctor had heard what had
+so impressed me. But on going to find him I discovered that he had left
+his room, and so it happened that we did not meet till the family came
+together in the morning reception room, in preparation for breakfast.
+Here Proctor presented us to his wife, Fronda, and his daughters, two
+stately girls, whom he did not name. Thorwald and Zenith kindly helped
+the doctor and me to answer the many questions which these new friends
+were so eager to ask, so that, as breakfast proceeded, all became
+engaged in the conversation. My own mind, however, was somewhat
+preoccupied. I thought perhaps Thorwald might be in haste to depart for
+home, and I was determined not to let the company separate till I had
+made an attempt to discover who my midnight singer was. So, when there
+came a convenient lull in the talk, I made bold to say:
+
+“Can anyone present tell me who it was that woke me in the night ‘with
+concord of sweet sounds’?”
+
+A general smile passed around the table at this question, while Fronda
+looked at me and said pleasantly,
+
+“It must have been Avis. She is very fond of singing and considers all
+hours her own. I hope it did not disturb your slumbers.”
+
+“It was no disturbance, I assure you. But is Avis present? I should like
+to thank her for the great pleasure she gave me.”
+
+“No,” replied Fronda, “she took an early breakfast and started out for a
+long walk.”
+
+“Then I may as well tell you all about it,” I said.
+
+And I related my dream and then read to them all the paper I had
+written. Everyone listened with the greatest eagerness and showed more
+interest, I thought, than the circumstances as I had related them called
+for, but I afterwards learned that they had excellent reasons for it.
+
+When breakfast was over I was glad to find that Thorwald seemed to be in
+no haste to go home. I began to feel an intense longing to see Avis, and
+I had planned, if Thorwald should insist on leaving too soon, to
+propose to Proctor that I would stay a few days and assist him in the
+observatory.
+
+The doctor and I soon found an opportunity to speak together privately,
+and he began:
+
+“So the voice of Avis was a little familiar to you?”
+
+“Yes,” I replied, “but I am not able to tell from what niche in memory’s
+hall it comes.”
+
+“Does it recall anything you heard or saw on the moon?”
+
+“That dreadful place? No, indeed,” I replied. “Are you going to bring up
+Mona again?”
+
+“You asked me never to mention that name again, and now you have spoken
+it.”
+
+“Well,” I asked, “will you forgive me for that foolish request if I will
+let you talk to me about her now?”
+
+“I am not anxious to talk about her,” the doctor answered, “especially
+as I know the topic is not a pleasant one to you.”
+
+Without noticing this last remark, I asked abruptly:
+
+“Was Mona a good singer?”
+
+“Fair.”
+
+“As good as Avis?”
+
+“I think so, though I am not a critic.”
+
+“Did I understand you to say she was handsome?”
+
+“Beautiful.”
+
+“And I fell in love with her?”
+
+“You had all the symptoms. But why do you insist on talking on such a
+disagreeable subject? Come, let’s go and find Proctor.”
+
+“Wait. One question more. Have you seen Avis?”
+
+“Yes.”
+
+“Who is she?”
+
+“I believe she is a friend of the family merely.”
+
+“Does she live here?”
+
+“She is staying here for the present.”
+
+“Is she beautiful, too?”
+
+“I shall leave you to be your own judge of that when you see her. Now,
+not another question.”
+
+“Well,” I said, as we started to find some of the others, “if the Mona
+of your imagination gives you as much pleasure as Avis has given me
+before I have seen her, I do not wonder that you cherish her memory.”
+
+This conversation left me still more anxious to see Avis, and I looked
+for her return every moment, but the morning passed and finally the day
+wore to its close without bringing us together. I did not like to make
+my strong desire known by asking after her, and, besides, I began to
+have a slight suspicion that there was some design in keeping us from
+meeting.
+
+When it was time to retire that night I took the doctor to my room, and
+I think it was a surprise to both of us when we fell to talking about
+Mona again. At my request the doctor related at considerable length our
+experience on the moon, as he remembered it, and set Mona out in most
+attractive style. I let him go on, without laughing at him as I had
+formerly done, and the longer he talked the more serious and thoughtful
+I became. As he told the details of our daily life, recalling many of
+Mona’s words and actions, a new thought flashed through my mind--the
+thought that possibly the doctor was right after all. At that instant,
+when my interest was most intense, once more the distant echoes of that
+happy song fell upon my ear.
+
+That was the magic influence needed for my restoration. At once, and all
+at once, down fell the walls that had so unhappily obscured my mental
+vision, and left my memory clear as day. I jumped from my seat, seized
+the doctor’s hand, and exclaimed:
+
+“I see it all now, old fellow. You were right and I was the crazy one.”
+
+“Good, I rejoice with you.”
+
+With that voice coming nearer and pouring its melody upon us, we could
+not say more at the time. I threw myself into a chair, let my head
+fall back, and closed my eyes to enjoy it. The doctor, feeling it to be
+better to let me think it out by myself, stole away and left me alone.
+
+Alone, but not lonesome, for was not Mona with me? I could see her every
+look and motion, and experienced with a great throb of the heart that my
+love had only strengthened with my period of forgetfulness. I remembered
+her last words, that very likely we would never see her again. But why
+should not she be saved as easily as we were? What if she were even now
+afloat in the ocean? But perhaps some one had rescued her. Could she
+be in Mars and singing for other ears than mine? Singing! Why, who is
+singing now, right here in this very house? Can it be possible? How
+stupid I have been. Perhaps I can see her now.
+
+I jumped up and rushed from the room, but was no sooner outside my door
+than the voice began to die again, and in a moment the last notes had
+floated away. I could not determine from which direction the song had
+come and had no clew to guide me toward the singer. It was very late and
+all the house was quiet. Unable to pursue my quest, I reentered my room,
+but it was hours before I could compose my mind sufficiently to sleep.
+The possible joy that awaited me in the morning, the dreadful fear
+that I should be disappointed, the violent beating of my heart at every
+thought of Mona, and my anxiety lest she might even now be exposed to
+danger somewhere, all combined to keep me excited and restless the whole
+night long. As I lay tossing and thinking, my most serious doubt was
+occasioned by the reflection that people of such exalted morals would
+not deceive me by declaring that this singer’s name was Avis if it were
+not true. But then I thought further that the doctor had given Mona the
+name by which we knew her, and that Fronda would have just as much right
+to give her a new name. Perhaps her real name after all was Avis.
+
+When the welcome morning came I found the doctor and gave him a hearty
+grasp to show him that there had been no lapse in my mental condition,
+but I asked him to say nothing to Thorwald just at present about my
+recovery. Then we hurried down to the reception room and, early as it
+was, found most of the household already there. After looking eagerly
+around and seeing only those whom I had previously met, I inquired, with
+as little apparent concern as possible:
+
+“Hasn’t Avis appeared? I thought she was an early riser.”
+
+To which Fronda quickly replied:
+
+“Oh, Avis was up half an hour ago, and asked me to excuse her to the
+company, saying she was going to spend the morning with a friend she met
+yesterday.”
+
+This was a hard blow for me, and it was with difficulty that I
+restrained my impatience, but I was a little consoled with the idea that
+the morning only was to be consumed by this visit, and that we might
+look for a return by noon.
+
+After breakfast, when Proctor had gone to the observatory and Fronda
+and her daughters were showing Zenith about the house, the doctor begged
+Thorwald to resume the talk begun on board the ship, which had
+been interrupted by the discovery of land. As Thorwald expressed a
+willingness to comply, the doctor continued:
+
+“You were trying to convince me of the probability of life in other
+worlds besides the earth and Mars, and in your attempt to show a
+likeness between the earth and other parts of the universe, you were
+speaking on the interesting subject of meteorites.”
+
+“I remember,” answered Thorwald, “I was just asking you what theory you
+of the earth hold on that important topic.”
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVI
+
+AN UNLIKELY STORY
+
+
+“If the doctor,” I said, “will pardon me, I will say, in relation to
+the origin of meteorites, that our scientific men have held from time
+to time many different theories. Some have believed that they are
+aggregations of metallic vapors which, meeting in the atmosphere,
+solidify there and fall, just as watery vapors solidify and come down in
+the form of hailstones. Others have held that they are thrown out from
+the center of the earth by volcanic action; and others still that they
+all came from the moon when her volcanoes were active. These latter
+theories imply that the meteorites in immense quantities are revolving
+around the earth, and that occasionally they become entangled in her
+atmosphere and fall to the surface.
+
+“And now, Thorwald, I am tempted to repay all your great kindness to us
+with an act of ingratitude, nothing less than the relation of a story.”
+
+This rather foolhardy speech of mine made the doctor wince, and I am not
+sure but he began to fear that my mind was weakening in a new direction.
+But I had my own excuse for my action, which I felt that I could explain
+to him at some future time. The fact is, I was so disturbed in my mind
+about Mona and was anticipating so much from meeting the so called Avis,
+that I thought I could never sit still all the morning and listen to a
+dry scientific discussion. It seemed to me that I could stand it better
+if I could do part of the talking myself, and so I took advantage of the
+subject before us to propose relating an extravagant tale that I once
+had heard.
+
+In contrast with the doctor’s frowns, Thorwald showed a lively
+appreciation and insisted that I should be heard.
+
+“Not another word from me,” he said, “till we have had the story.”
+
+With such encouragement, it was easy for me to proceed.
+
+“I fear you will be disappointed,” I said, “for what I have rashly
+called a story is only a fancy founded on the idea that the meteorites
+were at some time shot out of the volcanoes of the moon. I had it from a
+friend of mine, whose mind is evidently more open to the notion of life
+in other worlds than is that of my companion here. As the story was
+written long before the moon came down to visit the people of the
+earth in their own home, the writer did not have the advantage of the
+discoveries made by the doctor and myself, and it is well for me that
+the doctor’s friend, Mona, is not here to disprove any of my statements.
+
+“On account of the smaller volume of the moon, the attraction of
+gravitation on its surface is only one-quarter that of the earth, and it
+is estimated that, if a projectile were hurled from the moon with two or
+three times the velocity of a cannon ball, it would pass entirely beyond
+her attraction and be drawn to the earth, reaching it at the rate of
+some seven miles a second.
+
+“Now we all know--this is the way the story runs--that the moon was once
+inhabited by a highly intelligent race. They tell us it is a cold, dead
+world now, not at all fit for inhabitants. But that is because its day
+is passed. Being so much smaller than the earth it cooled off quicker,
+and its life-bearing period long since found its end. Men have often
+speculated on the idea that our race will one day fail and the time come
+when the last generation shall pass away and leave the earth a bare and
+ugly thing, to continue yet longer its lonely, weary journey around a
+failing sun. That day the moon has seen. That direful fate the race of
+moon men have experienced. Some poor being, the last of his kind, was
+left sole monarch of a dying world, and with the moon all before him
+where to choose, chose rather to die with the rest and leave his world
+to cold and darkness.
+
+“From our own experience we do not know how high a state of civilization
+can be reached by giving a race all the time that is needed. But we know
+that before the inhabitants of the moon passed off the stage they had
+attained to the highest possible degree of intelligence. They began
+existence at a very low plane, developed gradually through long periods
+of time--there has never been any haste in these matters--and when they
+had reached their maturity as a race of intellectual and moral beings,
+primitive man was just beginning on the vast undertaking of subduing the
+earth, a task not yet accomplished.
+
+“The incident I propose to relate occurred in antediluvian times, when
+there were giants in the earth who lived a thousand years. Then matter
+reigned, not mind. It was the age of brawn. Everything material existed
+on a gigantic scale, and man’s architectural works, rude in design but
+well adapted for shelter and protection, were proportioned to his own
+stature and rivaled the everlasting hills in size and solidity. And they
+needed something substantial for protection, for war was their business
+and their pass time. They lived for nothing but to fight. It was brother
+against brother, neighbor against neighbor, tribe against tribe; and the
+man who could not fight, and fight hard, had no excuse for living. War
+was not an art, but a natural outburst of brutal instincts. A giant
+glories in his strength and cultivates it as naturally as a bird its
+song. But it is pleasant to consider the fact that as man’s mental
+and moral qualities have developed his body has become smaller. As the
+necessity for that immense physical strength gradually passed away,
+nature, abhorring such unnecessary waste of material, applied to us her
+inexorable laws whereby a thing or a state of things no longer useful
+slowly fades away, and our bodies accommodated themselves to new
+conditions.
+
+“But in those early times men needed great physical strength and long
+life to bring the world into subjection, and until that was done they
+could give little attention to the cultivation of the finer qualities
+of their incipient manhood. They were handicapped by the fact that the
+lower animals had had the earth to themselves a few million years, more
+or less, and no puny race could ever have driven them to the wall.
+
+“At length, when the conflict was well nigh over, with victory in sight,
+men had abandoned the struggle and were using all their fierce strength
+in fighting each other. This had been going on so long and with such
+deadly results that it seemed as if the race must be exterminated unless
+some superior power could step in from the outside and prevent it.
+
+“We can easily understand that there was no such thing as science then.
+Men considered the sun, for example, only as a very useful thing which
+brought them light with which they could see their foe, and the moon as
+a mysterious object sent to make the night a little less dark. Sun
+and moon and shining stars were all set in the sky for them, and went
+through their wonderful and complicated movements solely for their
+amusement.
+
+“But what was the real condition of things on the moon at that
+time? Why, there was a race of people there of such intelligence and
+scientific attainments that they were seeing plainly enough everything
+that was taking place on the earth. This will not appear very strange
+when we consider our remarkable success in scanning the surface of the
+moon at the present day, and remember that the inhabitants of the moon
+were then nearing the close of their history, and so at the height of
+their civilization.
+
+“Yes, they had watched the coming of man upon the stage with the deepest
+interest--with a neighborly interest, in fact--seeing in him the promise
+of a companion race and one worthy of the magnificent globe which they
+could see was so much larger than their own. Their powerful instruments
+enabled them to see objects on the earth as distinctly as we now see
+through our telescopes the features of a landscape a few miles distant.
+
+“Keeping thus so close an acquaintance with man and all his works, they
+rejoiced at every success he achieved over the lower forms of life, and
+grieved at all his failures. Especially were they pained when he tired
+of the conflict with his natural foe, and began to battle with his own
+kind. As this inhuman strife continued, the folly and wickedness of
+it roused to the fullest extent the interest and sympathy of the
+moon-dwellers, and they began to ask each other what they could do to
+put a stop to it. They themselves had long since given up war and had
+even outgrown all individual quarrels, and they could not endure with
+patience what was then taking place right under their eyes. But
+they found it easier to declaim against the evil than to suggest any
+practical method of stopping it. Although so near them in one sense, to
+the other senses the field of conflict was some two hundred and forty
+thousand miles away.
+
+“However, of what value is a high state of civilization if it cannot
+help a neighboring world in such an emergency as this? If they could
+only communicate in some way with men they could soon make them
+understand that it would be better for them to cease their fighting and
+finish their legitimate work of subduing the lower forms of creation.
+But how to open communication! The problem long remained unsolved,
+the condition of things on the earth in the meantime growing worse and
+worse. At last it was suggested that a shot might be fired which would
+reach the earth. This was a bold suggestion, but it was well known that
+they had explosives powerful enough to carry a projectile beyond the
+moon’s attraction, and no one could give any good reason why such a
+projectile, being entirely free of the moon, should not reach the earth
+under the power of gravitation. It was determined to try the experiment,
+and after due preparation, which was comparatively easy with their
+facilities, an enormous shot was hurled forth. It was large enough to be
+seen by the aid of their powerful telescopes as it sped on its way,
+and it was with intense interest that they saw it enter the earth’s
+attraction and finally strike the surface of that globe. Now that so
+much had been accomplished, they saw immense possibilities before them.
+What they now wanted to do was to use their discovery to make men give
+up their fighting and turn to the arts of peace.
+
+“How could they do this? Some proposed that they should make hollow
+shot, fill them with Bibles and other books, and bombard the earth with
+good precepts till men should learn and be tamed. But from their close
+observation of mankind the moon-dwellers knew they were too uncivilized
+to get any good from books, and that they certainly could not learn
+without a teacher. Hence arose the suggestion that missionaries be
+sent in place of books. As soon as this idea was broached thousands of
+volunteers offered themselves, and the plan would certainly have been
+attempted if there had been the slightest possibility that one could
+live to reach the earth.
+
+“The next proposal came from the medical profession. Long before this
+time, when the inhabitants of the moon were sometimes governed by their
+passions and before the day of peace and good will had fully arrived, it
+had been discovered that what was known as the pugnacious instinct was
+only a disease, bad blood in fact as well as in name, and a remedy had
+been found for it. This was nothing less than the bi-chloride of comet.
+Small comets, such as we call meteorites, were picked up on the surface
+of the moon and put to this practical use. This medicine, administered
+as an hypodermic injection, produced wonderful effects, the patient,
+although afflicted with the most quarrelsome disposition, becoming as
+mild and harmless as a lamb. However warlike one might be, a few days’
+treatment would take the fighting spirit out of him so completely that
+the mere doubling up his fists and placing them in front of his face
+would make him feel ill. Peace societies got hold of the remedy and
+tried it on the soldiers of the standing armies with such success that
+war had to be abandoned because the men would not fight.
+
+“And now the old recipe was brought out, a large quantity of the
+medicine manufactured, and bombs made and filled with it, each one
+containing full directions for its use written in Volapiik. These were
+fired to the earth, and, strange to say, the simple language was soon
+learned, and the moon-dwellers had the satisfaction of seeing men
+rapidly metamorphosed into a peaceable, friendly race. Thus the moon
+directly influenced and governed affairs on the earth. Looked at from
+that distance it seems to have been the most remarkable case of the tail
+wagging the dog that the earth had ever seen.
+
+“But we may as well relate the sequel. The effect of the treatment
+lasted only a few hundred years, and as it was the moon’s policy never
+to repeat a cure, men in time became as bad as ever again, and so at
+last the flood had to come and wipe them off the face of the earth.”
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVII
+
+THE DOCTOR IS CONVINCED
+
+
+As I finished the doctor looked somewhat bored, but Thorwald was kind
+enough to thank me, and then, at our earnest solicitation, he resumed
+his argument.
+
+“You have told me,” he said, “of some of your earlier beliefs about the
+origin of meteorites. Have you any more modern views?”
+
+To this the doctor replied: “If my friend here has really finished
+talking for a while I will say, Thorwald, that the theories already
+spoken of seem to be disproved by the discovery that these stones enter
+the earth’s atmosphere with a planetary velocity. A body falling from
+an infinite distance--that is, impelled only by the attraction of
+gravitation--would strike the earth with a velocity of only six or
+seven miles a second, while the meteorites come at the rate of twenty
+to thirty miles a second, the earth’s rate of revolution being nineteen
+miles in the same time. It is found that a necessary consequence of
+these velocities is that the meteors move about the sun, and not
+the earth, as the controlling body. Our latest study points to the
+conclusion that they are of cometary origin, and, as comets have been
+known to divide, some scientists believe the meteorites are fragments
+of exploded comets. At any rate, they are found in the company of these
+mysterious bodies, and appear to have similarly eccentric orbits.”
+
+“Your studies are leading you in the right direction,” said Thorwald.
+“The meteorites do indeed come from the regions of space, and if they
+have any story to tell it is a story of those distant parts of the
+universe about which any testimony is valuable. Let us look again at the
+fragment we are supposed to hold in our hand. Can we tell of what it is
+composed, or is its substance something entirely new? I am sure you must
+have analyzed it down to its minutest particle, and if so you have found
+it contains nothing foreign to the earth. There is not a single element
+in the meteorite that does not exist also in the crust of the earth.
+Tell me, Doctor, how many elements have you discovered in them?”
+
+“Nearly thirty,” answered the doctor. “And one interesting fact is,
+that the three elements most common in the earth--iron, silicon, and
+oxygen--are also found most widely distributed among the meteorites.”
+
+“That is an exceedingly significant fact,” said Thorwald; “and now
+do you not see how strongly the meteorites confirm the story of the
+spectrum, and how everything tells us the universe is one in its
+physical structure? By these two widely different sources of information
+you find that beyond doubt other heavenly bodies are made of like
+materials with the earth. Is it not time now to give your imagination
+just a moment’s play and look upon some of those distant orbs as the
+probable abode of life?”
+
+“There I cannot follow you,” responded the doctor. “I am wanting in
+imagination; probably born so, as some people are born without an ear
+for music. Let us stick to facts. Among the recent discoveries in
+the field of which we have been talking was the finding of some small
+diamonds in a meteoric mass. Upon this some enthusiastic writer, whose
+imaginative soul would be your delight, Thorwald, built this argument:
+‘Diamonds being pure carbon, their existence necessitates a previous
+vegetable growth. Hence vegetable life in other worlds is proven, and if
+vegetable life, it is fair to presume the existence of animal life
+also. Of course, then, there must be intelligent life, and therefore the
+stars, or the planets that revolve around the stars, are all filled with
+men.’ This I call not reasoning, but guessing.”
+
+“And still,” quickly responded Thorwald, “the discovery of diamonds in
+meteorites was a valuable link in the chain of evidence which you are
+putting together. Keep on with your investigations. Some time positive
+knowledge will come to you as it has come to us. But let me appeal once
+more to your reason. At an earlier stage of development your race no
+doubt believed the earth was the center of the universe, around which
+all the heavenly bodies swept in magnificent circles. You have learned
+that the earth itself, which was formerly thought to be so important an
+object, is only one of those heavenly bodies flying through space. You
+find the earth resembles its nearest companions in being subject to the
+same laws of motion which govern them, but you have yet to learn that
+they resemble the earth in the main purpose of their creation. You go
+into the forest and see thousands of trees. You can find no two alike,
+and yet all are alike in every material respect. Even the myriads of
+leaves are all different, and yet all alike. So why may not the millions
+of stars that fill the sky be like our own sun and like each other,
+differing in such immaterial things as size and brilliancy, color and
+constitution, but alike in the chief object of their being, the giving
+of light and heat, as vivifying forces to dark bodies surrounding them?
+And why may not these planets resemble the earth in being, at some stage
+of their existence, the theater of God’s great designs?
+
+“Let me try to excite your imagination in another way, Doctor. Suppose
+you should by and by awake and find this visit to Mars only a dream, and
+then suppose it should be revealed to you in some superhuman way
+that man was indeed the only race of intelligent beings in the whole
+universe; that the other planets and all the stars were of no real
+use; that not one world from that vast region of the milky way and far
+distant nebulae would ever send forth a note of praise to its Creator,
+and that the tiny earth was, after all, the center and sum of the
+universe--tell me, would you not feel lonesome?”
+
+“When you put it in that way, Thorwald,” replied the doctor, “I begin
+to see how unreasonable my position must appear to you. But, however
+pleasant the idea, I do not see how I can believe that other worlds are
+inhabited without more evidence than we now possess. This is speaking,
+of course, without the knowledge we have gained since coming here. But I
+do not mind saying that your talk has made me wish I could believe it.”
+
+I was glad for several reasons that the doctor acknowledged as much as
+this. First, for Thorwald’s sake; for I had been thinking the doctor’s
+obduracy was proving a poor reward for our friend’s great kindness to
+us. I rejoiced, too, that my companion was beginning to show our new
+acquaintance that, although he had little imagination, he was possessed
+of a good heart. And, finally, I was myself so much in sympathy with
+Thorwald’s views that I was glad to see his arguments begin to make some
+impression on the doctor’s mind.
+
+But now it seemed to me that Thorwald had much to tell us from his own
+experience. He had talked so far on this subject from the standpoint
+of our earthly knowledge, but had hinted more than once that the
+inhabitants of Mars had more positive evidence than we had ever dreamed
+could be possible. So I said:
+
+“Your arguments have been very acceptable to me, Thorwald, but can you
+not strengthen even my faith by speaking now from the results of your
+own more advanced studies? We must base our belief in the existence of
+life outside the earth on mere probabilities, which, however strong,
+lead only to theory and leave us still in doubt. Have you any certain
+knowledge on the subject, or, I might say, had you any before we came to
+see you?”
+
+“Oh, yes,” replied Thorwald, “we have long had evidence almost as
+positive as your presence here, fresh from one of our sister planets.
+It will give me great pleasure to tell you of some of our marvelous
+achievements in astronomy. The doctor says he would like to believe
+in the habitability of other worlds; he must believe in it before I am
+through if he has any faith in me.
+
+“I would like to say, to begin with, that whatever we have accomplished
+in this science you on the earth can accomplish. I know enough by
+comparing your development with our own to feel sure that our present
+condition foreshadows yours, and that all the knowledge we possess in
+various directions will come in time to you. Let nothing discourage you
+in your quest for knowledge. If you seem to have arrived at the limit of
+possibilities in the telescope, for example, have patience. Difficulties
+which you think insurmountable, time will remove, and you will be able
+to penetrate more and more into the mysteries of the universe.
+
+“Our telescopes have gradually increased in power until we have been
+able to accomplish things that you will no doubt think truly marvelous.
+But, before you call any achievement in this science impossible, just
+look back and compare the ignorance of the early inhabitants of the
+earth with your present knowledge; and do not be so proud of the wisdom
+already attained that you cannot also look forward to an enlarged
+comprehension of things you now call mysteries, and to a much closer
+acquaintance with the works of God.
+
+“To our increasing vision the heavens have continued to unfold their
+wonders. We have penetrated far into the depths of space only to marvel,
+at each new revelation, at the power and wisdom of the Creator. The
+number of stars discovered to our view would be incredible to you, and
+yet it will be interesting to you to learn that we can still place no
+bounds to creation. We have, it is true, found the limits of what we
+call our universe and have mapped out all its boundaries. When this had
+been done we tried to pierce the surrounding darkness, but for a long
+time, in spite of our belief that we could not yet see the end, all
+beyond seemed a void. Recently, however, our faith has been rewarded,
+for we can now see other universes, buried in far space but revealed
+dimly to the higher powers of our telescopes.
+
+“But you are doubtless eager to hear of some more definite knowledge
+gained from this wide domain. Well, we have determined the distances,
+size, and motions of many of the stars, resolved star clusters and
+nebulae, solved the mystery of the double and variable stars, and, what
+is of more consequence than all these things, we have in many instances
+discovered the secondary bodies themselves, revolving around a central
+sun. We now know, what we so long suspected, that the rolling stars are
+suns like our own, giving light and heat to attending worlds. With this
+knowledge, can you wonder, Doctor, that we acquired the belief that
+these worlds, resembling so much the planets of our own system, are fit
+homes for intelligent beings?”
+
+“I cannot see,” replied the doctor, “that such a belief necessarily
+follows your discovery, which, I must own, was an exceedingly valuable
+one. I can readily believe that each star that shines in our sky is a
+sun surrounded by dependent bodies so dark as to be invisible through
+our terrestrial telescopes, but still I presume even your instruments
+are not powerful enough to find any inhabitants on those distant
+worlds?”
+
+“No,” replied Thorwald, “but for what other conceivable purpose were
+these bodies created?”
+
+“I frankly acknowledge that I am not able to answer that question,” said
+the doctor. “If you have many more wonderful discoveries to relate I
+shall soon have to own myself convinced.”
+
+“I am trying to convince your reason,” resumed Thorwald, “without the
+aid of positive evidence, but I may as well proceed now to show you what
+further knowledge we have gained.
+
+“The nearer planets of our own solar system have been naturally the
+objects of our close scrutiny. As our telescopes increased in power we
+diligently studied the surface of these globes, searching for signs
+of life. We mapped out their features, noted the various phenomena of
+season and climate, and discovered many ways in which they seemed to
+be like our world. But for a long time we found no direct evidence that
+they were inhabited.
+
+“At length, however, one ardent philosopher, full of hope, as we all
+were, that we had neighbors on some of these globes, brought out the
+idea that if these neighbors were as far advanced in astronomical
+science as we were, there ought to be some means of communication
+between one world and another. The thought took at once, and occasioned
+the most lively interest. We had no doubt, from what we had learned of
+these planets, that they were fitted to be, at some time, the home of
+intelligent beings. Our question was whether the inhabitable period of
+either of them coincided with that of Mars, and, if so, whether the race
+was sufficiently developed to be able to see us as well as we could see
+them.
+
+“The first means suggested to attract the attention of such a race of
+beings was fire. You can imagine that we could get together material
+enough to make a pretty big blaze, and we did. We lighted immense
+fires in various places and kept them burning a long time, but without
+accomplishing anything. We scanned minutely the surface of each
+planet, but saw no sign anywhere that our effort at communication was
+recognized.
+
+“Disappointed, but not discouraged, we determined next to try a system
+of simple hieroglyphics by throwing up huge mounds on one of our plains.
+We thought, if other eyes were studying Mars as closely as we were
+searching the surface of our sister planets for signs of life, that
+they would notice any unusual change in our appearance. Then if they did
+notice it we hoped some means would be found to let us know it.
+
+“It was decided to try first the figure of the circle, because we
+knew that the form of all heavenly bodies must be the most familiar
+to intelligent life wherever it existed. It took years of labor to
+construct the mound, for it was thought best to have it large enough
+to give the experiment a thorough trial. And now you may believe we
+considered ourselves well repaid for all our toil and expense when, soon
+after the circle was completed, our telescopes showed us a similar
+form actually growing upon the surface of both Saturn and Uranus. We
+immediately replied by beginning the construction of a square, and
+before this was finished both planets began to answer, one with the
+triangle and the other with the crescent. The latter was made by Uranus,
+and as soon as it was finished the triangle began to appear beside it,
+showing to us that Uranus was reading from Saturn also.
+
+“Other signs followed, although, of course, the work was very slow, and
+the experiments are still in progress. Some slight beginning has been
+made toward the interchange of ideas. The time and labor required will
+alone prevent extended communication, which would make it possible to
+form, in the course of ages, a mutual language. As we were the first to
+start it we propose to try to control the conversation, but if Saturn
+and Uranus choose to steal our idea and gossip between themselves, we
+know of no way to stop them.”
+
+As Thorwald proceeded with this marvelous recital, it was interesting
+to watch the doctor’s face. It was so apparent to me that he was fast
+losing his skepticism that I was not surprised to hear him say:
+
+“Thorwald, one fact is worth more to me than a world of theory, and if
+you had begun by relating this wonderful experience you would not have
+found me so incredulous. Who could refuse to believe with such testimony
+before him? What news this will be to take back to the earth! But you
+have, doubtless, other discoveries to relate to us. Excuse me,” the
+doctor continued, turning to me, “for interrupting, even for a moment,
+our friend’s most interesting discourse.”
+
+“Let me say,” resumed Thorwald, “that your interruption has been helpful
+to me, for now I know you have lost your doubts and believe with us in
+this matter.”
+
+“These efforts at communication have occupied us for generations, and
+the close study which we have been obliged to give to the surface of the
+other planets has made us well acquainted with their characteristics. We
+have found many likenesses to our own world, as well as various points
+of difference. The succession of the seasons has been an interesting
+phenomenon. We have watched with delight the ever-changing rings of
+our neighbor, Saturn, and can show you pictures of them as they were
+thousands of years ago.”
+
+“We have taken great pleasure in observing the round of seasons on
+the surface of the earth, not dreaming that we should ever have the
+privilege of talking face to face with its inhabitants.”
+
+“Well, now that we are here, Thorwald,” said the doctor, “we want to get
+all the information possible. So please go on and tell us more of your
+discoveries. How about those bodies that you have found circling like
+planets around other suns? Have you any evidence in regard to their
+inhabitants? Your telescopes cannot surely bring any such bodies near
+enough to enable you to communicate with them.”
+
+“True,” replied Thorwald, “but this is another instance where nature has
+lent us her assistance. If you have been surprised at some things that
+I have already said, you will probably find what I am about to relate
+equally outside of your experience.”
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVIII.
+
+STRUCK BY A COMET.
+
+
+“The most remarkable event in the realm of matter that ever occurred
+in connection with this planet, of which we have a record, was its
+collision with a comet. This was many ages ago and it made an epoch in
+our history, so that we say such a thing occurred so many years before
+or after the collision. Although the records are rather meager we know
+enough of the details to have a fair understanding of the wonderful
+event.
+
+“The comet had no established period, as so many others have, but
+seemed to be an entirely new-comer, and from its first appearance showed
+plainly that it was making straight for our planet. The astronomers
+predicted at once what the inevitable result would be, and you can
+imagine the consternation of the world as this monstrous, fiery object
+bore down upon us, increasing in size and splendor every day, until
+it filled half the sky and threatened to engulf us in flame and
+destruction. There seemed to be no possible escape, and, in fact, there
+was to be no escape from a collision, but almost all the harm that
+followed was the result of pure fright. For as the comet came rushing
+upon us the whole hemisphere of Mars was filled with its blazing
+substance, which appeared, however, to burn itself out in our
+atmosphere, and to leave, in most cases, nothing to reach the ground.
+
+“Perhaps you have seen a shower of falling stars on the earth, brilliant
+and threatening in appearance, but causing in reality little damage. So
+the comet came to us. Its immense, fiery volume, which filled us with
+such dread, was so diffused that it was nearly all consumed by impact
+with our atmosphere. But there was a great solid nucleus, which struck
+the ground with immense force, and remains as our largest meteorite.
+
+“Thus not only was our world spared from destruction, but that which
+threatened to be such an evil proved to be a great acquisition. For the
+comet, as it is still called, has revealed to us the most astonishing
+secrets. For a long time the mass of matter lay untouched, superstition
+and the lack of scientific curiosity tending to preserve it as it fell.
+But at length the spirit of inquiry proved to be too strong, and
+within a comparatively recent period the comet has been broken into and
+explored with wonderful results.
+
+“You must know, to begin with, that this greatest natural curiosity on
+the face of our planet is no common meteorite such as you are acquainted
+with. Indeed, if it had struck the earth as fair a blow as it did us I
+think the shock would have been felt much more severely by your little
+race, for it is hundreds of miles in diameter and the velocity with
+which it was traveling was simply incredible. Fortunately it fell upon
+an uninhabited plain, partly burying itself in the ground, and for
+several years the mass was so hot that it could not be approached. This
+helped to make it an object of awe and almost of veneration, so that
+many centuries of time passed before any critical examination was made
+of it. Even then nothing was accomplished toward revealing its marvelous
+secrets. The surface was found to be hard and metallic, with the
+familiar burned appearance caused by contact with the atmosphere,
+and the substance, in its chemical composition, resembled, with some
+variation, other meteoric specimens. Some attempt was made to penetrate
+into the interior of the mass, but all that was discovered led to the
+belief that it was of similar structure throughout.
+
+“This was the extent of the knowledge obtained of the interesting object
+until the beginning of the present age of advanced civilization.
+
+“When we had learned by our successful experiments that some of our
+sister planets were inhabited, and when our powerful telescopes had
+revealed what we believed to be planets of other systems, there was
+intense interest in the search for any evidence of life in these more
+distant worlds. They were so very far away that we doubted if we could
+ever know enough about them to tell whether they were habitable, and it
+seemed as if we could only judge of their condition from analogy
+with our own solar system. These views prevailed until the brilliant
+suggestion was made, and it is not known by whom it was first advanced,
+that perhaps we had, right here with us, the means of discovering what
+we so much desired to know. It had always been assumed that our comet
+was of uniform structure, but why let such a matter rest in uncertainty?
+It is one of the strange things in our history that this question was
+not seriously asked long before that time. But now that the idea was
+broached the work was entered into with great earnestness.
+
+“This was the position: Here was this huge mass that had come to us from
+some unknown region of the sky, almost certainly from beyond the bounds
+of our solar system, and we were to pry into it to see if it had any
+story to tell us of its former condition. The advancement of science had
+given us the means of easily penetrating into the interior of the comet,
+and it was determined to make thorough work of it. And this feeling was
+found to be necessary, for the enterprise proved to be discouraging
+for many years. An immense tunnel was made through the entire mass,
+and nothing was found to repay the trouble. Many were now in favor
+of abandoning the work, but after a period of rest another trial was
+decided upon and a second tunnel begun. Never did perseverance have a
+more perfect reward; for, before the new excavations had proceeded far,
+discoveries were made which suddenly changed our comet, in regard to
+which most people had lost all interest, into the most wonderful object
+in all the world.
+
+“In short, we now know that we have here a fragment of a former planet.
+How the planet was dismembered and how this piece happened to come
+flying to us, we do not know. But could it have come about more
+fortunately for us if it had all been designed by an over-ruling power?
+When we had learned all that our expanding but limited intelligence
+could teach us of the other parts of the universe, and when our minds
+were ripe for more knowledge, we found this magnificent object lesson,
+which had been waiting for us all these years. Beneath the uninviting
+surface of that familiar comet were revealed wonders which, if they
+had been discovered when the mass first came, would not have been
+half-appreciated, but which now told us, in answer to our eager
+inquiries, more than we ever thought to know about the far-distant works
+of our God.”
+
+The doctor and I were amazed beyond measure by this recital, and were
+quite ready to admit that a superior intelligence had directed the
+wonderful event. But we were exceedingly anxious to know some of the
+details of the discovery, and when the doctor had expressed this wish
+Thorwald proceeded:
+
+“I could talk on this subject,” he said, “till night-fall if you desire,
+but it will be better for you to restrain your curiosity till you can be
+taken in person to the scene. Let me tell you in general terms what you
+will find. The comet fell, as I have said, in an uninhabited plain, but
+it is now at the door of the largest city on our planet, which has been
+built there since the discoveries were made. The excavations have left
+an immense opening, where galleries and chambers of great extent have
+been dug out. These have been finished off with untold labor, and new
+ones are being constantly added. Here is our greatest museum, beside
+which all other collections of natural objects are as nothing, for all
+that has been found in the comet remains there; nothing has been
+allowed to be taken away. You will appreciate something of the wonderful
+character of these curiosities when I tell you that they give evidence
+of a world many times larger than Jupiter and of an intellectual and
+spiritual development as much beyond ours as ours is in advance of that
+of the earth.
+
+“We have exhumed buried cities in our own planet more than once, where
+volcano or other convulsion had overwhelmed them, and found the relics
+of past civilization; but here, in our comet, we look not upon the past
+but upon the future, as it were, and see what has been done in a world
+much older than our own. The belief that the comet did not originate in
+our solar system has been verified, for we find that the globe of which
+it was once a part revolved around an immense sun which had a retinue of
+twenty-seven planets of various sizes. Whether this great sun is one
+of the stars of our firmament we can only conjecture; perhaps in some
+future state of existence we shall know.
+
+“You have wondered if the earth will ever advance to the condition in
+which you find us, and we are asking the same question in regard to
+ourselves and the still higher development exhibited in our comet. My
+opinion is that these very discoveries are to be in a measure the means
+of our advancement. We are only beginning to make out their wonderful
+character. As we learn more of them we hope to find out more closely
+how that people lived, and to be directed in our upward path by their
+example. In the pursuit of this knowledge we are hampered by our
+ignorance of their language. All that we know of them and their planet
+has been gained by their very suggestive pictures and illustrations, for
+of their written records, which exist in great abundance, we can as yet
+make nothing. In our former studies of the different languages of our
+own world we found something common to them all, upon which we could
+work; but in this case an entirely new principle seems to obtain, and
+the problem so far baffles all our skill. So you see here is something
+for us to do, and when we have accomplished the task, as I have no doubt
+that result will come, we shall then be able to study in detail that
+remarkable civilization the knowledge of which is wisely kept from us
+until we can understand and appreciate it.
+
+“You come here from your young planet, representing a race that is still
+struggling with the lower forms of materialism, and find us so much in
+advance of your condition that perhaps you imagine we are perfect. We
+ourselves know we are far from that state, especially since we have
+been able to compare our development with the higher civilization of the
+people who once lived on our comet.”
+
+Thorwald paused a moment, and the doctor, who showed by every indication
+that he was engrossed in the subject, took occasion to remark:
+
+“We certainly have harbored the thought you attribute to us, Thorwald.
+After all you have told us of your freedom from trouble, of the
+dethronement of selfishness and the reign of love, of your great
+achievements in every art, and of your ideal life in general, we shall
+always look upon you as a perfect race. How is it possible to rise to a
+higher plain? Can you express in terms suited to our comprehension your
+idea of that advanced state of existence of which you find indications
+on your comet? What is the character of that development?”
+
+“You will perhaps understand something of its character,” answered
+Thorwald, “if I say it is almost entirely spiritual. While we have made
+some progress in that direction, our superiority over the earth-dwellers
+is chiefly in physical and intellectual attainments. In the realm of the
+spirit we have yet far to go, and as long as we can see imperfections in
+our nature we feel that there is something ahead for us to strive after.
+With that example before us of a much more exalted life, we shall not
+be satisfied until we have learned its secrets and attained to its
+perfections. In this upward march we shall be sustained and helped by
+the same divine Power that has thus far led us.”
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIX.
+
+I DISCOVER THE SINGER.
+
+
+We were much impressed by Thorwald’s earnest words and manner, and
+we began to realize that the civilization of Mars was above our most
+exalted conception. I had been so carried away by the topics which I
+had feared were going to be uninteresting that I had lost some of the
+restlessness of the morning, but as our sitting broke up and I noticed
+it was drawing near noon my anxious thoughts returned. Finding Fronda
+and learning from her from what direction Avis might be expected to
+come, I determined to go out alone and see if I could meet her. I
+managed to get away without the fact being noticed, as far as I could
+discover, and started down the walk at a brisk pace. The houses were
+a good distance apart and were all attractive enough to draw out both
+wonder and admiration, had my mind been in a condition to appreciate
+their beauty. Occasionally an electric carriage would pass me, but the
+first pedestrian I met was a woman of noble bearing and about the age of
+Fronda, I should judge. After all I had heard of the physical and mental
+perfections of the inhabitants of Mars, I did not expect to see any but
+good-looking people. In this we were never disappointed, though still
+there were gradations of beauty even there. This woman whom I had met
+must have been at one time strikingly handsome, and if time had robbed
+her of any of that quality it had made it up by giving her a rare
+sweetness that fully atoned for the loss. As I was about to pass her she
+looked at me with such a pleasant and agreeable curiosity that I stopped
+and said:
+
+“Pardon me, but may I ask you a question?”
+
+“Certainly,” she answered in a charming voice, “and I shall be very
+glad to help you in any way. I recognize that you are one of the
+earth-dwellers, and I have met your companion the doctor.”
+
+“Is it possible? I wonder he has not told me of such good fortune. But
+this is the question I wanted to ask you. As you came along this path
+did you see a young girl named Avis?”
+
+“I did not, I am sure. I have met no young girl, and I could not see any
+one by the name of Avis.”
+
+“Why so?”
+
+“Because there is no such girl.”
+
+“Excuse me,” I said, “but probably you do not know her. I have just come
+from one of the houses yonder, where she is expected about noon, and I
+came out to try and meet her.”
+
+“Do you know her?” she asked.
+
+“No--or, rather, I hope so; I cannot tell till I see her.”
+
+“That’s curious. Have you ever met her?”
+
+“I am not sure. I hope I have. I cannot explain it to you just now,
+but the minute I put my eyes on Avis I shall be able to answer all your
+questions.”
+
+“But her name cannot be Avis.”
+
+“Oh, yes, it is. It is quite plain that you do not know her.”
+
+“I beg your pardon,” she returned, “there is but one person in all this
+country by the name of Avis.”
+
+“Then that is the very person I am trying to find.”
+
+“You have found her.”
+
+“Where?”
+
+“Right here. I am she.”
+
+I laughed outright and said:
+
+“Oh, no, you must be mistaken. I do not mean to be disrespectful, but
+the Avis I am looking for is young, younger than I am--evidently another
+person of your name, whom you have never met.”
+
+“How do you know she is young?”
+
+“Why,” I answered, “of course she is young.”
+
+And then, when I thought of it a moment, I remembered that no one had
+told me her age, but I added:
+
+“I know she is young, because I have heard her sing.”
+
+It was now my companion’s turn to laugh, but although her merriment
+was at my expense its expression, like all her actions, was exceedingly
+pleasing. The thought occurred to me that even the most cultured of the
+earth’s inhabitants have still much to learn in the realm of manners.
+
+“Oh, do you imagine,” she asked, in the midst of her laughing, “that you
+can tell one’s age in Mars from the quality of the voice? Does this Avis
+of yours sing well?”
+
+“Excellently well. Until I heard her I had supposed there was but one
+singer anywhere, in earth, sun, moon, or star, possessed of such a sweet
+and thrilling voice.”
+
+“And where, if I may ask, did you find that one?”
+
+“Oh, the doctor and I discovered her in our travels. I will tell you all
+about her when I have more time. Now will you excuse me while I continue
+my search for Avis?”
+
+“You have forgotten,” she answered, “what I told you. I am Avis.”
+
+“Not my Avis, the singer.”
+
+“Yes, the very same, and I can prove it.”
+
+“How?”
+
+She answered by turning half around, lifting her head, and sending out
+on the air one full, rich note. It poorly describes my emotions to say
+I was astonished. If I had been blind and dependent only on what I heard
+at that moment, I should have thrown myself at her feet and called
+her Mona. It brought back to me not only every expression of Mona’s
+marvelous voice, but also every feature and every grace which had
+formerly so bewitched me. If I had loved her passionately when we were
+together in the body, it would be difficult to characterize my feelings
+now that she was present only in memory. These sensations swept over me
+rapidly, but before I could utter a word my companion spoke again:
+
+“I see you hesitate. Let me complete my proof by saying that you are
+visiting, with Zenith and Thorwald, at the house of Fronda, and have
+heard me sing two nights in succession.”
+
+“Then,” I exclaimed, with sorrow and despair in my voice, “I have indeed
+found Avis, but, alas! I have once more lost Mona.”
+
+“How so?”
+
+“Why, don’t you see? I expected to find Mona and lose Avis. I thought
+Avis was Mona, a thought born partly of hope, I suppose, but it did not
+seem possible that there could be two such singers. So you are really
+Avis. I must try and remember that, and not express any more sorrow
+at not losing you. If Avis could not be Mona it is certainly a great
+consolation to find her in you. Let me return with you to Proctor’s; and
+now, will you not sing for me as we walk?”
+
+“Are you so fond of singing, or is it because you like to be reminded of
+Mona?”
+
+“Both, I assure you.”
+
+“Does my voice sound like hers in conversation?”
+
+“Oh, no, Mona never talked as we do. Everything she wanted to say she
+sang.”
+
+“You surprise me,” said Avis. “I should think she would soon become
+tiresome to her friends.”
+
+“If you had ever known her you would not make such a remark as that.”
+
+“I beg your pardon,” she quickly returned. “I presume you are right. And
+now, to atone for wounding your feelings, I will sing till we come in
+sight of Fronda’s house.”
+
+“I thank you very much, and I promise you I shall walk as slowly as
+possible.”
+
+She sang some sweet little things for me as we sauntered along,
+attracting me powerfully and making it easier for me to conceal my great
+disappointment.
+
+When we reached the house Avis explained, in a few pleasant words, the
+fact of our acquaintance, and as soon as family and guests were
+all gathered for the noonday lunch I told them about my peculiar
+forgetfulness of what had occurred on the moon and then about the manner
+in which the events had been brought back to my mind. They showed more
+interest in the latter part of my relation than in the former, and when
+I was through the doctor said:
+
+“I must confess to you now, my friend, that I told these good people
+something about your aberration. It was entirely for your own sake, for
+I wanted their help in bringing about your recovery, and now that we
+have been successful I hope you will forgive me.”
+
+“You know there is nothing to forgive,” I replied. Then Zenith said:
+
+“The doctor implies that we have all helped in the happy result, but I
+can tell you that it is entirely due to himself and Avis. He happened
+to meet Avis and heard her sing. He was struck at once with the
+likeness between her voice and Mona’s, about whom he had told us, and he
+conceived the idea that if you could hear it when you were alone, say
+in the night, and not know who the singer was, it might be the means
+of bringing the forgotten circumstances all back to you. From what the
+doctor has told us we have, every one of us, fallen in love with Mona,
+and I presume when we get your estimate we shall think none the less of
+her. If I am correctly informed you found her especially attractive.”
+
+“In answer to your kind expressions of interest in me, Zenith, I will
+say that, in spite of my appreciation of what you are all doing for us,
+I shall never see another really happy moment until Mona is found.”
+
+“Then,” quickly responded Thorwald, “we must redouble our efforts to
+find her. I must tell you that ever since the doctor first acquainted us
+with the loss of Mona we have had parties searching for her in all that
+part of the ocean.”
+
+“How thoughtful you are,” I exclaimed. “But why do we not hurry home?
+Perhaps she is found.”
+
+“I regret to add to your sorrow,” said Thorwald, “but we should learn of
+it here as quickly as at home, for I am in constant communication with
+my friends who are conducting the search. Still, we have been staying
+here for you and can now bring our visit to a close at any time.”
+
+So after lunch we bade adieu to Proctor and his household, and started
+for home, the same way we went out--that is, by going west again. As we
+made a leisurely journey and enjoyed a good night’s rest on the way, it
+was just before noon when we arrived at Thorwald’s house. Here we
+found Antonia, who had been advised of our coming by telephone, and had
+prepared a nice lunch for us. Just as we were all about to sit down
+to enjoy it, a young man entered unannounced and, without formal
+invitation, joined us in gathering about the board. This was not an
+instance of undue familiarity, as we soon discovered, but illustrated
+again the free and hearty hospitality of these generous people.
+
+“Foedric,” said Thorwald, as soon as the guest had been greeted, “let
+me present you to these two friends from the earth. You doubtless have
+heard of their arrival.”
+
+“I have,” answered Foedric, “and I am exceedingly pleased to make their
+acquaintance.” And then turning to the doctor, he said:
+
+“We shall not let Thorwald and Zenith have the monopoly of your company
+while you are visiting our world. Many others are anxious to see you and
+to learn something of our sister planet.”
+
+“There is not much to learn,” said the doctor, “from such an unripe
+race as we represent, and I must say your people have not exhibited any
+unpleasant curiosity.”
+
+“I am glad you have not been annoyed. We understand too well what is due
+you as our guests to crowd our attentions upon you, but you will allow
+me to say that already the main facts in your case are known all
+over our world, and our scientists are discussing the earth and its
+inhabitants in the great light of the knowledge which you have brought.”
+
+Foedric spoke with ease, and yet with entire absence of youthful
+pedantry. The doctor and I could but admire his fine face and robust
+form, as well as his manly courtesy and friendliness. And before the
+meal was over we discovered that one other person at the table admired
+him, probably for the same and many other qualities. It seemed to us
+accidental when Foedric had dropped in upon us and chosen a seat next to
+Antonia, but it soon became evident that we had not witnessed even that
+kind of an accident.
+
+What was exhibited to us there, among that highly developed people, was
+a genuine, old-fashioned, new-fashioned love affair. We rejoiced in our
+hearts to find that their advanced civilization left abundant room for
+the development of the tender passion, and that it also seemed not to
+discourage a plain and sensible exhibition of it. For these two young
+people made no effort to conceal their happiness. Not the company of
+their chosen friends nor the presence of strangers from a distant world
+caused them the slightest embarrassment, as they spoke from time to
+time their words of love, simple words to other listeners, but full of
+meaning to themselves.
+
+“Say that again, Antonia,” spoke Foedric.
+
+“Why do you ask me to repeat it so often? I have said it so many times
+and with so little variety of expression that I fear the monotony will
+tire you. You can tell how strong my devotion is by my every look and
+action.”
+
+“Very well,” Foedric responded, “then I, too, will be silent.”
+
+“Oh, no; I retract what I have said if it is to have that effect. It is
+only my own expressions that seem tiresome. I could not be happy without
+your voice in my ears, though you repeat from morn till eve the old,
+familiar words.”
+
+“Then you must believe the same of me,” said Foedric.
+
+As we all happened to be listening to these two at that moment, Foedric
+looked up to our host and said:
+
+“Thorwald, do you think Antonia and I had better try to reform the
+customs of the world, and do away with all verbal expression of our
+attachment, on the ground that it is unnecessary and only a waste of
+breath?”
+
+“If some cruel master should force such a prohibition upon you,
+Foedric, what would be your feeling? The heart craves such expression as
+naturally as the body craves food. Suppose a couple were to start off by
+saying once for all that they loved each other, and then agree to live
+the rest of their lives on that one expression. They would argue that
+all such sentiment was folly, and interfered with the serious business
+of life, and so, denying a healthy appetite, their hearts would shrivel
+up and the fair blossom of their love would soon wither and die.”
+
+As we smiled at Thorwald’s words, Zenith showed her interest by saying:
+
+“The subject reminds me of that epoch in our history of which we read,
+when all the world went without eating for a time.”
+
+“Without eating?” asked the doctor.
+
+“Yes, I will tell you about it. Once science reached that condition
+where it thought it could make the world over and improve on the first
+creation in a great many ways. Men began to say that the time spent in
+cooking and eating was all wasted, that time, being the most valuable
+thing they had, should be employed in some more useful way than in
+indulging a mere sensual passion. The appetite came to be looked upon
+as something too gross for intelligent beings and suited only to the
+natures of the lower animals. Under the influence of this growing
+sentiment, science soon discovered a process for condensing our food to
+wonderfully small proportions. All extraneous matter was rejected, and
+only those particles retained which were absolutely essential to our
+nourishment, chemical knowledge having reached a high state. The result
+was that it finally became possible to subsist a whole day on a single
+swallow. One pill, taken every morning, contained all the food required,
+both for the growth and maintenance of the body Science prided itself on
+such an advanced step, and men looked forward and wondered what further
+marvels the future would bring forth.”
+
+The doctor did not try to hide his interest in this recital, and as soon
+as Zenith paused he said:
+
+“My friend and myself are most truly thankful that that custom did not
+continue to the present day. But did it remain long?”
+
+“No,” replied Zenith, “of course it could not. At first people thought
+it an immense gain. Just think of the time and expense it saved in
+every household, doing away with dining-room and kitchen, with all their
+furniture and utensils, and reducing the cares of housekeeping much
+more than half. But it proved to be a costly experiment, and nature soon
+exerted itself, as it always will in time. Science, not satisfied with
+what had been accomplished, kept striving after what it called more
+perfect results, and just as it had made a pellet of such powerful
+ingredients that it would sustain life for a week, men began to die
+rapidly of the treatment. This called a halt, but the damage done was
+serious enough to give the world a good fright, turn it back to the old
+fashioned habit of eating, and confirm us forever in that indulgence.
+Since then we have believed that such appetites are given us for a wise
+purpose and that, rightly enjoyed, they are a means of growth toward a
+more and more perfect state.”
+
+“This lesson from our experience then,” said Foedric to Antonia, “is to
+teach us the plain duty of lavishing upon each other, without measure,
+our affectionate words, because it is a legitimate, healthy longing
+of our nature, and I sincerely hope you will take it to heart. Do not
+undertake to make me exist a week or a day on a single morsel.”
+
+As for myself, I was not so much engrossed in this talk as to forget my
+own condition, which seemed all the more forlorn by contrast with the
+unalloyed happiness of these joyous beings. I wondered if such affairs
+always went smoothly in Mars. Was early love always mutual, or did one
+sometimes refuse to be wooed and prefer another? And did it ever happen
+that the loved one was lost, as Mona was lost to me, perhaps never to be
+found?
+
+But in the company of such happy people I felt that my anxious spirit
+was out of place, and I tried to cast off my forebodings and to seize
+from the image of Mona present in my memory a portion of her own cheer
+and hope. That I was not entirely successful my looks must have
+shown, for as we rose from the table Zenith said to me, with a look of
+sympathy:
+
+“You are sad--I think I will send for Avis to come over and cheer you
+up.”
+
+This was spoken as if Avis were just across the street and could run
+over in a minute. But as I did not discourage the idea the invitation
+was sent, and before night Avis was with us, filling the house with
+melody. She delighted in her song and was as youthful in spirit as a
+girl, and this was a quality always noticeable in the Martians. And,
+moreover, under the influence of Avis the members of our own household
+found their voices, so that the doctor and I learned that they need not
+send to the antipodes for singers. Zenith and Foedric were exceptionally
+good, but no one except Avis possessed the peculiar charm of Mona.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XX.
+
+A WONDERFUL REVELATION.
+
+
+There was no way by which we could learn so much and so rapidly about
+that wonderful world as by conversation, so at every opportunity we
+tried to get Thorwald and the others to give us portions of their
+history. From time to time my companion and myself compared our
+impressions, and expressed to each other the pleasure we anticipated in
+relating all the amazing things we had seen and heard to our friends on
+the earth. The exceedingly doubtful problem of our ever getting back to
+our home again did not trouble us then.
+
+We said to each other that the most startling things had probably all
+been told us, and that we could not be much surprised by anything that
+they could tell us further. And yet there was that to follow which, if
+we could fully enter into its significance, would make us forget much of
+what we had already heard, or at least care but little to recall it. In
+truth, the new revelation which we were about to receive from the lips
+of our friend was of so much value, and so different in character from
+the other subjects Thorwald had spoken of, that we afterward came to
+look upon all that had gone before as an introduction, perhaps intended
+to prepare our minds for a much grander truth. Yet it was brought out
+by a question from me, a question of whose importance I had little
+conception.
+
+When Thorwald was ready to talk one day I said to him:
+
+“We have heard you several times speak reverently of a God. Will you
+tell us definitely what your religion is?”
+
+“With pleasure,” he replied. “We worship one God, the maker of all
+things, and his Son, Jesus Christ, who gave his life for us.”
+
+“Why, how did you hear of his death, Thorwald?”
+
+“I might better ask how you heard of it. Many centuries ago God saw fit
+to reveal himself more fully to us by sending his only Son, who came in
+the likeness of our flesh, dwelt among us, and by cruel hands was slain.
+He gave himself a sacrifice for our sins, but rose again from the dead,
+as we, too, shall rise. He ascended into heaven and through him we now
+have access unto the Father.”
+
+“But Jesus died on the earth too, and you but describe his relations to
+us.”
+
+“I rejoice greatly to hear it,” answered Thorwald, “and I know now why
+you were sent to us. This information is of inestimable value to us, for
+we have spent much thought on the question of the moral government of
+other worlds that we knew were inhabited. In God’s dealings with Mars,
+lifting up our souls and preparing us for his service and glory, we
+believed he was working in the very best way. There can be but one best
+way; and so, considering that there might be many other races of sinful
+beings needing a saviour, we wondered how God’s mercy was revealed
+to them. This bright news which you bring is worth more to us at the
+present time than all other possible information about the earth or its
+people. The fact that the earth is inhabited was no great surprise to
+us after what we had learned of our larger neighbors, but this--this is
+news indeed.
+
+“As an example of what our interest in this subject has prompted us
+to do, let me tell you that in our extremely laborious and limited
+intercourse with Saturn and Uranus we made the form of the cross. We all
+feared our work might be in vain and many doubted seriously the wisdom
+of proceeding with the undertaking, which occupied many years, when it
+was so probable that those distant people would not know what the sign
+meant. But we labored on, and before the form was fairly finished it was
+with the keenest pleasure that we saw the answer growing on the rounded
+surface of each planet. They worked, they stopped, and then we realized
+that both had replied to our question with the short straight line
+which, in our communications, has come to be the affirmative sign, or
+the ‘yes’ in the new universal language.
+
+“We interpreted this answer to mean that the great redemption signified
+by the cross was known to the highly intelligent races that peopled
+these rolling worlds. But how did that knowledge reach them? To that
+question we never hoped to get an answer. Did a troop of bright angels
+issue forth from the gates of heaven and wing their way from one planet
+to another, as each race was ready for the joyful tidings, and make
+this glad announcement?--‘Peace from heaven to this world! On Mars,
+your sister planet, a child was born, the Son of God, the Saviour of the
+universe. He lived a perfect life for your example, he died on the cross
+for your salvation. Believe in him, love him, follow him!’
+
+“We thought much on this point, wondering reverently how God had
+wrought. And now you have come to explain all the mystery, to answer all
+questions. One simple sentence tells it all: ‘Jesus died on the earth
+too.’
+
+“I see it perfectly now. Christ, the Lord of heaven, came to us in the
+fullness of time, took upon him the likeness of our flesh, lived nobly,
+was slain, rose again from the dead, and ascended into heaven to prepare
+blessed mansions for all his followers. So, too, in the fullness of your
+time, when the earth was ready for the great sacrifice, Christ offered
+himself again. He appeared in human form and lived among men as he had
+lived with us, pointing your race, also, to a home of peace and joy
+above.
+
+“Better than any announcement of angels of what had taken place in
+some other world was his actual life among you, going about doing good,
+shedding around him the spirit of love and self-denial, showing you the
+way to live, the way to die.
+
+“Among the vast multitude of peopled worlds which God has made, there
+is doubtless great variety in nature and condition. But if there are any
+others whose inhabitants were ever in our lost condition, let us hope
+and believe that the same great act of mercy has been shown to them
+which has so greatly blessed the planets of our own system.”
+
+Here, at Thorwald’s request, I told him briefly of the Saviour’s advent
+on the earth in the fulfillment of prophecy, of his beautiful life, and
+then of the marvelous improvement his religion had brought about as it
+spread in the world.
+
+Thorwald appeared intensely interested, and exclaimed: “Oh! how this
+truth you have told us does make brothers of us all, and how it will
+enhance the pleasure of our intercourse. Now in our future conversation
+we shall be in full sympathy, knowing that, though born so far apart, we
+are all followers of the same dear Master.
+
+“Zenith,” said Thorwald to his wife, who was sitting with us, “this is
+a happy day for us all. These earth-dwellers, these men who have come to
+visit our world, are not strangers; they are Christians. Think of it.”
+
+At this juncture I could not help studying the doctor’s face, for I knew
+this was the first time he had ever been called a Christian. In spite
+of the seriousness of the situation, I was obliged to indulge in a quiet
+smile to think he had to go all the way to Mars to be recognized in his
+true character. For although he would not acknowledge the divine source
+of it, he had imbibed a great deal of the real Christian spirit. But
+he had spent his life in seeking for scientific knowledge in various
+directions and was content, as he often said, to leave the unknowable
+without investigation. I wondered whether, in these novel circumstances,
+he would care to give voice to his agnosticism. But the doctor was
+honest or he was nothing, and he could not endure that Thorwald should
+rest under the false impression implied by his closing words. So with
+some effort, as I could see, he said:
+
+“I dislike exceedingly, Thorwald, to destroy the least particle of the
+effect of your eloquence, but I feel compelled to say that, as for me, I
+have never called myself a Christian.”
+
+“Not a Christian!” said Thorwald. “I do not understand you. But perhaps
+you use some other name. You surely do not mean that you turn aside from
+that divine being who came to the earth to save you.”
+
+“I do not know that such a being did come to the earth.”
+
+“What!” exclaimed Thorwald, “is there any doubt of it? Has your
+companion here been deceived? Must we give up our new-found joy?”
+
+“Oh, no, no,” answered the doctor hurriedly. “I suppose it is true that
+a good man named Jesus once lived on the earth and taught, and died a
+shameful death.”
+
+“A good man! Nothing more?”
+
+“I don’t know,” answered the doctor.
+
+“What do you believe?”
+
+“I do not allow myself to have any belief.”
+
+“Well, now, Doctor, you are a thinking being. Considering all you know
+about Jesus--his noble life, his character and the character of his
+teachings, and then the claims he made for himself--what do you think of
+him?”
+
+“Before such mysteries, and in answer to all questions relating to what
+is called the supernatural, I always say, ‘I do not know.’”
+
+“Well,” continued Thorwald, “do you think the life and death of a good
+man could set in motion forces that would so transform the world and
+give it such a start toward a higher and more perfect state?”
+
+To this the doctor replied:
+
+“In the early part of this conversation my companion told you he thought
+the condition of man on the earth was improving, or, in other words,
+that the earth was growing better. In that opinion he has many
+supporters, but it is only fair that you should know that some of us
+hold just the opposite view. We see so much evil in the world, evil that
+is unrebuked and growing stronger from year to year, so many forces at
+work dragging men downward and such fearful clouds ahead, that it seems
+to us that the good is overmatched, and that there is but little hope of
+a happy future for our race. I will also say, in order to be perfectly
+frank, that even if we should admit that our civilization was advancing,
+we should not attribute it to the influence of the Jewish reformer.”
+
+“Then,” said Thorwald, “if I understand your feeling, you have no love,
+no thanks even, for him who gave his life for you, and no sense of
+gratitude for the loving Father who sent his Son to die for your sins.”
+
+“I think you are hardly just,” replied the doctor, “for I am not
+conscious of living a life of ingratitude. Your words imply a great deal
+that I know nothing about. I am not aware that anyone was ever sent from
+heaven to die for me, and I do not even know there is a heaven and a
+God.”
+
+“Did it ever occur to you, Doctor, that your attitude does not alter the
+facts? In spite of your unbelief, or indifference if you will, there is
+a God whose steps are heard throughout the universe, whose hand upholds
+all worlds, and who looks with loving eyes upon all created beings, even
+upon those who have the intelligence but not the heart to acknowledge
+him. Oh! it is amazing to me that there can be one such being in all
+God’s dominions.”
+
+“Why, are there not any in Mars?”
+
+“In Mars? Not one. Let me tell you, Doctor, that here you will be
+unique, if that is any consolation to you. When this talk is made public
+and the facts in your case are spread abroad everybody will want a share
+in bringing you to your right mind, and we shall see what the result
+will be with a world full of missionaries to one heathen.”
+
+“Please do not use that word, Thorwald. I was born in Boston--you must
+know where Boston is--of good old Puritan stock, and I am not a heathen
+because I don’t know about some matters that I cannot, in the nature
+of things, know anything about. You found a while ago that I wanted
+imagination, and you now see that I am deficient also in faith, which it
+seems to me is a product of the imagination.”
+
+“No,” broke in Thorwald, “faith might rather be called the product of
+reason and of the conscience, enlightened by every revelation which
+God has made. But with us faith is an instinct. We believe in God as
+naturally as we trust our parents. Our souls reach after divine things
+to satisfy their longings, just as our bodies seek the food that shall
+nourish them. In all this world there is not a heart devoid of love to
+God, not one that does not own a personal and joyful allegiance to the
+divine Saviour.
+
+“But I forget that the earth is still young, and that, very long ago,
+when Mars was in your condition, representatives of our race actually
+walked the surface of this planet with no more thought of its Maker than
+you exhibit. Forgive me if, in this talk, I have seemed too positive of
+things which you claim cannot be known. But here there is no uncertainty
+in these matters. There is now no open question in regard to the
+existence of God and his loving care of us.”
+
+“But, Thorwald,” asked the doctor, “how can you be sure? Help me to
+see these things as you do. In the matter of the habitability of other
+worlds you brought me over to your opinion by producing evidence which
+took away all uncertainty and left me no room to doubt. Is it so in this
+case?”
+
+“No, my friend,” answered Thorwald, “it is not so. The evidence in this
+case is of an entirely different character. Your companion has told me
+how God has dealt with men, by what means he has made known his will,
+and how he has revealed his love and mercy to your race. So has it been
+with us, only here we have had more time to acquaint ourselves with
+these blessed truths. If you ask for proofs, I can only say they are the
+same which have no doubt been reiterated many times in your ears. The
+voices that come to us from the invisible world are not tuned to the
+coarse fiber of our physical nature, but are addressed to our spirits,
+our very selves, and he who does not heed those voices would not be
+persuaded even though one should rise from the dead.
+
+“Let me induce you, Doctor, to cultivate the spiritual part of your
+being, evidently undeveloped as yet, for only then will you begin to
+realize that the evidence in support of these divine truths is more
+convincing than any possible proofs that could be presented to our
+outward senses.”
+
+“Under your instruction,” said the doctor, “and with the example of a
+world full of spirits of your faith and practice, I will do my best
+to follow your advice, and try to catch some faint strain from those
+heavenly voices. If I cannot believe, it shall no longer be because I
+will not. But now, Thorwald, you have given too much time to me and have
+been drawn away from your purpose of enlightening us in regard to your
+wonderful planet.”
+
+“Yes, Thorwald,” said I, “we must hear more of your interesting history,
+and I think an account of what the religion of Jesus has done for Mars
+will help to win the doctor to right views.”
+
+“I shall take much pleasure in doing the best I can whenever you are
+good enough to listen,” Thorwald answered. “But we shall now be still
+more anxious to hear further about the earth.”
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXI.
+
+A LITTLE ANCIENT HISTORY.
+
+
+In the foregoing personal conversation, Thorwald had been uncompromising
+in look and tone, as well as in word, toward the errors of my friend,
+but for the doctor himself I was sure he had the kindest feelings. The
+discovery of the dearth of spiritual perception in the doctor was
+a greater surprise to Thorwald, I really believe, than our first
+appearance was. And it was a surprise well calculated to awaken in his
+finer nature a feeling as near akin to indignation as the Martian mind
+of that era was capable of experiencing. So we had here the opportunity
+of observing how a member of this highly civilized race, one endowed
+with such lofty attributes, would act under severe provocation. The
+exhibition was instructive. Thorwald certainly resented with all the
+force of his pure and upright nature all that was evil in the doctor’s
+attitude. Such doubt was entirely new to his experience. He had no place
+for it; and he could do no less than cry out against it as he had done.
+But his manner softened as soon as the doctor’s mood changed, and it
+was apparent that he was ready to encourage in every possible way
+the slightest indication of a change. And from this time Thorwald was
+particularly tender toward the doctor, evidently desiring to show him
+that, unbending to everything like disloyalty to God, he recognized his
+sincerity when he declared that he would no longer set his will against
+the reception of the truth.
+
+In this mind Thorwald said:
+
+“I perceive, Doctor, that your sturdy self-respect and the fear that
+you might appear in a false position have compelled you to be unfair to
+yourself. You believe more than you confess, else why did you repel with
+such feeling my insinuation that you were a heathen? But if you have
+ever determined to go through life believing in only what your hand can
+touch and your eye can see, let me induce you to close your eyes and
+fold your hands for a while, and with expectancy wait for the coming
+into your heart of that divine influence which, encouraged however
+feebly, shall presently show to your inner and better vision, in all his
+beauty, him whom no eye hath seen nor can see.
+
+“I do not exclude you therefore, Doctor, when I say again that we have
+all been drawn into close sympathy by the knowledge your companion has
+imparted, and in what I have to say further I am sure you will both see
+a great deal to cause you to realize that your race and ours have the
+same dear Father, who is guiding us to a common destiny.
+
+“At your request I am to give you from time to time, as we have
+opportunity, an account of the successive steps of our development, and
+I would like to say at the start that there will be one great difference
+between what I am to tell you and the rambling talk with which we began
+our happy acquaintance. Then I gave you a few facts to show our present
+condition, without intimating that there was any higher force at work
+than a natural desire in us to make the most of ourselves, and treat our
+neighbors well. Now, since I have discovered that you can enter into my
+feelings to a greater or less extent, I shall not hesitate to refer to
+its true source all that has helped us attain to our present condition,
+and all that is urging us on to a still higher state.”
+
+“We shall he very glad to know what you consider the spring of all the
+vast improvement in your race,” I remarked.
+
+“I did not use the word ‘consider,’” replied Thorwald. “That would imply
+doubt where there is none. It is established beyond controversy that
+both our material and spiritual development have come only through
+the personal love and care of God for the creatures whom he has made,
+exhibited through all our history, but especially through the sending of
+his Son.”
+
+“Some on the earth recognize the same truth in reference to our race,”
+ I said. “But, in general, people do not think much of such things, or if
+they think they do not say much. In fact, religious subjects are not as
+a rule popular in conversation.”
+
+“Why, what reason can there be for that?” Thorwald inquired with eager
+interest.
+
+“Oh, there is too much indifference in the matter,” I replied. “I
+suppose most men do not think their relations to their Maker important
+enough to give them any concern. And even the best among us shrink from
+urging their opinions on others, partly because they know they are
+not perfect examples themselves, and also from the feeling that their
+friends are intelligent beings and ought to know, as well as they do,
+what is best for them.”
+
+“Oh, then, my dear Doctor,” said Thorwald, “I perceive that I have
+committed a breach of etiquette in forcing this subject upon you, and
+in asking you to put yourself in the way of receiving spiritual
+impressions.”
+
+“In the circumstances, I think you are excusable,” replied the doctor;
+“and, besides, I believe I introduced the topic.”
+
+“If you stay long with us,” resumed Thorwald, “you will become
+accustomed to religious conversation, for here there is entire freedom
+in such matters. Our spiritual experiences and the great possibilities
+of the future state are exceedingly pleasant things to talk about, we
+think, and we feel no more sensitiveness in doing it than in conversing
+on the ordinary affairs of life. Being relieved of so many of the cares
+pertaining to your existence, our minds are the more prepared to occupy
+themselves with these high themes, and what is more natural than that
+we should often like to speak to each other about them? As these things
+become more real to you and the necessity of spending so much time in
+caring for the body diminishes, you will gradually lose your present
+feeling. You will also find that, in making these subjects familiar,
+they need not lose dignity and you need not lose reverence.”
+
+“Thorwald,” asked the doctor, “could you not give us a brief sketch of
+your career, so that we may compare it with that of our race?”
+
+“I will do the best I can,” answered Thorwald. “I think that is a good
+suggestion, and after that is done any of us can tell you the history of
+different epochs as opportunity offers. You are both such good listeners
+that it is a pleasure to talk to you, but I want you to promise to
+interrupt me with questions whenever you wish anything more fully
+explained.”
+
+We promised to do so, and Thorwald began:
+
+“Our world is very old. The geologic formations tell us of a time when
+no life could exist--long ages of convulsion and change in the crust
+of the globe. In time the conflict of the elements subsided and the
+boundaries between land and water were established. Then came vegetable
+life, rank and abundant, preparing stores of coal and oil for use in the
+far future. Animals followed, the first forms crude and monstrous,
+but succeeded by others better adapted to be the contemporaries and
+companions of our race.
+
+“The planet was now ready for its destiny, and it was put into the hands
+of intelligent beings, made in the image of their Creator. This race
+started in the highest conceivable state, perfect in body, mind, and
+spirit. The material world was soon subdued to their use, and paradise
+reigned below. We do not know how long this condition lasted, but in
+some way sin entered and all was changed. Sorrow and death came, and a
+thousand ills to vex us. Another period passed, and the race had become
+so wicked that it could not be allowed to exist. A pestilence swept
+over the world, and all but one tribe perished. Through this remnant the
+world was repeopled, but sin and woe remained, to be driven out at last
+only by a struggle too great for the arm of flesh alone.
+
+“But the conflict began in hope, a hope inspired by the voice of God.
+From the very entrance of sin help from above had been promised in the
+person of one who should conquer evil, and through whom the race might
+be restored to a much higher position even than that from which it had
+fallen. Slowly the spirit of good, which is the spirit of God, worked
+upon the heart, and in all ages there were some who walked in that
+spirit. By one such soul God raised up a people to whom he committed his
+message to the race, and through whom, at a later day, he fulfilled the
+promise. Among this people there arose many faithful ones, and by them,
+from time to time, God added to his message, acting as the personal
+guide and defender of his people, and leading them by every path until
+they finally knew him, in every fiber of their being, to be the only
+God.
+
+“Prophets, too, there were among them, who, under divine guidance,
+foretold a time of universal peace, when the kingdom of Christ should
+come in all hearts and when even the beasts of the field should dwell
+together in unity.”
+
+“Why, we have just such prophecies,” said I, “but they are generally
+interpreted figuratively. Do you really think they will be literally
+fulfilled on the earth?”
+
+“Well,” answered Thorwald, “I have already told you what has come to
+pass here, and I will leave you to judge from our experience as to what
+will come of the prophecies that have been made to you. From all you
+have said at one time and another, I can see plenty of evidence that the
+earth is traveling the same road with us, and I have no doubt it will
+one day reach even a higher condition than the one we now enjoy.
+
+“At length, when the time was ripe, God sent the promised Saviour. He,
+the Lord of heaven, came and lived as one of us. He gathered around him
+a few faithful souls, he preached his gospel of light and comfort to
+the poor, and wept over the very woes he had come down to remove. His
+humility proved a stumbling-block to the selfishness of the world, and
+his own nation rejected him. He conquered death and returned to his
+Father’s home, but his spirit, which had always been present in some
+measure, now came with force, and began, through his followers, the task
+of regenerating the race.
+
+“A feeble church, planted thus amid sin and darkness, took deep root
+in loyal hearts, grew strong with persecution, and soon kindled a light
+which pierced the darkness and gradually spread its illumination
+over all our planet. The history of that church is the history of our
+development. The race has not come so far toward its maturity without a
+mighty struggle. The long course of preparation for the present higher
+condition has had many interruptions and obstructions. There have been
+dark ages of stagnation and threatened defeat, and there have been
+ages of hope and advancement. Through all this history the light of the
+gospel, though often obscured, has never been extinguished, and every
+step of progress that has been made in our condition is to be traced
+directly to that light. We have not always been able to realize that;
+but, now that we understand more fully our wonderful career, we see how
+true it is that we have been led by a divine hand.”
+
+“Do you mean,” I asked, “that your vast improvement in material affairs
+has come through Christianity?”
+
+“Certainly,” answered Thorwald. “Our civilization has walked hand in
+hand with true religion, and in all ages every permanent advance in our
+condition has come through the influence of the spirit of good, which
+is always urging us to a higher and better state. In our progress many
+mistakes have been made, with consequences so serious as to threaten at
+the time our final defeat; but a higher power has led us through all our
+troubles to a place of safety, where we can survey with gratitude the
+field of conflict. If you so desire, I can relate to you at another time
+some of the mistakes which have at times set us back in our march toward
+a physical and spiritual superiority.”
+
+We were pleased to notice by this last remark of Thorwald’s that he had
+still in reserve many things to tell us, and we so expressed ourselves
+to him.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXII.
+
+AGAIN THE MOON.
+
+
+Days passed and brought no news of Mona. I did all in my power to appear
+cheerful, but often made a dismal failure of it. No one could help me,
+and Thorwald, though sympathetic like all the rest, would allow me no
+false hopes. He said a systematic and thorough search had been made,
+both on land and water, without result, and he could see no prospect
+of any success in the future. But, while I could see that Thorwald was
+about ready to abandon in despair the attempt to find Mona, I would not
+give up hope. I did not know at the time what excellent reasons Thorwald
+had for his feeling, for I did not realize how very complete the search
+had been, but my own faith was not founded on reason. I simply refused
+to believe that I should never see again the object of such deep love.
+
+While affairs were in this condition, Thorwald said to us one morning:
+
+“I wonder you have not been more anxious to see one of our flying
+machines. Our system of aerial navigation is one of the most enjoyable
+of our material blessings, and I shall take great pleasure in giving you
+a taste of it.”
+
+“I think one reason,” I answered, “why we have not asked about it is
+because we have had so many other interesting things to see, and then
+you know we had our share of traveling in the air in coming to you.
+However, we shall be delighted to see your method at any time when you
+are pleased to exhibit it.”
+
+“Very well,” said Thorwald; “then we will get up an expedition at once.
+Zenith and Avis will accompany us, I think; and as we shall probably
+fall in with Foedric, we will send for Antonia to go also.”
+
+“That will make a pleasant party,” I said.
+
+We found all were glad to go and witness our introduction to a modern
+air ship, and we were soon off.
+
+Not far from the house we found a luxurious carriage of just the right
+size for us all. We did not see another like it anywhere about, and I
+was moved to ask:
+
+“How does it happen, Thorwald, that exactly the kind of conveyance you
+want is ready without any prearrangement? This sort of carriage does not
+appear to be very plentiful.”
+
+“Things generally ‘happen,’ as you call it, for our convenience,” he
+said. “Is it not so with you to some extent? If all the people wanted to
+travel in your cars on the same day and at the same hour, they could not
+easily be accommodated, but some dispensation divides them up so that
+there are, I presume, about the same number who find it necessary or
+convenient to travel each day. This subject has been studied by us, and
+we believe that even these details of our lives are all arranged by him
+to whom nothing is small, nothing great.”
+
+A pleasant ride of a few miles brought us to a seaport, and to a
+scene of much activity. It seemed to be a great distributing point, as
+numerous loads of many kinds of goods were moving about, and immense
+stores of fruit and vegetables were to be seen. These products of the
+soil were of bewildering variety and surpassing richness, showing us
+that agriculture, providing most of the food of the people, must be a
+favorite science with many, and one that brought rich rewards. It was
+pleasing to see everything going on in such a quiet, orderly manner, and
+so many people at work without friction and with no look of fret, hurry,
+or fatigue. Everyone seemed to be enjoying his work, if that could be
+called work which looked so much like pleasure.
+
+After riding through several busy streets we drew near an imposing
+structure, which Thorwald told us was the front of the aerial station.
+At the same time he directed our attention to the sky, and we saw a
+number of air ships sailing leisurely along, some just starting out
+and others apparently returning home. The doctor and I had our interest
+quickened by this sight and were anxious for a closer view. As the fact
+of riding in the air was not new to us, we had not been much excited by
+the prospect of seeing how the Martians did it. But these ships were
+so different from anything we had ever seen before that we began to
+anticipate a great deal from our excursion after all.
+
+Going through the building, we came into an immense court or open space,
+large enough, one would suppose, for the fleets of a nation. Here were
+a great number of flying machines of various sizes, all gayly decorated
+with pleasing colors, and many of them, apparently, waiting for
+passengers. Thorwald selected one of medium size, and as we approached,
+whom should we find in charge but our young friend Foedric? In answer to
+Thorwald’s question, he told us that both he and his vessel were at our
+service, and we proceeded to mount to our seats in the car.
+
+Foedric pulled a small lever, and we began to rise. He then expressed
+his pleasure to the doctor and me that he had the opportunity of making
+our further acquaintance.
+
+“We are taking them for the ride,” said Thorwald, “and you may choose
+any course and go to any height you please.”
+
+We thanked Foedric for his pleasant words, and then he showed us about
+the car and explained its conveniences. It was quite large, with a
+number of apartments and accommodations sufficient for a dozen people
+both day and night. Besides the ordinary furnishings for comfortable
+living, we saw air-condensing machines for use in lofty flights, a
+good-sized telescope, instruments for measuring speed and height, and
+other scientific apparatus of much of which we were obliged to ask the
+use.
+
+Although Foedric was so much younger than Thorwald, he was taller and
+larger every way--a magnificent specimen of a magnificent race. In
+speaking to Thorwald he showed a proper respect for his greater age, and
+he bore himself becomingly in the presence of Zenith; but there was not
+the slightest sign of subserviency, nor anything to show that, though
+engaged in what might be called a lowly occupation, he was not on terms
+of perfect equality and even friendship with them. This easy poise of
+manner would not have surprised us had we known what Thorwald soon told
+us, and from this experience we learned never to judge a Martian by the
+work he happened to be doing.
+
+“Foedric is a scholar,” said Thorwald, “and is engaged just now in
+writing a treatise on the color of sounds.”
+
+This announcement was a double surprise, for we would have said, if he
+was writing anything, that it must be something about ballooning--the
+application of electricity to flying machinery, perhaps. But Thorwald
+further enlightened us, the talk going on in Foedric’s presence:
+
+“He was attracted to that subject by the fact that he possesses in a
+striking degree the faculty of hearing color, which belongs only to
+refined minds. We all have this power to some extent, but in this, as
+in so many other things, there are great differences among us. As an
+example of this power, if you will excuse me, Doctor, I will tell you
+that your voice is dark blue, while yours,” he continued, turning to me,
+“is yellow. Foedric, a true son of Mars, speaks red, and as for Zenith,
+her soft, pink voice has always been to me one of her principal charms,
+and though it would be folly to deny that she has changed some in
+appearance (not for the worse, however) since I first knew her, her
+voice has retained the same tone or color. I will ask Foedric if I am
+correct in my impressions.”
+
+“Quite correct,” answered Foedric. “When I first heard your friend, the
+doctor, speak I thought his voice was brown, but it has changed since
+to such an extent that I think as you do--that the prevailing tinge is
+a deep blue. Such cases are not unknown among us, but they are not
+frequent.”
+
+“If the color of my voice sympathizes with my thoughts,” said the
+doctor, “I do not wonder that your quick ears have noticed a change.”
+
+“I ought to say,” resumed Foedric, “that I have to rely on my friends to
+tell me the shade of my own voice, for to my ears it is as colorless as
+a piece of the clearest glass, and this is the common experience.”
+
+“I would like to ask about the color of Antonia’s voice,” I said, “and
+Avis’s, too.”
+
+“Antonia’s is a beautiful green,” answered Foedric, looking with a
+smile at the fair one, “and Avis, both in song and speech, has your
+color--yellow.”
+
+“Foedric,” said Thorwald, “tell our friends what you and others are
+trying to discover in connection with the air vibrations. It may be
+suggestive to them.”
+
+“I can claim but little part in the work,” Foedric responded, “but it
+is this. Our ears report to our brain the air waves until they reach
+a frequency of forty thousand in a second, and we call the sensation
+sound. When the vibrations of the ether are more rapid than that, we
+have no sense with which to receive the impression until they reach the
+great number of four hundred million millions in a second. Then they
+affect the eye and produce red light, and as they increase still more
+the color becomes orange, then yellow, green, blue, and violet. Perhaps
+your limitations are not the same as ours, but our scientists are trying
+to discover some means by which we can arrest and make use of a small
+part at least of those waves which strike our bodies at a frequency
+between forty thousand and four hundred million millions. It is still an
+unsolved problem, this search for another sense, and we are now
+looking forward for help in the task to the studies of the civilization
+represented in our comet.”
+
+All this time we were rising slowly but hardly realizing it, being
+filled with that peculiar sensation, incident to balloon journeys, by
+which we could almost believe we were remaining about in the same place
+and the solid ground was falling away from us.
+
+Now Foedric increased our speed and showed us how easily he could
+sail in any direction and at any rate he pleased, explaining to us the
+mechanism by which we were upheld and propelled, and also the way
+in which the current of electricity was generated and applied. They
+certainly had a wonderful method of producing great power with little
+weight, and the doctor eagerly drank in the information in regard to it,
+as if for future use.
+
+It was charming. The atmosphere was as clear as crystal, the air balmy
+and the motion delightful, and if the Martians, with their purer
+nature and keener senses, enjoyed the trip that morning more than we
+earth-dwellers did, then their capacity for enjoyment must have been
+beyond ours. The ship seemed to be under perfect control; there was
+nothing uncertain in her movements, and as we went sailing along without
+fear of harm, in the very poetry of motion, the doctor and I realized
+over and over again that we had much to learn in this method of
+navigation.
+
+Now we were riding at a good height, and our vision could take in a wide
+expanse of land and water. The peculiarity of the surface of Mars was
+noticeable, the seas being long, narrow inlets, as it were, running
+through or between winding strings of land, a decided contrast to the
+great oceans and noble continents of our mother earth. It seemed to
+me that this was much to the advantage of the earth, and so I was bold
+enough to say:
+
+“When I used to look at a map of Mars, Thorwald, I remember thinking
+that the planet was not a handsome one, whatever might be the character
+of its inhabitants. But I have no doubt you have an answer for me which
+will give some good reason for the peculiar structure of the surface of
+Mars and make me ashamed of my sentimental preference for the earth.”
+
+“I certainly hope you will hear nothing while you are with us to make
+you ashamed of your own planet,” said Thorwald; “but I must tell you the
+truth in regard to Mars. How do you like our climate, as far as you have
+experienced it?”
+
+“We have enjoyed it exceedingly,” I answered, “and I have been on the
+point of remarking several times that we were fortunate in making our
+visit here at so pleasant a season of the year.”
+
+“But,” said Thorwald, “you could not have come in a worse season, for
+we have none worse than this. The temperature varies enough to give
+variety, but not enough in either direction to cause discomfort. Each
+season is quite distinctive from the others, but each has its peculiar
+charm and all are equally enjoyable. Our telescopes tell us it is not
+so on the earth, for we can see the winter snow creep well down on its
+surface and remain there several months, then go away and come on the
+other hemisphere. We know this means great changes of climate, and as
+the inclination of the axis of the earth to the plane of its orbit is
+about the same as that of the axis of Mars, we believe we would have
+equally violent changes were it not for the fortunate distribution of
+land and water on our planet. All those narrow seas which disfigure our
+surface in your eyes, are in reality vast rivers, which are constantly
+bearing the water from one part of the globe to another. The warm water
+of the equatorial regions is carried to the cold countries north and
+south, and the water thus displaced cools in its turn the lands more
+directly under the sun. Thus the temperature of all parts is nearly
+equalized. In the summer in this latitude the water that washes our
+shores is cool and in the winter it is warm, and the strips of land
+are so narrow that all places feel the influence, making the climate
+delightful everywhere. At each pole there is a spot of perpetual snow,
+but these are comparatively small, and the fields are cultivated right
+up to the foot of the snow hills.”
+
+This recital excited the doctor’s interest amazingly, and as Thorwald
+closed he said:
+
+“I rather think my companion did not expect so complete an answer, but
+I am glad his words suggested to you this statement, Thorwald. It is
+of great value to us in our study of your remarkable planet. How
+wonderfully God has adapted everything to your comfort and well-being!”
+
+Thorwald smiled in appreciation of the doctor’s final words, but before
+he had time to speak we were a little startled by the red voice of
+Foedric, calling out:
+
+“The moon! Look!”
+
+It was nothing new for any of us now to look at our old moon. We had
+seen it almost every day, had talked much about it, and thought the
+novelty of its companionship to Mars about worn off. But our present
+high position and the clear, thin atmosphere gave it quite a changed
+appearance, as it was slowly coming into view above the horizon. We
+watched it in silence for a while and saw it mount the eastern sky, and
+I think all of us except Foedric had the same thought, that it appeared
+to be much nearer than usual. Foedric had seen it before from the same
+height, and knew when he called our attention to it that we were going
+to be surprised.
+
+As the moon rose still higher it appeared to be coming toward us,
+instead of aiming at a point far over our heads, and our next sensation
+was caused by Zenith, who mildly exclaimed:
+
+“It cannot be more than a few miles away. Why not go and make it a
+visit?”
+
+To her surprise, if people of such high endowments ever are surprised,
+Thorwald asked quickly:
+
+“Are you willing to try it if the rest of us are?”
+
+“Certainly,” she replied.
+
+“Foedric,” said Thorwald, “what do you say to flying out to the moon and
+attempting an invasion of it?”
+
+“I say,” answered Foedric, “that I am ready. We have provisions
+enough for several days, and I believe the capacity of our battery is
+sufficient for the trip.” Thorwald learned from Avis and Antonia that
+they would not object to the trial, and then said:
+
+“Well, we have a good majority, but must not think of deciding on so
+important a step unless the feeling is unanimous. Let us hear from our
+friends here, who have had some experience with the moon.”
+
+The doctor said pleasantly that he should like nothing better than the
+proposed experiment, and, as I was the last, I remarked that I could
+not spoil such an interesting project by withholding my consent. But it
+seemed to me all the time that the whole thing was a joke and that
+it would end at once in a laugh. I thought of the cold and cheerless
+surface of the moon, comparing it in my mind with the delectable world
+we were leaving, and had no relish for the proposed trip. Something of
+my feeling must have been reflected in my countenance, for Zenith, who
+had been looking at me, said in a sympathetic tone:
+
+“Although you gave your consent, you look as if you did not enjoy the
+prospect of another visit to the moon.”
+
+Thorwald heard this remark, and after a glance at me he said:
+
+“You are right, Zenith, and I think we will abandon the idea at once.
+We started out today for the purpose of entertaining the doctor and his
+friend, and it would not become us to treat them to more of a ride than
+they desire.”
+
+“You are both excellent mind readers,” I responded. “And if I were as
+honest as you Martians are, I suppose I should have said in the first
+place that I preferred not to make such an extended journey. I suspect
+the doctor is willing to go ahead, as he is too sensible to be affected
+by such a feeling as now moves me. My thoughts turn back to our
+departure from the earth in a balloon, and I cannot rid my mind of
+the dreadful fear that perhaps we are now unconsciously bidding a long
+farewell to Mars.”
+
+Thorwald thanked me for my frankness and said they should certainly
+respect my sentiment. He then stepped to Foedric’s side to speak to him
+in regard to a change of course. At that moment I looked at the moon,
+which had been rapidly approaching us. What was it that suddenly gave it
+a deeper interest to me? A flash of intelligence suffused my being
+like an electric shock, frilling my imagination with the most beautiful
+vision and making the moon appear to me now as the one desirable place
+in all the universe.
+
+“Thorwald,” I exclaimed, “keep right on! I want to go now. I have
+changed my mind.”
+
+“Yes,” he responded, looking at me with a pleased smile, “and I see you
+have changed your face, too. You look like quite another man. Why this
+sudden transition?”
+
+“Don’t you know? Mona is there.”
+
+“Where?”
+
+“In the moon, of course.”
+
+“How do you know that? You seem to be pretty confident.”
+
+“Why, she must be there. You couldn’t find her on land or water, and you
+know you have no accidents in Mars, so she could not have come to any
+harm there. I know we shall find her in the moon. She must have been
+left behind in some way when the doctor and I were thrown off, and
+now she is no doubt expecting us to come back to her. Oh, let us make
+haste.”
+
+“Well,” answered Thorwald, “we were only waiting your consent, and we
+can now keep on as we are going and try to reach the moon. But I must
+give you a friendly warning not to let your hope get the better of your
+judgment in regard to finding your friend.”
+
+With this Thorwald and Foedric consulted a moment, and at once our speed
+increased till we were flying at a fearful rate, but none too fast for
+me. I knew now why I had been so reluctant to go so far away from
+Mars. It was because I thought Mona was there; but now, with my present
+opinion, the moon had suddenly changed its character and become to my
+imagination a bright and beautiful world. To such a degree does love
+transform the most unlovely objects.
+
+I was struck with the easy way in which Zenith had accepted the result
+of what I thought her sportive suggestion, and, not being able to fathom
+her thoughts, I said to her:
+
+“When we left home, this morning, you did not expect to be gone over
+night. Have you no anxiety about the house and the children?”
+
+“Oh, no,” she replied; “the house will not run away, nor the children
+either. We do not often stay away from them over night, but we do not
+hesitate to do so when we have a good reason for it. Our children know
+us well enough to be sure we have such a reason now, and this faith
+in us and in our safe return will permit us to stay away as long as we
+please. As for our feelings, we have no such thing as anxiety, for all
+our experience teaches us that no harm of any kind can come to our loved
+ones. I suppose in such circumstances on the earth both the mother and
+the children would have a feeling of great fear, caused by the fact that
+there would be in reality some danger of harm, but here we have never
+heard of such a thing, and even the word ‘danger’ has little meaning in
+it to us, because all we know about it comes from our reading.” The moon
+was now well above us, and we were making for a point in the western
+sky where Foedric hoped to intercept it. We were already so far from
+the planet that the air was getting weak, so we all put on breathing
+machines. These were of such perfect construction that our lungs had
+free play, nor were they cumbersome enough to interfere much with our
+movements.
+
+By this time the moon had grown so vastly, owing to our swift traveling,
+that our friends began to be amazed at its enormous proportions. The
+jagged, mountainous surface was plainly visible, a most uninviting place
+for people accustomed to the serene beauty and felicity of the planet
+Mars.
+
+“Remember,” said the doctor, “that you are not to judge the earth by
+what you see of her old satellite.”
+
+“Well,” answered Thorwald, “we mean to see what we can of the satellite.
+Foedric, let us point the glass at it and be selecting a place to land.”
+
+But Foedric was obliged to let Thorwald handle the glass alone, for his
+attention was needed just now to manage our craft. He had discovered
+that shutting off the power did not diminish the speed, and for a moment
+he was puzzled, quite a new sensation for a Martian of that era. But he
+soon studied out the difficulty and made the following announcement:
+
+“I find this huge mass that we are approaching is pulling us toward its
+surface, so that we are using but little power. I expect in a short time
+we can merely fall to its surface.”
+
+This suggested to Thorwald the very trouble that the doctor and I had
+encountered with our balloon, and he asked Foedric if we could get away
+again after we had dropped to the moon.
+
+“Yes,” Foedric answered, “I am sure we have power enough here to
+overcome the attraction and get away whenever we please.”
+
+Thorwald, who had been intently studying the surface through the
+telescope, now spoke out with some excitement in his voice:
+
+“Doctor, I begin to think you did not make a thorough investigation of
+the moon’s condition. Did you not report it practically uninhabited?”
+
+“Our means of investigation were rather limited,” replied the doctor,
+“but we surely found no inhabitants except poor Mona, whom, I am
+confident, we shall never see again. Why do you ask? Are there any
+signs of life visible? I have no doubt you Martians can see more at this
+distance than we could when standing on the globe itself.”
+
+“Well,” Thorwald answered, “either you reached wrong conclusions or else
+a race has grown up there pretty rapidly. I cannot make out anything
+definite yet, but there is smoke, I am sure, and I can see some object
+moving about.”
+
+I had great difficulty in restraining my feelings as Thorwald uttered
+these words, but neither he nor the doctor seemed to realize what
+significance they had for me. Both had apparently given up all
+expectation of finding Mona anywhere, and these evidences of life, so
+plain to me, were therefore inexplicable to them. I controlled myself
+and begged Thorwald to let me look through the glass. He adjusted it
+for me, but before I could get a satisfactory view our swift motion made
+such a change in the appearance of the surface that Thorwald could not
+find the same spot again.
+
+As no one said a word to indicate any thought of connecting Mona with
+the movements that Thorwald had observed, I determined that I would keep
+quiet also and await the result of our landing. I let my thoughts fly to
+my love, who, without doubt, had seen the approach of our air ship and
+was expecting our speedy arrival. What an addition she would make to our
+party, and how these Martians would study her history as she recounted
+it in that exquisite voice. But I should claim a large share of her time
+for myself. How glad I was to think that Foedric had so openly shown his
+affection for Antonia. Surely I need not harbor the jealous feeling that
+would arise, for so true a son of Mars could not fall to the level of
+some earthly men, and be unfaithful to so noble a girl as Antonia. It
+was beyond all reason, and yet my love for Mona, whom I thought we were
+soon to find, was such that I undesignedly but still unmistakably made
+up my mind to keep a close watch on handsome Foedric.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIII.
+
+WE SEARCH FOR MONA.
+
+
+We were indeed approaching the surface with great rapidity, and Foedric
+was obliged to put on power to prevent us from falling too swiftly.
+Fortunately he was able to keep our ship under perfect management, and
+so, without accident or even a shock, he brought us gently to land,
+not far from the spot where Thorwald had seen the signs of life. It was
+something new for the latter to show so much curiosity, but he could not
+be more eager than I was to attempt to find out what we had seen through
+the telescope. So, leaving the rest of the party, we two started out to
+investigate. It was kind of Thorwald to take me along, because he could
+ordinarily walk a great deal faster without me, but my love and hope now
+added wings to my feet and I surprised him with my agility.
+
+Thorwald’s skill in determining locality enabled him to choose the right
+direction, and after quite a walk we ascended a considerable hill, from
+which we were delighted to discover in the distance a small column of
+smoke--a remarkable sight on that sterile shore. We hastened toward it,
+Thorwald with high expectations of an important discovery, and I with a
+heart beating with joyful anticipations of a different character.
+
+As we approached the spot of such intense interest for us both, I
+watched my companion closely to see how he would bear the disappointment
+which I felt sure awaited him; and this, I think, made it a
+little easier for me to endure my own grief, for, of course, I was
+disappointed, too. I ought to have known better than to expect to find
+Mona out on the bleak surface, when she had such a comfortable home
+inside the moon. What we found at the end of our journey was merely
+another party of Martians, who had stolen a march on us and made a prior
+invasion of the moon. But so unselfish were they that when they saw our
+ship afar off they began to make a smudge and smoke in order to attract
+our attention and give us the opportunity of sharing with them the glory
+of their anticipated discoveries. They were pleased with our success in
+finding them, and proposed that we join our forces in a common camp. So,
+leaving me, Thorwald returned for the rest of our party, and in due time
+we were all together, conversing on the footing of old acquaintances.
+The moon had improved somewhat since we knew it, as everything must
+which remains in the vicinity of the planet Mars, but it was not yet,
+as far as the outside, at least, was concerned, a desirable place for a
+long sojourn.
+
+Our new friends had, unlike us, started from home with the intention of
+making the attempt to land on the moon, and, having come prepared with
+tools for a little scientific work, had already begun investigating,
+with a view to finding out whether the moon contained any vestiges of
+life. They had heard of the doctor and me and the outlines of our story,
+but now we had to relate to them in detail all our experience on the
+moon, while I concluded my part of the narration with the statement of
+my firm conviction that Mona was still in her quiet refuge, waiting for
+us to return and rescue her. This interested them exceedingly, and they
+were eager to join us in searching for her.
+
+The members of our party, catching something of my hope, were ready
+to enter at once upon this task, and it was decided to divide all our
+forces into two companies, one to be led by the doctor and the other
+by me, and then to start in different directions to try to find the
+entrance to that long passage into the interior. As we knew not on what
+part of the moon’s surface we had alighted, we were undertaking a
+bold piece of work, but its apparent difficulty had no terrors for the
+Martians, and I should not have hesitated if the circumference of the
+moon had been a hundred times what it was. As for the doctor, he had too
+much spirit to suggest any obstacles.
+
+We arranged a code of signals, and agreed that if either party were
+successful the other should be notified and the descent made only when
+all had come together. After dividing the provisions we made our adieus
+and separated, not knowing when we should see one another again.
+
+But, fortunately, our elaborate preparations were not of much use, for
+before we had been out an hour the doctor signaled to me that he
+had found some familiar landmarks. This meant that he was sure of
+discovering what we were in search of, and accordingly we started at
+once to rendezvous with his company. On our arrival I recognized, with
+exultant joy, the features of the landscape which had attracted the
+doctor’s attention. We now led the way with complete assurance, and came
+at length to the crater down whose side Mona had so strangely led us.
+The wind was not so strong now, but I was none the less eager to descend
+and enter that dark way, at the other end of which such happiness
+awaited me. By this time, also, the whole party were becoming enthused
+over the situation. When they came to see, one after another, features
+which they had heard us describe, they acquired a personal interest
+which had been impossible before, and everyone began to share my faith
+in regard to Mona.
+
+As we entered the tunnel, the doctor and myself still in the lead, I
+called Avis and asked her to keep as near me as possible.
+
+“I am flattered,” she said, “but what do you want to have me do?”
+
+“Sing,” I answered.
+
+“What for? You needn’t be afraid of the dark, for we can give you light
+enough.”
+
+And at that instant out flashed half a dozen lamps from different
+members of the party, a timely illustration of the use of their portable
+electricity.
+
+“No, Avis,” I said, “I am not afraid, but I would like to recall
+something of the sensation of our first descent into the moon, when we
+were led, as you know, by the sound of beautiful music. And then, as
+we near the end, Mona may hear you, and that would be a more gentle
+introduction than if we should burst upon her unannounced. I know she
+is not subject to fear or the usual emotions to which I have been
+accustomed on the earth, but still I think she would like to have us
+come back to her heralded by your noble song.”
+
+Seeing how serious I was in the matter, Avis promised to do as I wished,
+only suggesting that all the rest should join her from time to time. So,
+without any unpleasant incident, we traversed the long passage, walking
+rapidly by the aid of the light and conversing about our interesting
+situation. It was a rare and pleasing experience for the doctor and
+me to be showing these wise Martians something new, and we enjoyed the
+novel sensation of watching their excitement. The fact that we could so
+satisfactorily entertain our friends after their own fashion with us was
+something long to be remembered.
+
+But not another one of all the company had the intensity of feeling
+which filled my breast. Knowing that every downward step was leading me
+rapidly toward a determination of my fate, I could scarcely control my
+emotions. Either I was soon to find my heart’s life and be raised to the
+highest pinnacle of happiness, or I was to undergo a disappointment from
+which I might not recover. For if Mona was not here, where could I look
+for her? Could I ever regain my hopeful spirits if I should lose her
+now? I tried to crowd out these dark forebodings by thinking of my love
+and trying to picture the scene in the midst of which we should discover
+her.
+
+At length we were drawing near the end. The path was growing wider,
+which proved to the doctor and me that we should soon emerge into the
+open village. Indeed, a faint gleam of light was beginning to be seen
+far in the front. We now pushed on more rapidly, and as we approached
+the exit Avis was singing at her highest pitch. She stopped suddenly,
+and then a low and distant strain came to us, sweet even to the ears of
+our cultured friends from Mars. My heart beat wildly as Thorwald, who
+was close behind us, exclaimed:
+
+“Hark, hear the echo!”
+
+“Ho!” I cried, “that’s not an echo. That’s the original, and Avis is the
+echo. Sing out again, Avis.”
+
+A loud, clear note trembled on the air, and brought back to our
+straining sense, not a repetition of itself but a snatch of varied
+melody which showed it to be no echo, although evidently an answer.
+There have been few moments in my life more crowded with happiness than
+that one. And it was not a passive feeling of enjoyment, but one that
+spurred me to action. The swift pace which we had all by this time
+reached was now too slow for me. Seized again by the same fierce passion
+which took possession of me at my first acquaintance with Mona’s voice,
+I started in her direction on a run, flinging aside everything that
+might impede me, so overmastered was I by my desire to see her.
+
+But my unreasonable haste brought me a grievous reward. I leaped over
+the ground with great rapidity for a few minutes, and then, stepping on
+a treacherous stone, turned my ankle and fell heavily to the ground, my
+head, thrust forward in running, being the first point of contact with
+the cruel rocks.
+
+I returned to consciousness by degrees. My faithful ears were, as usual,
+the first friends to renew acquaintance with me, and the sound they
+brought was so soothing that I wished for nothing more than to remain as
+I was, ears only, and listen to it forever. But this was impossible, as
+I was slowly recovering my other senses and becoming a thinking being
+once more. I now recognized the pleasant sound as the music of a
+familiar voice; yes, it was Mona’s voice in conversation. I was sure of
+that, but it seemed so natural that I was not startled. I felt that I
+must remain perfectly quiet, or the spell would be broken and the
+music cease. Then I began to wonder where I was and who were with me. I
+recalled the circumstances of our descent into the moon and my fall as
+I was running to meet Mona. My mind was active, but I feared that I was
+physically weak, for I did not seem to have even a desire to move. I
+wanted to see the face of the dear girl, and it is remarkable that I
+did not open my eyes at once and call her by name. But I was not in a
+natural state. The feeling was not sufficiently strong to move me to
+action. I was just conscious enough to be passively happy, content to
+lie there quietly and enjoy one thing at a time.
+
+Hitherto I had not tried to distinguish the words, so satisfied was I
+with the exquisite tones, but now my attention was compelled by this
+yellow expression:
+
+“So I understand you to say he would not give me up as lost?”
+
+It was the pink voice of Zenith that answered:
+
+“No, indeed. He never faltered in his faith that you would be found. You
+owe it to him that you can soon leave this worn-out world with us, and
+we are indebted to him for giving us such a dear friend.”
+
+“And he admired my singing?” said Mona in a questioning tone.
+
+“Yes, and everything pertaining to you. He never tired of rehearsing
+your perfections, and the doctor tells us he loved you from the very
+first. He certainly seems most devoted to you. I hope, my dear, that you
+love him.”
+
+I was now recovered enough to feel some compunctions about listening
+further to this conversation, but that is not saying that I had any
+great desire to stop listening. I knew that in Mona’s answer to Zenith’s
+implied question lay my fate, and my moral doubts were not strong enough
+to make me do anything to keep it back. It has been said on the earth
+that people who surreptitiously hear themselves spoken of are never
+pleased, but things must be quite different inside the moon, for,
+without a shadow of hesitation and in the sweetest air that ever floated
+from her lips, came Mona’s answer:
+
+“Love him? Certainly I love him. Why should I not? I loved him when he
+was here before, and I should be very ungrateful if I did not care a
+great deal more for him when I know what he has done for me, and that he
+now lies here suffering for my sake.”
+
+“Oh, Mona,” I said to myself, “if this be suffering, let me never know
+happiness.”
+
+Zenith began to speak again, when she was interrupted by the opening
+of a door. I heard someone walk towards me, and then the doctor’s voice
+broke the silence.
+
+“How is he, Mona? Is there any change?”
+
+“No,” replied my beloved, “he hasn’t stirred nor shown a sign of
+consciousness. Cannot something more be done for him?”
+
+I was becoming a little hardened in my guilt by this time, and, although
+my strength seemed now to be returning to me, I decided to keep still
+yet longer and hear what words of wisdom the doctor would utter on my
+case.
+
+“I know of nothing that can be done,” he said. “He received no injury
+except the wound on his head, and that, apparently, is not serious.
+Time is the great healer in such cases. My chief fear is that when he
+recovers consciousness we will find his memory is defective, as it was
+after his plunge into your ocean, Zenith. He will doubtless forget how
+we ever got into this strange place, and I am almost sure he will not
+recognize Mona, for that was the direction in which he failed before.”
+
+“But you forget,” said Zenith, “that Mona herself will be here to sing
+for him.”
+
+“I fear not even that will recall his wandering wits this time. You know
+he is more badly hurt than before. I dislike to cause you pain, Mona,
+but I must be frank and tell you that our friend will probably never
+know you again.”
+
+One would naturally expect Mona to have burst into tears at this
+hopeless prospect, but instead of that she sang out, as joyously as
+ever:
+
+“Never mind me, Doctor. Only restore him to health and happiness, and
+it will be of little moment whether he remembers me or not. No one knows
+better than you do that I am always happy, that’s why I am singing all
+the time.”
+
+Such unselfishness as this was more than I could appreciate, and rather
+more, I thought, than was called for by the circumstances. How could she
+love me so, and still not care if I never were to know her again? Was
+she the same Mona, after all, who had so provokingly eluded my love
+during my former visit? These reflections caused me to decide to come to
+life, and claim her as mine before she resigned all her interest in me.
+
+So, opening my eyes and looking in her face, I said, as quietly as
+possible:
+
+“I do remember you, dear Mona, and shall never forget you. Doctor, you
+see your science has proved false again.”
+
+“And glad indeed I am that it has,” he rejoined, “since it is so greatly
+to our advantage.”
+
+Then they all gathered around me, and called the others to a general
+rejoicing over my sudden recovery. My physical injury was but slight,
+and it was not long before my stupor was entirely gone and I was moving
+about again. Aside from the finding of Mona, many other things in this
+place of her abode interested the different members of our party. All
+were jubilant over the new opportunities for study and investigation,
+and they promised themselves the pleasure of many more visits to the
+place in the future. They had now seen enough for once, and all wanted
+to join in the agreeable task of escorting Mona to Mars and introducing
+her there. So, without more delay, we ascended to the surface once more,
+found our air ships in good order, and soon sailed away, leaving the
+moon without an inhabitant.
+
+Our friends from the antipodes landed with us, and remained some days
+before reembarking for home.
+
+During our voyage down there was a general agreement to give me plenty
+of opportunity to remain in Mona’s immediate company, though no one
+seemed to think we need feel at all embarrassed when our conversation
+was overheard by others.
+
+“Mona,” I said, “were you glad to see our relief party when they
+arrived?”
+
+“I was indeed,” she replied, “and yet I was as happy as a bird, living
+there all by myself and singing for my own amusement the whole day
+long.”
+
+“It is an astonishing thing to me,” I continued, “that after the doctor
+and I had left you so unceremoniously you could go back to your lonely
+home and be happy there.”
+
+“Why, did you think I would mourn for you?”
+
+“Well, yes, I think that would be natural, considering something I
+know.”
+
+“Oh, I should like to hear what you know.”
+
+“If I tell you, I shall have to make a confession.”
+
+“What is a confession, and how can you make one? Have you anything to
+make it of?”
+
+“Oh, yes,” I replied, laughing. “A confession is an acknowledgment that
+one has done something wrong, and should be made to the person to whom
+the wrong has been done.”
+
+“Well,” said Mona, “if that is it, I am sure I shall never have to make
+one, for I have never done anything wrong.”
+
+This agreed so well with my conception of her that I did not then take
+in the full meaning of her words, but said in reply:
+
+“But I have, and this is one thing when you were talking to Zenith about
+me and thought I was unconscious I was recovering, and lay quite still
+so as to hear what you said.”
+
+“And did I say anything to displease you?”
+
+“No, indeed; you said you loved me, and it made me very happy.”
+
+“Oh, I remember now. Zenith said she hoped I loved you, and I told her
+I did. I have always loved you, of course, but I don’t see how that can
+make you happy.”
+
+“That’s singular,” I answered. “I should think you would understand my
+feeling from your own. But never mind. You and I will be lovers from
+this time forth, and give the people of Mars an example of devotion
+worth considering, will we not?”
+
+“You do make the funniest speeches,” she replied. “I don’t know half the
+time what you mean. But I am getting tired of sitting so long. Here is
+Antonia. You talk to her about love, and I’ll go over and see Foedric.”
+
+The lightness of her manner, when I was so deeply in earnest, gave me a
+feeling of uneasiness, which was increased when I saw her easy, familiar
+way with Foedric and heard her merry song as she chatted with him. I was
+not very pleasant company for Antonia, for I could not prevent a return
+of that dreadful jealousy. I wondered if this was always to be the
+history of my wooing--an hour of the supremest happiness, followed so
+speedily by a period of such anguish. I could not possibly talk on any
+other subject, and so I said to Antonia:
+
+“They seem well pleased with each other’s society. Are you not afraid
+Foedric will lose his heart to her?”
+
+“My friend,” she replied, “we never even think of such things as that. I
+hope you are not serious in asking the question.”
+
+“Forgive me, Antonia,” I answered; “I hardly know what I am saying.”
+
+And then I rose and followed Mona, and said to her when I came near:
+
+“Well, my dear, what do you and Foedric find so pleasant to talk about?”
+
+“Why, you see,” she replied, “Foedric was the first one to find me after
+you were hurt, and has been very kind to me since, and I have just been
+telling him I love him. You said it made you happy to hear me say it
+to you, and I wanted to make him happy too. And then I wanted to see if
+Foedric would make such funny speeches as you did.”
+
+I controlled myself enough to ask:
+
+“And what did Foedric say?”
+
+“Why, his answer made me laugh more than yours did. He said it would
+make you unhappy to know I had said such a thing to him. I replied that
+I would tell you myself, and that you were always happy when I said
+anything to you; and then you came up just in time.”
+
+“Now, Mona, do you think it is right to make sport of such a serious
+matter?”
+
+“I assure you I am in earnest in all I have said.”
+
+“Then are you trying to deceive Foedric?”
+
+“Deceive him? What is that?”
+
+“Telling him what isn’t true.”
+
+“No, indeed. I would never do that.”
+
+“It is true, then, that you love him?”
+
+“Certainly it is; isn’t it, Foedric?”
+
+I did not wait for Foedric to answer, but continued:
+
+“And still a short time ago you said you loved me.”
+
+“Well, is that any wonder, after what you have done for me?”
+
+“But do you love us both at once?”
+
+“I do.”
+
+“And do you love Foedric as much as you do me?”
+
+“Certainly. Why shouldn’t I? And now let me ask you a question. Do you
+love me?”
+
+“With all my heart.”
+
+“Then why do you bother me so, asking all these questions, and saying
+things I don’t understand? You appear to be surprised to find that I
+love Foedric. Why, I love everybody. What am I going to do, if I cannot
+love people as much as I want to?”
+
+“You shall, Mona,” I replied, with a sudden softening of my heart toward
+her. “I was only going to suggest that, if you love Foedric, Antonia may
+not like you so well.”
+
+Foedric began to protest that Antonia would not care, but Mona went
+right on with:
+
+“Another complication. What possible difference could it make to
+Antonia?”
+
+“Why, Antonia and Foedric love each other, you know.”
+
+“Oh, they love each other, and therefore no one else can love either of
+them. Is that it? But you have just been talking with Antonia. Don’t you
+love her?”
+
+“Oh, no,” I replied hastily. “Or, at any rate, not in the same way that
+I love you.”
+
+“Not in the same way. That’s another remark that I can’t see any sense
+in. I must say for myself that I have but one way in which to love, and
+that is with my whole heart, without reserve or qualification. I cannot
+parcel out my love, a little to one, a little more to another, and so
+on. It all goes out to everyone. I couldn’t be happy if I should try to
+restrain it. I think it must be like this delicious sunlight, which I am
+just beginning to enjoy, an equal comfort to all who choose to partake
+of it. I love you dearly. What can I do more? If I love others, I am
+not robbing you--take all you want, and then there will be just as much
+left.”
+
+“Mona,” I asked, as she finished, “where did you get such a heart? You
+are showing me how utterly selfish I have been.”
+
+“Good-by,” she exclaimed; “I am going back to Antonia. May I love her?”
+
+“You may love everybody,” I answered, as she left me with an exquisite
+note on her lips.
+
+Foedric and I fell into conversation about her. Foedric praised her to
+the skies, saying that, if this were a fair specimen, the inhabitants of
+the moon must have been a remarkable people, and that it was unfortunate
+that they had so nearly passed from the stage.
+
+When I found opportunity to think over the situation I concluded that
+I had given my heart to a peculiar being, and what had I received in
+return? She loved me--that was certain. But what kind of love was this,
+which had no respect to persons? I knew I could claim no exclusive right
+to the least corner of her heart, and yet she said: “All my heart is
+yours. What more can you ask?” I was not able to solve the riddle of
+her mysterious nature, but as I heard her tuneful voice and watched her
+beautiful face as she talked with Antonia, the very picture of innocent
+happiness, I realized with great intensity that I loved her more than
+ever. And I resolved to be patient, and try to lead her gradually into
+the way of loving which prevailed on the earth at the time we left it.
+
+In due time we landed on the ruddy planet, and there was great diversion
+for us all in seeing Mona’s continued astonishment and in hearing her
+varied song.
+
+It seemed almost like home to enter Thorwald’s house again, where we
+found everything just as we had left it. The children did not exhibit
+any astonishment at our long absence, but were glad to see us back and
+eager to hear about our adventures.
+
+The next morning after our arrival Thorwald gave us a long ride in an
+electric carriage to show Mona the country. Returning, we took her about
+the large house and were all delighted to hear her naive remarks. At
+length Zenith asked Thorwald if he could not think of something that
+would interest us all.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIV.
+
+THE PICTURE TELEGRAPH.
+
+
+“Let us step into the music room,” said Thorwald. “Doctor, what
+acquaintance have you with the telephone?”
+
+“We think we have brought the telephone to a considerable degree of
+perfection,” said the doctor. “At first it was rather crude, and many
+preferred to forego its use in order to escape its annoyances. But of
+recent years great improvements have been made, until its employment is
+now a pleasure, as well as an essential help in our business and social
+life.”
+
+“Does it minister to any other sense than the hearing?”
+
+“It does not, although I have seen a vague promise somewhere of an
+invention by which we could see an image of the person we were speaking
+to.”
+
+“If that is all, I shall be able to give you a pleasant surprise,”
+ pursued Thorwald. “Just sit in those chairs, and do nothing but keep
+your eyes open and listen.”
+
+We saw him arrange a series of long panels, in which were elegant
+mirrors, and then, as he gently pulled an ivory knob, there fell
+upon our ears, very faintly, like distant echoes, strains of the most
+delicious music. Gradually the tones became louder and more defined,
+and Zenith, with a quick smile and glance, directed our attention to the
+opposite side of the room. There our wondering eyes beheld the orchestra
+with whose notes we were then enchanted. There must have been a hundred
+players or more, and we seemed to be looking upon them from a distance
+which would bring the whole group within the bounds of the room. It
+was not a picture thrown on a screen, but was as if the musicians were
+actually present. Every motion made with their instruments was in exact
+accord with the accompanying note, and, wherever this orchestra might
+have its local habitation, it was certainly playing before our little
+audience that morning.
+
+As the selection ended the scene faded away under the manipulation of
+Thorwald, and in a moment the room was filled with a harmony of voices
+such as I had never heard on the earth. And now the great chorus
+appeared, crowding this time three sides of the apartment and rising,
+tier on tier, to the ceiling. We could see the glad faces of the singers
+and knew how they must be enjoying their work. Brilliant solo parts
+burst out from one side and the other, and again from the middle throng,
+but it was impossible to tell from what individual singers these notes
+came.
+
+When this scene, too, had passed and the music, all too soon, had
+ceased, Thorwald made haste to answer the inquiry he saw in our faces by
+saying:
+
+“These concerts are now being given in two cities, both of them several
+thousand miles east of here, so far that it is now afternoon there. If
+we desire music after dinner this evening we can make connection with
+some city west of us, and by going farther west we can invoke sweet
+sounds to soothe us to sleep. Being connected with all the musical
+centers, you can see how, by trying either one direction or the other,
+we can have something worth hearing at any hour of the day or night,
+with the players and singers themselves employed, of course, only in the
+daytime. We have daily programmes of every concert sent us by telephone.
+They are received here, you see, and printed automatically on these
+sheets.”
+
+Zenith had watched us with eager interest during this marvelous
+exhibition. It was a novel experience, for they had never before had
+the opportunity of showing this perfected invention to those entirely
+ignorant of it, and they both enjoyed seeing the pleasure which must
+have beamed from our faces. I wanted to say something, but could think
+of nothing fit for the occasion, and was relieved to hear the doctor
+speak:
+
+“My good friends,” said he, “do not try to show us anything beyond this
+or we shall lose our mental balance. I believe in fairyland now, for I
+have just come from there. I never paid much attention to music on the
+earth, and did not feel any shame for it either, but I am now sure it
+will be to my everlasting disgrace if I neglect it another day.”
+
+This speech pleased Zenith exceedingly, and her emotion made her voice
+and manner more charming than ever as she said:
+
+“If you stay with us, Doctor, you shall have plenty of good music, and
+you will soon become not only a music lover but a music maker, for every
+Martian is proficient in this art.”
+
+“Do you think,” asked the doctor, “that there is the faintest hope that
+the earthly music will ever reach the high standard of that we have just
+heard?”
+
+“Thorwald has told me something of your history,” Zenith replied, “and
+I share his strong faith in your happy destiny. It seems to me that
+your race is equal to any achievement you have witnessed here, and even
+greater things, but it will take much time. Such changes are very slow.
+As for us, we hope we are still making advancement in music. We have
+few higher employments, and hardly one in which we are more entirely
+engrossed. It was given to us at an early stage of our development,
+and all through our troubled course music has been one of the chief
+influences for good. It has helped to keep hope alive during the darkest
+periods of our history, and has always been a mighty incentive toward a
+higher spiritual state. As your race advances I am sure you will
+realize more and more the beauty and value of this art, heaven-born and
+exhaustless.”
+
+We all smiled at Zenith’s happy assurance that the earth was on the
+upward path, and Thorwald said:
+
+“You see hope is contagious. But as we have been through all your
+present troubles and have triumphed over them, it is perhaps easier for
+us to believe in you than for you to believe in yourselves.
+
+“And now, should you like to see how the telephone works in every-day
+matters?”
+
+On our replying in the affirmative, Thorwald turned a switch, waited
+a moment, turned it again, and then there appeared before our eyes a
+familiar object, nothing less than the ship in which we had made our
+recent voyage. A number of the men, whom we recognized, were walking
+about the deck, and one stood apart, near the side of the vessel,
+conversing with Thorwald, the words of both being audible to us. When
+they were through, the scene faded away and Thorwald said:
+
+“As soon as the ship reached its dock connection was made with the
+general system of wires, and the instrument, which is stationed near the
+place where the man was standing, was ready for use.
+
+“So, whenever we desire to talk to our friends, we summon them to
+our presence. You see it is not necessary to speak directly into the
+transmitter. We can sit comfortably in our chairs and converse as easily
+as when our friends are actually present.”
+
+“Let me ask you, Thorwald,” said the doctor, “how all the electricity
+you use is generated? The immense quantity you employ must necessitate
+a great deal of power to produce it. Is there a huge plant in every city
+driven by steam?”
+
+“No,” answered Thorwald. “We make no use of steam in these days. All
+the power we need is obtained from natural waterfalls and rapids. This
+power, which nature has placed ready made at our hand, is so abundant
+that it can never be exhausted.”
+
+“These waterfalls must fortunately be well distributed,” remarked the
+doctor.
+
+“Not more so, I presume, than on the earth,” Thorwald made answer.
+“Every stream that runs in its bed has in it a power proportioned to the
+volume of water and the swiftness of its current. Think of the amount
+of water wasted every day in this way--no, not wasted, but unused. We
+do not need, however, to utilize ordinary streams, as there are enough
+great falls where power is transformed into electricity to be sent over
+wires to any distance required. In every city or district large storage
+facilities are provided from which power can be obtained for all
+possible purposes. Our beds of coal and wells of oil were long since
+exhausted, but while rain falls and water runs this power can never fail
+us.
+
+“Doctor, what is the best metal you have for transmitting electricity?”
+
+“Copper,” answered my companion. “Silver is a little better conductor,
+and a new metal, called glucinium, is better still, but both of these
+are too expensive for general use. Our telegraph and telephone wires
+were formerly made of iron for the sake of economy, but copper is now
+used for these lines, as well as for distributing electricity on a
+large scale. The copper wire now commonly used for the telegraph has a
+resistance of something like four ohms to the mile.”
+
+“You are making good progress,” said Thorwald. “But we have a metal of
+such good conducting qualities that, without making the wire too large
+for convenient use, we have reduced the resistance to an ohm to the
+mile.”
+
+“That is an exceedingly valuable metal,” the doctor said. “And now let
+me ask you a practical question. You say you draw your electricity for
+a thousand and one uses from a large storage plant in each city. Do you
+pay for it by the kilowatt, or how is it measured?”
+
+“We ask for so many watts or kilowatts, and it is also measured by the
+watt hour. But are you serious in asking if we pay for it?”
+
+“Why, you surely do not mean it is given away,” exclaimed the doctor,
+“after all the expense connected with producing and transmitting it.”
+
+“Yes, I mean that whatever quantity we want to use is ours for the
+asking. Before we could buy it some one would have to own it, and that
+could never be. Besides, how could we buy anything without money?”
+
+“What! No money either?” broke in the doctor again. “Well, if you can
+get along without money, that accounts in my mind for much of your
+happiness. Just think of that,” continued the doctor, turning to me, “to
+be forever rid of money and all the trouble it brings.”
+
+“Of what value would it be to us?” asked Thorwald. “We could not use
+it.”
+
+“Some of our people on the earth,” replied the doctor, “have oceans of
+it which they cannot use, and still they seem to think it is of much
+value. It is an inherent characteristic of our race to love the mere
+possession of money or other property, and human nature must change
+a great deal before we can begin to reach the exalted moral condition
+which you now enjoy, to say nothing of your spiritual state.”
+
+“Your nature will change,” said Thorwald, “and do not doubt that the
+change has already begun. Time is what you need, and there is time
+enough for everything.”
+
+After the midday lunch had been served we were invited to take a walk
+about the grounds. As the doctor and I were admiring the beautiful lawns
+and gorgeous beds of flowers, and then stood enraptured at the sight of
+the noble mansion itself, Zenith watched us eagerly, and finally said,
+with a smile:
+
+“You discovered my favorite department of art this morning. Now is a
+good time to learn what Thorwald’s is.”
+
+“Judging from what we have already seen and heard of your husband,” said
+I, “it seems to me he must be an astronomer, or, if not that, then a
+theological professor.”
+
+“If he has been talking to you on either of those subjects,” she
+returned, “I have no doubt he told you things worth taking home with
+you, but his pet topics of study are architecture and its sister art,
+landscape gardening. This house is a creature of his brain, and all the
+artistic effects in color and pattern, which I know you have the taste
+to admire, are of his designing.”
+
+The simple, unaffected manner in which Zenith showed her pride in her
+husband’s achievements was refreshing, and the knowledge she imparted
+only added still more to our high appreciation of our friend.
+
+It was now time for Thorwald to speak, and he remarked quietly:
+
+“It is true that I love architecture. It is another occupation of which
+we can never tire and whose resources we can never fathom. A beautiful,
+dignified, and truly artistic building is one of the highest possible
+products of our civilization, and such work brings out all the poetic
+feeling in one’s nature, just as the production of a fine painting or
+piece of sculpture does. These arts, and literature as well, all have
+their special devotees among us, but everyone knows enough of all arts
+to appreciate and enjoy good work in every department.
+
+“We build truthfully, and this helps to make what we build beautiful,
+for truth is beautiful wherever it is found; and beauty is an object to
+be sought after for its own sake, an enjoyable thing well worth striving
+for. Religion and art, using both those terms in a comprehensive sense,
+have worked together, through all our history, to lift up our souls and
+fit them for higher and higher duties.”
+
+“Thorwald,” said Zenith, “I think our friends would enjoy seeing some
+of our imposing buildings and other works of art while this subject is
+before them.”
+
+That this was not a suggestion that we should start on an extended tour
+of the country was proved by Thorwald, who said:
+
+“Very well, we will then go into the music room again, if you please.”
+
+Here we were shown, by the new powers of the telephone, a bewildering
+succession of the grandest structures our imagination could picture:
+churches and cathedrals, college buildings, observatories, museums,
+music halls and private residences. These were not like pictures or
+views; but the structures themselves, in full perspective and in all the
+richness of their coloring, seemed to stand before us. Trees waving in
+the breeze, people and carriages passing in the streets and occasionally
+a movement at a window or door, all aided the illusion and made it
+difficult to realize that we were not in the midst of the scenes we were
+gazing upon.
+
+Thorwald or Zenith told us the name or purpose of each building as it
+appeared, and the novel exhibition closed with the presentation of a
+large and splendid playhouse.
+
+As this was announced I involuntarily exclaimed:
+
+“So you have kept the theater, have you? Some good people on the earth
+think the drama is demoralizing.”
+
+“That,” said Zenith, “is probably because you have allowed it to become
+debased. We read in our histories of such a period here. Indeed, for
+a long time both the play and the opera were abolished, our advancing
+civilization having given them up under the impression that the good
+in them was overbalanced by the evil. But when the era of a more noble
+personal character had come the drama was revived, and now is not only a
+source of innocent pleasure but is also a decided help to our growth.
+
+“I recognize the house we are now looking at. It is in quite a distant
+city, and I see Thorwald has purposely chosen it because at this moment
+an able company is presenting there one of our most popular plays. Would
+you like to hear some of it?”
+
+No sooner were these words uttered than we saw Thorwald make a slight
+movement of the switch, and, lo! the scene was changed to the interior
+of the building, and there before us was the Martian theater in full
+play. We sat as it were in the dress circle, with the orchestra and
+stage in our front. All was beauty and life around us, and the richness
+and harmonious coloring of the whole interior were simply beyond
+description. The play was going on in a quiet, dignified manner and
+every word and gesture were characterized with the greatest naturalness.
+It struck the doctor and me as a peculiar feature that, while we could
+hear everything that was said on the stage and even the rustle of
+the people around us, we ourselves could talk and laugh without being
+noticed. This effect was produced by an ingenious attachment to the
+telephone, and the doctor was moved to remark:
+
+“This is an altogether comfortable and satisfactory situation.”
+
+“Yes,” added Zenith, “we think it is almost as good as being actually
+present in the theater.”
+
+We assured her it was better, in our opinion, and then we thanked them
+both for the pleasure they had given us. But we began to think their
+resources for entertaining their friends would never be exhausted when
+Thorwald told us he would, at some future time, show us specimens of
+their paintings, sculpture, fine porcelain, elegant furniture, and many
+other works of art.
+
+One morning, a few days later, as we were rising from breakfast,
+Thorwald said:
+
+“Well, my friends, I suppose you will go to church with us to-day?”
+
+“To church?” asked we in one breath.
+
+“Yes, this is Sunday.”
+
+“Oh, is it?” I said. “I began to think you didn’t have Sunday here. It
+is now eight days since our return from the moon, and this is the first
+we have heard of it.”
+
+“Let me see,” said Thorwald, “I believe this is the first Sunday we have
+spent at home since you came to us.”
+
+“Then how long is your week?”
+
+“Ten days.”
+
+“That accounts for our misunderstanding,” I said, “for our Sunday comes
+every seventh day.”
+
+“That is an odd number,” returned Thorwald. “With us the week is the
+basis of our decimal method of reckoning. We have one hundred minutes in
+an hour and ten hours in a day.”
+
+Of course we were ready to go to church, and when we were on the way,
+seated in a comfortable carriage, the doctor said to Thorwald:
+
+“If for any reason you do not care to go out on Sunday, I suppose you
+can all repair to your music room, turn that little switch, and listen
+to the best preacher and the best church music in the land. But do not
+imagine by that remark that we have any fault to find with this method
+of going to church. For my part, I think I prefer it.”
+
+“I perceive,” answered Thorwald, “that you have a good idea of the
+capabilities of the telephone, but I shall have to correct you in this
+case. Our instruments are not connected with any of the churches. But
+to-morrow we can get, by asking through the telephone, phonograph rolls
+of any sermons that are delivered to-day. If we preferred we could get
+them in print, but the phonograph is pleasanter. This instrument is
+now so perfect that the imitation of the speaker’s words and tones is
+faultless. The works of all our authors can be obtained in this form,
+and our libraries consist in great part of phonograph rolls. Even the
+poets of former generations speak to us, and the voice of the singer
+adds its charm to the song.
+
+“But you will want to ask me why we do not extend the use of the
+telephone to the churches. We learned long ago that it is a good thing
+for people to come together for worship and that nothing will take the
+place of it. We do not go for an intellectual treat nor to enjoy the
+music, but only for worship, and we try to keep our forms simple yet
+dignified and as fitting as possible in all ways. Some day I must tell
+you through what difficulties we have passed in church ceremonies and
+church government.”
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXV.
+
+AN UNSATISFACTORY LOVER.
+
+
+It was delightful to live in the same world with Mona, not for me only
+but for every one who knew her. No one could help loving her; there was
+simply nothing else to do. Others did not make as much show of their
+affection as I did, perhaps because no one else was selfish enough
+to claim the same personal rights in her, but I found every new
+acquaintance she made succumbed to the power of her many charms. The
+secret of this general homage was her own loving nature, which just
+worked itself out spontaneously, but the more her love was shed abroad
+the more she retained for new-comers. At first my naturally jealous
+disposition continued to give me long hours of anguish, but I happily
+was able to overcome this to a great extent as I became better
+acquainted with her marvelous spirit.
+
+Although I was at that time too much under the spell of this fair
+creature to form an unprejudiced judgment of her, I have since then
+attempted something of the kind, in comparing her in my mind with
+Antonia and others whom we met in Mars. Let me say that the Martians are
+not a perfect race. With our undeveloped spiritual natures we could not,
+during our entire visit, see any imperfections in them; but, as will be
+seen further on in this narrative, our good friends Thorwald and Zenith,
+under whose instructions kind fortune had placed us, were particular
+to tell us that their race had reached only an advanced state of
+civilization, to which the earth might one day attain, and that
+perfection was still a dream of the future. Taking Antonia, then, as
+a representative of her kind, I can see that she had a solidly formed
+character. She was what she was, not because she could not help it but
+because she herself willed it. That is, when she might have done wrong
+she chose to do right. Her connection with temptation was not entirely
+through her remote ancestors, whose sins filled such a large page in
+their history, but she herself had felt drawings toward evil. Yet so
+slightly had she yielded, and so strongly had her right years of living
+buttressed her against all kinds of wrong, that she, as well as all of
+her race whom we saw, appeared to us about perfect. Theoretically she
+might transgress, but practically it was all but impossible. Hers, then,
+was a truly noble character, and when she gave her love to Foedric he
+had good reason to be proud of the gift. Nor did she defraud others of
+their due, but her heart was open to every proper call.
+
+Such was Antonia, one whom we could in some degree appreciate, although
+so far above us. But how could we understand a being like Mona, who told
+us, and we saw no reason to disbelieve her, that she had never known
+what it was to do wrong? She seemed as incapable of evil as the birds of
+the air, or, to make the comparison still stronger, as a beautiful rose.
+She was guileless by nature, and goodness and truth were as much a part
+of her as her beauty was. She was made to be a joy and comfort to every
+creature brought within the circle of her influence, and she could no
+more help loving than the sun can help shining. All who came near her
+received a share of her gracious beams.
+
+She was unselfish and full of sympathy and every right feeling, not
+because she had seen the evils of selfishness and meanness, but because
+these latter qualities were utterly unknown to her. Her high character
+and perfectly correct life, therefore, were not the result of reason and
+choice, but were the instinctive manifestations of her pure nature.
+
+I do not undertake to say which of these two presented the higher type
+of womanhood, and I certainly entered into no such speculations about
+them at that time, but I never had any difficulty in deciding that
+Mona was the one I loved. I did not, of course, relish her fondness for
+others. In that respect I considered her nature altogether too ardent,
+but I found I must get accustomed to it, as she would not change.
+
+It made me quite despondent at times, fearing I could never lead her to
+feel any special liking for me. Then when she smiled upon me and sang so
+sweetly to me, I thought I ought to be happy though I had to share her
+heart with all the world. Still I did not relax my efforts to make my
+share larger.
+
+“Mona,” I said, one day, “I wish you would ask me to do something real
+hard for you.”
+
+“Why?” she asked.
+
+“So that I could show you how much I love you.”
+
+“But you have already shown me,” she said. “I cannot think of anything
+more difficult than you have done. Did you not keep up a firm belief
+that I would be found, even after the doctor and these wise men of Mars
+had lost all hope, and did you not, by your enthusiasm, prevail on them
+to enter on a difficult search for me on the moon? I have heard all
+about your deep concern for me and how you were affected by hearing
+singing which you thought was like mine. And now that I have been found,
+you are so watchful for my comfort and like to be so near me all the
+time, that I am sure I do not need any further proof of your strong
+attachment. But why do you pay me so much attention? Why do you not like
+to be with Antonia as much as with me?”
+
+“Because I do not love her as much as I do you.”
+
+“Why do you love me so? Because I took you down to my quiet home and
+saved you from being blown off the top of the moon?”
+
+“No, the doctor and I are both grateful to you for that kindness, but
+gratitude isn’t love.”
+
+“I haven’t done anything else for you,” she said.
+
+“It isn’t for anything you have done that I love you.”
+
+“What then?”
+
+“Oh, I don’t know. I suppose it is because I can’t help it.”
+
+“Oh, then you are becoming like me, for I can’t help loving everybody.”
+
+“I shall never be good enough for that,” said I.
+
+“What is love, as you understand it?” asked Mona.
+
+“Love--love,” I hesitated; “why, it is the feeling I have in my heart
+for you. Love is what kept hope alive when you were lost and gave me
+such joy when I heard your voice and knew we had found you. Love makes
+every task light that is done for you and every place where you are the
+brightest spot in the universe. Even this delightful world of Mars is
+more beautiful than ever because you are here. Love, if mutual, is
+a precious bond, uniting two hearts and making them beat in harmony.
+Cannot you and I be joined in heart, Mona?”
+
+“My dear friend,” she replied, “I am very sorry I cannot share your
+feeling, but I do not understand such love as you have been trying to
+describe.”
+
+“Then I fear you do not love me,” I responded, with great sadness in my
+voice.
+
+“Oh, don’t say that,” she exclaimed. “Indeed I do love you. Now, how can
+I prove it to you? What is the opposite of love?”
+
+“Hatred; or, in such a case as this, indifference would be about as bad
+as anything.”
+
+“Well, I don’t know much about such things, but do I seem like a person
+who could hate you or be indifferent to you?”
+
+“No, Mona, you seem to be the most loving creature in all the worlds we
+have ever known, but--”
+
+“Oh, do not spoil that fine speech with a ‘but.’ I know what you want
+to say. You think I ought to love you more than anyone else, or in some
+different way. Now, that desire of yours is what I cannot understand.
+I love everybody alike because I know of no other sentiment. So it is a
+matter of course with me, and I do not feel obliged to tell people that
+I love them. You seem to make too much of it, coming to me everyday and
+telling me, over and over again, that you love me, just as if I doubted
+it. Why do you like to be with me so much? Do you think it is right to
+be so exclusive? You ought to favor the others with your company. As for
+me, I must say I prefer Foedric’s society to yours, because he has so
+many interesting things to talk about, while you stick continually to
+one subject and give me little information even on that one. You know
+I am a new-comer here and eager to learn all I can. Then there’s the
+doctor. I take more pleasure conversing with him than with you, for he
+seems to know more, or, at any rate, to be more able to tell me things
+I want to know about the earth. If the doctor were not here and you were
+the only one to judge from, I should be obliged to think the people of
+the earth a very curious race. Your companion, however, appears to be a
+man of considerable sense.”
+
+Mona sang all this in her easy, natural way, being perfectly free from
+any intention of wounding my feelings, but the more innocent I believed
+her the more incapable I saw she was of entering into my feelings.
+I began to realize how, in loving everybody, she missed a certain
+enjoyment derived from a more selfish order of love. It then occurred
+to me that a world full of such people as Mona must have rather a
+monotonous time from our point of view, and I asked her if she could
+tell me about her race in general respecting the subject of our
+conversation.
+
+“Certainly,” she replied, “I can tell you something from my own
+recollections, but more from our traditions.”
+
+“Well, were the men of the moon all sensible, or were they all like me?”
+
+“Oh, I see you have a little sense as soon as you begin to talk in a new
+direction. In answer to your question, let me say that the stress you
+have put on our personal relations is something entirely new to me,
+and I do not see any use or advantage in it. This must be my excuse for
+speaking so plainly. I should not have spoken so had I not known, in
+spite of what I have said, that you had too much sense to be offended.”
+
+“I thank you,” I said. “Do not apologize for your words. I have taken
+them as a needed rebuke for my haste in appropriating you to myself.
+But I believe, Mona, that the time will come when you will know the
+happiness of loving one person so much that your love for all others
+will not be thought of in comparison. Happy will he be who, in that day,
+is able to prove the capacity of your great heart.”
+
+“Then, in that day,” she responded, “shall I prove myself to be the
+degenerate daughter of a noble race. No, my friend, we were not made of
+such stuff. We loved everybody, without question and without limit. We
+could do nothing else, and to love one more than another was therefore
+impossible.”
+
+“Let me ask if everyone was worthy of being loved?”
+
+“Why, as to that, we were all alike. What do you think of me?”
+
+“You know what I think of you, Mona; or, if you do not, I will tell
+you.”
+
+“Yes; you needn’t tell me again. What I wanted to say is, that I am no
+better than the rest of my people were.”
+
+“What a world it must have been then,” I exclaimed, “and how fortunate
+that the earth did not discover it earlier. With such an example before
+us we should have been utterly discouraged.”
+
+When Mona had left me at the close of this conversation, I proceeded to
+take stock of my sensations. I had certainly been seeing a new phase of
+Mona’s character. Could I make such vigorous language consistent with my
+former conception of her? I answered yes to this question after studying
+it awhile, for I concluded that she was only just in giving me a lesson
+that I deserved. Her innocence was only the more evident, and that was
+the ground on which I built my faith in her. But now came the inquiry
+whether my love could withstand such a shock as it had received. I was
+no longer blind to the truth. Mona had no stronger affection for me than
+for her other friends, and it began to be doubtful if she ever would
+have, considering her peculiar education in affairs of the heart. If I
+continued to love her, it must be with the full knowledge that I had not
+as yet gained the slightest success in my effort to secure her for my
+own exclusive possession. My exuberant passion had received a serious
+shock, for I had been plainly told that it was making me appear
+ridiculous. Then, when there seemed to be danger that my love must grow
+cold under such treatment, I began to argue Mona’s cause to myself, and
+I bade myself take comfort once more in the old thoughts. She was young
+and careless, besides being entirely new to our manner of wooing, and
+I had been too hasty in my approaches and no doubt tired her with my
+continuous solicitations. But then, on the other hand, I continued, the
+case seemed much more hopeless than before after such a plain rebuff,
+and if I had any self-respect I could not continue to pay my court where
+my honest love was made a matter of jest.
+
+These thoughts passed rapidly through my mind, and I cannot tell to what
+rash resolve they would have led me had not the music of Mona’s laughing
+voice just then come floating in from another room. As usual, this was
+more than I could resist, and its immediate effect now was to drive
+out reason and to enthrone love once more. All my doubt and uncertainty
+vanished in a twinkling, my self-respect hid itself in a dark corner
+of my memory, and as I instinctively started to find the fair singer I
+realized again, with a feeling too strong for argument, that I was still
+very much in love.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVI.
+
+AN ENVIABLE CONDITION.
+
+
+Our life in this cultured home continued to be as pleasant as were these
+first days. There was always something new to show us or to tell us. We
+would walk out every day and often step into a carriage and take a
+long ride. Our friends were famous walkers but were considerate of
+our feebleness, and still our returning strength, added to the great
+buoyancy of our bodies on that smaller planet, soon gave us also
+remarkable walking powers.
+
+Sometimes the children would accompany us on an all-day excursion, and
+then the house would be left not only unlocked, but with the doors wide
+open perhaps. When we remarked on this, Zenith told us that if anyone
+happened along he would be at perfect liberty to go in and help himself
+to anything in the house. This was always understood, whether the people
+were at home or not, and one need not even go through the formality
+of asking, if he could see what he wanted. This referred not merely
+to bodily refreshment, of which one might be in need, but literally to
+everything the house contained; and the reason why there was any sort
+of comfort living under such conditions was, that the members of that
+society were all and severally of such ripe characters that it was well
+known one would not deprive another of anything he was using except for
+a reason which would be satisfactory to both.
+
+“If we could communicate with the people on the earth,” said the doctor
+to me when we sat alone conversing about these things, “and tell them
+how the inhabitants here live, they would want to organize an expedition
+and start for Mars right away.”
+
+“Yes, I think they would,” I assented. “And yet, if what Thorwald says
+is true, the earth will one day be as good as Mars. Do you believe it?”
+
+“Well, the fact is,” answered the doctor, “I am ready to believe almost
+anything now.”
+
+“Oh, I wish Thorwald could hear you say that.”
+
+“I should not object,” he continued. “I am sure that some power, not
+comprehended by our science or philosophy, has operated here to bring
+these people to the condition in which we find them, and if the same
+kind forces are at work on the earth, let us hope they will do as much
+for us, no matter how much time it takes. If a belief in such a power is
+faith, then perhaps I am beginning to have a little faith.
+
+“I remember I used to hear our preachers in their public prayers ask God
+that every form of vice and crime might be banished from the earth, and
+that the time might come when there should be no more sin, but only love
+and beauty and happiness. I have heard such prayers a hundred times,
+and never thought much about them. But now I am forced to think, and
+it seems to me that these prayers would not be made continually unless
+there were a hope and expectation in the minds of religious people that
+they would some time be answered. It is not for me to assume that such a
+hope is unreasonable, drawn as it is from the book which so many believe
+is the word of God.”
+
+I rejoiced to hear my friend talk in this way, but it seemed very odd
+that he should be preaching my own doctrine to me. I had had the same
+thoughts, and had been trying to find the right time to offer them to
+the doctor. I am sure I was thankful that he was coming to such views
+without a word from me, for he would probably be much more apt to hold
+to them.
+
+The foregoing conversation was in the evening, and the next morning we
+were all sitting comfortably in the music room, when Thorwald said:
+
+“The other day I began to give you some orderly account of our history,
+but you see how it has been broken into by the relation of different
+phases, in answer to your questions. It seems to me now that it will be
+more interesting to you if I continue in the same way and take up one
+subject at a time. And now that we have a little time before us, I wish
+you would suggest some point upon which you would like to have me talk;
+that is, if it is agreeable to you.”
+
+To which the doctor replied:
+
+“I like your plan very much and I am sure we both have plenty of
+questions which will keep you supplied with topics. I have desired
+for some time to ask you about your industrial system. I can see how
+electricity has relieved you of the most arduous labor, but there must
+remain much disagreeable work, as we would call it, to be done with the
+hand. In our busy life there are a thousand such tasks, which I cannot
+conceive of being performed by machinery, many of them hard only
+because they are monotonous and awake no interest or enthusiasm in the
+performer. Men and women are continually wearing themselves out with
+such work. You must have abolished all that, if everybody here is
+comfortable and happy. I am very anxious to hear how it has been done.”
+
+“In answering your question,” Thorwald began, “let me say, first, that I
+presume we have learned to employ machines in a great many ways which to
+you would seem incomprehensible. The drudgery and much of the monotony
+of labor have been removed, as well as its severity. But still, as you
+surmise, there is plenty of work for all. Our higher civilization
+does not require less work than yours, but rather more and of greater
+variety. It is all done quietly, however, without friction or any of the
+unpleasant features of former times.
+
+“I suspect that the real secret of the change is in the elevation of
+individual character. This has done more to better our condition than
+electricity and all the material improvements and inventions of the
+age. You must believe me when I say that no sort of labor is considered
+disgraceful, and, further, that one occupation is just as honorable as
+another. The man who goes into the mine and superintends the machine
+which gathers the precious metal is esteemed as highly as he who,
+with an artist’s brain and fingers, shapes it to its highest use. The
+carpenter who works with his hands in the building of the house can hold
+his head as high as the architect who has spent many years in learning
+how to create the design. Why not? Both are engaged on the same work,
+each one in his favorite, and so his best, way. Both are working,
+not for daily bread or other selfish end, but for the sake of doing
+something useful. The perfect content and satisfaction we all enjoy
+in our labor come partly from our abundant health and strength, and
+largely, also, from our entire freedom from anxiety in regard to the
+means of maintenance for ourselves and our families. In these respects
+we are all equally fortunate. We are absolutely unconcerned about what
+material things we shall have for ourselves or leave to our children.”
+
+“Do you then all have equal pay for your work, and that so much that it
+places you above anxiety?” asked the doctor.
+
+“Yes,” answered Thorwald, “we are all paid equally, because we are not
+paid at all. So, having no wages and owning no property, why should we
+be anxious? You know I have told you we can have for our use anything
+that is produced or made without even asking anybody for it. The mere
+fact that we need a thing makes it rightfully ours.”
+
+“But what is the incentive to labor if you get nothing for it, and can
+live just as well without it?”
+
+“The incentive is in the love for our work and the consciousness that
+we are doing something to make someone happier and the world a little
+better. Let me give you an illustration, a personal one, if you will
+excuse me. A neighbor asks me to make him a plan for a house. He may be
+a writer of books or he may be a carriage maker, or what not, it makes
+not the slightest difference. I enjoy that kind of work and, having
+obtained his ideas in regard to a house, I do the best I can. I cannot
+conceive that I could do any better if I knew he would pay me for the
+work, as you say. In like manner he asks other neighbors to build his
+house for him, and he has no difficulty in finding enough men who enjoy
+that occupation as much as I do my part of the work, and the principle
+which governs them in their labor is as high as that which controls me.”
+
+“Then,” said the doctor, “I should think the poor man--I beg your
+pardon, I mean the hod-carrier--could have as grand a house as the
+architect himself.”
+
+“I don’t know what a hod-carrier is,” replied Thorwald, “but I get your
+meaning, and you are quite right. As an example of just that state of
+things, I will tell you that the man who tends the digging machine in my
+garden lives in a larger and handsomer house than this one. Why not?
+He has a large family, and he and his wife are educated and refined
+people.”
+
+“But with no physical wants to provide against, I should think some men
+would find existence easier not to work at all. According to your theory
+they could live in as good style as the toilers and have no one to call
+them to account.”
+
+“No one but themselves. Every man is his own monitor, and he needs no
+other. He knows his duty, and he has that within him which keeps him up
+to it more effectually than any outside influence could. In regard to a
+man’s not caring to work, we have been through all that, and we have now
+no such cases. We found out long ago that it is better to have some one
+stated employment and follow it. But this does not mean that the work
+becomes a burden. One can rest as often and as long as he pleases.
+There is no one to intimate in any way that he should be at work, as the
+question is left entirely to him. The moment that work ceases to be a
+necessity it becomes a pleasure and the most natural thing in the world.
+The multiplication of mechanical inventions has greatly reduced the
+volume of labor, so that there is really but little for each individual
+to do; and the truth is, there is never any lack of men. If anything,
+there is not enough work.”
+
+“Your words,” said the doctor, “reveal a remarkable condition of
+affairs, and I fear it will be many, many years before we can begin to
+think seriously of such a plan, so long as to make it almost hopeless;
+but there is one more question I would like to ask. With all this
+freedom of choice, how does it happen that all do not flock to the easy
+and pleasant occupations, and leave the disagreeable tasks undone?”
+
+To this Thorwald replied:
+
+“Let me ask you, Doctor, if you have not an answer to your question
+in your own industrial system. Do you not always find men to do every
+required work, no matter how hard and distasteful it may seem to you?
+I do not mean that the parallel is exact, but this seems to be governed
+now, as it has always been, by a dispensation of nature. We are born
+with different tastes and inclinations. Each one chooses his own
+occupation, and it comes to pass providentially, just as it did in the
+olden time, that all do not choose alike.”
+
+“Are all equally well educated?”
+
+“No, but all have an equal opportunity. Everyone is given a broad
+foundation of general information. The mind and hand are both trained
+and prepared to do good work, and then the choice of occupation is made
+and the special education begins. But one who has chosen some kind
+of manual labor as his vocation very often takes up literary or other
+professional work in addition, and everybody has some kind of study on
+hand, by which the mind is kept employed. There is no uneducated class
+among us.”
+
+“Before you reached such nobility of character,” said the doctor, “that
+panacea for so many ills, I suppose you had troubles enough. You have
+already intimated as much to us. I wonder if it would not help us to
+appreciate better your present condition if you should tell us briefly
+of your experiences in solving so happily some of the problems of your
+career. I am thinking now more especially of the difficulties of your
+social and industrial reformation.”
+
+“I will attempt something of the kind,” Thorwald replied, “if you are
+sure I shall not weary you. Remember to prompt me if I do not follow the
+lines of most interest to you.
+
+“If you should prefer to read you would find the facts you want
+fully set forth in our histories. The records are especially full
+and exhaustive on the subjects you have mentioned, for the important
+changes, or, at least, the changes whose story will be most instructive
+to you, came in a time of great intellectual activity. Of the earlier
+days the history is unfortunately less complete, and still further back
+the records become uncertain and many are merely legendary.
+
+“Let us begin at a time when civilization was confined to a small
+portion of the surface of our planet. Society was then crude and
+unformed. It was a rude, selfish age. But the germ of better things was
+there, for the gospel of Christ had been planted in the world and was
+sure to spring into life when its time should come. But meanwhile our
+evil nature was strong and choked the good seed, and made advancement
+slow and uncertain. Power was divided among many rulers who were
+despots, whose principal occupation was war. The people were valued
+merely for their fighting qualities and enjoyed only such rights and
+privileges as their cruel masters allowed them. Being slaves themselves,
+they held in a still more bitter slavery every prisoner captured in war.
+
+“Life was mere animal existence for most of the race, without enjoyment
+for the present or hope for the future. Education being denied them,
+there was no mental stimulus to compensate for physical wretchedness,
+and even their meager religious privileges were accompanied with so many
+superstitious and unnatural rites that life was relieved of but a little
+of its burden.
+
+“Gradually power was concentrated in the hands of a few autocrats,
+nations were consolidated, and war began to be a science. Then some
+attention was paid to the comfort of the people for the purpose of
+making them better soldiers. Soon it was found that intelligence was the
+best weapon a man could carry, and so education, in a very stinted form,
+was encouraged. This was a fatal blunder on the part of the rulers, for
+as soon as the mind was unfettered the shackles began to fall from the
+body, and the days of absolutism were numbered. The spirit of knowledge,
+once released from its imprisonment, became a dominant power in the
+world, and as time went on the people demanded a voice in the management
+of affairs. In this way came constitutional government, which for a
+long time held sway, and under which there came immense benefits to all.
+Religion and learning flourished, science and art blessed the race with
+their bounties, and the world began to be a brighter and better place to
+live in, comparing the times with the ages of ignorance and cruelty that
+went before.
+
+“And now the stream of liberty broadened, and before long became a flood
+that swept away thrones and scepters. Personal government ceased, and
+the people became their own political masters. The right of suffrage
+was extended and slavery was abolished, while commerce and the spirit of
+adventure carried civilization to many parts of the world. Then appeared
+a swarm of mechanical inventions to lighten the labor of mankind,
+electricity came with its strong arm and great promise, and easier and
+swifter transportation by land and sea brought the nations and peoples
+together to the mutual advantage of all.
+
+“Education, once the possession of the rich and powerful only, now shed
+its benign influence over the whole people. Whereas, in the early
+times, learning had caused the downfall of despotic power, it was
+now considered a principal safeguard of good government, and made
+compulsory. Wealth was accumulated, luxuries multiplied, and great
+strides were taken in the material welfare of both nations and
+individuals. It was an age of intense activity. So rapidly did events
+follow each other, and such possibilities were anticipated, that
+enthusiasts, whose heads were turned in the mad whirl, prophesied the
+immediate opening of the millennium.
+
+“Judged by all the race had previously known of freedom, of prosperity,
+and of happiness, it was a grand age, and that generation might well be
+proud of their timely birth. But, looked at from our present standpoint,
+we can see it was still a day of sadness and sin. We understand, what
+it was more difficult for them to realize, that the revival of pure
+religion, awakening the conscience of mankind, had brought about all
+that was good in their condition, while many evil tendencies had only
+been exaggerated by their material prosperity. So it was still a
+very imperfect world. Political freedom they had, but there was no
+emancipation from the powerful thraldom of selfishness. That spirit held
+universal sway, governing not only individual action but also the policy
+of nations.
+
+“One of the highest sentiments known to the times, and some writers
+placed it even above religion, was love of country. Impassioned oratory
+was fond of declaring that loyalty to one’s native land was the loftiest
+emotion the heart could feel, and no voice was found to rebuke the
+utterance.”
+
+I was a little shocked to hear Thorwald, in his earnest manner, give
+expression to these words, as though he looked upon such views in a very
+serious light. I was therefore bold enough to interrupt him with:
+
+“Excuse me, Thorwald, but would not these orators, when their attention
+was called to their extreme language, acknowledge that love to God was a
+still higher sentiment?”
+
+“Perhaps they would, for with all the selfishness of the period there
+was a deep-seated belief in a divine being. But even so, I still would
+not allow them to be right.”
+
+“Why,” I asked, “is there more than one motive higher than patriotism?”
+
+“Yes, love is higher,” answered Thorwald. “Let me explain. What did
+love of country mean? At first one’s country was a single family, then
+a tribe, and later a city, when the measure of one’s patriotism was the
+measure also of his hatred for everything foreign. In time a state was
+formed from many cities and towns, and its citizens were taught to look
+on all other states as enemies. Then these states that had been fighting
+each other consolidated into a nation, made up, perhaps, of different
+races and languages. By this time patriotism became a lofty theme, but
+it was the same spirit essentially as that which prompts the members of
+two savage tribes to fight to the death through a blind and unreasoning
+devotion to their leaders. So do you not think that love to all, which
+can only come from a generous heart, is more to be praised than love
+to a part, which necessitates enmity to all the rest? I should think
+it would have puzzled the people of that age sometimes to tell of what
+their country really consisted. Was their highest allegiance due to
+their city, or their county, or their state, or their nation?
+
+“To what did this immoderate love of country lead? To a passion
+for aggrandizement at the expense of others, and what was this but
+selfishness with a gloss so bright as to make it look like a virtue? It
+led to the strangling of conscience in national affairs, so as to make
+wrong seem right, and, more than that, to persistence in a course when
+it was well known to be wrong. It taught false ideas of honor and made
+the world one grand dueling field, where the energy of nations was spent
+in watching for insults from their neighbors, and where the quick blow
+followed every real or fancied offense.
+
+“Do not imagine, by what I have said, that I would have advised these
+people to love their country less. On the contrary, I should tell them
+to love it so much that they could not see it do wrong; to love it so
+much that they should have no room in their hearts for bitterness toward
+others; so much that they should strive to have it lead the world in a
+march toward universal brotherhood. Love for one’s neighbor should not
+stop at state or national boundaries. Love should know neither caste
+nor country, but should take in the world, and, I might add for your
+benefit, other worlds if necessary. Love is a condition of the heart,
+something within, not without, the man, and when fully developed reaches
+out to everything that God has made.”
+
+“It seems to me, Thorwald,” I ventured to say, “that these sentiments,
+which I can see are admirable, belong to your present high development,
+while we of the earth have reached only about the condition of the
+people whose traits you have been describing.”
+
+“Then,” resumed Thorwald, “you can perhaps understand another evil of
+those times. It did not grow directly out of love for country, but that
+too much lauded sentiment prevented the people from seeing its full
+enormity. This was the practice of attempting by law to protect the
+inhabitants of one country by shutting out the goods of all others.
+This prohibition included both the manufactured articles and natural
+products, and the means adopted was the placing of a high duty
+on imports. If the political leaders of a people could succeed in
+convincing them that such a course would raise wages, increase the
+opportunities for accumulating money, and make them in general more
+prosperous, then it was forthwith adopted, entirely without regard to
+the effect it might have on the rest of the world. It is not at all
+plain to be seen, from reading the history of those times, that the
+happiest results always followed the passage of these laws, but the
+experiment was tried whenever a majority felt that there was a fair
+expectation of such benefits. The only question considered was whether
+it would be good policy for their particular country. And if one result
+of this selfish legislation was the closing of mills and the loss of
+employment to thousands of workmen in some other part of the world,
+these facts were paraded in the public prints as though they were
+matter for rejoicing. Men were yet to learn that the maxim which the
+politicians were fond of quoting, ‘the greatest good to the greatest
+number,’ should have a world-wide application to give it any meaning at
+all.”
+
+While my prejudices were receiving another shock, I knew the doctor was
+really enjoying this part of Thorwald’s talk. So, in order to draw him
+out, I said to him, as Thorwald paused:
+
+“Doctor, I think our friend must belong to your party.”
+
+“I should rather belong to his party,” replied the doctor.
+
+“Thank you,” said Thorwald. “That is a compliment which I appreciate;
+and now I think I have talked long enough for one sitting. Let us get
+some lunch, and then go out for a good walk.”
+
+Thorwald must have seen that the doctor’s mood was softening, but he
+probably thought it wise not to speak more directly to him at present.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVII.
+
+THE CHILDREN’S DAY.
+
+
+As it was a holiday, the children accompanied us on our walk, and we
+had further opportunity of observing the easy, natural relations
+which existed between them and their parents. There was neither undue
+familiarity nor too much restraint. There was respect as well as
+affection on both sides, and a scrupulous concern for each other’s
+feelings. Evidently the children had all the rights they could
+appropriate to their advantage, while there was no abrogation of the
+privileges or the duties of the parents.
+
+At a convenient time during the afternoon I spoke to Zenith about this
+happy condition of family affairs, and I was greatly enlightened and not
+a little amused by her reply.
+
+“It was not always so,” she said. “One of the sad chapters of our
+history tells us of an unfortunate episode in the family life. In the
+early days the father had complete control over his household, even the
+lives of its members being at his disposal. But as civilization advanced
+the law stepped in and protected the dependent ones from too harsh
+punishment and from neglect. In time sympathy for the weak and
+unprotected made all corporal punishment unpopular, both at home and
+at school, and soon discipline of every kind was much weakened. There
+appeared to be a growing impression on the part of the elders that there
+could not be any evil in the child’s nature, and so if he were allowed
+to grow up without any particular training he would not go far out of
+the way. It seemed to be overlooked that this was something new in the
+history of the race, that the experiment had never been tried of giving
+the youth their own way, from the cradle up. It had been taught from
+very early times that the child, for its own future welfare, should
+receive correction, and the teaching had never before been departed
+from. The parents might just as well have put the reins of family
+government in the hands of the children at once, for this is what it
+came to in the end. The children, released from all restraint, lost
+first their respect for their elders, and then all regard for their
+feelings. Instead of love there grew up a careless indifference, and in
+place of that tender thoughtfulness so necessary to happiness in this
+relation, parents began to receive harsh and even cruel treatment. As
+we look back upon it now, it seems strange that the result was not
+anticipated, and the trend of events changed by a decided stand against
+such an unnatural course. But the approach to a crisis was insidious
+and, as I have said, history furnished no parallel from which to draw a
+warning.
+
+“Two things made it the worst time in the world for parents to become
+lax in their discipline. One was the growing sentiment in favor of
+independence which was permeating all classes of society, and the other
+the great revival of learning among the people. Given a large class
+of persons highly educated and taught to prize personal liberty above
+everything else, and still without the discretion that comes only with
+years, and what could be expected of them when left with no strong hand
+to guide them? The methods of education improved so rapidly, and there
+were such constantly increasing opportunities for obtaining knowledge,
+that there was some excuse for the children in getting the idea that
+they knew more than their fathers and mothers. This belief would not
+under any circumstances improve their manners, and at this time it only
+caused them to despise still more those who seemed willing to withdraw
+all claim to authority over them. Precocity, which had never been
+a popular trait, came to the front with no modesty to relieve its
+disagreeable character.
+
+“But the conduct of the youth of both sexes was not confined to the
+exhibition of bad manners, nor to the mere passive indulgence of an
+undutiful spirit. These led gradually to a more serious phase of the
+rebellion, the inauguration of a series of petty annoyances, to be
+followed, naturally, by acts of downright injustice and cruelty. It
+seemed as if the old years of oppression to which, in a ruder age, the
+children had been subjected, were about to be repeated, with the parents
+for the victims. You must not suppose that these vast changes came about
+in the course of one generation. Just as a sentiment in favor of liberty
+will be perpetuated in a people from one generation to another, and
+increase with the lapse of years, so this feeling of independence
+of parental control and this decadence of natural affection were
+transmitted from one set of children to the next, and matters grew from
+bad to worse.
+
+“At length the behavior of the young people became so notoriously bad
+that the matter had to be taken out of the heretofore sacred precincts
+of home and treated in a public manner. The press tried to work a
+reformation by ridicule and threats, and when this was seen to have no
+effect the legislatures took up the subject, and actually passed laws
+‘for the relief and protection of oppressed parents,’ and ‘for the
+reestablishment of rightful authority in the home.’ These bold measures
+so angered the children that they declared they would not submit to such
+insults, but would take the matter of making laws, as well as all other
+branches of public business, into their own hands. They started their
+own organs, which made such silly declarations as this: ‘We are young,
+but in all other respects we are superior to our elders. We have more
+intelligence, more spirit and courage, we outnumber them two to one,
+and, what is better than all the rest, we hold them already in our
+power. So why should we not use that power, and go forward and destroy
+every vestige of their authority? Let them work and earn our support,
+and we will do the rest.’”
+
+“And now,” asked Zenith, “how do you think the affair came out?”
+
+“I confess,” I answered, “that I shall have to give it up.”
+
+“Well,” she continued, “the problem was solved, as so many others in our
+career have been, when the needed lesson had been learned, without our
+being subjected to the extremely dire results which seemed so imminent;
+and I am happy to be able to tell you that relief came through the
+efforts of one of my own sex. Just before the last ounce was added
+to the weight of foolishness and error which was to turn the world
+completely over, a girl made her appearance with sense enough to call a
+halt. She happened to be editing one of the fiery journals of her class,
+when it struck her one day that they were carrying the thing too far.
+She had the courage to say so, and got roundly abused for it. She
+persisted, obtained adherents and helpers, and soon a decided reaction
+set in. Like a house of cards, which a breath will destroy, the unstable
+structure the children had built fell to the ground, never to be
+restored.
+
+“The lesson was not forgotten, and the experience, which appears
+laughable now, has been of great benefit to us at different times since.
+But the broadening of our minds and the general improvement in our
+character have long ago placed us beyond the danger of a recurrence of
+such events. Compared to our present state those were the days of our
+infancy.”
+
+As Zenith closed I told her I had enjoyed her story, and that I hoped
+the earth would not require such a lesson.
+
+“I trust not,” said Zenith.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVIII.
+
+BUSINESS ETHICS.
+
+
+The next day the doctor and I took the first opportunity to tell
+Thorwald that we were anxious to have him proceed with his narrative.
+
+“Yes,” he said, “I shall be glad to do so, for I had not reached the
+important part when our sitting broke up yesterday.
+
+“I was describing to you a remarkable era in our career, and one of you
+mentioned the fact that the present condition of your race corresponded
+in some particulars with that age on Mars. If you shall discover further
+points of likeness as I continue, it will add a peculiar interest to my
+story.
+
+“There is a difference of opinion among our historians in regard to
+those times. Some believe that the whole world was corrupt, that it was
+an age of material development only, and that, if there were any good
+impulses at all, they were so smothered with selfishness as to be of no
+account. But these writers lived long ago, and were themselves more or
+less under the shadow of that epoch. I strongly hold to the views of the
+great majority of our scholars, who tell us that, while there was too
+much evil of all kinds, there was also much good, and many believers in
+a final happy issue out of all the troubles of the time.
+
+“In a society so entirely given up to the pursuit of wealth and worldly
+advantage of every sort, those who were trying to hold up the standard
+of righteousness and to alleviate the lot of their fellow beings should
+be remembered with gratitude. Among the multitude of inventions were
+many that were calculated to relieve the laborer of his severest tasks,
+to mitigate suffering, to ward off disease, and to lighten the load of
+mankind in various ways. Large sums of money were given for hospitals,
+charitable institutions, and colleges, and for other kinds of
+philanthropic work, while private benevolences were not uncommon. There
+was prosperity, too, of a certain kind, and some people were happy, or
+thought themselves so. In the records of that as of every period of our
+history, it is possible to find rays of light if we search for them, and
+I tell you these things in order that you may get a fair understanding
+of the situation, for in what follows you will see something of the
+other side.
+
+ “I think I shall not err if I say that the gigantic evil of the times,
+that from which others sprang, was the inordinate love of money. Even
+political power, by which the opportunity was obtained of doing public
+service, was too often sought merely for the better chance one had of
+making money, as the saying was. In the revolt against aristocratic
+government, the tendency in our race of going from one extreme to the
+other was again shown, and universal suffrage was adopted. This would
+have been wise if intelligence and honesty had also been universal. But
+the result proved it to be an exceedingly bad policy, for it created
+a large class of voters who held the high privilege of citizenship so
+meanly, and were themselves so venal, that they would even sell their
+votes to the highest bidder. This, supplemented by the immorality of
+some of the intelligent citizens, made politics corrupt and the name of
+politician too often a by-word.
+
+“In doing business, by which was meant buying and selling and
+manufacturing, also financial dealings and commerce, the passion
+for money-getting was particularly prominent. An astonishingly small
+percentage of those that went into business, as they said, made a
+success, if we except the large manufacturers, but in spite of that
+it was a popular way of earning a livelihood. One thing that made it
+popular was the fact that there was always more or less speculation
+in it. The haste to get rich made men too careless of the rights of
+others.”
+
+“Do you mean that all business was conducted dishonestly?” I asked.
+
+“No,” answered Thorwald, “not as men looked at it then. There was a
+great deal of downright knavery in business, but there was another class
+who satisfied their consciences by being as honest as they could. The
+thoughtful ones knew the system was wrong but felt themselves utterly
+unable to replace it by a better one, and feeling no responsibility for
+it, they were satisfied to smother their sensibilities and drift along.
+They had their living to make, and, though they were not making it in an
+ideal way, they did not know that any other kind of work would be more
+satisfactory to their uneasy consciences.”
+
+“Excuse me, Thorwald,” I said; “I am dull. What was there wrong in their
+manner of doing business?”
+
+“Can you see nothing wrong,” he answered, “in a system where one man’s
+fortune was built on the ruins of another’s, or perhaps a score of
+others, or where a business was started and increased solely by drawing
+from another one already established?”
+
+“Why,” said I, “that is competition, which they no doubt thought better
+than monopoly. I can imagine that they argued that a man’s first duty
+was to himself and his family, that one had a right to go into any
+legitimate business, and that others must take care of themselves. The
+evil, if there was any, they probably felt was incident to the nature of
+business and could not be helped. I would like to ask how society could
+exist with any other business rules.”
+
+As I closed it struck me that I had spoken pretty fast and without much
+discretion, and the impression was not removed as Thorwald answered with
+dignity:
+
+“I am telling you the state of things on this planet thousands of years
+ago, and it is a sufficient answer to your question to say that society
+at the present day is not governed on any such principles; still, we
+seem to exist. It was a favorite saying in those days that ‘a man must
+live,’ and one that was used as an argument or excuse for questionable
+practices. The premise was wrong; it was not necessary to live: death
+would have been far better for the world and for the individual than
+a dishonorable life. So with society at large; better a change in the
+social structure, caused by an awakened conscience, than a state of
+peace founded on wrong principles. Our history proves that no particular
+plan of society is necessary to the world and that no order based
+on selfishness or injustice can long endure. But do not imagine such
+changes were easy or swift in accomplishment. They came, not by
+violence nor by the device of crafty men, but only through the universal
+betterment of the race, whereby a state of things that had been
+considered good enough, and then endured as the best attainable, became
+at last positively wrong and was slowly pushed aside by a growing sense
+of right.
+
+“To return to your first question, as to what there was wrong in their
+way of doing business, I want to say with emphasis that the essence of
+the wrong was in an undue regard for self and an almost total disregard
+for the interests of others. There were exceptions to the rule, notably
+in the direction of charity and philanthropy and in religious work, but
+I am speaking of the mass of the business community. It was every man
+singly against all the rest of the world. No man was his brother’s
+keeper. If one did not look out for himself, that was the end of it;
+there was no one else to do it.”
+
+“But the system itself made men selfish,” I ventured to say.
+
+“To be sure it did,” he replied. “But why did they not then abolish the
+system before it had brought upon them its long train of evils? It had
+to go at last.”
+
+“But,” I asked again, “was not competition a good thing for the large
+number of people not directly engaged in business? Did it not keep down
+the prices on all kinds of commodities?”
+
+“Certainly not in the main. It increased prices, because it increased
+the cost of everything. But let us suppose a case where it had the
+effect you suggest. Could a man with a heart wear a coat, for example,
+with any pleasure, if he knew that rivalry between the manufacturers had
+forced the people who made the garment to accept starvation wages? And
+this was done, not from humanitarian motives, to furnish the poor with
+cheap clothing, but for the purpose of getting more business and so of
+making more money.”
+
+I could hardly resist the temptation at this point of asking Thorwald
+if he had not been reading up on the current history of the earth, but I
+knew well enough that was not possible, for we had brought no books with
+us. And then I did not care to tell Thorwald just yet how near he
+was coming to our experience. But I could not endure having the props
+knocked from under our social structure without another effort to save
+it. So I said:
+
+“But were not the great majority of business men honest, and were not
+these instances that you have cited extreme cases?”
+
+“They were the natural results of a bad system. A great many men were
+as honest as their environment would permit, and they tried to convince
+themselves that they were not responsible for the environment.”
+
+“Were they?” I asked eagerly.
+
+“When they at last discovered that they were, then began a radical
+change. I am not exaggerating the evils of the times. I am merely
+setting them forth to show you how our race has improved with its
+maturity. If my purpose required it, I could detail many good things in
+the life of that people. One bright point in their character, to which I
+just now referred, I will illustrate. My boy, who is also my student
+in drawing, will never be able to make a straight line until he can
+see that the line he has already made is not straight. His improvement
+depends upon more than a steady hand. So with this people. Deep down in
+their being, planted by a divine hand, were the instinct of truth
+and the principle of growth, and when, in the natural course of their
+development, they came to realize how unworthy they were of their better
+nature, they set about the work of improvement.
+
+“But they came to that knowledge through many sad experiences. I have
+not begun to tell you the number and extent of the evils they endured.
+
+“The desire for money affected all classes. The general prosperity had
+bettered the condition of the wage-earners, creating many artificial
+wants which could not be satisfied without good pay. Hence arose a
+natural and constant effort to obtain higher wages, while competition
+among the employers operated just as constantly to keep them down, and
+the result was a sharp and increasing antagonism between capital and
+labor. The general public shared in the blame for this state of things
+by reason of the almost universal demand for cheap goods.
+
+“While the introduction of machinery was a real advance, whose benefits
+we are reaping to this day, other conditions had not become adjusted
+to it at the time of which we are speaking, so that there was often a
+surplus of workmen, especially in the lower grades of labor. This had
+a tendency to reduce wages, of course; and the want of employment,
+improvidence in the use of small wages, intemperance and other
+immoralities, ignorance and misfortune, all combined to keep part of the
+people in poverty. On the other hand, it was a time of great wealth and
+luxurious living, and these two classes, so far apart in their manner of
+life but often so near each other in all their selfish aims, seemed to
+have a strong mutual attraction, for they were always found together,
+crowding upon each other in every large city.
+
+“One of the most difficult things for us of the present day to imagine
+is, how persons of refinement and sensibility, living in comfort and
+without a care, could take any pleasure in life when they knew that
+within a stone’s throw of their doors were human beings who, very often
+through no fault of their own, were so destitute that a crust would
+relieve their want, or so friendless that a kind word would make them
+shed tears of joy. Oh! I cannot comprehend it, and yet the record tells
+us there were cases of just that nature, where such people, without
+lifting a finger to alleviate the distress, actually laughed and were
+happy. Happy! What could they know of happiness? The word must have
+changed its meaning wonderfully, if we think of what it signifies
+to-day.”
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIX.
+
+THE INDUSTRIAL PROBLEM.
+
+
+Thorwald continued as follows:
+
+“The unpleasant relations existing between the employers and the
+employees created a host of troubles. It was an unreasonable feeling,
+because the interests of the two classes were identical. But as capital
+was consolidated and great corporations were formed for extensive
+operations in transportation and manufacturing, the relation between the
+two became very impersonal and difficult to control. In order to protect
+their interests the wage-earners organized into unions, brotherhoods,
+etc., almost every trade and calling having its own organization.
+
+“When these associations were first formed much stress was laid upon
+their incidental benefits, such as assistance in time of sickness,
+care of the families of deceased members, the holding of meetings
+for discussion and mutual improvement, and the establishment of
+reading-rooms and libraries. These commendable objects would have been
+a sufficient excuse for the existence of these bodies, and other
+legitimate ends might have been sought, but the labor unions did not
+stop there. They instituted and set in motion the powerful machinery
+of the strike, as it was called, making it effective by binding their
+members, under severe penalties, to stop work when they were ordered
+to do so by their leaders. They also practiced the severest measures
+of intimidation upon non-union men, to prevent them from getting
+employment.
+
+“Thus the trades-unions, too often governed by incompetent men, became
+a mighty power for evil. Strikes and lockouts were common, and were
+followed by loss of wages and consequent suffering, while the bitterness
+of feeling between the two classes constantly increased. To meet the
+rising power of the labor organizations, the employers felt obliged to
+form combinations among themselves and sometimes also to employ bodies
+of armed men to protect their property. Then, when a strike came,
+conflicts would follow so serious that appeal had to be made to the last
+resort, the military arm of the nation. Here another evil threatened,
+for the individual soldiers would sometimes prove to be in deep sympathy
+with the workmen who were making the trouble. At such crises, also,
+there would appear on the scene the anarchist, who wanted to overthrow
+society at once in the hope of bringing himself out nearer the top, and
+who was kept comparatively harmless in quiet times.
+
+“You can imagine something of the disorder and apprehension caused
+by these troubles. No contract for work could be made without the
+stipulation that its fulfillment must depend upon freedom from strikes
+in that particular trade, and no man could start on a journey with any
+certainty that he would be allowed to finish it in peace and at the
+appointed time.
+
+“To decide how these evils should be remedied proved to be one of the
+greatest problems ever presented to the people of that age.
+
+“Political sages had long before promulgated the doctrine upon which
+society was governed, that every man had a natural right to life,
+liberty, and his own method of pursuing happiness. Now, both sides
+in the conflict claimed to be following closely the spirit of this
+fundamental doctrine. The workingmen declared that they had a perfect
+right to organize and to induce all their number to join the unions.
+They said the individual relation between them and the employers had had
+its day and that experience was proving to them that every concession
+and privilege they hoped to get must come through their associations,
+working through the medium of an agent or committee. As independent
+citizens they could not obey laws and regulations in the making of which
+they had no voice, and their love of personal liberty would not allow
+them to accept the wages and hours of service which their employers
+might, without asking their consent, choose to prescribe. In case of
+disagreement they asserted their right to stop the whole business, at
+whatever loss to the employers or inconvenience to the public, and to
+prevent, if possible, new men from taking their places.
+
+“On the other hand, the employers, while not denying to the workmen the
+right to form associations for legitimate purposes, insisted that this
+right was being abused. They claimed that they should be allowed to hire
+whom they pleased and dismiss incompetent men when it was best for their
+business, without regard to their membership or non-membership in a
+union.
+
+“As time went on the trouble increased and society was fast forming
+itself into classes with opposing aims and mutual dislike. The time
+had been when a workman, by skill and diligence, could rise above his
+station and become a large proprietor himself. But with the new order
+this was hardly possible, and civilization, in this respect, seemed to
+be retrogressing.
+
+“You may wonder why the lawmakers did not correct the evil at once, but
+the fact was that the legislatures were made up of representatives from
+the two classes, and so were undecided as to what remedies to apply.
+It was proposed by some to enact a law preventing a man from selling
+himself into slavery, or, in other words, from giving up his liberty
+of action into the keeping of others, a thing which had caused much
+suffering. In every strike a large part of the men, earning small wages
+and with families dependent on these wages for their bread from one day
+to another, would be obliged to quit work against their will. It was
+thought, therefore, a fit subject of legislation to enjoin them from
+binding themselves to strike at the dictation of others, when it was
+against their judgment. It was suggested, also, to make the intimidation
+or coercion of non-union men a criminal act.
+
+“When these measures were suggested the cry was raised that the
+workingmen were to be deprived of their liberty and made the slaves of
+capital. The labor parties in the legislatures were assisted by a
+class of politicians who were made cowards through fear of losing the
+workingmen’s votes, and this gave these parties the power to defeat
+all measures of which they disapproved, and to pass laws in their own
+interest. They claimed that they should be protected as well as the
+manufacturer, and so they made it lawful for the government to inspect
+all industries and to see that the employees received an equitable share
+of the profits. This was radical action, but they went still further,
+and took away from every employer the right of discharging men for any
+cause without the consent of the union; and full power to fix the
+hours of service and the wages was put into the hands of the government
+inspectors and the representatives of the trades-unions. The wages
+were to be based on what the inspectors found to be the profits of the
+business, and the help or advice of the proprietors was not to be taken.
+As these astonishing rules governed even the farmer and shopkeeper
+as well as the manufacturer, you can imagine that there was not much
+satisfaction in trying to carry on any business.
+
+“The laboring classes were beginning to discover that they were a large
+majority of the community and that there was a mighty power in the
+ballot. Their opponents, on the other hand, having lost the control in
+politics through universal suffrage, now bent their energies still more
+to the work of combining large interests under one management, hoping to
+wield in this way a power too formidable to be withstood. Immense
+trusts were formed in almost every branch of business, and the syndicate
+gradually took the place of the firm and individual corporation.
+
+“A long time previous to the period of which we are speaking, the people
+had put part of their business into the hands of the government, with
+the idea that it would be done with more promptness and also with more
+economy. A good example of this was seen in the excellent mail service,
+which the national government conducted much more satisfactorily than it
+could have been done by private enterprise.
+
+“The local governments, also, had full control of the highways and
+bridges and the common schools, hospitals, etc., while in large
+communities, at great expense, they stored and distributed water for
+domestic and other purposes. As the people had received undoubted
+benefits from this state of things, there were few to object to it, and
+even their objection was more for theoretical than practical reasons. It
+is not strange, therefore, that as the troublous times approached
+these functions of the state should be multiplied. Besides the gain in
+convenience and in cost that thus came to the people, they began to
+rely on the strong arm of the government for protection from the
+uncertainties and interruptions incident to private control of many
+kinds of business.
+
+“As the telegraph and telephone came into more general use the
+government found it necessary to add their facilities to the mail
+service, in order to give the people the best means of communication.
+From this point the step was soon taken of assuming control of all
+the telegraph and telephone lines, in the interest of lower prices and
+better service. This was attended with such good results that it
+was thought wise to extend the conveniences of the mail in another
+direction; and instead of carrying a few small parcels the government
+took into its hands the entire express business, and it was not long
+before everybody conceded it to be a good move.
+
+“At the same time, the municipal governments began to exhibit the same
+paternal character. They first took control of the lighting and heating
+facilities, and this led in a short time to their furnishing the people
+with fuel, which was generally brought from a distance, and which, in
+private hands, always had a way of going up in price at just the time
+when the poor people were obliged to buy it. For the sake of economy,
+also, the cities took possession of all street cars, cabs, and
+omnibuses.
+
+“Affairs had reached this condition when the labor troubles became so
+serious, and this absorption of private business by the government was
+so recent and was in general so satisfactory, that men could but think
+of it in connection with their efforts to solve the industrial problems.
+The time had now come when some radical measures must be adopted to
+preserve and extend civilization. The labor party were abusing their
+power still more in making bad laws, and strikes became more frequent,
+and were followed by rioting and bloodshed. At length the interruptions
+to business occasioned by the irregularities in traveling became
+unbearable. The public demanded better service, but the railroad
+companies were powerless to render it, being in the hands of the
+employees, who at the slightest grievance would stop every wheel till
+the dispute was settled. The trouble generally started with one road and
+spread to the others by sympathy, and the result was just as disastrous
+to business whether the men gained their end or not.
+
+“There had always been a party, although at times pretty feeble, in
+favor of government control of the entire transportation business. This
+party now argued that that was the only thing that would cure these
+evils, and they gained thereby many new adherents. When it was
+considered that government ownership of the telegraph was working well
+in spite of many adverse prophecies, the people began to entertain
+the idea that it would perhaps be best to try the experiment with
+the railroads, especially as it gave some promise of relief from the
+strikes. To be sure, it would add to the government service immense
+numbers of men, and increase a danger that had always been threatening,
+that of making too large a list of civil officers to be managed without
+great corruption.
+
+“But now it was not long before a large majority of the people asked to
+have the trial made, and soon all railroads, canals, and steamboats were
+in the hands of the general government. The employees were formed into
+an army, with officers of all grades, and put under strict military
+discipline. At the least show of insubordination a man was discharged,
+never to be reemployed, and although this caused some hardship in
+individual cases at first, it put an effectual stop to the strikes
+and kept business moving. The best of the workmen had been among the
+strongest advocates of national ownership, and as the movement gained
+in favor no class were so satisfied with the change as the employees
+themselves. Work was steady, wages were regular, faithfulness and
+length of service were rewarded, and the aged and feeble were retired on
+pensions.
+
+“In this way peace had come in one department of labor, but war still
+raged among the manufacturers and in the building and other trades. The
+workingmen literally held the reins in society, but did not know enough
+to drive away from the rocks. Instead of taking advantage of shorter
+hours and higher wages to improve their minds and prepare themselves
+for a better condition, they were too apt to waste their energies
+in denouncing the capitalists and in trying to force still greater
+concessions from their unwilling employers. They would loudly demand
+that every ancient wrong endured by them should be redressed, and then,
+to show their idea of right, they would compel a builder, in the middle
+of a contract, where time was more precious than money, to give
+them higher wages than had been agreed on; or they would boycott to
+bankruptcy a small shopkeeper who innocently bought goods that happened
+to be made by non-union workmen.
+
+“But do not imagine that the wrong was all on one side. There
+were employers who were unjust and cruel when they had the power,
+unreasonable in argument, and boorish and exasperating in their manners.
+Many seemed to think they were a different class of beings because they
+had more money than their workmen, and they resented the idea of the
+latter rising above the station in which they were born. They raised
+wages only when forced to do so, and considered any amount of profit
+made out of their men perfectly legitimate. When want came they would
+give in charity to the unfortunate ones that which really belonged to
+them by right. These disagreeable qualities were not possessed alone by
+such as were employers. There was a class of rich people not engaged in
+business, and although they had the greatest interest in the perpetuity
+of society as it was, many of them considered themselves as members of
+a superior caste, and looked down with disdain upon the majority of
+mankind, and the real masters of the situation, who had to work for
+their daily bread.
+
+“It was against this class especially that anarchy was forging its
+thunderbolt. The freedom of the press and freedom of speech gave the
+socialist and anarchist the opportunity to promulgate their seditious
+doctrines, and they looked to the ignorant and depraved portions of the
+community for adherents. By the successful risings of the people against
+despotic power the word ‘revolution’ had gained a certain nobility of
+sound and meaning, and now these incendiaries employed it to mislead the
+credulous. They promised an overturning by which all property and money
+should become a common fund and be redistributed on a more equitable
+basis, and it is perhaps not to be wondered at that some poor, ignorant
+ones, seeing the vast inequalities in life, should be carried away with
+their arguments. The vision of a society where all should share alike
+and live on the same scale of comfort was intoxicating. But the scheme
+of the anarchist was not based on love and a desire to promote true
+brotherhood. Judging from the violent means proposed to bring about
+the change, it seemed rather to be based on hate. In preaching their
+doctrine of personal license they were stealing the livery of freedom in
+which to serve their selfish lusts.
+
+“While the vicious and ignorant thus threatened society on the one hand,
+the accumulation of enormous wealth by a few fortunate, or unfortunate,
+men was thought by some to be a menace equally serious. It was argued
+that this could not go on without making the poor poorer and more
+numerous, and thus emphasizing and perpetuating the separation of the
+two classes.
+
+“I need not point out to you a fact that you must realize, namely, that
+the spring of action with too many men, the one cause of the troubles
+that really threatened the foundations of society, was selfishness.
+Can you imagine any danger from all these movements if men could have
+suddenly become unselfish, really unselfish?
+
+“I hope I have not given you the idea that all the world of people had
+lost their heads. As in the history of nations of that period war seems
+to have been the principal occupation, so in the social life of the
+people the evils and dangers are most prominently seen. But all this
+time there was a large party of men and women who were alive to the
+perils of the hour, and intent on seeking the best means to overcome
+them. This party was made up of many representatives of every class,
+rich and poor, workingmen and employers, and included the great mass of
+the intelligent and thoughtful members of society.
+
+“The general and local governments were carrying on, with marked success
+and without friction, certain kinds of business, while in many other
+departments there were disorder and possible ruin. Time brought no
+healing power; the troubles increased and were now truly gigantic. Where
+should help be found?”
+
+As Thorwald paused here, the doctor, who, I thought, had been wanting to
+speak for some time, took occasion to say:
+
+“Don’t tell us, Thorwald, that this people turned over all their
+business, both industrial and professional, to the government, and made
+machines of themselves. I am becoming exceedingly interested in them and
+hope they found some better release from their woes. I am sure there are
+a number of methods of relief which they might have tried.”
+
+“I am glad you have spoken, Doctor,” answered Thorwald, “or I might have
+talked you to death. We must really break off now and get out of doors.”
+
+Mona listened to different portions of the foregoing conversation.
+It was dull amusement for her, as we could see by her actions, and we
+wondered at first why she showed so little interest in it. She did not
+seem to realize the full significance of her unique position in our
+circle. As the last representative of the race of moon men, she had
+now the opportunity of learning something of the history of two sister
+worlds, and one would suppose that she would have been eager to hear
+every word we said. She had expressed herself more than once as anxious
+to know all any of us could tell her, nor did she hesitate to ask
+questions continually--and intelligent questions, too. But she was
+sympathetic only in certain directions, having a laudable curiosity to
+hear about any of the pleasant phases of society, either on the earth or
+on Mars. But when Thorwald talked of the former troubles experienced by
+his race, or when we compared these with the miseries of our own times
+on the earth, Mona became an indifferent listener.
+
+She was sitting with us when Thorwald proposed the out-door exercise,
+and so we all went out together. As we walked, Thorwald said:
+
+“Mona, I fear you have not been enjoying my tedious talk this morning.
+You would be better pleased, I am sure, with some other topic.”
+
+In her sweet accents, so charming to every ear, Mona responded:
+
+“I hope my lack of attention did not give you offense, Thorwald, but I
+do not understand the things you have talked about to-day.”
+
+“Not understand? Why, I know from former conversations with you that
+such things are not beyond your comprehension.”
+
+“Thank you,” said Mona, “but I think they are, for I never before heard
+anything like the ideas you have advanced.”
+
+“We shall all be glad to learn, then, how these questions were answered
+and these wrongs righted by your ancestors.”
+
+“They never had any such perplexities,” responded Mona.
+
+“Which means, I presume,” said Thorwald, “that the race became so far
+advanced before your time that the records and traditions of their early
+struggles were all forgotten.”
+
+“Oh, no,” she sang out, “that’s not it. What had they to struggle over?”
+
+“Was it then so easy for them to be just?” asked Thorwald.
+
+“Certainly, and I have been exceedingly surprised to learn by your long
+talk that there is such a thing as injustice.”
+
+We were all becoming thoroughly interested, but left it for Thorwald to
+continue his questions.
+
+“Mona,” said he, “do you mean that your people, even in the remote past,
+were entirely ignorant of such troubles as we have been speaking about?”
+
+“Yes, and of all other troubles. I am sure there was always only peace
+and happiness on the moon. Strife and hatred, sorrow, want, and misery
+are all strange words to me, and entirely unknown except as I have heard
+them in your conversation.”
+
+“Was there never any sickness there?” I asked.
+
+“I don’t know the meaning of the word,” she replied. “Is it another item
+in the general unpleasantness of the times you have been describing? I
+wonder that your race, Thorwald, ever survived those rude days.”
+
+“But,” asked Thorwald, “what think you of the earth? The doctor and his
+companion say their planet is now passing through just such a period.”
+
+“Well, all I can say is that I am thankful I was not discovered till
+after the moon had deserted the earth.”
+
+“Tell us more about your race,” said the doctor. “Were they all as good
+as you are?”
+
+“Just the same. There were no degrees in goodness.”
+
+“And did they all sing as they talked, and in such sweet tones as
+yours?” I asked.
+
+“Oh, many sang better than I do, and all made music of their words. I
+never heard speech that was not melodious till you and the doctor came
+to see me.”
+
+“And did everything else in your life there correspond to your charming
+manner of talking?” asked Thorwald.
+
+“Why, yes, I think so,” answered Mona. “It was a delightful world.
+Everything was bright and joyous, with no shadow of discontent nor
+anything to cause sadness or discomfort. Do you wonder that I could not
+sympathize with your story of wrongs and sorrows, the very nature of
+which was a new revelation to me?”
+
+Mona’s notions about the people whom she represented seemed strange and
+improbable to us, and we attributed them to the influence of her own
+guileless nature. One so innocent and whole-hearted as she was would
+naturally clothe her ancestors with at least the virtues and graces she
+herself possessed. However, we had no means of proving Mona’s ideas to
+be false. We had brought away from the moon no records of any kind by
+which to study its history, and of that history Mona was as yet our
+only interpreter. But every word she spoke on this subject only added
+intensity to the pleasurable anticipation with which these Martians
+looked forward to their study of the moon and its former inhabitants.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXX.
+
+
+ATTEMPTS TO SOLVE THE PROBLEM.
+
+It was not till the next day that we sat down together again to continue
+the conversation. Remembering what the doctor had said, Thorwald began:
+
+“In sketching for you the history of that age of activity and change in
+our career, I was in such fear of wearying you with dry details that I
+hurried along and omitted the very things to which you refer, Doctor.
+This people did try all the experiments that suggested themselves,
+and if you think your patience will endure it I will speak of a few of
+them.”
+
+We both assured him that we would gladly listen, and that we considered
+ourselves fortunate in having such an instructor. He was merely telling
+us about a certain period in the history of Mars, but if he had known
+how nearly he had been coming to the course of events on the earth he
+would not have wondered that we were so eager to hear all he had to say.
+
+“Quite early in the labor difficulties,” he resumed, “state arbitration
+had its day; a short one, however, for the appointment of the
+arbitrators soon became a matter of partisan politics, and their
+influence was gone. Whichever side was in power could appoint a board
+that would be prejudiced in favor of that side from the start, and when
+the trouble came the other party would not have confidence enough in
+their judgment to accept their decision.
+
+“Next, laws were passed making arbitration compulsory, but allowing the
+arbitrators to be chosen at the time of the strike, the employer to name
+one, the workmen one, and these two to find the third. This did some
+good as long as only first class men were selected, but a few flagrant
+cases occurred where the arbitrators, who were allowed to inspect the
+books of the concern, made public the private affairs of the business,
+to the great injury of the owners. This brought the law into disfavor,
+and, as there was no provision for enforcing the decisions, it came to
+pass that they were often disregarded, and so, before long, this plan of
+settling disputes was also abandoned.
+
+“For a good many years no other subject so completely filled the public
+mind as this very troublesome one, and people of all professions were
+continually suggesting remedies. It was held by many to be a good
+working theory that the employees in every business, whether industrial,
+mercantile, or financial, were entitled to some share in the profits
+over and above their compensation in wages. This was disputed by the
+large majority of the employers, who claimed that their contract with
+the workmen was a simple one, by which they agreed to work so many hours
+for so much pay, and as this was their due even if the business proved
+a losing one, so they had no just claim to anything more if it were
+successful the employees had nothing to do or say about the question
+of profits. On the other hand, where a number of men had, by long and
+faithful service, a strict regard for the welfare of the business, and
+loyalty to all of the employer’s interests, helped to build up a great
+industry, an increasing number of people, not only the wage earners but
+many others not directly interested, felt that the workmen had
+fairly gained, if not a share in the proprietorship, at least some
+consideration from the owners. This feeling was especially strong in
+cases where the laws of the land had materially aided the success of the
+business, and where the profits were unusually large.
+
+“I want to say, in passing, that it is by such indications as the
+existence of this sentiment that we can see, all through those troublous
+times, the gradual improvement of the race.
+
+“As some of the employers came to be impressed with the same thought,
+they began in a quiet way trying the experiment of giving their men a
+bonus at the end of the year, proportioned to the amount of wages they
+earned. In some cases this gave place after a time to the plan of making
+the workmen regular partners, and giving them a certain percentage of
+the profits in lieu of wages. But when a time of general depression came
+and the percentage did not amount to as much as their old pay had been,
+the men felt as though they had been led into a trap, and after they had
+endured the situation for a time they were glad to return to the former
+system.
+
+“Another scheme that was extensively tried was cooperation among the
+workingmen, both in manufacturing and mercantile business. The argument,
+which was a plausible one, was that the expense of big salaries for
+management, together with the enormous profits, would all be available
+for dividends. The results showed that in the long run the profits, in
+all but exceptional cases, were not more than a fair interest on the
+investment, and as to the salaries, it was found that financial and
+business ability was scarce and costly, and yet necessary to success.
+The associations of workingmen were willing to put their money into
+buildings, machinery, and stock, and the men were ready to work hard
+themselves, but they were not willing to pay for skill in management,
+and so their failure was inevitable. At the same time they still held
+to the opinion, which was at the bottom of these experiments, that under
+the old system the owners and managers of the business got too much
+of the profits and the operatives too little. Is there anything else,
+Doctor, that you think these people might have tried?”
+
+“I am not satisfied,” the doctor answered, “with their efforts
+at profit-sharing. It seems to me that that scheme, under proper
+management, ought to have brought the two classes together by giving
+them a common interest in every enterprise, and so to have gradually
+done away with all bitterness and strife. Employers might have used a
+part of their surplus profits in building better houses for their men,
+in giving them instruction as to a nobler way of living, in opening
+libraries and bath-houses and cooking schools and savings banks, in
+keeping them insured against sickness and death, and in doing a thousand
+things to show the men that they were thoughtful of their comfort and
+welfare. If the workmen could discover by such means that the employers
+were really their friends, I think it must have disarmed their hatred
+and antagonism. Then if, with these benefits, they could have received
+in money a small percentage above their usual wages, they would
+certainly have repaid such friendliness by a service so faithful and an
+industry so constant as to more than make up, in increased profits, for
+all the philanthropic expenditures.”
+
+“Doctor,” said Thorwald, “I am pleased to see you take such an interest
+in this subject. You talk as though you had thought of it before, and
+you have outlined almost the exact course pursued by the people of whom
+we are speaking. Hundreds of such experiments were tried and persisted
+in for a long time, both before the serious labor troubles began
+and after. Among their strongest advocates were men of theory in the
+professions, who were actuated by high motives but did not appreciate
+the practical difficulties. They were pretty sure they could get along
+with the workingmen without so much friction. But the profit-sharing
+scheme also had the aid of many excellent men among the employers, as I
+have said. However, for one reason or another, the experiments all
+came to naught. In some cases great expense was entered into to provide
+comforts for the workmen, and after a few prosperous years depression
+followed and the proprietors found they had undertaken too much. Several
+large failures, brought about by such lack of judgment, helped to
+produce disappointment and discouragement. Then it was found by
+experience that the evil-disposed among the workmen were not to be
+converted into honest, industrious, and faithful employees in any such
+wholesale manner. Making men over could not be done in the block. There
+never had been any difficulty in dealing with the sober, reasonable,
+well-intentioned men. The trouble had all come from the vicious, the
+incompetent, and the shiftless ones. And the more privileges this class
+obtained, the more they demanded. If their working day was made shorter
+in order to give them the opportunity of taking advantage of the free
+facilities for improving their minds, they loudly demanded another
+hour each day and frequent holidays, with the liberty of spending their
+leisure time as best suited their tastes. If they were given a share
+of the profits, they complained because it was so small a share, and
+thought they were being cheated when the proprietors would not let
+them inspect the books to see if the profits were not larger than
+represented. Then as partners they claimed the right to be consulted
+in the management of the business. Such demands brought on disputes, of
+course; and the natural result was that strikes were not unknown even in
+these humanitarian establishments. As the labor organizations were then
+in full blast the better class of men were drawn into the strikes, which
+sometimes became so serious that the owners were compelled to give up
+their philanthropic efforts and go back to the old system of giving what
+they were obliged to and getting what they could in return.
+
+“In general, employers found they had still an unanswered problem on
+their hands. An undue spirit of independence had been fostered among a
+class of uneducated, ill-natured, and thick-headed workmen, and society
+was rocked to its foundation in the effort to keep them within bounds.”
+
+“Will you let me make another suggestion, Thorwald?” asked the doctor.
+“Why did not all classes approach this difficulty in a businesslike way
+and work together to remove it? Why did not the state see that the right
+of private contract was a safe and useful one for all sides, and
+cease to infringe on it by law? Why did not the public teachers make a
+combined and continued effort to instill a conciliatory spirit into both
+sides, and to show how peace and brotherly feeling would be a mutual
+blessing? Why did not the employers--not one here and there, but all of
+them--treat their men as they would like to be treated in their place,
+make friends with them, talk reason even to unreasonable men, speak
+kindly to the unfriendly ones, urge the value of sobriety upon the
+intemperate, teach the incompetent, sympathize with the unfortunate, try
+to reclaim the vicious instead of turning them off harshly, and in every
+way strive to prove themselves to the men as beings of the same flesh
+and blood with them? And why did not the workingmen receive what
+was done for them with the right spirit--give up their envious and
+suspicious feelings, improve every precious chance of getting knowledge,
+work for their employers as they would for themselves, cease to use
+the power of the unions unjustly, cultivate amicable relations with
+everybody, and try in all possible ways to make true men of themselves?
+If the men had worked along this line they would have found they were
+bettering themselves in every way faster than they could by strikes and
+conflicts.”
+
+“Ah! Doctor,” replied Thorwald, “you have now the true solution. Such
+action would have annihilated the difficulties in a day. But to suppose
+every employer and every workman capable of following such good advice
+is to suppose that the world had then reached an almost ideal condition.
+The very existence and character of the troubles show how imperfect men
+were. It was a common saying then that human nature was the same as it
+had been in the earliest days and that it would never change while the
+world should stand. This was a mistaken view, for there had been a great
+change. The heart had lost much of its selfishness and had begun to
+grasp in some slight measure a sense of that distant but high destiny to
+which it had been called.”
+
+“If the world,” said the doctor, “was not good enough for these troubles
+to be cured by kindness, I am anxious to know how they were healed. I
+am sure you can tell us, for those people were your remote ancestors and
+you are far removed from such vexations now.”
+
+“That is true,” said Thorwald. “I can tell you how this social problem
+was solved, and how our race has found release from the many dangers
+that have threatened us. It has not been by man’s device or invention.
+But God, whose arm alone has been our defense, has always called men
+to his aid, and thus, in his own time and way, help has come in every
+crisis. The most important changes in society have been brought about
+gradually and without violence, and with that hint I think we had better
+leave this subject for the present. Some day I want to go over with you
+briefly the history of the work and influence of the gospel of Jesus in
+the world, and it will then be fitting to refer again to the period of
+which we have just now been speaking.
+
+“I am sure you will find it a great relief for me to change the subject,
+or stop talking.”
+
+“We will not object to your changing the subject,” said I, “whenever you
+think it best, but we shall try to keep you talking till we know a great
+deal more about Mars than we do now.”
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXI.
+
+WINE-DRINKING IN MARS.
+
+
+I went downstairs the next morning before the doctor was ready, and when
+I met Thorwald I said, without thought: “A fine morning.”
+
+“Yes,” he replied, “all our mornings are fine. I do not mean that the
+sun is always shining or that we do not have clouds and a variety of sky
+effects, but we know the clouds can be depended on not to give rain till
+night.”
+
+“Do you not lose something by having a perpetual calm?” I asked. “For
+I understand the rain in the night comes only in gentle showers. In our
+rough world some of us enjoy the grandeur of the storm.”
+
+“How about those who are exposed to its fury?” asked Thorwald in reply.
+“I do not see how anyone can really enjoy what is sure to be bringing
+sorrow or even inconvenience to others. Could a mother take pleasure in
+a tempest if she knew her son was in danger of shipwreck from it? Why
+should it change her feeling to know her son was by her side and that it
+was only strangers that were in danger?”
+
+“But,” continued Thorwald, “are you and your friend ready for an
+excursion to-day? If you are, I propose to give you a new experience.”
+
+“We shall be delighted to accompany you, and as I see breakfast is ready
+I will go up and tell the doctor to hurry.”
+
+“Oh, I wouldn’t do that,” exclaimed Thorwald. “You must try to learn to
+live as we do, and you will remember I said the other day that we are
+never in haste. If, for example, it were Zenith who was late, I should
+never think of calling to her to hurry, for I should know she must have
+a good excuse for staying. Her liberty of action is as valuable to her
+as mine to me, and however long she might keep me waiting, I should
+feel sure that her action was the result of right motives and correct
+reasoning. If the doctor does not appear, we can easily postpone
+our excursion to to-morrow. There would be no lack of occupation for
+to-day.”
+
+“What a delightful feeling it must be,” I said, “to be always free from
+hurry. It is the commonest experience in our imperfect state for one to
+start a few minutes late in the morning, and then be on a constant jump
+all day to make them up. One of the evils of our driving age is the
+wear and tear of our nerves in what we consider a necessary haste to get
+there.”
+
+“Get where?” asked Thorwald.
+
+“To get anywhere or to do anything that we set out to accomplish,” I
+answered.
+
+“I fear,” said Thorwald, “that I have talked too much about Mars and
+not insisted enough on hearing about the earth. Suppose something should
+happen to break off your visit?”
+
+“You wouldn’t miss much, Thorwald.”
+
+“We certainly should regret exceedingly not learning many things that
+you could tell us,” he said.
+
+“Yes,” I answered, “but you cannot profit by our experiences, while we
+of the earth are in a condition where we need all the help and advice
+you have for us. If we ever return to our home we want to tell all about
+your advanced civilization and how you have overcome the evils that vex
+our race. But I wonder why the doctor doesn’t come. I think I will go
+and see, but I promise not to interfere with his liberty of action.” I
+soon returned with my friend, and we all went to breakfast. The doctor
+said he would not eat much, as he felt somewhat indisposed. Here was
+something new in the life of this household, and each one began to
+express sympathy and ask what could be done. The doctor was amused, and
+I said I thought a good, hearty breakfast would make him all right. But
+Thorwald insisted that something unusual should be done, although his
+inexperience was so great that nothing feasible suggested itself at
+first. Zenith was in favor of all repairing to the library, hunting
+up the histories of the days when people were ill, and finding out
+the proper remedy for his ailment. This would have been a logical
+proceeding, but I thought to myself that they did not understand the
+value of time in such cases and that the doctor would probably either
+recover or die while they were at work.
+
+As I did not appear to be any more alarmed than my companion was, the
+excitement soon subsided. But Thorwald was not satisfied yet, and after
+some further thought his face brightened and he asked me if a glass of
+good wine would not be the thing for the doctor. When I replied that it
+would probably not hurt him, Thorwald told his son to go and bring up a
+bottle of the oldest wine in the cellar, and soon not only the patient
+but the members of the family and myself were all partaking. No more was
+heard after this of the doctor’s indisposition, and Thorwald no doubt
+felicitated himself that he had effected a cure. The situation was
+rather suggestive to me, and while we were drinking, and eating our
+breakfast, I could not refrain from saying:
+
+“If some of our friends on the earth could see us now, Thorwald,
+we would be discredited in all that we might say about your higher
+condition. It would do no good to expatiate on your ripe character
+and on your attainments in knowledge and virtue. I fear they would not
+believe much of it if they knew that you not only drank wine yourselves,
+but encouraged its use by giving it to your guests.”
+
+“Why,” said Thorwald, “you could tell them the wine was brought out to
+be used as a medicine, and that the rest of us drank to keep the doctor
+company. But when you see your friends you had better tell them the
+truth at once, that while we all take wine here frequently this is the
+only instance where I have ever known it to be used medicinally.”
+
+“They would tell us,” said the doctor, “that you have made one mistake
+at least, and that it is a dangerous thing to have wine in the house,
+and especially to give it to children.”
+
+“He would have a very gross and imperfect conception of our character,”
+ said Thorwald, “who should have the thoughts which you express. I can
+judge something of the nature of the feeling which you say exists on the
+earth, however, for only a few days ago I was reading a full account of
+the different temperance movements on our planet. Few subjects in our
+history are more interesting. Do not despise the temperance reformers,
+and if you think they are sometimes too radical you can afford to excuse
+that for the sake of the absolute good they accomplish. All through
+the early part of our career there was a perpetual warfare against the
+drinking habit. At first wine was an ordinary article of food, and in
+some countries more commonly used for drinking than water. There was
+much abuse of it, but in general people used it as a matter of course,
+without thinking they were any more responsible for the drunkards than
+they were for the intemperate in eating. But the evil of overdrinking
+increased, and some religious reformers found that the easiest way
+to check it was to forbid all use of intoxicants. Here is an extreme
+example that I have read of what one such reformer taught: ‘If a single
+drop of alcoholic liquor should fall into a well one hundred and fifty
+feet deep, and if the well should afterwards be filled up and grass grow
+over it, and a sheep should eat of the grass, then my followers must
+not partake of that mutton.’ Could any of your prohibitionists be more
+radical than that?
+
+“In later times many kinds of strong and poisonous drinks were made,
+and untold harm was done by their use. Drunkenness was the most fruitful
+source of crime and misery; it, more than any other cause, filled the
+jails, the almshouses and the insane asylums; it kept men in poverty
+and squalor; it scattered families and changed men, and sometimes women,
+too, into beasts. No class or profession was free from the evil, for
+it disqualified the scholar and statesman for their duties just as it
+unfitted the laborer for his daily task. It helped to debauch politics
+and public morals, while it brought disgrace and ruin to private
+reputation and character. More money was lost by it than was spent to
+educate and Christianize the world, and it cost more precious lives than
+war and pestilence combined. Being a crime utterly selfish and debasing,
+as well as extremely tenacious of its hold upon the individual life, it
+was almost the greatest enemy to the spread of the gospel.
+
+“Was there anything in the way of good to be said of the drinking habit
+to offset all this harm? Men drank to be sociable and companionable and
+to please their friends, and when the habit was fastened on them found
+they had lost every friend of value. They took to their cups to drown
+their sorrow, and found a sorrow more poignant among the dregs. They
+began the moderate use of stimulants to give strength to the body or
+activity to the brain, and discovered when too late that their abuse
+had brought down in common ruin both body and mind. No, it is impossible
+that anyone should ever attempt to make an argument in favor of
+drunkenness.
+
+“The more active the age the more prevalent was this evil, but
+the greater, also, was the determination to overthrow it. When the
+conscience was quickened by the growth of Christianity and men’s lives
+became more valued, many persistent efforts were made to stamp out the
+crime of intoxication.
+
+“Numerous societies were organized and good men and women entered
+heartily into the work. Every argument was used to show the danger of
+the drink habit and to teach the beauty and value of sobriety, appeal
+being made both to the reason and the conscience. The power of the state
+was invoked and punishment administered to the drunkards, while the
+manufacture and sale of intoxicants were restricted and sometimes
+prohibited. We see how firm a hold this evil had on all classes when we
+read that very often public sentiment would not permit these beneficent
+laws to be enforced. In all great reforms the apathy of a large part of
+the people has been a most discouraging feature.
+
+“Of course it was never intrinsically wrong to drink a glass of wine,
+but in view of the enormous amount of sorrow and trouble caused by
+overdrinking, can it be wondered at that many earnest souls came to
+abhor everything in the nature of intoxicating drink, and to practice
+and insist on total abstinence? Oh, I can tell you if I lived on the
+earth now I should be a radical of the radicals on this subject.”
+
+“Notwithstanding which,” said I, “here you are sitting at your own table
+and pouring into our glasses this delicious wine.”
+
+As a smile passed around at this remark it was Zenith who said:
+
+“Do you see anything incongruous in that?”
+
+I paused a moment to choose a reply, when the doctor spoke up with:
+
+“Far be it from us, Zenith, with our earth-born ideas, to even seem to
+pass judgment in this happy place, but I presume my companion was trying
+to imagine what our temperance friends, who do not know you, would say.”
+
+“As for us,” said Thorwald, “I trust we shall be justified in your eyes
+at least, before we are through, but let us inquire about those whom you
+call your temperance friends. I suppose they would have a poor opinion
+of a man who was loud in his public advocacy of temperance and yet drank
+wine at home.”
+
+“I think,” I replied, “that I have heard some such term as ‘hypocrite’
+applied to men of that class.”
+
+“And yet,” continued Thorwald, “they would think it perfectly proper for
+a man to keep razors away from his children, but at the same time have
+one or more concealed about the house somewhere for his own use. It
+might very easily be argued that razors were dangerous things under any
+conditions; the children might find them by accident and do great harm
+to themselves or others; the man himself, though accustomed to their
+moderate use, might, in a moment of overconfidence, go too far and
+inflict a serious injury on himself or even a fatal one; and, further,
+it might be said that razors are of no real use to men, for nature knows
+best what is needed for protection, and if hair on the face was not
+necessary for the well-being of man it would not grow there. This
+argument could be pushed until, under an awakened public sentiment, the
+manufacture and sale of razors might be prohibited.
+
+“I have said this to introduce a plea for tolerance of opinion. You were
+created, I have no doubt, as we were, with different temperaments and
+inclinations, which, with various kinds of education, produce different
+opinions. You cannot all have the same mind on any given subject, nor
+all approve of the same methods of reform, but you will make but little
+progress in true temperance until you can bury minor differences and
+all work together. You must learn that everything that has been made,
+whether produced by the direct hand of God or through the agency of man,
+has its proper use. Do you say that some people would express the wish
+that everything intoxicating could be destroyed from the earth, as
+having no proper use? All the evil in it will surely be removed, but the
+good will remain. At present it is one of the stubborn obstructions in
+your thorny path. If your way were to be suddenly made smooth and easy
+your race would never learn self-denial, the only road that leads to a
+higher state. Your present imperfect life is a daily conflict, and it is
+only by battles won and temptations overcome that you will ever be built
+up into virtuous and God-like characters.
+
+“I said you must be tolerant. I can conceive that a man might feel
+perfectly safe in the use of wine and have no scruples of any kind
+against it, and yet be sincere in urging people in general to totally
+abstain from it on account of the harm some might receive. This man must
+not be denied a place in the temperance ranks. Another might think it a
+sin to touch a drop. One might believe the only right way to deal with
+the subject would be to prohibit the sale entirely, another would think
+more might be done by some other method of restriction. All that I have
+read of our experiences goes to prove that the people of the earth
+will never drive out this evil till all shades of temperance people get
+Christianity enough into their hearts to unite on a broad platform and
+work as one army with a single purpose.”
+
+“Will you not tell us,” I asked, “how the reform was finally effected on
+Mars?”
+
+“Like all other true reforms,” replied Thorwald, “it came about through
+the sanctified commonsense of the church of God, not suddenly by any
+means, but gradually and only after many years of severe struggle.
+A combined effort of all good people, especially women, working with
+spiritual as well as moral weapons, produced an impression which was
+lasting. When men were taught from their childhood the dangers which
+accompany the drinking habit; when one class of people denied themselves
+all indulgence for the sake of the class who were weak; when drinking
+became a disgrace, and those who could not keep sober were taken in
+charge by the state and permanently separated from the rest of the
+community; when the church awoke to its full duty and the rich poured
+out their money; when men and women forgot fashion and pride and caste
+in their love for the practical work of Christianity; when the power of
+the gospel had strengthened men’s will and had begun to plant in
+every heart a love for something purer than fleshly appetite; when the
+spiritual part of our nature began to gain the ascendency and to occupy
+the place for which it was made; then intemperance loosed its hold and
+soon disappeared, never to trouble us again.
+
+“You see it was a long road with us and I have no doubt it will prove
+so on the earth, but do not on that account lose courage. And let me
+counsel both of you to join the ranks of the reformers when you get
+home.
+
+“Although intemperate drinking has long been unknown among us, as well
+as all other gross imperfections of character, we still make good wine,
+and no more danger is felt in drinking it than in using milk. Everybody
+can have all he wants of it. Our tables may be supplied with the
+luxuries of every clime, but we have learned that it is best for us to
+be temperate in both eating and drinking. I am sorry your temperance
+friends, as you say, would not approve of us, but when you see them
+I trust you will do what you can to let them understand that such
+temptations as this of which we have been speaking belong to the
+childhood of a race, and that the people of Mars have long since passed
+out of infancy.”
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXII.
+
+A GENUINE ACCIDENT.
+
+
+Mona did not feel obliged to be present at our conversations after she
+had explained her position to us, but I saw her many times every day. I
+tried to respect her feeling and avoid the subject which still occupied
+so many of my thoughts. I fought against my passion, which I told myself
+was unmanly, since it was not returned in the good, old-fashioned way.
+What man of spirit would submit to the enchantment of one who, while
+professing she loved him with her whole heart, declared in the same
+breath that she also loved equally well half a dozen others? I tried
+to make up my mind to shake off the spell and be free. To this end
+I endeavored to examine my heart with the purpose of discovering if
+possible the secret of Mona’s power over me.
+
+I was sure I could not be weak enough to be held so firmly by her beauty
+alone, lovely as she was. Her mental equipment did not seem to furnish
+the ground for such a deep attachment, and I could not believe that
+I was good enough to be so powerfully drawn to her by the inimitable
+character of her spiritual nature. What, then, was the attraction? It
+was not far to seek. What was it that first moved me, before I had ever
+seen her? What accomplishment was it that always came to my mind first
+when I thought of her? In short, what would Mona, silent, be? I could
+hardly imagine. But then, she was not silent, and I knew well enough
+that, struggle as I night, I never could successfully resist the subtle
+charm of that voice.
+
+So, as I saw no escape for me, I next began to study how I could infuse
+into Mona’s love for me something more of the personal element. How
+could I teach her to love me just a little for myself alone? Evidently
+she had been educated in an atmosphere of the most uncompromising
+monotony. Where everybody loved everybody what chance could there be for
+lovers? I wondered what would move Mona. Some heroic action which should
+appeal to her sympathies would probably do it. She had been pleased with
+the part I had taken in discovering her retreat in the moon, and perhaps
+something else in that line would help me. But what was there one could
+possibly do in Mars which could be called heroic? I should have to
+ask Thorwald if he could think of anything I could do to arouse the
+imagination of Mona and bring her a little closer to me.
+
+Not long after I had been indulging in these conflicting thoughts I had
+a more promising opportunity than I had hoped for of showing Mona that I
+could do something besides make love to her.
+
+One morning she came to me and said she would like to go out for a long
+ride. As I never lost an opportunity of being alone with her I eagerly
+accepted this one and hurried off with her, lest any other member of
+the household should appear and propose to accompany us. Mona was as
+agreeable as ever, and chirruped away in her musical style as we walked
+down the hill in search of just the right carriage. We soon found one
+which pleased us, and as I was by this time perfectly at home in the
+management of these vehicles, we started off at a brisk pace along a
+road which took us through a charming section of the country. It made
+me happy to reflect that this pleasant ride was at Mona’s suggestion.
+Although she had peculiar views about my manner of wooing, she did not
+shun my company, and I could not refuse to believe she really loved
+me as she said. I turned on more power, and as our speed became
+exhilarating I said to my companion:
+
+“Mona, they will think we have eloped.”
+
+“Excuse me,” came out in sweet notes, “you will have to explain.”
+
+“Dear me, were your people so very proper that you don’t even know the
+meaning of that word? Didn’t they ever do anything wrong?”
+
+“Oh, is it wrong to elope?”
+
+“That depends entirely on the point of view. But I cannot explain
+further without bringing up the subject which you have forbidden me to
+speak about.”
+
+“What subject is that? I have forgotten that I have ever put you under
+such a prohibition.”
+
+“Why, the subject that is always nearest my heart and nearest my lips,
+the subject of my great love for you, dear Mona, so different from my
+regard for any other person.”
+
+“Oh, I remember now, but I assure you I had forgotten all about it.”
+ And here her voice suddenly lost much of its tenderness and assumed a
+character which she rarely employed, as she continued, “But let us not
+discuss that topic again. I already know all you have to say on it, and
+why should we waste our time with such useless talk when there are so
+many more valuable things to occupy our attention?”
+
+“Forgive me,” I exclaimed. “If you will promise me not to sing in that
+tone again I will talk about anything you wish.”
+
+“I agree,” she responded, and never did her accents sound sweeter.
+
+Somehow I was not so much affected by Mona’s coldness this time as
+before, and I was able to recover my cheerfulness at once. I then
+determined to give her no occasion for another rebuff if I could help
+it, but to do all in my power to entertain her with what she called
+sensible conversation. There were many things connected with society on
+the earth in which she took a lively interest, and I made a great effort
+to talk myself into her favor, so that she would not say again that she
+preferred the doctor’s company to mine.
+
+We had been riding a couple of hours or more, generally at a swift pace,
+when, from a high point in the road, we saw we were approaching the
+shore of the sea or a large lake.
+
+Mona was so delighted with the view that I said:
+
+“If we can find any kind of a boat on the shore we will have a ride on
+the water.”
+
+“Can you manage a boat?” she asked.
+
+“Oh, yes, if it is not too large.”
+
+“But it may be some new kind, something you are not acquainted with.”
+
+“Then I shall have to study it out. But you are not afraid to go on the
+water with me, are you?”
+
+“If there is anything in this pleasant world to give me fear it is water
+in such mass as that,” she replied, stretching out her hand toward the
+sea.
+
+“But I thought you were afraid of nothing,” said I.
+
+“You have taught me the word,” she responded, “and I hardly know its
+meaning yet, but I must acknowledge that I shrink from the ocean. Its
+vastness, so much water, overwhelms me. You know it is many, many years
+since the moon had any large bodies of water.”
+
+“So it is,” I exclaimed, “and everything will be new to you. What sport
+we shall have, and I shall make it my business to see that the water
+does not harm you.”
+
+We hurried down to the shore and found the prettiest little boat I had
+ever seen all ready for us, as if we had ordered it for the occasion. It
+was evidently intended for children, but was fitted with both sails and
+oars, and also, I was glad to find, with a little screw and an electric
+apparatus to turn it. I was overjoyed with our good fortune, and
+prepared at once to embark. But Mona plainly hesitated. She kept up her
+musical chatter and tried to be as cheerful as ever, but I saw she was
+not as eager for the trip as I was. I did not let her see that I noticed
+her manner, however, and went on with my preparations. When I had
+brought the boat around so that she could step into it conveniently, she
+looked in my face, and asked in a voice which trembled with excitement:
+
+“Are you sure you understand how to manage it? It is all so strange to
+me.”
+
+She wanted to decline to make the venture, I thought, but her courage
+was too great. Now was the time when I proved myself still a son of the
+earth, with fallible judgment and a will too much engrossed with self. I
+had been wishing for an opportunity to do some difficult thing for
+Mona, something noble which should win her affection, and here, when the
+chance offered, I did not recognize it. The truly heroic action would
+have been to respect Mona’s feeling and give up the idea entirely, for I
+knew she had a strong aversion to trusting herself on the water. But
+it was really my own pleasure and not hers that I was seeking, for in
+answer to her question I said hurriedly:
+
+“Why, certainly. It is as easy to control as the carriage we have just
+left. We’ll not put up the sails if you say so, and I promise to bring
+you back all safe and sound in a short time. I am sure you will enjoy
+the new experience, and then I want to hear how your voice sounds on the
+water.”
+
+“Well, I will go,” she said, “on your promise to protect me; but I have
+the queerest sensation, I don’t know what to call it. Do you think it is
+fear?”
+
+“Oh, no, it can’t be that, because there is nothing to fear. Are you
+ready now? Let me take your hand.”
+
+As she stepped in and felt the motion she realized how unstable the
+water really was, and sank down at my feet, emitting an involuntary
+note of not very joyful quality. But she showed great bravery and, as
+I helped her to a seat, she said she would no doubt enjoy it after a
+while. I now shoved the boat out and used the oars a few minutes,
+but soon tiring of that exercise, I looked into the operation of the
+electric motor and found it quite simple. Turning on the power, the
+screw worked to perfection and sent the boat through the water in good
+shape.
+
+Mona was now recovering her spirits, seeing that no harm came to
+her, and at my request she sang some of her native songs. This was
+delightful, and I resigned myself to the full enjoyment of the occasion.
+It seemed to me that the excitement she had just passed through added a
+new and pleasing quality to her voice, if that were possible. As I sat
+listening and musing, my memory carried me back to the first time I had
+heard this marvelous singer, and I could not help contrasting the two
+situations. I felicitated myself on my present happiness, for when Mona
+was singing I wanted nothing more. I seemed to forget then that she
+would not listen to my tale of love, or if I thought of it I attached no
+consequence to it. The voice seemed to be a thing by itself, and a thing
+which in some way appeared to belong wholly to me, whether Mona was mine
+or not.
+
+She stopped singing after a while and asked if we had better not start
+for home. To which I replied:
+
+“I turned the boat around some time ago, and we are now headed directly
+for the place where we found it.”
+
+When she expressed surprise at this I steered about in various
+directions to show her how easily it was done, and then some mischievous
+spirit, which. I myself must have imported into Mars, put it into my
+head to try and see how fast our little vessel could go. My idea was
+partly to satisfy my own curiosity and partly to treat Mona to as
+great a variety of sensations as possible. The electric apparatus was
+extremely sensitive, and a slight movement of the lever made an instant
+increase in our speed. A little more, and we began to go through the
+water at quite a handsome rate. I enjoyed it immensely, and if Mona did
+not like it she had pluck enough not to make it known. This emboldened
+me to put on still more power, which sent the boat ploughing along at
+such a velocity that the spray flew all about us and the boat shook so
+that we kept our seats with difficulty. Not knowing what I might be led
+to do next, and being in reality terribly frightened, if she had only
+known what the feeling was, Mona now mildly expostulated with:
+
+“Isn’t this a little too fast? Something might happen.”
+
+“Don’t be afraid,” I replied. “I’ll take care of you. The doctor must
+have taught you that last word, as it is not used here. You know nothing
+ever happens in Mars. Everything goes along in the even tenor of its
+way, moved by laws which are fixed and certain. This boat, you see,
+is strong and well able to bear the strain. The water is smooth and
+contains no hidden rocks, and it is perfectly easy to steer clear of the
+shore, which you see is some distance off yet. But now that I have given
+you this little excitement, which you will not regret after it is all
+over, I will stop the current which produces this great force and bring
+in an artificial law, as it were, to override the natural law now in
+operation. Just look at this lever and see how easily it is done.”
+
+I seized the handle, intending to shut off the power suddenly, but by
+some unaccountable mistake I turned it the wrong way. Instantly I saw
+the bow of the boat jump out of the water and go over our heads, and
+then Mona and I realized that something had actually happened on Mars,
+for we were both buried under the boat.
+
+I was the first to extricate myself and come to the surface, and, not
+seeing my companion, I thought she was surely lost. I might save her
+yet, though, and was just about to dive under the boat again, when her
+head appeared insight, only a little way from me, her eyes wide open
+and, really, a smile on her face.
+
+“Can you swim, Mona?” I cried, excitedly.
+
+She had not the breath to answer or else thought my question
+unnecessary. But I soon found my own answer when I saw her head sinking
+again just as I had reached her. I clutched her, and, as I held her head
+above the water, I began to understand that I had something on my hands
+to fulfill my promise to take care of her. At this instant I saw one
+of the oars from the boat floating a little way from us and managed to
+secure it, holding Mona with one arm and swimming with the other. I now
+helped my companion to half support herself by grasping the oar, while
+for the rest she was induced to throw an arm over my shoulder. In this
+way I was left free to make what progress I could through the water, and
+I lost no time in swimming toward the shore, since there was no hope of
+our being able to make use of the boat, which now lay, bottom up, on the
+surface.
+
+All this was done without a word from Mona, although I had been talking
+to her freely, giving her directions and assuring her of my ability
+to save her. As this was her first experience in drowning, she had
+evidently been trying to sing under the water and had found it so
+difficult that she had determined to keep her lips closed till she was
+well out of it. With this thought in my mind I said to her as soon as we
+were under way:
+
+“Your head is so far above water now that you can open your mouth with
+perfect safety. You see I can talk, and my head is much lower than
+yours.”
+
+She was so situated that I could not see her face easily, and therefore
+I do not know whether she ventured to unstop her lips or not, but no
+sound came from them if she did. Perhaps the water still filled her ears
+and made her deaf. So I called aloud:
+
+“Can you hear me, Mona?”
+
+No answer in words, but I imagined I felt a slight pressure of her hand
+on my shoulder. I toiled on, musing over her strange behavior, till
+it occurred to me to try a subject which had never failed to bring a
+response from her.
+
+“I hope this will make you more affectionate to me, dear Mona,” I said;
+and then, as she made no answer, I continued:
+
+“If we reach the shore alive and get home safe you will love me more
+than you do Foedric, will you not?”
+
+I thought this would bring an answer, and I was not disappointed, except
+in the manner in which it came. Not the faintest note escaped from her
+lips, but a throb of feeling came along her arm, and her hand grasped
+my shoulder with unmistakable vigor. I suppose she thought I would
+understand what this answer meant, but I was puzzled. It might mean so
+many things. Perhaps her heart was softening toward me and she was so
+much affected by her love for me, stronger and deeper than she had ever
+thought it could be, that she dared not speak. With this possibility
+in view I began to feel very tender toward her and to experience the
+pleasure of one whose love is returned in full measure.
+
+But then her answer might have quite a different meaning. What if she
+were telling me that she had determined never to speak another word on
+that subject, and that my question was an offense to her? Surely she
+had told me often enough to talk about more sensible things, and perhaps
+this was only a new and forcible way of repeating the same injunction. I
+reflected, too, that it was hardly fair to take advantage of the present
+situation to force upon her a prohibited topic of conversation.
+
+There was another possible meaning to her manner of answering me.
+Perhaps she was indignant because I had insisted on her getting into the
+boat with me against her wish, and held me strictly responsible for
+all that followed. With this view in mind I imagined she was saying to
+herself:
+
+“I want nothing to say to you. I accept your assistance because I cannot
+get to shore without you, but when once out of this dreadful water I
+shall have nothing more to do with you.”
+
+To place against the latter theory I had the fact that Mona’s face had
+beamed with pleasure all the time I was getting her fixed so I could
+swim freely. Dwelling upon this memory my mind returned to thoughts of
+love, and I felt that I must try once more to start that familiar song.
+So I said:
+
+“Forgive me, Mona, if I have offended you, and let me hear your voice
+again. You are too good to punish me so severely for my fault in getting
+you into this trouble. Will you not cheer me with a few notes while I
+bear you safely to the shore?”
+
+Again a pressure of the hand but no expression from the lips, and I was
+left to further conjecture over the strange mood my companion was in.
+I swam leisurely, so as not to exhaust my strength, and as there was a
+considerable distance to go I had plenty of time to think after I had
+found it impossible to induce Mona to enter into conversation. Although
+so near, my companion seemed far away, and I became extremely lonesome.
+In trying to determine what had occasioned such a mishap in a world
+where I had been taught to believe such things entirely out of date,
+I came to the conclusion that the Martians owe their freedom from
+many misfortunes to their ripened characters, rather than to anything
+peculiar in their physical laws. With my imperfect development I had
+made an error in judgment in taking Mona upon the water, and with my
+untrained mind I had simply made a mistake when I turned the lever of
+the electric apparatus the wrong way. The Martians had reached such high
+attainments in every direction that it was practically impossible for
+them to make mistakes. Thus had they freed themselves from many of the
+vexations which harass the people of a younger world.
+
+I was fortunately able to endure the strain of the great task which I
+had undertaken, and finally succeeded in bringing my precious burden
+to land and helping her to a place of safety. We were both pretty well
+fatigued with our exertions, but felt no danger from our wet clothes,
+because of the mild and balmy air.
+
+Mona’s behavior still perplexed me. Her manner was delightfully pleasant
+and familiar. Now that we were safe she appeared to appreciate the
+humorous part of the situation, and I was loath to believe that she
+could or would affect such good nature if she were harboring unpleasant
+feelings toward me. But I could not account for her continued silence,
+for as yet no word nor sound of any kind had come from her lips. Her
+face and hands, however, were continually in motion, and after I had
+overcome my usual stupidity I discovered that she was actually making
+signs.
+
+“Why, Mona,” I exclaimed, “can’t you speak?”
+
+She shook her head.
+
+“Nor sing, I mean?”
+
+Another shake.
+
+“Do you mean to say you have lost your voice?”
+
+A nod.
+
+For a moment a shadow settled upon her face, occasioned, no doubt, by my
+falling countenance, for I must have shown something of the great shock
+to my feelings. Mona without the voice of Mona! I could not at once
+realize the depth of my loss. And now it was her turn to attempt to
+restore my spirits, as we fell back to our original mode of conversing.
+I urged her to make an effort to sing, and she told me she had tried
+many times, and that it had grieved her to be so unsocial while I was
+toiling so hard to save her life.
+
+“Why, my dear,” I answered, “I thought you were angry with me for
+speaking to you again about my love.”
+
+Her reply was a look so full of tenderness that I was almost sure
+that, if she had had her voice, she would have used it more kindly than
+before. Still it may have been only compassion.
+
+By this time we had found our carriage and were on our way home, and I
+am sure that if, on our arrival, our friends had judged from our looks,
+they would have supposed I, and not Mona, had experienced a great
+misfortune.
+
+Avis had returned to her distant home several days before this, but
+Antonia and Foedric were at Thorwald’s when we arrived, and I had the
+unpleasant task of relating to the whole household our sad experience. I
+did not spare myself, although they were all kind enough to offer every
+manner of excuse for me. Everybody showed sympathy with Mona in
+all possible ways, but she herself still exhibited the same sunny
+disposition as ever, although the house seemed quiet without her bright
+and happy song.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXIII.
+
+THE EMANCIPATION OF WOMAN.
+
+
+Family life in this model home went forward without a jar. Thorwald and
+Zenith exhibited not the least sign of restraint before us, so that
+what we saw from day to day we were sure was their natural and usual
+behavior. They never worked at cross purposes, were never impatient
+nor forgetful of each other, but without effort, apparently, to avoid
+friction, they always did what was best pleasing to themselves, and at
+the same time what was just suited to each other. This happy state of
+affairs did not come from a division of labor, by which Zenith should
+have nothing to do with outside matters and Thorwald nothing to say
+about how things should go in the house, but it seemed to proceed from
+their innate love of harmony, their perfect compatibility, and their
+practical equality. The doctor and I saw there was something here far
+different from anything existing in the conjugal relation on the earth,
+but we could not decide just what it was. The doctor was strongly of the
+opinion, however, that it arose in some way from the higher condition of
+woman.
+
+“You know,” he said, when we were alone, “the civilization of a people
+on our planet is pretty correctly measured by the position occupied by
+the women, so that here, in this exalted society, they must be held in
+high esteem, if there is the same analogy between the two worlds in this
+as in so many other things.”
+
+I quite agreed with him, and took the first opportunity when we were all
+together to introduce the subject.
+
+“I should like to direct the conversation,” I said, addressing our host
+and hostess, “to a topic of considerable interest, just now, to the
+people of the earth. I am sure we can learn something of value in
+regard to it from you, and I will introduce it, if you will pardon my
+impertinence, with a personal question. Will you please tell me who is
+the head of this household?”
+
+“Zenith.”
+
+“Thorwald.”
+
+Two answers in one breath.
+
+“It is very polite of you,” I said, “to disclaim the honor and each one
+give it to the other, but, seriously, is there no head?”
+
+“Why, no,” answered Thorwald; “we never think of such a thing, and yet
+you must admit that things run smoothly without it.”
+
+“I will then try again, if you please,” I said. “Which of you is the
+bread-winner?”
+
+To which Zenith replied:
+
+“That question is hardly appropriate, for you know we do not work for
+our daily bread. The bread would come anyway, whether we worked or
+not; but then, as a matter of fact, every one does work at some useful
+occupation, because we have found out by long experience that it is much
+better for us than idleness. If you reply that you have not seen us work
+while you have been here, I will say that our time is considered to be
+well employed if we can be learning anything or imparting knowledge to
+others, as this is supposed to add indirectly to the general well-being
+of society. But perhaps what you want to know is which of us does the
+more to benefit the world, and even this would be a difficult question
+to answer. Thorwald creates, we will say, an elaborate design for a
+noble cathedral, and as he watches its fair proportions rise under the
+hands of skilled men, who take an equal pride and satisfaction in their
+work, his heart is made glad by the thought that for many years after he
+has left the body the structure will be used as a place for teaching the
+way of life, with its graceful spires pointing men to heaven. While I,
+perhaps--”
+
+“Let me tell that part,” interrupted Thorwald. “While Zenith, with just
+as strong a feeling of responsibility for a share of the world’s work,
+composes a beautiful song and writes the music for it, and then sings it
+before a vast audience, while the phonograph catches it and holds it for
+future generations. Is she not doing as much as I am toward earning the
+bread for the family?”
+
+“It certainly cannot be denied,” I answered. “But what I want to find
+out is, to use a homely expression common with us, which of you two
+holds the reins in this home?”
+
+“Well,” replied Thorwald, laughing, “that is a figure of speech which is
+not employed here, for we use no reins of any kind; but I know what you
+mean, and I will answer you by saying that we each hold one rein, and in
+that way drive as steadily as if we were one person.”
+
+“But when disputes arise, which one gives in?”
+
+“Disputes never arise, and if they did we would both ‘give in,’ whatever
+that expression means.”
+
+“If not your wills, do not your wishes or inclinations sometimes oppose
+each other?”
+
+“Why, no,” Thorwald answered quickly. “It is impossible, and for this
+reason: each one of us is so intent on trying to please the other that
+we are saved from all temptation to selfishness, which is the root and
+source of all differences.”
+
+While I was considering what next to ask, the doctor broke in with:
+
+“I think my companion will be obliged to discontinue his questions
+and accept the truth that here we have found an ideal household, where
+husband and wife are in reality equal. Let me ask if the women, all over
+this happy world, are treated with as much consideration as in the case
+before us.”
+
+“Why, what a funny question,” exclaimed Zenith, before Thorwald could
+speak. “Why don’t you ask if, all over this happy world, we treat our
+men with consideration and respect? But, to save you the trouble of
+asking, I will say that, all over this happy world, a man is held in
+as high esteem and is as tenderly cared for as a woman, every bit. Your
+words, Doctor, remind me that I have several times wanted to speak to
+you about a certain manner which you and your friend have exhibited
+toward me. No one could accuse you of disrespect to Thorwald; indeed, I
+think your carriage toward him is excellent, but with me you seem to be
+a little strained, and your manner is a trifle effusive. Pardon me
+for the criticism. I know your action is well meant, although it is
+something I am not accustomed to.”
+
+“I suppose,” said the doctor, “you refer to our feeble and, it appears,
+stupid efforts to be polite.”
+
+“Oh, then I ought to feel complimented instead of finding fault with
+you. But why should you wish to be more respectful to me than to
+Thorwald? He is more worthy your regard than I am, and has as many
+rights in this house as I have, exactly.”
+
+“We have been taught to pay an extra deference to women,” answered the
+doctor.
+
+“Why?” asked Zenith. “Because they are superior beings?”
+
+“Hardly that, I think.”
+
+“Then it must be because they are considered inferior, and you seek to
+hide your real feeling, which is one of commiseration, by a false show
+of politeness.”
+
+“That sounds harsh,” said the doctor, “and I believe you are not
+correct.”
+
+“Oh, I do not mean to criticise you personally,” Zenith made haste
+to say, “but the system. It seems to me that you, Doctor, try to be
+sincere; and assuming that to be so, let me ask you why you are
+more ceremonious in your manner to your neighbor’s wife than to your
+neighbor’s husband.”
+
+“Well, let me see. Why do I instinctively make a special show of respect
+in meeting a woman? I never analyzed my feeling, but I will try to do
+so for you. I think one principal reason is because it is so very
+conventional that she would expect it, and think me either piqued or
+ill-bred if I omitted it. Then, deeper than that is a desire to tell her
+that I recognize in her and admire those graces and amenities which
+are supposed to be peculiar to her sex. And I suppose there is, also,
+a little selfishness in it, as if I were asking her to take note that I
+knew what were the usages of good society.”
+
+“But would you not also tell her in effect by your flattery, if you will
+excuse the word, that she and the rest of her sex are by birth not quite
+equal to men, and you are trying to make up the difference all you can
+by politeness?”
+
+“I am not conscious of such a feeling, I am sure,” answered the doctor.
+“It seems to me that woman is entitled to some extra attention because
+she is physically weaker than man.”
+
+“True,” said Zenith; “that is a good reason why she should be
+protected.”
+
+“And should we not maintain and practice toward her the spirit of true
+courtesy?”
+
+“Most certainly. But women should also exercise the same spirit toward
+men. The duty is reciprocal. The days of knight-errantry, when men were
+chivalrous and women were merely beautiful, should not last forever;
+women, too, should learn to be chivalrous. Do not imagine I would have
+you less considerate or thoughtful of anyone, or less demonstrative in
+your feelings, if you will only remember that men and women are equal,
+have equal duties and privileges, and should have similar treatment.
+Great respect should go where it is deserved, whether to man or woman.
+If I were an inhabitant of the earth and a woman, I should try to have
+some such thought as this: one man of character knows another good man
+is his equal; therefore as they treat each other so I would have them
+treat me, for then I would know that they held me, also, as an equal,
+and not as a doll, pretty and well dressed perhaps, but brainless, nor
+as a child who must not be told things too deep for its mind.”
+
+“I begin to understand you,” said the doctor. “You first get me to admit
+that women are not a superior order of beings, and then you argue that,
+as we do not treat them exactly as we do each other, we cannot consider
+them our equals, and therefore nothing remains but that we must look
+upon them as inferior to us.”
+
+Zenith gave a pleasant little pink laugh and answered:
+
+“I see you have found me out. But you do not deny that my logic is
+correct.”
+
+“I have tried to tell you several times,” returned the doctor, with a
+smile, “that, as for me, I do not feel guilty of harboring the least
+degrading sentiment toward women. But I cannot answer for the opinions
+of the world at large. This subject promises to be more interesting than
+we anticipated. I see you know a great deal about it. Have women always
+been accorded an equality with men, or is it a part of your mature
+development?”
+
+“Now, Doctor, just see how prejudiced you are. You would never think of
+asking if the men of Mars had always been the equal of women. It would
+be quite as natural with us to ask it in one way as the other.”
+
+“I will try again, then, by asking if the two sexes have always been so
+happily equal as at this time.”
+
+“I will give you a direct answer to that question. They have not. But
+I think I have talked enough for once. Thorwald will tell you all about
+our tortuous course in reaching our present condition, if you wish.”
+
+“Not at all,” said Thorwald. “I would like to tell it, but this is a
+topic that Zenith has taken a special interest in, and she shall have
+the pleasure of talking to you about it.”
+
+“Now then!” I said to myself, “here is a difference right away. Zenith
+says Thorwald must tell it; Thorwald would like to do so, but insists on
+sacrificing himself for Zenith’s sake. Now, what if Zenith should prefer
+the pleasure of self-denial, and refuse to let Thorwald immolate his
+desire so readily? What could prevent war in this happy family? Would a
+quarrel be any less a quarrel because its cause was unselfishness rather
+than selfishness?”
+
+But if I, with a worldly heart, was expecting a lapse from these
+excellent people, I was disappointed, for Zenith, with a look of wifely
+affection toward Thorwald, said pleasantly:
+
+“Very well, since Thorwald is so kind, I will do my best, if you are
+sure you will not tire of hearing me talk.”
+
+The doctor and I expressed our pleasure with the arrangement, and Zenith
+began:
+
+“I wish to say at the start that, whatever may have been your experience
+on this question, it is hardly possible that your mistakes have equaled
+ours, for the folly and wickedness of our race have been stupendous and
+of long continuance.”
+
+“If you will excuse the interruption,” I said, “I will suggest that we
+can sympathize with you, as our history shows the greatest injustice to
+women.”
+
+“Your remark proves to me that you cannot fully sympathize with us. I
+did not infer, as you seem to do, that the women of Mars had been the
+only victims of injustice.
+
+“But without further delay let me begin, only do not hesitate to break
+in upon my story with any inquiries that suggest themselves to you.
+
+“We read that God created man, male and female; that is, there came
+forth from the hand of the Maker a male man and a female man, and all
+through that early age of gold they loved each other, and served their
+God with purity of heart and without a selfish thought. God was their
+father, they were his children, with equal privileges, equal affection,
+and equal ability to do faithful service. No evil spirit was near
+to whisper in the ear of either a suggestion of personal leadership.
+Ambition, that ambition which would exalt self at the expense of
+another, was not yet born, and neither of these happy beings could
+conceive it possible to achieve a higher happiness by lording it over
+the other.
+
+“So they lived till sin came; and among the woes which sin brought in
+its train there were few more dreadful than the decree that the man
+should rule over the woman and that her desire should be unto her
+husband. For thousands of years our race struggled against that giant
+evil. During a long period the condition of woman was so low that we
+know nothing of her, and when she reappears it is only as the servant
+of man. Made in the image of God as the companion of man and an equal
+sharer in all his rights and duties, she is now his chattel, a piece of
+property, held for his selfish use or disposed of for his advantage.
+
+“Even in these dark days individuals of our sex rose out of the general
+degradation and showed that they were fitted by nature for a higher
+position. But sin and ignorance kept the mass of them under the heel of
+their masters. As civilization advanced there came some mitigation of
+their lot, and where pure religion gained a foothold women began to
+receive recognition; but their state was deplorable indeed among all
+those peoples whose religion was only gross superstition and idolatry.
+
+“In the process of time Christ came and brought the light of heaven
+to this dark world, and from that hour woman can well say that her day
+began to dawn. One of the sweetest strains in her song of salvation is
+that evoked by the memory of her resurrection from misery and abasement
+to a position of honor among the children of men. The change, however,
+was very gradual, for Christianity itself was slow in gaining ground;
+but the gospel was ever the friend of woman, as of all the oppressed,
+lifting her up where she could influence the world and begin to fulfill
+her destiny. As fast as the nations shook off barbarism and became
+in any degree enlightened, the unnatural burdens were lifted from
+the shoulders of woman, although for a long time she was compelled to
+perform more than her share of severe toil even among people who thought
+themselves civilized.
+
+“Then came a time when, in nations of some refinement, there was such
+a reaction against the injustice and degradation to which woman had so
+long been subjected that she suddenly became an object of sentimental
+regard among courtly men. Her noble qualities were exaggerated far
+beyond their merit, and she was set on a pedestal, to receive homage and
+all the outward forms of respect from those whom she so recently served
+as a menial. Being so poorly fitted by her long training in serfdom
+for such exaltation, what wonder is it that her head was turned by the
+flattery, and that her recovery was slow and difficult? The insincere
+and superfluous manners of that period remained for ages a vexation to
+our growing intelligence and a hindrance to our true progress; and,
+from what you have said, I am inclined to think you of the earth are now
+going through some such experience as ours.
+
+“After that epoch had been passed, woman never fell back to her former
+condition, although she did not yet for a long time reach a position
+that was at all enviable, except as compared with the dark days of her
+bondage. But she was now where she could take advantage of the general
+uplifting of the race, and though kept in the background by man as much
+as was possible, she was constantly growing and learning, preparing
+herself for a future of which she would then dare not even to dream.
+
+“And now I am coming, in this rapid sketch, to that period of activity
+and change which Thorwald has described to you in its industrial
+features. In portraying some of the evils of those days, arising from
+our almost ineradicable selfishness, he was obliged to make his picture
+a somber one, a necessity under which, happily, I am not placed. Looking
+at the times, not as compared with the present era but with what had
+gone before, which was the only comparison the people of that day could
+make, there was much room for encouragement. It was, in truth, a bright
+day, whose beauty, however, consisted not so much in the realization
+of happiness as in the promise of still brighter days to come. Material
+prosperity abounded, education flourished, and religion was beginning
+to creep down from men’s heads into their hearts. Wrongs were righted,
+justice enthroned, and philanthropy sprang into being. Even while there
+was so much evil, and while some men seemed to be trying all they
+could to keep back the breaking dawn, the day was surely coming. The
+brotherhood of man, long preached as a settled principle, now became
+a living force, showing itself in a multitude of devices for relieving
+distress, lessening pain, alleviating poverty, and for the general
+betterment of society.
+
+“Surrounded by such a universal spirit of improvement, woman felt the
+impulse of new life, and heard the call to a higher service to humanity
+than she had ever yet rendered. As men’s minds broadened and their
+hearts grew more tender, and as their sympathies reached out to the weak
+and down-trodden of every class, it was not possible that their ancient
+prejudice against woman could much longer survive. Her rise from this
+time forward was rapid. Let us examine the position which, under the
+influence of this kindly feeling, she soon came to occupy. Protected by
+many special laws, guarded by all the legitimate forces of society, but
+exempt from military and police service, honored for her high and noble
+qualities, respected by all whose regard was of value, and loved with a
+true affection which scorned the question of individual rights, her lot
+seemed indeed a happy one. Shielded from the severe struggles of life,
+freed from the cares of business, released in a great measure from
+uncongenial work and from the dangers attending exacting labor, with the
+disagreeable things in life kept from her as much as possible, always
+seeing the best of every man’s character and manners, and, more than
+all, being supreme in her natural domain, the home, with none to dispute
+her right, what more could she ask?”
+
+“What, indeed?” I remarked, as Zenith paused a moment after her
+question. “The picture you have drawn looks so bright, beside your
+description of her former lot, that I have no doubt she was now
+contented and happy.”
+
+“So you think that shelter and protection and the love of husband and
+children and the serenity of home ought to be enough to satisfy one
+who was created with a spirit as restless, a brain as active, an
+individuality as marked, and hands as clever as those of man?”
+
+As Zenith threw this question at me and waited for me to answer, I
+realized that I had been caught by her former inquiry, and found not
+that Zenith was about to take advanced ground on the subject before
+us. Wishing I had not drawn her attention so squarely to my personal
+opinions, and yet feeling obliged to stand up for my position, I said:
+
+“It seems to me that woman’s surest path to honor and happiness is that
+marked out for her by nature, a path which she adorns because so well
+fitted for it, and that to forsake the home and compete with man for
+the thousand places in the work of the world would be to cast aside the
+charm of her womanliness and all that makes her what she is, a solace
+and comfort to all the world. If she seeks for a pleasurable life, where
+can she find such keen and lasting pleasure as among the duties of home,
+and if she is ambitious to lift the world to a higher plane, where is
+it possible for her to have so much influence as in the nurture of the
+young?”
+
+“So spoke the men of our race in the era I am describing to you,”
+ replied Zenith. “It seems as if you must have been reading some of our
+old writers, so closely do you follow the ideas then prevalent. I have
+read and reread those histories until I am quite familiar with them,
+and you shall hear how such views as you have expressed soon became very
+old-fashioned.”
+
+“I am sure your account will closely concern us,” I said, “for the age
+of which you are now speaking must be that corresponding to our own
+times on the earth. The woman question is attracting special attention,
+and seems bound to remain with us indefinitely; but I am frank to say I
+think our women are making a mistake in trying to elbow their way into
+man’s domain, whatever may have been the result of the movement in this
+favored world.”
+
+“I suppose you would have them stay at home where they belong,”
+ said Zenith, with a good-natured laugh, which sounded as if she were
+confident enough of her ability to meet any possible argument.
+
+“Yes,” I replied, “out of pure kindness to them. It is an astonishing
+thing to me that they can think of gaining anything by giving up all
+that is distinctive in their nature and becoming more like us. I am not
+so much in love with my own sex as to enjoy seeing our sisters and our
+wives and daughters trying to make themselves over into men.”
+
+I now felt that I had said enough, and so expressed myself to Zenith,
+but she replied pleasantly that she was glad I had told my thoughts, as
+it gave her an opportunity to say some things that might not otherwise
+have been called for.
+
+“You seem to think,” she continued, “that woman’s supreme happiness is
+to be gained by self-effacement. I suppose her custom is with you, as it
+formerly was here, to renounce her own name at the marriage altar.”
+
+“It is,” I replied.
+
+“And from that hour,” resumed Zenith, “she makes every effort to bury
+herself, to deny her personality, and to lay aside whatever individual
+desires and aspirations she may have had; that is, if she is what
+you would call a true woman. If she objects to this renunciation and
+attempts to make an independent career suited to her talents, then she
+is strong-minded and is trying to unsex herself. With the world full of
+work waiting for her nimble fingers and loving heart, she is compelled
+to suppress all secret hope of doing something to impress her own
+character on that world, because her only duty is in the home. A man is
+also called upon to be a good husband and father, but that by no means
+comprises all he is expected to be and do. To him it is given to strike
+out into untrodden fields, and, without reproach, to make a name for
+himself if possible.
+
+“You say work is hard and disagreeable, but is it all dull and
+uninteresting? Are there not sweet moments of hope in every work, and
+then the joy of achievement when it is over? Do not men find this joy
+and the rewards of labor amply sufficient? The more difficult the
+task, the greater the satisfaction when it is accomplished. Business is
+perplexing and uncertain, you say, but what of the triumphs of success?
+Would any man refuse to undertake an enterprise because success was not
+certain? The very uncertainty adds zest to the business, and makes
+hope possible. From all this striving and achieving, and from all the
+satisfying rewards which come with success, woman is debarred. Then
+there are the professions and the wide range of occupations which
+require education and special training. What a variety for man to choose
+from, while you would confine woman to one; and a great many women, not
+being born good cooks or good housekeepers, cannot fill that one with
+any credit to themselves. So what can life be to them compared with
+what it ought to be? Think of the opportunities they might have in these
+higher occupations of competing for the prizes of life--honor, fame,
+position, riches, and, above all, the consciousness of doing some good
+in the world. Oh, it is impossible for you to realize anything of the
+longing in woman’s heart to be someone, to do something, and so to be
+relieved from the everlasting monotony of the treadmill, which, if men
+were obliged to submit to it, would make the majority of them insane.
+
+“You see I have put myself in the place of one of my sex in that olden
+time, and have spoken as she felt when to express her feelings would
+have been almost a shame to her.
+
+“What I desire to show you is that woman had not then received all that
+was due her, although men seemed to think she was fully emancipated. But
+events moved rapidly in that stirring age, and this great question could
+not be kept in the background in a day when every abuse and injustice
+was allowed a hearing and reform was in the very air. Even the dumb
+beasts had such powerful advocates that cruelty and unkindness
+were greatly checked. What wonder then, as men’s sensibilities and
+consciences became quickened, that they should begin to see, what they
+could not see before, that a fuller liberty ought to be accorded to
+woman? But this vision came not without help. Sometimes in our history
+we have known of a race being deprived of their freedom, and so benumbed
+by their condition that they desired nothing better, and so perforce
+waited for a movement for their enfranchisement to come from without. It
+was not so in this case. Women themselves cried out against their
+lot. They were not so enraptured with the calm and quiet of their
+conventional life but that they felt the stirrings of ambition for
+something different, and they did not fear to raise their voice for more
+liberty.”
+
+“Liberty!” I echoed. “Were they really deprived of liberty?”
+
+“Yes, liberty to choose a calling that would suit their individual
+tastes and satisfy their growing ambition.”
+
+“Excuse me,” I again interrupted, “but were not these women who
+exhibited so much restlessness unattached--that is, without many family
+ties? And were not the great majority so contented in the shelter of
+home and so engrossed in the care of husband and children that they were
+entire strangers to any such disturbing fancies, or ambitions as you
+call them? And, again, did not this large class of happy and busy wives
+and mothers resent the action of those self-appointed liberators who
+were fighting for an image of straw and crying themselves hoarse over
+imaginary wrongs?”
+
+Zenith smiled again in that peculiar manner which told me, in the
+pleasantest possible way, that she was perfectly sure I was on the
+losing side, and with the smile she resumed:
+
+“Your questions are so familiar to one who has studied this subject that
+they seem like another plagiarism, as it were, from our histories, but I
+will give you fair answers.
+
+“It is true that the early protests came from the solitary women,
+unfortunately not a small class at that day, who, being without legal
+protectors, felt the inequalities of the law and the unjust restraints
+put upon their sex by society, but the truths they spoke came with added
+force because of their intimate acquaintance with their needs.
+
+“You are wrong in your supposition that the mass of women were so
+shallow in mind as to know nothing of those longings for a fuller, more
+satisfying life. Deep in their nature, planted by the Creator himself,
+was the same lofty spirit with which man was endowed, and it could not
+be smothered by marriage. Taking a husband should not, and in reality
+does not now, change one’s ambition or aim in life any more than taking
+a wife does, but in those benighted days men, after marriage, could
+go forward with their plans just as if nothing had happened, while
+the women were supposed to forget their high hopes and aspirations and
+confine themselves entirely to the trivial round of domestic duties.
+The men, however, were much mistaken if they thought their wives were
+forgetting. They but bided their time.
+
+“In your last question you are not altogether wrong, for there were a
+few unthinking ones who joined with some of the men in ridiculing the
+whole movement as unnecessary and foolish. But this class had not much
+influence, and, in spite of such opposition as they offered, the reform
+made steady progress.
+
+“As a help to obtain what she was striving for, woman asked for the
+right of suffrage, and thereupon had to undergo a fusillade of cheap
+criticism from those who would not understand her, and who supposed she
+wanted this privilege as an end and not as a means. Men were slow to
+grant the right to vote, but after much discussion suffrage began to be
+allowed in matters where the women were particularly interested. With
+the first concession, however, men realized that the force of all their
+arguments was broken, and before many years the full right was bestowed.
+
+“And now, Thorwald, I am sure our good friends did not come so far from
+home to hear me talk all the time. The rest of the subject concerns
+your sex as much as mine, and you had better take up the story at this
+point.”
+
+“Oh, no,” replied Thorwald, “I shall not take the narrative away from
+you now, you may be sure, for what is left is just the part you can best
+relate. I shall enjoy it as much as our friends from the earth. But I
+propose that we hear the rest this afternoon, and that, in the meantime,
+we go out for a drive.”
+
+“A drive,” I asked, “what do you drive?”
+
+“You shall see,” Thorwald answered, as he stepped to the telephone. I
+thought I should hear his message, but found the instrument had been
+further improved. In the use of the telephone as I had known it,
+everybody in the house was much surer of hearing what was said than the
+person at the other end of the line was, but here the one addressed was
+the only one to get a word of the communication.
+
+Thorwald talked to us a short time about other matters, and then asked
+us all to prepare to go out. When we reached the door the doctor and I
+were surprised to see a beautiful and commodious carriage, to which were
+attached, with the lightest possible harness, four of the handsomest
+horses we had ever seen. There were, besides, two fine saddle-horses for
+the children, who were to accompany us.
+
+Thorwald drove, but without rein or whip, the horses being guided
+perfectly and easily merely by word of mouth. The animals were also so
+large and strong that they seemed to enjoy the sport as much as we did.
+
+“Do you mean to say,” I inquired, “that such a turnout as this can be
+had for the asking?”
+
+“Certainly. I just said through the telephone that I would like a
+carriage for four persons, and two saddle-horses. The man who has the
+care of the horses is a friend of mine who likes the work better than
+anything else.”
+
+“The horses appear to be well broken,” the doctor remarked.
+
+“Broken,” said Zenith, “what do you mean by that, Doctor?”
+
+“Why, it is an expression by which we mean that the high spirit with
+which they were born has been subdued, making it easy to train them to
+obedience.”
+
+“They must be wild, then,” spoke Zenith again, “and you are obliged to
+tame them. The difference here is that the horses are born tame and do
+not need breaking, and though they have plenty of spirit, as you see,
+they are so intelligent and have such solidity of character that there
+is never any danger that they will become unmanageable.”
+
+“That must be so,” said I, “or you could not be sure of being free from
+accidents. But tell us, Thorwald, how it happens that we have not seen
+others enjoying this delightful mode of traveling.”
+
+“It is not very singular that you have not seen any horses before,” said
+Thorwald. “They have been entirely superseded in all kinds of business,
+you remember, by mechanical power, and even for pleasure-riding most
+people are too tender of heart to enjoy using them. They fear the horses
+will be fatigued, and they do not like to see them straining themselves
+in dragging a heavy load, when there is a force that has no feeling
+ready to do it a great deal better.
+
+“But you can see these horses are not working very hard, and it is a
+good thing for us sometimes to give up a little sentiment. There is some
+danger that our sympathies may carry us too far. For instance, it is
+probably a real kindness to these horses to give them a little work, if
+we are only careful not to render their service galling to them; and yet
+there are many people who never drive, on account of the feeling they
+have for the beasts.”
+
+“It would be a good thing if we had more of that sentiment on the
+earth,” said the doctor.
+
+[Illustration: “THE HORSES ARE BORN TAME”]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXIV.
+
+THE EMANCIPATION OF MAN.
+
+
+After an exhilarating ride, in which the doctor and I, certainly, were
+not troubled by any over-sensitiveness in regard to such robust horses,
+we returned to the house and soon found ourselves seated in the music
+room listening to one of their famous dramatists reciting his own words
+through the phonograph. Next we had some music, and then a poem, from
+the same prolific instrument.
+
+When this entertainment was over, and after lunch, Zenith, at our urgent
+request, seconded by Thorwald’s solicitation, resumed her narrative.
+
+“We read,” she began, “that during the time when men were grudgingly
+bestowing the right of suffrage on our sex, woman was making rapid
+strides toward a position in society fitted to her talents and
+aspirations. One occupation after another became available, and it was
+no longer a disgrace or hardly a peculiarity for women to be earning
+their living instead of depending for support on their fathers or
+brothers. This tended to create in them a feeling of independence,
+and in many employments they had every right to be proud of their
+attainments, for, with so little training, they often surpassed the
+men at their own trades. Even then, however, some of the old
+prejudice against the sex seemed to remain in force, since women were
+discriminated against in the matter of wages. When they did the same
+work and did it better, still their pay was less than that of men. But
+this was a temporary injustice, which disappeared, as it was bound to
+do, when woman had acquired her full freedom and had been in the field
+long enough to prove her right and ability to stay.
+
+“The work at which women excelled was that requiring a quick
+intelligence, nimble fingers, and the faculty of easy adaptability. In
+the realm of physical strength woman was not a competitor, but there was
+another field in which she more than made up for that loss, and in which
+she early began to show great native ability. That was in all pursuits
+demanding the education of the mind. Here is where she was to look for
+the greatest of her victories. Nature had endowed man with a superior
+strength of body and muscle, but woman with a higher order of mind.”
+
+“I must interrupt you here, Zenith,” said the doctor. “This is assuredly
+an instance where your race differs materially from that of the earth,
+for with us man has by nature the stronger mind.”
+
+“How do you know?” asked Zenith.
+
+“It has been proved so in all ages.”
+
+“Yes, but does not the expression ‘all ages’ include with you only the
+ages in which man has been the ruling spirit, and woman has been kept
+down and allowed but little opportunity to show the strength of her
+mental faculties? You know our history takes in not only a period
+similar to that covered by your whole career, but also other ages which
+we believe correspond with the years yet to come for the inhabitants of
+the earth. It has been during the latter era, a time which you have not
+yet seen, that woman has proved the truth of my assertion.”
+
+“I wish to make myself understood,” said the doctor again. “I am willing
+to grant the equality of the sexes, as far as natural rights go; that
+is, that every man and every woman ought to have the opportunity to
+develop all their talents, untrammeled by any edict or convention of
+society. Perhaps I would agree with you also in believing it would
+be better to treat men and women alike, with open-hearted, sincere
+courtesy, and use equal ceremony in showing respect to individuals of
+either sex. But it seems to me that there is a vast difference between
+all that and your latest position. There are many people of our
+generation on the earth, and their number is rapidly increasing, who
+believe in the essential equality of the sexes, but I never heard one
+put forward anything approaching the claim you make, that woman was
+created with a higher order of mind than man--I believe that was your
+expression; and this is why I say that in this particular your race
+differs greatly from ours.”
+
+To which Zenith replied:
+
+“I am not so sure of that, my dear doctor. It would seem hardly fair
+that man should be given both physical and mental superiority. But
+please tell me again why you think man has the stronger mind.”
+
+“Because he has done the thinking of the world. The intellectual
+achievements of woman, though occasionally brilliant, are not to be
+compared with those of man. This is true in every department throughout
+our history--in science and art, in religion, in literature, in
+government, and in everything that I could name. It is hardly to
+the point for you to say that woman would have done more if she had
+possessed a fuller freedom; perhaps it is true, but it seems to me a
+matter of conjecture. Neither is it a complete answer for you to
+say that in the years to come woman, being wholly enfranchised, will
+revolutionize the world by her unexpected powers. We can judge only by
+what she has done. Excuse me, Zenith, for trying to uphold my point.
+It is rather discouraging, when I can see by your face that you can
+demolish my argument in a moment, whenever you choose to attempt it.”
+
+We all laughed at the doctor’s want of courage, and Zenith answered:
+
+“I beg your pardon; I am greatly at fault if I have any such expression
+in my face. My confidence, if I have any, is not in any supposed ability
+I may have in conversation, but in our experience here on Mars. Your
+history matches ours so well up to your generation that I cannot but
+think the likeness will continue; and if it does, then woman, in your
+near future, will prove the truth of my statement. But before I proceed
+to tell you what she has done in this world, let me ask you if your
+women have shown any mental peculiarity which distinguishes them from
+men.”
+
+“Yes,” answered the doctor, “their intuitive perceptions appear to be
+more developed than those of men, probably because they use them more.
+A man may reach a certain conclusion by a course of reasoning, while
+a woman will often arrive at the same point much quicker by intuition.
+That is, a man will tell you why he knows a thing, when a woman simply
+knows it because she knows it.”
+
+“Is that faculty akin to anything else with which you are acquainted?”
+
+“Yes, we call it instinct in animals.”
+
+“Is not the possession by woman of that quality a silent but powerful
+suggestion to you of the fact that she was treated like an animal in the
+dark days of her inthrallment?”
+
+“I had not thought of it,” returned the doctor, “but it certainly may be
+looked upon as a sad commentary on that rude age.”
+
+“Do you consider this instinct an advantage to woman?” asked Zenith.
+
+“Certainly; it is a great help to her, often serving with much success
+in place of other faculties.”
+
+“Would it be a valuable quality to add to man’s mental equipment?”
+
+“Yes, indeed, if he could retain all his other powers of mind.”
+
+“Well, now let me ask you what would come to pass if the women of the
+earth, possessed already of that quickness of thought, that ability to
+discern the truth by direct apprehension, should, by thorough education
+and many years of patient training, acquire the power of reasoning, the
+judgment, the strength of mind, and all the intellectual powers now held
+by your men?”
+
+“That is a very large ‘if,’ and I cannot tell you what would happen,”
+ answered the doctor.
+
+“I have only described,” continued Zenith, “what actually took place on
+our planet. When the movement for giving woman a higher education began,
+men looked at the subject just as you do now. Women were supposed to be
+of inferior mental capacity, and it was thought to be a foolish thing to
+attempt to educate them. ‘Better educate the boys,’ men said, ‘and let
+the girls learn to cook and sew and to play the piano; that is all that
+will ever be required of them.’ But, in spite of every discouragement,
+the girls improved their opportunities so well that they were soon
+taking the prizes away from the boys. Broadminded philanthropists of
+both sexes endowed schools for them, and the highest institutions of
+learning opened their doors to them. When the young women, almost from
+the start, began to be successful in competitive contests in different
+departments of scholarship, it was generally thought that such cases
+were exceptional and would not be apt to be repeated very often. But
+this was a great mistake. These instances proved to be no exception. It
+was found that woman’s facility of thought and native acuteness gave her
+an immense advantage over the masculine mind in mastering any ordinary
+course of study. But this was surface education. The reasoning power
+and the solidity of mind for which men were distinguished in mature life
+came later, but they came.
+
+“At first, only here and there a girl was fortunate enough to be offered
+a liberal education; but when it was found that in almost every instance
+they brought great credit on themselves, the number increased with
+rapidity, until a college course was the customary and expected close of
+almost every girl’s school-days. For it was not the rich only that had
+this advantage, since by this time education was free, being provided
+either by the public or by universities richly endowed.
+
+“All this time the boys seemed to find a great attraction in business
+and the trades, and appeared to be willing that the girls should have a
+monopoly of the higher education. One circumstance that greatly helped
+this state of things was the extraordinary furor that prevailed just
+then in the matter of manual training. This system had received more or
+less attention from educators for many years, and it had been introduced
+into schools as an addition to the regular course of study. That was
+a material age. Men desired first of all to be practical, and the
+new method of teaching, being eminently practical, became exceedingly
+popular with the boys. The parents, not dreaming where it would end,
+and seeing the eager interest with which their sons now crowded into the
+schools, encouraged them in it.
+
+“Schools of technique, in which the literary branches were entirely
+subordinate, sprang up on every hand, and two or three years spent
+in these institutions took the place of a college course. The old
+universities tried to meet the changing sentiment by paying more
+attention to science, by giving the students a free choice of studies,
+and by shortening the course when desired. But the mechanical idea in
+the new education seemed to be the attraction. The boys were seized
+with a passion for doing something with their hands, and their inventive
+faculties were quickened, increasing in a remarkable degree their
+interest in their work and studies.
+
+“For a long time this movement was thought to be a great advance in
+education. It was such an improvement on the old way, to find the young
+men learning something useful, rather than wasting their time over the
+dead languages and other things they would never need after finishing
+school. And it must be acknowledged that all this industrial impulse
+was of advantage to the world in its way. It multiplied labor-saving
+machinery, added to the people’s comforts in many ways, and increased
+the general prosperity and well-being of society as far as material
+improvements could do it.
+
+“But there was another side to the picture. So much time could not be
+given to training the hand and hardening the muscle without detracting
+from the attention due to the cultivation of the brain. To be sure, the
+brain was active enough, but it was receiving a one-sided development,
+which boded it no permanent good.
+
+“I have spoken at such length of this almost universal rage for
+technical education, because it was a chief factor in turning the world
+over.”
+
+We all smiled at this expression, and the doctor asked:
+
+“How did it overturn the world?”
+
+“By aiding in taking the real brain work away from the men and giving it
+to the women.”
+
+“Did this actually happen?”
+
+“Certainly it did. Not in a day, but in the process of time. How could
+it be otherwise, when the women alone had been for many years going
+through that long, patient mind-drilling which is the only preparation
+for a thorough education? When the young men observed that a civil
+engineer, a superintendent of a factory, or even a skilled mechanic
+could earn a larger salary than a college graduate, it took away much of
+the incentive for the old-fashioned education, and they were perfectly
+willing to see their sisters take what they had not time for.
+
+“And so it came about that the women began to crowd into the learned
+professions; and, as there was not one which they could not adorn, the
+prejudice against them soon wore off, and before many years they were
+competing with men in all the grandest fields of human action. Even in
+the matter of government woman’s power was felt. Men were so engrossed
+in the endeavor to develop to their fullest extent the material
+resources of the planet that they became careless of the higher duties
+of citizenship, especially after the women began to take control of
+things. They saw affairs were well managed, and seemed to be relieved to
+have them taken out of their hands, not dreaming that they were forging
+chains for themselves which it would take long years to break. Although
+the world was constantly growing better, it was far from a perfect age.
+Human nature was still a synonym for selfishness, and with men and
+women measuring swords on every intellectual battlefield a contest for
+supremacy was inevitable.
+
+“Man was absorbed in his chosen work, he was indifferent to public
+affairs, and he was, in his way, proud of the position woman was taking
+in the world, but he could not let her assume his place as acknowledged
+leader without a struggle. He said he had given her her rights, and now
+she wanted to deprive him of his rights.
+
+“There was too much truth in this, for society had not reached a state
+where the sexes could live in perfect equality. It was admitted by all
+that there must be a head, both in the household and in the state, and
+it long remained a question which should rule. But was there ever a
+struggle of long continuance on the earth in which mind did not triumph
+at last?”
+
+“I must answer in the negative,” replied the doctor, “although I
+perceive it will help your argument.”
+
+“Why, this is not an argument,” continued Zenith. “It is simply a story
+of what has taken place on this planet. If you have any doubt of it,
+ask Thorwald. You have known him longer than you have me, and, perhaps,
+would have more confidence in what he would say. He ought to have told
+this part of the story himself. I know you think I am exaggerating,
+because you see I am making my sex come out ahead.”
+
+Zenith said this in a playful manner, which showed she was as far as
+possible from being offended, but the doctor pretended to take her
+seriously, and replied with feeling:
+
+“Do forgive me, Zenith, for my thoughtless expression, and pray do not
+stop in your narrative at this interesting point. I will tell you how I
+came to use the word to which you object. While you were talking I was
+thinking how one would be received on the earth, who should attempt an
+argument to show the probability that anything like what you are telling
+us should ever come to pass there.”
+
+“Well, how would such an argument be received?” asked Zenith.
+
+“It would probably be passed by without any notice whatever, if you will
+excuse me for telling the truth,” answered the doctor. “It certainly
+would not be looked upon as serious, and I fear it would not even
+receive the dignity of being called funny. Even the women would laugh
+feebly at the extravagant notion, and think no more of it. But we were
+talking of Mars, not of the earth, and I am exceedingly anxious to know
+how affairs progressed here, though there is no likelihood that they
+will ever be paralleled among us.”
+
+“I would not be too sure, Doctor,” spoke up Thorwald. “Better wait till
+Zenith is through.”
+
+“I shall wait longer than that before I believe the earth will ever go
+through such an experience. But now I am ready to listen.”
+
+“When I speak of woman assuming leadership,” resumed Zenith, “do not
+misunderstand me. Although society was not perfect, still it was not a
+gross age, and there was no return to the manners of those rude times
+when women were cruelly treated and men took all the good in the world
+to themselves. Oh, no, there was no absence of good manners. Women
+treated men with the greatest courtesy, showing them every mark of
+outward respect, and being much more polite to them than to each other.
+And it was not all show, either; for, in spite of the fact that the men
+were patronized unmercifully, the women really thought a great deal of
+them, and often remarked to each other that the world would be a dull
+and uninviting place without them. They admired their robust strength
+of body, their brawny arms and well-trained hands, as well as their many
+excellent qualities of mind; and they never tired of telling them in
+honeyed words how necessary they were to their happiness.
+
+“The women were very considerate also in the matter of laws. The rights
+of the men were well looked after. To be sure, they were not allowed
+to vote and hold office, but in their fortunate, happy condition it was
+incredible that they should care about a little thing like that. Were
+they not perfectly protected by the law, and did they not have as much
+to do already as was good for them? The women argued that if the men
+were given the right of suffrage it would only be the cranks who would
+avail themselves of it, for the great mass of the men were perfectly
+satisfied with their condition.
+
+“A man was allowed the right of dower in his deceased wife’s estate, and
+he could hold property in his own right, even after marriage. His wife
+could not even deed away her real estate without his consent. By this
+you see how carefully the men were shielded from the liability of coming
+to want.
+
+“In matters of the heart it was not considered modest for a man to make
+a direct proposal, but in reality the affair was in his hands, for no
+woman could make any advance unless she received encouragement from the
+object of her affections.”
+
+“How about the home?” asked the doctor. “Did man take the place of woman
+there?”
+
+“He did whatever he was asked to do in the home. You must know that at
+this time domestic duties were quite different from what they formerly
+were. Men had not given up all their thought and time to handicraft for
+nothing. The drudgery had pretty well disappeared under the full play of
+the inventive faculties, so that the home duties were not exacting.
+What work there was, was shared by the sexes, each doing that which was
+appropriate. The management of the home was, of course, in the hands of
+the women.”
+
+“Was there no department in which the men were masters?” inquired the
+doctor.
+
+“Not one. They thought they were in full charge in their peculiar field
+of labor, but here, as everywhere, the women dictated their terms when
+they chose.”
+
+The doctor was bound to learn all he could about this curious state of
+things, and asked again:
+
+“What effect did all this strain upon the mind have on woman’s physical
+nature? You have admitted that she was weaker in body than man, and it
+seems to me she must have been ill prepared for the struggle you have
+narrated. From the experience we have had in educating women, we believe
+it is a positive injury to them to attempt to reach that high degree of
+culture which is easily and safely compassed by men. Our idea is that
+nature never intended that they should study much, for their minds
+are really not any stronger than their bodies. Too much brain work has
+already ruined the health of a good many girls, and when we left the
+earth the reaction against the higher education of woman had fairly
+begun. For we believe that her mental faculties can be developed only at
+the expense of her physical powers, and that if she were to persist in
+such an abnormal cultivation of her intellect it would be sure to result
+in the deterioration of her offspring and disaster to the race. So, for
+the sake of the generations unborn, we--that is, the male men of the
+earth--who still retain our grip on affairs, have about decided to put a
+stop to this foolish mania among our young women. We will probably pass
+laws, setting a limit in the several branches of study beyond which
+girls shall not be allowed to go, either at school or privately.”
+
+We all laughed heartily at this idea, including the doctor himself, who
+continued:
+
+“Well, what else can we do to stop them? Stop them we must, or we shall
+soon become a race of weaklings and mental imbeciles.”
+
+Thorwald had been getting more and more interested, as I could see by
+his face, and now broke out with:
+
+“Doctor, you surprise me. I have acquired such a respect for your
+intelligence that I can hardly believe you serious. If Zenith will
+excuse me, I should like to answer your question. Hard study did not
+hurt our young women, and it never hurts anyone. It is careless living
+and a disregard of the laws of health that do the harm. Physical
+training was an important part of the education of our women. They could
+never have accomplished what they did without sound bodies, and it must
+be unnecessary for me to say that the more highly cultured they became
+the more our race improved. Learning never made poor mothers. Ignorance
+does that. Do not keep education out of the home. Keep out folly, low
+desires, sordid ambitions, uncultivated tastes, narrow-mindedness, envy,
+strife, wastefulness, inordinate pleasures, and every evil thing that
+comes from an empty, ignorant mind. Keep out the darkness; let in the
+light. It is not God’s way to give capacity and desire for noble things,
+and then shut the door to their attainment.”
+
+“Many thanks, Thorwald,” exclaimed Zenith, “for your good help. And now,
+Doctor, will you ask anything further?”
+
+“I must admit,” answered the doctor, “that your experience gives you
+more knowledge of the subject than we possess, and perhaps we are wrong.
+Of course, we want that to come to pass which will be best for our race.
+But let me ask if the gentler sex, as we call them, did not lose, by
+such superior culture, their gentleness and their charm. The masculine
+type of woman is not at all popular with us.”
+
+“This question, Doctor,” answered Zenith, “shows that you have a poor
+conception of our condition at that time. This great change in society
+had been gradual, and I must remind you that by the time it was
+accomplished the world was much improved in every way, although, as we
+have seen, it was by no means perfect. In her treatment of man there was
+none of that domineering spirit which you might expect; and the victory
+she had achieved was never used harshly. Her reign, if firm, was mild.
+And woman herself, in the general betterment of things, had improved,
+even in the direction you mention. Instead of becoming less womanly, in
+her changed condition, every admirable quality in her had ripened toward
+perfection, while she had thrown off much that was disagreeable and
+unlovely in her disposition. In personal appearance the advance had been
+remarkable. Being relieved of the severe labor and sordid cares which
+were once her lot, and with her mind set free by high culture and her
+artistic tastes developed, nature asserted itself by making her truly
+a delight to the eye and a comfort to the heart of mankind. Whatever
+charms she possessed in her old life were now doubled, making her indeed
+a blessing to the world and preparing her for the next great change,
+which came with the advent of the present age.”
+
+“In spite of the sweetness and beauty surrounding them, did not men fret
+at the firm hand that held them down?”
+
+“At first, yes. But as time went on it came to be looked upon so
+naturally that it was hardly thought of as a thing which should not be.”
+
+“How long did such a state of things continue?”
+
+“It continued until our race had outgrown all such trivial things as
+selfish ambition and personal strife, until our characters had ripened
+for a higher service than the old world had ever dreamed of, and until
+love reigned in our hearts, supreme and unquestionable.”
+
+“What makes the situation seem so strange to you is because it is so
+contrary to your experience. Let me see if I cannot make it look more
+reasonable to you by epitomizing our history on the subject in this way:
+
+“Our career is made up of three eras. The first was one of brute force,
+when man ruled by strength of body and subdued the world to our use.
+Everything weaker than himself, even woman, his natural helper, was made
+to feel the power of his arm. This age lasted long, but its rigor slowly
+passed away, and it merged gradually into the second era, which was
+one of mind. Here, too, man thought to rule, claiming the leadership
+by right of possession and natural endowment. But woman’s sharpness
+of intellect was more than a match for him when it was given full
+opportunity, and she won, as we have seen, after a long struggle. The
+third and present era is a spiritual one. In the realm of the spirit men
+and women are equally endowed, and hence it is that in this age you find
+the two sexes living in perfect equality.
+
+“Comparing the words you have spoken with what I have read of our
+history, I conclude that the earth is now passing from the first to the
+second era. The struggle is on. Soon your sex will be considering the
+question of the emancipation of man. You have the sincere sympathy of
+both Thorwald and myself, and that you may emerge from your trials as
+happily as we have from ours is our heartfelt wish.”
+
+Zenith closed, and the doctor was silent.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXV.
+
+AN EXALTED THEME.
+
+
+The doctor and I had not forgotten that Thorwald still held in store for
+us a talk on the most important theme of all. We wondered why he did
+not give it to us, as he had many opportunities in those days of quiet
+pleasure. He seemed to take great delight in hearing from us everything
+we chose to tell, asking numerous questions which showed a growing
+knowledge of the earth and its inhabitants.
+
+It was the doctor who finally inquired when we were going to hear what
+he had promised us.
+
+“I suppose I have been waiting,” answered Thorwald, “for you to ask for
+it. I could listen to your talk a great deal longer with pleasure and
+profit. It is astonishing how closely your history matches ours up to
+your times. The period you have been describing to me as that in which
+you live corresponds with a similar age here. It was a time of great
+activity and rapid change, and one whose records make a deep impression
+on many of our writers, judging from the attention they give to it. It
+was an enviable time to live in, if you compare it with the previous
+ages, but chiefly on account of the promise it contained of the glorious
+day to come.
+
+“Doctor, are you sure you desire to hear about the growth of
+Christianity in this world and the blessings it has brought us?”
+
+“Most certainly,” answered my companion. “I want to learn all I can of
+your history and present condition, and, as religion seems to occupy
+a chief place in both, anything you may say on the subject will be
+listened to with delight.”
+
+Perhaps Thorwald was a little disappointed because the doctor did not
+give a more personal reason; but he failed to show it if he was, and,
+after calling to Zenith to come and sit with us, he began:
+
+“Fair shines the sun on this fair world. So shines the sun on other
+fair worlds. Its piercing rays dart out in all directions from the
+great glowing mass, and as they fly outward they lose in brilliancy
+and intensity every second. In eight minutes some of these rays are
+intercepted by the earth and find there an atmosphere well adapted to
+receive them. In twelve minutes some strike this world, and although
+they are less powerful than those that fall on the earth, the conditions
+here are favorable for their reception. At varying distances from the
+center other rays find other planets as ready to welcome them, no doubt,
+as ours are.
+
+“As the sun is in the physical universe, so is the Sun of righteousness
+in the domain of the spirit. Infinite in power, wisdom, and love, he
+comes wherever there are souls to save, shedding light in every dark
+spot, bringing life and hope and comfort, and lifting men out of the
+darkness of sin up to a condition of peace and happiness. Many ages ago
+he came to this planet, and started into life those forces which have
+brought us to our present state. Then he came to the earth, and you
+are at this time beginning to feel more intensely the impulse of his
+mission.”
+
+“Your illustration is a forcible one,” said the doctor, as Thorwald
+paused a moment, “and weakens my former position, which would make it
+necessary for me to believe that all the rays of the sun, except the
+few that fall on Mars and the earth, are lost. It seems to me now quite
+reasonable that some do their beneficent work on other planets also.”
+
+“Yes,” answered Thorwald, “whenever they are ready to receive them. And
+now I hope to lead you to see that the same intelligence that made the
+sun and gave to its rays such power has been present as a personal force
+in this world, molding it to his use and raising up a people here for
+his service and glory.
+
+“In the perfect plan of that omniscient being the advent of the Savior
+occurred at the most opportune moment. Deep in the heart of one nation,
+firmly grounded in their nature by ages of discipline and suffering, lay
+the belief in one only God. The other nations of the world, surfeited
+with sinful pleasure and worn out with a vain pursuit of happiness, were
+ready to abandon the gods of their imaginations. Some lofty souls among
+them, following intently every prompting of their better nature, had
+developed high characters, while of God’s peculiar people many pure
+hearts waited, with joyful expectancy, the coming of the promised
+Savior.
+
+“He came, the lowly, patient one, and, although the world was made by
+him, it knew him not. The greatest event in the history of the globe
+passed almost without notice; but the seed was planted, and in God’s own
+time the growth began, which has filled our happy world with the perfect
+flower of Christianity.
+
+“The religion which Jesus taught aimed to save the race. It was
+universal, not only as adapted to all nations, but as fitted to
+regenerate and perfect the whole nature of man--body, mind, and soul. It
+would take me too long to tell all the changes it wrought. It found the
+heart hard and unfeeling, and made it tender and loving. It found men
+filled with every evil passion and almost without a desire to be better,
+and it gave them a longing to be free from sin and pure in heart. It
+found the race in darkness and despair, and brought them hope and light
+and comfort. Above all, it attacked the demon of selfishness and gave
+men the promise that in time they should be entirely free from its
+power.
+
+“Slowly the truths of Christianity spread. The missionary spirit was
+born and the gospel was carried to remote lands. It was ever God’s way
+to work through the agency of his creatures, whether these be brute
+forces or intelligent beings. And so through imperfect men the perfect
+rule of life made feeble progress. But as it was the work of the Spirit,
+there was never any danger, even in the darkest ages, that the gospel
+would not triumph over all the sin and degradation of the world, and
+lift men to a higher plane.
+
+“For a long period the truth lay buried beneath ignorance and
+superstition. Then came an awakening, and men, with their minds more
+enlightened and their consciences quickened, began to catch something of
+the true spirit of the gospel. Christianity now became a dominant power.
+Under its benign sway civilization advanced, intelligence spread, and
+Christian nations outstripped all others and extended their power to
+every part of the globe.
+
+“Soon the ameliorating influences of the gospel were felt on every hand.
+Government began to be administered with more regard for the interest of
+the governed, and men came to receive consideration simply because
+they were men. All the aggravated forms of oppression ceased under the
+newborn spirit of human brotherhood, a sentiment brought into the world
+by the founder of Christianity.
+
+“This brings us, my friends, up to that intense age of which I have
+spoken before, and which you say you recognize as that corresponding
+with the time in which you are living on the earth. Let me state briefly
+the condition of some of our affairs of that period.
+
+“The industrial world was in a ferment, as we have seen, and it was only
+in a general and impersonal way that the Christian religion shed its
+influence on the majority of the actors in that drama. Individuals,
+among both employers and workmen, had good impulses and indulged them
+as much as they could, and I am inclined to think this class was larger
+than most of our writers admit. But we read that the greater part were
+moved chiefly by motives of self-interest. Still, Christianity was
+a growing force among them, and they could not entirely escape its
+influence. They were born under its elevating power, and, even if they
+did not acknowledge its sway, they were quite different men from those
+who lived before Jesus began to preach the law of love. This remark will
+apply to all the people of that day who were born under Christian skies,
+and yet acknowledged no personal allegiance to the Savior. They were the
+unconscious heirs of a priceless inheritance.”
+
+“I just want to say, Thorwald,” the doctor interrupted, “that I can
+accept that idea fully now, with respect to the people of the earth,
+though at one time I should not have been willing to do so.”
+
+Thorwald smiled his answer, and without further reply continued:
+
+“Let us look at the business situation. National and local governments
+had begun to extend their powers beyond what had before been considered
+legitimate. With one excuse or another they had taken out of private
+hands many branches of business, and there was a strong tendency toward
+a continuance of the policy. There was no difference in principle
+between carrying the mails and carrying freight and passengers, or
+between giving the people cheap water in their houses and furnishing
+them with cheap coal.
+
+“It was acknowledged that there were certain things which the city or
+state could do better than private enterprise, and the difficulty was
+to decide where to draw the line. While this uncertainty existed in the
+minds of most people, there was a small but aggressive party who were in
+favor of not drawing the line at all, but of putting everything into
+the hands of the government. They would have had the people, in their
+corporate capacity as a nation, raise and distribute the products of the
+soil, do all the manufacturing and dispose of the goods to consumers,
+conduct all the trades and professions, and, in fact, carry on every
+kind of business necessary to the well-being of society.”
+
+Of course, this woke up the doctor, whose practical mind could see
+nothing attractive in such an arrangement as that, and he was moved to
+say:
+
+“I trust, Thorwald, that your ancestors did not adopt that crazy scheme
+as an experimental step in their development. But I beg your pardon for
+using such vigorous language without knowing whether they did or not.”
+
+Thorwald smiled, as he answered:
+
+“You are safe, Doctor. From actual experience we cannot tell what the
+result of such a trial would be, for the vast majority of the writers,
+and the people too, of the period were opposed to the plan, and no doubt
+with good reason.
+
+“But I do not wonder that this idea had a fascination for some
+right-minded people, in the promise it gave of doing away with the evils
+arising from competition, to which I have before referred.”
+
+Thorwald paused here, as if to invite one of us to speak, if he wanted
+to do so. I accepted, by saying:
+
+“I wish you would tell us a little more on that subject. Competition is
+said to be the life of trade with us, an accepted principle of honest
+business. And yet you speak of it as something that should be done away
+with.”
+
+“If you could know,” answered Thorwald, “how repugnant the idea is to
+us of the present day, you would understand how truly you have voiced my
+feelings.”
+
+“I have no doubt,” I said, “that your experience has taught you much on
+the subject that we do not know, but this is the way it looks from our
+standpoint: There is born in us a passion for getting that which belongs
+to others, or that which others are trying to get. In some of us this
+instinct is developed more than in others, and some are unprincipled
+enough to indulge it unjustly; but let me ask you if it is wrong to
+follow the leadings of such a desire if we are strictly honest in all
+our dealings.”
+
+“We might differ over the meaning of the phrase ‘strictly honest,’ but I
+will answer your question by saying it is certainly wrong.”
+
+“But it seems to be a part of our very nature.”
+
+“Do you offer that as a reason for its being right? I never heard you
+claim that human nature was perfect,” said Thorwald.
+
+“Then,” I returned, “in our present state, with which you are now
+pretty well acquainted, is it not possible to carry the principles of
+Christianity into business?”
+
+“To answer that as I should be obliged to do would make me appear to you
+too arbitrary, and so perhaps I had better let you find your own answer
+in the questions which I will ask you. Is not unselfishness one of the
+first principles of Christianity? Now, the very essence of competition
+is a regard for self-interest, with no room for thought about the
+interests of others. In an ideal state of society the rules of life
+given by Jesus are fully obeyed. In such a state, would a transaction
+be right where each person was trying to do what was best for himself,
+although it might be to the damage or loss of another? It might be
+called honest to own slaves, and probably in the history of the earth
+a great many sincere Christian people have owned them, but you have now
+reached that condition, I think, where you can see it is wrong. So your
+way of doing business may be honest, but in our more ideal state we see
+that it is not right. Our remote ancestors, through the various stages
+of our development, did a thousand things with clear consciences which
+we could not do now. I understand your situation perfectly, and am sure
+your race will outgrow its imperfections.”
+
+I thanked Thorwald for his faith in us, and he resumed his narrative.
+
+“In the age of which I am speaking,” he said, “the church was taking a
+prominent place in the world, but had not assumed the leading position
+which it afterward reached. Many nations were still without the light of
+the gospel, and even in nominal Christian lands the actual supporters
+of the church were in the minority. In the midst of much evil and many
+discouragements the church was trying to regenerate society, but it had
+a difficult task, partly on account of the great perversity of the
+human heart, and partly because the church itself was not free from
+the imperfections of the age. Its members represented all shades of
+spirituality, the great majority of them having but a faint appreciation
+of the glorious cause in which they had enlisted. They called themselves
+soldiers of the cross, but were so burdened with the ordinary but more
+pressing duties and occupations of life that they never dreamed of the
+grandeur of the service, nor of the brilliant deeds of which the church
+was soon to show itself capable.
+
+“One chief hindrance to the growth of the church and to the spread of
+its influence was the spirit of division within itself. Theoretically,
+all believers, the world over, were one body, or church, but in point of
+fact there were many churches, and in some particulars they were quite
+sharply opposed to each other. This evil was in full force in that age,
+but there were signs in the air that it was not to remain forever a
+stumbling-block to the faith of the world.”
+
+“We are afflicted in the same way,” said I, “and some of us are hopeful
+enough to look forward to a really united church. But many think it is
+a part of our nature to differ, and are not able to see how all can ever
+come to think alike. They say that if by a miracle all should be brought
+into one church, and then left to their own inclinations, in a short
+time there would be as many sects as there are now.”
+
+“And so there would,” returned Thorwald, “with your present ways.
+Your imperfect nature must change under the softening influence of
+the gospel. The differences that cause such trouble come from each
+individual’s selfish regard for his own opinion. All must learn not only
+to respect but to embrace the opinions of each other when they are
+right opinions. Two streams may run in parallel channels forever if each
+persists in following strictly its own course. If one turns toward the
+other and the other turns away, they will still be kept apart; but let
+each turn toward the other, and how quickly they come together.”
+
+I told Thorwald I could apply his illustration to our condition and we
+would try to profit by it.
+
+“One of the promising features of the religious situation,” he
+continued, “was the good start the church had made in missionary work.
+In the zeal with which this was taken up it was quite a new departure
+for the church, for not long before this time good men believed that if
+God intended to save the heathen he would do it without any help from
+man. But now success had come in the work in sufficient measure to
+greatly encourage the faithful souls engaged in it.
+
+“When I speak of zeal, however, you must understand that this quality
+was confined to a few people. Nearly all were only half-hearted
+Christians at the best, doing something, to be sure, but not at all
+alive to the grand opportunity of bringing the world to the feet of the
+Savior. Only here and there was one found who was ready to give himself
+unselfishly to the work, and the amount of money given to advance the
+cause of Christ, at home and abroad, was small indeed compared to that
+spent in luxurious living and hurtful indulgences.
+
+“At the same time, it was an age of progress. The ordinary span of life
+was long enough to show improvement in many ways, and men, seeing the
+rapid advancement the world was making, took courage and looked forward
+more confidently for the dawn of a brighter day. Religion was beginning
+to be more of an every-day matter, and Christians were coming to a faint
+realization of the real value of the gospel in its adaptation to all
+the needs of men. Care for the body, better ways of living, and right
+conduct toward others were all taught, as well as duty to God, and
+society began to feel the benefit of such sensible teaching.”
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXVI.
+
+VANQUISHED AGAIN BY A VOICE.
+
+
+We all hoped Mona’s affliction would prove temporary, but after a number
+of days had passed, and no improvement appeared, Thorwald had an expert
+anatomist come to the house and make an examination of the organs of her
+throat. Although this was a new way in which to apply his skill, as the
+Martians of that era were all physically perfect, he thought he might be
+able to discover the cause of the trouble. The result of this experiment
+was somewhat reassuring, for our scientist told us there was no defect
+of organ or injury to any part, closing his report with the remark
+that the case presented the greatest mystery of the kind he had ever
+encountered. My companion, the doctor, now expressed his opinion, which
+coincided with my own. This was, that Mona’s trouble was occasioned by
+the shock to her nervous system when she was plunged into the water,
+an element which she so much dreaded. Our good friends, including the
+expert, were utterly unable to understand the meaning of this theory.
+The remark that Zenith made was:
+
+“Why, but for our friend, and others who pry into these things for us,
+we would never know we had any nerves.”
+
+“Happy will our race be,” responded the doctor, “when it arrives at the
+same blissful ignorance.”
+
+“Well,” continued Zenith, “if your opinion is the correct one, what have
+we to hope for in Mona’s case?”
+
+“Unfortunately,” answered the doctor, “we have no experience to teach us
+what to expect. We can only hope with you that she may speedily recover
+her voice, which has seemed to form such a great part of her, and has
+given us all so much delight.”
+
+Perhaps it was imagination, but it seemed to me that Mona’s behavior
+toward me was more affectionate than it had formerly been. She had told
+me before, to be sure, that she had loved me with all her heart, but in
+these latter days she appeared to seek my society more and to show other
+indications that her love was assuming more of the personal element for
+which I had once so assiduously sought. But how was it with myself? This
+question forced itself on me, one day, and I was a little startled to
+find that an answer did not spring up spontaneously. Was it possible
+that my love was becoming cold? I would not admit it. Just as the poor
+girl had lost her chief attraction, should I turn from her and forget
+all my former professions? On the first suspicion that such might
+possibly be my desire, I said it was a wicked thought and I should
+never let it be true. But even if I could not force my heart to remain
+faithful, no one should ever know it but myself.
+
+A little more time elapsed and I discovered that, in spite of my brave
+resolutions, Mona, silent, was filling less and less of my thoughts,
+and that I was living on the precious memory of her lost voice. But this
+discovery did not shake my determination ever to be to Mona herself a
+true and faithful lover.
+
+At this juncture I was sitting alone, one morning, going over in my mind
+the strange vicissitudes of my love affair, when, in a far-distant part
+of the house, I heard a sound which thrilled me. I stopped all
+motion and listened, my heart, however, trembling with the fear of a
+disappointment. The music, for it was sweet music to me, came nearer,
+and now I could not be mistaken. What joy filled my heart! How
+impossible to forget that voice! I sat still and let it come. She
+evidently knew where I was and was coming to find me, pouring forth
+her heart in the way she knew I adored. Where now were my fears that my
+heart was growing cold toward her? Could it be possible that I had ever
+doubted my affection for her since I first heard her sing? Nearer it
+comes, filling my ears now with its familiar melody, a song without
+words but full of meaning for one who hears aright. She is guided true
+by the lamp of love and is now in the next room. I cannot wait, but
+interrupt her song with this cry:
+
+“Come to me, my love, come quickly. I know your voice and the meaning of
+your song, and my heart responds to yours.”
+
+The strain continues, and soon a form appears in the doorway. I spring
+from my seat and start to meet it, but fall back almost immediately in
+confusion.
+
+“Oh, Avis,” I exclaimed with vexation, “I thought you were Mona again. I
+supposed you were on the other side of the world.”
+
+“I was, but I have come back to sing for you. I heard poor Mona had lost
+her voice and I wanted to do what I could to fill her place. But I fear
+you are not pleased with me.”
+
+“My dear friend,” I replied, “I beg your pardon for the abrupt manner
+in which I received you. I thought Mona had suddenly recovered her voice
+and was coming in the fullness of her joy to tell me about it, and you
+can imagine my disappointment when I discovered my mistake. But now I
+assure you I am glad to have your sympathy and delighted to know that
+you are to be near me. Please go on with the song which I so rudely
+interrupted, and let me hear your voice as often as possible. It is
+exceedingly fortunate for me to have you here while Mona is recovering.
+Will you stay till she can sing again, or do you think it is too selfish
+in me to make such a request?”
+
+Instead of answering me, Avis began to sing again, and in a twinkling
+I had forgotten my question and everything else in the enjoyment of the
+moment.
+
+I now wanted little to make me supremely happy. There was Mona herself,
+with her exquisite beauty and friendly manner, and there was Mona’s
+voice in the mouth of one who liked me enough to go half around the
+world to entertain me. And, if the truth must be told, my heart inclined
+more and more toward the voice. This was a startling truth indeed when
+it first fell upon me, and I fully determined that no one else should
+know it. Mona should never discover that I loved her less because she
+could not sing, and Avis should never know that her marvelous song was
+beginning to make the singer dear to me.
+
+Whenever I found myself alone I could think of nothing but this
+perplexing subject. As I dwelt upon my situation, I told myself I must
+be careful, and avoid getting into trouble. Mona was becoming more and
+more tender toward me every day, and now Avis had come, unconsciously
+storming the seat of my affections with Mona’s own voice. I felt that I
+was in some danger of embarrassing myself before the rest of my friends,
+and it behooved me to simplify matters if possible.
+
+First, I must find out to a certainty just how I stood with Mona.
+Notwithstanding the admission which I had been forced to make to myself,
+I felt that it must be right for me to continue to devote myself to
+Mona, even if my heart did not bound toward her as in the days of my
+exuberant love. I should indeed be unworthy of her to give her up now.
+When I considered my former depth of feeling, I fairly despised myself
+for entertaining for a moment the possibility of her becoming less dear
+to me. But, for all that, I knew deep in my heart that the charm which
+had held me to her was gone, and I knew of no way to arrest and bring
+back my wandering affections.
+
+Still, it could not be right for me to let her know I was changing. What
+would she think of me, and what opinion would Thorwald and Zenith have?
+I must own that the latter consideration had a good deal of force with
+me, for I did not want to lower myself and our whole race in their eyes.
+
+So I prepared the form of speech with which to address Mona again on the
+old subject. It seemed strange that she should begin to grow fond of me
+just as soon as my love began to cool, and I determined with all my will
+never to let her know the state of my heart.
+
+Not long after I had made this resolution, I was surprised to have
+the doctor tell me he was sorry to see I was not so partial to Mona’s
+society since she had lost her voice. I do not remember what I said to
+him in reply, but I know his remark set me thinking hard. Perhaps other
+observers had noticed the same thing and were too considerate of my
+feelings to speak of it. Surely, I must have matters put upon a better
+footing at once.
+
+As for Mona, she was never happier in her life, if we could judge from
+her actions. She had now learned to talk so well in her mute language
+that we all found conversation with her comparatively easy. Her
+fascinating manners made her interesting always, and in spite of her
+great loss she was still an important part of the life of the house.
+I argued to myself that my heart must be hard indeed if I could not
+continue to love her. To me her behavior was characterized by such a
+peculiar sweetness that I knew she was ready, on a word from me, to
+recall some of the harsh things she had said and to own a love quite
+different in kind from her regard for others.
+
+The opportunity soon came to speak to her, and I embraced it. “Mona,” I
+said, “I want to make a little speech to you. First, let me ask you if
+I can introduce a subject on which you have more than once stopped my
+mouth. Perhaps you know what I mean.”
+
+“Oh, yes,” she replied, “I remember it very well, and you may talk all
+you please about it now. You must forgive me if I was unkind before and
+used my voice to vex you. But I am surprised to have you bring up this
+topic.”
+
+“Why?”
+
+“Because I thought from your manner that you did not love me as you used
+to.”
+
+By this time the speech that I had prepared was all out of my head,
+and I was wondering if it were possible that I had lost so much of my
+affection for Mona that she had discovered it by a change in my manner.
+In reply to her remark I said:
+
+“But such a thought has not made you unhappy, Mona, if I may judge from
+your behavior. I have never seen you more cheerful and full of life.”
+
+“No,” she responded, “I think it has had the contrary effect. I was
+rather relieved to find you were recovering from your foolishness, and I
+thought we would now be able to live in peace, treating each other in a
+kind and sensible manner. I am disappointed to find that you are still
+clinging to the old idea, but I will not object to your saying all you
+please on the subject, for I have my own reasons now for being gracious
+to you.”
+
+“That’s the very thing I want to ask you about, Mona. I have noticed
+your great kindness of late, and have supposed it came from the fact
+that you were learning to love me in my way; that is, somewhat to the
+exclusion of others. Isn’t it that?”
+
+“I think you will not be pained when I say you have had a wrong
+impression.”
+
+“Why do you think such a discovery will not pain me?”
+
+“Because I am sure you do not care for me now in the same way as before.
+It was my voice that inthralled you. In all this interview you have not
+once said you love me, and you know at one time you could say nothing
+else. But let me tell you why I have shown an extra tenderness toward
+you recently. It was because I feared you would think I blamed you
+for my misfortune. I wanted to let you know I had not the least unkind
+feeling and that, in spite of the loss of my voice, I was as happy and
+contented as ever.”
+
+“Well, after all, you do love me a little, do you not, Mona?”
+
+“Why, of course I do, just as much as ever. And now let us go right
+along and be nice to each other. We will love each other and love
+everybody else just the same, and you must promise not to look disturbed
+any more when I am talking with Foedric; but you have been very good
+about that of late.”
+
+“I will promise,” I answered; “but what will you do if you find I am
+loving another person more than you?”
+
+“Oh, I cannot understand what you mean by loving more and loving less.
+It is a strange idea to me, and I hope I shall never get accustomed to
+it. My way is to love everybody with all my heart, and that’s an end of
+it. Don’t you see in that way I escape all the worry and vexation which
+you seem to have in the matter? As to your loving another, you will
+pardon me if I say it will be a great relief to me for you to do so.
+I have not been used to being the sole recipient of any person’s
+affection, and I shall rejoice to be freed from the responsibility. If
+you have thought me happy heretofore, you will now be astonished at my
+sprightliness. I suppose you refer to Antonia. She is a lovely girl,
+and--”
+
+“Allow me,” I interrupted; but before I could go on with my denial that
+voice again fell on my ears--so distant and low that I held my breath to
+listen. At first Mona did not hear it, but it soon increased in volume;
+and now, as the sweet sounds came pouring upon us, my companion saw how
+I was affected, and said in her sign language:
+
+“Oh, I was mistaken. Antonia is not the one.”
+
+My heart was now all aflame, and, with Mona by my side and gazing into
+my glowing face, I almost forgot her presence in the approach of one
+whose song had such power. Was she old? Music like that is never old.
+Why should not my heart go out to her? She was still beautiful and not
+so old as I had supposed. And then, of course, people in that advanced
+condition, did not wear out in a few years as they did on the earth. As
+for her size, she was rather small for a Martian, and I, living under
+new conditions, would certainly take a start before many days, and no
+doubt become as large as Foedric, almost.
+
+These ingenuous sentiments came to me with the sweet accents of that
+melodious song, and when Avis appeared I had great difficulty to keep
+from making some foolish exhibition of my feelings.
+
+At my next sober moment, that is, when I was by myself, and out of
+hearing of that intoxicating music, it was very easy for me to realize
+my ridiculous situation, but not so easy to tell how I was to escape
+from it. As to my relations with Mona herself, I was greatly relieved by
+our last conversation. I certainly need no longer feel obliged to tie
+my vagrant heart to her. She would not miss it if it never once showed
+itself again, but how could I hope to preserve any sort of character in
+the eyes of my other friends? What sport the doctor would make of me
+if he knew how I felt toward Avis. He little thought that this was the
+daughter of Mars most likely to bring me to my knees.
+
+And the doctor would have good reason for whatever enjoyment he might
+have at my expense, for I felt at first that I did not deserve any
+sympathy. When away from the powerful influence of that voice I was
+myself, and could see everything in its true perspective, but it is
+difficult to describe the change that came over me as soon as those
+entrancing notes fell upon my ear. The music sent great waves of emotion
+through my being, the storm center generally appearing to be the seat of
+my affections. My heart would beat fast, going out toward the singer
+in sympathy and love. The doubts of propriety belonging to my sane
+moments--hesitation, argument, uncertainty--all went in a flash, and I
+was almost ready to throw myself before her and proclaim my love without
+shame or embarrassment. At such times I felt that I could hold my head
+up in view of all the inhabitants of Mars and prove to them that I was
+not fickle, but as steadfast as constancy itself in following always one
+and the same attraction. Was I not as true to the best that was in me,
+when my heart was ravished by the voice of Avis, as I was when I had
+loved Mona so tenderly for the same sweet charm?
+
+As day followed day in this delightful home, it was the society of Avis
+which I continually sought, and I was never quite happy except in her
+presence, or, at least, within hearing distance of her voice. And it was
+not long before the constant association of Avis with the music I
+loved so well began, even when I was not listening to her, to draw my
+affections toward one who, at will, could exert such power over me.
+
+Mona was still herself, the same friendly, joyous creature as ever, but
+the knowledge that I could never gain her undivided affection helped to
+cure my infatuation. And now, with my heart free, why should I not love
+Avis? The mere fact that she was an inhabitant of Mars proved that she
+was far too good for me, but I could see by the example of Foedric and
+Antonia that Avis would never, in consequence of her high development,
+have any scruples against loving one person more than others.
+
+When I had fully persuaded myself that I was perfectly consistent in my
+present course, I became quite anxious to know what others would think
+of me. But I was too much afraid of the doctor’s criticism to confide my
+secret to him. I must try one of the Martians, whose high breeding and
+true courtesy would not permit them to make light of one’s feelings on
+so serious a subject.
+
+So it was to Zenith that I went for sympathy. She had been more than
+kind to me, and it is remarkable how easy and perfectly at home she made
+me feel in her company.
+
+“Zenith,” I began, “I want to consult you on a delicate subject, and
+I will first ask you a rather abrupt question. Will you give us your
+permission to take Avis back to the earth with us?”
+
+A Martian never loses self-possession and is never at a loss what to say
+to the most unexpected proposition.
+
+“Well, that is abrupt,” Zenith quickly responded. “Do you know, Thorwald
+and I were talking only this morning about your apparent fondness for
+the society of Avis. Are you forgetting Mona?”
+
+This was getting into the subject faster than I had intended, and I
+determined to take my time, so I said:
+
+“Zenith, this province must be the New England of Mars, by the way you
+evade my question and ask another.”
+
+“But you wouldn’t expect me to answer such a question offhand. You
+see, it contains several new ideas. First, I didn’t know you thought of
+returning to the earth. Then I am surprised that you should want to
+take anybody with you. And, finally, I am more surprised that you should
+choose Avis rather than Mona. Now that I have explained so fully, may I
+not ask you again if this means that you are forgetting Mona?”
+
+“Mona is not able to sing for me,” I said.
+
+“And do your ideas of what is right allow you to become indifferent to
+her as soon as she loses one of her attractions? Here her misfortune
+would tend to make her only more dear to one who really loved her.”
+
+To which I made haste to answer:
+
+“I am proud to tell you, Zenith, that such sentiments prevail on the
+earth, too, and I have been trying hard to hold them in my own breast.
+But in living with you I am learning to be honest, and it would not be
+right for me to deny that Mona’s chief charm for me is gone from her,
+and is in the possession of another. The voice of Avis has the same
+power over me that Mona’s formerly had, and shall I fight against my
+growing fondness for Avis?”
+
+“Is your race so little developed, then,” asked Zenith, “that your ears
+are the only avenue to your hearts?”
+
+Before I could answer, Mona herself came bounding into the room, and
+Zenith continued:
+
+“There’s the poor child now. How can you be so unkind to her?”
+
+“Who’s unkind to me?” asked Mona in her sign language.
+
+“Zenith thinks I am,” I answered.
+
+“Why, you are mistaken, Zenith; he is just the opposite. We have always
+loved each other, and I think more of him than ever since I lost my
+voice, and he has ceased making serious speeches to me that I can’t
+understand. I wish you could see how he enjoys hearing Avis sing.”
+
+In this way Mona proved to Zenith that she was not heart-broken. I was
+going to explain the matter myself, but was glad to have Mona take it
+out of my hands.
+
+The most difficult task yet remained. I must tell Avis how affairs
+stood; and yet, was it the proper thing for me to do? I wondered how the
+delicate subject of making love was handled in Mars, where the two sexes
+were perfectly equal. Which one was to make the advances? The matter is
+simple enough on the earth, where women are inferior and dependent. Of
+course, they must smother their own feelings and wait to be discovered,
+while the men can make their selection, and if they do not succeed at
+first can simply try again. That is entirely proper, and everybody knows
+just what to do; but here things are probably different. I don’t want to
+make a failure in this case, as I did with Mona, not knowing the customs
+of the moon-dwellers. Perhaps my best way will be to try a little
+coquetry and pretend I do not care for her nor her singing. That may
+draw her on to make some avowal to me.
+
+I had gone so far in my deliberations, when I was interrupted by the
+doctor, who called to ask if I did not want to go out with him. I
+consented reluctantly, as I preferred to go on with my thinking till I
+could come to some decision. But the doctor had a purpose in taking
+me out, and, as soon as a good opportunity presented itself, he said,
+inquiringly:
+
+“You find Avis a pretty good singer?”
+
+“Excellent.”
+
+“And good company?”
+
+“Excellent company. Why?”
+
+“Oh, nothing; only I thought you were neglecting another friend.”
+
+“Why, Mona doesn’t care for me, and Avis does, or, at least, I think she
+does.”
+
+“Do you mean by this,” inquired the doctor, “that you have transferred
+to Avis the personal interest you had in Mona?”
+
+“Have you anything to say in disparagement of Avis?” I asked.
+
+“Certainly not. I have a high respect for her. But there is one other
+plain question I would like to ask you, in view of your rather erratic
+behavior.”
+
+“Well, what is it? I’m dying to know.”
+
+“It is this. What are you going to do with Margaret?”
+
+“Margaret? Oh, yes, I forgot about Margaret. That is something else I
+have got to think over.”
+
+That night, as I was falling asleep, the same sweet, familiar music came
+to me from a distant part of the house. Half-thinking and half-dreaming,
+I let my mind drift where it would. The sensation received through my
+ears was so delicious and so satisfying that I wondered why I could
+not rest in it entirely and not think of the singer; but that was
+impossible. The notes penetrated from my brain down to the region of
+my heart. I thought of Margaret, but Margaret could not sing like that.
+Mona could not, now; no one but Avis. Oh, how I loved her for it! I
+remembered how nice Margaret was, and how much I had once thought of
+her; but as for loving her now, with this music of Mars in my ears, why,
+I simply couldn’t try to do it. At last Margaret, Mona, Avis, all became
+jumbled up in my chaotic mind, and I thought they were one superb woman,
+and I loved her. The conceit was worthy the colossal selfishness of a
+dreamer. The essence of three worlds was mine. The earth, the moon, and
+Mars had all given me their best. And she could sing. The thought was
+soothing. I was asleep.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXVII.
+
+UNTIL THE DAY BREAK.
+
+
+The events related in the foregoing chapter were interesting to us all,
+in one way and another, but the doctor and I felt that the real purpose
+of our visit to Mars, if anything so unpremeditated could be said to
+have a purpose, was to learn all we could of the planet, and especially
+of its people. And as we did not know how soon our visit might be
+brought to a close, we lost no time in urging Thorwald to continue his
+instruction whenever he could find it convenient. Thorwald’s answer to
+this was, that he hoped nothing would occur to hasten our departure, but
+that it was his convenience to heed at any time our wishes, and he would
+resume his talk as soon as we pleased. So it was not long before we were
+seated, and Thorwald began again as follows:
+
+“It is now my privilege to speak to you, my friends, of that part of
+our history which differs from anything you have experienced, and I
+anticipate much pleasure in doing so. I must say again that we have
+found the parallel remarkably close between your career and ours up to
+the time when you left the earth.”
+
+“We have indeed,” remarked the doctor, “and that makes us all the
+more anxious to learn what came to you next and how you escaped the
+threatening storms.”
+
+“There were certainly many clouds upon our horizon at that day,” resumed
+Thorwald. “The people were full of unrest. The worst part wanted to
+replace organized society with anarchy, but this extreme party never
+succeeded in their purpose. The world had progressed too far for that.
+There were too many churches and schools and printing presses. The
+anarchists should have begun their efforts in a ruder age.
+
+“There was more danger from the jealousies and mischievous tendencies
+among the great industrial class, because their number was so large. But
+even here the same influences which saved us from the nihilist had their
+effect. As time went on, men came to think more, and the result of this
+was that both conscience and reason began to govern men’s actions.
+
+“The workmen had looked about them and had seen many corporations
+increasing in wealth and power, and individuals rolling up enormous
+fortunes, and they had felt that they were not getting a fair share of
+the money their labor was earning. But then a little thought enabled
+them to realize that these evidences of great prosperity came from the
+successful few, while a large proportion of all business ventures were
+failures; and in these the employees received more of the profits than
+the owners did. Then the wage-earners had the benefit of much of
+the money accumulated in large fortunes, by having the free use of
+libraries, trade schools, reading rooms, and an increasing number of
+philanthropic institutions, which were equipped and endowed by the rich.
+Such a use of wealth became an ordinary thing, so that it was not a
+matter of wonder and wide notice when a man spent a liberal share of his
+fortune in educational or other humanitarian work.
+
+“All this had a great effect on the mass of the people, gradually
+raising the average of character, and placing before the mind a higher
+incentive for right living. Ignorance had always been to the race a
+twin enemy with sin, and the growth of intelligence meant the general
+elevation of mankind.
+
+“Another chief item in the reformation of men in that age of improvement
+was the general abandonment of the drinking habit. You will understand,
+of course, that the mainspring of all these reforms was the gospel of
+Christ, under which man’s spiritual nature was gradually developing.
+But, at the same time, there was always a secondary cause, and through
+human instrumentality such blessings came to us. What do you suppose
+brought about the overthrow of intemperance?”
+
+“I suspect,” answered the doctor, with a glance at our hostess, “it was
+the growing influence of woman, who, by that time, according to Zenith’s
+account, ought to be taking quite a leading position.”
+
+“Doctor,” said Thorwald, “you take in the situation completely. If
+there was one thing woman had always been sure she could do, it was the
+breaking up of the liquor traffic. In the old days, when she had been
+treated as man’s inferior, she had declared that, if she had the power,
+she would stamp out the manufacture and sale of intoxicating drinks, and
+make it impossible for men to get them at any price. And when power came
+to her I am glad to say she proved that her boast had not been in vain.
+Not that she fulfilled her threat in any such dramatic way as she had
+had in mind, but the end was accomplished just as surely by the force
+of her high character, working itself out in many ways. It was chiefly a
+crusade of education. The children of one generation after another were
+taught the value of right habits and purity of body, and in time the
+change was wrought, a victory for woman more precious to the race than
+any army of mailed warriors had ever won.
+
+“With temperance came better manners, more self-respect, a kinder
+spirit, a more tender care for others, and, along with these things,
+better hearts and better homes.”
+
+As Thorwald had invited us to interrupt him as often as we pleased, I
+took advantage of a pause here by saying:
+
+“I see, Thorwald, you are making the people all too good to leave any
+fear in the mind of a social convulsion, but I would like to ask how
+politics were smoothed out. During that period of industrial war, which
+you described to us, you said the workingmen and ignorant classes
+found they were in the majority and were beginning to use their power
+unjustly. We are threatened in a similar way on the earth at this time,
+and I am anxious to know how the cloud in your sky was dispersed.”
+
+“I will endeavor to make it plain to you,” replied Thorwald, “but you
+must remember I am trying to condense the history of a great many
+years into as few words as possible. It was found that there had been
+a mistake in making the right of suffrage universal without universal
+education, and that the ignorant and vicious were so numerous as to make
+the average unsafe to rely upon in a crisis. It was a difficult matter
+to remedy this state of things. Some attempts were made from time to
+time to confine the privilege of citizenship to the intelligent part of
+the community, but many of the best people thought this was taking the
+wrong course, and that the only safe cure was in educating all classes
+up to a full appreciation of their higher duties. There was a growing
+faith, the world over, in the virtue of the people at large, and
+wherever they had been given full power to govern themselves, or had
+taken it from their former rulers, they were exceedingly jealous of any
+abridgment of this power.
+
+“Here, again, we see the effects of the beneficent influence of woman.
+The more her dominion increased the more was intelligence diffused, and
+although she yielded to the subtle temptation of power and reigned alone
+for a while, yet the world had, on the whole, great cause to be thankful
+for her signal advancement. With education made compulsory, and with
+society brought gradually under the sway of woman’s finer nature and
+more lofty ideals, communities were molded to a higher form of life, and
+saved from the evils which threatened them in their former state.
+
+“Let me tell you briefly how war was banished from our world, that
+monster whose hideous presence would be so utterly out of place here
+now. At the beginning of the age I am describing, the foremost nations
+kept powerful armies and navies, all ready for their deadly work. Wars
+were frequent and bloody. The best of the young men in nearly every land
+were forced to bear arms and fight for their country at the command of
+their rulers, while the conscience of mankind was dulled and stunted by
+the spectacle or constant menace of war.
+
+“The lives of millions of men were actually in the hands of a few
+irresponsible autocrats, who were possessed with exaggerated or false
+notions of national honor. Now came a time when the world stood hushed,
+as it were, on the eve of a mighty conflict. Every nation had increased
+its army and strengthened its defenses to the utmost limit. Every day
+threatened to see the match lighted--a hasty word, a fancied insult, any
+trivial thing, which would bring on the struggle and put the world in
+mourning. And what was it all for? No one could tell. It seemed to be
+nothing but the selfish ambition of the rulers and their innate love
+for supremacy. As for the real actors, those who were to do the actual
+fighting, they had no love for their work. However it may have been in
+the past, the world was older now and better, and war was abhorred with
+all its accompaniments both by the army and by the people at large.
+
+“It was a time of great inventions, looking not only to the saving of
+life but to its destruction. Even while the nations were standing, arms
+in hand, waiting for the signal to begin the conflict, their weapons
+were rendered useless and the strength of their fortresses reduced to
+nothing by the working of one man’s brain. Yes, by a single invention,
+inspired by God for the good of his creation, inhuman war received its
+death-blow and the world obtained a mighty impulse toward its final
+goal.”
+
+The doctor became somewhat excited by these words and asked with
+eagerness:
+
+“What wonderful invention was that?”
+
+“The perfection of the air ship,” Thorwald replied, “by which any
+required weight could be taken into the air, and carried with ease and
+certainty by currents of air or force of gravity.
+
+“You no doubt see what such an invention implies. It means that powerful
+explosives could be dropped from the sky in quantities sufficient to
+annihilate an army or utterly destroy a city. Experiments were made,
+and engineers learned, with surprising rapidity, to cast the bombs with
+great accuracy from any desired height.
+
+“At once every government hastened to build air ships and manufacture
+explosives. There seemed to be no limit in sight to the production of
+either, and soon power enough was stored in this way to extinguish
+half the life of the world, when rightly applied. The entire system of
+warfare was revolutionized; but, while all were preparing for offensive
+operations, there appeared to be no adequate plan of defense under the
+new system. It therefore became apparent that, should the threatening
+cloud burst, it would be difficult to imagine the extent of the
+destruction it would bring. This feeling, which filled all hearts with
+dread, delayed the catastrophe, for no one was ready to assume such an
+immense responsibility. So matters stood for a long time, the fear
+of the dire consequences preventing an outbreak, while the sentiment
+against war was rapidly growing. In nations of the highest civilization,
+where the Christian character of the people was reflected in the
+government, some serious disputes had been settled by arbitration, and
+every time this humane method was adopted a precedent was created which
+made war appear more and more useless and barbarous. The world was now
+becoming so much changed that such a good example was contagious, and
+the result was that the aerial warships and the deadly dynamite did not
+have to be used.
+
+“Among the legends of the time is the improbable one that, when these
+air fleets were at their highest point of efficiency, and the world
+was literally lying at their mercy, one hot-headed young monarch, whose
+selfish pride had stolen away his senses, gave the command to fire
+the train which would ram destruction upon his foes, when, wonder of
+wonders, not a man would obey his order. Angered beyond measure by
+such an unwonted experience, he seized with his own hand the electric
+apparatus arranged to give the fatal spark, but with such violence
+and indiscretion that, instead of sending the current on its appointed
+mission, it turned from its course and destroyed the angry youth
+himself.
+
+“This is undoubtedly a myth, but the rest that I have told you is
+well-authenticated history.
+
+“The abolition of war seems sudden, but it never would have taken place
+as it did had not the people been prepared for it by a radical change in
+their character. For many years the spirit of peace had been quietly at
+work on the heart of mankind, until it came to be realized that warfare
+and strife, whether between individuals or nations, were bound to die
+away under the growing appreciation for the higher law.
+
+“It was one of the supreme days in the history of Mars, when grim war
+passed and became but a memory. The effect was instantaneous. At once
+the people of the different nations were drawn together to their mutual
+advantage. Commerce became world-wide, one language was adopted, and the
+arts of peace flourished as never before. Men began to feel that they
+were one family, national distinctions were made little of, and the
+world drifted gradually toward universal brotherhood.
+
+“I must now draw your attention to the work of the church and show you
+how it was carrying out its great commission. First, to prepare for
+the highest usefulness, it quite early freed itself from the sectarian
+spirit. As the magnitude of its mission became more apparent the points
+of difference between the denominations grew constantly smaller, and, in
+time, all Christians found themselves united on the fundamental truths
+of the gospel, and working together to bring the world to the light.
+With this union fully accomplished, Christianity became more than ever
+the dominant force in the world, and the church the chief center of all
+work looking to the elevation of the race.
+
+“The progress of the world was along the line of the brotherhood of
+man, and that doctrine was the church’s own Christianity taught the true
+socialism, which, however, could not be realized till the heart had lost
+its selfishness, and each one had learned to care for the interests of
+his neighbor. Although such a condition was not in sight at that day,
+there was a mighty awakening which set the current of men’s thoughts and
+desires strongly in the right direction.”
+
+“Do you call yourselves socialists now?” asked the doctor.
+
+“No,” answered Thorwald, “but you can call us so, if you please. It is
+a good word, but our condition is much more perfect, since the coming of
+the kingdom of God in every heart, than any dream of socialism, in the
+olden time, ever contemplated.
+
+“I was speaking of the increasing power of religion. Where the church
+had been weak and dependent on a few half-earnest, timid believers,
+it was now strong and active, and supported by all the self-respecting
+portion of society. Instead of being forced to beg for its meager
+subsistence, it now received in abundance the money that was poured out
+voluntarily. Men did not wait for death, but gave their fortunes away
+during their lives, and enjoyed the blessing which followed. The church
+went down to the people, and in so doing lifted them up to itself.
+It showed them how to make much of life, gave them instruction and
+recreation and social enjoyment, fed the hungry, clothed the naked, and
+visited those in trouble. It strengthened family and neighborhood ties,
+encouraged peace and good-fellowship, and taught men to love each other
+as a preparation for loving God.
+
+“A local church of that day was not a feeble body of men and women, with
+an overworked and underpaid man at their head, who was expected to do
+all the varied work required, except what he could get done by a small
+number of his members, themselves worn out with the labor and business
+of life. No, I will acquaint you with a then modern church. It was an
+institution rich in resources and men, male and female, reaching out
+into the community in every direction, helping the people in every
+imaginable way to live as well as preparing them to die, a beauty and a
+joy to all. It appealed to every side of man’s nature, first supplying
+physical wants, not by indiscriminate largess of money, but by teaching
+sobriety, industry, and thrift as virtues necessary to a rounded
+character. Such teaching was not confined to pulpit precepts, but there
+was no lack of good souls who took delight in going into the homes of
+the people and showing them by example the best ways of living, and how
+to make even the homeliest duties a loving and beautiful service.
+To provide further for the needs of the body, there were gymnasiums,
+bath-houses, swimming schools, playgrounds, riding schools, and the
+like.
+
+“More numerous still were the means offered to meet the intellectual
+and social desires--club-houses, lecture halls, conservatories,
+museums, picture galleries, libraries, reading rooms, observatories,
+kindergartens, manual training and trade schools, besides games and
+sports, spectacular and dramatic exhibitions of a high order, and
+many other things, designed to compete with attractions of a debasing
+character.
+
+“Then, rising high over all, both in outward form and inward grace,
+was the church edifice itself, set apart and strictly preserved for its
+sacred purpose. In the noble lines of its architecture, in the beauty
+of its artistic adornment, and in the character of its service,
+intellectual and musical, it represented the highest culture of the age.
+The structure included under its roof accommodations for the various
+departments of religious work, and its doors were always open, inviting
+every passer-by to enter and seek for spiritual refreshment.
+
+“Imagine, if you can, an institution employing all these agencies, every
+one of them fully equipped and manned, and with streams of money flowing
+in to their support; no barren appeals from the pulpit for funds to pay
+expenses, and no auctioneer’s hammer profaning the sacred aisles.
+
+“This was the church of the period. Can you wonder that God’s rich
+blessing was on such work and that his kingdom made rapid progress?
+There was an ever-increasing number of God’s ministers, men and women,
+imbued with Christ’s own spirit, working in all these various activities
+to elevate and save their kind.
+
+“In the life of the people there was nothing in all the world that so
+surrounded them as the church. They could not escape from its influence.
+It touched them from one side or from another, calling upon them, by
+every manner of appeal, to lead less sordid lives, and seek the highest
+good. Whereas in the olden time they seemed to be set in the midst of
+evil influences, which imperceptibly molded their characters and too
+often wrecked their lives, their condition was so changed that their
+environment was now a help and not a hindrance, and so the gospel found
+easy entrance to their hearts and lives.
+
+“This much the church had done by giving its money and itself, with
+new-born zeal, to the work of the Master. And from this time you may be
+sure its victories were rapid and notable.
+
+“While this great change in society had been going on among nominal
+Christian people, hand in hand had gone the work of the gospel in
+heathen lands. The faster the money was poured out for the church
+at home, the more plentifully it was offered for the foreign field.
+Sometimes it was feared there would be more money than men and women for
+the work. Then the laborers would come forward in such numbers that the
+money would be exhausted, which, however, gave no concern, for it was
+sure to come again as soon as needed. Where one missionary, in the
+former days, had had the courage to take up the work, now thousands
+sprang forward and with eager hearts went into the field.
+
+“Going to the heathen in the same spirit of brotherly love and
+helpfulness which had been so successful at home, the church was almost
+overwhelmed with the happy results. One people after another threw away
+their idols, and became followers of the gentle Savior, whose disciples
+showed so much of his spirit. In every part of the world the gospel
+was gaining fast over superstition and ignorance. In Christian lands no
+other news was so sought after by all as the reports of the progress of
+the cross, at home and abroad. Enthusiasm is a small word with which to
+describe the burst of genuine interest in this great cause. Nor was it
+a transient show of feeling, but so steady and constant that there was
+never any doubt of its enduring till the final victory was won.
+
+“Where now were the dangers that threatened society? What had become
+of the labor troubles, the schemes of the anarchists, the menace of the
+unemployed, the risk of a plutocracy, and all the evils that darkened
+the sky of that former day? How far away, how trivial these things
+seemed, now that they had passed, and men were learning to dwell
+together in peace.”
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXVIII.
+
+AND THE SHADOWS FLEE AWAY.
+
+
+Thorwald paused again, and the doctor felt moved to say:
+
+“Your sketch has been richly enjoyed, Thorwald, and if it can be taken
+as prophetic, in any sense, of what is to come to pass on the earth, we
+are to see some happy days indeed. But a question has arisen in my mind
+which I would like to ask you. When you broke off your former narrative,
+things were in a pretty serious state among your ancestors. You have now
+told us in a general way that there was a great change for the better,
+and that every thing and every body improved until the time came when it
+was easier to be good than not. I accept the fact, but do not understand
+the practical operation of the causes that led to such a result. For
+instance, I would like to know how that industrial strife came to an
+end. The parties to it seemed to be full of bitter enmity and far enough
+from ever loving one another. You have perhaps answered my question
+already, and my stupidity has prevented me from grasping your meaning.”
+
+“Let me first ask you a question,” said Thorwald. “I have inferred,
+from some words you have let fall from time to time, that your mind has
+changed somewhat. Will you admit that whatever advance this world has
+made has come through the teachings of Christ?”
+
+“It would be rather presumptuous in me,” answered the doctor, “to think
+of denying anything to which you hold so firmly. More than that, in
+the light of what I have seen and heard here, my own views, so rashly
+expressed in the first days of our acquaintance, seem to me out of
+place. They were formed without sufficient study of the subject, and I
+am free to tell you that I now believe the same influence to which you
+attribute your growth is the strength and growth of our race also.”
+
+“Your words give me great pleasure,” Thorwald resumed, “for now I know
+I have your full sympathy. The troubles to which you refer, and all the
+clouds of that period, were dispersed by the growth of the spirit of
+love in the world. Does that seem a vague and insufficient answer to
+your question? Does the cause appear inadequate to the effect? Perhaps
+I should have warned you not to expect any new or startling method
+of removing these evils. The world was not in need of any nostrum for
+curing sin, nor of any new scheme of the visionary for teaching men how
+to find peace and happiness.
+
+“No, the old gospel was sufficient. The power was already at work which
+was to regenerate the world and, in time, to do away with all kinds of
+oppression and injustice. The gospel did not spend its force so much
+in attacking special forms of evil. It struck at the foundation of our
+sinful nature, and, by long and patient effort, won a firm place in our
+hearts. Then the whole structure of evil passions and low desires fell,
+and our race began to build, on this new and safe foundation, more
+beautiful and enduring mansions.
+
+“If we were to be the children of God, it was necessary for us to be
+like him, to deny ourselves, and to love our enemies. So, with that
+spirit growing in our hearts, what place was there for greed and anger
+and strife between man and man?
+
+“One secret of the new power put forth by the church is to be found in
+the union of all good men and women in its support. Before that period
+many people of character had stood aloof, giving little thought to
+religion for themselves, and less still to its influence on the world
+at large. Some of them were out-and-out unbelievers, but, for the most
+part, they were careless livers, too much engrossed in the affairs of
+this world to feel any anxiety about the world to come.
+
+“But now, in the march of events, the time came when the lines must be
+sharply drawn between the good and evil forces. Iniquity presented
+such a bold front, and all the foes of order and decency became so
+threatening, that the moral forces of society had to combine for mutual
+protection. The church, being the conservator of morals as of religion,
+was the only rallying point for these forces, and felt at once the
+impulse of new life. Thus, society, in the hour of its extremity, found
+the true source of its salvation, and from that day its progress toward
+a higher state began, a progress which has never yet been stayed.
+
+“Let me urge you, Doctor, to learn a lesson from our history. You
+acknowledge that, if the earth is to be saved from the evils which
+threaten its peace, it must be through the gospel. If, therefore, you
+and others like you wish to help speed the earth in its upward path,
+you must obey and work for that gospel. To do good to your fellowmen
+and assist in the regeneration of the world is only one motive for doing
+this, but it will, I am sure, lead you to that other motive, a desire to
+please your God. Every consideration calls you to leave your doubts and
+negations, your neglect and indifference, and join with all the strength
+of your character in a united effort to free the earth from some of its
+sin. When this is done, when all the good forces cease their strife and
+their cold neutrality and come together under the banner of love, you
+will see a mighty change. Then will the earth grow bright with hope and
+begin to realize something of the nature of its high destiny.
+
+“Let me continue to describe the effect of such warm-hearted, combined
+labor among us, and the result on our planet of the great spiritual
+awakening to which I have referred.
+
+“As men took note of the vast improvement going on around them, for
+every department of life felt the quickening of the new zeal, they
+became more and more eager in the overthrow of evil. And they had
+learned thoroughly the great truth that the way to regenerate the
+world was for everyone to build up his own character in truth and
+righteousness. Noble lives, devoted to lofty aims, were the natural
+result of the change, and our race, emerging from such a state of
+imperfection as I have tried to outline, began to realize with joy that
+they were living in a new world.
+
+“I wish I could describe to you in fitting words the wonderful nature of
+this advancement. All the pride and selfishness, so common to all hearts
+in our degenerate days, were now driven out and replaced by the spirit
+of self-denial. Love, the living principle in the gospel, had conquered
+all its foes and was now enthroned in every heart.
+
+“Do not suppose all this came about in one generation. It is only by
+comparing one period with another that we are able to see such marked
+progress. Our development toward the higher life has always been step by
+step, and sometimes so slow that the people actually living, and in whom
+the change was taking place, were not aware of any growth.
+
+“But there have been special periods in our history when, after long
+years of preparation, the race has come to a sudden appreciation of a
+higher and better condition. The most glorious epoch of this kind came
+at the close of the period I have just been describing.
+
+“Perhaps you have seen some rare plant, having come to its maturity
+through a process so slow as to bring discouragement, often, to
+those who are cultivating it, now suddenly burst into bloom with such
+magnificence that the disappointments of the past are all forgotten in
+the enjoyment of its beauty.
+
+“So broke that blessed day upon Mars. None so fair had ever dawned
+before, and none less fair have we ever seen since.
+
+“While this spiritual awakening was taking place, there had been rapid
+progress, also, in our material development. The evils that formerly
+vexed our bodies having disappeared, we were now free from sin and
+sorrow alike, and so were prepared to enter upon duties relating to our
+higher condition.
+
+“All nature rejoiced with us, for the world itself was filled with the
+joy and beauty which came from the knowledge of the Lord. Peace reigned
+in the animal creation, and such gladness abounded everywhere that it is
+hardly an exaggeration to say that the mountains and hills broke forth
+into singing, and all the trees of the field clapped their hands.”
+
+As Thorwald uttered these closing words, so beautiful and familiar, I
+was so impressed with their appropriateness to his narrative that I
+did not stop to wonder where he had obtained them, but inquired with
+eagerness:
+
+“And is it true, Thorwald, that instead of the thorn there came up the
+fir-tree, and instead of the brier there came up the myrtle-tree?”
+
+“That describes the situation admirably,” he answered, “and it is
+literally true.”
+
+“Why should that be so?” I asked.
+
+“Because, when sin was banished from our world, it dragged in its train
+every evil thing and left all bright and joyous behind it. Even the
+unconscious soil was so improved in character that, whereas in the
+former time it had brought forth by nature the thorn and brier and
+noxious weed, there now sprang up spontaneously all manner of healthful
+plants and fruits.”
+
+“But,” said I, “we do not attribute moral excellence to the ground that
+produces our food. How could the absence of sin make it any better?”
+
+“Like everything else,” replied Thorwald, “it reflected the spiritual
+condition of our race. By long and patient cultivation, by a constant
+use of good seed, and by a persistent fight against every tendency to
+evil growth, men had so changed the nature of the soil that it yielded
+only that which was good. Even if left without care the ground did not
+deteriorate, but the products took on the character of the times and
+gradually improved. To such a degree had our once sinful world been
+changed.
+
+“The disagreeable features in nature’s laboratory were lost to every
+sense, while everything that was beautiful in sight or sound, or that
+was pleasant to the taste, now possessed an added charm. The birds
+sang in more joyous notes, the flowers glowed in brighter hue, and all
+created things burst forth in a song of praise to their Maker.”
+
+“Is it possible,” I asked, “that the growth of love in the heart will
+so transform a world and make even inanimate things more beautiful? The
+earth is full of selfishness and I fear will be so for a long time, and
+yet we think we have a few things that are perfect. I cannot conceive,
+for instance, how anything could ever grow, sin or no sin, that would
+surpass in beauty one of our finest roses.”
+
+To which Thorwald replied:
+
+“Is this not of value to you, to learn that the roses of the future are
+entirely beyond your conception? Let me assure you that, with each new
+advance in your progress toward a higher condition, there will unfold
+within you new powers of appreciation for the increasing beauties in
+nature, and new desires for spiritual perfections which are now too high
+for your mind to grasp. Is it not a pleasure to know that there are many
+things in reserve for the earth of whose character and perfections you
+cannot conceive?”
+
+“It surely is,” I replied, “and we shall never cease to thank you for
+this hour’s talk. But now let me ask if you were not really in heaven
+when you reached such a happy state. With both man and nature redeemed
+from sin, with the tears wiped away from all eyes, with all griefs
+assuaged and sickness and sorrow forgotten, and with love supreme in the
+heart, what more was needed to make a heaven? Many of our generation on
+the earth believe that the earth itself will be our heaven, when sin has
+been driven out and peace and joy abound.”
+
+“Oh, no, not heaven,” answered Thorwald. “The earth will be better in a
+thousand years than it is now, much better in ten thousand years, but it
+will never be heaven.”
+
+“But why?” I persisted. “We cannot understand how there could be any
+more blessed place than the earth would be if it should ever reach the
+condition which you have pictured to us as existing here.”
+
+“You have just stated the trouble,” Thorwald replied.
+
+“You cannot understand. With your present capacities you think a state
+such as I have described would be perfection; but you--I mean, of
+course, your race--will come in time to see imperfections even in such
+a life, and will, with increasing spiritual vision, see still higher
+things to strive for. Let me urge you to keep your hearts attuned to the
+heavenly music and your minds open to divine influences.”
+
+Here Thorwald was about to leave us, as we remained in quiet thought
+after his solemn and impressive words. But I kept him a moment to ask
+if they had solved all the mysteries of God’s moral government. “By no
+means,” he replied. “There are still many things unexplained in God’s
+dealings with us, and we think this is well. Life would lose much of its
+value if the time should come when there would be nothing to learn.
+We know much of God’s character, but are not acquainted with its full
+depths, and whenever we see or experience anything mysterious in his
+providences we are content to wait for a fuller revelation of truth in
+the future.
+
+“We shall see the time when all our questions will be answered--that is,
+in the world to come--and, in the mean time, we try to strengthen our
+high and beautiful conception of God’s character by referring everything
+we do not understand to his loving and gracious qualities, which we know
+so well.”
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXIX.
+
+A SUDDEN RETURN TO THE EARTH.
+
+
+That night, when the doctor and I were alone, I said to him:
+
+“Well, doctor, what do you think of it all?”
+
+“It would take me a long time,” he replied, “to tell what I think. I
+confess I am beginning to imbibe a little of the spirit of this place.
+I have spent my life in the pursuit of material facts, which we supposed
+were the only substantial and valuable things in life Now I find myself
+thinking lightly of such matters, with my mind held in the grasp of far
+different thoughts. I realize now something of the substance and reality
+of unseen things, and believe that man has a spiritual side to
+his nature, which must be developed if he is to fulfill the high
+expectations of our friends in this world. Taught by Thorwald’s words
+and by all I have seen here, I have come to that point where I can say
+I am losing my doubts and acquiring a love for things which formerly
+did not exist for me. If we ever return to the earth we shall find
+occupation enough for the rest of our lives in teaching the lessons we
+have learned here.”
+
+“Yes,” I said, “if we ever return. But doesn’t that seem impossible?”
+
+“It certainly is difficult to imagine how it can be accomplished, but
+going home ought not to be any more impossible than our coming here.
+Perhaps we had better bestir ourselves, for Mars is now getting farther
+away from the earth every day. Thorwald says the two planets were nearer
+each other at the recent opposition than ever before since their records
+began, and this is probably what drew our moon here, so fortunately for
+us. For the return trip we might get these generous people to loan us
+Demios or Phobos.”
+
+“What are they?”
+
+“Why, don’t you know? They are the little satellites of Mars, named
+after the favorite horses of the war god.”
+
+“But seriously now,” I asked, “how are we to get home?”
+
+“Well, seriously, I don’t know,” the doctor answered. “Some accident may
+happen to send us away from here in a hurry.”
+
+“You know this is not the right world for accidents,” I said.
+
+“I am not able to see,” he replied, “how they can be sure that they are
+entirely free from accidents. They have been so long without them that
+it seems to me it would not be strange if a big one should come almost
+any day. One must be due, as we say.”
+
+In the morning Thorwald met us with a pleasant greeting, as usual, and
+then said:
+
+“I have been surprised that you have not shown more curiosity on one
+subject of vast importance to us. You have not once asked to see our
+comet.”
+
+“We have talked of it by ourselves,” said the doctor, “but we have been
+too much engrossed in studying your history and customs to think much of
+a topic so far above our comprehension as the comet. Your civilization
+is much higher than we can appreciate, and I am sure we should make
+small progress in attempting to investigate a development that is so
+much beyond yours.”
+
+“Your excuse,” returned Thorwald, “is as complimentary as it is
+ingenious. But should you not like to see an object which possesses so
+much interest for us?”
+
+“Certainly,” the doctor made haste to reply; “and just as soon as you
+choose to take us. You told us it was at the door of a large city. Is it
+far from here?”
+
+“Yes,” Thorwald answered, “a long way in miles, but not far in minutes
+if we go by the tubular route. But if it is agreeable to you, suppose we
+take the air line and make a leisurely excursion of it.”
+
+We both assured him that we were delighted with the prospect, and I
+suggested that Zenith and the children should accompany us.
+
+“Yes,” said Thorwald, “and in anticipation of your consent to go on the
+expedition, I invited some other friends of yours last night to share
+the pleasure with us. And here they are now,” he continued, rising and
+stepping to the door.
+
+The doctor and I hurried forward, and were heartily greeted by Proctor,
+the astronomer, and Foedric of the red voice. The latter was accompanied
+by a comely-looking ape, which had been trained to act as his body
+servant. The animal was intelligent, and quick to understand every word
+addressed to him, but quiet and respectful in demeanor, and, to all
+appearance, as well fitted to fill the station he occupied as the
+servants we had been accustomed to seeing on the earth.
+
+Zenith explained to us that in many households the ape and other
+creatures were employed for light services, and were exceedingly useful.
+But as for their own house, she said the work that could not be done by
+mechanical means she preferred to do herself, assisted by her children.
+It was much better that every child should have some stated work to do.
+
+It was not long before we were all on our way to the aerial station,
+where we selected a commodious air ship, managed by one of Foedric’s
+friends.
+
+When we were seated comfortably and were enjoying once more the
+exquisite sensation of sailing so easily through that balmy air,
+Thorwald said to the doctor and me:
+
+“We all anticipate a great deal of pleasure in showing you our big
+natural curiosity and what it contains. We want to see your surprise
+when you look upon its vast proportions, and your growing curiosity as
+you try to make out some of its mysteries. Things which baffle our skill
+may be plain to you, and perhaps you will even be able to do something
+with that puzzling language.”
+
+“Yes,” said the doctor, “if it is beyond your skill we shall no doubt be
+able to read it at sight.”
+
+“Well, at any rate,” continued Thorwald, “we shall enjoy the novel
+experience of exhibiting the marvel of our whole world to those who
+were, until so recently, entirely ignorant of its existence.”
+
+“I hope,” I said, “that our behavior will not be such as to disappoint
+you, when we are brought face to face with the object for which you have
+so deep a sentiment.
+
+“But, Thorwald, the doctor and I have been talking about going home. Not
+that we are tiring of your society, but we are filled with a desire to
+tell the people of the earth what we have found on Mars and try to teach
+them some of the good lessons you have given us. The doctor, who has a
+monopoly of the scientific culture in our party, can see no prospect of
+our getting away from your planet. With your more advanced science, can
+you suggest any way by which we can take a dignified leave of you?”
+
+“We should regret exceedingly,” replied Thorwald, “to lose you just as
+we are becoming well acquainted, but I have no criticism to make on the
+excuse you offer for wanting to revisit your home. I must say, however,
+that you present to us too hard a problem to solve. With all our
+attainments in astronomy and in the navigation of the air, you went one
+point beyond us when you took passage from the earth to Mars, for we
+have no means by which to express passengers from one planet to another.
+
+“We consider the circumstances of your leaving the earth and your
+journey hither the most remarkable thing of the kind ever heard of, and
+we have nothing in our experience on which we can begin to build any
+scheme for sending you off on so long a flight through space. If you
+will only be content to stay here till we have progressed further with
+our investigations of the high civilization brought to light in our
+comet, perhaps we can help you. The remarkable people whose exalted
+condition is there represented may have had powers in this direction
+of which we cannot conceive. The subject will add even more zest to our
+researches.
+
+“Why do you desire to leave us so soon? You have seen but few of our
+notable improvements, and learned comparatively little of the practical
+workings of our high civilization. And then I have been hoping the
+doctor would come fully into our belief before he went away.”
+
+“If you could hear what he has told me,” I said, “you would see that
+he is already fit to be sent as a foreign missionary from this blessed
+world to the struggling earth.”
+
+“Good!” cried Thorwald. “I am delighted to hear it. If anything could
+reconcile us to the loss of your society, it is the knowledge that you
+will both he glad messengers of hope to your promising race. I rejoice
+that I have had a share in the work of preparing you for your mission.
+
+“And now, suppose we all humor your conceit and give you our parting
+words, as if the ship were at hand which was to sail the mighty void,
+and bear you safely to your distant home.
+
+“Come, wife, friends, the day is young and the air delightful. There is
+nothing to hasten us on our way. Let us ride leisurely along and take a
+little time to speed these earth-dwellers on their prospective journey
+with a few words of cheer.
+
+“Foedric, what advice have you to offer them before they take their
+leave of us?”
+
+Foedric was modest, as we had learned before, but he entered into
+Thorwald’s plan with evident pleasure, and said, addressing the doctor
+and me:
+
+“My friends from foreign skies, you do not need advice from me after you
+have been so long with Thorwald and Zenith, but I will send a message to
+your unfortunate fellow beings who have never had the pleasure of their
+acquaintance. When you have related your experiences and told them the
+condition in which you have found us, ask them to call us no longer
+Mars, but Pax, the world of peace. Our planet is red, but not with
+war. Its red is rather the blush of the dawn that ushers in the day of
+universal love. My word to men is to expect the advent of that day, and,
+expecting, to prepare for it. Useless, cruel, inhuman war must cease,
+with all strife and hatred and envy and bitter feeling; and then shall
+you begin to see the full measure of beauty in the song of the angels of
+which you have told us, and ‘Peace on earth’ will be a blessed fact and
+not a prophecy. Thorwald, I have finished.”
+
+“You have spoken well, Foedric,” said Thorwald. “And now, what wise
+counsel will you give, Proctor?”
+
+“From what I have learned in regard to the people of the earth,” replied
+Proctor, “it seems to me they will be obliged to have a great deal of
+war there yet--war against a world of evils, which must be driven out
+with a strong hand before they can have peace. When each individual has
+subdued his own spirit, then there will be no more war, and no other
+enemies to conquer.”
+
+“Study the majesty and power of God as exhibited nightly in the starry
+sky, and learn to revere a being who holds in his hands a million
+worlds, and not only guides their movements but directs with a heart of
+love the minutest affairs of all their inhabitants. Look over the broad
+field of creation, and think of the earth, grand and beautiful as it
+is, as only one among the vast number of peopled orbs, all swinging in
+unison, parts of one plan, every one in its day sending forth a song of
+praise to its maker. So shall your hearts expand and burst the narrow
+bounds of selfish desire and trivial occupation, and you will begin to
+grow into the full stature of the sons of God.”
+
+Proctor spoke with such feeling that the doctor and I now began to think
+that these people must be in earnest and were really preparing to send
+us home in some way, but the latter idea was, as will speedily be seen,
+an unjust suspicion.
+
+“Zenith,” said Thorwald, “will you take your turn, after Proctor’s
+inspiring words?”
+
+“If we were in truth making our farewells to these friends,” replied
+Zenith, “I should feel more sadness than I am conscious of now.
+
+“My message, O men, shall be a plea for purity. If you would seek to
+make your world the better for your visit here, teach men everywhere to
+be pure, a hard lesson to learn, but one that will bring a rich reward.
+First make the fountain sweet. Be pure in heart, and then your lives,
+and even your thoughts, will be pure. When you can fully obey the
+command, ‘Think no evil,’ you will need no other commandment to keep
+your lives unspotted. Such a requirement no doubt seems too difficult
+for you now, but the earth must come to its maturity by following the
+same high ideal which has ever been set before us. There is one law
+for all worlds, an infinitely pure and holy God commands us all to be
+perfect even as he is perfect, although to that perfection nor earth nor
+Mars, nor, perhaps, any other world, has yet attained.”
+
+“But, Thorwald, I fear you will not have time to give your farewell
+words before our friends depart.”
+
+“I shall not require much time,” replied Thorwald, “but I should not
+like to lose the opportunity of adding something to what has already
+been said. I think we have been wise in having this talk, for those who
+could take advantage of such a novel way of coming to us may discover
+some means of going home again before we suspect it.”
+
+Then, turning to us, Thorwald continued:
+
+“Go back to the earth, my brothers, and tell men to despair not in their
+conflict with evil; for God reigns, therefore the good will triumph.
+Tell them you found a race of happy beings here, not perfect, but aiming
+toward perfection, having escaped many of the perils that belong to an
+earlier stage of existence. The earth, too, will one day be old. Will it
+be happy then? Your generation can help to make it so. With our history
+to guide us, and with the knowledge you have given us of the earth’s
+present condition, we have high hopes of your race, and I venture the
+prediction that your world will see, in the near future, such an advance
+as you have never dreamed of. The era of a united effort to overthrow
+the evil forces is approaching, when all will press with eager, sincere
+hearts into the work, when money will be poured out like water, when men
+will begin to lose their selfishness and take each other by the hand as
+brothers, and when the dark places of the earth will grow bright with
+the light of the gospel.
+
+“I do not wonder you want to get back there. I hope I should have the
+same desire if I were in your place. What a time in which to live, with
+so much good work to do, and such encouragement and sure reward!”
+
+Thorwald’s enthusiasm made him eloquent, and we all regarded him
+intently as he spoke. How well I remember that group of persons:
+Proctor, the devout astronomer; the stalwart and earnest Foedric;
+Zenith, the queen of all womanly graces; and Thorwald himself, our
+friend and brother, the rich fruit of an advanced development.
+
+My companion and I were deeply impressed with the words we had heard,
+and could hardly realize that these friends were not aware that our life
+in Mars was nearly over, their farewells were so genuine.
+
+But, hark! Thorwald is still speaking:
+
+“Go back to the earth, I say, and--” a crash, a sensation of falling, a
+dull pain in my head, a new voice at my ear, saying,
+
+“Why, Walter, are you hurt?”
+
+During the effort to recover full consciousness I said:
+
+“There, Doctor, the accident you expected has certainly come.”
+
+And then I opened my eyes and discovered that I was sitting in an
+undignified position on the deck of a vessel of some kind.
+
+Again the voice, now more familiar and identified with a lovely face,
+said:
+
+“You must have had that broken chair; I knew it would let you down some
+time. Don’t you know me, Walter?”
+
+“Why, yes, it’s you, Margaret, isn’t it? But where’s the doctor?”
+
+“Oh, how are you hurt?” cried Margaret in alarm. “Tell me, and I will
+run for the doctor at once.”
+
+This conversation had all passed in a moment, and by the time it was
+finished I had extricated myself from the broken chair with Margaret’s
+assistance, and was now wide awake. I had never expected to leave Mars
+without the doctor; but now he was gone with all the rest, and I was
+well content to find myself back by Margaret’s side, and to hear her
+pleasant words, the words of a plain inhabitant of the earth, not too
+good to love me a little selfishly. A wave of intense happiness in the
+possession of such a love passed over me. It was a feeling I had never
+before experienced in my waking moments and it must have illumined my
+face, for Margaret continued:
+
+“I don’t believe you are hurt at all. You look too happy to be in pain.
+What have you been dreaming about, that makes your face shine so? How
+thankful I am for this bright moonlight. I never saw you have so much
+expression before.”
+
+“Margaret,” I replied, as soon as she would let me speak, “don’t you
+remember you sent me on a quest for my heart? Well, I have found it and
+brought it back to you.”
+
+“How lovely to find it so soon,” she exclaimed; “and I know by your
+looks it’s a large one and full of love. But tell me about it. How did
+it happen?”
+
+“Why, I fell in love with a voice.”
+
+“With a voice? Whose voice?”
+
+“Well, it didn’t seem to matter much. First it belonged to Mona and then
+to Avis, and part of the time to both of them.”
+
+“You make me jealous,” said Margaret.
+
+We were now standing, hand in hand, leaning on the rail of the vessel,
+in the full enjoyment of our new-found happiness.
+
+“You will not be jealous,” I answered, “when you know all about it. I
+have enough to tell you, Margaret, to occupy a week, I should think.
+I have seen and heard a great deal, and seemed to be living amid other
+scenes for many months, and yet I notice the moon is but two or three
+hours higher than when you left me there in the chair to go and find
+your book. I shall take great pleasure in relating to you the entire
+experience when we have time. Perhaps I will write it out for you. I
+have been stirred as I never expected to be, but I assure you I have
+brought back my whole heart to you. Only,” I added, as a sudden flash of
+memory startled me with its vividness, “I should like to hear that voice
+once more.”
+
+“Ah,” said my companion, “why do you think of that so much? I fear you
+are not quite heart whole. What was there peculiar about the voice?”
+
+“Margaret, it was the most exquisite music anyone ever dreamed of. I
+cannot describe my emotions or the intensity of my enjoyment whenever I
+heard it. First the voice belonged to a beautiful girl whom I thought we
+met on the moon, and who talked only in the language of the birds. Then
+she went to Mars with us, and there I heard the same sweet voice also
+from one of the noble women of that happy planet.
+
+“Oh, what queer things we do in our sleep, and how supremely selfish
+a dreamer is. I once had a theory that we are all responsible for the
+character of our dreams, but I hope, my dear, that you will not call me
+to too strict an account in this case, I should blush to tell you how I
+loved each singer, and yet I know now it was only the voice that charmed
+me. I shall seek my pillow with delight to-night, to try and catch in my
+sleep some faint echo of that song, for I never expect to hear its like
+in my waking hours. You are laughing at me, and I don’t wonder. Let me
+see. I dreamed that I dreamed that you and Mona and Avis were all one
+grand, sweet singer. I wonder what would have happened if I had staid
+there long enough to tell Avis something that was on my mind. Perhaps I
+never should have come away.
+
+“But forgive me, dear Margaret, for my enthusiasm for simply a memory,
+and put the blame on my sensitive ears. And now, tell me what you have
+been doing during these long hours. Did you find the professor and get
+your book?”
+
+“Yes, but I had to stay a few minutes and hear him talk. I hurried back,
+however, to be with you, and for my reward found you fast asleep.”
+
+“I was only dozing. But what did you do then?”
+
+“Oh, I sat quiet for a while, and then took up the amusement I usually
+follow when I find myself alone.”
+
+“What is that? Pray tell.”
+
+“Singing, of course.”
+
+“Singing?”
+
+“Why, yes, didn’t you know I could sing?”
+
+“Do you mean to say you were singing all those two or three hours?”
+
+“Not all the time, but at intervals. I sang so loud sometimes that I
+thought I should wake you.”
+
+“Then,” I exclaimed with feeling, “it was you that I heard. You know my
+ears are never fully asleep. Margaret, it was your voice that I have
+been falling in love with.”
+
+At this Margaret laughed heartily, as she answered:
+
+“You have been a good while finding it out. I knew it all the time.
+That’s what I sang for, and I had my pay as I went on, for every time
+I began, whether soft or loud, I could see your face light up with the
+light of your soul, and then I knew my voice was finding its way to some
+corner of your brain.”
+
+“How stupid of me,” I said, “not to wake up the very first time I heard
+you; but I thought it was Mona. Oh, how it did thrill me! And to think
+I am to hear it again when I am really awake. Come, why do we waste all
+this time in talking when I have that great happiness still unfulfilled?
+May I not hear you sing now?”
+
+“Oh, you might be disappointed, after all. My idea is that you enjoyed
+my singing because all your critical faculties were dulled in sleep, and
+you heard only through your heart, as it were. Don’t you think it would
+be better to live awhile on the pleasant memory you have brought back
+with you?”
+
+“Not at all. I can retain the memory, and have the present happiness
+besides.”
+
+“But you said you never expected to hear such music in your waking
+hours.”
+
+“Do not be so cruel, Margaret, as to recall those words against me,
+although they were really a tribute to you, for it was your own voice
+that forced me to utter them. But what can I do to induce you to sing?”
+
+“Go to sleep,” she replied. “I will sing for you all you please when you
+are asleep, and you can hear me and think of Mona at the same time. That
+will be a double pleasure.”
+
+“My dear, I prefer to think of you. Mona was a beautiful girl, but she
+could never love me as you do.”
+
+“Why so? Wasn’t her heart large enough?”
+
+“Yes, it was too large--so large that she loved everybody, and one no
+more than another; while you, darling, have chosen me, out of all the
+people in the world, as the object of your highest and deepest love, and
+yet in doing that have only increased your power of loving others. Now
+what will you do to pay me for that speech?”
+
+“Well, I’ll relent. But you must at least pretend to be asleep. Come
+back and find another chair that you can rest in easily, and I will sit
+beside you. There, that will do. Now turn your head away from me, close
+your eyes, and promise me you won’t open them till I tell you to do so.
+I intend to have the calm judgment of your ears uninfluenced by your
+sight or any other sense. If you can manage to fall asleep while I am
+singing, so much the better.”
+
+“Margaret,” I replied, “I shall try hard to keep my eyes closed, but
+there isn’t a drug in the ship’s dispensary powerful enough to put me to
+sleep.”
+
+“Then keep quiet and think of Mona. That will be the next best
+occupation for you. Stop laughing, or I shall disappoint you, after
+all. I should think the memory of the first time I sang for you would be
+enough to sober you. Now I am going to turn away my head, so that if you
+do look around you won’t see my face.”
+
+I said nothing in reply, being too eager to have her begin. And now I
+had not long to wait for the fulfillment of my oft-expressed desire.
+
+Sweet and low came the first accents of her song, and, with all my
+anticipations and with the foretaste I had had in my sleep, I was not
+prepared for the effect they had on me. It was Mona’s voice, but with
+every fine quality so exaggerated that all my faculties, now in the
+fullest sense awake, were completely taken captive. I made no movement,
+except to turn my head slightly so that I might drink in the sweet
+sounds with both ears. As the notes increased in volume my pleasure grew
+to rapture. Not only was my critical taste fully satisfied, which of
+itself was almost bliss, but that other and higher effect followed--my
+heart was enlisted. I had never known love till that hour. We had been
+introduced to each other years ago and had kept up a cold and formal
+acquaintance, and in my recent sleep we had made notable progress,
+but only now did love and I really clasp hands in a warm and lasting
+embrace.
+
+If I had loved Margaret before, then the feeling I now had was something
+else, it was so different. But it was nothing else, and, therefore, I
+was obliged to conclude that I had lived all these years with a false
+notion in my head. As the song changed now and then, but did not
+stop, my heart swelled with its strong emotion, and I had the greatest
+difficulty to keep my promise and remain quiet. At length the music
+ceased, and I jumped from my chair with the intention of giving Margaret
+some palpable sign of my new love, when I was arrested by her warning
+hand and these words:
+
+“Wait, Walter, someone is coming. I can see all you want to tell me in
+your face.”
+
+I was obliged to stop, and reserve for a more private place any violent
+manifestation of my exuberant affection, but answered quietly:
+
+“Not all, dear Margaret. You will never know all my love.” There was now
+more or less passing back and forth by the passengers, preparing for the
+approaching landing, but yet we were able to continue our conversation.
+At Margaret’s request I told her more about Mona and Avis, and the
+principal incidents of what seemed to me a real experience, reserving
+the graver parts of the story for other occasions. Her sympathies went
+out particularly toward Mona, and suggested the question:
+
+“Did not the poor child recover her voice?”
+
+“I think she did soon after we left,” I replied. “I neglected to tell
+you that, the morning we started for our last aerial trip, Antonia told
+me she was teaching Mona the use of the vocal organs, and the results
+were already such that she believed she would in a short time be
+entirely successful.”
+
+“How fortunate for me,” said Margaret, laughing, “that you came away
+just then.”
+
+“Oh, Margaret,” I exclaimed as loud as I dared, “I thought I was happy
+last night, but what shall I call my condition now? Do you have that
+intensity of feeling for me which is nearly bursting my heart?”
+
+“Yes, my dear, I have had it for years. But my love is certainly
+increasing now, when I see yours flowering out so luxuriantly.”
+
+In such sweet converse the time passed rapidly. Steadily our noble
+vessel carried us every moment nearer home. And with the last words of
+Thorwald, “Go back to the earth,” still ringing in my ears, we steamed
+amid familiar scenes--the lights from Long Island, New Jersey, Staten
+Island, and soon Liberty’s torch, Governor’s Island, and the great city
+in front of us. This voyage was ended, but our life’s voyage seemed to
+be just beginning as I led Margaret forth with wonderful tenderness and
+whispered in her ear, passionately, the magic words, “I love you.”
+
+
+
+
+POSTSCRIPT.
+
+
+Every book should have a purpose. Notwithstanding the popular character
+of much that is contained in these pages, the purpose of this volume is
+a serious one.
+
+I acquired the belief in the habitability of other worlds when quite
+young, and it long ago grew into a settled conviction.
+
+Firmly held by this idea, what is called the astronomical difficulty in
+theology gave me great concern. When I considered the vast extent of the
+universe, and saw, with but little imagination, millions on millions of
+habitable worlds, I felt the force of the old objection, How could our
+tiny earth have been chosen for such peculiar and high honor as we read
+of in the gospel story?
+
+Thomas Chalmers, in the preface to his astronomical discourses,
+states the difficulty in these words: “This argument involves in it an
+assertion and an inference. The assertion is, that Christianity is a
+religion which professes to be designed for the single benefit of our
+world; and the inference is, that God cannot be the author of this
+religion, for he would not lavish on so insignificant a field such
+peculiar and such distinguishing attentions as are ascribed to him in
+the Old and New Testaments.”
+
+And then Dr. Chalmers proceeds in his able manner to overthrow both
+assertion and inference. He shows that it is only presumption for the
+infidel to claim that Christianity is designed solely for this world,
+and asks how he is able to tell us, “that if you go to other planets,
+the person and religion of Jesus are there unknown to them.” “For
+anything he [the infidel] can tell,” the writer continues, “the
+redemption proclaimed to us is not one solitary instance, or not the
+whole of that redemption which is by the Son of God;... the moral
+pestilence, which walks abroad over the face of our world, may have
+spread its desolation over all the planets of all the systems which the
+telescope has made known to us.... The eternal Son, of whom it is said
+that by him the worlds were created, may have had the government of many
+sinful worlds laid upon his shoulders.”
+
+In this and in all the rest of his argument Dr. Chalmers, while
+intimating that the redemption may include other worlds, retains the
+belief that the actual occurrences related in the gospel took place only
+on this globe. Others may have heard the story, or, as he beautifully
+says: “The wonder-working God, who has strewed the field of immensity
+with so many worlds, and spread the shelter of his omnipotence over
+them, may have sent a message of love to each, and reassured the
+hearts of its despairing people by some overpowering manifestation of
+tenderness.... Angels from paradise may have sped to every planet their
+delegated way, and sung from each azure canopy a joyful annunciation,
+and said, ‘Peace be to this residence and good will to all its families,
+and glory to Him in the highest, who from the eminence of his throne has
+issued an act of grace so magnificent as to carry the tidings of life
+and of acceptance to the unnumbered orbs of a sinful creation.’”
+
+But, as Dr. Chalmers truthfully says, it is not the infidel alone that
+raises this question. It is asked by many sincere believers, generally
+in communion with their own minds, and has disturbed, if not hindered,
+their faith. These brilliant discourses left me still perplexed on the
+main point, and I was forced to ask myself again if it was at all likely
+that one world could be made so unlike all others as to become the only
+scene of such a wonderful event as the death of the Son of God. And even
+if this could be made to seem probable, what an infinitesimal chance
+there would be that our earth would be the one chosen for this
+exhibition, out of the unnumbered worlds that fill the immensity of
+space.
+
+As a feeble hint toward a possible solution of this difficulty, this
+volume is offered. The argument may not be acceptable to a single
+reader. I do not say that I believe it myself; but the thought has
+helped to satisfy my mind and may be of assistance to some other soul.
+I will merely say that, of course, I do not believe the analogy between
+any two worlds is so close as I have made it, for the purposes of the
+story, between Mars and the earth.
+
+In my effort to relieve the book of dullness, I have exaggerated some of
+the situations, as in the treatment of the woman question for example,
+but the intelligent reader will easily discover whether there be
+anything of value remaining after the extravagance has been brushed
+away.
+
+Alvan Clark & Sons, the celebrated makers of telescopic lenses, in view
+of their recent successes in casting larger object-glasses than was once
+thought possible, now assert that they can place no limit to the size
+these glasses may reach in the future. It is only a question of time,
+skill, patience, and money.
+
+Is it, then, presumptuous to believe that the day will dawn when this
+world will know whether Venus or Mars is inhabited? And if either or
+both of them shall be found to be peopled, among the many questions of
+engrossing interest to be studied it seems clear to me that the most
+important will be the moral and spiritual condition of the inhabitants.
+
+THE AUTHOR.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+End of Project Gutenberg’s Daybreak: A Romance of an Old World, by James Cowan
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+<html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" lang="en">
+  <head>
+    <title>
+      Daybreak, by James Cowan
+    </title>
+    <style type="text/css" xml:space="preserve">
+
+    body { margin:5%; background:#faebd0; text-align:justify}
+    P { text-indent: 1em; margin-top: .25em; margin-bottom: .25em; }
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+    .foot { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; text-indent: -3em; font-size: 90%; }
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+    .mynote    {background-color: #DDE; color: #000; padding: .5em; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 95%;}
+    .toc       { margin-left: 10%; margin-bottom: .75em;}
+    .toc2      { margin-left: 20%;}
+    div.fig    { display:block; margin:0 auto; text-align:center; }
+    div.middle { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; }
+    .figleft   {float: left; margin-left: 0%; margin-right: 1%;}
+    .figright  {float: right; margin-right: 0%; margin-left: 1%;}
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+               margin: 0; padding: 0; position: absolute; right: 1%;
+               text-align: right;}
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+               text-indent: 0; font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;
+               font-weight: bold; color: black; background: #eeeeee; border: solid 1px;}
+    pre        { font-style: italic; font-size: 90%; margin-left: 10%;}
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+<pre>
+
+Project Gutenberg's Daybreak: A Romance of an Old World, by James Cowan
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: Daybreak: A Romance of an Old World
+
+Author: James Cowan
+
+
+Release Date: April, 2005 [EBook #7814]
+This file was first posted on May 19, 2003
+Last Updated: November 3, 2016
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: UTF-8
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK DAYBREAK ***
+
+
+
+
+Text file produced by Anne Soulard, Suzanne Shell, William Craig,
+Robert Laporte, Steen Christensen and the Online Distributed
+Proofreading Team
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+HTML file produced by David Widger
+
+
+
+
+</pre>
+
+    <div style="height: 8em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h1>
+      DAYBREAK
+    </h1>
+    <h3>
+      A ROMANCE OF AN OLD WORLD
+    </h3>
+    <p>
+      <br />
+    </p>
+    <h2>
+      By James Cowan
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <hr />
+    <p>
+      <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <b>CONTENTS</b>
+    </p>
+    <p class="toc">
+      <a href="#link2H_4_0001"> <b>DAYBREAK:</b> </a>
+    </p>
+    <p class="toc">
+      <a href="#link2HCH0001"> CHAPTER I. AN ASTRONOMER ROYAL. </a>
+    </p>
+    <p class="toc">
+      <a href="#link2HCH0002"> CHAPTER II. A FALLEN SATELLITE. </a>
+    </p>
+    <p class="toc">
+      <a href="#link2HCH0003"> CHAPTER III. TWO MEN IN THE MOON. </a>
+    </p>
+    <p class="toc">
+      <a href="#link2HCH0004"> CHAPTER IV. AND ONE WOMAN. </a>
+    </p>
+    <p class="toc">
+      <a href="#link2HCH0005"> CHAPTER V. OUR INTRODUCTION TO MARS. </a>
+    </p>
+    <p class="toc">
+      <a href="#link2HCH0006"> CHAPTER VI. A REMARKABLE PEOPLE. </a>
+    </p>
+    <p class="toc">
+      <a href="#link2HCH0007"> CHAPTER VII. RAPID TRANSIT ON MARS. </a>
+    </p>
+    <p class="toc">
+      <a href="#link2HCH0008"> CHAPTER VIII. THORWALD PUZZLED. </a>
+    </p>
+    <p class="toc">
+      <a href="#link2HCH0009"> CHAPTER IX. THORWALD AS A PROPHET. </a>
+    </p>
+    <p class="toc">
+      <a href="#link2HCH0010"> CHAPTER X. MORE WORLDS THAN TWO. </a>
+    </p>
+    <p class="toc">
+      <a href="#link2HCH0011"> CHAPTER XI. MARS AS IT IS. </a>
+    </p>
+    <p class="toc">
+      <a href="#link2HCH0012"> CHAPTER XII. WE REACH THORWALD&rsquo;S HOME. </a>
+    </p>
+    <p class="toc">
+      <a href="#link2HCH0013"> CHAPTER XIII. A MORNING TALK. </a>
+    </p>
+    <p class="toc">
+      <a href="#link2HCH0014"> CHAPTER XIV. PROCTOR SHOWS US THE EARTH. </a>
+    </p>
+    <p class="toc">
+      <a href="#link2HCH0015"> CHAPTER XV. A NIGHT ADVENTURE </a>
+    </p>
+    <p class="toc">
+      <a href="#link2HCH0016"> CHAPTER XVI. AN UNLIKELY STORY </a>
+    </p>
+    <p class="toc">
+      <a href="#link2HCH0017"> CHAPTER XVII. THE DOCTOR IS CONVINCED </a>
+    </p>
+    <p class="toc">
+      <a href="#link2HCH0018"> CHAPTER XVIII. STRUCK BY A COMET. </a>
+    </p>
+    <p class="toc">
+      <a href="#link2HCH0019"> CHAPTER XIX. I DISCOVER THE SINGER. </a>
+    </p>
+    <p class="toc">
+      <a href="#link2HCH0020"> CHAPTER XX. A WONDERFUL REVELATION. </a>
+    </p>
+    <p class="toc">
+      <a href="#link2HCH0021"> CHAPTER XXI. A LITTLE ANCIENT HISTORY. </a>
+    </p>
+    <p class="toc">
+      <a href="#link2HCH0022"> CHAPTER XXII. AGAIN THE MOON. </a>
+    </p>
+    <p class="toc">
+      <a href="#link2HCH0023"> CHAPTER XXIII. WE SEARCH FOR MONA. </a>
+    </p>
+    <p class="toc">
+      <a href="#link2HCH0024"> CHAPTER XXIV. THE PICTURE TELEGRAPH. </a>
+    </p>
+    <p class="toc">
+      <a href="#link2HCH0025"> CHAPTER XXV. AN UNSATISFACTORY LOVER. </a>
+    </p>
+    <p class="toc">
+      <a href="#link2HCH0026"> CHAPTER XXVI. AN ENVIABLE CONDITION. </a>
+    </p>
+    <p class="toc">
+      <a href="#link2HCH0027"> CHAPTER XXVII. THE CHILDREN&rsquo;S DAY. </a>
+    </p>
+    <p class="toc">
+      <a href="#link2HCH0028"> CHAPTER XXVIII. BUSINESS ETHICS. </a>
+    </p>
+    <p class="toc">
+      <a href="#link2HCH0029"> CHAPTER XXIX. THE INDUSTRIAL PROBLEM. </a>
+    </p>
+    <p class="toc">
+      <a href="#link2HCH0030"> CHAPTER XXX. ATTEMPTS TO SOLVE THE PROBLEM. </a>
+    </p>
+    <p class="toc">
+      <a href="#link2HCH0031"> CHAPTER XXXI. WINE-DRINKING IN MARS. </a>
+    </p>
+    <p class="toc">
+      <a href="#link2HCH0032"> CHAPTER XXXII. A GENUINE ACCIDENT. </a>
+    </p>
+    <p class="toc">
+      <a href="#link2HCH0033"> CHAPTER XXXIII. THE EMANCIPATION OF WOMAN. </a>
+    </p>
+    <p class="toc">
+      <a href="#link2HCH0034"> CHAPTER XXXIV. THE EMANCIPATION OF MAN. </a>
+    </p>
+    <p class="toc">
+      <a href="#link2HCH0035"> CHAPTER XXXV. AN EXALTED THEME. </a>
+    </p>
+    <p class="toc">
+      <a href="#link2HCH0036"> CHAPTER XXXVI. VANQUISHED AGAIN BY A VOICE. </a>
+    </p>
+    <p class="toc">
+      <a href="#link2HCH0037"> CHAPTER XXXVII. UNTIL THE DAY BREAK. </a>
+    </p>
+    <p class="toc">
+      <a href="#link2HCH0038"> CHAPTER XXXVIII. AND THE SHADOWS FLEE AWAY. </a>
+    </p>
+    <p class="toc">
+      <a href="#link2HCH0039"> CHAPTER XXXIX. A SUDDEN RETURN TO THE EARTH. </a>
+    </p>
+    <p class="toc">
+      <a href="#link2H_4_0041"> POSTSCRIPT. </a>
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <hr />
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2H_4_0001" id="link2H_4_0001"> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h1>
+      DAYBREAK:
+    </h1>
+    <h3>
+      A ROMANCE OF AN OLD WORLD
+    </h3>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <hr />
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2HCH0001" id="link2HCH0001"> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      CHAPTER I. AN ASTRONOMER ROYAL.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      It was an evening in early autumn in the last year of the nineteenth
+      century. We were nearing the close of a voyage as calm and peaceful as our
+      previous lives.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Margaret had been in Europe a couple of years and I had just been over to
+      bring her home, and we were now expecting to reach New York in a day or
+      two.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Margaret and I were the best of friends. Indeed, we had loved each other
+      from our earliest recollection. No formal words of betrothal had ever
+      passed between us, but for years we had spoken of our future marriage as
+      naturally as if we were the most regularly engaged couple in the world.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Walter,&rdquo; asked Margaret in her impulsive way, &ldquo;at what temperature does
+      mercury melt?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Well, to hazard a guess,&rdquo; I replied, &ldquo;I should say about one degree above
+      its freezing point. Why, do you think of making an experiment?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Yes, on you. And I am going to begin by being very frank with you. You
+      have made me a number of hurried visits during my stay in Europe, but we
+      have seen more of each other in the course of this voyage than for two
+      long years. I trust you will not be offended when I say I hoped to find
+      you changed. I have never spoken to you about this, even in my letters,
+      and it is only because I am a little older now, and because my love for
+      you has increased with every day of life, that I have the courage to frame
+      these words.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Do tell me what it is,&rdquo; I exclaimed, thoroughly alarmed at her serious
+      manner. &ldquo;Let me know how I have disappointed you and I will make what
+      amends I can. Tell me the nature of the change you have been looking for
+      and I will begin the transformation at once, before my character becomes
+      fixed.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Alas! and if it should be already fixed,&rdquo; she replied, without a smile.
+      &ldquo;Perhaps it is unreasonable in me to expect it in you as a man, when you
+      had so little of it as a boy; but I used to think it was only shyness
+      then, and always hoped you would outgrow that and gradually become an
+      ideal lover. You have such a multitude of other perfections, however, that
+      it may be nature has denied you this so that I may be reminded that you
+      are human. If the choice had been left with me I think I should have
+      preferred to leave out some other quality in the make-up of your
+      character, good as they all are.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;What bitter pill is this,&rdquo; I asked, &ldquo;that you are sugar-coating to such
+      an extent? Don&rsquo;t you see that I am aching to begin the improvement in my
+      manners, as soon as you point out the direction?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;You must know what I mean from my first abrupt question,&rdquo; she answered.
+      &ldquo;To make an extreme comparison, frozen mercury is warm beside you, Walter.
+      If you are really to be loyal knight of mine I must send you on a quest
+      for your heart.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Ah, I supposed it was understood that I had given it to you.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I have never seen it,&rdquo; she continued, &ldquo;and you have never before said as
+      much as is contained in those last words. Here we are, talking of many
+      things we shall do after we are married, and yet you have nothing to say
+      of all that wonderful and beautiful world of romance that ought to come
+      before marriage. Is this voyage to come to an end and mean no more to us
+      than to these hundreds of passengers around us, who seem only intent to
+      get back to their work at the earliest possible moment? And is our wedding
+      day to approach and pass and be looked upon merely as part of the
+      necessary and becoming business of our lives? In short, am I never to hear
+      a real love note?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Margaret, I have a sister. You know something of the depth of my
+      affection for her. When I meet her in New York to-morrow or next day, if I
+      should throw my arms around her neck and exclaim, in impassioned tones,
+      &lsquo;My sister, I love you,&rsquo; what would she think of me?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;She would think you had left your senses on the other side,&rdquo; replied
+      Margaret, laughing. &ldquo;But I decline to accept the parallel. I have not
+      given up my heart to your keeping these many years to be only a sister to
+      you at last.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But my mother! Is it possible for me to love you more than my mother
+      loved me? And yet I never heard her speak one word on the subject, and,
+      now that I think of it, I am not sure but words would have cheapened her
+      affection in my mind. You do not doubt me, Margaret?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;No more than you doubted your mother, although she never told her love.
+      No, it is not so serious as that; but I wish you were more demonstrative,
+      Walter.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;What, in words? Isn&rsquo;t there something that speaks louder than words?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Yes, but let us hear the words, too. There is a beautiful proverb in
+      India which says, &lsquo;Words are the daughters of earth and deeds are the sons
+      of heaven.&rsquo; That is true, but let us not try to pass through life without
+      enjoying the company of some of the &lsquo;daughters of earth.&rsquo;&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I will confess this much, Margaret, that your words are one of your
+      principal charms.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Oh, do you really think so? I consider that a great compliment from you,
+      for I have often tried to repress myself, fearing that my impulsive and
+      sometimes passionate speech would offend your taste, you who are outwardly
+      so cold. Do you know, I have a whole vocabulary of endearing terms ready
+      to be poured into your ears as soon as you begin to give me
+      encouragement?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Then teach me how to encourage you, and I will certainly begin at once.
+      Shall we seek some retired spot, where we can be free from observation,
+      and then shall I seize your hand, fall on my knees, and, in vehement and
+      extravagant words, declare a passion which you already know I have, just
+      as well as you know I am breathing at this moment?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Good!&rdquo; cried Margaret. &ldquo;That&rsquo;s almost as fine as the real scene. So you
+      have a passion for me. I really think you are improving.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      Before going on with this conversation, let me tell you a little more
+      about Margaret and my relations to her.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      There was good cause for her complaint. I was at that time a sort of
+      animated icicle, as far as my emotional nature was concerned. But although
+      I could not express my feelings to Margaret in set phrase, I do not mind
+      saying to you that I loved her dearly, or thought I did, which was the
+      same thing for the time being. I loved her as well as I was capable of
+      loving anybody. What I lacked Margaret more than made up, for she was the
+      warmest-hearted creature in all the world. If I should begin to enumerate
+      her perfections of person and character I should never care to stop.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Her educational advantages had been far above the average, and she had
+      improved them in a manner to gratify her friends and create for herself
+      abundant mental resources. She had taken the full classical course at
+      Harvard, carrying off several of the high prizes, had then enjoyed two
+      years of post-graduate work at Clark, and finally spent two more years in
+      foreign travel and study. As has been intimated, I had been over for her,
+      and we were now on our way home, expecting to land on the morrow or the
+      day after.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      If you imagine that Margaret had lost anything by her education or was
+      less fitted to make a good home, it is because you never knew her. Instead
+      of being stunted in her growth, broken in constitution, round-shouldered,
+      pale-faced and weak-eyed, the development of her body had kept pace with
+      the expansion of her mind, and she was now in the perfect flower of young
+      womanhood, with body and soul both of generous mold. Her marvelous beauty
+      had been refined and heightened by her intellectual culture, and even her
+      manners, so charming before, were now more than ever the chaste and
+      well-ordered adornments of a noble character. She was as vivacious and
+      sparkling as if she had never known the restraints of school, but without
+      extravagance of any kind to detract from her self-poise. In short, she was
+      a symphony, a grand and harmonious composition, and still human enough to
+      love a mortal like me. Such was the woman who was trying to instill into
+      my wooing a little of the warmth and sympathy of her delightful nature. As
+      for myself, it will be necessary to mention only a single characteristic.
+      I had a remarkably good ear, as we say. Not only was my sense of hearing
+      unusually acute, but I had an almost abnormal appreciation of musical
+      sounds. Although without the ability to sing or play and without the habit
+      of application necessary to learn these accomplishments, I was, from my
+      earliest years, a great lover of music. People who are born without the
+      power of nicely discriminating between sounds often say they enjoy music,
+      but these excellent people do not begin to understand the intense pleasure
+      with which one listens, whose auricular nerves are more highly developed.
+      But this rare and soul-stirring enjoyment is many times accompanied, as in
+      my case, with acute suffering whenever the tympanum is made to resound
+      with the slightest discord. The most painful moments of my life,
+      physically speaking, have been those in which I have been forced to listen
+      to diabolical noises. A harsh, rasping sound has often given me a pang
+      more severe than neuralgia, while even an uncultivated voice or an
+      instrument out of tune has jarred on my sensitive nerves for hours.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      My musical friends all hated me in their hearts, for my peculiarity made
+      me a merciless critic; and the most serious youthful quarrel between
+      Margaret and myself arose from the same cause. Nature had given Margaret a
+      voice of rare sweetness and a fine musical taste, and her friends had
+      encouraged her in singing from her youth. One day, before she had received
+      much instruction, she innocently asked me to listen to a song she was
+      studying, when I was cruel enough to laugh at her and ridicule the idea of
+      her ever learning to sing correctly. This rudeness made such an impression
+      on her girlish mind that, although she forgave the offense and continued
+      to love the offender, she could never be induced again to try her vocal
+      powers before me. All through her school and college days she devoted some
+      attention to music, and while I heard from others much about her
+      advancement and the extraordinary quality of her voice, she always
+      declared she would never sing for me until she was sure she could put me
+      to shame for my early indiscretion, so painfully present in her memory.
+      This became in time quite a feature of our long courtship, for I was
+      constantly trying to have her break her foolish resolution and let me hear
+      her. Although unsuccessful, the situation was not without a pleasurable
+      interest for me, for I knew it must end some time, and in a way, no doubt,
+      to give me great enjoyment, judging from the accounts which came to my
+      ears. Margaret, too, was well satisfied to let the affair drift along
+      indefinitely, while she anticipated with delight the surprise she was
+      preparing for me.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      During the years she had just been spending abroad a good share of her
+      time had been given to her musical studies, principally vocal culture, and
+      in her letters she provokingly quoted, for my consideration, the
+      flattering comments of her instructors and other acquaintances. She did
+      this as part of my punishment, trying to make me realize how much pleasure
+      I was losing. Each time I crossed the ocean to visit her I expected she
+      would relent, but I was as often disappointed; and now this homeward
+      voyage had almost come to an end, and I had never heard her voice in song
+      since she was a child. Open and unreserved as she was by nature, in this
+      particular she had schooled herself to be as reticent and undemonstrative
+      as she accused me of being.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Our talk on the subject of my shortcomings, that evening on shipboard, had
+      not continued much longer before I acknowledged in plain language that I
+      knew my fault and was ready to cooperate in any scheme that could be
+      suggested to cure it.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;What you need,&rdquo; said Margaret, &ldquo;is some violent sensation, some
+      extraordinary experience to stir your soul.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Yes,&rdquo; I answered, &ldquo;my humdrum life, my wealth, which came to me without
+      any effort of my own, and the hitherto almost unruffled character of my
+      relations with you have all conspired to make me satisfied with an easy
+      and rather indolent existence. I realize I need a shaking up. I want to
+      forget myself in some novel experience, which shall engross all my
+      attention for a time and draw upon my sympathies if I have any.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But what can one do in &lsquo;this weak piping time of peace&rsquo;? There are no
+      maidens to be rescued from the enchantments of the wizard, and it is no
+      longer the fashion to ride forth with sword and halberd to murder in the
+      name of honor all who oppose themselves. No more dark continents wait to
+      be explored, neither is there novelty left in searching the ocean&rsquo;s depths
+      nor in sailing the sky above us. Civilized warfare itself, the only field
+      remaining where undying fame may be purchased, seems likely to lose its
+      hold on men, and soon the arbitrator will everywhere replace the
+      commander-in-chief and the noble art of war will degenerate into the
+      ignoble lawsuit. So even universal peace may have its drawbacks.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;That is quite sufficient in that line,&rdquo; said Margaret. &ldquo;Now let us come
+      down to something practicable.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Well, I might bribe the pilot to sink the steamer when we are going up
+      the bay, so that I could have the opportunity of saving your life.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;It would be almost worth the trial if it were not for the other people,&rdquo;
+       she returned. &ldquo;Such a role would become you immensely.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I regret that I cannot accommodate you,&rdquo; I said. &ldquo;But I have thought of
+      something which would be rather safer for you. How would you like to have
+      me fall desperately in love with some pretty girl?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Just the thing,&rdquo; exclaimed Margaret, laughing and clapping her hands, &ldquo;if
+      you can only be sure she will not return your passion.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Small chance of that,&rdquo; I answered. &ldquo;So you approve the plan, do you?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Certainly, if you care to try it. Lady never held knight against his
+      will. But have you forgotten that, after the resources of this planet are
+      exhausted, as you seem to think they are soon likely to be, you and I have
+      other worlds to conquer? Perhaps in that work you may find diversion
+      powerful enough to draw you out of yourself and, possibly, opportunities
+      for some heart culture.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      I must explain that this was a reference to a plan of life we were marking
+      out for ourselves. Margaret was an enthusiast on the subject of astronomy.
+      I would include myself in the same remark, only the word enthusiast did
+      not fit my temperament at that time. But our tastes agreed perfectly in
+      that matter, and we had always read with avidity everything we could find
+      on the subject. Margaret, however, was the student, and as she had
+      developed great proficiency in mathematics, she had decided to make
+      astronomy her profession.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      It was understood that I was to perform the easier part of furnishing the
+      money for an observatory and instruments of our own, and I was determined
+      to keep pace with Margaret in her studies as well as I could in an
+      amateurish way, so that she might be able to retain me as an assistant. We
+      were to be married at sunrise sharp, on the first day of the next century,
+      and to lay the corner-stone of our observatory at the exact moment of the
+      summer solstice of the same year. These were Margaret&rsquo;s suggestions, but
+      even I was not averse to letting my friends see I had a little sentiment.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      That night I dreamed of almost everything we had been talking about, but
+      lay awake at intervals, wondering if I could, by force of will, work out
+      the reform in my character which Margaret desired. The night passed, and
+      it was just as I was rising that a thought flashed upon me which I
+      determined to put into execution at the first opportunity. This came early
+      the next evening. As we expected to reach our wharf soon, we had finished
+      our packing, and were now sitting alone in a retired spot on deck on the
+      starboard side. As soon as we were comfortably arranged I said to my
+      companion:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Margaret, as this is the last evening of this voyage, it makes an epoch
+      in our lives. Your school days are now over, and henceforth we hope to be
+      together. Would not this be a most appropriate time for me to be
+      introduced to a voice with which I propose to spend the rest of my life?
+      Last night you were anxious to think of something which would arouse my
+      dormant heart and draw out in more passionate expression my too obscure
+      affections. Your words haunted my sleeping and waking thoughts until it
+      fortunately occurred to me that you yourself had the very means for
+      accomplishing my reformation. You know how impressionable I am to every
+      wave of sound. Who knows but your voice, which I am sure will be the
+      sweetest in the world to me, may be the instrument destined to stir my
+      drowsy soul, to loose my halting tongue, and even to force my proud knees
+      to bend before you? In short, why not adopt my suggestion, break your
+      long-kept resolution, and sing for me this moment? Is the possible result
+      not worth the trial?&rdquo; To this long address, which was a great effort for
+      me, Margaret answered:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;You surprise me already, Walter. If the mere thought of hearing me sing
+      can prompt such a sentimental speech as that, what would the song itself
+      do? Perhaps it would drive you to the other extreme, and you would become
+      gushing. Just think of that. But, seriously, I am afraid you would laugh
+      at my voice and send me back to Germany. When you were talking I thought I
+      could detect an undercurrent of fun in your words.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I assure you I was never more in earnest in my life, and I am sorry you
+      will not sing. Is your answer final?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I think I will wait a little longer. We are liable to be disturbed here.
+      And now that you have made a start, perhaps you will improve in manners
+      becoming a lover without any more help.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;No, I shall relapse and be worse than ever. Now is your time to help me
+      find my heart.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      Without answering, Margaret sprang up impulsively, exclaiming:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;There! I have forgotten that book the professor borrowed. Men never
+      return anything. I must go and get it, and put it into my bag. And I had
+      better run down and see if auntie wants anything. You stay right here;
+      don&rsquo;t move, and I&rsquo;ll be back in just three minutes.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <hr />
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2HCH0002" id="link2HCH0002"> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      CHAPTER II. A FALLEN SATELLITE.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      I promised, and then settled myself more comfortably into my steamer chair
+      to await Margaret&rsquo;s return. The three minutes passed, and she did not
+      come. Evidently it was hard to find the professor, or perhaps he was
+      holding her, against her will, for a discussion of the book. At any rate,
+      I could do nothing but sit there, in that easy, half-reclining position,
+      and watch the full moon, which had just risen, and was shining square in
+      my face, if that could be said of an object that looked so round.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      I fell into a deep reverie. My mind was filled with contending emotions,
+      and such opposing objects as rolling worlds and lovely maidens flitted in
+      dim images across my mental vision. I loved the best woman on the earth,
+      and I wondered if any of those other globes contained her equal. If so,
+      then perhaps some other man was as fortunate as myself. I was drowsy, but
+      determined to keep awake and pursue this fancy. I remember feeling
+      confident that I could not sleep if I only kept my eyes open, and so I
+      said I would keep them fixed on the bright face of the moon. But how large
+      it looked. Surely something must be wrong with it, or was it my memory
+      that was at fault? I thought the moon generally appeared smaller as it
+      rose further above the horizon, but now it was growing bigger every
+      minute. It was coming nearer, too. Nearer, larger&mdash;why, it was
+      monstrous. I could not turn my eyes away now, and everything else was
+      forgotten, swallowed up in that one awful sight. How fast it grew. Now it
+      fills half the sky and makes me tremble with fear. Part of it is still
+      lighted by the sun, and part is in dark, threatening shadow. I see pale
+      faces around me. Others are gazing, awe-stricken, at the same object. We
+      are in the open street, and some have glasses, peering into the deep
+      craters and caverns of the surface.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      I seemed to be a new-comer on the scene, and could not help remarking to
+      my nearest neighbor:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;This is a strange sight. Do you think it is real, or are we all bereft of
+      our senses?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Strange indeed, but true,&rdquo; he answered.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But what does it mean?&rdquo; And then, assuming a gayety I did not feel, I
+      asked further: &ldquo;Does the moon, too, want to be annexed to the United
+      States?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;You speak lightly, young man,&rdquo; my neighbor said, &ldquo;and do not appear to
+      realize the seriousness of our situation. Where have you been, that you
+      have not heard this matter discussed, and do not understand that the moon
+      is certain to come into collision with the earth in a very short time?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      He seemed thoroughly alarmed, and I soon found that all the people shared
+      his feeling. The movement of the earth carried us out of sight of the moon
+      in a few hours, but after a brief rest everybody was on the watch again at
+      the next revolution. The excitement over the behavior of our once despised
+      moon increased rapidly from this time. Nothing else was talked of,
+      business was well-nigh suspended, and the newspapers neglected everything
+      else to tell about the unparalleled natural phenomenon. Speculation was
+      rife as to what would be the end, and what effect would follow a union of
+      the earth with its satellite.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      While this discussion was going on, the unwelcome visitor was approaching
+      with noticeable rapidity at every revolution of the earth, and the immense
+      dark shadow which it now made, as it passed beneath the sun, seemed
+      ominous of an ill fate to our world and its inhabitants. It was a time to
+      try the stoutest hearts, and, of course, the multitude of the people were
+      overwhelmed with alarm. As no one could do anything to ward off what
+      seemed a certain catastrophe, the situation was all the more dreadful. Men
+      could only watch the monster, speculate as to the result, and wait, with
+      horrible suspense, for the inevitable. The circle of revolution was now
+      becoming so small that the crisis was hourly expected. Men everywhere left
+      their houses and sought the shelterless fields, and it was well they did
+      so, for there came a day when the earth received a sudden and awful shock.
+      After it had passed, people looked at each other wonderingly to find
+      themselves alive, and began congratulating each other, thinking the worst
+      was over. But the dreadful anxiety returned when, after some hours, the
+      moon again appeared, a little tardy this time, but nearer and more
+      threatening than ever. The news was afterwards brought that it had struck
+      the high mountain peaks of Central Asia, tearing down their sides with the
+      power of a thousand glaciers and filling the valleys below with ruin.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      It was now felt that the end must soon come, and this was true, for at the
+      earth&rsquo;s very next revolution the tired and feeble satellite, once the
+      queen of the sky and the poet&rsquo;s glory, scraped across the continent of
+      South America, received the death blow in collision with the Andes,
+      careened, and fell at last into the South Pacific Ocean. The shock given
+      to the earth was tremendous, but no other result was manifest except that
+      the huge mass displaced water enough to submerge many islands and to
+      reconstruct the shore lines of every continent. There was untold loss of
+      life and property, of course, but it is astonishing how easily those who
+      were left alive accepted the new state of things, when it was found that
+      the staid earth, in spite of the enormous wart on her side, was making her
+      daily revolution almost with her accustomed regularity.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The lovers of science, however, were by no means indifferent to the
+      new-comer. To be able at last to solve all the problems of the
+      constitution and geography of the moon was enough to fill them with the
+      greatest enthusiasm. But, while thousands were ready to investigate the
+      mysterious visitor, one great difficulty stood in the way of all progress.
+      It seemed impossible to get a foothold on the surface. The great globe
+      rose from the waves on all sides at such an angle on account of its shape
+      that a lodgment could not easily be made. Ships sailed under the
+      overhanging sides, and in a calm sea they would send out their boats,
+      which approached near enough to secure huge specimens. These were broken
+      into fragments and were soon sold on the streets of every city.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The first to really set foot on the dead satellite were some adventurous
+      advertisers, who shot an arrow and cord over a projecting crag, pulled a
+      rope after it, and finally drew themselves up, and soon the lunar cliffs
+      were put to some practical use, blazoning forth a few staring words. These
+      men could not go beyond their narrow standing place, for the general curve
+      of the surface, although broken up by many irregularities, presented no
+      opportunities for the most skillful climbing.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      But it was impossible that, with the moon so near, the problem of reaching
+      it could long remain unsolved. Dr. Schwartz, an eminent scientist, was the
+      first to suggest that it must be approached in a balloon, and at the same
+      time he announced that he would be one of two men, if another could be
+      found, to undertake to effect a landing in that way. Here, I saw, was my
+      opportunity. I had often dreamed of visiting the moon and other heavenly
+      bodies, and now here was a chance to go in reality. I had some
+      acquaintance with Dr. Schwartz, and my prompt application for the vacant
+      place in the proposed expedition was successful. The doctor kindly wrote
+      me that my enthusiasm in the cause was just what he was looking for, and
+      he was sure I would prove a plucky and reliable companion. The matter
+      attracted so much attention that the United States Government, moved to
+      action by the public nature of the enterprise, took it up and offered to
+      bear all the expense of the equipment and carrying out of the expedition.
+      Encouraged by this assistance, the doctor began his plans at once. All
+      recognized that one great object was to settle the question as to the
+      existence of life on the other side of the moon; for, in spite of its rude
+      collisions with mountains and continents before it rested as near the
+      heart of the earth as it could get, it had insisted, with an almost
+      knowing perversity, in keeping its old, familiar face next to us. To solve
+      this problem might take much time, and so we determined to go so well
+      prepared that, if we once reached the upper surface of the moon, we could
+      stay as long as our errand demanded.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      It was decided to make the ascent from a town near the coast of the
+      southern part of Chile, and thither we went with our balloon, some
+      scientific apparatus, and a large quantity of dried provisions. We took
+      with us also papers from the State Department showing that we were
+      accredited agents from our Government to the inhabitants of the moon, if
+      we should find any. Our arrangements were speedily made, and on a still,
+      bright morning we bade adieu to our friends who had accompanied us thus
+      far, mounted our car, and set sail.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      We left the earth with light hearts, excited with the novel and
+      interesting character of the enterprise, and but little realizing its
+      difficulty and danger. Ordinary balloon journeys had become frequent, and
+      the evolution of the air ship had almost passed beyond the experimental
+      stage, but nothing like our present undertaking had ever been attempted.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Our starting place was far enough from the resting point of the moon to
+      enable us to clear the rounded side, but in order to reach the equatorial
+      line of the fallen globe we would be obliged to ascend over a thousand
+      miles.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The fact that we were not appalled by the mere thought of rising to such a
+      height shows how thoroughly we were carried away with the excitement. But
+      we were better prepared for a lofty flight than might be supposed. For
+      among the recent wonders of science had been the invention of an
+      air-condensing machine, by which the rarefied atmosphere of the upper
+      regions could be converted into good food for the lungs. These machines
+      had been successfully tested more than once by voyagers of the air, but
+      the present occasion promised to give them a much more severe trial than
+      they had yet received. And, indeed, it is impossible to imagine how we
+      could have survived without them. Another important aid to science
+      rendered by this air-condensing apparatus is that in the process of
+      condensation water is produced in sufficient quantities to drink. Our
+      little car was tightly inclosed, and we took enough surplus gas with us to
+      keep it comfortably warm. So, with plenty of food, air, water, and fuel,
+      we were pretty well prepared for a long journey.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Our instruments, placed just outside the glass sides of the car, told us
+      how fast we were rising and what height we had reached from time to time,
+      and as we left the denser atmosphere of the earth we were gratified to
+      find that we continued to rise rapidly. On one side of us we could see the
+      rugged surface of the moon, now, on account of its rounded form, drawing
+      nearer to us every hour as we approached the point where we hoped to land.
+      We thought it best to try to pass the center and land, if possible,
+      somewhere on the upper hemisphere, which was the part of the monstrous
+      object that we wanted to investigate. But when at length we thought we
+      were about to fly past the moon&rsquo;s equator successfully, an unexpected
+      thing happened.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      If we suppose the moon was resting, at the bottom of the ocean, on one of
+      its poles, we were going toward the equatorial line, and we thought we
+      should not be able to retain a foothold anywhere below that line
+      certainly. But now, what was our surprise to find ourselves under some
+      mysterious influence. Our balloon refused to obey us as heretofore, and in
+      spite of rudder and sail we were drifting about, and appeared to be going
+      toward the moon&rsquo;s surface sooner than we had intended.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      In scientific emergencies I deferred to my companion, and now asked for an
+      explanation of this erratic behavior of our balloon. Instead of replying
+      at once, the doctor stooped and cut a fine wire, which released one of the
+      sand bags suspended for ballast from the bottom of our car, and told me to
+      watch it. We both watched it, and instead of starting with rapidity for
+      the center of the earth, as all well-conducted sand bags have done from
+      the beginning of the world, it seemed to hesitate and float around a
+      minute, as though it were no more than a handful of feathers. And then,
+      slowly at first, but soon more and more swiftly, forgetting its birthplace
+      and its old mother earth, it fell unblushingly toward the moon.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Intent on watching the fickle sand bag, we did not at first notice that
+      our whole conveyance was practicing the same unhandsome maneuver. But we
+      soon became aware that we had changed allegiance also. We had started with
+      the earth at our feet and the moon looming up on one side of us, but here
+      we were now riding with the moon under us and the earth away off at our
+      side.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      My fellow in this strange experience now found his voice.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;You doubtless realize,&rdquo; said he, &ldquo;what has taken place. We are now so far
+      from the earth that its attraction is very weak and the nearer mass of the
+      moon is drawing us.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;That is quite evident,&rdquo; I said, &ldquo;but you seem as unconcerned about it as
+      if such a trip as this were an everyday affair with you.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I am not at all indifferent to the wonderful character of this journey,&rdquo;
+       he replied, &ldquo;but its scientific value swallows up all personal
+      considerations.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      I believed this to be true, and I will say right here that in all our
+      future experiences the doctor showed the same indifference to everything
+      like fear, and seemed content to go to any length in the interest of
+      science.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      We were now able to govern our movements by the ordinary methods of
+      ballooning, and after sailing over the surface of the moon a few hours,
+      studying its rugged outlines, we began to think of selecting a place for
+      landing. There was no water to be seen and no forests nor other
+      vegetation, but everywhere were huge mountains and deep valleys, all as
+      bare and uninviting as it is possible to imagine.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      But it would not do to turn a cold shoulder to her now, and so we
+      descended gracefully to make her close acquaintance, cast out our anchor,
+      and were soon on the moon in reality.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <hr />
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2HCH0003" id="link2HCH0003"> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      CHAPTER III. TWO MEN IN THE MOON.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Well, Doctor,&rdquo; said I, as soon as our feet touched the ground, &ldquo;the moon
+      is inhabited now if never before.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Yes, yes,&rdquo; he answered, &ldquo;and I am glad to find the inhabitants are of
+      such a lively disposition.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Oh, who can help being light-hearted,&rdquo; I rejoined, &ldquo;when one&rsquo;s body is so
+      light?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      For as soon as we left our car we began to have the queerest sensations of
+      lightness. We felt as if we were standing on springs, which the least
+      motion would set off and up we would go toward the sky. Everything we
+      handled had but a small fraction of the weight it would possess on the
+      earth, and our great air-condensing machines we carried about with ease.
+      But however high we might jump we always returned to the ground, and
+      whether we were on top of the moon or on the bottom of it, it was pretty
+      certain that we could not fall off, any more than we could have fallen off
+      the earth before we voluntarily but so rashly left it.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      My exhilaration of spirit did not last, for I could not help thinking of
+      our condition. The law of gravitation surely held us, although with less
+      force than we had been accustomed to, on account of the smaller size of
+      the moon; and how were we to get away from it?
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      I again appealed to my companion.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I do not like the idea of spending the rest of our lives on the moon,
+      Doctor, but can you tell me how we are to prevent it? Can we ever get back
+      within the earth&rsquo;s attraction again?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I have been pondering the subject myself,&rdquo; he replied, &ldquo;and I think I can
+      give you some hope of seeing home once more. If our old measurements of
+      the moon are correct, and if we are, as I suppose, somewhere near the
+      equator, we must be about fifteen hundred miles from the earth, following
+      the curve of the moon&rsquo;s surface. Now, after we have finished our
+      investigations here, we can start for home on foot. We can cover a good
+      many miles a day, since walking can be no burden here, and we can easily
+      tow our balloon along. As we approach the earth, my impression is that we
+      shall become more and more light-footed, for we shall be gradually getting
+      back to the earth&rsquo;s attraction. Somewhere between this point and our
+      planet there must be a spot where the attraction of both bodies will be
+      equal, and we can stay on the moon or drop off and return to the earth in
+      our balloon as we please.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;What a curious idea,&rdquo; I answered; &ldquo;and yet, considering the strange
+      behavior of our sand bag, I don&rsquo;t know but you are right. And I have only
+      one suggestion to make; that is, that we start earthward at once and try
+      the experiment. Let the investigations go. If there are any inhabitants
+      here they will never miss us, since we haven&rsquo;t made their acquaintance
+      yet. Science or no science, I object to remaining any longer than
+      necessary in this uncertainty in regard to our future. You know very well
+      we couldn&rsquo;t live long in this temperature and with nothing for our lungs
+      but what comes through these horrid machines. And what good would come of
+      our discoveries if we are never to get back to the earth again? I profess
+      to have as much courage left as the ordinary mortal would have, but in the
+      present circumstances I believe no one would blame us for wanting to
+      settle this question at once.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;It would seem a trifle ridiculous,&rdquo; said the doctor in reply to this
+      harangue, &ldquo;for us to return to our planet without any further effort to
+      accomplish our errand. But I will not deny that I share something of your
+      feeling, and I will start with you right away, on condition that you will
+      return here if we find that I am correct in believing we can leave the
+      moon at our pleasure.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Agreed,&rdquo; I cried, and we were soon on our way.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      So far we had been exposed to the sun and were almost scorched by the
+      intensity of its rays. We had never experienced anything like such heat
+      and would not have supposed the human body could endure it. But now, soon
+      after we had started to find the place where the moon would let go of us,
+      the sun set and, with scarcely a minute&rsquo;s warning, we were plunged into
+      darkness and cold. The darkness was relieved by the exceedingly brilliant
+      appearance of the stars, the sky fairly blazing with them, but the cold
+      was almost unendurable even for the few moments in which we were exposed
+      to it. We secured our car as speedily as possible, climbed into it, and
+      got a little warmth from our gas heater.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      These extremes of temperature convinced us that no life such as we were
+      acquainted with could exist a great while on the moon.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      We found we could make no progress at all by night. We could only shut
+      ourselves up and wait for the sun to come. In trying to keep warm we would
+      work our air-condensers harder than usual, and the water thus produced we
+      would freeze in little cakes, and have them to help mitigate the burning
+      heat a short time the next day.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The country through which we were traveling was made up of bold mountain
+      peaks and deep ravines. There was no sign of vegetation and not even the
+      soil for it to grow in, but everywhere only hard, metallic rock that
+      showed unmistakably the action of fire.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      And so it was with the greatest difficulty that we made our way earthward,
+      although there was so little effort needed in walking. As I pondered the
+      doctor&rsquo;s idea, it seemed to me more and more that he must be right. We
+      were certainly held to the moon where we were by gravitation. It was just
+      as true that near the surface of the earth its superior attraction would
+      draw all objects to itself. Accordingly, if we kept on our way, why should
+      we not in time come to a place where we could throw ourselves once more
+      under the influence of the old earth, now becoming very dear to us?
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Thinking chiefly of this subject and talking of it every day, we labored
+      on, and finally were wonderfully encouraged with the belief that we were
+      actually walking easier and everything was becoming lighter. Soon this
+      belief became a certainty, and, since leaping was no effort, we leaped
+      with joy and hope.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      And now how shall I describe our sensations as we went bounding along,
+      hardly touching the ground, until we finally came to the place where it
+      was not necessary to touch the ground at all? Now we knew that by going
+      only a little further we should be able to mount our car and set sail for
+      the earth again. But with this knowledge we lost at once much of our
+      desire, and thought we would not hasten our departure. Here we were,
+      absolutely floating in the air, and it maybe believed that the feeling was
+      as delicious as it was unique. Using our hands as fins we could with the
+      slightest effort sail around at pleasure, resting in any position we chose
+      to take, truly a most luxurious experience.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;How shall we make our friends believe all this when we try to tell them
+      about it, Doctor?&rdquo; said I. &ldquo;The best way to make them believe it,&rdquo; he
+      replied, &ldquo;is to bring them up here and let them try it for themselves. I
+      propose to organize an expedition on our return and bring up a large
+      party. We could manage to land somewhere in this vicinity, I think,
+      instead of going up as far as you and I did. What a place this would be
+      for summer vacations! The moon is a fixture now; it cannot get away. I am
+      sure of that, for the law of gravitation will never release it. So we may
+      as well make what use of it we can, and these delightful sensations will
+      no doubt form the most important discovery that we shall ever make on this
+      dried-up and worn-out satellite. You know many people are willing to put
+      themselves to much inconvenience and to undergo many hardships for the
+      sake of a change from the monotony of home life. If we can induce them to
+      come up here for a few weeks, and if they can endure this rather erratic
+      climate, they will find change enough to break up the monotony for one
+      year, I think.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      After enjoying this rare exercise to our content, we began preparing for
+      the night which was now coming on. The doctor had reminded me of my
+      promise to return to our former position on the moon, and we agreed to set
+      out the next day. Having fastened our car securely to the ground, so that
+      we might not drift off toward the earth, we entered it and made ourselves
+      as comfortable as possible.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Our resting place was near the center of what seemed to be an immense
+      crater, and some time before morning we were roused by a violent shaking
+      of the ground beneath us, which startled us beyond expression.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;What&rsquo;s that?&rdquo; I exclaimed.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;That feels very much like a moon-quake,&rdquo; replied my companion.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      I was terribly frightened, but resolved to follow the doctor&rsquo;s example and
+      make light of what we could not help.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      So I said:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But I thought the lunar volcanoes were all dead ages ago. I hope we
+      haven&rsquo;t camped in the crater of one that is likely to go off again.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;My opinion is,&rdquo; answered the doctor, &ldquo;that there is still water inside
+      the moon which is gradually freezing. That operation would sometimes crack
+      the surface, and this has probably caused the quaking that we have felt.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      While we were talking the wind began to blow, and soon, although it was
+      long before time for the sun to rise, we suddenly emerged from darkness
+      into bright sunlight. We sprang up instinctively to look about us and try
+      to discover what this could mean, when what was our consternation to find
+      ourselves adrift!
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      There, in full view of our wondering eyes, was the whole, round earth,
+      hanging in space, and where were we? Then we began to realize gradually
+      that the trembling of the ground was the grating of the moon against the
+      earth as it left its resting place, and the wind was caused by our motion.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The novelty of the situation took away for a time the sense of fear, and I
+      exclaimed:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Another scientific certainty gone to smash! I thought you said the moon
+      could never get away from the earth. What are we going to do now?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Well,&rdquo; replied the doctor, &ldquo;this is certainly something I never dreamed
+      of in my philosophy. I didn&rsquo;t see how the moon could be drawn away from
+      the earth when once actually attached to it, but I suppose the sun and
+      planets all happen to be pulling in one direction just now and are proving
+      too much for the earth&rsquo;s attraction. But what concerns us more at this
+      time is covered by your question, &lsquo;What are we going to do now?&rsquo; And I
+      will answer that I think we will stick to the moon for a while. You can
+      see for yourself that we are held here much more firmly than when we were
+      disporting ourselves in the air yesterday, and the earth is now too far
+      away for us to throw ourselves and our balloon within its attraction.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      I knew by the feeling of increasing weight that what my companion said
+      must be true, but we could not then appreciate the dreadful nature of our
+      condition, so wrapped up were we in the grandeur of the object before our
+      eyes. To those who have never been on the moon in such circumstances it
+      will be impossible to adequately describe our feelings as we gazed upon
+      our late home and knew that we were fast drifting away from it.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      There the round globe hung, as I had often pictured it in my imagination&mdash;oceans
+      and continents, mountains, lakes, and rivers, all spread out before us&mdash;the
+      greatest object lesson ever seen by the eye of man. As we studied it,
+      recognizing feature after feature, lands and waters that we knew by their
+      familiar shape, the doctor broke our reverie with these words, evidently
+      with the endeavor to keep up my spirits:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;That looks as natural as a map, doesn&rsquo;t it? You have seen globes with
+      those divisions pictured on them, but there is the globe itself. If our
+      summer tourists could take in this experience also, it would make a
+      vacation worth having. Isn&rsquo;t it grand? I see you are thinking about our
+      personal peril, but I think I know men who would take the risk and put
+      themselves in our place for the sake of this magnificent view.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;If you know of any way to send for one of those friends, I wish you would
+      do so,&rdquo; I replied. &ldquo;I would willingly give him my place.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      It may be believed that we were all this time anxiously watching the
+      earth, and it did not lessen our anxiety to realize that we were traveling
+      very rapidly away from it. I had reached a point now where I did not place
+      much dependence upon the doctor&rsquo;s science, but to get some expression of
+      his thoughts I said to him:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Well, have you any opinion about our fate? Are we doomed to pass the
+      remainder of our lives circling around our dear old earth, looking upon
+      her face day by day but never to approach her again?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I think you have stated the case about as it is,&rdquo; said he, &ldquo;if, indeed,
+      this rate of speed does not carry us entirely beyond the earth&rsquo;s
+      attraction, out into illimitable space.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      The thought of such an additional catastrophe silenced me, especially as I
+      could not deny its possibility. Life on the moon, if we could only keep
+      the earth in sight even, seemed almost endurable now, beside the idea that
+      we might be cast out to shift for ourselves, without a tie save such as
+      the universal law of gravitation might find for us somewhere.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      It must not be imagined that our conversation was carried on with ease or
+      that we were half enjoying our novel situation. We were simply trying to
+      make the best of a very bad matter. Not long after we had started the wind
+      had taken away the balloon part of our air ship, and now threatened every
+      moment to tear the car from its moorings and end our unhappy career at
+      once. Besides this impending catastrophe, it was with the greatest
+      difficulty that we could get air enough to fill our lungs, but the cold
+      was so intense whenever our side of the moon was turned away from the sun
+      that we needed the severe labor on our condensers to keep us from
+      freezing.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Meantime, our speed increasing every hour, the planet that had once been
+      our home was growing smaller before our eyes. At length we were flying
+      through space at such a rate that we could not suppress our fears that the
+      terrible suggestion of the doctor&rsquo;s would be realized. We had both made a
+      mental calculation as to how large the earth ought to look from the moon
+      at its normal distance, and as it approached that size we could not hide
+      our anxiety from each other. Without a word from the doctor I could see by
+      his face that hope was fast leaving him, and as we were now going more
+      rapidly than ever I felt that we had nothing to do but accept our fate.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      In regard to such intensity of feeling at this stage of our experience, it
+      maybe objected that our condition was hopeless anyway, and it could make
+      no difference whether we remained within the earth&rsquo;s influence or not. But
+      in spite of our desperate situation we had some sentiment remaining. The
+      earth was the only home we had ever known, and I am not ashamed to say
+      that we did not like to lose sight of it; especially as there was not the
+      slightest possibility that we should ever see it again, unless, indeed,
+      our moon should turn into a comet with eccentric orbit, and so bring us
+      back at some future day&mdash;a very unlikely occurrence, as all will
+      admit who know anything about moons and comets.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Our speed did not lessen but rather increased as we gradually broke away
+      from the earth&rsquo;s attraction, and the dear old earth was fast becoming a
+      less significant object in our sky. If our situation was lonesome before,
+      it was now desolation itself.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Doctor,&rdquo; said I, when I could control my emotions enough to speak, &ldquo;where
+      now?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Well,&rdquo; he replied, with a grim attempt at a smile, &ldquo;my opinion is not
+      worth much in our present strange circumstances, but it seems to me we are
+      on our way either to the sun or one of the large planets.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      I did not reply, and we both soon found it wise to expend no unnecessary
+      breath in talking. The ether was now so thin that it took oceans of it,
+      literally, to make enough air to keep us alive.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Our provisions were nearly exhausted, our strength was failing, and I
+      really believe we would not have lived many days had not something
+      occurred to divert our minds and to relieve some of our physical
+      discomforts.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <hr />
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2HCH0004" id="link2HCH0004"> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      CHAPTER IV. AND ONE WOMAN.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      At the time we tied our car to the rocks, to prevent us from drifting away
+      from the earth, we did not anticipate that the fastenings would receive
+      any very severe strain, but now the velocity of the wind was such that
+      there was great danger of our breaking away. The moon was not a very
+      hospitable place, to be sure, as we had thus far found it, but still we
+      preferred it to the alternative of flying off into space in our glass car
+      and becoming a new species of meteor.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      And yet it seemed to be courting instant death to attempt to leave the car
+      and seek for other shelter. We could not decide which course to take. Both
+      were so full of peril that there seemed to be no possible safety in
+      either.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      As I review our situation now, and think of us spinning along on that
+      defunct world we knew not whither, with no ray of light to illumine the
+      darkness of our future or show us the least chance of escape from our
+      desperate plight, it is astonishing to me that we did not give up all hope
+      and lie down and die at once. It only shows what the human body can endure
+      and of what stuff our minds are made. I think it would not be making a
+      rash statement to say that no man ever found himself in a worse situation
+      and survived.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      But help was nearer than we supposed. From what we had seen of the moon we
+      could not have imagined a more unexpected thing than that which happened
+      to us then. Suddenly, above the roar of the wind and the thumping of our
+      car on the rocks, even above the tumult of our spirits, there came to us
+      the strains of more than earthly music. Whether it was from voice or
+      instrument we could not tell, and in its sweetness and power it was
+      absolutely indescribable. At first we did not try to discover its source
+      but were content to sit and quietly enjoy it, as it fell gently upon us,
+      pervading our whole being and so filling us with courage and strength that
+      we seemed to be transformed into new men.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Then, wondering if we could discover from whence the notes came, we turned
+      and looked about us, when there was revealed to us a vision of beauty
+      which filled and satisfied the sense of sight as completely as our ears
+      had been enchanted with the angelic music.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Not far from our car, with her flowing garments nearly torn from her in
+      the fierceness of the gale, was a young girl, stretching out her hands
+      imploringly toward us and pouring forth her voice in that exquisite song.
+      We soon discovered it was not for herself that she was anxious, but for
+      us; for when she observed that she had attracted our attention she smiled
+      and turned to go back the way she had come, beckoning us with hand and eye
+      to follow her, and still singing her sweet but unintelligible words.
+      Perhaps I flattered myself, but I thought she was looking at me more than
+      at my companion, and I began with great eagerness to unfasten the door of
+      the car.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Wait!&rdquo; cried the doctor. &ldquo;Where are you going?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      I could not stop an instant, but answered with feeling:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Going? I am going wherever she is going. I&rsquo;ll follow her to the end of
+      the moon if necessary, though the surface be everywhere as bleak as our
+      own north pole.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Well,&rdquo; he replied, &ldquo;if it is such a desperate case as that, I&rsquo;ll have to
+      go along to take care of you.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      I found that when such a woman beckons and such a voice calls there is but
+      one thing to do. The sirens were not to be mentioned in comparison. Twenty
+      thousand hurricanes could not have prevented me from attempting to follow
+      where she led as long as I had breath.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      We reached the ground in safety, and with the greatest difficulty made our
+      way in the footsteps of our guide, leaving all our possessions behind us,
+      to the doctor&rsquo;s murmured regret. And now the words of the singer seemed to
+      take on a joyous meaning, and we could almost distinguish her invitation
+      to follow her to a place where the wind did not blow and where our present
+      troubles would be over. She kept well in the lead but walked only as fast
+      as our strength would allow, looking back constantly to encourage us with
+      her smile and ravishing one heart at least with the melody of her song.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Presently we came to the edge of an immense crater, hundreds of feet deep
+      and as empty and cold as all the others we had seen on the moon. Instead
+      of going around this, our leader chose a narrow ravine and took us down
+      the steep side to the bottom of the crater. We supposed she did this just
+      to give us protection from the wind, and we were very much sheltered, but
+      she did not stop here. Entering one of the many fissures in the rocks, she
+      led us into a narrow passage whose floor descended so rapidly and whose
+      solid roof shut out the light so quickly that in ordinary circumstances we
+      would have hesitated about proceeding. But, although it was soon
+      absolutely dark, we kept on, guided by that marvelous voice, now our sole
+      inspiration.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Come, come, fear no harm,&rdquo; it seemed to say, and we were content to
+      follow blindly, even the doctor no longer objecting.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      {Illustration: &ldquo;POURING FORTH HER VOICE IN THAT EXQUISITE SONG."}
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      How many hours we proceeded in this way, going down, down, all the time,
+      toward the center of the globe, I have no means of telling; but I
+      distinctly remember that we began, after a time, to find, to our great
+      joy, that the air was becoming denser and we could breathe quite freely.
+      This gave us needed strength and justified the faith with which our
+      mysterious deliverer had filled us.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      At length we were gladdened by a glimmer of light ahead of us, which
+      increased until our path was all illumined with a beautiful soft haze.
+      Soon the way broadened and grew still brighter, and then we were led forth
+      into an open street, which seemed to be part of a small village. There
+      were but few houses, and even these, although they showed signs of a
+      former grandeur, were sadly in need of care. Not a creature of any kind
+      was stirring, and in our hasty review the whole place looked as if it
+      might have been deserted by its inhabitants for a hundred years. There was
+      one spot, however, so retired as to be entirely hidden from our view at
+      first, which had anything but a deserted appearance. The house was small,
+      but it was a perfect bower of beauty, half-concealed with a mass of
+      flowers and vines. Here our journey ended, for our guide led us to the
+      door and, entering, turned and invited us to follow her.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The doctor and I were tired enough to accept with eagerness her
+      hospitality, and soon we were all seated in a pleasant room, which was
+      filled with the evidences of a refined taste. Now we had a much better
+      opportunity to observe the resplendent beauty of our new friend, and we
+      found, also, that her manners were as captivating as her other personal
+      qualities. At intervals, all through our long walk, her song had ceased
+      and we expected she would make some attempt to speak to us; but being
+      disappointed in this, it struck me after we had entered the house that I
+      ought to end the embarrassment by addressing her. The circumstances of our
+      meeting were peculiar, to say the least, and, of all the thousand things I
+      might have appropriately said, nothing could have been more meaningless or
+      have better shown the vacant condition of my mind than the words I chose.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;It&rsquo;s a fine day,&rdquo; I said, looking square in her eyes and trying to speak
+      pleasantly.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      In answer she gave me a smile which almost deprived me of what little wit
+      remained, and at the same time emitted one exquisite note.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      I was now at the end of my resources. I had always thought I could talk on
+      ordinary topics as well as the average man, but in the presence of this
+      girl, with everything in the world unsaid, I could not think of one word
+      to say. The doctor soon saw my predicament and hastened to assist me, and
+      the remark which he selected shows again his wonderful self-possession in
+      the midst of overwhelming difficulties. He waved his hand gently toward me
+      to attract her attention and said:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;My friend and I are from the United States and have come to make you a
+      visit. This is your home, I suppose, away down here in the middle of the
+      moon? It is very kind of you to bring us here. I hope you will excuse me
+      for my rudeness, but what time do you have supper?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      This time three little notes of the same quality as before and then a
+      little trill, and the whole accompanied by a smile so sweet that I
+      suddenly began to wish the doctor had been blown off the top of the moon.
+      It was a wicked thought and I put it away from me as quickly as possible,
+      being assisted by the recollection that the doctor had a charming wife
+      already, who was no doubt thinking of him at this very moment.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      We were not making much progress in opening conversation, but our charming
+      hostess seemed to understand either the doctor&rsquo;s words or his looks, for,
+      stepping into another room, she called us presently to sit down to a table
+      well supplied with plain but substantial food. She soon made us feel quite
+      at home, just by her easy and agreeable ways. We did not once hear her
+      voice in ordinary speech, and at length we began to suspect, what we
+      afterward learned to be true, that she talked as the birds talk, only in
+      song. Whether she used her language or ours she would always sing or chant
+      her words, and every expression was perfect in rhythm and melody.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The doctor and I hesitated to say much to each other, out of deference to
+      the feelings of this fair lunarian, but he took occasion to remark to me
+      quietly that as she could not tell us her name just yet he proposed to
+      call her Mona {Footnote: <i>Mona</i> is old Saxon for <i>moon</i>.} for
+      the present. I assented easily, as it made little difference to me what we
+      called her, if she would only remain with us.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      It happened that the doctor, who knew everything, was well acquainted with
+      dactylology and the latest sign language, used in the instruction of deaf
+      mutes, and as it seemed likely that our stay in our present abode might be
+      a prolonged one, he told me he would try to teach Mona to converse with
+      us. I could not object, although I secretly wished I could have taken the
+      place of instructor. But it soon occurred to me that I must be a fellow
+      pupil, if we were all to talk in that way; and so, with this bond of
+      sympathy established between us, Mona and I began our lessons.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      During the closing years of the century great progress had been made, on
+      the earth, in the method of talking by arbitrary signs and motions. The
+      movements of the body and limbs and the great variety of facial
+      expressions were all so well adapted to the ideas to be represented that
+      it was comparatively easy for an intelligent person to learn to make known
+      many of his thoughts. As our studies progressed day after day it began to
+      dawn on me that Mona, in spite of the disadvantage of not knowing our
+      spoken language, was learning faster than I was. I was somewhat chagrined
+      at this at first, but it finally turned out to my advantage, for the
+      doctor announced one day that Mona had acquired all he knew and could
+      thenceforth teach me if I pleased. Here was a bond of sympathy that I had
+      not looked for, but I was glad enough to avail myself of it, and delighted
+      to find that Mona was also pleased with the plan. With her for a teacher
+      it did not take me long to finish. Her graceful movements made poetry of
+      the language, and the web she was weaving around my heart was strengthened
+      every hour.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      As Mona gradually learned to express herself to our comprehension we began
+      to ask her questions about herself and her history. The doctor, being less
+      under the spell of her charms than I was, showed a greater curiosity, and
+      one of the first things he asked was:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;When do you expect the other members of your family home?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      Mona was at first puzzled, but saw his meaning as soon as the motions were
+      repeated, and answered with a few simple signs:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I have no friends to come home. I am alone.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      The expression we put into our faces told her of our sorrow and sympathy
+      better than any words, and the doctor continued:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But these other houses! Surely they are not all empty?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Yes,&rdquo; she replied, &ldquo;their inmates are all gone. I am the only inhabitant
+      left.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      And then she told us from time to time that there were no other villages
+      anywhere in the moon and that she was absolutely the last of her race. Our
+      method of conversation was not free enough to allow her to tell us how she
+      had discovered the truth of this astounding information, and there were a
+      thousand other questions for whose answers we were obliged to wait, but
+      not forever.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The doctor and I talked freely to each other now, and playfully said a
+      great many things to Mona, who, though she did not understand them,
+      laughed with us and gave us much pleasure with her easy, unembarrassed
+      manner and piquant ways. And she not only jabbered away with hands and
+      face in the manner we had taught her, but she did not cease also to make
+      life bright for us by repaying us in our own coin and talking to us in her
+      natural, delicious way. With such music in the house life could not be
+      dull.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      My infatuation increased as the days went by, and I began to seek every
+      possible occasion to be alone with Mona. I often encouraged the doctor to
+      go out and learn what he could of our surroundings, excusing myself from
+      bearing him company on the ground that I did not think it safe to leave
+      Mona alone. Or if Mona wanted to go out I would suggest to the doctor that
+      I needed the exercise also, and that he really ought to be writing down
+      our experiences while he had leisure, as there was no telling how soon the
+      moon would land us somewhere.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      I did not then know whether the doctor saw through my designs or not. I
+      thought not, for I did not suppose he was ever so deeply in love as I was.
+      But if he did he was good enough to take my little hints and say nothing.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      On these occasions, whether Mona and I remained in the house or walked
+      abroad, I wasted no time in asking her more questions about the moon or
+      such trivial matters, but spent all my efforts in trying to establish
+      closer personal relations between us. While she was exceedingly pleasant
+      and agreeable, she did not seem to understand my feeling exactly, although
+      I tried in every way to show her my heart. She was not coquettish, but
+      perfectly unaffected, and simply did not realize my meaning. For once the
+      sign language did not prove adequate; and so, as my feelings would not be
+      controlled, I was fain to resort to my natural tongue, and poured forth my
+      love to my own satisfaction if not to her comprehension. I did not stint
+      the words, astonishing myself at the fullness of my vocabulary, and hoping
+      that the fervor of my manner and the passion exhibited in my voice would
+      make the right impression on my companion.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Day after day, as opportunity offered, I returned to the same theme. Mona
+      was sympathetic in her own charming way, but apparently not affected in
+      the manner I was looking for. And still, &ldquo;I love you, I love you,&rdquo; was
+      repeated in her ears a thousand times. The fact that she did not
+      understand the words made me all the more voluble, and I lavished my
+      affectionate terms upon her without restraint.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      One day, after this had been going on for some time, the doctor came in
+      from a walk and found us together as usual. He had a rare blossom in his
+      hand, and stepping to Mona&rsquo;s side he offered it to her with some
+      gallantry. She accepted it with a beaming countenance which set my heart
+      to thumping, and then she burst forth in a strain so sweet that it
+      thrilled my whole being and roused in me again that jealous fear that Mona
+      was learning to care more for the doctor than for me. But how shall I
+      describe my emotions when she suddenly blended syllables of our language
+      with the accents of her song, and, still looking into the doctor&rsquo;s eyes,
+      closed her entrancing melody with the burning words, &ldquo;I love you&rdquo;?
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      I wonder how other men have borne such a shock as that. It seemed to me
+      that by simply living during the next few minutes I was proving myself
+      stronger than others. And I was able to think, too. It occurred to me that
+      perhaps Mona was merely a parrot, repeating, with no perception of their
+      meaning, words which she had so often heard from me. But this idea passed
+      swiftly away when I remembered the warmth of her expression and the ardor
+      of her manner, both of which, alas, she had also learned from me.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      As I recovered somewhat from the effects of the blow I found Mona&rsquo;s eyes
+      were fixed on me, and she looked so innocent, so entirely unconscious of
+      wrong, that if I had any anger in my heart it melted away and left me more
+      her slave than ever. There was something in her behavior which I could not
+      comprehend, and it was evident that she had not yet acquired any
+      particular fondness for me, but these were not sufficient reasons to make
+      me cease to care for her. My love was too strong to give her up, even
+      after I had just heard her declare, in such a passionate way, her love for
+      another. These thoughts passed through my mind as she beamed upon me in
+      her radiant beauty, smiling as sweetly as ever, as if to encourage me
+      still to live and hope.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      But how did the doctor receive this remarkable love-song? Like the
+      philosopher he was. Being astonished beyond measure at what he had heard,
+      he sat and pondered the subject for some minutes. What chiefly interested
+      him was not the personal element in Mona&rsquo;s words, which was so vital a
+      point to me, but the fact that she could make use of any words of our
+      language. The possibilities which this fact opened up to him were of the
+      greatest moment. If Mona could learn to talk freely she would be able to
+      give us much information that would be of great scientific value. After he
+      had pursued these thoughts a while it suddenly struck him that the
+      expression she had used was a singular one to begin with, and he turned to
+      me and laughingly said:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;You must have taught her those words. I did not.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I shall have to acknowledge it,&rdquo; I replied, &ldquo;but I assure you I did not
+      influence her to make such use of them.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;No, I suppose not; but that question is of small account beside the
+      knowledge that Mona has begun to learn our speech. Now let us give all our
+      attention to her instruction.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      We did so from that hour, the doctor from high motives of philosophy and
+      philanthropy, while I was actuated by more selfish reasons. Although I had
+      learned that I had been too hasty in my attempt to gain Mona&rsquo;s affections
+      I did not despair of success. I should have to take time and approach the
+      citadel of her untutored heart with more caution. In the pleasant task of
+      teaching her the intricacies of the English language I anticipated many
+      delightful opportunities of leading her into the Elysian fields of
+      romance. If she could learn to understand fully my intense feeling for her
+      I had no doubt she would return my passion. With such a hopeful spirit
+      does the love god inspire his happy victims.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      In order to assist in the realization of these rosy fore-thoughts, I
+      suggested to the doctor that each of us should take his turn in Mona&rsquo;s
+      instruction, so as to make it as easy and informal for her as possible. He
+      had no objections to make, and we began a task which proved to be much
+      simpler than we had imagined. Mona had heard us talk so much that she had
+      half-learned a great many words and expressions, and her remarkable
+      quickness of intellect helped her to pick up their meaning rapidly as soon
+      as we gave her systematic aid. Hence it was not long before she began to
+      converse with considerable freedom.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      From the first the doctor and I had been curious to know if she would give
+      up the musical tone and simply talk as we did, and we were pleasantly
+      surprised to find that her song was not interrupted by the form of words
+      she used. Whatever the phrase she wanted to employ she turned it into
+      verse on the instant and chanted it forth in perfect melody. So
+      spontaneous was every expression that her very thoughts seemed to be
+      framed in harmony. Her voice was not obtrusive nor monotonous and
+      generally not loud, but was always well adapted to the sense of what she
+      was singing. The tones mostly used in conversation were low and sweet,
+      like rippling water, but these were constantly varied by the introduction
+      of notes of greater power and range.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      To have such use made of our rugged speech was a revelation to us, and
+      words, as we employ them, are inadequate to express our enjoyment of
+      Mona&rsquo;s song, when to its former beauty was added the clear enunciation of
+      language that we could understand.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      It was through this rare medium that the doctor and I learned, from day to
+      day, something of the history of Mona&rsquo;s race. The surface of the moon had
+      once been peopled, as we supposed, but as the day of decay and death
+      approached the outside of the globe became too inhospitable to longer
+      support life. The interior had cooled and contracted, and as the solid
+      crust was rigid enough to keep its place, great, sublunar caverns had been
+      formed. Into these rushed the water and the atmosphere, accompanied by the
+      few remaining inhabitants. The conditions were not favorable, in such
+      places, to the continuation of the race, although their advanced knowledge
+      in every direction prevented them from melting away suddenly.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Settlements had been formed in many different sections of the moon, and
+      interior communication was established between them. As the people
+      gradually passed away, those who remained naturally drew nearer together
+      until at last the remnant of the population of the globe were all gathered
+      in the little village where we were now living. Here the process still
+      went on, and year after year saw a constantly diminishing number. A few
+      years before our arrival Mona&rsquo;s last companion, a girl of her own age, had
+      died, and ever since then this tuneful creature, possessed of the most
+      sunny disposition we had ever known, had lived alone, with the knowledge
+      that there was not another living being in all the moon.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;So you see,&rdquo; she sang, &ldquo;I was as glad to find you as you were to hear
+      me.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But,&rdquo; asked the doctor, &ldquo;how did you know we were out there, nearly ready
+      to be blown off into space?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I didn&rsquo;t know it till I saw you. I went out to try to discover what was
+      the matter with my old world. For some time I had had the queerest
+      sensations imaginable. I was accustomed to being out of doors a great
+      deal, and I first began to notice that I could walk and run more easily
+      than before. I was becoming rather sprightly for one who was so soon to
+      pass off this deserted stage. Then everything I took up seemed to be
+      growing marvelously light, and I began to have a feeling that I must hold
+      on to all my movable possessions, to keep them from getting away. After
+      this unaccountable state of things had existed for a while, there came,
+      one day, a terrible shock, which threatened to crack the moon&rsquo;s skull and
+      rattle its fragments down upon my head. This was followed at intervals by
+      similar or lighter shocks, and it was all so exceedingly unusual that I
+      became very curious to know what was happening. Then all was quiet for
+      many days, but when at length the quakings began again my natural instinct
+      of self-preservation told me I ought not to take the risk of another such
+      siege, and so I started to make my way to the surface by a well-known
+      path. The trouble did not continue as I feared, but I kept on, fortunately
+      for you as well as for myself, and found the outside world too
+      uncomfortable a place for any of us to remain in longer than necessary.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      This halting prose represents the meaning of what Mona said, but it gives
+      a feeble idea of the beauty of her poetic expressions, chanted in
+      melodious phrase and in ever-changing, ever-joyous tune.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      We replied by explaining to her what had happened to her disjointed world,
+      expressing our gratitude also for her kindness in bringing us to her
+      sheltered home.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <hr />
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2HCH0005" id="link2HCH0005"> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      CHAPTER V. OUR INTRODUCTION TO MARS.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      Ever since the doctor had been inside of the moon he had not ceased to
+      regret that we had left all our goods in the car of our balloon. He
+      mourned the loss of the instruments and other apparatus which had cost him
+      so much care, and then there were our official papers. Our introduction to
+      Mona had been rather too informal, and we thought we might stand better
+      with her if we could show her our credentials, though, to be sure, she
+      could not read them.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Several times the doctor proposed to me that we should go out and bring in
+      what we could carry if, perchance, we should find the wind had left us
+      anything. But I had my own reasons for preferring to remain where we were.
+      I was happy and was expecting every day to be happier still, and so I put
+      the doctor off by reminding him that the weather was very bad outside and
+      that we had been glad enough to get in with our lives.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      I think he would have agreed with me and would have been contented to stay
+      if the question had been left entirely to ourselves. But Mona heard us
+      talking it over one day and said we could go without much risk if we cared
+      to try it, and she would go with us to take care of us.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Although it would be difficult to tell how Mona could help us when we were
+      outside, this idea sounded so assuring that the doctor determined to make
+      the attempt. I was obliged to acquiesce, fearing, in my ignorance of all
+      that was to happen to us, that the trip would keep me too much from Mona&rsquo;s
+      side.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      After due preparation we started, and reached the upper end of the long
+      passage without incident. But as we emerged we noticed that the light had
+      a peculiar tinge of red, quite different from its usual tone. Meditating
+      on this phenomenon, and speaking to each other as we could find breath, we
+      ascended the side of the crater, when there burst upon our view a
+      magnificent world, apparently but a little way off. Its ruddy face showed
+      us plainly what had caused the red light, and the doctor made haste to
+      exclaim:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Aha! let me introduce you to the planet Mars.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Yes,&rdquo; I replied, &ldquo;and we may become too well acquainted before a great
+      while if our rapid flight is not checked.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      We soon found our car just as we had left it, and were glad to take
+      advantage of its shelter. In the new danger which loomed up before us so
+      threateningly, we all agreed that it would be rash to return into the
+      interior of the moon, to be crushed to death in the shock of the impending
+      collision; and yet, in remaining where we were, the doctor and I felt that
+      no reputable insurance company would call our lives a very good risk.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      But now was our opportunity to witness some of the depths of Mona&rsquo;s
+      character. What was there in her nature so entirely different from
+      anything we had ever known? We had seen persons of cheerful disposition
+      before, and had heard of many exhibitions of courage and indifference to
+      danger, but here we had the very personification of fearlessness and
+      contentment. She talked freely of our situation and of what was likely to
+      happen, but appeared to be as light-hearted as ever, and her song was just
+      as cheerful as it had been in her quiet home. When we asked her if she
+      were not afraid, she replied that there was no such word in her language
+      and she could not appreciate its meaning.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Fear,&rdquo; said the doctor, &ldquo;is a feeling excited by the apprehension of
+      danger.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I think I know about the danger we are in,&rdquo; she answered, &ldquo;but I have not
+      the feeling you are trying to describe. When I was alone in my underground
+      village and thought the roof was about to fall down and bury me there, I
+      had no fear, as you say. I know that whatever has come to me or to any of
+      my race has always been for our good, and I am sure it will be so in the
+      future. I have but a short time to remain as the sole inhabitant of this
+      now useless globe, and the manner of my taking off is not of the slightest
+      moment. This old world&rsquo;s day is now passed, and I realize in that fact the
+      reason for its unseemly behavior, first knocking its toughened crust so
+      rudely against the earth and then coquetting in this manner with Mars. It
+      certainly no longer shows any respect for the race it has nourished, and
+      hence I see that my day, too, will soon be over. Whatever may be your fate
+      you will doubtless see no more of me after this excursion is ended.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      In the light of history this seemed extremely probable, and yet Mona was
+      not half as concerned about it as I was. I thought she ought to have shown
+      more anxiety about her future for my sake if not for her own, and I
+      ventured to say, although in a rather doleful tone:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I hope, Mona, if the doctor and I are freed from this peril that you will
+      escape with us. If I thought there was no hope of that, I am sure I should
+      propose that we return at once to the middle of the moon and be buried
+      together.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      She laughed aloud as she sang out in joyous notes:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Your mournful voice, my ardent friend, makes me think you would not be
+      very happy with the last alternative. But cheer up, we will all stand by
+      each other to the last.&rdquo; It was in her abounding good nature and in her
+      faculty for inspiring us with her own hopeful disposition that we found
+      Mona fulfilling her promise to take care of us.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      But now our attention could not be diverted from the planet which was
+      rapidly growing before our eyes. As we approached nearer and nearer every
+      minute, flying at such a terrific rate and aimed, apparently, for a direct
+      collision, it may be imagined that the doctor and I, in spite of Mona&rsquo;s
+      presence, began to be exceedingly anxious lest our journey and our lives
+      should meet an abrupt and common end.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Unless such excursions as ours become more frequent in the future, it will
+      probably always remain a mystery how this one came to a close. I can only
+      relate our experience during the time that we retained our consciousness,
+      and leave the imagination to picture the rest. As we entered the
+      atmosphere of the planet, the rush of air increased till it seemed as if a
+      hundred Niagaras were sounding in our ears. I remember having a dim
+      feeling of satisfaction in the belief that such a violent contact with the
+      atmosphere must impede the moon&rsquo;s progress, and offer us some chance of
+      landing in safety. Then I was bereft of all sense, and when I regained
+      consciousness I was lying in the bottom of our car in perfect quiet and
+      apparently unharmed.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      I called aloud for the doctor, but no voice replied. Rising, I looked
+      about me and found I was afloat on a ruddy sea, alone, as far as my senses
+      could inform me, alone in a new world. Such a sensation of homesickness
+      came over me, such a longing for human fellowship, that our former
+      lonesome condition on the moon seemed like a paradise compared to my
+      present wretchedness.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      So this was Mars, which we had studied with our telescopes and about whose
+      condition and history we had so often speculated. And now, as I leaned my
+      elbows on the edge of the car and gazed off over the deep, I wondered,
+      with more interest than I had ever before possessed, if the world I had
+      discovered were inhabited. Perhaps because it was such a vital question
+      with me, my naturally hopeful disposition began to find reasons for a
+      cheerful view. There were certainly favorable evidences all about me. I
+      was breathing an atmosphere evidently made for lungs like mine. The air
+      was soft and pleasant, and though I was drenched with water by my fall I
+      was not uncomfortable. I tasted the water and, oh! joyful reminder of
+      home, it was salt. The sun shed a beautiful light around me, and as I
+      glanced upward to see how bright and cheerful the sky was, my reverie was
+      suddenly broken off, for directly over my head, poised as quietly as if it
+      had always been there, was our old moon. It seemed but a few miles away
+      and I gazed at it with mixed feelings, with thankfulness that I had
+      escaped from its inhospitable surface with my life, and with scorn for its
+      present behavior. For there it was, apparently perfectly at home and ready
+      to bear the torch for Mars as faithfully as it always had for the earth,
+      its rightful mistress.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Inconstancy,&rdquo; I cried, &ldquo;thy name is Luna.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      {Illustration: THORWALD DISCOVERS ONE OF THE EARTH-DWELLERS.}
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      When the novelty of this sensational discovery was gone, my mind returned
+      to the contemplation of myself, and my situation seemed to me so unique as
+      to remove some of the natural feeling of fear. When one is shipwrecked in
+      the ordinary way his anxiety is caused by the uncertainty that anyone will
+      come to his rescue; while in my case I did not even know there was anyone
+      to come. But when I looked up at the moon and remembered its erratic
+      climate and our wild, unearthly journey, I could not suppress a feeling of
+      satisfaction with my changed condition. If the doctor had only been with
+      me we would have been able to extract considerable comfort from our
+      surroundings. But, as it was, I was very lonesome, and whatever
+      consolation I got from my reasoning about the planet&rsquo;s habitability was
+      increased a thousand fold by seeing a speck upon the horizon, which I
+      hoped might prove to be a sail. I watched it with intense interest, and
+      was not disappointed. I will not try to describe my feelings as this ship
+      of Mars approached me, while I sat wondering what manner of men I should
+      see. The first thing that struck me was the enormous size of the craft,
+      and as it drew near I could see that it was manned by beings
+      proportionately large. I now began to fear I should be run down, but soon
+      I noticed one of the passengers or crew who seemed to be looking at me
+      through a glass. In a little while the vessel slowed up, and a boat was
+      put off in which a number of giants, including the man with the glass,
+      rowed toward me. When they had nearly reached me I heard the latter say to
+      the others:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Yes, this is surely the little fellow we are searching for.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      I could not imagine what he meant by this, although it occurred to me that
+      it was a pleasant thing to have him speak good, plain English; but the
+      other circumstances were so entirely novel that, instead of opening the
+      conversation with some conventional remark, like a sensible person, I
+      burst out with:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But Proctor says Mars has passed its life-bearing period.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      I hardly knew what I said, but it proved that they were just the words to
+      commend me to my new friend, for as he reached over and lifted me into the
+      boat he said:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Why, how did you know Proctor? You must have misunderstood him, for he
+      would never say such a thing as that.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      While I was puzzling over this strange speech he continued:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I think we have some one in the ship whom you will be glad to see.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      I began to fear I should not get on very well in Mars if all the
+      inhabitants talked in such riddles, but I said, as politely as I could:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I am sure I need not wait to get to the ship to be pleased. I am
+      delighted to see you and your companions here.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      While we were returning to the vessel I gave Thorwald, for such I found to
+      be his name, a brief account of our journey on the moon and of my
+      mysterious arrival on their planet. I expatiated on the merits of the
+      doctor, and told Thorwald that he was probably still on the moon or else
+      at the bottom of their ocean.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      I was thinking that Thorwald did not show much sympathy with me, when, our
+      boat having nearly reached the ship&rsquo;s side, I looked up and saw the doctor
+      himself standing on the deck, a pigmy among giants. I was soon by his
+      side, and we embraced before our new-found friends without a blush.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Where&rsquo;s Mona?&rdquo; were the first words he said.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Mona!&rdquo; I replied. &ldquo;Who&rsquo;s Mona?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Who&rsquo;s Mona?&rdquo; he returned. &ldquo;Well, you have recovered pretty rapidly.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      I now discovered that, although I had found the body of my friend, the
+      best part of him was missing. In the fall from the moon he had evidently
+      lost his wits. I thought I would not let him know too suddenly what was
+      the matter, and so I merely said:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Yes, I went into the water, but was not much hurt. When I came to my
+      senses I found myself in our car still. Tell me how you escaped.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Oh, I happened to fall near this ship, fortunately, and they picked me
+      up, and then, at my request, they set out to search for you and Mona.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Well,&rdquo; said I, &ldquo;you found me, and I am very thankful for it, but Mona I
+      fear you will never see.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;What was the last you saw of her?&rdquo; he asked.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      I had great difficulty in keeping myself from laughing in the doctor&rsquo;s
+      face at his odd fancy, but the thought came to me with some force that I
+      must not let his mental condition become known to the men of Mars around
+      us; and so, instead of replying to his question, I turned to Thorwald and
+      asked him if he could tell us how the moon had landed us so easily on
+      their planet.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      In answer he gave it as his opinion that as the moon came rushing toward
+      them so swiftly it compressed the air in its path to such a degree that it
+      acted as a cushion, preventing a collision and sending the moon bounding
+      back over the path by which it had come. Probably at the moment when it
+      was nearest the surface, we had fallen off into the ocean. The rebound, he
+      supposed, was not sufficient to carry it beyond the attraction of the
+      planet, and so it poised itself and began to make a revolution around Mars
+      in its old-fashioned way.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Thorwald told us we had taken the best possible time to visit them, for
+      Mars had not been so near the earth before in a great while.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Our new acquaintances were from nine to ten feet tall and proportionately
+      large every other way, so that they appeared quite monstrous to us. But
+      they were agile and even graceful in their movements, while in manner they
+      were so gentle and pleasing that we recognized at once their high culture.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The vessel was soon under way and made rapid progress, and though our
+      voyage was not very long, it proved to be an exceedingly profitable one to
+      the doctor and me, for we learned more, through conversation with our new
+      friends, about the history and condition of Mars than we could have gained
+      in any other way. The men were all kind to us and seemed to be all equally
+      able to impart information, but most of our intercourse was with Thorwald.
+      He gave us much of his time, at intervals as he could be spared from work,
+      for every man helped at the service of the ship. There seemed to be no
+      system of leadership, but all appeared to know what was to be done, and
+      did it without orders and without clashing.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      As we entered into conversation about the earth and Mars, I was surprised
+      to find the doctor taking his full share in it with his usual
+      intelligence. His questions and answers were all so pertinent that I
+      should have supposed his mind was entirely unaffected, had I not known to
+      the contrary. When I saw he could hold his own so well, I determined to
+      take the first opportunity when we were alone to ask him again who Mona
+      was.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <hr />
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2HCH0006" id="link2HCH0006"> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      CHAPTER VI. A REMARKABLE PEOPLE.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      The conversation with our new friends was not all on one side, for we had
+      many questions to answer about the earth, the Martian mind showing as
+      great a thirst for knowledge as ours. One of the first things Thorwald
+      said after we had settled down to a good talk was:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But, Doctor, your little head is so full of thought that it seems to me
+      you ought not to have been surprised to find us so large here. You knew
+      before you came that Mars is much smaller than the earth and, therefore,
+      the attraction of gravitation being less, that everything can grow more
+      easily. Things may as well be one size as another if only they are well
+      adapted to each other, and we would never have known we were large or that
+      you were small had we not been brought together. In the sight of Him who
+      made both the earth and Mars, and fashioned one for you and the other for
+      us, we are neither great nor small. In fact, size is never absolute but
+      only relative.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;That is very clear to us now,&rdquo; said the doctor, &ldquo;and I promise not to be
+      surprised again, even when I walk the streets of your cities and see you
+      in your houses.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Then, Doctor,&rdquo; said I, &ldquo;if we had found inhabitants on the moon what
+      great folks they must have seemed to us.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      This was an exceedingly foolish remark for me to make, for it resulted in
+      the doctor&rsquo;s almost betraying his condition to our friends.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Of course Thorwald was interested in what I said, and eagerly inquired:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;So you found no inhabitants in the moon?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Just one,&rdquo; spoke up the doctor quickly.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;What! you found one and left him there?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;It was a woman,&rdquo; said the doctor.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      This talk had been so rapid that I had not had a chance to interfere, but
+      I saw that I must stop it now for the doctor&rsquo;s sake. When I could see him
+      alone I could tell him his memory was playing him a trick and he must
+      avoid that subject. So, before Thorwald could speak again, I said:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Let me suggest, Thorwald, that we let the moon rest till we have heard
+      more of Mars, which I am sure is of greater importance. We have told you
+      many things in regard to our planet, and are willing to answer all the
+      questions you may please to ask from time to time, but now we would like
+      to listen a while.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Yes,&rdquo; said the doctor, &ldquo;we started on this expedition to add to our
+      scientific knowledge, and we seem in a fair way to accomplish our purpose;
+      so that, if you will find a way to send us back to the earth some time, I
+      think our friends will admit that we have been successful. But first we
+      want to learn all we can about this wonderful world. How long has your
+      race existed? Our astronomers tell us Mars is too old to be inhabited,
+      and, considering some of my own recent experiences in finding my science
+      unreliable, it rather consoles me to discover that they are mistaken.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;They are right,&rdquo; Thorwald answered, &ldquo;in believing that Mars is very old,
+      and so our race is nearing its maturity. It is impossible to judge
+      accurately of the age of the planet itself, but we know it is exceedingly
+      old from the evidences of changes that have taken place on its surface.
+      Neither can we tell when our race was born, though we have legends and
+      traditions dating back fifty thousand years, and authentic history for
+      nearly half that time.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      The doctor and myself now began to realize that we had indeed something to
+      learn from these people, and I remarked:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;These figures astonish us, Thorwald, and you can hardly understand how
+      interested we are. But please continue. From what little I have seen I
+      should think you are much farther advanced in everyway than the
+      inhabitants of the earth.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;We believe,&rdquo; replied the Martian, &ldquo;that our planet is much older than the
+      earth, and if we are right in that it is but natural that our civilization
+      should be older also. If the tendency of mind is toward perfection, if in
+      your experience you have found that, in the main, men look upward more
+      than downward, what would you expect to find in a world so beautiful as
+      this and where life has existed so long? From what we know of our own
+      history and from what we have learned of the worlds around us, we believe
+      the life-bearing period of Mars has long since passed its middle point,
+      and that both our planet and our race have passed through convulsions and
+      changes to which other worlds, perhaps the earth, are now subjected.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      This appeared so reasonable that I said to him:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;We must believe that Mars is an afternoon planet. And now we want to hear
+      whatever you may choose to tell us about your civilization.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;That is a broad subject,&rdquo; replied Thorwald, &ldquo;but it is something I like
+      to talk about. If I judge rightly of what you have already told me of the
+      earth and its people, I think we were in just about your situation ages
+      ago and that we have merely matured. That is, the causes now at work on
+      the earth are having in us their legitimate effect. These processes are
+      slow but sure. To the Infinite time is of no more importance in itself
+      than is size.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I know of no better topic to begin with,&rdquo; continued Thorwald, &ldquo;than the
+      matter of government. You wondered at the peculiar discipline on board
+      this ship. It is but a type of what you will find on land. We have no
+      government in its strict sense, for there is no one that needs governing.
+      We have organization for mutual help in many ways, but no rulers nor
+      legislators. The only government is that of the family. Here character is
+      formed so that when the children go forth into the world no one desires to
+      wrong his neighbor. We know from our histories of all the struggles our
+      ancestors passed through before the days of universal peace and
+      brotherhood. Now we go and come as we please, with no fear of harm. We are
+      all one nation because all national boundaries have been obliterated, and
+      we have a common language. There are no laws of compulsion or restraint,
+      for all do by instinct what is best for themselves and their neighbors.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Oh, happy Mars!&rdquo; here broke in the usually prosaic doctor. &ldquo;That sounds
+      like a story. And yet what is it,&rdquo; he continued, addressing me, &ldquo;but the
+      effect of perfect obedience to our golden rule? If men should really learn
+      to do to others as they would have others do to them, what a
+      transformation it would accomplish.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;So that is what you call the golden rule, is it?&rdquo; asked Thorwald. &ldquo;And
+      are you all trying to live by it?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Well,&rdquo; I replied, &ldquo;that is what many of us profess to be doing, but I
+      must say we fall far, very far short of the mark. I do not know a single
+      inhabitant of the earth, with the possible exception of my companion here,
+      who fully obeys that command.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      The doctor&rsquo;s smile was not lost on Thorwald, who replied:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;It was rather too bad of you to bring so far away from the earth the only
+      good man the planet contained; but I am glad to know the golden rule, as
+      you may well call it, has been given to men. We have had the same here,
+      and, oh! if I could make you realize something of the struggle our race
+      has had in working it into life and practice, you would gain some hope for
+      the people of the earth. I mean, the result of this struggle would give
+      you hope, for I am not ashamed to say that we are now living up to the
+      full requirements of this law, and if you should spend the remainder of
+      your lives with us I am sure you would not find my statement untrue. It is
+      only by actually loving our neighbors as ourselves that we are able to
+      live as we do. The law of love has replaced the law of force. It is well
+      for you to understand this at the beginning, for it is the secret of our
+      wonderful success in all the higher forms of civilization.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;It must have helped you greatly,&rdquo; said I, &ldquo;in the matter of which you
+      have just been speaking, that of government.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Yes, it has,&rdquo; he replied. &ldquo;In our histories we have full accounts of the
+      long course of events when we were divided into hundreds of nations, each
+      with its own pride and ambition, and each striving to build up itself upon
+      the misfortunes or the ruins of its neighbors. You can perhaps imagine
+      what a mass of material we have for reading and study.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;We can,&rdquo; spoke up the student doctor, &ldquo;and it fairly makes my mouth
+      water. But tell us briefly, Thorwald, how you ever passed from those
+      troublous times to the blissful state in which we now find you.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;The transition was exceedingly slow; it seemed, in fact, impossible that
+      such a change could ever be effected. But it began with the establishment
+      of universal peace, which was demanded by the growing spirit of brotherly
+      love, and assisted by commercial reciprocity and a world language.
+      Gradually national boundaries were found to be only an annoyance, and in
+      time&mdash;a long time, of course&mdash;we became one nation and finally
+      no nation. For now no one exercises any authority over his neighbors,
+      since the need for all artificial distinctions has long since passed
+      away.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Then,&rdquo; said I, &ldquo;you have no doubt lost all fear and anxiety over the
+      conflicting interests of capital and labor.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Yes,&rdquo; replied Thorwald, &ldquo;for we have no such distinctions in society as
+      rich and poor, workingmen and capitalists. We all work as we please, but
+      there is so little to do that no one is burdened, and one cannot be richer
+      than another because all the material bounties of nature and art are
+      common to all, being as free as the air. I suppose, as this seems to be
+      strange talk to you, that you cannot realize what it is to belong to a
+      society where everyone considers the interests of his neighbor as much as
+      his own. You will find when you reach that point that most of your
+      troubles will be gone, as ours are.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Our troubles!&rdquo; said the doctor. &ldquo;Many of our troubles, to be sure, arise
+      from our passions and appetites&mdash;in other words, from our selfishness&mdash;and
+      these will no doubt disappear when we reach that blessed state of which
+      you have spoken, a condition prayed for and dimly expected by many of our
+      race. But other troubles of ours come from sickness and severe toil, from
+      accidents, famines, and the convulsions of nature. How, for example, can
+      you have escaped the latter, unless, indeed, God has helped those who have
+      so wisely helped themselves?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Your last thought is right,&rdquo; answered our friend. &ldquo;Nature has certainly
+      assisted us. While the crust of the planet was thin we know the central
+      fires heaved and shook the ground and burst forth from the mountains,
+      causing great destruction and keeping the world in fear. We do not know
+      how thick the crust of the planet now is, but nothing has been felt of
+      those inner convulsions for many ages. One of our feats of engineering has
+      been to see how far we could penetrate into the surface of the globe. A
+      well of vast size has been dug, the temperature being carefully noted and
+      observations made of the many different substances passed through&mdash;water,
+      coal, gas, oil, and all kinds of mineral deposits. The work has progressed
+      from one generation to another, and no one can tell when it will be called
+      finished, as it is determined to dig toward the center of the planet as
+      fast as our ever-increasing skill will permit.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Did you find out how thick the crust is?&rdquo; I asked.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;No,&rdquo; he answered, &ldquo;we are not much nearer the solution of that question
+      than before, but we have made valuable discoveries as to what the crust is
+      composed of. The temperature has gradually, though slowly, increased, and
+      we believe the time will come when the work will have to be abandoned on
+      account of the heat. We have gone far enough to know that when the fuel on
+      the surface of our globe is all used up we shall only have to tap the
+      center to get all the heat we want.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;What a capital idea that will be,&rdquo; I interrupted, &ldquo;to throw at some of
+      our pessimistic friends on the earth, Doctor.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;We see now, Thorwald,&rdquo; my companion said, &ldquo;that your planet is too old to
+      give you any more trouble from earthquake and volcano, but how about other
+      natural phenomena, the tempest and cyclone for example?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Well,&rdquo; replied Thorwald, &ldquo;we have a theory that time, the great healer,
+      has cured these evils also. Let me ask, Doctor, if the earth ever receives
+      any accretions of matter from outside its own atmosphere?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Yes, we have the fall of meteorites, foreign substances which we believe
+      the earth encounters in its path around the sun.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I supposed such must be the case,&rdquo; Thorwald continued. &ldquo;And now, when you
+      consider the great age of Mars, perhaps you will not be surprised to learn
+      that this new matter, coming to us from the outside, was sufficient to
+      increase the weight of our globe and gradually decrease the rate of speed
+      at which we were traveling through space.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I am surprised, though,&rdquo; said the doctor, &ldquo;because the accumulation of
+      meteorolites on the surface of the earth is so exceedingly slow that it
+      would take millions of years, at the present rate, to increase its
+      diameter one inch.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But perhaps they came much faster in past ages. Let me ask you, Doctor,
+      if it is not a fact that the rate of revolution of Mars around the sun is
+      slower than the earth&rsquo;s? I suppose you are far enough advanced in
+      astronomical science to answer that.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Yes,&rdquo; replied the doctor, &ldquo;you are correct. I believe the earth speeds
+      along at nineteen miles a second, while Mars travels only sixteen miles in
+      the same time.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;We know by our computations that our speed is much less than it once was,
+      and our theory is that this has in some way hushed those terrible storms
+      and winds which we know were formerly so frequent.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      Here the doctor thought he saw a chance to make a point, and spoke as
+      follows:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;If the meteorites come in quantities sufficient to have caused such
+      changes, it seems to me their fall must be as great a menace to your peace
+      as the evils they have cured. They do not strike the earth in large
+      numbers, but still we have a record of a shower of meteoric stones which
+      devastated a whole village. I suppose all parts of your globe are by this
+      time well populated, and how can you be entirely free from trouble when
+      you are living in constant danger of the downfall of these great masses of
+      rock?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But we don&rsquo;t have meteorites now,&rdquo; replied Thorwald.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Oh, you don&rsquo;t?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;No, they ceased falling long ago. Mars is going slow enough for the
+      present.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Very kind of them, I am sure, to stop when you didn&rsquo;t need them any
+      longer,&rdquo; said the doctor; &ldquo;and I suppose you have some plausible reason to
+      give for their disappearance.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Yes, we believe that the interplanetary space was well filled with these
+      small bodies, circling around the sun, and when their multitudinous and
+      eccentric orbits intercepted the orbits of the planets, they came within
+      the attraction of these larger masses. Mars has merely, in the course of
+      time, cleared for itself a broad path in its yearly journey and is now
+      encountering no more straggling fragments.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;There, Doctor,&rdquo; said I, &ldquo;you are well answered. And now, Thorwald, tell
+      us how you have escaped other evils, famine and fire for instance.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Fire,&rdquo; continued our friend, &ldquo;was one of the first foes subdued. We quite
+      early learned to make our habitations and everything about us of fireproof
+      materials, and, if I mistake not, you on the earth will not long endure an
+      enemy which can be so easily put down. You will find all materials can be
+      so treated with chemicals as to be absolutely safe from the flames. We
+      have fire only when and where we desire it.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;When you speak of famines you touch a more difficult subject, but here,
+      too, time and skill have wrought wonderful changes. In our histories we
+      read of the time when the weather was chiefly noted for its fickleness,
+      and when some parts of our globe were mere desert wastes, where rain was
+      unknown and no life could exist. And in the inhabited portions one section
+      would often be deluged with too much rain while another would have none,
+      both conditions leading to a failure in agriculture and much consequent
+      suffering. A long time was spent in gathering statistics, which finally
+      proved that if the rainfall were distributed there would be just about
+      enough to water sufficiently the whole surface of the globe. Nature
+      provided rain enough, but it did not always fall where and when it was
+      most needed. It seemed to be left with us to find a remedy for this
+      apparent evil. When I say &lsquo;us&rsquo; in this way I mean our race as a whole, for
+      most of these changes took place many ages ago.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Our philosophers had seen so many difficulties removed and improvements
+      made in things supposed to be fixed that they began, once upon a time, to
+      assert that rain and snow and the weather in general ought to be subject
+      to our will. They said that in the advanced state of civilization toward
+      which we were progressing it would seem to be an anomalous thing that we
+      should continue to be subjected to the annoyances of so changeable a
+      tyrant as the weather. We seemed destined to gain control of so many of
+      the forces of nature that our future mastery in this department looked to
+      them reasonable. For a long time these views appeared fanciful to the
+      many, but this did not deter a few enthusiasts from study and experiment.
+      As knowledge and skill increased we began, little by little, to gain
+      control of the elements; but do not imagine it was anything less than a
+      slow and laborious work.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;First, as we learned something of the laws which control the
+      precipitation of the moisture suspended in the atmosphere, we discovered a
+      way to produce rain by mechanical means. As this discovery was gradually
+      developed we found we had really solved the problem. For, as there was
+      only a certain amount of moisture taken up into the air, the quantity of
+      rain could not be increased nor diminished, and so when we made it rain in
+      one place it was always at the expense of the rainfall somewhere else.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Since those early days vast improvement has been made, until now these
+      laws, once so mysterious and so perplexing, are obedient to our service.
+      The whole face of our planet has been reclaimed, and drouth and famine on
+      the one hand and floods on the other are entirely unknown. Each section of
+      country is given rain or snow or sunshine just as it needs it, and there
+      is no uncertainty in the matter.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      When Thorwald had reached this point my curiosity prompted me to ask him
+      to tell us in a few words how they could make it rain when they pleased,
+      and he answered that he would be glad to give us details of all these
+      matters if we insisted on it, but he thought it would be better for him to
+      present a general view of the state of their society, leaving it for us to
+      see with our own eyes how things were done, after we had reached our
+      destination.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      I readily acquiesced, with an apology for my interruption, and Thorwald
+      resumed:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;The doctor spoke of accidents, sickness, and severe toil as among the
+      sources of your troubles. With us, at the present day, all natural laws
+      are so well understood and so faithfully obeyed that there are no
+      accidents. Machinery and appliances of all kinds are perfect; nothing is
+      left to chance, but everything is governed by law. And as we follow that
+      law in every instance nothing can ever happen, in the old sense of that
+      word. To take a homely example, you have of course learned that it is not
+      well to put your hand into the fire, and so, though you use a good deal of
+      fire you keep your hands out of it. You know what the law is, and you do
+      not tempt it. By our long experience we have learned the operation of all
+      laws, and in every position in life we simply avoid putting our hand into
+      the fire. To be sure, we have been assisted in this by superior skill and
+      by our general steadiness and ripeness of character. If I read history
+      aright accidents were caused by ignorance or neglect of law, and I am sure
+      the people of the earth, when they begin to realize fully how unnecessary
+      they are, will soon outgrow them.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;As for sickness, you cannot understand how strange the word sounds to me.
+      Just think for a moment how useless, how out of place, such a thing as
+      sickness is. Like the subject just spoken of, it comes from disobedience
+      to law, and although I know we were a long time in ridding ourselves of
+      it, it seems to me now that it must be one of the easiest of your troubles
+      to remove. With us the science of medicine became so perfect that it
+      accomplished a great deal of the reform, but more was done by each
+      individual acquiring full knowledge of himself and acting up to that
+      knowledge. In learning to love our neighbors we did not forget to foster a
+      proper love for ourselves. In fact, our creed teaches that self-love is
+      one of our most important duties. When one is instructed to love his
+      neighbor as himself it is presupposed that his affection for himself is of
+      that high quality that will always lead him to do the very best he can for
+      every part of his being. So, as our development continued, we came in time
+      to love ourselves too well to despise or abuse or neglect the bodies we
+      lived in. We studied how best to nurture and care for those bodies, and
+      when that lesson was thoroughly learned we found that sickness and pain
+      were gone, and with them, also, all fear of death. For now we die when our
+      days are fully ended. The span of our life has been doubled since we began
+      to know and care for ourselves, and, at the close, death is anticipated
+      and recognized as a friend.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <hr />
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2HCH0007" id="link2HCH0007"> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      CHAPTER VII. RAPID TRANSIT ON MARS.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      Here Thorwald paused and said he should be obliged to leave us a short
+      time to attend to some duty in the management of the vessel. When he
+      returned I remarked that neither he nor his companions seemed to have to
+      work very hard.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;That,&rdquo; he answered, &ldquo;is just the thought I want to speak of next, as the
+      doctor has said many earthly troubles arise from severe labor. Here there
+      is no hard work for us. It is all done by some kind of mechanism. Look at
+      the handling of this ship, in which, as you say, no one is burdened. The
+      hard and disagreeable parts of the work are taken out of our hands and are
+      put into the hand of machinery, which in its perfection is almost
+      intelligent. It is so in all departments of work. Inventions looking
+      toward the saving of labor have closely followed each other for so many
+      years that their object is about accomplished, and all the pain and sorrow
+      accompanying daily toil are things of the dead past. Even our animals are
+      relieved from distressing labor and share with us the blessings of an
+      advanced civilization, every heavy weight being raised and every
+      burdensome load being drawn by an arm of steel or aluminum, which neither
+      tires nor feels. We do not need to pity a machine. Why should flesh and
+      blood, whether of dumb beasts or of more intelligent beings, suffer the
+      agony of labor when the work can be better done by mechanical means?
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;While speaking of the lower animals I may as well say here that we have
+      no wild beasts. All have been tamed; not merely brought into subjection,
+      but made the friends and companions in a sense of our higher race. Every
+      animal, large and small, has lost its power and will to harm us. The wasp
+      has lost its sting, the serpent its poison, and the tiger its desire to
+      tear. And not only is their enmity to us all gone, but they no longer prey
+      upon each other. Perfect peace reigns in this realm also.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;What has brought about this highly interesting condition?&rdquo; I asked. &ldquo;Was
+      there a natural tendency toward perfection on the part of the beasts?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;No,&rdquo; replied Thorwald, &ldquo;I think not. The change has been accomplished by
+      us. Nothing that has life could help being uplifted by contact with our
+      ever-expanding civilization. We believe the chief factor in working this
+      great betterment in the animal creation has been our success in entirely
+      eliminating flesh as an article of food. We early came to see it was not
+      necessary for ourselves and that without it we were much better prepared
+      to assume the higher duties belonging to our advanced life. We then began
+      to experiment with the animals nearest us. It was a slow and discouraging
+      task at first, but finally we obtained results that gave us hope of
+      success. We found in the course of many years that the digestive organs of
+      the animals on which we were experimenting were gradually becoming
+      accustomed to a vegetable diet. We continued the work, extending it to one
+      class of animals after another, until in time all carnivorous instincts
+      disappeared.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      This interested the doctor exceedingly, and he remarked that he should
+      think there would have been some kinds of animals that would resist all
+      efforts to work such a change in them; but Thorwald answered:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I have never read of such cases, but if there were any the species must
+      have become extinct, for now, in all this world, no conscious life is
+      taken to support another life. No blood is let for our refreshment and no
+      minutest creature is pursued and slain to appease the appetite of its
+      stronger neighbor.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Does this condition extend even to the fish of the sea?&rdquo; inquired the
+      doctor.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Even to the fish of the sea,&rdquo; answered the Martian.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Now that you discover,&rdquo; he continued, &ldquo;what improvement has been wrought
+      in the lower animals, you can understand that their comfort is an object
+      of our solicitude, and that we take great pleasure in knowing that they
+      are relieved from all hard labor.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But you haven&rsquo;t told us,&rdquo; said I, &ldquo;what is the source of the power that
+      does all your work.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Let me ask,&rdquo; replied Thorwald, &ldquo;if you have begun to use electricity
+      yet?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Yes,&rdquo; I answered, &ldquo;we are trying to harness it, but it is still far from
+      obedient to us.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I perceive,&rdquo; said our friend, &ldquo;from this and other things you have told
+      me, that your development is going on in about the order which has
+      prevailed on Mars. Do not be discouraged in your efforts to bring that
+      mysterious and wonderful agent, electricity, into complete subjection. You
+      will find it your most useful servant, and in connection with aluminum it
+      will enable you to solve numerous problems and remove many difficulties
+      from your path of progress.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Here we have made full use of both of these valuable helps. Electricity
+      enters into every department of life.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;It runs our errands, takes us from place to place, builds our houses,
+      cooks our food, and even is applied to the growth of our food when we are
+      in haste for any article. Its laws are so well understood that there is no
+      fear of personal injury from its use, and I will show you how familiar an
+      aid it is to us. Here,&rdquo; he continued, taking from his pocket a brightly
+      polished case of metal, &ldquo;is a compact storage battery, containing, not
+      electricity itself, of course, but elements so prepared that a simple
+      touch will start into motion a powerful current, able to perform almost
+      any task I may ask of it. This case, you see, is so small and light that
+      it is no burden, and yet it contains power enough to serve me for many
+      days. Of course, all our work of a fixed character has appliances with the
+      power permanently attached, and these portable reservoirs are carried
+      about with us only for detached and unexpected tasks.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      To my experienced eye the doctor&rsquo;s face looked a little skeptical at this
+      last remark, and he said:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But how can the power be applied in these emergencies? Suppose, for
+      example, it were necessary for you to go from here to the other end of
+      this vessel in half a second, how would the electricity in your box help
+      you do it?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;If I really thought, Doctor, you wanted to be rid of me I would be
+      tempted to try it; but, as I told your companion just now, you had better
+      learn all you can of our history before you begin to see what we can do.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I haven&rsquo;t told you half of the wonders performed by this marvelous power.
+      It has long been our chief reliance for rapid traveling. You find us in
+      this ship; but, although navigation is a perfected science, this mode of
+      traveling is tedious, and ships are used only for pleasure and such
+      out-of-the-way trips as this. Journeys from place to place over
+      established routes are made in large tubes, in which the cars are
+      propelled by electricity. These tubes run both on land and water, being
+      suspended in the latter a little way below the surface. Both tubes and
+      cars are air-tight, and the adjustment is so perfect that the cars slide
+      along with the greatest ease. Riding in an air-tight chamber would not be
+      pleasant if much time were to be occupied in that way, but the cars are
+      propelled so swiftly that the time from one station to another is hardly
+      appreciable. At every stop the cars are opened and apparatus set in motion
+      which changes the air completely almost in a moment. Where the tubes run
+      under water shafts for air are put in at the stations. There is always a
+      double line, one tube for each direction. No chance is left for accidents.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Of course we navigate the air, swiftly and safely. If not in too much
+      haste we always take the aerial passage, and often on a pleasant day the
+      sky over a great city will be as full of air ships, or balloons as we
+      still sometimes call them, as its harbor is of pleasure boats. In this
+      department inventors had a fruitful field, the use of aluminum offering
+      abundant opportunity for the greatest variety of devices, and the
+      development of the flying machine was one of the most interesting features
+      in the march toward our present high civilization. Perhaps the presence of
+      so many electrical machines in the air and the utilization of so much
+      electricity on land and water have, after thousands of years, done much
+      toward freeing us from the thunderstorm, with its deadly lightning. We
+      have fairly robbed the clouds of their electricity and taught it to do our
+      work.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Swift and economical as our modern electric cars are, there is one mode
+      of traveling sometimes adopted which is more rapid still, and the cheapest
+      and in some respects the easiest way of getting over the surface of the
+      globe ever dreamed of. It was discovered by accident, just before
+      accidents entirely ceased, in the following manner:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;A couple of scientific enthusiasts, of the kind we call cranks&mdash;I
+      don&rsquo;t know what you call them on the earth&mdash;conceived the idea that
+      they could find something better to take the place of the highly purified
+      and buoyant gases which we used in our flying machines. They observed, in
+      the lofty flights they were accustomed to make into the air, that as they
+      ascended the atmosphere grew lighter, and this led them to think they
+      might go far into the upper regions, collect large quantities of rarefied
+      air, bring it down, and use it for floating flying machines. Of course,
+      they understood that any vessel this thin air was put into must be strong
+      enough to prevent being collapsed by the weight of the denser atmosphere
+      on the surface. But they thought small spherical vessels of very thin
+      metal could be made that would withstand this pressure and still hold
+      enough to float and carry some weight besides. They had a large number of
+      these hollow balls made and started on a trial trip, expecting to bring
+      down only a small quantity each time. But, in their endeavor to obtain the
+      very best quality of lifting material possible, they went much higher than
+      they intended, although this did not cause them as much inconvenience as
+      might have been expected, since they were provided with the latest
+      improved breathing apparatus. The result of their adventure, however, was
+      a discovery of such magnitude that it drove from their minds all thought
+      of their real errand and we never again heard of that project. After
+      remaining at an extreme height a few hours, the surface of the planet
+      being hidden by clouds, they began to descend, and when they were near
+      enough to see the features of the country below them, everything looked
+      strange and unknown. They could not account for this, but continued their
+      fall, fully persuaded that it must be their own world and not some other
+      which they were approaching. But even if they had not been correct in
+      that, they could hardly have been more surprised than they were to find,
+      on landing, that they were almost exactly on the opposite side of the
+      globe from the place where they made the ascent. They seemed to have
+      traveled half way around the world in that incredibly short space of time,
+      when in reality they had remained stationary and the world had traveled
+      around them. The fact is, they had risen above all the denser portion of
+      the planet&rsquo;s atmosphere, and had reached a stratum of extremely rarefied
+      air, which, it seems, does not accompany the globe in its revolution. Of
+      course, the facts were at once heralded to the four quarters of the world,
+      and the two aerial travelers found themselves famous. But they did not
+      wish to let such an astounding discovery rest upon the results of a single
+      experiment, and so they proved themselves worthy of their new fame by
+      going home the way they came. That is, they mounted their flying machine,
+      rose again to the same lofty height, remained there about the same time as
+      before, descended, and were near their home.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      Here the doctor asked:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;And has this singular mode of traveling become popular, Thorwald?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;For long distances east and west it is often resorted to. But I presume
+      you are asking yourself whether you could introduce it on the earth. When
+      you return and begin to think it over you will probably see so many
+      practical difficulties in the way that you will not attempt it. You must
+      have patience. All these things will come to your race in time.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <hr />
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2HCH0008" id="link2HCH0008"> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      CHAPTER VIII. THORWALD PUZZLED.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I fear,&rdquo; continued Thorwald, &ldquo;that I am wearying you with this long
+      talk.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      We assured him we were enjoying it too much to think of being tired, and
+      hoped he would not stop. But he said he had some duties to attend to, and
+      would take us to his room and leave us by ourselves for a while.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      As soon as we were alone the doctor looked at me with a smile and said:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Why did you act so queerly when I spoke of Mona?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Why did you speak so?&rdquo; I asked in reply. &ldquo;And how could you tell Thorwald
+      we found one inhabitant on the moon?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Did you want to have me tell him a falsehood?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Of course not. I tried to catch your eye and keep you from saying any
+      thing on the subject till we could consult in regard to it. If we are
+      going to color our narrative in order to make it more marvelous we must at
+      least make our stories agree.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;My friend,&rdquo; said the doctor, &ldquo;I am now confirmed in my suspicion that
+      your brain was affected by your fall from the moon.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      I saw by this time that I need not hesitate further to tell the doctor the
+      truth. I disliked the task, but I saw it would not be safe to leave him
+      any longer in ignorance of his condition. There as no telling what other
+      preposterous tales he might invent. So I said to him gently:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Doctor, your last remark makes it easier for me to tell you that the
+      first words you said to me on this vessel showed me that you were not
+      right. I kept it from our new friends here, and I thought I had better
+      tell you how you are, so you can be a little cautious. You talk all right
+      on most subjects, but you will do well to avoid the moon as a topic of
+      conversation. If the others ask any more questions about the moon, you can
+      just let me answer them.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      I said all this seriously enough, but the doctor laughed boisterously as
+      he answered:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Well, if this isn&rsquo;t a joke. You think I am crazy, and I know you are
+      crazy, and I can prove it. I will just ask you one question, which please
+      answer truthfully. Don&rsquo;t you remember Mona?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Oh, there is Mona again! Don&rsquo;t you see that only proves your own madness?
+      No, I don&rsquo;t remember Mona, and you don&rsquo;t either.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I must say,&rdquo; returned the doctor, &ldquo;I never expected to see you get over
+      your infatuation so quickly.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;What direction did my infatuation, as you call it, take?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Marriage, I should say.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Now you interest me,&rdquo; I returned, &ldquo;and you must tell me more. Is this
+      Mona of yours the sole resident of the moon, of whom you spoke to
+      Thorwald?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Certainly she is, but you surely must be out of your head to call her my
+      Mona&mdash;I want no stronger proof.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;How so?&rdquo; I asked.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Why, because but yesterday you scarce wanted to have me speak to her. You
+      tried to keep your jealousy from me, but there was not room enough in all
+      the moon to hide it.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;This is very laughable,&rdquo; I exclaimed.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;You did not think so then. But let me try to bring it all back to you by
+      another question. Don&rsquo;t you remember her voice?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Most truly I do not. Why, what was the matter with her voice? Was it loud
+      and harsh, or was it squeaky? I cannot imagine anything very pleasant in
+      the way of a voice in such a wild and withered home as the moon would
+      make.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;True,&rdquo; answered the doctor, &ldquo;as to the outside, but you forget our visit
+      to the interior.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;There it is again,&rdquo; said I. &ldquo;Now, Doctor, the sooner you get rid of these
+      strange notions the better So tell me your recollections of our stay in
+      the moon, and I will let you know where you are wrong.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Very well. You remember, of course, when we found ourselves rushing away
+      from the earth so swiftly.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Yes, and then we remained shut up in the car day after day, more dead
+      than alive I think, until, fortunately, we were spilled out upon this more
+      favored globe.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;You seem to be sincere,&rdquo; said the doctor, &ldquo;but if you are, then you
+      forget the most interesting part of our experience. Just as we were about
+      to be overwhelmed with our troubles we heard exquisite music, which we
+      soon found proceeded from a lovely maiden. You fell desperately in love
+      with her at first sight and never recovered till you were plunged in the
+      ocean of Mars. You insisted on following her nod, and she led us at once
+      through a narrow path down into the center of the moon. Here, in her quiet
+      home, we taught her to sing in our language&mdash;her only speech was song&mdash;and
+      the first words she used were to say she loved me. She did not understand
+      what the words meant, of course, but you looked as if you wished I had
+      been blown away before Mona had discovered us. After that I helped you in
+      your wooing all I could, but although your passion increased every day
+      your suit did not seem to prosper. One day I expressed the wish that I had
+      some of the things we had left in the car, whereupon she led us out to the
+      surface again, where we arrived just in time to be thrown upon this
+      planet. Here we are, you and I, all safe, but where is poor Mona?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I am sure it would take a wise man to answer that question,&rdquo; I replied.
+      &ldquo;And now let me show you, Doctor, how wrong you are. If you will only try
+      to exercise a little of that good judgment for which you are noted, you
+      will be convinced that this is only a pretty little fairy tale which has
+      somehow taken possession of a corner of your brain. Now that the fairy is
+      gone you must try to forget the rest. Just think how unlikely the whole
+      story is. Think of a delicate girl living in such surroundings as we found
+      there; and then, how could we exist down in the center of the moon?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Why, don&rsquo;t you remember Mona told us the water and atmosphere had all run
+      down there, making it the only habitable part of the decaying globe?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Oh, that&rsquo;s only one of your scientific notions, probably as true as the
+      others that we have disproved. Too much science has turned your head, and
+      I will prove it to you again by showing you how impossible is the part
+      which I play in your romance. I will tell you now, what you doubtless do
+      not know, that I am engaged to be married to the best woman in all the
+      earth, excepting your own good wife, of course.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Is that a fact?&rdquo; asked the doctor. &ldquo;And do you love her?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;To be sure I do. I love her very dearly, and if I ever see her again I
+      shall tell her so in a manner to make her understand it.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Why, doesn&rsquo;t she understand it now?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Yes, I think so, but she thought I didn&rsquo;t show heart enough in my
+      wooing.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Well, if she could see you with Mona she would learn that you have plenty
+      of heart when the right one appears to make it spring into life.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;You speak as if you thought I did not love Margaret. You do not know her.
+      Why, I wouldn&rsquo;t once look at another woman anywhere, not even in Mars, and
+      most certainly not in that puckered-up old world that we have just left,
+      happily for us.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Do you know what I think about you?&rdquo; asked the doctor.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;No.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I think you have an exceedingly poor memory. First, you forgot Margaret
+      as soon as the voice of that fair singer fell on your ear, and now you
+      have forgotten the singer again the moment we have lost her. I await with
+      much interest your first introduction to a daughter of Mars.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;You will be disappointed,&rdquo; said I, &ldquo;if you think I shall be more than
+      civil to her.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;If she be handsome and can turn a tune moderately well, I shall be
+      willing to wager a fair young planet against the moon that you will
+      propose to her in a week.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I have done nothing to give you so poor an opinion of me. It is only your
+      own diseased imagination, and I do not seem to be curing it very fast. I
+      suppose, because your mind is naturally so strong, it is the more
+      difficult to destroy such an hallucination as has taken possession of
+      you.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I would give it up,&rdquo; said the doctor. &ldquo;The story is all true, and not a
+      work of my imagination. Isn&rsquo;t it more reasonable to believe that you could
+      forget the circumstances I have related than that I could invent such a
+      tale?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Oh, I never could forget it if I had been false to Margaret. You do not
+      know me. If your vagaries had taken any other direction I might possibly
+      be brought to think you were right.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      By this time we both began to realize that the conversation was not
+      proving a great success in the way we had hoped, and so, after some
+      pleasant words and a hearty laugh over the situation, we found our way to
+      the deck again. Here there were various things to attract our attention,
+      different members of the crew being eager to show us about. The doctor
+      asked some question in regard to the system of steering the vessel, and
+      when one of the men had taken him back toward the stern to explain the
+      point, I found Thorwald and quietly explained to him the mental condition
+      of my companion.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;The doctor is all right,&rdquo; I said, &ldquo;on every subject but one. His head
+      must have been injured a little in his fall, and he imagines and asserts
+      with positiveness that we found a young woman in the moon, the last of her
+      race&mdash;a ridiculous idea, is it not?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;And did you find any inhabitants at all?&rdquo; asked Thorwald.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Certainly not. No one could live in such a place. It is indeed marvelous
+      how we existed long enough to get here. The doctor calls this creature of
+      his brain Mona, says she was a great beauty, and plainly intimates that I
+      was rather too attentive to her. You will see what a convincing proof this
+      is of his unsound condition when I tell you I am engaged to the best woman
+      on the earth, and so of course could not show any marked preference for
+      another. I have told you about the doctor so that you may pass over
+      unnoticed any allusion he makes to these subjects.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      Thorwald thanked me and said he would be careful not to embarrass us in
+      the matter. And so I flattered myself that in the future Thorwald and I
+      would sympathize with each other in commiserating the doctor. But I
+      afterward learned that the doctor, about this time, had also sought an
+      interview with Thorwald and had confided the following secret to him:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;My friend,&rdquo; said he, &ldquo;is a fine young fellow, but his head must have been
+      injured in his fall. He has entirely forgotten the best of our experience
+      in the moon. Queer, too, for he fell in love with the only and last
+      inhabitant of that globe, a beautiful, sweet-voiced maiden named Mona, who
+      never talked but she sang.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      Thorwald then made the doctor tell him the whole story, and at the close
+      he promised he would not pay much attention to anything I might say on the
+      subject in future conversation.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      So it was quite a puzzle to Thorwald to tell which of his visitors from
+      the earth was of unsettled mind and which in his normal condition. He
+      decided to hold the question open and wait for further evidence.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <hr />
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2HCH0009" id="link2HCH0009"> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      CHAPTER IX. THORWALD AS A PROPHET.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      As maybe supposed, the doctor and I were anxious to hear more about Mars,
+      and it was not long before we were all seated together again, when
+      Thorwald resumed his instructive talk.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;What further can I tell you of our condition and achievements? Every
+      science has made mighty progress in bestowing its own benefit upon us. New
+      arts have been discovered in the course of our development, about which
+      you would understand nothing. The aim and result of all science have been
+      to add to our comfort and happiness&mdash;our true happiness, which
+      consists in improvement and the constant uplifting of character. The evils
+      that once vexed our world, both those occasioned by natural phenomena and
+      those brought about by our own ignorance and sin, have, as you have heard,
+      almost completely disappeared. Even mental troubles are gone, and no
+      corroding care destroys our peace, for there is nothing for us to dread;
+      no dark future, filled with unknown evils, awaits our unwilling feet, and
+      no superstitious or unnatural fear disturbs the peaceful quiet of our
+      sleep.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;And are we to understand, Thorwald,&rdquo; I asked, &ldquo;that you believe all this
+      rest from trouble and wrongdoing is coming to the earth, too?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Before replying directly to your question,&rdquo; answered Thorwald, &ldquo;let me
+      ask you if there is any tendency in that direction. Look back to the
+      earliest days of your history and compare the state of things then
+      existing with that of your own times. Has your world made any progress? Is
+      there any less violence? Are men learning to live without fighting? Are
+      the dark corners of the earth coming to the light?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;In these and many other directions,&rdquo; I answered, &ldquo;I think we can see
+      improvement.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Then,&rdquo; continued Thorwald, &ldquo;it seems to me you must believe with me that
+      your world will one day come to the condition in which you find us. Have
+      not your holy prophets foretold a time of universal peace both for man and
+      beast, a time when a higher law than selfishness shall govern all hearts
+      and the earth be filled with the spirit of love?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;They have,&rdquo; I replied, &ldquo;but most of us are so engrossed in the struggle
+      for existence that we think lightly or not at all of such things. These
+      prophecies have never impressed me as they do now when I see your
+      condition, and reflect that similar words may have been spoken and then
+      fulfilled here.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Let me assure you,&rdquo; Thorwald made haste to say, &ldquo;that the earth is still
+      young. I can see by all you say that your age is one of unusual vitality
+      and progress. A firm faith that victory will come and that the golden age
+      is before you will be a great help in your struggle with evil. Lay hold of
+      that faith. It is yours. It needs no prophet to tell you that your race
+      will one day reach our blessed state. First will come the spirit of peace,
+      and as I am sure war must be repugnant to such minds as yours, you will
+      readily learn to put it away from you. Then will begin to cease all
+      bitterness between man and man, and you will be started on the road that
+      leads to brotherly kindness. A world of sorrows will fall away with the
+      passing of individual and national strife, not only the horror of the
+      battlefield and the misery that follows it, but also the more secret and
+      world-wide unhappiness that comes from the petty conflicts over the
+      so-called rights of person and property. Selfishness, that monstrous
+      source of evil, must be dethroned, and then the rights of each will be
+      cared for by all. This will usher in for you a new era.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;And now, when the mighty energy that has been expended in learning and
+      practicing the science of war, the skill that has been given to the art of
+      killing, the treasures of money and blood, the time, the brain and the
+      activities that have been employed in carrying out plans of aggression,
+      large and small, of neighbor against neighbor&mdash;when these have all
+      been turned toward the betterment of your condition and the salvation of
+      men from degradation and sin, then will the arts of peace flourish and
+      your day begin. Then will nature herself come to your assistance, molding
+      her laws to your convenience and comfort. It will doubtless be a long time
+      before a man can love and consider his neighbor as himself, and before all
+      of God&rsquo;s creatures on your planet can dwell together in perfect peace,
+      but, believe me, the earth will live to see that time.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Thorwald,&rdquo; spoke the doctor, &ldquo;your words are so inspiring that I almost
+      wish my life could have waited some thousands of years for that bright day
+      you so confidently promise for the earth, but I cannot help asking myself
+      if it is altogether a misfortune to live in the midst of the conflict,
+      with something ahead to strive for. Will you pardon my presumption if I
+      ask you practically the same question? You have told us of your wonderful
+      history and that you have now reached a condition of peace and quiet. With
+      no sickness or sorrow in your lives, with no evil passions to rise and
+      throw you, with nothing to fear from without or within, yours must be a
+      blissful condition. But still, is there always content? In our imperfect
+      state we are striving and learning. Our happiness largely consists in the
+      pursuit of happiness. If, some day, we should find all difficulties
+      removed, no obstacles left to contend against, no evil in ourselves or
+      others to overcome, not even our bodily wants to provide for, it seems to
+      me life would lose its zest and become a burden hardly worth the carrying.
+      Can you remove this unhandsome doubt?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I will try,&rdquo; answered Thorwald. &ldquo;I suppose if the people of the earth,
+      with their present capacities and aspirations, should be brought suddenly
+      to such a state of civilization as ours, it would be as you say. As your
+      development continues, your minds and souls will expand and you will be
+      prepared to take up new duties and occupations as they come. I cannot tell
+      you what these are, for at present you would not understand me. You
+      mistake if you think we have ceased to learn. The mind is ever reaching
+      forward to new attainments, and the things which chiefly occupy us now
+      would have been beyond our comprehension in our earlier days. Can you not
+      find an illustration on the earth? Suppose the untutored savage were
+      suddenly required to throw away his spear and arrow and engage in your
+      pursuits, Doctor. Would he be happy? Your mind is full of thoughts that he
+      cannot grasp, your life is made up of experiences and aspirations of which
+      he has no conception. You can see your superiority to the savage. Let me
+      help you to look forward and see your inferiority to the coming man, who,
+      I assure you, will never tire of life while anything that God has made
+      remains to be studied. As the mind expands, new wonders and new beauties
+      in creation will unfold themselves and your race will learn to look back
+      with pity upon your present age, with its mean and trivial occupations.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But, Thorwald,&rdquo; I asked, &ldquo;can you not tell us something of these higher
+      pursuits?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But very little,&rdquo; he answered. &ldquo;I might give you one or two hints of some
+      things which I think lie nearest you, if indeed you have not already begun
+      to consider them. I need hardly speak of astronomy, which, from the nature
+      of the case, is the earliest of all sciences wherever there is intelligent
+      life to view the works of creation. You will find great profit in
+      advancing in this study as rapidly as possible. We have not yet ceased to
+      pursue it, and I think it is one branch of knowledge which will never be
+      exhausted, in the present life at least. Our achievements in astronomy
+      have been marvelous.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Do not neglect to look in the other direction also for evidences of God&rsquo;s
+      power and wisdom. The microscope will almost keep pace with the telescope
+      in revealing the wonders of creation. It will greatly assist you in many
+      of your higher employments.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;One thing that you will doubtless soon undertake is the study of the
+      speech of animals, which will go hand in hand with the development of
+      their intelligence. Both of these will claim much attention, but very
+      inadequate results will be obtained until after you have tamed and
+      domesticated the various species. You will want to discover how far
+      animals can be educated and whether their intelligence can ever be
+      developed into mind. As you progress in this study you will feel the
+      necessity of understanding their conversation and you will learn what you
+      can of their language. These tasks will seem of more importance to you
+      when the lower animals are all reclaimed and become the companions and
+      friends of man. You will try to discover the particular purpose for which
+      each species was created, and you will even be led to inquire, by a long
+      series of experiments, whether they possess the faintest shadow of moral
+      perceptions.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Then there is the great subject of plant life. Does the sensitiveness of
+      plants ever amount to sensibility or feeling? If so, is it a feeling you
+      are bound to respect? That is, should a wounded and bleeding tree excite
+      in you even the slightest shade of that sympathy you feel with a
+      distressed animal? These are inquiries which you doubtless think of little
+      moment now, but we have spent many years pursuing them.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;These are only a few faint indications of the multitude of questions
+      which lie before you for study. In every investigation which you follow,
+      whether connected with the mysteries of your own complex being or with the
+      unexplored depths of creation around you, a chief source of interest will
+      be the constant discovery of a perfect adaptation in the works of God. Of
+      course you know something of it already, but you will never cease to
+      wonder at the unfolding of this truth, as you come to realize more and
+      more fully that creation is one, and is moved and ruled by one
+      intelligence.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Oh, do not imagine that in the ages to come there will be nothing to make
+      life interesting. As your civilization advances and you are released
+      gradually from trouble and care, and from those petty affairs which now so
+      occupy you, your minds and souls will grow, and you will see far more
+      ahead of you worth striving for than you now do. Your happiness can still
+      consist largely in the pursuit of happiness.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <hr />
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2HCH0010" id="link2HCH0010"> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      CHAPTER X. MORE WORLDS THAN TWO.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      It was now so late in the day that further conversation was postponed, and
+      after a plain but exceedingly enjoyable supper we were shown to luxurious
+      rooms, where we spent our first night in Mars in great comfort.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      In the morning Thorwald told us we would reach our port in a few hours,
+      and so we sat down as early as we could after breakfast for a short talk.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The doctor furnished the text by opening the conversation with this
+      remark:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;It is wonderful to think we should find on this planet a race of people
+      so advanced, when so little thought is given, on the earth, to the idea of
+      life in other worlds.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;What has been the general opinion among you on that subject?&rdquo; asked
+      Thorwald.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;The subject has not had standing enough to call forth much opinion,&rdquo; the
+      doctor answered. &ldquo;There is an almost universal indifference in regard to
+      the matter. I think the common notion is that the earth is about all there
+      is in the universe worth considering.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But what are your own views, Doctor?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I have been one of those,&rdquo; he replied, &ldquo;who believed the notion of life
+      outside the earth to be a beautiful theory without one shred of scientific
+      basis. We knew the earth was inhabited and the moon was not, and there we
+      stopped. We did not know, and thought we never could know, anything that
+      could be called evidence pointing to the existence of life in the other
+      planets or elsewhere, and we held that there was no advantage in
+      speculation. We thought it unwise to spend much time or thought on a
+      subject about which we could know nothing. On coming here and finding you
+      I have learned that Mars is inhabited, but I do not know any more about
+      the other planets or stars.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Does not the mere knowledge that there are two life-bearing bodies lead
+      you to believe that there are more, among the vast numbers of worlds which
+      you have not visited?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I don&rsquo;t see why it should. How can we believe anything without evidence?
+      No one has ever come to us from those distant globes, and they are too far
+      away for us to see what is taking place on their surface.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;It seems strange, Doctor, to hear you reason in that way, but I suppose
+      some of our race were just as narrow, if you will pardon me for using that
+      word, as you are, before our wonderful successes in astronomy. I believe
+      you have not properly considered the subject, for it seems to me you had
+      knowledge enough, before you left the earth, to justify you in holding to
+      a strong probability of life beyond your own globe.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Let us see what some of that knowledge is. You know, to begin with, that
+      one world is inhabited. Then if you should find other bodies as large as
+      the earth and bearing any resemblance to it, there would be no
+      improbability in the thought that they or some of them were filled with
+      life. The improbability is certainly taken away by the knowledge that one
+      such body, the earth, is inhabited.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;You start, then, without prejudice, on a voyage of discovery, aided by
+      your telescope and your reasoning faculties.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;First you find, within distances that you can easily measure, a small
+      group of dark bodies, which you have called planets, all apparently
+      governed by a common law, in obedience to which they are circling around a
+      large body of quite different character, which gives them light and heat.
+      Of these dark bodies, which shine in the sky only by reflected light, the
+      earth is one, and, you are surprised to find, not the most important one,
+      judging from all you can discover. Some of the others are much larger and
+      are attended by more satellites. In fact, the earth is indistinguishable
+      in this little group. While it is not the largest, neither is it the
+      smallest. It is not the farthest from the sun nor the nearest to it. It is
+      merely one among the number. And how much alike the members of this family
+      are. Your telescopes do not point out any material differences, although
+      each has its individual characteristics. Let us enumerate some of the many
+      points of resemblance. They all turn on themselves as well as revolve
+      around the sun. All see the night follow the day, and in most of them
+      there must occur the regular succession of seasons. To each one the sun is
+      the source of light and heat, many of them have moons, and all can see the
+      stars. Nor does the resemblance stop here. For you have discovered that
+      one has an atmosphere, another is surrounded with clouds, while on the
+      surface of our own globe you see the polar snows increase in winter and
+      melt away in summer. Is it not probable that if you could get nearer to
+      these globes you would find still closer resemblances? And if they are
+      like the earth in so many ways, is it at all unlikely that they may, at
+      some period of their existence, be the abode of intelligent life? For what
+      other purpose were they made, Doctor?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;They make very pretty objects for us to look at,&rdquo; replied my companion.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Yes, those that can be seen,&rdquo; said Thorwald; &ldquo;but is that all? Were those
+      great worlds, some of them hundreds of times larger than your own globe,
+      created merely to add a little variety to your sky, and to give you the
+      pleasant task of watching their movements under the pretty title of
+      morning and evening star?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Speaking from the knowledge I had when I left the earth,&rdquo; the doctor
+      answered, &ldquo;I can say I never heard that they were put to any other use. No
+      one ever came down to us from any of them to tell us they were inhabited.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;And do you think,&rdquo; asked Thorwald, &ldquo;that the myriads of stars were also
+      made simply to delight the eye of man?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;How do I know that they were not?&rdquo; the doctor asked in reply.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Because of the absolute unreasonableness of the thought, if for no other
+      reason,&rdquo; answered Thorwald. &ldquo;But now let me recall to your mind more of
+      the knowledge possessed by the inhabitants of the earth. I think I know
+      about what that knowledge is, from my acquaintance with the present state
+      of your development. Astronomy has been our master science, and I can
+      remember fairly well the extent of our knowledge when we had reached your
+      stage. If I should fall into the error of attributing to you more than you
+      have already discovered you can easily correct me.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;If, now, you leave the little group of dark bodies which are so like the
+      earth, and go out still further into space, what do you find? At distances
+      so great that only the speed of light can be used as a measuring line, you
+      discover vast numbers of self-luminous bodies, which you call stars. Your
+      natural eye can tell but a small fraction of their number. For example,
+      look at the constellation you have named the Pleiades and you see six or
+      seven stars. View it through a three-inch telescope and you can count
+      perhaps three hundred. Now attach a photographic plate to the telescope,
+      and with an exposure of four hours the light coming from that small patch
+      of sky falls upon the sensitive film with a cumulative effect until you
+      have a picture of more than two thousand three hundred stars.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Yes,&rdquo; broke in the doctor, &ldquo;you are gauging correctly the state of our
+      knowledge. Our largest telescopes reveal in the entire sky, it is said,
+      one hundred million stars.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Then,&rdquo; answered Thorwald, &ldquo;if the glories of the heavens were made merely
+      to delight the eye of man, why was not the eye created of sufficient power
+      to behold them? As it is, only a small proportion of the stars can be seen
+      without the aid of instruments too costly and too delicate for general
+      use.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But have you the means of establishing any likeness between the earth and
+      those distant bodies? You have discovered that the law of gravitation is
+      universal and that the motions of the stars resemble those of the solar
+      system. Have you made any discoveries tending to prove the existence of
+      other systems like our own?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Yes,&rdquo; replied the doctor, &ldquo;our recent investigations of the periods of
+      some of the variable stars show irregularities in brightness, period, and
+      proper motion. A close study of these irregularities has convinced some of
+      our astronomers that there are invisible bodies near them, evidently
+      planets circling around a central sun. The theory is that the dark bodies
+      cause slight perturbations in the star, which account for the
+      irregularities in period, motion, etc. So Neptune was discovered by the
+      effect it had upon the observed movements of Uranus. This is the first
+      evidence we have had tending to prove that there are other groups of
+      worlds like ours, and it is considered quite significant.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I can readily believe it,&rdquo; said Thorwald, &ldquo;and I know how helpful every
+      bit of evidence is, in your search for knowledge. But if I mistake not you
+      have the aid of another instrument, which is destined to play an important
+      part in your future studies. You get much nearer those distant orbs when a
+      spectroscope is placed at the end of the telescope, and the ray of light
+      coming from sun and star is widened out into a band of color, which tells
+      a marvelous story. That light, that has been for years, and perhaps for
+      centuries, on its way to you, now discloses the very nature of the
+      substances which compose those fiery globes. And what are those
+      substances? It must have been a startling truth to the man who first read
+      from the spectrum of the star he was studying, that it contained matter
+      with which he was familiar, materials of which the earth itself is made.
+      By this science you have learned beyond doubt that many of the commonest
+      elements of the earth&rsquo;s crust exist also in other worlds, and, what is of
+      great significance, that the materials most closely connected with living
+      organisms on the earth, such as hydrogen, sodium, magnesium, and iron, are
+      the very ones which are found most widely diffused among the stars. I
+      think I am not wrong in assuming that you are somewhat acquainted with the
+      spectroscope and have made these discoveries.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;You are quite right,&rdquo; said the doctor. &ldquo;This branch of scientific
+      investigation has already been carried so far with us, and the results of
+      the experiments are so constant and uniform, that when it is asserted, for
+      example, that such and such a metal is present in a state of vapor in the
+      sun&rsquo;s atmosphere, it is estimated that the chances in favor of the
+      correctness of the assertion are as 300,000,000 to 1.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;You are helping my argument, Doctor,&rdquo; resumed Thorwald. &ldquo;But now let me
+      call your attention to another field of inquiry, in our search for
+      evidence to establish a likeness between the earth and the other parts of
+      the universe. You told me, a while ago, that you have the fall of
+      meteorites on your globe. Have you considered the striking evidence they
+      bring you? Let us imagine we have a meteoric fragment here. Take it in
+      your hand and think of it a moment. You have few things on your earth as
+      interesting as this piece of metallic stone. What a world of questions it
+      starts! What is its composition? Whence comes it? Once it was in
+      existence, but not here. Where, then, was its home? Out, out in the depths
+      of space, where burning suns roll and comets have their dwelling place.
+      The stars have fallen indeed, and here is one of the pieces. Before it
+      came to us as a messenger from the sky did it have an independent
+      existence, or is it a fragment of a shattered world? How long has it been
+      whirling in its unknown orbit, and what story has it for us from its
+      distant birthplace? If we can discover whence meteorites come, and of what
+      they are composed, I think you will agree with me that they furnish
+      valuable testimony in our inquiry. You have no doubt had many theories as
+      to their origin.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      I was just about to make answer to this implied question, when Thorwald
+      rose and eagerly scanned the horizon. After a moment he exclaimed:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;We shall have to break off our conversation for a time, as we are nearing
+      our port. I knew by other means that land must soon appear, and now I can
+      see it.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <hr />
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2HCH0011" id="link2HCH0011"> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      CHAPTER XI. MARS AS IT IS.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      The doctor and I looked in the direction indicated and speedily realized
+      that the superiority of the dwellers on Mars extended to the sense of
+      sight, for we could see nothing. But we were sailing so swiftly that the
+      shore we were approaching was before very long brought within our vision
+      also, and among the alert crew, who were now preparing to bring the vessel
+      into its harbor, there could be none so interested in what was to come as
+      the doctor and myself. We were to see what had been accomplished by a race
+      of whose perfections we had been hearing so much.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      As we effected a landing and walked up the streets of the city, we were
+      not nearly so much impressed with the size and beauty of the buildings and
+      the appearance of the people as we were by the spirit of absolute peace
+      and quiet which prevailed. With perfect skill, and without noise or
+      bustle, the ship was brought to its dock and the crew went ashore. The
+      screams and calls, the rattle of vehicles and the babel of sounds we had
+      been accustomed to on such occasions, were all missing. The silence and
+      order were almost oppressive because they were so strange. But there was
+      no lack of activity among the immense creatures who thronged around us.
+      Everyone was busy, knowing apparently just what to do without direction
+      from others, and just the best way to do it. Beings with lungs powerful
+      enough to wake the mountain echoes went about with mild and tuneful
+      voices, and, though each one seemed possessed of a giant&rsquo;s strength, no
+      severe labor was required of any.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The streets and walks were paved with a soft material, yielding slightly
+      to pressure, but so firm and tough that it showed no sign of wear, an
+      ideal pavement, over which the wheels rolled as noiselessly as they would
+      over a velvet carpet. It was, moreover, laid in beautiful patterns of the
+      most varied colors. The vehicles, of which there were many kinds for
+      different uses, were so faultlessly made that they moved with the utmost
+      quiet and apparent ease, the power that propelled them being invisible.
+      There were no tracks or wires, but all were guided in any direction and
+      with any speed at the pleasure of the riders.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Thorwald led me from the vessel, and another stalwart son of Mars took
+      charge of the doctor. After walking a few steps up the street we all
+      stepped into an empty carriage without saying as much as &ldquo;by your leave,&rdquo;
+       Thorwald touched a button, and we were off.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;This,&rdquo; said Thorwald, &ldquo;is one of the best illustrations of the manner in
+      which we are applying electricity. You saw them also unloading the heavy
+      freight from the boat by the same power. So all our work is done. No
+      fleshly limb is strained, no conscious life is burdened, by any of the
+      labor of our complex society. This subtle force is so well controlled and
+      its laws are so thoroughly understood that it is equal to every demand.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I am entranced, Thorwald,&rdquo; said the doctor, &ldquo;with everything I see. But I
+      would like to ask if you own this comfortable carriage and had it sent to
+      the wharf to meet you.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I own it,&rdquo; our friend replied, &ldquo;just as I own the street we are riding
+      over or the house I live in. I own this or any other vehicle whenever I
+      desire to use it. You saw a great number of carriages near the wharf, and
+      there are several over on that corner. Anyone is at perfect liberty to
+      appropriate one to his own use at any time, and when he is through he
+      merely leaves it at a convenient place by the roadside for some one else
+      to take.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I should think they would be stolen,&rdquo; said I. Thorwald laughed at my
+      ignorance and answered: &ldquo;Why, who is there to steal when everybody, either
+      friend or stranger, can use them as often and as long as he likes?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      The talk promised to grow more interesting still, but now our attention
+      was turned to the delightful scene through which we were passing. It will
+      be utterly impossible to describe the beauty of the landscape, where
+      nature and art seemed to be striving to outdo each other. Before reaching
+      land I had imagined that the houses, if they were to be proportioned to
+      the inhabitants, must pierce the sky. But we were surprised to find that
+      they were all comparatively low, of not more than two or three stories.
+      And all, even those near the wharf, were surrounded with ample grounds.
+      Some of the houses were larger than others, some more ornate than their
+      neighbors, and the architecture varied as much as the size and arrangement
+      of the grounds. But all were beautiful beyond description. One thing that
+      appeared very strange to us was that the prevailing color of the
+      vegetation was red, although that shade did not predominate as much as
+      green does on the earth. For instance, after we had admired a stretch of
+      lawn brilliant as a crimson sky, we would come to another which would
+      surprise and please us with a lovely shade of blue. Still another was
+      green, and then one glowed with a variety of colors, whose combination
+      showed a most refined taste. As with the grass, so it was with the foliage
+      of the trees. The richest tints of our autumnal forests were here present
+      in permanence, but with a much greater wealth of coloring. Flowers, too,
+      of every hue and form were to be seen on all sides, and their appearance
+      was so perfectly natural that if they had been set with design then the
+      art itself had concealed the art of their arrangement.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      With all this mass of color there were no unpleasant contrasts, no
+      discordant tones. As, amid the bustle of the landing place, our ears had
+      not been shocked with rude noises, so now we received through our eyes
+      only a delightful sense of quiet beauty.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Riding, now slowly and now more rapidly, through such a scene, we could
+      think of nothing better to question our friend about, so the doctor found
+      his voice and said:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;This far surpasses our anticipations, Thorwald, and I am sure this place
+      must be exceptional, even on Mars. I suppose it is a resort where some of
+      your wealthy people have built themselves homes in which to enjoy their
+      leisure months.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Nothing of the kind,&rdquo; replied Thorwald. &ldquo;These people live here all the
+      year, they are not wealthy, and there is nothing to distinguish this city
+      above others.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Why, this seems more like a private park than a city. Where are your
+      crowded streets and houses for the poor?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;After all I have told you of our high civilization, Doctor, do you not
+      understand that we have long since abolished poverty?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Yes,&rdquo; answered the doctor, &ldquo;I understand that in a general way; but I did
+      not suppose everybody was rich, as it is certain everybody must be to own
+      such palaces as these.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;You are still wrong,&rdquo; said Thorwald. &ldquo;We have no such distinctions as
+      rich and poor. All our cities are of this character, only there is great
+      variety in the residences and in the way in which the streets and lots are
+      laid out. These places that we are passing are inferior to many, but no
+      houses are built that are at all mean or uncomfortable. Indeed, I think we
+      have to-day passed some of the poorest that I know of. As to the word
+      city, we use it only as a convenient expression. It really means nothing
+      more than a certain locality, for, as I told you at the beginning of our
+      conversation, we have no need of government of any kind. In some sections
+      one city runs into another, so that the whole country is filled with the
+      beauty and delight of the landscape which you see about you.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But,&rdquo; asked the doctor, &ldquo;with the population spread out in this marvelous
+      way, is there room for everybody?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Oh, yes,&rdquo; answered Thorwald. &ldquo;All the surface of our planet is brought
+      into use; the waste places are reclaimed, and there is abundant room for
+      all. And now, as this pleasant air and easy motion seem to be agreeable to
+      you, we may as well ride slowly for a while longer.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;In your intercourse with us you will find it is never necessary for us to
+      hurry when, for any good reason, we choose to loiter, and, therefore, if
+      you care to hear me talk, I will take the time to correct another wrong
+      impression you seem to have.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;You spoke, Doctor, about the people owning these houses. No one owns
+      them.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Do they belong to the state?&rdquo; asked the doctor.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;There is no state.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Well, this is a curious condition of affairs,&rdquo; resumed the doctor. &ldquo;Here
+      is valuable property belonging to no one and no government to claim it. I
+      should think anyone that happened along could take possession.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Now you are right,&rdquo; said Thorwald. &ldquo;That is just the state of the case.
+      It is with houses and all other property as I told you it was with this
+      carriage. All the right one has to any object is the right to use it.
+      Everything that has been produced by art and skill is just as free as the
+      bounties of nature, such as air and water and land, which of course no one
+      would ever dream of subjecting to private ownership.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      The doctor winced as he heard Thorwald include land among these free
+      bounties of nature, and the expression of his face did not escape the
+      quick eye of the Martian, who exclaimed:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;So you earth-dwellers are still in the habit of buying and selling land,
+      are you?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;That was the practice when we left home,&rdquo; replied the doctor. &ldquo;And I
+      cannot understand how we can do differently. Your views of property are so
+      strange to us that I am sure my companion will join me in asking you to
+      explain them more fully.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I certainly do,&rdquo; I said.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Property,&rdquo; began Thorwald, &ldquo;we do not have, but we have many of the
+      rights of proprietorship in the things we use from time to time. And what
+      other benefit than the free use of what we need could be derived from the
+      possession of things? Suppose I, for example, owned a thousand acres of
+      land and a hundred fine mansions. I could cultivate but a small part of
+      the land and occupy but one house at a time, and of what value would the
+      remainder be?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Would not such palaces as these on this beautiful street bring a good
+      rent?&rdquo; I inquired.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Don&rsquo;t be stupid,&rdquo; replied Thorwald good-naturedly. &ldquo;You must know by this
+      time that we are not a race of self-seekers, each one taking advantage of
+      the necessity of his neighbor. But I suppose it is difficult for you to
+      appreciate a state of society in which each individual considers the
+      feelings and needs of others as much as his own. With us this principle is
+      not preached any more, but it is actually practiced in all our affairs.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I will try to keep that in mind,&rdquo; I said, &ldquo;although it is a fact I can
+      hardly realize. But about this matter of houses I want to make another
+      inquiry. After you have become established in a beautiful home to which
+      you have no more right than anyone else, what is to prevent some other man
+      (I use the word for convenience) coming forward and asking you to give it
+      up to him?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Nothing,&rdquo; answered Thorwald. &ldquo;In such a case I should immediately move
+      out and let him have it, knowing he must be entirely unselfish in the
+      matter and that there must be some sufficient reason for the request.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But would you go to all the trouble of moving without even knowing his
+      reason?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Yes, I would do it to accommodate him, but then the trouble would be
+      nothing. We would merely have to go out and take another house.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But would you not have to move all the furniture?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Oh, no. We could take anything we pleased, of course, but it is not usual
+      to make radical changes. Another house would contain all that was
+      desirable. As a matter of fact, however, such removals are by no means
+      frequent. We usually remain in one place and acquire all the tender
+      associations of home which could be possible under any system. But if a
+      family should increase so that it would be better for them to take a
+      larger house, they could easily find one, or if not they would ask those
+      who are fond of that work to build one to their taste. The moment a thing
+      is made or produced it belongs to the general store, to be used by any and
+      all who need it.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Under such conditions,&rdquo; said I, &ldquo;what we call the eighth commandment
+      would be superfluous.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;If that refers to theft,&rdquo; answered Thorwald, &ldquo;you are certainly right,
+      for it is impossible to steal where everything is free.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;It will be well for you to understand how happily we have solved this
+      question of property, but of course we could not have found such a
+      solution until we had first reached a high spiritual plane and learned the
+      lesson of true brotherhood. From your words I know just about the point in
+      our development which corresponds with the present state of your race, and
+      therefore I know something of the nature of the struggle through which the
+      earth is now passing. I warn you that the unrestricted right of private
+      ownership is a menace to your civilization, all the greater because its
+      evil is probably not clearly seen. We are assured by our historians, who
+      try to point out the causes for all the great convulsions in our career,
+      that excessive individualism in property rights, with its selfish
+      disregard of others, was a potent factor in the downfall of many of the
+      enlightened nations of our antiquity. We have noticed that even our
+      animals have the instinct of possession, and it is certain that the love
+      of ownership and accumulation has been one of the hardest evils to
+      eradicate from our naturally selfish nature. If you should ever return to
+      the earth, do not neglect to signal for this danger.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But what is the remedy?&rdquo; asked the doctor. &ldquo;The system of which you have
+      been speaking might be called the mainspring of our society. I can hardly
+      imagine what we should be without it. With our note of warning, what
+      message of help will you send?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Doctor,&rdquo; answered Thorwald, &ldquo;it pleases me to hear you ask that question,
+      and I am rejoiced also that I have so good an answer for you. The remedy
+      is to be found in the law of love. Follow that law as closely as possible.
+      The way will be hard, the progress slow, but every step taken will be a
+      solid advance. It is the only safe road, and you will find that every
+      other will lead to disappointment and disaster.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      Whenever Thorwald struck these high spiritual themes he spoke with such
+      enthusiasm and positiveness that our respect for him increased rapidly.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <hr />
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2HCH0012" id="link2HCH0012"> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      CHAPTER XII. WE REACH THORWALD&rsquo;S HOME.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      All this time we had been riding leisurely along, enraptured with the
+      delightful country, while the way itself and the estates on either hand
+      offered such variety of landscape that the view never became tiresome nor
+      uninteresting.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      But as the day was waning, our friends quickened the pace and showed us a
+      burst of speed. This was most exhilarating, and soon brought us to the
+      station where Thorwald told us we were to take an express train for home,
+      which was about two hundred miles distant.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      When we alighted we left our carriage by the roadside among many others,
+      and entered an immense building. Both inside and out there were plenty of
+      people moving around, but without noise or unpleasant bustle. With no
+      delay, and also with no haste, we entered what appeared to be a smaller
+      apartment opening out of the general waiting-room. It had the appearance
+      of an elegant drawing-room, the rich but comfortable-looking furniture
+      being disposed in a careless manner, which helped to make us feel at home,
+      if anything could bring us that sensation. There was a door at each end of
+      the room, and soon these were closed and we felt an almost imperceptible
+      jar. The doctor glanced hastily at Thorwald and said:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Can it be possible that we are to travel in this apartment?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Yes,&rdquo; answered Thorwald, &ldquo;this is our modern traveling coach, and we are
+      already on our way to the city in which my friend here and I reside.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      This latter fact surprised us, for we could not perceive by our senses
+      that we were in motion. But as we sat wondering and trying to imagine
+      ourselves flying through space, the doors opened, a pleasant breeze fanned
+      our cheeks, and the doors closed again, we felt that slight jar repeated,
+      and then we were quiet once more. This occurred every two or three
+      minutes, and, remembering what Thorwald had previously told us, we
+      realized that we were riding in a perfectly tight car in a vacuum tube and
+      that these short but frequent stops were to keep us supplied with fresh
+      air.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Thorwald explained this to us again, and told us that the coaches were of
+      different sizes to accommodate large or small parties, and that one could
+      ride alone if he chose to. The cars started so frequently that it was
+      seldom necessary to wait more than a few minutes. The doctor thought there
+      must be great liability to accident, but Thorwald said:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;No, we do not consider the risk worth taking into account. Let me
+      illustrate with a familiar example. Suppose you had just seen a cable
+      tested with a ton&rsquo;s weight without a strain. Should you fear to take hold
+      of the cable and lift yourself from the ground lest it might break and you
+      should fall? The mechanism of this road is just as sure as that. The force
+      that is driving us forward is no longer mysterious. The laws of
+      electricity are well defined, and its mighty power is under perfect
+      control. Nothing is left to chance, and the result is that there have been
+      no accidents for many, many years, and practically speaking there cannot
+      be any.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      When we first entered the coach we noticed that there were no windows, and
+      as the doors had no glass we wondered why it was not dark. The light was
+      good broad daylight, exactly like that which fills a room when there are
+      good windows, but where the direct rays of the sun do not enter; and, as
+      we could see no lamps nor fixtures, we could not understand how the
+      illumination could be artificial. But such it was. We carried an electric
+      battery with us, and the lamps were out of sight, and so arranged that
+      they gave us only reflected light. The system was so perfect that the
+      imitation sunlight was just as good as the real, as far as we could
+      discover.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;This is the way we light all our interiors,&rdquo; said Thorwald, &ldquo;and of
+      course the apparatus is so governed that we can have any amount of
+      illumination we please, little or much.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      The doctor was about to ask some question in relation to this practical
+      improvement, when he was stopped by hearing a little silver-toned bell
+      ring. In an instant the doors opened, and Thorwald rose and announced that
+      we had reached the end of our journey. We could not have been in the car
+      more than fifteen minutes, and the doctor and I supposed our ride of two
+      hundred miles had just begun.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Well, if you travel at this rate,&rdquo; said the doctor, &ldquo;I do not wonder you
+      have obliterated all national boundaries, for the ends of the world are
+      right at your doors. And now, Thorwald, I would like to see the great tube
+      through which we have been carried so swiftly.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      Thorwald smiled a little and led the way through another superb
+      waiting-room out into the open air. Here the doctor looked in all
+      directions, but could see nothing of the object for which he was
+      searching.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;You have seen all any of us can see,&rdquo; said Thorwald.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;We merely step into the comfortable car, sit a few minutes, step out
+      again, and go home. In the meantime we have been carried under ground and
+      under water, across valleys and through hills, but the way itself, the
+      tube through which the car flies, is entirely hidden from sight. Where it
+      is above ground, trees and shrubbery screen it from view, so that it does
+      not mar the landscape. We think much of this, and should regret
+      exceedingly if it became necessary for any such utilitarian object to
+      interfere with our aesthetic enjoyment of nature.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      Thorwald&rsquo;s friend now took leave of us, expressing the hope that he would
+      soon see us again. He had taken some little part in our conversation, but
+      had left the burden of it to Thorwald, who was older, and who was,
+      moreover, our first acquaintance.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      It seemed singular to the doctor and me that we had attracted so little
+      attention among the people whom we had encountered since leaving the ship.
+      To give the reason for this, which we afterwards discovered, is to reveal
+      one of the pleasantest peculiarities of the Martian character&mdash;that
+      is, the entire absence of a disagreeable curiosity. Our dress and
+      appearance and the rather novel circumstances connected with our arrival
+      on the planet, which must quickly have become known, were certainly
+      calculated to excite their interest, and in a similar situation on the
+      earth there is no telling what might have happened to us from a curious
+      mob. But here all was order and quiet. Everybody went about his own
+      business and treated our party with additional respect, it seemed, because
+      some of us were strangers. We found out later how anxious all these people
+      were to learn everything about us, but they were content to wait till the
+      knowledge should come to them in a proper way.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Thorwald now selected a light, pretty carriage, and after a brisk ride
+      through another charming avenue and up a steep hill, we alighted at the
+      door of a noble mansion whose majestic proportions were in harmony with
+      the wide, open plateau upon which it stood alone. Upon entering, Thorwald
+      was at once affectionately greeted by his wife, and while he was
+      introducing us as natives of another world his son and daughter came
+      bounding toward him from an adjacent room.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      These were quite small children, but in a few moments Thorwald brought in
+      from another part of the house a young woman of about my age, apparently,
+      and introduced her as a neighbor. It needed but a glance to tell us that
+      she was beautiful as a dream, and she moved about with that exquisite
+      grace which comes only from the highest culture. She spoke to us with such
+      ease and naturalness that we were at once relieved from whatever
+      embarrassment the circumstances might easily occasion.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Antonia is our very dear friend,&rdquo; said Thorwald, &ldquo;and, although she hides
+      her curiosity so well, you will find her an exceedingly interested
+      listener to your history and adventures.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Yes,&rdquo; said the charming voice of Antonia, &ldquo;Thorwald has told me just
+      enough about you to make me want to know more. Your moon, which is so much
+      larger than our little satellites, caused a great sensation when it was
+      seen coming toward us so rapidly. The situation was well calculated to
+      cause us anxiety, if we had been subject to such a feeling, but, as usual
+      with us at the present day, it has turned out to our advantage; for it has
+      given us two such worthy representatives of a neighboring race.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I am sure,&rdquo; I answered, &ldquo;that the advantage is greatly on our side.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      I could not say more, for I was conscious that the doctor was watching
+      closely to see how I was affected by the presence of this royal girl. When
+      he saw I was inclined to be somewhat quiet he felt impelled to say
+      something, and offered the following compromising remark:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;If we had only brought Mona safely off the moon with us, you would have
+      had something more worthy of your interest than we are, and my friend here
+      also would now be in better spirits.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      Antonia had a question in her eyes but her perfect breeding kept her from
+      putting it into words, after the final expression of the doctor&rsquo;s speech.
+      Of course, I could not ignore the allusion, and said:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Mona is a friend of the doctor&rsquo;s whom I have not the pleasure of knowing.
+      I suppose he thinks her cheerful disposition, of which I have heard
+      before, would make our present situation even more enjoyable than it is.
+      Speaking for myself, however, I think that would be impossible.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      With that she rose, and, with a pleasant word of adieu to us, told
+      Thorwald she would come in another day after we were well rested.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      It was now approaching night-fall and dinner was to be speedily announced.
+      The doctor and I were shown to a suite of dressing-rooms, and as soon as
+      we were alone he said:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Do you think Antonia is as handsome as Mona?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;If you will show me Mona I shall then be able to judge. But how did I
+      carry myself on my first introduction to a daughter of Mars? Do you think
+      I am in any danger of putting her in Margaret&rsquo;s place in my heart?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Perhaps not,&rdquo; replied the doctor. &ldquo;You kept command of yourself pretty
+      well; but I think the secret of that is that you have not quite forgotten
+      Mona.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Excuse my frankness, Doctor, but I must tell you I am getting a little
+      tired of Mona. I wish I might never hear her name again. If I can resist
+      the charms of such an exquisite bundle of perfections as Antonia is, do
+      you think I am likely to be overcome by a mocking-bird of your
+      imagination?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;If you could only hear the voice of that bird once more,&rdquo; replied the
+      doctor, &ldquo;you would soon begin to sing another tune. But let us go down if
+      you are ready, and not keep them waiting.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      We had looked forward with much interest to our first meal in one of these
+      sumptuous houses, and, moreover, being quite hungry, we were glad to find
+      that we were just in time to sit down. If we had felt any fear lest the
+      absence of meat would make a meager bill of fare, the experience of the
+      next hour relieved us. The dishes were all strange, but highly palatable,
+      and the fact that there was nothing that appeared to be in the least
+      unwholesome did not detract from the delicious savor which every viand
+      possessed. The rich variety of courses and the elegance of the service
+      made it a dinner long to be remembered, and gave a new zest to our life on
+      Mars.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      It had been a long day to us, and we were allowed to retire at an early
+      hour, being conducted to adjacent and communicating rooms. But, though our
+      fatigue was great, it is not strange that we lay awake awhile, talking of
+      the wonderful things we had seen and heard. Speaking of the Martian method
+      of rapid transit the doctor said:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Besides its expedition, there is another feature to recommend their way
+      of traveling.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;What is that?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Why, there is no danger of getting a seat just behind a window fiend.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;There is something in that,&rdquo; I answered, &ldquo;but I am thinking just now of
+      our dinner. We must certainly learn how to cook eggs and vegetables before
+      we return to the earth.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      The character of our conversation, judged from these scraps, shows that we
+      had no excuse for remaining awake any longer.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <hr />
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2HCH0013" id="link2HCH0013"> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      CHAPTER XIII. A MORNING TALK.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      Next morning we arose early, but found the family already up. Thorwald
+      seemed disposed to lose no time in showing and telling us everything
+      interesting, and so invited us at once to the top of the house, to take a
+      view of the country. The sun was just rising, and its pleasant rays
+      lighted up a scene of surpassing beauty. We seemed to be set in the middle
+      of a vast park, whose boundaries extended in all directions as far as we
+      could see. The landscape presented the most varied character, wood and
+      water, hill and plain, and every feature needed to make a most delightful
+      picture. Not the least of its charms, and perhaps the greatest, was the
+      profusion of color, which filled the vision and satisfied the sense of
+      beauty with its contrasts and its harmonies. Some of the hills might
+      justly be called mountains, and yet on the rugged sides as well as on the
+      summit of each were grand mansions surrounded by cultivated fields.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The doctor made some remark about this latter fact, and Thorwald said:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;These situations, which would be almost inaccessible without the aid of
+      electricity, are now the favorite sites for building. This wonderful power
+      levels all hills in the ease with which it does its work. No task is too
+      hard for it and it asks no sympathy, so we may as well ride and carry our
+      freight up hill, if we prefer it, and build our houses on the mountain
+      tops. One characteristic of our nature has not changed, and there is still
+      a great variety of taste, so that plenty of people choose the lower land
+      to build upon. I see by your faces that you both admire this panorama and
+      think we were wise to place our house on such high ground. We like to have
+      our friends take this view in the morning, when the world has been
+      freshened by the night&rsquo;s rain.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Is it not just as beautiful at sunset after a shower?&rdquo; I asked.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Oh,&rdquo; answered Thorwald, &ldquo;I haven&rsquo;t told you that it never rains in the
+      day-time, have I?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;No, indeed, that&rsquo;s another surprise for us. But how is it managed?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;You will remember I told you,&rdquo; said Thorwald in reply, &ldquo;that it was found
+      that rain enough fell for all parts of the world if it could only be
+      rightly distributed. Then when we had discovered by a long series of
+      experiments how to make the clouds shed their water at our pleasure, we
+      set about devising a means whereby we could give each section the right
+      quantity of rain at just the right time.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;We established a central bureau in each country and let the people in
+      every city or district vote and send in their request for a shower or a
+      long rain ten days in advance. At first it required only a majority vote,
+      but this occasioned no end of trouble, as half the community would often
+      believe they were suffering for want of rain when the other half wanted
+      fair weather. Then the rule was changed so as to make a three-quarters
+      vote necessary, which did not help matters much, for very often the crops
+      would be seriously damaged before so large a proportion of the people
+      could be brought to see the desirability of a rainy day.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;At length the happy thought was conceived of letting it rain over each
+      part of the country every night, and giving the right to vote only on the
+      quantity desired. This keeps everything fresh and has been found of
+      immense benefit to vegetation. Besides, it inconveniences no one, in the
+      present state of our society, however it might have been when the plan was
+      first adopted.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;What of those people,&rdquo; I asked, &ldquo;whose occupation or pleasure calls them
+      out in the night?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;We have no such class,&rdquo; replied Thorwald. &ldquo;We have found by long
+      experience that it is best to follow the indication of nature, and take
+      the day for labor and the night for rest. This practice and the attention
+      devoted to our diet have been chief factors in lengthening the span of our
+      lives. If this line of action is best for one it is best for all, and, as
+      everybody is doing the best he can, it follows that there are literally no
+      people out at night.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I suppose you would call me stupid again,&rdquo; said I, &ldquo;if I should ask if
+      you have any such old-time personages as guardians of the peace.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Indeed I should,&rdquo; answered our friend, &ldquo;for you ought to know us better.
+      If you will excuse a poor witticism, the peace is old enough on our planet
+      to go without a guardian.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      As we smiled at this the doctor was encouraged to try his hand, but, not
+      feeling equal to addressing a pleasantry to the usually august Martian, he
+      turned to me and remarked:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;This would be a pretty poor place for an umbrella trust, wouldn&rsquo;t it?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      As we left our place of outlook and made our way down stairs, Thorwald
+      resumed:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;As I have said before, we have reached our present happy condition
+      through many bitter experiences. We read that at one time people had so
+      much work to do and were so thoughtless as to what was good for their
+      physical welfare that they began to rob themselves of their proper rest.
+      Others found it convenient to follow occupations which obliged them to
+      work all night and get what sleep they could in the day-time. Night was
+      considered about the only time that could be utilized, also, for the
+      activities of social life.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;This condition lasted a long time, with the tendency continually toward
+      the practice of encroaching more and more upon the hours of rest appointed
+      by nature. It was then the period of making many laws, and large and
+      influential legislative bodies began to set a bad example to the rest of
+      the world by holding their sessions mainly in the night. Newspapers
+      thought it necessary to appear full-fledged at the break of day, and the
+      railroads made but little distinction between darkness and daylight in the
+      matter of carrying people hither and thither. The change was slow, but it
+      was in the wrong direction. Darkness was driven out by more improved
+      methods of lighting, and houses and streets were brilliant the whole night
+      long; and it finally became the fashion in both society and business
+      circles literally to turn night into day. For a time that remained the
+      universal custom, strange as it seems to us now, but the practice of
+      sleeping in the day-time never became natural. This means that the whole
+      world was living on from year to year without the amount of rest required
+      to keep the race alive. There could be but one result. A brood of nervous
+      troubles fell upon us; life began to shorten, and we became aware that a
+      serious crisis was before us. As soon as we were convinced that we were
+      bringing all this evil upon ourselves by our disregard of the laws of
+      nature, there was a change; and it is well for us that there was still
+      virility enough left in the race to make a change possible. A gradual
+      reform was instituted which, overcoming many difficulties and delays but
+      with no serious set-backs, brought us, after long years, to our present
+      happy way. Of course, our improvement in every other direction, moral as
+      well as physical, assisted us all along in this reform. Now, looking back
+      on our course, and comparing our present with our former state, we are
+      perfectly sure what is best for us, and he would be a rash man who should
+      intimate that we are not doing right in using the night for rest.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But this is getting to be quite a long talk for so early in the morning.
+      Let us see if breakfast is not ready.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      This meal proved to be as appetizing as the first, although the dishes
+      were entirely different; being made up, apparently, of fruit and cereals.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The doctor and I had been exceedingly interested in the way the dinner of
+      the evening before had been served. We did not understand it, and now we
+      were equally puzzled to see the breakfast courses come and go. No one came
+      in to make any change in the table, and our hostess seemed to have as
+      little to do with it as the rest of us. She presided with great dignity,
+      and, as I watched the changes going on with such perfect ease and quiet, I
+      could not refrain from saying:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;If it is proper for me to ask, will you tell us how this is done, Mrs.
+      &mdash;&mdash;&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;We do not use those titles now,&rdquo; she interrupted. &ldquo;Call me Zenith, the
+      name by which I was introduced to you. I suppose Thorwald has told you
+      that electricity does nearly all our work. I arrange things in order
+      before the meal begins, and then by merely touching a button under the
+      table the apparatus is set in motion which brings and takes away
+      everything in the manner you see.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;It is wonderful,&rdquo; I exclaimed. &ldquo;And if we are to believe all that
+      Thorwald has told us, I suppose you have no servants for any department of
+      work.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;You are not entirely right,&rdquo; she returned. &ldquo;We have excellent servants.
+      This obedient power, that does our work so willingly, is our servant, and
+      so is the mechanism with which our houses are filled, and through which
+      this silent force is exerted. Many of our animals are domesticated and
+      trained to do light services, but as for servants of our own flesh and
+      blood, no such class exists. We all share whatever work there is, and no
+      labor is menial. Whatever I ask others to do I am glad to do for them when
+      occasion offers. Do not suppose we are idle. There is work for us, but
+      with our abundant strength and continual good health it is never a burden.
+      Then there are the duties connected with our higher life and education,
+      for we are ever seeking to fit ourselves for a still better existence than
+      this.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      We had now finished breakfast and were walking through the house. Zenith
+      was a beautiful woman, although, from our point of view, of such generous
+      proportions. She possessed the perfect form and the vigor and health of
+      all the Martians. She was, moreover, graceful, modest, and winning. But
+      Thorwald and the other men that we had seen possessed these latter
+      qualities also, and Zenith exhibited the same strength of mind and the
+      same devotion to lofty aims as her husband. In their equipment for the
+      duties of life and in the ability to do valiant service for their kind
+      they seemed equal. Evidently neither had a monopoly of any class of
+      advantages, either of mind, body, or estate.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <hr />
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2HCH0014" id="link2HCH0014"> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      CHAPTER XIV. PROCTOR SHOWS US THE EARTH.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      We discovered at once that the Mars dwellers understand what genuine
+      hospitality is, for we found ourselves at perfect liberty to do what best
+      pleased us without restraint from our hosts. With so much to tell us of
+      their own high civilization and with so many questions still to ask about
+      the earth, there was no haste nor undue curiosity. Much less was there any
+      attempt yet by Thorwald to resume the argument about the habitability of
+      other worlds.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      But at the same time we were aware that our friends were at our service,
+      and early in the afternoon Thorwald asked us if we could think of anything
+      we should like to see.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Yes,&rdquo; I answered, &ldquo;I should like to see the earth.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;No doubt, my friend, but I don&rsquo;t see exactly how I am going to take you
+      there.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I did not expect that,&rdquo; said I; &ldquo;but, after all you have hinted about
+      your advance in astronomical science, I thought you might give us a pretty
+      good view of the earth without going any nearer to it than we are now.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Oh, that&rsquo;s what you mean, is it? Excuse me for being so dull. Is it not
+      singular that I should wait to be asked to show you the wonders of our
+      telescopes? Zenith, let us all go with them to see their home, about which
+      we have so often speculated.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;We have many good observatories,&rdquo; continued Thorwald, speaking to the
+      doctor and me, &ldquo;some of which are noted for one line of study and some for
+      another. The one that has given the most attention to observing the earth
+      and that has the best instruments for that work is situated on the other
+      side of our planet.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Then, of course,&rdquo; said I, &ldquo;we will choose one nearer home for our visit.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Why so?&rdquo; asked Thorwald. &ldquo;It is always wise to get the best when you
+      can.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Yes, but we do not want you to take the time and trouble to make a
+      journey half around your world just because I said I would like to see the
+      earth.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Oh, our time is yours, and we will not make trouble of it; we will call
+      it a pleasure trip. We may as well take the children, Zenith; they will
+      enjoy it. How soon can you all be ready?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;In five minutes,&rdquo; answered Zenith.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Then we had better get off at once,&rdquo; said Thorwald.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      And without further words this remarkable family scattered to different
+      parts of the house and in five minutes were ready to begin a journey of
+      five or six thousand miles, and the only reason they did not start at once
+      was that the doctor and I were not quite so expeditious. We were soon on
+      our way, however, having locked no doors behind us and leaving everything
+      just as if we were to return in an hour.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      We took an electric carriage to the station, and from there went by the
+      tubular road to the metropolis. This was a great city whence there was
+      direct communication to all the principal centers of population on the
+      planet. As we had not been in any haste in making the changes necessary to
+      reach this stage of our journey, it was now late in the day, and I began
+      to wonder how we were to continue the trip without being out in the night.
+      When I mentioned my thought to Thorwald, he removed the difficulty in a
+      moment by saying:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;We simply travel west and leave the night behind us. You know the surface
+      of Mars, even at the equator, goes east at the rate of only five hundred
+      miles an hour, and as our modern cars take us much faster than that, it is
+      easy for us to keep ahead of the night by going in the right direction. So
+      in making long trips we try to travel west.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But suppose you want to go east?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Then we go west to get east, and we arrange the speed so as to get to our
+      destination in the day-time.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      We left our car and found another just ready to start for the distant city
+      in which our observatory was situated. It was a small car comparatively,
+      and we had it all to ourselves. There were all sorts of conveniences in
+      it, and we composed ourselves for a good rest. After a ride of several
+      hours we reached our destination. It was now about noon, so that we had
+      actually made nearly half a day, besides the time spent in sleep while
+      riding. I know some of my friends on the earth, who say the day is too
+      short for them, would appreciate such an improvement as that if they could
+      have it.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      We passed part of the afternoon in riding about the city. The same
+      language was spoken here as was used on Thorwald&rsquo;s side of the globe; but,
+      although communication was so easy, we found enough difference in the
+      architecture and in the general appearance of the people to make travel
+      interesting.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Toward night we all alighted at the door of the observatory, and the
+      doctor and I had the pleasure of making the acquaintance of a man of Mars
+      who had spent many years in studying the surface of the earth. It may be
+      imagined that he was glad to meet us and to get our answers to many
+      questions which had long perplexed him, some of which he had never hoped
+      to have solved.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Proctor, for this was the name by which he was introduced, was one of the
+      oldest men we had seen, and impressed us as one possessed of great wisdom.
+      His manner was so dignified, also, that it seemed quite as inappropriate
+      to address him without a title as it was to call our hostess plain Zenith.
+      But when I asked Thorwald aside what I should call him, he said:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Call him by his name, just as you do the rest of us. We have but one name
+      each.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I should think that would be confusing,&rdquo; said I. &ldquo;For example, how are
+      you to be distinguished from any other Thorwald?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;There is no other that I ever heard of. There are names enough to go all
+      around.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      As night came on we were brought face to face with the great instrument
+      whose work of observing the earth was known far and wide.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Proctor was occupied a short time in adjusting it, and then asked us if we
+      could recognize what was in the field. I motioned to the doctor, but as he
+      insisted that I should take the first view I put my eye to the glass with
+      much trepidation. Instead of the magnified disk of the earth, which I
+      expected to behold, I saw but a small portion of the surface, and that a
+      familiar stretch of coast line. I never knew whether Proctor thought by
+      our accent or by the cut of our clothes that we were New Englanders, but
+      he had so pointed the telescope that our first sight of the earth showed
+      us dear old Massachusetts Bay, with its islands and boundaries. I did not
+      speak till the doctor had looked, and then we told the others of our
+      pleasant surprise.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Proctor made another adjustment, saying he would bring the globe still
+      nearer to us, and we looked and saw a patch of beautiful green country. It
+      appeared to be but a few miles away, and we thought we ought to
+      distinguish large objects. But the appearance was deceptive in this
+      respect, and Proctor told us they had not been able to determine
+      definitely whether the earth was inhabited. They could see important
+      changes going on from time to time; they believed they could tell
+      cultivated from wild land; certain peculiar spots they called large
+      cities; and there were many such indications of inhabitants. But they had
+      not yet beheld man nor his unquestioned footsteps. As to their belief on
+      the subject, they had the strongest faith that the earth was peopled by an
+      intelligent race, and Proctor added that he rejoiced to see that faith so
+      happily justified by our presence. To which the doctor pleasantly replied
+      that he should be sorry to have him judge of the intelligence of the race
+      at large from two such inferior specimens.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      One question which Proctor asked was, whether we had ever made any attempt
+      to communicate with the other planets. We told him we had not, but that if
+      we should ever try such a thing it would probably be with Mars; but that
+      it would be useless to think of it with our present astronomical
+      attainments, for if we should succeed in attracting the attention of
+      another world we would not know it, because we could not see the answer.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Proctor said they had sometimes seen moving masses which were not clouds,
+      but which they took for smoke and were not sure but they might be intended
+      for signals. We replied that if it were smoke that they saw it was
+      probably caused by forest fires, but if we ever reached the earth again we
+      would organize a company and try to make some electric signals which they
+      could see.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <hr />
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2HCH0015" id="link2HCH0015"> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      CHAPTER XV. A NIGHT ADVENTURE
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      It was late when the conversation closed, and Proctor said we were to
+      spend the night with him of course, and in the morning he would take
+      pleasure in introducing to us the other members of his household.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The residence buildings, beautiful and commodious structures, adjoined the
+      observatory, and to each of us was given a separate apartment. After
+      Proctor had left us, Thorwald came into my room a moment and I said to
+      him:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Proctor is a friend of yours, is he not?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Certainly,&rdquo; answered Thorwald, &ldquo;what could he be but a friend? But then I
+      never saw him before today.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Is it possible? Are strangers always treated so hospitably?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I see nothing unusual in his treatment of us. We are always at perfect
+      liberty to stay where ever night overtakes us, and it makes no difference
+      with the quality of the hospitality whether the guests are acquaintances
+      or not.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      The memory of that night will remain with me many years. Before falling
+      asleep I let my mind dwell on the singular circumstances in which we were
+      placed and the strange manner of our leaving the earth. I had never
+      experienced anything that seemed more real, and yet I could not make it
+      appear quite reasonable that we were in truth living on the planet Mars.
+      All I could say was that it was an instance where the facts were against
+      the theory, and I knew that in such cases it was always safest to believe
+      in the facts. I could distinctly remember each step of our journey, and
+      there could be no mistake about our present understanding. What settled
+      the question more firmly than ever was this thought: If we were not on
+      Mars, where were we? We must be somewhere.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      By the time I had disposed of all my doubts I was becoming drowsy, and
+      then I began to think of the doctor and his unfortunate condition of mind.
+      This malady would doubtless increase and I should have to look out for
+      him, and at the same time fill the arduous position of the only sound
+      representative of our race in Mars. I resolved to try once more to make my
+      companion see how ridiculous his strange fancy was and realize the danger
+      of clinging to it.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      With this thought my brain lost coherence, and I passed over the invisible
+      boundary into dreamland. It was a beautiful evening in summer. I was at
+      home among my friends and we were sitting in the open air. The doctor was
+      there, taking his turn with me in telling the story of our adventures.
+      This went on till our listeners were tired out, and then one of the
+      company gave a little variety to the occasion by singing a capital song.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Here the scene changed to the country. It was morning in the woods. The
+      trees wore their spring foliage, bright flowers spread their beauty and
+      fragrance around us, and the air was filled with the music of birds. The
+      sweet notes of these songsters were by far the most vivid part of the
+      dream. Now loud, now soft, the unbroken melody absorbed our attention and
+      made it difficult for us to understand how our situation again gradually
+      changed, until the air became piercingly cold, the cruel wind beat upon us
+      furiously, and the violent elements seemed bent upon our destruction.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The doctor and I were alone, and the surroundings bore a strange
+      resemblance to the inhospitable surface of the moon. But what are those
+      sweet sounds still ringing in our ears? Sure no birds could live in such a
+      wild place. No, it is not a bird&rsquo;s song. It is more like a human voice. I
+      thought I had never before heard music so pure and rich. But wait&mdash;had
+      I not heard something like it once before? There was a mystery about it
+      that enhanced its sweetness. Now I was really thinking, for before I knew
+      how it happened I found myself wide awake. The dream was over, but, oh!
+      wonderful dream, the best of it remained. My sense of hearing, always
+      acute, had waked long before and left my other faculties to slumber on and
+      dream out the unreal accompaniments of a real voice. For now, with my eyes
+      open and my mind released from sleep, I still heard that marvelous,
+      half-familiar song.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Could I be deceived? I determined to know beyond a doubt that I was awake.
+      I rose and, throwing on a dressing gown, turned up the light and walked
+      about the room. I looked in the mirror to see if my eyes were open, and
+      then ate a little fruit from a tempting dish that stood on the table. In
+      one corner of the room was an elegant writing desk. I opened it, found its
+      appointments complete, drew up a comfortable chair, and, choosing pen and
+      paper, determined to record my impressions for future perusal, if by any
+      means my memory should fail me. This is what I wrote:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I, the undersigned, am in my private room in the house of Proctor, the
+      astronomer, province of &mdash;&mdash;, planet Mars. It is about the
+      middle of the night, precise date unknown. I am wide awake, in my usual
+      health, appetite good, heart a little fluttering but temperature and pulse
+      normal. I have been awakened from sleep by strains of distant music, which
+      mingled with my dreams but refused to be silenced when the rest of the
+      dreams melted away. Now, while I am writing, the delicious melody fills my
+      ears. I never before heard so sweet a voice, unless, indeed, I have heard
+      the same voice before. In regard to this I can form no present opinion. I
+      must take another time to consider it. Now I cannot think, I am so
+      engrossed in listening to the singer&rsquo;s entrancing notes. The song is so
+      full of light and cheer and sends such beautiful thoughts trooping through
+      my brain that I wish it may go on forever.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      I signed my name to this with a firm hand, and then, as I leaned back in
+      my chair to close my eyes and drink in more deeply still this rare
+      enjoyment, darkness seemed to fall suddenly upon my spirit. The voice
+      ceased, and in a moment the last sweet echoes had died away.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      I crept into bed as speedily as possible, to try to forget my sadness in
+      sleep. But oblivion would not be forced, and so I took what comfort I
+      could in thinking of that interrupted song, and in trying to feel over
+      again in memory that pleasure which my fleshly ears no longer gave me. I
+      could still recognize a distinct tinge of familiarity in the notes, but
+      when I came to the question of locating the singer I was utterly without a
+      clew. I knew well enough that there was no earthly voice which could enter
+      into the comparison, and so I need waste no time in going over that part
+      of my life. But I had heard no singing of any kind in Mars before this
+      night. How was it possible that I could have experienced that delightful
+      sensation before and not be able to fix the place or time? It was a
+      puzzling question, but I refused to give it up I knew the song, and the
+      memory of it warmed my heart with each recurring flash, but the singer I
+      did not know.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      At length I fell asleep, and woke to find the sun of Mars shining
+      pleasantly upon my bed. I recalled at once the experience of the night and
+      confirmed my memory by finding on the desk the paper I had written, and
+      still there was enough suspicion in my mind of the reality of the whole
+      thing to make me anxious to know if the doctor had heard what had so
+      impressed me. But on going to find him I discovered that he had left his
+      room, and so it happened that we did not meet till the family came
+      together in the morning reception room, in preparation for breakfast. Here
+      Proctor presented us to his wife, Fronda, and his daughters, two stately
+      girls, whom he did not name. Thorwald and Zenith kindly helped the doctor
+      and me to answer the many questions which these new friends were so eager
+      to ask, so that, as breakfast proceeded, all became engaged in the
+      conversation. My own mind, however, was somewhat preoccupied. I thought
+      perhaps Thorwald might be in haste to depart for home, and I was
+      determined not to let the company separate till I had made an attempt to
+      discover who my midnight singer was. So, when there came a convenient lull
+      in the talk, I made bold to say:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Can anyone present tell me who it was that woke me in the night &lsquo;with
+      concord of sweet sounds&rsquo;?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      A general smile passed around the table at this question, while Fronda
+      looked at me and said pleasantly,
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;It must have been Avis. She is very fond of singing and considers all
+      hours her own. I hope it did not disturb your slumbers.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;It was no disturbance, I assure you. But is Avis present? I should like
+      to thank her for the great pleasure she gave me.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;No,&rdquo; replied Fronda, &ldquo;she took an early breakfast and started out for a
+      long walk.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Then I may as well tell you all about it,&rdquo; I said.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      And I related my dream and then read to them all the paper I had written.
+      Everyone listened with the greatest eagerness and showed more interest, I
+      thought, than the circumstances as I had related them called for, but I
+      afterwards learned that they had excellent reasons for it.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      When breakfast was over I was glad to find that Thorwald seemed to be in
+      no haste to go home. I began to feel an intense longing to see Avis, and I
+      had planned, if Thorwald should insist on leaving too soon, to propose to
+      Proctor that I would stay a few days and assist him in the observatory.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The doctor and I soon found an opportunity to speak together privately,
+      and he began:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;So the voice of Avis was a little familiar to you?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Yes,&rdquo; I replied, &ldquo;but I am not able to tell from what niche in memory&rsquo;s
+      hall it comes.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Does it recall anything you heard or saw on the moon?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;That dreadful place? No, indeed,&rdquo; I replied. &ldquo;Are you going to bring up
+      Mona again?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;You asked me never to mention that name again, and now you have spoken
+      it.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Well,&rdquo; I asked, &ldquo;will you forgive me for that foolish request if I will
+      let you talk to me about her now?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I am not anxious to talk about her,&rdquo; the doctor answered, &ldquo;especially as
+      I know the topic is not a pleasant one to you.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      Without noticing this last remark, I asked abruptly:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Was Mona a good singer?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Fair.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;As good as Avis?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I think so, though I am not a critic.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Did I understand you to say she was handsome?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Beautiful.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;And I fell in love with her?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;You had all the symptoms. But why do you insist on talking on such a
+      disagreeable subject? Come, let&rsquo;s go and find Proctor.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Wait. One question more. Have you seen Avis?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Yes.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Who is she?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I believe she is a friend of the family merely.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Does she live here?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;She is staying here for the present.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Is she beautiful, too?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I shall leave you to be your own judge of that when you see her. Now, not
+      another question.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Well,&rdquo; I said, as we started to find some of the others, &ldquo;if the Mona of
+      your imagination gives you as much pleasure as Avis has given me before I
+      have seen her, I do not wonder that you cherish her memory.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      This conversation left me still more anxious to see Avis, and I looked for
+      her return every moment, but the morning passed and finally the day wore
+      to its close without bringing us together. I did not like to make my
+      strong desire known by asking after her, and, besides, I began to have a
+      slight suspicion that there was some design in keeping us from meeting.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      When it was time to retire that night I took the doctor to my room, and I
+      think it was a surprise to both of us when we fell to talking about Mona
+      again. At my request the doctor related at considerable length our
+      experience on the moon, as he remembered it, and set Mona out in most
+      attractive style. I let him go on, without laughing at him as I had
+      formerly done, and the longer he talked the more serious and thoughtful I
+      became. As he told the details of our daily life, recalling many of Mona&rsquo;s
+      words and actions, a new thought flashed through my mind&mdash;the thought
+      that possibly the doctor was right after all. At that instant, when my
+      interest was most intense, once more the distant echoes of that happy song
+      fell upon my ear.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      That was the magic influence needed for my restoration. At once, and all
+      at once, down fell the walls that had so unhappily obscured my mental
+      vision, and left my memory clear as day. I jumped from my seat, seized the
+      doctor&rsquo;s hand, and exclaimed:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I see it all now, old fellow. You were right and I was the crazy one.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Good, I rejoice with you.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      With that voice coming nearer and pouring its melody upon us, we could not
+      say more at the time. I threw myself into a chair, let my head fall back,
+      and closed my eyes to enjoy it. The doctor, feeling it to be better to let
+      me think it out by myself, stole away and left me alone.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Alone, but not lonesome, for was not Mona with me? I could see her every
+      look and motion, and experienced with a great throb of the heart that my
+      love had only strengthened with my period of forgetfulness. I remembered
+      her last words, that very likely we would never see her again. But why
+      should not she be saved as easily as we were? What if she were even now
+      afloat in the ocean? But perhaps some one had rescued her. Could she be in
+      Mars and singing for other ears than mine? Singing! Why, who is singing
+      now, right here in this very house? Can it be possible? How stupid I have
+      been. Perhaps I can see her now.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      I jumped up and rushed from the room, but was no sooner outside my door
+      than the voice began to die again, and in a moment the last notes had
+      floated away. I could not determine from which direction the song had come
+      and had no clew to guide me toward the singer. It was very late and all
+      the house was quiet. Unable to pursue my quest, I reentered my room, but
+      it was hours before I could compose my mind sufficiently to sleep. The
+      possible joy that awaited me in the morning, the dreadful fear that I
+      should be disappointed, the violent beating of my heart at every thought
+      of Mona, and my anxiety lest she might even now be exposed to danger
+      somewhere, all combined to keep me excited and restless the whole night
+      long. As I lay tossing and thinking, my most serious doubt was occasioned
+      by the reflection that people of such exalted morals would not deceive me
+      by declaring that this singer&rsquo;s name was Avis if it were not true. But
+      then I thought further that the doctor had given Mona the name by which we
+      knew her, and that Fronda would have just as much right to give her a new
+      name. Perhaps her real name after all was Avis.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      When the welcome morning came I found the doctor and gave him a hearty
+      grasp to show him that there had been no lapse in my mental condition, but
+      I asked him to say nothing to Thorwald just at present about my recovery.
+      Then we hurried down to the reception room and, early as it was, found
+      most of the household already there. After looking eagerly around and
+      seeing only those whom I had previously met, I inquired, with as little
+      apparent concern as possible:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Hasn&rsquo;t Avis appeared? I thought she was an early riser.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      To which Fronda quickly replied:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Oh, Avis was up half an hour ago, and asked me to excuse her to the
+      company, saying she was going to spend the morning with a friend she met
+      yesterday.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      This was a hard blow for me, and it was with difficulty that I restrained
+      my impatience, but I was a little consoled with the idea that the morning
+      only was to be consumed by this visit, and that we might look for a return
+      by noon.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      After breakfast, when Proctor had gone to the observatory and Fronda and
+      her daughters were showing Zenith about the house, the doctor begged
+      Thorwald to resume the talk begun on board the ship, which had been
+      interrupted by the discovery of land. As Thorwald expressed a willingness
+      to comply, the doctor continued:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;You were trying to convince me of the probability of life in other worlds
+      besides the earth and Mars, and in your attempt to show a likeness between
+      the earth and other parts of the universe, you were speaking on the
+      interesting subject of meteorites.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I remember,&rdquo; answered Thorwald, &ldquo;I was just asking you what theory you of
+      the earth hold on that important topic.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <hr />
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2HCH0016" id="link2HCH0016"> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      CHAPTER XVI. AN UNLIKELY STORY
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;If the doctor,&rdquo; I said, &ldquo;will pardon me, I will say, in relation to the
+      origin of meteorites, that our scientific men have held from time to time
+      many different theories. Some have believed that they are aggregations of
+      metallic vapors which, meeting in the atmosphere, solidify there and fall,
+      just as watery vapors solidify and come down in the form of hailstones.
+      Others have held that they are thrown out from the center of the earth by
+      volcanic action; and others still that they all came from the moon when
+      her volcanoes were active. These latter theories imply that the meteorites
+      in immense quantities are revolving around the earth, and that
+      occasionally they become entangled in her atmosphere and fall to the
+      surface.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;And now, Thorwald, I am tempted to repay all your great kindness to us
+      with an act of ingratitude, nothing less than the relation of a story.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      This rather foolhardy speech of mine made the doctor wince, and I am not
+      sure but he began to fear that my mind was weakening in a new direction.
+      But I had my own excuse for my action, which I felt that I could explain
+      to him at some future time. The fact is, I was so disturbed in my mind
+      about Mona and was anticipating so much from meeting the so called Avis,
+      that I thought I could never sit still all the morning and listen to a dry
+      scientific discussion. It seemed to me that I could stand it better if I
+      could do part of the talking myself, and so I took advantage of the
+      subject before us to propose relating an extravagant tale that I once had
+      heard.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      In contrast with the doctor&rsquo;s frowns, Thorwald showed a lively
+      appreciation and insisted that I should be heard.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Not another word from me,&rdquo; he said, &ldquo;till we have had the story.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      With such encouragement, it was easy for me to proceed.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I fear you will be disappointed,&rdquo; I said, &ldquo;for what I have rashly called
+      a story is only a fancy founded on the idea that the meteorites were at
+      some time shot out of the volcanoes of the moon. I had it from a friend of
+      mine, whose mind is evidently more open to the notion of life in other
+      worlds than is that of my companion here. As the story was written long
+      before the moon came down to visit the people of the earth in their own
+      home, the writer did not have the advantage of the discoveries made by the
+      doctor and myself, and it is well for me that the doctor&rsquo;s friend, Mona,
+      is not here to disprove any of my statements.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;On account of the smaller volume of the moon, the attraction of
+      gravitation on its surface is only one-quarter that of the earth, and it
+      is estimated that, if a projectile were hurled from the moon with two or
+      three times the velocity of a cannon ball, it would pass entirely beyond
+      her attraction and be drawn to the earth, reaching it at the rate of some
+      seven miles a second.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Now we all know&mdash;this is the way the story runs&mdash;that the moon
+      was once inhabited by a highly intelligent race. They tell us it is a
+      cold, dead world now, not at all fit for inhabitants. But that is because
+      its day is passed. Being so much smaller than the earth it cooled off
+      quicker, and its life-bearing period long since found its end. Men have
+      often speculated on the idea that our race will one day fail and the time
+      come when the last generation shall pass away and leave the earth a bare
+      and ugly thing, to continue yet longer its lonely, weary journey around a
+      failing sun. That day the moon has seen. That direful fate the race of
+      moon men have experienced. Some poor being, the last of his kind, was left
+      sole monarch of a dying world, and with the moon all before him where to
+      choose, chose rather to die with the rest and leave his world to cold and
+      darkness.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;From our own experience we do not know how high a state of civilization
+      can be reached by giving a race all the time that is needed. But we know
+      that before the inhabitants of the moon passed off the stage they had
+      attained to the highest possible degree of intelligence. They began
+      existence at a very low plane, developed gradually through long periods of
+      time&mdash;there has never been any haste in these matters&mdash;and when
+      they had reached their maturity as a race of intellectual and moral
+      beings, primitive man was just beginning on the vast undertaking of
+      subduing the earth, a task not yet accomplished.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;The incident I propose to relate occurred in antediluvian times, when
+      there were giants in the earth who lived a thousand years. Then matter
+      reigned, not mind. It was the age of brawn. Everything material existed on
+      a gigantic scale, and man&rsquo;s architectural works, rude in design but well
+      adapted for shelter and protection, were proportioned to his own stature
+      and rivaled the everlasting hills in size and solidity. And they needed
+      something substantial for protection, for war was their business and their
+      pass time. They lived for nothing but to fight. It was brother against
+      brother, neighbor against neighbor, tribe against tribe; and the man who
+      could not fight, and fight hard, had no excuse for living. War was not an
+      art, but a natural outburst of brutal instincts. A giant glories in his
+      strength and cultivates it as naturally as a bird its song. But it is
+      pleasant to consider the fact that as man&rsquo;s mental and moral qualities
+      have developed his body has become smaller. As the necessity for that
+      immense physical strength gradually passed away, nature, abhorring such
+      unnecessary waste of material, applied to us her inexorable laws whereby a
+      thing or a state of things no longer useful slowly fades away, and our
+      bodies accommodated themselves to new conditions.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But in those early times men needed great physical strength and long life
+      to bring the world into subjection, and until that was done they could
+      give little attention to the cultivation of the finer qualities of their
+      incipient manhood. They were handicapped by the fact that the lower
+      animals had had the earth to themselves a few million years, more or less,
+      and no puny race could ever have driven them to the wall.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;At length, when the conflict was well nigh over, with victory in sight,
+      men had abandoned the struggle and were using all their fierce strength in
+      fighting each other. This had been going on so long and with such deadly
+      results that it seemed as if the race must be exterminated unless some
+      superior power could step in from the outside and prevent it.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;We can easily understand that there was no such thing as science then.
+      Men considered the sun, for example, only as a very useful thing which
+      brought them light with which they could see their foe, and the moon as a
+      mysterious object sent to make the night a little less dark. Sun and moon
+      and shining stars were all set in the sky for them, and went through their
+      wonderful and complicated movements solely for their amusement.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But what was the real condition of things on the moon at that time? Why,
+      there was a race of people there of such intelligence and scientific
+      attainments that they were seeing plainly enough everything that was
+      taking place on the earth. This will not appear very strange when we
+      consider our remarkable success in scanning the surface of the moon at the
+      present day, and remember that the inhabitants of the moon were then
+      nearing the close of their history, and so at the height of their
+      civilization.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Yes, they had watched the coming of man upon the stage with the deepest
+      interest&mdash;with a neighborly interest, in fact&mdash;seeing in him the
+      promise of a companion race and one worthy of the magnificent globe which
+      they could see was so much larger than their own. Their powerful
+      instruments enabled them to see objects on the earth as distinctly as we
+      now see through our telescopes the features of a landscape a few miles
+      distant.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Keeping thus so close an acquaintance with man and all his works, they
+      rejoiced at every success he achieved over the lower forms of life, and
+      grieved at all his failures. Especially were they pained when he tired of
+      the conflict with his natural foe, and began to battle with his own kind.
+      As this inhuman strife continued, the folly and wickedness of it roused to
+      the fullest extent the interest and sympathy of the moon-dwellers, and
+      they began to ask each other what they could do to put a stop to it. They
+      themselves had long since given up war and had even outgrown all
+      individual quarrels, and they could not endure with patience what was then
+      taking place right under their eyes. But they found it easier to declaim
+      against the evil than to suggest any practical method of stopping it.
+      Although so near them in one sense, to the other senses the field of
+      conflict was some two hundred and forty thousand miles away.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;However, of what value is a high state of civilization if it cannot help
+      a neighboring world in such an emergency as this? If they could only
+      communicate in some way with men they could soon make them understand that
+      it would be better for them to cease their fighting and finish their
+      legitimate work of subduing the lower forms of creation. But how to open
+      communication! The problem long remained unsolved, the condition of things
+      on the earth in the meantime growing worse and worse. At last it was
+      suggested that a shot might be fired which would reach the earth. This was
+      a bold suggestion, but it was well known that they had explosives powerful
+      enough to carry a projectile beyond the moon&rsquo;s attraction, and no one
+      could give any good reason why such a projectile, being entirely free of
+      the moon, should not reach the earth under the power of gravitation. It
+      was determined to try the experiment, and after due preparation, which was
+      comparatively easy with their facilities, an enormous shot was hurled
+      forth. It was large enough to be seen by the aid of their powerful
+      telescopes as it sped on its way, and it was with intense interest that
+      they saw it enter the earth&rsquo;s attraction and finally strike the surface of
+      that globe. Now that so much had been accomplished, they saw immense
+      possibilities before them. What they now wanted to do was to use their
+      discovery to make men give up their fighting and turn to the arts of
+      peace.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;How could they do this? Some proposed that they should make hollow shot,
+      fill them with Bibles and other books, and bombard the earth with good
+      precepts till men should learn and be tamed. But from their close
+      observation of mankind the moon-dwellers knew they were too uncivilized to
+      get any good from books, and that they certainly could not learn without a
+      teacher. Hence arose the suggestion that missionaries be sent in place of
+      books. As soon as this idea was broached thousands of volunteers offered
+      themselves, and the plan would certainly have been attempted if there had
+      been the slightest possibility that one could live to reach the earth.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;The next proposal came from the medical profession. Long before this
+      time, when the inhabitants of the moon were sometimes governed by their
+      passions and before the day of peace and good will had fully arrived, it
+      had been discovered that what was known as the pugnacious instinct was
+      only a disease, bad blood in fact as well as in name, and a remedy had
+      been found for it. This was nothing less than the bi-chloride of comet.
+      Small comets, such as we call meteorites, were picked up on the surface of
+      the moon and put to this practical use. This medicine, administered as an
+      hypodermic injection, produced wonderful effects, the patient, although
+      afflicted with the most quarrelsome disposition, becoming as mild and
+      harmless as a lamb. However warlike one might be, a few days&rsquo; treatment
+      would take the fighting spirit out of him so completely that the mere
+      doubling up his fists and placing them in front of his face would make him
+      feel ill. Peace societies got hold of the remedy and tried it on the
+      soldiers of the standing armies with such success that war had to be
+      abandoned because the men would not fight.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;And now the old recipe was brought out, a large quantity of the medicine
+      manufactured, and bombs made and filled with it, each one containing full
+      directions for its use written in Volapiik. These were fired to the earth,
+      and, strange to say, the simple language was soon learned, and the
+      moon-dwellers had the satisfaction of seeing men rapidly metamorphosed
+      into a peaceable, friendly race. Thus the moon directly influenced and
+      governed affairs on the earth. Looked at from that distance it seems to
+      have been the most remarkable case of the tail wagging the dog that the
+      earth had ever seen.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But we may as well relate the sequel. The effect of the treatment lasted
+      only a few hundred years, and as it was the moon&rsquo;s policy never to repeat
+      a cure, men in time became as bad as ever again, and so at last the flood
+      had to come and wipe them off the face of the earth.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <hr />
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2HCH0017" id="link2HCH0017"> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      CHAPTER XVII. THE DOCTOR IS CONVINCED
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      As I finished the doctor looked somewhat bored, but Thorwald was kind
+      enough to thank me, and then, at our earnest solicitation, he resumed his
+      argument.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;You have told me,&rdquo; he said, &ldquo;of some of your earlier beliefs about the
+      origin of meteorites. Have you any more modern views?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      To this the doctor replied: &ldquo;If my friend here has really finished talking
+      for a while I will say, Thorwald, that the theories already spoken of seem
+      to be disproved by the discovery that these stones enter the earth&rsquo;s
+      atmosphere with a planetary velocity. A body falling from an infinite
+      distance&mdash;that is, impelled only by the attraction of gravitation&mdash;would
+      strike the earth with a velocity of only six or seven miles a second,
+      while the meteorites come at the rate of twenty to thirty miles a second,
+      the earth&rsquo;s rate of revolution being nineteen miles in the same time. It
+      is found that a necessary consequence of these velocities is that the
+      meteors move about the sun, and not the earth, as the controlling body.
+      Our latest study points to the conclusion that they are of cometary
+      origin, and, as comets have been known to divide, some scientists believe
+      the meteorites are fragments of exploded comets. At any rate, they are
+      found in the company of these mysterious bodies, and appear to have
+      similarly eccentric orbits.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Your studies are leading you in the right direction,&rdquo; said Thorwald. &ldquo;The
+      meteorites do indeed come from the regions of space, and if they have any
+      story to tell it is a story of those distant parts of the universe about
+      which any testimony is valuable. Let us look again at the fragment we are
+      supposed to hold in our hand. Can we tell of what it is composed, or is
+      its substance something entirely new? I am sure you must have analyzed it
+      down to its minutest particle, and if so you have found it contains
+      nothing foreign to the earth. There is not a single element in the
+      meteorite that does not exist also in the crust of the earth. Tell me,
+      Doctor, how many elements have you discovered in them?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Nearly thirty,&rdquo; answered the doctor. &ldquo;And one interesting fact is, that
+      the three elements most common in the earth&mdash;iron, silicon, and
+      oxygen&mdash;are also found most widely distributed among the meteorites.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;That is an exceedingly significant fact,&rdquo; said Thorwald; &ldquo;and now do you
+      not see how strongly the meteorites confirm the story of the spectrum, and
+      how everything tells us the universe is one in its physical structure? By
+      these two widely different sources of information you find that beyond
+      doubt other heavenly bodies are made of like materials with the earth. Is
+      it not time now to give your imagination just a moment&rsquo;s play and look
+      upon some of those distant orbs as the probable abode of life?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;There I cannot follow you,&rdquo; responded the doctor. &ldquo;I am wanting in
+      imagination; probably born so, as some people are born without an ear for
+      music. Let us stick to facts. Among the recent discoveries in the field of
+      which we have been talking was the finding of some small diamonds in a
+      meteoric mass. Upon this some enthusiastic writer, whose imaginative soul
+      would be your delight, Thorwald, built this argument: &lsquo;Diamonds being pure
+      carbon, their existence necessitates a previous vegetable growth. Hence
+      vegetable life in other worlds is proven, and if vegetable life, it is
+      fair to presume the existence of animal life also. Of course, then, there
+      must be intelligent life, and therefore the stars, or the planets that
+      revolve around the stars, are all filled with men.&rsquo; This I call not
+      reasoning, but guessing.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;And still,&rdquo; quickly responded Thorwald, &ldquo;the discovery of diamonds in
+      meteorites was a valuable link in the chain of evidence which you are
+      putting together. Keep on with your investigations. Some time positive
+      knowledge will come to you as it has come to us. But let me appeal once
+      more to your reason. At an earlier stage of development your race no doubt
+      believed the earth was the center of the universe, around which all the
+      heavenly bodies swept in magnificent circles. You have learned that the
+      earth itself, which was formerly thought to be so important an object, is
+      only one of those heavenly bodies flying through space. You find the earth
+      resembles its nearest companions in being subject to the same laws of
+      motion which govern them, but you have yet to learn that they resemble the
+      earth in the main purpose of their creation. You go into the forest and
+      see thousands of trees. You can find no two alike, and yet all are alike
+      in every material respect. Even the myriads of leaves are all different,
+      and yet all alike. So why may not the millions of stars that fill the sky
+      be like our own sun and like each other, differing in such immaterial
+      things as size and brilliancy, color and constitution, but alike in the
+      chief object of their being, the giving of light and heat, as vivifying
+      forces to dark bodies surrounding them? And why may not these planets
+      resemble the earth in being, at some stage of their existence, the theater
+      of God&rsquo;s great designs?
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Let me try to excite your imagination in another way, Doctor. Suppose you
+      should by and by awake and find this visit to Mars only a dream, and then
+      suppose it should be revealed to you in some superhuman way that man was
+      indeed the only race of intelligent beings in the whole universe; that the
+      other planets and all the stars were of no real use; that not one world
+      from that vast region of the milky way and far distant nebulae would ever
+      send forth a note of praise to its Creator, and that the tiny earth was,
+      after all, the center and sum of the universe&mdash;tell me, would you not
+      feel lonesome?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;When you put it in that way, Thorwald,&rdquo; replied the doctor, &ldquo;I begin to
+      see how unreasonable my position must appear to you. But, however pleasant
+      the idea, I do not see how I can believe that other worlds are inhabited
+      without more evidence than we now possess. This is speaking, of course,
+      without the knowledge we have gained since coming here. But I do not mind
+      saying that your talk has made me wish I could believe it.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      I was glad for several reasons that the doctor acknowledged as much as
+      this. First, for Thorwald&rsquo;s sake; for I had been thinking the doctor&rsquo;s
+      obduracy was proving a poor reward for our friend&rsquo;s great kindness to us.
+      I rejoiced, too, that my companion was beginning to show our new
+      acquaintance that, although he had little imagination, he was possessed of
+      a good heart. And, finally, I was myself so much in sympathy with
+      Thorwald&rsquo;s views that I was glad to see his arguments begin to make some
+      impression on the doctor&rsquo;s mind.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      But now it seemed to me that Thorwald had much to tell us from his own
+      experience. He had talked so far on this subject from the standpoint of
+      our earthly knowledge, but had hinted more than once that the inhabitants
+      of Mars had more positive evidence than we had ever dreamed could be
+      possible. So I said:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Your arguments have been very acceptable to me, Thorwald, but can you not
+      strengthen even my faith by speaking now from the results of your own more
+      advanced studies? We must base our belief in the existence of life outside
+      the earth on mere probabilities, which, however strong, lead only to
+      theory and leave us still in doubt. Have you any certain knowledge on the
+      subject, or, I might say, had you any before we came to see you?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Oh, yes,&rdquo; replied Thorwald, &ldquo;we have long had evidence almost as positive
+      as your presence here, fresh from one of our sister planets. It will give
+      me great pleasure to tell you of some of our marvelous achievements in
+      astronomy. The doctor says he would like to believe in the habitability of
+      other worlds; he must believe in it before I am through if he has any
+      faith in me.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I would like to say, to begin with, that whatever we have accomplished in
+      this science you on the earth can accomplish. I know enough by comparing
+      your development with our own to feel sure that our present condition
+      foreshadows yours, and that all the knowledge we possess in various
+      directions will come in time to you. Let nothing discourage you in your
+      quest for knowledge. If you seem to have arrived at the limit of
+      possibilities in the telescope, for example, have patience. Difficulties
+      which you think insurmountable, time will remove, and you will be able to
+      penetrate more and more into the mysteries of the universe.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Our telescopes have gradually increased in power until we have been able
+      to accomplish things that you will no doubt think truly marvelous. But,
+      before you call any achievement in this science impossible, just look back
+      and compare the ignorance of the early inhabitants of the earth with your
+      present knowledge; and do not be so proud of the wisdom already attained
+      that you cannot also look forward to an enlarged comprehension of things
+      you now call mysteries, and to a much closer acquaintance with the works
+      of God.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;To our increasing vision the heavens have continued to unfold their
+      wonders. We have penetrated far into the depths of space only to marvel,
+      at each new revelation, at the power and wisdom of the Creator. The number
+      of stars discovered to our view would be incredible to you, and yet it
+      will be interesting to you to learn that we can still place no bounds to
+      creation. We have, it is true, found the limits of what we call our
+      universe and have mapped out all its boundaries. When this had been done
+      we tried to pierce the surrounding darkness, but for a long time, in spite
+      of our belief that we could not yet see the end, all beyond seemed a void.
+      Recently, however, our faith has been rewarded, for we can now see other
+      universes, buried in far space but revealed dimly to the higher powers of
+      our telescopes.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But you are doubtless eager to hear of some more definite knowledge
+      gained from this wide domain. Well, we have determined the distances,
+      size, and motions of many of the stars, resolved star clusters and
+      nebulae, solved the mystery of the double and variable stars, and, what is
+      of more consequence than all these things, we have in many instances
+      discovered the secondary bodies themselves, revolving around a central
+      sun. We now know, what we so long suspected, that the rolling stars are
+      suns like our own, giving light and heat to attending worlds. With this
+      knowledge, can you wonder, Doctor, that we acquired the belief that these
+      worlds, resembling so much the planets of our own system, are fit homes
+      for intelligent beings?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I cannot see,&rdquo; replied the doctor, &ldquo;that such a belief necessarily
+      follows your discovery, which, I must own, was an exceedingly valuable
+      one. I can readily believe that each star that shines in our sky is a sun
+      surrounded by dependent bodies so dark as to be invisible through our
+      terrestrial telescopes, but still I presume even your instruments are not
+      powerful enough to find any inhabitants on those distant worlds?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;No,&rdquo; replied Thorwald, &ldquo;but for what other conceivable purpose were these
+      bodies created?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I frankly acknowledge that I am not able to answer that question,&rdquo; said
+      the doctor. &ldquo;If you have many more wonderful discoveries to relate I shall
+      soon have to own myself convinced.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I am trying to convince your reason,&rdquo; resumed Thorwald, &ldquo;without the aid
+      of positive evidence, but I may as well proceed now to show you what
+      further knowledge we have gained.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;The nearer planets of our own solar system have been naturally the
+      objects of our close scrutiny. As our telescopes increased in power we
+      diligently studied the surface of these globes, searching for signs of
+      life. We mapped out their features, noted the various phenomena of season
+      and climate, and discovered many ways in which they seemed to be like our
+      world. But for a long time we found no direct evidence that they were
+      inhabited.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;At length, however, one ardent philosopher, full of hope, as we all were,
+      that we had neighbors on some of these globes, brought out the idea that
+      if these neighbors were as far advanced in astronomical science as we
+      were, there ought to be some means of communication between one world and
+      another. The thought took at once, and occasioned the most lively
+      interest. We had no doubt, from what we had learned of these planets, that
+      they were fitted to be, at some time, the home of intelligent beings. Our
+      question was whether the inhabitable period of either of them coincided
+      with that of Mars, and, if so, whether the race was sufficiently developed
+      to be able to see us as well as we could see them.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;The first means suggested to attract the attention of such a race of
+      beings was fire. You can imagine that we could get together material
+      enough to make a pretty big blaze, and we did. We lighted immense fires in
+      various places and kept them burning a long time, but without
+      accomplishing anything. We scanned minutely the surface of each planet,
+      but saw no sign anywhere that our effort at communication was recognized.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Disappointed, but not discouraged, we determined next to try a system of
+      simple hieroglyphics by throwing up huge mounds on one of our plains. We
+      thought, if other eyes were studying Mars as closely as we were searching
+      the surface of our sister planets for signs of life, that they would
+      notice any unusual change in our appearance. Then if they did notice it we
+      hoped some means would be found to let us know it.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;It was decided to try first the figure of the circle, because we knew
+      that the form of all heavenly bodies must be the most familiar to
+      intelligent life wherever it existed. It took years of labor to construct
+      the mound, for it was thought best to have it large enough to give the
+      experiment a thorough trial. And now you may believe we considered
+      ourselves well repaid for all our toil and expense when, soon after the
+      circle was completed, our telescopes showed us a similar form actually
+      growing upon the surface of both Saturn and Uranus. We immediately replied
+      by beginning the construction of a square, and before this was finished
+      both planets began to answer, one with the triangle and the other with the
+      crescent. The latter was made by Uranus, and as soon as it was finished
+      the triangle began to appear beside it, showing to us that Uranus was
+      reading from Saturn also.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Other signs followed, although, of course, the work was very slow, and
+      the experiments are still in progress. Some slight beginning has been made
+      toward the interchange of ideas. The time and labor required will alone
+      prevent extended communication, which would make it possible to form, in
+      the course of ages, a mutual language. As we were the first to start it we
+      propose to try to control the conversation, but if Saturn and Uranus
+      choose to steal our idea and gossip between themselves, we know of no way
+      to stop them.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      As Thorwald proceeded with this marvelous recital, it was interesting to
+      watch the doctor&rsquo;s face. It was so apparent to me that he was fast losing
+      his skepticism that I was not surprised to hear him say:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Thorwald, one fact is worth more to me than a world of theory, and if you
+      had begun by relating this wonderful experience you would not have found
+      me so incredulous. Who could refuse to believe with such testimony before
+      him? What news this will be to take back to the earth! But you have,
+      doubtless, other discoveries to relate to us. Excuse me,&rdquo; the doctor
+      continued, turning to me, &ldquo;for interrupting, even for a moment, our
+      friend&rsquo;s most interesting discourse.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Let me say,&rdquo; resumed Thorwald, &ldquo;that your interruption has been helpful
+      to me, for now I know you have lost your doubts and believe with us in
+      this matter.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;These efforts at communication have occupied us for generations, and the
+      close study which we have been obliged to give to the surface of the other
+      planets has made us well acquainted with their characteristics. We have
+      found many likenesses to our own world, as well as various points of
+      difference. The succession of the seasons has been an interesting
+      phenomenon. We have watched with delight the ever-changing rings of our
+      neighbor, Saturn, and can show you pictures of them as they were thousands
+      of years ago.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;We have taken great pleasure in observing the round of seasons on the
+      surface of the earth, not dreaming that we should ever have the privilege
+      of talking face to face with its inhabitants.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Well, now that we are here, Thorwald,&rdquo; said the doctor, &ldquo;we want to get
+      all the information possible. So please go on and tell us more of your
+      discoveries. How about those bodies that you have found circling like
+      planets around other suns? Have you any evidence in regard to their
+      inhabitants? Your telescopes cannot surely bring any such bodies near
+      enough to enable you to communicate with them.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;True,&rdquo; replied Thorwald, &ldquo;but this is another instance where nature has
+      lent us her assistance. If you have been surprised at some things that I
+      have already said, you will probably find what I am about to relate
+      equally outside of your experience.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <hr />
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2HCH0018" id="link2HCH0018"> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      CHAPTER XVIII. STRUCK BY A COMET.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;The most remarkable event in the realm of matter that ever occurred in
+      connection with this planet, of which we have a record, was its collision
+      with a comet. This was many ages ago and it made an epoch in our history,
+      so that we say such a thing occurred so many years before or after the
+      collision. Although the records are rather meager we know enough of the
+      details to have a fair understanding of the wonderful event.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;The comet had no established period, as so many others have, but seemed
+      to be an entirely new-comer, and from its first appearance showed plainly
+      that it was making straight for our planet. The astronomers predicted at
+      once what the inevitable result would be, and you can imagine the
+      consternation of the world as this monstrous, fiery object bore down upon
+      us, increasing in size and splendor every day, until it filled half the
+      sky and threatened to engulf us in flame and destruction. There seemed to
+      be no possible escape, and, in fact, there was to be no escape from a
+      collision, but almost all the harm that followed was the result of pure
+      fright. For as the comet came rushing upon us the whole hemisphere of Mars
+      was filled with its blazing substance, which appeared, however, to burn
+      itself out in our atmosphere, and to leave, in most cases, nothing to
+      reach the ground.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Perhaps you have seen a shower of falling stars on the earth, brilliant
+      and threatening in appearance, but causing in reality little damage. So
+      the comet came to us. Its immense, fiery volume, which filled us with such
+      dread, was so diffused that it was nearly all consumed by impact with our
+      atmosphere. But there was a great solid nucleus, which struck the ground
+      with immense force, and remains as our largest meteorite.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Thus not only was our world spared from destruction, but that which
+      threatened to be such an evil proved to be a great acquisition. For the
+      comet, as it is still called, has revealed to us the most astonishing
+      secrets. For a long time the mass of matter lay untouched, superstition
+      and the lack of scientific curiosity tending to preserve it as it fell.
+      But at length the spirit of inquiry proved to be too strong, and within a
+      comparatively recent period the comet has been broken into and explored
+      with wonderful results.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;You must know, to begin with, that this greatest natural curiosity on the
+      face of our planet is no common meteorite such as you are acquainted with.
+      Indeed, if it had struck the earth as fair a blow as it did us I think the
+      shock would have been felt much more severely by your little race, for it
+      is hundreds of miles in diameter and the velocity with which it was
+      traveling was simply incredible. Fortunately it fell upon an uninhabited
+      plain, partly burying itself in the ground, and for several years the mass
+      was so hot that it could not be approached. This helped to make it an
+      object of awe and almost of veneration, so that many centuries of time
+      passed before any critical examination was made of it. Even then nothing
+      was accomplished toward revealing its marvelous secrets. The surface was
+      found to be hard and metallic, with the familiar burned appearance caused
+      by contact with the atmosphere, and the substance, in its chemical
+      composition, resembled, with some variation, other meteoric specimens.
+      Some attempt was made to penetrate into the interior of the mass, but all
+      that was discovered led to the belief that it was of similar structure
+      throughout.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;This was the extent of the knowledge obtained of the interesting object
+      until the beginning of the present age of advanced civilization.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;When we had learned by our successful experiments that some of our sister
+      planets were inhabited, and when our powerful telescopes had revealed what
+      we believed to be planets of other systems, there was intense interest in
+      the search for any evidence of life in these more distant worlds. They
+      were so very far away that we doubted if we could ever know enough about
+      them to tell whether they were habitable, and it seemed as if we could
+      only judge of their condition from analogy with our own solar system.
+      These views prevailed until the brilliant suggestion was made, and it is
+      not known by whom it was first advanced, that perhaps we had, right here
+      with us, the means of discovering what we so much desired to know. It had
+      always been assumed that our comet was of uniform structure, but why let
+      such a matter rest in uncertainty? It is one of the strange things in our
+      history that this question was not seriously asked long before that time.
+      But now that the idea was broached the work was entered into with great
+      earnestness.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;This was the position: Here was this huge mass that had come to us from
+      some unknown region of the sky, almost certainly from beyond the bounds of
+      our solar system, and we were to pry into it to see if it had any story to
+      tell us of its former condition. The advancement of science had given us
+      the means of easily penetrating into the interior of the comet, and it was
+      determined to make thorough work of it. And this feeling was found to be
+      necessary, for the enterprise proved to be discouraging for many years. An
+      immense tunnel was made through the entire mass, and nothing was found to
+      repay the trouble. Many were now in favor of abandoning the work, but
+      after a period of rest another trial was decided upon and a second tunnel
+      begun. Never did perseverance have a more perfect reward; for, before the
+      new excavations had proceeded far, discoveries were made which suddenly
+      changed our comet, in regard to which most people had lost all interest,
+      into the most wonderful object in all the world.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;In short, we now know that we have here a fragment of a former planet.
+      How the planet was dismembered and how this piece happened to come flying
+      to us, we do not know. But could it have come about more fortunately for
+      us if it had all been designed by an over-ruling power? When we had
+      learned all that our expanding but limited intelligence could teach us of
+      the other parts of the universe, and when our minds were ripe for more
+      knowledge, we found this magnificent object lesson, which had been waiting
+      for us all these years. Beneath the uninviting surface of that familiar
+      comet were revealed wonders which, if they had been discovered when the
+      mass first came, would not have been half-appreciated, but which now told
+      us, in answer to our eager inquiries, more than we ever thought to know
+      about the far-distant works of our God.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      The doctor and I were amazed beyond measure by this recital, and were
+      quite ready to admit that a superior intelligence had directed the
+      wonderful event. But we were exceedingly anxious to know some of the
+      details of the discovery, and when the doctor had expressed this wish
+      Thorwald proceeded:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I could talk on this subject,&rdquo; he said, &ldquo;till night-fall if you desire,
+      but it will be better for you to restrain your curiosity till you can be
+      taken in person to the scene. Let me tell you in general terms what you
+      will find. The comet fell, as I have said, in an uninhabited plain, but it
+      is now at the door of the largest city on our planet, which has been built
+      there since the discoveries were made. The excavations have left an
+      immense opening, where galleries and chambers of great extent have been
+      dug out. These have been finished off with untold labor, and new ones are
+      being constantly added. Here is our greatest museum, beside which all
+      other collections of natural objects are as nothing, for all that has been
+      found in the comet remains there; nothing has been allowed to be taken
+      away. You will appreciate something of the wonderful character of these
+      curiosities when I tell you that they give evidence of a world many times
+      larger than Jupiter and of an intellectual and spiritual development as
+      much beyond ours as ours is in advance of that of the earth.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;We have exhumed buried cities in our own planet more than once, where
+      volcano or other convulsion had overwhelmed them, and found the relics of
+      past civilization; but here, in our comet, we look not upon the past but
+      upon the future, as it were, and see what has been done in a world much
+      older than our own. The belief that the comet did not originate in our
+      solar system has been verified, for we find that the globe of which it was
+      once a part revolved around an immense sun which had a retinue of
+      twenty-seven planets of various sizes. Whether this great sun is one of
+      the stars of our firmament we can only conjecture; perhaps in some future
+      state of existence we shall know.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;You have wondered if the earth will ever advance to the condition in
+      which you find us, and we are asking the same question in regard to
+      ourselves and the still higher development exhibited in our comet. My
+      opinion is that these very discoveries are to be in a measure the means of
+      our advancement. We are only beginning to make out their wonderful
+      character. As we learn more of them we hope to find out more closely how
+      that people lived, and to be directed in our upward path by their example.
+      In the pursuit of this knowledge we are hampered by our ignorance of their
+      language. All that we know of them and their planet has been gained by
+      their very suggestive pictures and illustrations, for of their written
+      records, which exist in great abundance, we can as yet make nothing. In
+      our former studies of the different languages of our own world we found
+      something common to them all, upon which we could work; but in this case
+      an entirely new principle seems to obtain, and the problem so far baffles
+      all our skill. So you see here is something for us to do, and when we have
+      accomplished the task, as I have no doubt that result will come, we shall
+      then be able to study in detail that remarkable civilization the knowledge
+      of which is wisely kept from us until we can understand and appreciate it.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;You come here from your young planet, representing a race that is still
+      struggling with the lower forms of materialism, and find us so much in
+      advance of your condition that perhaps you imagine we are perfect. We
+      ourselves know we are far from that state, especially since we have been
+      able to compare our development with the higher civilization of the people
+      who once lived on our comet.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      Thorwald paused a moment, and the doctor, who showed by every indication
+      that he was engrossed in the subject, took occasion to remark:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;We certainly have harbored the thought you attribute to us, Thorwald.
+      After all you have told us of your freedom from trouble, of the
+      dethronement of selfishness and the reign of love, of your great
+      achievements in every art, and of your ideal life in general, we shall
+      always look upon you as a perfect race. How is it possible to rise to a
+      higher plain? Can you express in terms suited to our comprehension your
+      idea of that advanced state of existence of which you find indications on
+      your comet? What is the character of that development?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;You will perhaps understand something of its character,&rdquo; answered
+      Thorwald, &ldquo;if I say it is almost entirely spiritual. While we have made
+      some progress in that direction, our superiority over the earth-dwellers
+      is chiefly in physical and intellectual attainments. In the realm of the
+      spirit we have yet far to go, and as long as we can see imperfections in
+      our nature we feel that there is something ahead for us to strive after.
+      With that example before us of a much more exalted life, we shall not be
+      satisfied until we have learned its secrets and attained to its
+      perfections. In this upward march we shall be sustained and helped by the
+      same divine Power that has thus far led us.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <hr />
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2HCH0019" id="link2HCH0019"> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      CHAPTER XIX. I DISCOVER THE SINGER.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      We were much impressed by Thorwald&rsquo;s earnest words and manner, and we
+      began to realize that the civilization of Mars was above our most exalted
+      conception. I had been so carried away by the topics which I had feared
+      were going to be uninteresting that I had lost some of the restlessness of
+      the morning, but as our sitting broke up and I noticed it was drawing near
+      noon my anxious thoughts returned. Finding Fronda and learning from her
+      from what direction Avis might be expected to come, I determined to go out
+      alone and see if I could meet her. I managed to get away without the fact
+      being noticed, as far as I could discover, and started down the walk at a
+      brisk pace. The houses were a good distance apart and were all attractive
+      enough to draw out both wonder and admiration, had my mind been in a
+      condition to appreciate their beauty. Occasionally an electric carriage
+      would pass me, but the first pedestrian I met was a woman of noble bearing
+      and about the age of Fronda, I should judge. After all I had heard of the
+      physical and mental perfections of the inhabitants of Mars, I did not
+      expect to see any but good-looking people. In this we were never
+      disappointed, though still there were gradations of beauty even there.
+      This woman whom I had met must have been at one time strikingly handsome,
+      and if time had robbed her of any of that quality it had made it up by
+      giving her a rare sweetness that fully atoned for the loss. As I was about
+      to pass her she looked at me with such a pleasant and agreeable curiosity
+      that I stopped and said:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Pardon me, but may I ask you a question?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Certainly,&rdquo; she answered in a charming voice, &ldquo;and I shall be very glad
+      to help you in any way. I recognize that you are one of the
+      earth-dwellers, and I have met your companion the doctor.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Is it possible? I wonder he has not told me of such good fortune. But
+      this is the question I wanted to ask you. As you came along this path did
+      you see a young girl named Avis?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I did not, I am sure. I have met no young girl, and I could not see any
+      one by the name of Avis.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Why so?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Because there is no such girl.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Excuse me,&rdquo; I said, &ldquo;but probably you do not know her. I have just come
+      from one of the houses yonder, where she is expected about noon, and I
+      came out to try and meet her.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Do you know her?&rdquo; she asked.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;No&mdash;or, rather, I hope so; I cannot tell till I see her.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;That&rsquo;s curious. Have you ever met her?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I am not sure. I hope I have. I cannot explain it to you just now, but
+      the minute I put my eyes on Avis I shall be able to answer all your
+      questions.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But her name cannot be Avis.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Oh, yes, it is. It is quite plain that you do not know her.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I beg your pardon,&rdquo; she returned, &ldquo;there is but one person in all this
+      country by the name of Avis.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Then that is the very person I am trying to find.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;You have found her.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Where?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Right here. I am she.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      I laughed outright and said:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Oh, no, you must be mistaken. I do not mean to be disrespectful, but the
+      Avis I am looking for is young, younger than I am&mdash;evidently another
+      person of your name, whom you have never met.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;How do you know she is young?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Why,&rdquo; I answered, &ldquo;of course she is young.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      And then, when I thought of it a moment, I remembered that no one had told
+      me her age, but I added:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I know she is young, because I have heard her sing.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      It was now my companion&rsquo;s turn to laugh, but although her merriment was at
+      my expense its expression, like all her actions, was exceedingly pleasing.
+      The thought occurred to me that even the most cultured of the earth&rsquo;s
+      inhabitants have still much to learn in the realm of manners.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Oh, do you imagine,&rdquo; she asked, in the midst of her laughing, &ldquo;that you
+      can tell one&rsquo;s age in Mars from the quality of the voice? Does this Avis
+      of yours sing well?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Excellently well. Until I heard her I had supposed there was but one
+      singer anywhere, in earth, sun, moon, or star, possessed of such a sweet
+      and thrilling voice.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;And where, if I may ask, did you find that one?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Oh, the doctor and I discovered her in our travels. I will tell you all
+      about her when I have more time. Now will you excuse me while I continue
+      my search for Avis?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;You have forgotten,&rdquo; she answered, &ldquo;what I told you. I am Avis.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Not my Avis, the singer.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Yes, the very same, and I can prove it.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;How?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      She answered by turning half around, lifting her head, and sending out on
+      the air one full, rich note. It poorly describes my emotions to say I was
+      astonished. If I had been blind and dependent only on what I heard at that
+      moment, I should have thrown myself at her feet and called her Mona. It
+      brought back to me not only every expression of Mona&rsquo;s marvelous voice,
+      but also every feature and every grace which had formerly so bewitched me.
+      If I had loved her passionately when we were together in the body, it
+      would be difficult to characterize my feelings now that she was present
+      only in memory. These sensations swept over me rapidly, but before I could
+      utter a word my companion spoke again:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I see you hesitate. Let me complete my proof by saying that you are
+      visiting, with Zenith and Thorwald, at the house of Fronda, and have heard
+      me sing two nights in succession.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Then,&rdquo; I exclaimed, with sorrow and despair in my voice, &ldquo;I have indeed
+      found Avis, but, alas! I have once more lost Mona.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;How so?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Why, don&rsquo;t you see? I expected to find Mona and lose Avis. I thought Avis
+      was Mona, a thought born partly of hope, I suppose, but it did not seem
+      possible that there could be two such singers. So you are really Avis. I
+      must try and remember that, and not express any more sorrow at not losing
+      you. If Avis could not be Mona it is certainly a great consolation to find
+      her in you. Let me return with you to Proctor&rsquo;s; and now, will you not
+      sing for me as we walk?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Are you so fond of singing, or is it because you like to be reminded of
+      Mona?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Both, I assure you.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Does my voice sound like hers in conversation?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Oh, no, Mona never talked as we do. Everything she wanted to say she
+      sang.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;You surprise me,&rdquo; said Avis. &ldquo;I should think she would soon become
+      tiresome to her friends.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;If you had ever known her you would not make such a remark as that.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I beg your pardon,&rdquo; she quickly returned. &ldquo;I presume you are right. And
+      now, to atone for wounding your feelings, I will sing till we come in
+      sight of Fronda&rsquo;s house.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I thank you very much, and I promise you I shall walk as slowly as
+      possible.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      She sang some sweet little things for me as we sauntered along, attracting
+      me powerfully and making it easier for me to conceal my great
+      disappointment.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      When we reached the house Avis explained, in a few pleasant words, the
+      fact of our acquaintance, and as soon as family and guests were all
+      gathered for the noonday lunch I told them about my peculiar forgetfulness
+      of what had occurred on the moon and then about the manner in which the
+      events had been brought back to my mind. They showed more interest in the
+      latter part of my relation than in the former, and when I was through the
+      doctor said:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I must confess to you now, my friend, that I told these good people
+      something about your aberration. It was entirely for your own sake, for I
+      wanted their help in bringing about your recovery, and now that we have
+      been successful I hope you will forgive me.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;You know there is nothing to forgive,&rdquo; I replied. Then Zenith said:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;The doctor implies that we have all helped in the happy result, but I can
+      tell you that it is entirely due to himself and Avis. He happened to meet
+      Avis and heard her sing. He was struck at once with the likeness between
+      her voice and Mona&rsquo;s, about whom he had told us, and he conceived the idea
+      that if you could hear it when you were alone, say in the night, and not
+      know who the singer was, it might be the means of bringing the forgotten
+      circumstances all back to you. From what the doctor has told us we have,
+      every one of us, fallen in love with Mona, and I presume when we get your
+      estimate we shall think none the less of her. If I am correctly informed
+      you found her especially attractive.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;In answer to your kind expressions of interest in me, Zenith, I will say
+      that, in spite of my appreciation of what you are all doing for us, I
+      shall never see another really happy moment until Mona is found.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Then,&rdquo; quickly responded Thorwald, &ldquo;we must redouble our efforts to find
+      her. I must tell you that ever since the doctor first acquainted us with
+      the loss of Mona we have had parties searching for her in all that part of
+      the ocean.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;How thoughtful you are,&rdquo; I exclaimed. &ldquo;But why do we not hurry home?
+      Perhaps she is found.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I regret to add to your sorrow,&rdquo; said Thorwald, &ldquo;but we should learn of
+      it here as quickly as at home, for I am in constant communication with my
+      friends who are conducting the search. Still, we have been staying here
+      for you and can now bring our visit to a close at any time.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      So after lunch we bade adieu to Proctor and his household, and started for
+      home, the same way we went out&mdash;that is, by going west again. As we
+      made a leisurely journey and enjoyed a good night&rsquo;s rest on the way, it
+      was just before noon when we arrived at Thorwald&rsquo;s house. Here we found
+      Antonia, who had been advised of our coming by telephone, and had prepared
+      a nice lunch for us. Just as we were all about to sit down to enjoy it, a
+      young man entered unannounced and, without formal invitation, joined us in
+      gathering about the board. This was not an instance of undue familiarity,
+      as we soon discovered, but illustrated again the free and hearty
+      hospitality of these generous people.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Foedric,&rdquo; said Thorwald, as soon as the guest had been greeted, &ldquo;let me
+      present you to these two friends from the earth. You doubtless have heard
+      of their arrival.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I have,&rdquo; answered Foedric, &ldquo;and I am exceedingly pleased to make their
+      acquaintance.&rdquo; And then turning to the doctor, he said:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;We shall not let Thorwald and Zenith have the monopoly of your company
+      while you are visiting our world. Many others are anxious to see you and
+      to learn something of our sister planet.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;There is not much to learn,&rdquo; said the doctor, &ldquo;from such an unripe race
+      as we represent, and I must say your people have not exhibited any
+      unpleasant curiosity.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I am glad you have not been annoyed. We understand too well what is due
+      you as our guests to crowd our attentions upon you, but you will allow me
+      to say that already the main facts in your case are known all over our
+      world, and our scientists are discussing the earth and its inhabitants in
+      the great light of the knowledge which you have brought.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      Foedric spoke with ease, and yet with entire absence of youthful pedantry.
+      The doctor and I could but admire his fine face and robust form, as well
+      as his manly courtesy and friendliness. And before the meal was over we
+      discovered that one other person at the table admired him, probably for
+      the same and many other qualities. It seemed to us accidental when Foedric
+      had dropped in upon us and chosen a seat next to Antonia, but it soon
+      became evident that we had not witnessed even that kind of an accident.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      What was exhibited to us there, among that highly developed people, was a
+      genuine, old-fashioned, new-fashioned love affair. We rejoiced in our
+      hearts to find that their advanced civilization left abundant room for the
+      development of the tender passion, and that it also seemed not to
+      discourage a plain and sensible exhibition of it. For these two young
+      people made no effort to conceal their happiness. Not the company of their
+      chosen friends nor the presence of strangers from a distant world caused
+      them the slightest embarrassment, as they spoke from time to time their
+      words of love, simple words to other listeners, but full of meaning to
+      themselves.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Say that again, Antonia,&rdquo; spoke Foedric.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Why do you ask me to repeat it so often? I have said it so many times and
+      with so little variety of expression that I fear the monotony will tire
+      you. You can tell how strong my devotion is by my every look and action.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Very well,&rdquo; Foedric responded, &ldquo;then I, too, will be silent.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Oh, no; I retract what I have said if it is to have that effect. It is
+      only my own expressions that seem tiresome. I could not be happy without
+      your voice in my ears, though you repeat from morn till eve the old,
+      familiar words.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Then you must believe the same of me,&rdquo; said Foedric.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      As we all happened to be listening to these two at that moment, Foedric
+      looked up to our host and said:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Thorwald, do you think Antonia and I had better try to reform the customs
+      of the world, and do away with all verbal expression of our attachment, on
+      the ground that it is unnecessary and only a waste of breath?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;If some cruel master should force such a prohibition upon you, Foedric,
+      what would be your feeling? The heart craves such expression as naturally
+      as the body craves food. Suppose a couple were to start off by saying once
+      for all that they loved each other, and then agree to live the rest of
+      their lives on that one expression. They would argue that all such
+      sentiment was folly, and interfered with the serious business of life, and
+      so, denying a healthy appetite, their hearts would shrivel up and the fair
+      blossom of their love would soon wither and die.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      As we smiled at Thorwald&rsquo;s words, Zenith showed her interest by saying:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;The subject reminds me of that epoch in our history of which we read,
+      when all the world went without eating for a time.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Without eating?&rdquo; asked the doctor.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Yes, I will tell you about it. Once science reached that condition where
+      it thought it could make the world over and improve on the first creation
+      in a great many ways. Men began to say that the time spent in cooking and
+      eating was all wasted, that time, being the most valuable thing they had,
+      should be employed in some more useful way than in indulging a mere
+      sensual passion. The appetite came to be looked upon as something too
+      gross for intelligent beings and suited only to the natures of the lower
+      animals. Under the influence of this growing sentiment, science soon
+      discovered a process for condensing our food to wonderfully small
+      proportions. All extraneous matter was rejected, and only those particles
+      retained which were absolutely essential to our nourishment, chemical
+      knowledge having reached a high state. The result was that it finally
+      became possible to subsist a whole day on a single swallow. One pill,
+      taken every morning, contained all the food required, both for the growth
+      and maintenance of the body Science prided itself on such an advanced
+      step, and men looked forward and wondered what further marvels the future
+      would bring forth.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      The doctor did not try to hide his interest in this recital, and as soon
+      as Zenith paused he said:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;My friend and myself are most truly thankful that that custom did not
+      continue to the present day. But did it remain long?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;No,&rdquo; replied Zenith, &ldquo;of course it could not. At first people thought it
+      an immense gain. Just think of the time and expense it saved in every
+      household, doing away with dining-room and kitchen, with all their
+      furniture and utensils, and reducing the cares of housekeeping much more
+      than half. But it proved to be a costly experiment, and nature soon
+      exerted itself, as it always will in time. Science, not satisfied with
+      what had been accomplished, kept striving after what it called more
+      perfect results, and just as it had made a pellet of such powerful
+      ingredients that it would sustain life for a week, men began to die
+      rapidly of the treatment. This called a halt, but the damage done was
+      serious enough to give the world a good fright, turn it back to the old
+      fashioned habit of eating, and confirm us forever in that indulgence.
+      Since then we have believed that such appetites are given us for a wise
+      purpose and that, rightly enjoyed, they are a means of growth toward a
+      more and more perfect state.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;This lesson from our experience then,&rdquo; said Foedric to Antonia, &ldquo;is to
+      teach us the plain duty of lavishing upon each other, without measure, our
+      affectionate words, because it is a legitimate, healthy longing of our
+      nature, and I sincerely hope you will take it to heart. Do not undertake
+      to make me exist a week or a day on a single morsel.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      As for myself, I was not so much engrossed in this talk as to forget my
+      own condition, which seemed all the more forlorn by contrast with the
+      unalloyed happiness of these joyous beings. I wondered if such affairs
+      always went smoothly in Mars. Was early love always mutual, or did one
+      sometimes refuse to be wooed and prefer another? And did it ever happen
+      that the loved one was lost, as Mona was lost to me, perhaps never to be
+      found?
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      But in the company of such happy people I felt that my anxious spirit was
+      out of place, and I tried to cast off my forebodings and to seize from the
+      image of Mona present in my memory a portion of her own cheer and hope.
+      That I was not entirely successful my looks must have shown, for as we
+      rose from the table Zenith said to me, with a look of sympathy:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;You are sad&mdash;I think I will send for Avis to come over and cheer you
+      up.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      This was spoken as if Avis were just across the street and could run over
+      in a minute. But as I did not discourage the idea the invitation was sent,
+      and before night Avis was with us, filling the house with melody. She
+      delighted in her song and was as youthful in spirit as a girl, and this
+      was a quality always noticeable in the Martians. And, moreover, under the
+      influence of Avis the members of our own household found their voices, so
+      that the doctor and I learned that they need not send to the antipodes for
+      singers. Zenith and Foedric were exceptionally good, but no one except
+      Avis possessed the peculiar charm of Mona.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <hr />
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2HCH0020" id="link2HCH0020"> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      CHAPTER XX. A WONDERFUL REVELATION.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      There was no way by which we could learn so much and so rapidly about that
+      wonderful world as by conversation, so at every opportunity we tried to
+      get Thorwald and the others to give us portions of their history. From
+      time to time my companion and myself compared our impressions, and
+      expressed to each other the pleasure we anticipated in relating all the
+      amazing things we had seen and heard to our friends on the earth. The
+      exceedingly doubtful problem of our ever getting back to our home again
+      did not trouble us then.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      We said to each other that the most startling things had probably all been
+      told us, and that we could not be much surprised by anything that they
+      could tell us further. And yet there was that to follow which, if we could
+      fully enter into its significance, would make us forget much of what we
+      had already heard, or at least care but little to recall it. In truth, the
+      new revelation which we were about to receive from the lips of our friend
+      was of so much value, and so different in character from the other
+      subjects Thorwald had spoken of, that we afterward came to look upon all
+      that had gone before as an introduction, perhaps intended to prepare our
+      minds for a much grander truth. Yet it was brought out by a question from
+      me, a question of whose importance I had little conception.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      When Thorwald was ready to talk one day I said to him:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;We have heard you several times speak reverently of a God. Will you tell
+      us definitely what your religion is?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;With pleasure,&rdquo; he replied. &ldquo;We worship one God, the maker of all things,
+      and his Son, Jesus Christ, who gave his life for us.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Why, how did you hear of his death, Thorwald?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I might better ask how you heard of it. Many centuries ago God saw fit to
+      reveal himself more fully to us by sending his only Son, who came in the
+      likeness of our flesh, dwelt among us, and by cruel hands was slain. He
+      gave himself a sacrifice for our sins, but rose again from the dead, as
+      we, too, shall rise. He ascended into heaven and through him we now have
+      access unto the Father.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But Jesus died on the earth too, and you but describe his relations to
+      us.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I rejoice greatly to hear it,&rdquo; answered Thorwald, &ldquo;and I know now why you
+      were sent to us. This information is of inestimable value to us, for we
+      have spent much thought on the question of the moral government of other
+      worlds that we knew were inhabited. In God&rsquo;s dealings with Mars, lifting
+      up our souls and preparing us for his service and glory, we believed he
+      was working in the very best way. There can be but one best way; and so,
+      considering that there might be many other races of sinful beings needing
+      a saviour, we wondered how God&rsquo;s mercy was revealed to them. This bright
+      news which you bring is worth more to us at the present time than all
+      other possible information about the earth or its people. The fact that
+      the earth is inhabited was no great surprise to us after what we had
+      learned of our larger neighbors, but this&mdash;this is news indeed.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;As an example of what our interest in this subject has prompted us to do,
+      let me tell you that in our extremely laborious and limited intercourse
+      with Saturn and Uranus we made the form of the cross. We all feared our
+      work might be in vain and many doubted seriously the wisdom of proceeding
+      with the undertaking, which occupied many years, when it was so probable
+      that those distant people would not know what the sign meant. But we
+      labored on, and before the form was fairly finished it was with the
+      keenest pleasure that we saw the answer growing on the rounded surface of
+      each planet. They worked, they stopped, and then we realized that both had
+      replied to our question with the short straight line which, in our
+      communications, has come to be the affirmative sign, or the &lsquo;yes&rsquo; in the
+      new universal language.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;We interpreted this answer to mean that the great redemption signified by
+      the cross was known to the highly intelligent races that peopled these
+      rolling worlds. But how did that knowledge reach them? To that question we
+      never hoped to get an answer. Did a troop of bright angels issue forth
+      from the gates of heaven and wing their way from one planet to another, as
+      each race was ready for the joyful tidings, and make this glad
+      announcement?&mdash;&lsquo;Peace from heaven to this world! On Mars, your sister
+      planet, a child was born, the Son of God, the Saviour of the universe. He
+      lived a perfect life for your example, he died on the cross for your
+      salvation. Believe in him, love him, follow him!&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;We thought much on this point, wondering reverently how God had wrought.
+      And now you have come to explain all the mystery, to answer all questions.
+      One simple sentence tells it all: &lsquo;Jesus died on the earth too.&rsquo; 
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I see it perfectly now. Christ, the Lord of heaven, came to us in the
+      fullness of time, took upon him the likeness of our flesh, lived nobly,
+      was slain, rose again from the dead, and ascended into heaven to prepare
+      blessed mansions for all his followers. So, too, in the fullness of your
+      time, when the earth was ready for the great sacrifice, Christ offered
+      himself again. He appeared in human form and lived among men as he had
+      lived with us, pointing your race, also, to a home of peace and joy above.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Better than any announcement of angels of what had taken place in some
+      other world was his actual life among you, going about doing good,
+      shedding around him the spirit of love and self-denial, showing you the
+      way to live, the way to die.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Among the vast multitude of peopled worlds which God has made, there is
+      doubtless great variety in nature and condition. But if there are any
+      others whose inhabitants were ever in our lost condition, let us hope and
+      believe that the same great act of mercy has been shown to them which has
+      so greatly blessed the planets of our own system.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      Here, at Thorwald&rsquo;s request, I told him briefly of the Saviour&rsquo;s advent on
+      the earth in the fulfillment of prophecy, of his beautiful life, and then
+      of the marvelous improvement his religion had brought about as it spread
+      in the world.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Thorwald appeared intensely interested, and exclaimed: &ldquo;Oh! how this truth
+      you have told us does make brothers of us all, and how it will enhance the
+      pleasure of our intercourse. Now in our future conversation we shall be in
+      full sympathy, knowing that, though born so far apart, we are all
+      followers of the same dear Master.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Zenith,&rdquo; said Thorwald to his wife, who was sitting with us, &ldquo;this is a
+      happy day for us all. These earth-dwellers, these men who have come to
+      visit our world, are not strangers; they are Christians. Think of it.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      At this juncture I could not help studying the doctor&rsquo;s face, for I knew
+      this was the first time he had ever been called a Christian. In spite of
+      the seriousness of the situation, I was obliged to indulge in a quiet
+      smile to think he had to go all the way to Mars to be recognized in his
+      true character. For although he would not acknowledge the divine source of
+      it, he had imbibed a great deal of the real Christian spirit. But he had
+      spent his life in seeking for scientific knowledge in various directions
+      and was content, as he often said, to leave the unknowable without
+      investigation. I wondered whether, in these novel circumstances, he would
+      care to give voice to his agnosticism. But the doctor was honest or he was
+      nothing, and he could not endure that Thorwald should rest under the false
+      impression implied by his closing words. So with some effort, as I could
+      see, he said:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I dislike exceedingly, Thorwald, to destroy the least particle of the
+      effect of your eloquence, but I feel compelled to say that, as for me, I
+      have never called myself a Christian.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Not a Christian!&rdquo; said Thorwald. &ldquo;I do not understand you. But perhaps
+      you use some other name. You surely do not mean that you turn aside from
+      that divine being who came to the earth to save you.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I do not know that such a being did come to the earth.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;What!&rdquo; exclaimed Thorwald, &ldquo;is there any doubt of it? Has your companion
+      here been deceived? Must we give up our new-found joy?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Oh, no, no,&rdquo; answered the doctor hurriedly. &ldquo;I suppose it is true that a
+      good man named Jesus once lived on the earth and taught, and died a
+      shameful death.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;A good man! Nothing more?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I don&rsquo;t know,&rdquo; answered the doctor.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;What do you believe?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I do not allow myself to have any belief.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Well, now, Doctor, you are a thinking being. Considering all you know
+      about Jesus&mdash;his noble life, his character and the character of his
+      teachings, and then the claims he made for himself&mdash;what do you think
+      of him?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Before such mysteries, and in answer to all questions relating to what is
+      called the supernatural, I always say, &lsquo;I do not know.&rsquo;&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Well,&rdquo; continued Thorwald, &ldquo;do you think the life and death of a good man
+      could set in motion forces that would so transform the world and give it
+      such a start toward a higher and more perfect state?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      To this the doctor replied:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;In the early part of this conversation my companion told you he thought
+      the condition of man on the earth was improving, or, in other words, that
+      the earth was growing better. In that opinion he has many supporters, but
+      it is only fair that you should know that some of us hold just the
+      opposite view. We see so much evil in the world, evil that is unrebuked
+      and growing stronger from year to year, so many forces at work dragging
+      men downward and such fearful clouds ahead, that it seems to us that the
+      good is overmatched, and that there is but little hope of a happy future
+      for our race. I will also say, in order to be perfectly frank, that even
+      if we should admit that our civilization was advancing, we should not
+      attribute it to the influence of the Jewish reformer.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Then,&rdquo; said Thorwald, &ldquo;if I understand your feeling, you have no love, no
+      thanks even, for him who gave his life for you, and no sense of gratitude
+      for the loving Father who sent his Son to die for your sins.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I think you are hardly just,&rdquo; replied the doctor, &ldquo;for I am not conscious
+      of living a life of ingratitude. Your words imply a great deal that I know
+      nothing about. I am not aware that anyone was ever sent from heaven to die
+      for me, and I do not even know there is a heaven and a God.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Did it ever occur to you, Doctor, that your attitude does not alter the
+      facts? In spite of your unbelief, or indifference if you will, there is a
+      God whose steps are heard throughout the universe, whose hand upholds all
+      worlds, and who looks with loving eyes upon all created beings, even upon
+      those who have the intelligence but not the heart to acknowledge him. Oh!
+      it is amazing to me that there can be one such being in all God&rsquo;s
+      dominions.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Why, are there not any in Mars?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;In Mars? Not one. Let me tell you, Doctor, that here you will be unique,
+      if that is any consolation to you. When this talk is made public and the
+      facts in your case are spread abroad everybody will want a share in
+      bringing you to your right mind, and we shall see what the result will be
+      with a world full of missionaries to one heathen.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Please do not use that word, Thorwald. I was born in Boston&mdash;you
+      must know where Boston is&mdash;of good old Puritan stock, and I am not a
+      heathen because I don&rsquo;t know about some matters that I cannot, in the
+      nature of things, know anything about. You found a while ago that I wanted
+      imagination, and you now see that I am deficient also in faith, which it
+      seems to me is a product of the imagination.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;No,&rdquo; broke in Thorwald, &ldquo;faith might rather be called the product of
+      reason and of the conscience, enlightened by every revelation which God
+      has made. But with us faith is an instinct. We believe in God as naturally
+      as we trust our parents. Our souls reach after divine things to satisfy
+      their longings, just as our bodies seek the food that shall nourish them.
+      In all this world there is not a heart devoid of love to God, not one that
+      does not own a personal and joyful allegiance to the divine Saviour.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But I forget that the earth is still young, and that, very long ago, when
+      Mars was in your condition, representatives of our race actually walked
+      the surface of this planet with no more thought of its Maker than you
+      exhibit. Forgive me if, in this talk, I have seemed too positive of things
+      which you claim cannot be known. But here there is no uncertainty in these
+      matters. There is now no open question in regard to the existence of God
+      and his loving care of us.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But, Thorwald,&rdquo; asked the doctor, &ldquo;how can you be sure? Help me to see
+      these things as you do. In the matter of the habitability of other worlds
+      you brought me over to your opinion by producing evidence which took away
+      all uncertainty and left me no room to doubt. Is it so in this case?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;No, my friend,&rdquo; answered Thorwald, &ldquo;it is not so. The evidence in this
+      case is of an entirely different character. Your companion has told me how
+      God has dealt with men, by what means he has made known his will, and how
+      he has revealed his love and mercy to your race. So has it been with us,
+      only here we have had more time to acquaint ourselves with these blessed
+      truths. If you ask for proofs, I can only say they are the same which have
+      no doubt been reiterated many times in your ears. The voices that come to
+      us from the invisible world are not tuned to the coarse fiber of our
+      physical nature, but are addressed to our spirits, our very selves, and he
+      who does not heed those voices would not be persuaded even though one
+      should rise from the dead.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Let me induce you, Doctor, to cultivate the spiritual part of your being,
+      evidently undeveloped as yet, for only then will you begin to realize that
+      the evidence in support of these divine truths is more convincing than any
+      possible proofs that could be presented to our outward senses.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Under your instruction,&rdquo; said the doctor, &ldquo;and with the example of a
+      world full of spirits of your faith and practice, I will do my best to
+      follow your advice, and try to catch some faint strain from those heavenly
+      voices. If I cannot believe, it shall no longer be because I will not. But
+      now, Thorwald, you have given too much time to me and have been drawn away
+      from your purpose of enlightening us in regard to your wonderful planet.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Yes, Thorwald,&rdquo; said I, &ldquo;we must hear more of your interesting history,
+      and I think an account of what the religion of Jesus has done for Mars
+      will help to win the doctor to right views.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I shall take much pleasure in doing the best I can whenever you are good
+      enough to listen,&rdquo; Thorwald answered. &ldquo;But we shall now be still more
+      anxious to hear further about the earth.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <hr />
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2HCH0021" id="link2HCH0021"> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      CHAPTER XXI. A LITTLE ANCIENT HISTORY.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      In the foregoing personal conversation, Thorwald had been uncompromising
+      in look and tone, as well as in word, toward the errors of my friend, but
+      for the doctor himself I was sure he had the kindest feelings. The
+      discovery of the dearth of spiritual perception in the doctor was a
+      greater surprise to Thorwald, I really believe, than our first appearance
+      was. And it was a surprise well calculated to awaken in his finer nature a
+      feeling as near akin to indignation as the Martian mind of that era was
+      capable of experiencing. So we had here the opportunity of observing how a
+      member of this highly civilized race, one endowed with such lofty
+      attributes, would act under severe provocation. The exhibition was
+      instructive. Thorwald certainly resented with all the force of his pure
+      and upright nature all that was evil in the doctor&rsquo;s attitude. Such doubt
+      was entirely new to his experience. He had no place for it; and he could
+      do no less than cry out against it as he had done. But his manner softened
+      as soon as the doctor&rsquo;s mood changed, and it was apparent that he was
+      ready to encourage in every possible way the slightest indication of a
+      change. And from this time Thorwald was particularly tender toward the
+      doctor, evidently desiring to show him that, unbending to everything like
+      disloyalty to God, he recognized his sincerity when he declared that he
+      would no longer set his will against the reception of the truth.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      In this mind Thorwald said:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I perceive, Doctor, that your sturdy self-respect and the fear that you
+      might appear in a false position have compelled you to be unfair to
+      yourself. You believe more than you confess, else why did you repel with
+      such feeling my insinuation that you were a heathen? But if you have ever
+      determined to go through life believing in only what your hand can touch
+      and your eye can see, let me induce you to close your eyes and fold your
+      hands for a while, and with expectancy wait for the coming into your heart
+      of that divine influence which, encouraged however feebly, shall presently
+      show to your inner and better vision, in all his beauty, him whom no eye
+      hath seen nor can see.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I do not exclude you therefore, Doctor, when I say again that we have all
+      been drawn into close sympathy by the knowledge your companion has
+      imparted, and in what I have to say further I am sure you will both see a
+      great deal to cause you to realize that your race and ours have the same
+      dear Father, who is guiding us to a common destiny.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;At your request I am to give you from time to time, as we have
+      opportunity, an account of the successive steps of our development, and I
+      would like to say at the start that there will be one great difference
+      between what I am to tell you and the rambling talk with which we began
+      our happy acquaintance. Then I gave you a few facts to show our present
+      condition, without intimating that there was any higher force at work than
+      a natural desire in us to make the most of ourselves, and treat our
+      neighbors well. Now, since I have discovered that you can enter into my
+      feelings to a greater or less extent, I shall not hesitate to refer to its
+      true source all that has helped us attain to our present condition, and
+      all that is urging us on to a still higher state.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;We shall he very glad to know what you consider the spring of all the
+      vast improvement in your race,&rdquo; I remarked.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I did not use the word &lsquo;consider,&rsquo;&rdquo; replied Thorwald. &ldquo;That would imply
+      doubt where there is none. It is established beyond controversy that both
+      our material and spiritual development have come only through the personal
+      love and care of God for the creatures whom he has made, exhibited through
+      all our history, but especially through the sending of his Son.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Some on the earth recognize the same truth in reference to our race,&rdquo; I
+      said. &ldquo;But, in general, people do not think much of such things, or if
+      they think they do not say much. In fact, religious subjects are not as a
+      rule popular in conversation.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Why, what reason can there be for that?&rdquo; Thorwald inquired with eager
+      interest.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Oh, there is too much indifference in the matter,&rdquo; I replied. &ldquo;I suppose
+      most men do not think their relations to their Maker important enough to
+      give them any concern. And even the best among us shrink from urging their
+      opinions on others, partly because they know they are not perfect examples
+      themselves, and also from the feeling that their friends are intelligent
+      beings and ought to know, as well as they do, what is best for them.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Oh, then, my dear Doctor,&rdquo; said Thorwald, &ldquo;I perceive that I have
+      committed a breach of etiquette in forcing this subject upon you, and in
+      asking you to put yourself in the way of receiving spiritual impressions.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;In the circumstances, I think you are excusable,&rdquo; replied the doctor;
+      &ldquo;and, besides, I believe I introduced the topic.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;If you stay long with us,&rdquo; resumed Thorwald, &ldquo;you will become accustomed
+      to religious conversation, for here there is entire freedom in such
+      matters. Our spiritual experiences and the great possibilities of the
+      future state are exceedingly pleasant things to talk about, we think, and
+      we feel no more sensitiveness in doing it than in conversing on the
+      ordinary affairs of life. Being relieved of so many of the cares
+      pertaining to your existence, our minds are the more prepared to occupy
+      themselves with these high themes, and what is more natural than that we
+      should often like to speak to each other about them? As these things
+      become more real to you and the necessity of spending so much time in
+      caring for the body diminishes, you will gradually lose your present
+      feeling. You will also find that, in making these subjects familiar, they
+      need not lose dignity and you need not lose reverence.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Thorwald,&rdquo; asked the doctor, &ldquo;could you not give us a brief sketch of
+      your career, so that we may compare it with that of our race?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I will do the best I can,&rdquo; answered Thorwald. &ldquo;I think that is a good
+      suggestion, and after that is done any of us can tell you the history of
+      different epochs as opportunity offers. You are both such good listeners
+      that it is a pleasure to talk to you, but I want you to promise to
+      interrupt me with questions whenever you wish anything more fully
+      explained.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      We promised to do so, and Thorwald began:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Our world is very old. The geologic formations tell us of a time when no
+      life could exist&mdash;long ages of convulsion and change in the crust of
+      the globe. In time the conflict of the elements subsided and the
+      boundaries between land and water were established. Then came vegetable
+      life, rank and abundant, preparing stores of coal and oil for use in the
+      far future. Animals followed, the first forms crude and monstrous, but
+      succeeded by others better adapted to be the contemporaries and companions
+      of our race.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;The planet was now ready for its destiny, and it was put into the hands
+      of intelligent beings, made in the image of their Creator. This race
+      started in the highest conceivable state, perfect in body, mind, and
+      spirit. The material world was soon subdued to their use, and paradise
+      reigned below. We do not know how long this condition lasted, but in some
+      way sin entered and all was changed. Sorrow and death came, and a thousand
+      ills to vex us. Another period passed, and the race had become so wicked
+      that it could not be allowed to exist. A pestilence swept over the world,
+      and all but one tribe perished. Through this remnant the world was
+      repeopled, but sin and woe remained, to be driven out at last only by a
+      struggle too great for the arm of flesh alone.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But the conflict began in hope, a hope inspired by the voice of God. From
+      the very entrance of sin help from above had been promised in the person
+      of one who should conquer evil, and through whom the race might be
+      restored to a much higher position even than that from which it had
+      fallen. Slowly the spirit of good, which is the spirit of God, worked upon
+      the heart, and in all ages there were some who walked in that spirit. By
+      one such soul God raised up a people to whom he committed his message to
+      the race, and through whom, at a later day, he fulfilled the promise.
+      Among this people there arose many faithful ones, and by them, from time
+      to time, God added to his message, acting as the personal guide and
+      defender of his people, and leading them by every path until they finally
+      knew him, in every fiber of their being, to be the only God.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Prophets, too, there were among them, who, under divine guidance,
+      foretold a time of universal peace, when the kingdom of Christ should come
+      in all hearts and when even the beasts of the field should dwell together
+      in unity.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Why, we have just such prophecies,&rdquo; said I, &ldquo;but they are generally
+      interpreted figuratively. Do you really think they will be literally
+      fulfilled on the earth?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Well,&rdquo; answered Thorwald, &ldquo;I have already told you what has come to pass
+      here, and I will leave you to judge from our experience as to what will
+      come of the prophecies that have been made to you. From all you have said
+      at one time and another, I can see plenty of evidence that the earth is
+      traveling the same road with us, and I have no doubt it will one day reach
+      even a higher condition than the one we now enjoy.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;At length, when the time was ripe, God sent the promised Saviour. He, the
+      Lord of heaven, came and lived as one of us. He gathered around him a few
+      faithful souls, he preached his gospel of light and comfort to the poor,
+      and wept over the very woes he had come down to remove. His humility
+      proved a stumbling-block to the selfishness of the world, and his own
+      nation rejected him. He conquered death and returned to his Father&rsquo;s home,
+      but his spirit, which had always been present in some measure, now came
+      with force, and began, through his followers, the task of regenerating the
+      race.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;A feeble church, planted thus amid sin and darkness, took deep root in
+      loyal hearts, grew strong with persecution, and soon kindled a light which
+      pierced the darkness and gradually spread its illumination over all our
+      planet. The history of that church is the history of our development. The
+      race has not come so far toward its maturity without a mighty struggle.
+      The long course of preparation for the present higher condition has had
+      many interruptions and obstructions. There have been dark ages of
+      stagnation and threatened defeat, and there have been ages of hope and
+      advancement. Through all this history the light of the gospel, though
+      often obscured, has never been extinguished, and every step of progress
+      that has been made in our condition is to be traced directly to that
+      light. We have not always been able to realize that; but, now that we
+      understand more fully our wonderful career, we see how true it is that we
+      have been led by a divine hand.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Do you mean,&rdquo; I asked, &ldquo;that your vast improvement in material affairs
+      has come through Christianity?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Certainly,&rdquo; answered Thorwald. &ldquo;Our civilization has walked hand in hand
+      with true religion, and in all ages every permanent advance in our
+      condition has come through the influence of the spirit of good, which is
+      always urging us to a higher and better state. In our progress many
+      mistakes have been made, with consequences so serious as to threaten at
+      the time our final defeat; but a higher power has led us through all our
+      troubles to a place of safety, where we can survey with gratitude the
+      field of conflict. If you so desire, I can relate to you at another time
+      some of the mistakes which have at times set us back in our march toward a
+      physical and spiritual superiority.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      We were pleased to notice by this last remark of Thorwald&rsquo;s that he had
+      still in reserve many things to tell us, and we so expressed ourselves to
+      him.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <hr />
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2HCH0022" id="link2HCH0022"> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      CHAPTER XXII. AGAIN THE MOON.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      Days passed and brought no news of Mona. I did all in my power to appear
+      cheerful, but often made a dismal failure of it. No one could help me, and
+      Thorwald, though sympathetic like all the rest, would allow me no false
+      hopes. He said a systematic and thorough search had been made, both on
+      land and water, without result, and he could see no prospect of any
+      success in the future. But, while I could see that Thorwald was about
+      ready to abandon in despair the attempt to find Mona, I would not give up
+      hope. I did not know at the time what excellent reasons Thorwald had for
+      his feeling, for I did not realize how very complete the search had been,
+      but my own faith was not founded on reason. I simply refused to believe
+      that I should never see again the object of such deep love.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      While affairs were in this condition, Thorwald said to us one morning:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I wonder you have not been more anxious to see one of our flying
+      machines. Our system of aerial navigation is one of the most enjoyable of
+      our material blessings, and I shall take great pleasure in giving you a
+      taste of it.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I think one reason,&rdquo; I answered, &ldquo;why we have not asked about it is
+      because we have had so many other interesting things to see, and then you
+      know we had our share of traveling in the air in coming to you. However,
+      we shall be delighted to see your method at any time when you are pleased
+      to exhibit it.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Very well,&rdquo; said Thorwald; &ldquo;then we will get up an expedition at once.
+      Zenith and Avis will accompany us, I think; and as we shall probably fall
+      in with Foedric, we will send for Antonia to go also.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;That will make a pleasant party,&rdquo; I said.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      We found all were glad to go and witness our introduction to a modern air
+      ship, and we were soon off.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Not far from the house we found a luxurious carriage of just the right
+      size for us all. We did not see another like it anywhere about, and I was
+      moved to ask:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;How does it happen, Thorwald, that exactly the kind of conveyance you
+      want is ready without any prearrangement? This sort of carriage does not
+      appear to be very plentiful.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Things generally &lsquo;happen,&rsquo; as you call it, for our convenience,&rdquo; he said.
+      &ldquo;Is it not so with you to some extent? If all the people wanted to travel
+      in your cars on the same day and at the same hour, they could not easily
+      be accommodated, but some dispensation divides them up so that there are,
+      I presume, about the same number who find it necessary or convenient to
+      travel each day. This subject has been studied by us, and we believe that
+      even these details of our lives are all arranged by him to whom nothing is
+      small, nothing great.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      A pleasant ride of a few miles brought us to a seaport, and to a scene of
+      much activity. It seemed to be a great distributing point, as numerous
+      loads of many kinds of goods were moving about, and immense stores of
+      fruit and vegetables were to be seen. These products of the soil were of
+      bewildering variety and surpassing richness, showing us that agriculture,
+      providing most of the food of the people, must be a favorite science with
+      many, and one that brought rich rewards. It was pleasing to see everything
+      going on in such a quiet, orderly manner, and so many people at work
+      without friction and with no look of fret, hurry, or fatigue. Everyone
+      seemed to be enjoying his work, if that could be called work which looked
+      so much like pleasure.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      After riding through several busy streets we drew near an imposing
+      structure, which Thorwald told us was the front of the aerial station. At
+      the same time he directed our attention to the sky, and we saw a number of
+      air ships sailing leisurely along, some just starting out and others
+      apparently returning home. The doctor and I had our interest quickened by
+      this sight and were anxious for a closer view. As the fact of riding in
+      the air was not new to us, we had not been much excited by the prospect of
+      seeing how the Martians did it. But these ships were so different from
+      anything we had ever seen before that we began to anticipate a great deal
+      from our excursion after all.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Going through the building, we came into an immense court or open space,
+      large enough, one would suppose, for the fleets of a nation. Here were a
+      great number of flying machines of various sizes, all gayly decorated with
+      pleasing colors, and many of them, apparently, waiting for passengers.
+      Thorwald selected one of medium size, and as we approached, whom should we
+      find in charge but our young friend Foedric? In answer to Thorwald&rsquo;s
+      question, he told us that both he and his vessel were at our service, and
+      we proceeded to mount to our seats in the car.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Foedric pulled a small lever, and we began to rise. He then expressed his
+      pleasure to the doctor and me that he had the opportunity of making our
+      further acquaintance.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;We are taking them for the ride,&rdquo; said Thorwald, &ldquo;and you may choose any
+      course and go to any height you please.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      We thanked Foedric for his pleasant words, and then he showed us about the
+      car and explained its conveniences. It was quite large, with a number of
+      apartments and accommodations sufficient for a dozen people both day and
+      night. Besides the ordinary furnishings for comfortable living, we saw
+      air-condensing machines for use in lofty flights, a good-sized telescope,
+      instruments for measuring speed and height, and other scientific apparatus
+      of much of which we were obliged to ask the use.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Although Foedric was so much younger than Thorwald, he was taller and
+      larger every way&mdash;a magnificent specimen of a magnificent race. In
+      speaking to Thorwald he showed a proper respect for his greater age, and
+      he bore himself becomingly in the presence of Zenith; but there was not
+      the slightest sign of subserviency, nor anything to show that, though
+      engaged in what might be called a lowly occupation, he was not on terms of
+      perfect equality and even friendship with them. This easy poise of manner
+      would not have surprised us had we known what Thorwald soon told us, and
+      from this experience we learned never to judge a Martian by the work he
+      happened to be doing.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Foedric is a scholar,&rdquo; said Thorwald, &ldquo;and is engaged just now in writing
+      a treatise on the color of sounds.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      This announcement was a double surprise, for we would have said, if he was
+      writing anything, that it must be something about ballooning&mdash;the
+      application of electricity to flying machinery, perhaps. But Thorwald
+      further enlightened us, the talk going on in Foedric&rsquo;s presence:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;He was attracted to that subject by the fact that he possesses in a
+      striking degree the faculty of hearing color, which belongs only to
+      refined minds. We all have this power to some extent, but in this, as in
+      so many other things, there are great differences among us. As an example
+      of this power, if you will excuse me, Doctor, I will tell you that your
+      voice is dark blue, while yours,&rdquo; he continued, turning to me, &ldquo;is yellow.
+      Foedric, a true son of Mars, speaks red, and as for Zenith, her soft, pink
+      voice has always been to me one of her principal charms, and though it
+      would be folly to deny that she has changed some in appearance (not for
+      the worse, however) since I first knew her, her voice has retained the
+      same tone or color. I will ask Foedric if I am correct in my impressions.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Quite correct,&rdquo; answered Foedric. &ldquo;When I first heard your friend, the
+      doctor, speak I thought his voice was brown, but it has changed since to
+      such an extent that I think as you do&mdash;that the prevailing tinge is a
+      deep blue. Such cases are not unknown among us, but they are not
+      frequent.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;If the color of my voice sympathizes with my thoughts,&rdquo; said the doctor,
+      &ldquo;I do not wonder that your quick ears have noticed a change.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I ought to say,&rdquo; resumed Foedric, &ldquo;that I have to rely on my friends to
+      tell me the shade of my own voice, for to my ears it is as colorless as a
+      piece of the clearest glass, and this is the common experience.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I would like to ask about the color of Antonia&rsquo;s voice,&rdquo; I said, &ldquo;and
+      Avis&rsquo;s, too.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Antonia&rsquo;s is a beautiful green,&rdquo; answered Foedric, looking with a smile
+      at the fair one, &ldquo;and Avis, both in song and speech, has your color&mdash;yellow.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Foedric,&rdquo; said Thorwald, &ldquo;tell our friends what you and others are trying
+      to discover in connection with the air vibrations. It may be suggestive to
+      them.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I can claim but little part in the work,&rdquo; Foedric responded, &ldquo;but it is
+      this. Our ears report to our brain the air waves until they reach a
+      frequency of forty thousand in a second, and we call the sensation sound.
+      When the vibrations of the ether are more rapid than that, we have no
+      sense with which to receive the impression until they reach the great
+      number of four hundred million millions in a second. Then they affect the
+      eye and produce red light, and as they increase still more the color
+      becomes orange, then yellow, green, blue, and violet. Perhaps your
+      limitations are not the same as ours, but our scientists are trying to
+      discover some means by which we can arrest and make use of a small part at
+      least of those waves which strike our bodies at a frequency between forty
+      thousand and four hundred million millions. It is still an unsolved
+      problem, this search for another sense, and we are now looking forward for
+      help in the task to the studies of the civilization represented in our
+      comet.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      All this time we were rising slowly but hardly realizing it, being filled
+      with that peculiar sensation, incident to balloon journeys, by which we
+      could almost believe we were remaining about in the same place and the
+      solid ground was falling away from us.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Now Foedric increased our speed and showed us how easily he could sail in
+      any direction and at any rate he pleased, explaining to us the mechanism
+      by which we were upheld and propelled, and also the way in which the
+      current of electricity was generated and applied. They certainly had a
+      wonderful method of producing great power with little weight, and the
+      doctor eagerly drank in the information in regard to it, as if for future
+      use.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      It was charming. The atmosphere was as clear as crystal, the air balmy and
+      the motion delightful, and if the Martians, with their purer nature and
+      keener senses, enjoyed the trip that morning more than we earth-dwellers
+      did, then their capacity for enjoyment must have been beyond ours. The
+      ship seemed to be under perfect control; there was nothing uncertain in
+      her movements, and as we went sailing along without fear of harm, in the
+      very poetry of motion, the doctor and I realized over and over again that
+      we had much to learn in this method of navigation.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Now we were riding at a good height, and our vision could take in a wide
+      expanse of land and water. The peculiarity of the surface of Mars was
+      noticeable, the seas being long, narrow inlets, as it were, running
+      through or between winding strings of land, a decided contrast to the
+      great oceans and noble continents of our mother earth. It seemed to me
+      that this was much to the advantage of the earth, and so I was bold enough
+      to say:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;When I used to look at a map of Mars, Thorwald, I remember thinking that
+      the planet was not a handsome one, whatever might be the character of its
+      inhabitants. But I have no doubt you have an answer for me which will give
+      some good reason for the peculiar structure of the surface of Mars and
+      make me ashamed of my sentimental preference for the earth.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I certainly hope you will hear nothing while you are with us to make you
+      ashamed of your own planet,&rdquo; said Thorwald; &ldquo;but I must tell you the truth
+      in regard to Mars. How do you like our climate, as far as you have
+      experienced it?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;We have enjoyed it exceedingly,&rdquo; I answered, &ldquo;and I have been on the
+      point of remarking several times that we were fortunate in making our
+      visit here at so pleasant a season of the year.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But,&rdquo; said Thorwald, &ldquo;you could not have come in a worse season, for we
+      have none worse than this. The temperature varies enough to give variety,
+      but not enough in either direction to cause discomfort. Each season is
+      quite distinctive from the others, but each has its peculiar charm and all
+      are equally enjoyable. Our telescopes tell us it is not so on the earth,
+      for we can see the winter snow creep well down on its surface and remain
+      there several months, then go away and come on the other hemisphere. We
+      know this means great changes of climate, and as the inclination of the
+      axis of the earth to the plane of its orbit is about the same as that of
+      the axis of Mars, we believe we would have equally violent changes were it
+      not for the fortunate distribution of land and water on our planet. All
+      those narrow seas which disfigure our surface in your eyes, are in reality
+      vast rivers, which are constantly bearing the water from one part of the
+      globe to another. The warm water of the equatorial regions is carried to
+      the cold countries north and south, and the water thus displaced cools in
+      its turn the lands more directly under the sun. Thus the temperature of
+      all parts is nearly equalized. In the summer in this latitude the water
+      that washes our shores is cool and in the winter it is warm, and the
+      strips of land are so narrow that all places feel the influence, making
+      the climate delightful everywhere. At each pole there is a spot of
+      perpetual snow, but these are comparatively small, and the fields are
+      cultivated right up to the foot of the snow hills.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      This recital excited the doctor&rsquo;s interest amazingly, and as Thorwald
+      closed he said:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I rather think my companion did not expect so complete an answer, but I
+      am glad his words suggested to you this statement, Thorwald. It is of
+      great value to us in our study of your remarkable planet. How wonderfully
+      God has adapted everything to your comfort and well-being!&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      Thorwald smiled in appreciation of the doctor&rsquo;s final words, but before he
+      had time to speak we were a little startled by the red voice of Foedric,
+      calling out:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;The moon! Look!&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      It was nothing new for any of us now to look at our old moon. We had seen
+      it almost every day, had talked much about it, and thought the novelty of
+      its companionship to Mars about worn off. But our present high position
+      and the clear, thin atmosphere gave it quite a changed appearance, as it
+      was slowly coming into view above the horizon. We watched it in silence
+      for a while and saw it mount the eastern sky, and I think all of us except
+      Foedric had the same thought, that it appeared to be much nearer than
+      usual. Foedric had seen it before from the same height, and knew when he
+      called our attention to it that we were going to be surprised.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      As the moon rose still higher it appeared to be coming toward us, instead
+      of aiming at a point far over our heads, and our next sensation was caused
+      by Zenith, who mildly exclaimed:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;It cannot be more than a few miles away. Why not go and make it a visit?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      To her surprise, if people of such high endowments ever are surprised,
+      Thorwald asked quickly:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Are you willing to try it if the rest of us are?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Certainly,&rdquo; she replied.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Foedric,&rdquo; said Thorwald, &ldquo;what do you say to flying out to the moon and
+      attempting an invasion of it?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I say,&rdquo; answered Foedric, &ldquo;that I am ready. We have provisions enough for
+      several days, and I believe the capacity of our battery is sufficient for
+      the trip.&rdquo; Thorwald learned from Avis and Antonia that they would not
+      object to the trial, and then said:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Well, we have a good majority, but must not think of deciding on so
+      important a step unless the feeling is unanimous. Let us hear from our
+      friends here, who have had some experience with the moon.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      The doctor said pleasantly that he should like nothing better than the
+      proposed experiment, and, as I was the last, I remarked that I could not
+      spoil such an interesting project by withholding my consent. But it seemed
+      to me all the time that the whole thing was a joke and that it would end
+      at once in a laugh. I thought of the cold and cheerless surface of the
+      moon, comparing it in my mind with the delectable world we were leaving,
+      and had no relish for the proposed trip. Something of my feeling must have
+      been reflected in my countenance, for Zenith, who had been looking at me,
+      said in a sympathetic tone:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Although you gave your consent, you look as if you did not enjoy the
+      prospect of another visit to the moon.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      Thorwald heard this remark, and after a glance at me he said:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;You are right, Zenith, and I think we will abandon the idea at once. We
+      started out today for the purpose of entertaining the doctor and his
+      friend, and it would not become us to treat them to more of a ride than
+      they desire.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;You are both excellent mind readers,&rdquo; I responded. &ldquo;And if I were as
+      honest as you Martians are, I suppose I should have said in the first
+      place that I preferred not to make such an extended journey. I suspect the
+      doctor is willing to go ahead, as he is too sensible to be affected by
+      such a feeling as now moves me. My thoughts turn back to our departure
+      from the earth in a balloon, and I cannot rid my mind of the dreadful fear
+      that perhaps we are now unconsciously bidding a long farewell to Mars.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      Thorwald thanked me for my frankness and said they should certainly
+      respect my sentiment. He then stepped to Foedric&rsquo;s side to speak to him in
+      regard to a change of course. At that moment I looked at the moon, which
+      had been rapidly approaching us. What was it that suddenly gave it a
+      deeper interest to me? A flash of intelligence suffused my being like an
+      electric shock, frilling my imagination with the most beautiful vision and
+      making the moon appear to me now as the one desirable place in all the
+      universe.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Thorwald,&rdquo; I exclaimed, &ldquo;keep right on! I want to go now. I have changed
+      my mind.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Yes,&rdquo; he responded, looking at me with a pleased smile, &ldquo;and I see you
+      have changed your face, too. You look like quite another man. Why this
+      sudden transition?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Don&rsquo;t you know? Mona is there.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Where?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;In the moon, of course.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;How do you know that? You seem to be pretty confident.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Why, she must be there. You couldn&rsquo;t find her on land or water, and you
+      know you have no accidents in Mars, so she could not have come to any harm
+      there. I know we shall find her in the moon. She must have been left
+      behind in some way when the doctor and I were thrown off, and now she is
+      no doubt expecting us to come back to her. Oh, let us make haste.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Well,&rdquo; answered Thorwald, &ldquo;we were only waiting your consent, and we can
+      now keep on as we are going and try to reach the moon. But I must give you
+      a friendly warning not to let your hope get the better of your judgment in
+      regard to finding your friend.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      With this Thorwald and Foedric consulted a moment, and at once our speed
+      increased till we were flying at a fearful rate, but none too fast for me.
+      I knew now why I had been so reluctant to go so far away from Mars. It was
+      because I thought Mona was there; but now, with my present opinion, the
+      moon had suddenly changed its character and become to my imagination a
+      bright and beautiful world. To such a degree does love transform the most
+      unlovely objects.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      I was struck with the easy way in which Zenith had accepted the result of
+      what I thought her sportive suggestion, and, not being able to fathom her
+      thoughts, I said to her:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;When we left home, this morning, you did not expect to be gone over
+      night. Have you no anxiety about the house and the children?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Oh, no,&rdquo; she replied; &ldquo;the house will not run away, nor the children
+      either. We do not often stay away from them over night, but we do not
+      hesitate to do so when we have a good reason for it. Our children know us
+      well enough to be sure we have such a reason now, and this faith in us and
+      in our safe return will permit us to stay away as long as we please. As
+      for our feelings, we have no such thing as anxiety, for all our experience
+      teaches us that no harm of any kind can come to our loved ones. I suppose
+      in such circumstances on the earth both the mother and the children would
+      have a feeling of great fear, caused by the fact that there would be in
+      reality some danger of harm, but here we have never heard of such a thing,
+      and even the word &lsquo;danger&rsquo; has little meaning in it to us, because all we
+      know about it comes from our reading.&rdquo; The moon was now well above us, and
+      we were making for a point in the western sky where Foedric hoped to
+      intercept it. We were already so far from the planet that the air was
+      getting weak, so we all put on breathing machines. These were of such
+      perfect construction that our lungs had free play, nor were they
+      cumbersome enough to interfere much with our movements.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      By this time the moon had grown so vastly, owing to our swift traveling,
+      that our friends began to be amazed at its enormous proportions. The
+      jagged, mountainous surface was plainly visible, a most uninviting place
+      for people accustomed to the serene beauty and felicity of the planet
+      Mars.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Remember,&rdquo; said the doctor, &ldquo;that you are not to judge the earth by what
+      you see of her old satellite.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Well,&rdquo; answered Thorwald, &ldquo;we mean to see what we can of the satellite.
+      Foedric, let us point the glass at it and be selecting a place to land.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      But Foedric was obliged to let Thorwald handle the glass alone, for his
+      attention was needed just now to manage our craft. He had discovered that
+      shutting off the power did not diminish the speed, and for a moment he was
+      puzzled, quite a new sensation for a Martian of that era. But he soon
+      studied out the difficulty and made the following announcement:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I find this huge mass that we are approaching is pulling us toward its
+      surface, so that we are using but little power. I expect in a short time
+      we can merely fall to its surface.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      This suggested to Thorwald the very trouble that the doctor and I had
+      encountered with our balloon, and he asked Foedric if we could get away
+      again after we had dropped to the moon.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Yes,&rdquo; Foedric answered, &ldquo;I am sure we have power enough here to overcome
+      the attraction and get away whenever we please.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      Thorwald, who had been intently studying the surface through the
+      telescope, now spoke out with some excitement in his voice:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Doctor, I begin to think you did not make a thorough investigation of the
+      moon&rsquo;s condition. Did you not report it practically uninhabited?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Our means of investigation were rather limited,&rdquo; replied the doctor, &ldquo;but
+      we surely found no inhabitants except poor Mona, whom, I am confident, we
+      shall never see again. Why do you ask? Are there any signs of life
+      visible? I have no doubt you Martians can see more at this distance than
+      we could when standing on the globe itself.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Well,&rdquo; Thorwald answered, &ldquo;either you reached wrong conclusions or else a
+      race has grown up there pretty rapidly. I cannot make out anything
+      definite yet, but there is smoke, I am sure, and I can see some object
+      moving about.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      I had great difficulty in restraining my feelings as Thorwald uttered
+      these words, but neither he nor the doctor seemed to realize what
+      significance they had for me. Both had apparently given up all expectation
+      of finding Mona anywhere, and these evidences of life, so plain to me,
+      were therefore inexplicable to them. I controlled myself and begged
+      Thorwald to let me look through the glass. He adjusted it for me, but
+      before I could get a satisfactory view our swift motion made such a change
+      in the appearance of the surface that Thorwald could not find the same
+      spot again.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      As no one said a word to indicate any thought of connecting Mona with the
+      movements that Thorwald had observed, I determined that I would keep quiet
+      also and await the result of our landing. I let my thoughts fly to my
+      love, who, without doubt, had seen the approach of our air ship and was
+      expecting our speedy arrival. What an addition she would make to our
+      party, and how these Martians would study her history as she recounted it
+      in that exquisite voice. But I should claim a large share of her time for
+      myself. How glad I was to think that Foedric had so openly shown his
+      affection for Antonia. Surely I need not harbor the jealous feeling that
+      would arise, for so true a son of Mars could not fall to the level of some
+      earthly men, and be unfaithful to so noble a girl as Antonia. It was
+      beyond all reason, and yet my love for Mona, whom I thought we were soon
+      to find, was such that I undesignedly but still unmistakably made up my
+      mind to keep a close watch on handsome Foedric.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <hr />
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2HCH0023" id="link2HCH0023"> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      CHAPTER XXIII. WE SEARCH FOR MONA.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      We were indeed approaching the surface with great rapidity, and Foedric
+      was obliged to put on power to prevent us from falling too swiftly.
+      Fortunately he was able to keep our ship under perfect management, and so,
+      without accident or even a shock, he brought us gently to land, not far
+      from the spot where Thorwald had seen the signs of life. It was something
+      new for the latter to show so much curiosity, but he could not be more
+      eager than I was to attempt to find out what we had seen through the
+      telescope. So, leaving the rest of the party, we two started out to
+      investigate. It was kind of Thorwald to take me along, because he could
+      ordinarily walk a great deal faster without me, but my love and hope now
+      added wings to my feet and I surprised him with my agility.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Thorwald&rsquo;s skill in determining locality enabled him to choose the right
+      direction, and after quite a walk we ascended a considerable hill, from
+      which we were delighted to discover in the distance a small column of
+      smoke&mdash;a remarkable sight on that sterile shore. We hastened toward
+      it, Thorwald with high expectations of an important discovery, and I with
+      a heart beating with joyful anticipations of a different character.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      As we approached the spot of such intense interest for us both, I watched
+      my companion closely to see how he would bear the disappointment which I
+      felt sure awaited him; and this, I think, made it a little easier for me
+      to endure my own grief, for, of course, I was disappointed, too. I ought
+      to have known better than to expect to find Mona out on the bleak surface,
+      when she had such a comfortable home inside the moon. What we found at the
+      end of our journey was merely another party of Martians, who had stolen a
+      march on us and made a prior invasion of the moon. But so unselfish were
+      they that when they saw our ship afar off they began to make a smudge and
+      smoke in order to attract our attention and give us the opportunity of
+      sharing with them the glory of their anticipated discoveries. They were
+      pleased with our success in finding them, and proposed that we join our
+      forces in a common camp. So, leaving me, Thorwald returned for the rest of
+      our party, and in due time we were all together, conversing on the footing
+      of old acquaintances. The moon had improved somewhat since we knew it, as
+      everything must which remains in the vicinity of the planet Mars, but it
+      was not yet, as far as the outside, at least, was concerned, a desirable
+      place for a long sojourn.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Our new friends had, unlike us, started from home with the intention of
+      making the attempt to land on the moon, and, having come prepared with
+      tools for a little scientific work, had already begun investigating, with
+      a view to finding out whether the moon contained any vestiges of life.
+      They had heard of the doctor and me and the outlines of our story, but now
+      we had to relate to them in detail all our experience on the moon, while I
+      concluded my part of the narration with the statement of my firm
+      conviction that Mona was still in her quiet refuge, waiting for us to
+      return and rescue her. This interested them exceedingly, and they were
+      eager to join us in searching for her.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The members of our party, catching something of my hope, were ready to
+      enter at once upon this task, and it was decided to divide all our forces
+      into two companies, one to be led by the doctor and the other by me, and
+      then to start in different directions to try to find the entrance to that
+      long passage into the interior. As we knew not on what part of the moon&rsquo;s
+      surface we had alighted, we were undertaking a bold piece of work, but its
+      apparent difficulty had no terrors for the Martians, and I should not have
+      hesitated if the circumference of the moon had been a hundred times what
+      it was. As for the doctor, he had too much spirit to suggest any
+      obstacles.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      We arranged a code of signals, and agreed that if either party were
+      successful the other should be notified and the descent made only when all
+      had come together. After dividing the provisions we made our adieus and
+      separated, not knowing when we should see one another again.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      But, fortunately, our elaborate preparations were not of much use, for
+      before we had been out an hour the doctor signaled to me that he had found
+      some familiar landmarks. This meant that he was sure of discovering what
+      we were in search of, and accordingly we started at once to rendezvous
+      with his company. On our arrival I recognized, with exultant joy, the
+      features of the landscape which had attracted the doctor&rsquo;s attention. We
+      now led the way with complete assurance, and came at length to the crater
+      down whose side Mona had so strangely led us. The wind was not so strong
+      now, but I was none the less eager to descend and enter that dark way, at
+      the other end of which such happiness awaited me. By this time, also, the
+      whole party were becoming enthused over the situation. When they came to
+      see, one after another, features which they had heard us describe, they
+      acquired a personal interest which had been impossible before, and
+      everyone began to share my faith in regard to Mona.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      As we entered the tunnel, the doctor and myself still in the lead, I
+      called Avis and asked her to keep as near me as possible.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I am flattered,&rdquo; she said, &ldquo;but what do you want to have me do?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Sing,&rdquo; I answered.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;What for? You needn&rsquo;t be afraid of the dark, for we can give you light
+      enough.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      And at that instant out flashed half a dozen lamps from different members
+      of the party, a timely illustration of the use of their portable
+      electricity.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;No, Avis,&rdquo; I said, &ldquo;I am not afraid, but I would like to recall something
+      of the sensation of our first descent into the moon, when we were led, as
+      you know, by the sound of beautiful music. And then, as we near the end,
+      Mona may hear you, and that would be a more gentle introduction than if we
+      should burst upon her unannounced. I know she is not subject to fear or
+      the usual emotions to which I have been accustomed on the earth, but still
+      I think she would like to have us come back to her heralded by your noble
+      song.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      Seeing how serious I was in the matter, Avis promised to do as I wished,
+      only suggesting that all the rest should join her from time to time. So,
+      without any unpleasant incident, we traversed the long passage, walking
+      rapidly by the aid of the light and conversing about our interesting
+      situation. It was a rare and pleasing experience for the doctor and me to
+      be showing these wise Martians something new, and we enjoyed the novel
+      sensation of watching their excitement. The fact that we could so
+      satisfactorily entertain our friends after their own fashion with us was
+      something long to be remembered.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      But not another one of all the company had the intensity of feeling which
+      filled my breast. Knowing that every downward step was leading me rapidly
+      toward a determination of my fate, I could scarcely control my emotions.
+      Either I was soon to find my heart&rsquo;s life and be raised to the highest
+      pinnacle of happiness, or I was to undergo a disappointment from which I
+      might not recover. For if Mona was not here, where could I look for her?
+      Could I ever regain my hopeful spirits if I should lose her now? I tried
+      to crowd out these dark forebodings by thinking of my love and trying to
+      picture the scene in the midst of which we should discover her.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      At length we were drawing near the end. The path was growing wider, which
+      proved to the doctor and me that we should soon emerge into the open
+      village. Indeed, a faint gleam of light was beginning to be seen far in
+      the front. We now pushed on more rapidly, and as we approached the exit
+      Avis was singing at her highest pitch. She stopped suddenly, and then a
+      low and distant strain came to us, sweet even to the ears of our cultured
+      friends from Mars. My heart beat wildly as Thorwald, who was close behind
+      us, exclaimed:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Hark, hear the echo!&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Ho!&rdquo; I cried, &ldquo;that&rsquo;s not an echo. That&rsquo;s the original, and Avis is the
+      echo. Sing out again, Avis.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      A loud, clear note trembled on the air, and brought back to our straining
+      sense, not a repetition of itself but a snatch of varied melody which
+      showed it to be no echo, although evidently an answer. There have been few
+      moments in my life more crowded with happiness than that one. And it was
+      not a passive feeling of enjoyment, but one that spurred me to action. The
+      swift pace which we had all by this time reached was now too slow for me.
+      Seized again by the same fierce passion which took possession of me at my
+      first acquaintance with Mona&rsquo;s voice, I started in her direction on a run,
+      flinging aside everything that might impede me, so overmastered was I by
+      my desire to see her.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      But my unreasonable haste brought me a grievous reward. I leaped over the
+      ground with great rapidity for a few minutes, and then, stepping on a
+      treacherous stone, turned my ankle and fell heavily to the ground, my
+      head, thrust forward in running, being the first point of contact with the
+      cruel rocks.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      I returned to consciousness by degrees. My faithful ears were, as usual,
+      the first friends to renew acquaintance with me, and the sound they
+      brought was so soothing that I wished for nothing more than to remain as I
+      was, ears only, and listen to it forever. But this was impossible, as I
+      was slowly recovering my other senses and becoming a thinking being once
+      more. I now recognized the pleasant sound as the music of a familiar
+      voice; yes, it was Mona&rsquo;s voice in conversation. I was sure of that, but
+      it seemed so natural that I was not startled. I felt that I must remain
+      perfectly quiet, or the spell would be broken and the music cease. Then I
+      began to wonder where I was and who were with me. I recalled the
+      circumstances of our descent into the moon and my fall as I was running to
+      meet Mona. My mind was active, but I feared that I was physically weak,
+      for I did not seem to have even a desire to move. I wanted to see the face
+      of the dear girl, and it is remarkable that I did not open my eyes at once
+      and call her by name. But I was not in a natural state. The feeling was
+      not sufficiently strong to move me to action. I was just conscious enough
+      to be passively happy, content to lie there quietly and enjoy one thing at
+      a time.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Hitherto I had not tried to distinguish the words, so satisfied was I with
+      the exquisite tones, but now my attention was compelled by this yellow
+      expression:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;So I understand you to say he would not give me up as lost?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      It was the pink voice of Zenith that answered:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;No, indeed. He never faltered in his faith that you would be found. You
+      owe it to him that you can soon leave this worn-out world with us, and we
+      are indebted to him for giving us such a dear friend.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;And he admired my singing?&rdquo; said Mona in a questioning tone.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Yes, and everything pertaining to you. He never tired of rehearsing your
+      perfections, and the doctor tells us he loved you from the very first. He
+      certainly seems most devoted to you. I hope, my dear, that you love him.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      I was now recovered enough to feel some compunctions about listening
+      further to this conversation, but that is not saying that I had any great
+      desire to stop listening. I knew that in Mona&rsquo;s answer to Zenith&rsquo;s implied
+      question lay my fate, and my moral doubts were not strong enough to make
+      me do anything to keep it back. It has been said on the earth that people
+      who surreptitiously hear themselves spoken of are never pleased, but
+      things must be quite different inside the moon, for, without a shadow of
+      hesitation and in the sweetest air that ever floated from her lips, came
+      Mona&rsquo;s answer:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Love him? Certainly I love him. Why should I not? I loved him when he was
+      here before, and I should be very ungrateful if I did not care a great
+      deal more for him when I know what he has done for me, and that he now
+      lies here suffering for my sake.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Oh, Mona,&rdquo; I said to myself, &ldquo;if this be suffering, let me never know
+      happiness.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      Zenith began to speak again, when she was interrupted by the opening of a
+      door. I heard someone walk towards me, and then the doctor&rsquo;s voice broke
+      the silence.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;How is he, Mona? Is there any change?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;No,&rdquo; replied my beloved, &ldquo;he hasn&rsquo;t stirred nor shown a sign of
+      consciousness. Cannot something more be done for him?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      I was becoming a little hardened in my guilt by this time, and, although
+      my strength seemed now to be returning to me, I decided to keep still yet
+      longer and hear what words of wisdom the doctor would utter on my case.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I know of nothing that can be done,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;He received no injury
+      except the wound on his head, and that, apparently, is not serious. Time
+      is the great healer in such cases. My chief fear is that when he recovers
+      consciousness we will find his memory is defective, as it was after his
+      plunge into your ocean, Zenith. He will doubtless forget how we ever got
+      into this strange place, and I am almost sure he will not recognize Mona,
+      for that was the direction in which he failed before.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But you forget,&rdquo; said Zenith, &ldquo;that Mona herself will be here to sing for
+      him.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I fear not even that will recall his wandering wits this time. You know
+      he is more badly hurt than before. I dislike to cause you pain, Mona, but
+      I must be frank and tell you that our friend will probably never know you
+      again.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      One would naturally expect Mona to have burst into tears at this hopeless
+      prospect, but instead of that she sang out, as joyously as ever:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Never mind me, Doctor. Only restore him to health and happiness, and it
+      will be of little moment whether he remembers me or not. No one knows
+      better than you do that I am always happy, that&rsquo;s why I am singing all the
+      time.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      Such unselfishness as this was more than I could appreciate, and rather
+      more, I thought, than was called for by the circumstances. How could she
+      love me so, and still not care if I never were to know her again? Was she
+      the same Mona, after all, who had so provokingly eluded my love during my
+      former visit? These reflections caused me to decide to come to life, and
+      claim her as mine before she resigned all her interest in me.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      So, opening my eyes and looking in her face, I said, as quietly as
+      possible:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I do remember you, dear Mona, and shall never forget you. Doctor, you see
+      your science has proved false again.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;And glad indeed I am that it has,&rdquo; he rejoined, &ldquo;since it is so greatly
+      to our advantage.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      Then they all gathered around me, and called the others to a general
+      rejoicing over my sudden recovery. My physical injury was but slight, and
+      it was not long before my stupor was entirely gone and I was moving about
+      again. Aside from the finding of Mona, many other things in this place of
+      her abode interested the different members of our party. All were jubilant
+      over the new opportunities for study and investigation, and they promised
+      themselves the pleasure of many more visits to the place in the future.
+      They had now seen enough for once, and all wanted to join in the agreeable
+      task of escorting Mona to Mars and introducing her there. So, without more
+      delay, we ascended to the surface once more, found our air ships in good
+      order, and soon sailed away, leaving the moon without an inhabitant.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Our friends from the antipodes landed with us, and remained some days
+      before reembarking for home.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      During our voyage down there was a general agreement to give me plenty of
+      opportunity to remain in Mona&rsquo;s immediate company, though no one seemed to
+      think we need feel at all embarrassed when our conversation was overheard
+      by others.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Mona,&rdquo; I said, &ldquo;were you glad to see our relief party when they arrived?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I was indeed,&rdquo; she replied, &ldquo;and yet I was as happy as a bird, living
+      there all by myself and singing for my own amusement the whole day long.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;It is an astonishing thing to me,&rdquo; I continued, &ldquo;that after the doctor
+      and I had left you so unceremoniously you could go back to your lonely
+      home and be happy there.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Why, did you think I would mourn for you?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Well, yes, I think that would be natural, considering something I know.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Oh, I should like to hear what you know.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;If I tell you, I shall have to make a confession.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;What is a confession, and how can you make one? Have you anything to make
+      it of?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Oh, yes,&rdquo; I replied, laughing. &ldquo;A confession is an acknowledgment that
+      one has done something wrong, and should be made to the person to whom the
+      wrong has been done.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Well,&rdquo; said Mona, &ldquo;if that is it, I am sure I shall never have to make
+      one, for I have never done anything wrong.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      This agreed so well with my conception of her that I did not then take in
+      the full meaning of her words, but said in reply:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But I have, and this is one thing when you were talking to Zenith about
+      me and thought I was unconscious I was recovering, and lay quite still so
+      as to hear what you said.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;And did I say anything to displease you?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;No, indeed; you said you loved me, and it made me very happy.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Oh, I remember now. Zenith said she hoped I loved you, and I told her I
+      did. I have always loved you, of course, but I don&rsquo;t see how that can make
+      you happy.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;That&rsquo;s singular,&rdquo; I answered. &ldquo;I should think you would understand my
+      feeling from your own. But never mind. You and I will be lovers from this
+      time forth, and give the people of Mars an example of devotion worth
+      considering, will we not?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;You do make the funniest speeches,&rdquo; she replied. &ldquo;I don&rsquo;t know half the
+      time what you mean. But I am getting tired of sitting so long. Here is
+      Antonia. You talk to her about love, and I&rsquo;ll go over and see Foedric.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      The lightness of her manner, when I was so deeply in earnest, gave me a
+      feeling of uneasiness, which was increased when I saw her easy, familiar
+      way with Foedric and heard her merry song as she chatted with him. I was
+      not very pleasant company for Antonia, for I could not prevent a return of
+      that dreadful jealousy. I wondered if this was always to be the history of
+      my wooing&mdash;an hour of the supremest happiness, followed so speedily
+      by a period of such anguish. I could not possibly talk on any other
+      subject, and so I said to Antonia:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;They seem well pleased with each other&rsquo;s society. Are you not afraid
+      Foedric will lose his heart to her?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;My friend,&rdquo; she replied, &ldquo;we never even think of such things as that. I
+      hope you are not serious in asking the question.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Forgive me, Antonia,&rdquo; I answered; &ldquo;I hardly know what I am saying.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      And then I rose and followed Mona, and said to her when I came near:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Well, my dear, what do you and Foedric find so pleasant to talk about?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Why, you see,&rdquo; she replied, &ldquo;Foedric was the first one to find me after
+      you were hurt, and has been very kind to me since, and I have just been
+      telling him I love him. You said it made you happy to hear me say it to
+      you, and I wanted to make him happy too. And then I wanted to see if
+      Foedric would make such funny speeches as you did.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      I controlled myself enough to ask:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;And what did Foedric say?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Why, his answer made me laugh more than yours did. He said it would make
+      you unhappy to know I had said such a thing to him. I replied that I would
+      tell you myself, and that you were always happy when I said anything to
+      you; and then you came up just in time.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Now, Mona, do you think it is right to make sport of such a serious
+      matter?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I assure you I am in earnest in all I have said.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Then are you trying to deceive Foedric?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Deceive him? What is that?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Telling him what isn&rsquo;t true.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;No, indeed. I would never do that.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;It is true, then, that you love him?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Certainly it is; isn&rsquo;t it, Foedric?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      I did not wait for Foedric to answer, but continued:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;And still a short time ago you said you loved me.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Well, is that any wonder, after what you have done for me?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But do you love us both at once?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I do.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;And do you love Foedric as much as you do me?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Certainly. Why shouldn&rsquo;t I? And now let me ask you a question. Do you
+      love me?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;With all my heart.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Then why do you bother me so, asking all these questions, and saying
+      things I don&rsquo;t understand? You appear to be surprised to find that I love
+      Foedric. Why, I love everybody. What am I going to do, if I cannot love
+      people as much as I want to?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;You shall, Mona,&rdquo; I replied, with a sudden softening of my heart toward
+      her. &ldquo;I was only going to suggest that, if you love Foedric, Antonia may
+      not like you so well.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      Foedric began to protest that Antonia would not care, but Mona went right
+      on with:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Another complication. What possible difference could it make to Antonia?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Why, Antonia and Foedric love each other, you know.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Oh, they love each other, and therefore no one else can love either of
+      them. Is that it? But you have just been talking with Antonia. Don&rsquo;t you
+      love her?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Oh, no,&rdquo; I replied hastily. &ldquo;Or, at any rate, not in the same way that I
+      love you.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Not in the same way. That&rsquo;s another remark that I can&rsquo;t see any sense in.
+      I must say for myself that I have but one way in which to love, and that
+      is with my whole heart, without reserve or qualification. I cannot parcel
+      out my love, a little to one, a little more to another, and so on. It all
+      goes out to everyone. I couldn&rsquo;t be happy if I should try to restrain it.
+      I think it must be like this delicious sunlight, which I am just beginning
+      to enjoy, an equal comfort to all who choose to partake of it. I love you
+      dearly. What can I do more? If I love others, I am not robbing you&mdash;take
+      all you want, and then there will be just as much left.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Mona,&rdquo; I asked, as she finished, &ldquo;where did you get such a heart? You are
+      showing me how utterly selfish I have been.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Good-by,&rdquo; she exclaimed; &ldquo;I am going back to Antonia. May I love her?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;You may love everybody,&rdquo; I answered, as she left me with an exquisite
+      note on her lips.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Foedric and I fell into conversation about her. Foedric praised her to the
+      skies, saying that, if this were a fair specimen, the inhabitants of the
+      moon must have been a remarkable people, and that it was unfortunate that
+      they had so nearly passed from the stage.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      When I found opportunity to think over the situation I concluded that I
+      had given my heart to a peculiar being, and what had I received in return?
+      She loved me&mdash;that was certain. But what kind of love was this, which
+      had no respect to persons? I knew I could claim no exclusive right to the
+      least corner of her heart, and yet she said: &ldquo;All my heart is yours. What
+      more can you ask?&rdquo; I was not able to solve the riddle of her mysterious
+      nature, but as I heard her tuneful voice and watched her beautiful face as
+      she talked with Antonia, the very picture of innocent happiness, I
+      realized with great intensity that I loved her more than ever. And I
+      resolved to be patient, and try to lead her gradually into the way of
+      loving which prevailed on the earth at the time we left it.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      In due time we landed on the ruddy planet, and there was great diversion
+      for us all in seeing Mona&rsquo;s continued astonishment and in hearing her
+      varied song.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      It seemed almost like home to enter Thorwald&rsquo;s house again, where we found
+      everything just as we had left it. The children did not exhibit any
+      astonishment at our long absence, but were glad to see us back and eager
+      to hear about our adventures.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The next morning after our arrival Thorwald gave us a long ride in an
+      electric carriage to show Mona the country. Returning, we took her about
+      the large house and were all delighted to hear her naive remarks. At
+      length Zenith asked Thorwald if he could not think of something that would
+      interest us all.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <hr />
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2HCH0024" id="link2HCH0024"> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      CHAPTER XXIV. THE PICTURE TELEGRAPH.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Let us step into the music room,&rdquo; said Thorwald. &ldquo;Doctor, what
+      acquaintance have you with the telephone?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;We think we have brought the telephone to a considerable degree of
+      perfection,&rdquo; said the doctor. &ldquo;At first it was rather crude, and many
+      preferred to forego its use in order to escape its annoyances. But of
+      recent years great improvements have been made, until its employment is
+      now a pleasure, as well as an essential help in our business and social
+      life.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Does it minister to any other sense than the hearing?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;It does not, although I have seen a vague promise somewhere of an
+      invention by which we could see an image of the person we were speaking
+      to.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;If that is all, I shall be able to give you a pleasant surprise,&rdquo; pursued
+      Thorwald. &ldquo;Just sit in those chairs, and do nothing but keep your eyes
+      open and listen.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      We saw him arrange a series of long panels, in which were elegant mirrors,
+      and then, as he gently pulled an ivory knob, there fell upon our ears,
+      very faintly, like distant echoes, strains of the most delicious music.
+      Gradually the tones became louder and more defined, and Zenith, with a
+      quick smile and glance, directed our attention to the opposite side of the
+      room. There our wondering eyes beheld the orchestra with whose notes we
+      were then enchanted. There must have been a hundred players or more, and
+      we seemed to be looking upon them from a distance which would bring the
+      whole group within the bounds of the room. It was not a picture thrown on
+      a screen, but was as if the musicians were actually present. Every motion
+      made with their instruments was in exact accord with the accompanying
+      note, and, wherever this orchestra might have its local habitation, it was
+      certainly playing before our little audience that morning.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      As the selection ended the scene faded away under the manipulation of
+      Thorwald, and in a moment the room was filled with a harmony of voices
+      such as I had never heard on the earth. And now the great chorus appeared,
+      crowding this time three sides of the apartment and rising, tier on tier,
+      to the ceiling. We could see the glad faces of the singers and knew how
+      they must be enjoying their work. Brilliant solo parts burst out from one
+      side and the other, and again from the middle throng, but it was
+      impossible to tell from what individual singers these notes came.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      When this scene, too, had passed and the music, all too soon, had ceased,
+      Thorwald made haste to answer the inquiry he saw in our faces by saying:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;These concerts are now being given in two cities, both of them several
+      thousand miles east of here, so far that it is now afternoon there. If we
+      desire music after dinner this evening we can make connection with some
+      city west of us, and by going farther west we can invoke sweet sounds to
+      soothe us to sleep. Being connected with all the musical centers, you can
+      see how, by trying either one direction or the other, we can have
+      something worth hearing at any hour of the day or night, with the players
+      and singers themselves employed, of course, only in the daytime. We have
+      daily programmes of every concert sent us by telephone. They are received
+      here, you see, and printed automatically on these sheets.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      Zenith had watched us with eager interest during this marvelous
+      exhibition. It was a novel experience, for they had never before had the
+      opportunity of showing this perfected invention to those entirely ignorant
+      of it, and they both enjoyed seeing the pleasure which must have beamed
+      from our faces. I wanted to say something, but could think of nothing fit
+      for the occasion, and was relieved to hear the doctor speak:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;My good friends,&rdquo; said he, &ldquo;do not try to show us anything beyond this or
+      we shall lose our mental balance. I believe in fairyland now, for I have
+      just come from there. I never paid much attention to music on the earth,
+      and did not feel any shame for it either, but I am now sure it will be to
+      my everlasting disgrace if I neglect it another day.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      This speech pleased Zenith exceedingly, and her emotion made her voice and
+      manner more charming than ever as she said:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;If you stay with us, Doctor, you shall have plenty of good music, and you
+      will soon become not only a music lover but a music maker, for every
+      Martian is proficient in this art.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Do you think,&rdquo; asked the doctor, &ldquo;that there is the faintest hope that
+      the earthly music will ever reach the high standard of that we have just
+      heard?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Thorwald has told me something of your history,&rdquo; Zenith replied, &ldquo;and I
+      share his strong faith in your happy destiny. It seems to me that your
+      race is equal to any achievement you have witnessed here, and even greater
+      things, but it will take much time. Such changes are very slow. As for us,
+      we hope we are still making advancement in music. We have few higher
+      employments, and hardly one in which we are more entirely engrossed. It
+      was given to us at an early stage of our development, and all through our
+      troubled course music has been one of the chief influences for good. It
+      has helped to keep hope alive during the darkest periods of our history,
+      and has always been a mighty incentive toward a higher spiritual state. As
+      your race advances I am sure you will realize more and more the beauty and
+      value of this art, heaven-born and exhaustless.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      We all smiled at Zenith&rsquo;s happy assurance that the earth was on the upward
+      path, and Thorwald said:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;You see hope is contagious. But as we have been through all your present
+      troubles and have triumphed over them, it is perhaps easier for us to
+      believe in you than for you to believe in yourselves.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;And now, should you like to see how the telephone works in every-day
+      matters?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      On our replying in the affirmative, Thorwald turned a switch, waited a
+      moment, turned it again, and then there appeared before our eyes a
+      familiar object, nothing less than the ship in which we had made our
+      recent voyage. A number of the men, whom we recognized, were walking about
+      the deck, and one stood apart, near the side of the vessel, conversing
+      with Thorwald, the words of both being audible to us. When they were
+      through, the scene faded away and Thorwald said:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;As soon as the ship reached its dock connection was made with the general
+      system of wires, and the instrument, which is stationed near the place
+      where the man was standing, was ready for use.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;So, whenever we desire to talk to our friends, we summon them to our
+      presence. You see it is not necessary to speak directly into the
+      transmitter. We can sit comfortably in our chairs and converse as easily
+      as when our friends are actually present.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Let me ask you, Thorwald,&rdquo; said the doctor, &ldquo;how all the electricity you
+      use is generated? The immense quantity you employ must necessitate a great
+      deal of power to produce it. Is there a huge plant in every city driven by
+      steam?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;No,&rdquo; answered Thorwald. &ldquo;We make no use of steam in these days. All the
+      power we need is obtained from natural waterfalls and rapids. This power,
+      which nature has placed ready made at our hand, is so abundant that it can
+      never be exhausted.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;These waterfalls must fortunately be well distributed,&rdquo; remarked the
+      doctor.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Not more so, I presume, than on the earth,&rdquo; Thorwald made answer. &ldquo;Every
+      stream that runs in its bed has in it a power proportioned to the volume
+      of water and the swiftness of its current. Think of the amount of water
+      wasted every day in this way&mdash;no, not wasted, but unused. We do not
+      need, however, to utilize ordinary streams, as there are enough great
+      falls where power is transformed into electricity to be sent over wires to
+      any distance required. In every city or district large storage facilities
+      are provided from which power can be obtained for all possible purposes.
+      Our beds of coal and wells of oil were long since exhausted, but while
+      rain falls and water runs this power can never fail us.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Doctor, what is the best metal you have for transmitting electricity?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Copper,&rdquo; answered my companion. &ldquo;Silver is a little better conductor, and
+      a new metal, called glucinium, is better still, but both of these are too
+      expensive for general use. Our telegraph and telephone wires were formerly
+      made of iron for the sake of economy, but copper is now used for these
+      lines, as well as for distributing electricity on a large scale. The
+      copper wire now commonly used for the telegraph has a resistance of
+      something like four ohms to the mile.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;You are making good progress,&rdquo; said Thorwald. &ldquo;But we have a metal of
+      such good conducting qualities that, without making the wire too large for
+      convenient use, we have reduced the resistance to an ohm to the mile.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;That is an exceedingly valuable metal,&rdquo; the doctor said. &ldquo;And now let me
+      ask you a practical question. You say you draw your electricity for a
+      thousand and one uses from a large storage plant in each city. Do you pay
+      for it by the kilowatt, or how is it measured?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;We ask for so many watts or kilowatts, and it is also measured by the
+      watt hour. But are you serious in asking if we pay for it?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Why, you surely do not mean it is given away,&rdquo; exclaimed the doctor,
+      &ldquo;after all the expense connected with producing and transmitting it.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Yes, I mean that whatever quantity we want to use is ours for the asking.
+      Before we could buy it some one would have to own it, and that could never
+      be. Besides, how could we buy anything without money?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;What! No money either?&rdquo; broke in the doctor again. &ldquo;Well, if you can get
+      along without money, that accounts in my mind for much of your happiness.
+      Just think of that,&rdquo; continued the doctor, turning to me, &ldquo;to be forever
+      rid of money and all the trouble it brings.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Of what value would it be to us?&rdquo; asked Thorwald. &ldquo;We could not use it.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Some of our people on the earth,&rdquo; replied the doctor, &ldquo;have oceans of it
+      which they cannot use, and still they seem to think it is of much value.
+      It is an inherent characteristic of our race to love the mere possession
+      of money or other property, and human nature must change a great deal
+      before we can begin to reach the exalted moral condition which you now
+      enjoy, to say nothing of your spiritual state.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Your nature will change,&rdquo; said Thorwald, &ldquo;and do not doubt that the
+      change has already begun. Time is what you need, and there is time enough
+      for everything.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      After the midday lunch had been served we were invited to take a walk
+      about the grounds. As the doctor and I were admiring the beautiful lawns
+      and gorgeous beds of flowers, and then stood enraptured at the sight of
+      the noble mansion itself, Zenith watched us eagerly, and finally said,
+      with a smile:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;You discovered my favorite department of art this morning. Now is a good
+      time to learn what Thorwald&rsquo;s is.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Judging from what we have already seen and heard of your husband,&rdquo; said
+      I, &ldquo;it seems to me he must be an astronomer, or, if not that, then a
+      theological professor.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;If he has been talking to you on either of those subjects,&rdquo; she returned,
+      &ldquo;I have no doubt he told you things worth taking home with you, but his
+      pet topics of study are architecture and its sister art, landscape
+      gardening. This house is a creature of his brain, and all the artistic
+      effects in color and pattern, which I know you have the taste to admire,
+      are of his designing.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      The simple, unaffected manner in which Zenith showed her pride in her
+      husband&rsquo;s achievements was refreshing, and the knowledge she imparted only
+      added still more to our high appreciation of our friend.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      It was now time for Thorwald to speak, and he remarked quietly:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;It is true that I love architecture. It is another occupation of which we
+      can never tire and whose resources we can never fathom. A beautiful,
+      dignified, and truly artistic building is one of the highest possible
+      products of our civilization, and such work brings out all the poetic
+      feeling in one&rsquo;s nature, just as the production of a fine painting or
+      piece of sculpture does. These arts, and literature as well, all have
+      their special devotees among us, but everyone knows enough of all arts to
+      appreciate and enjoy good work in every department.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;We build truthfully, and this helps to make what we build beautiful, for
+      truth is beautiful wherever it is found; and beauty is an object to be
+      sought after for its own sake, an enjoyable thing well worth striving for.
+      Religion and art, using both those terms in a comprehensive sense, have
+      worked together, through all our history, to lift up our souls and fit
+      them for higher and higher duties.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Thorwald,&rdquo; said Zenith, &ldquo;I think our friends would enjoy seeing some of
+      our imposing buildings and other works of art while this subject is before
+      them.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      That this was not a suggestion that we should start on an extended tour of
+      the country was proved by Thorwald, who said:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Very well, we will then go into the music room again, if you please.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      Here we were shown, by the new powers of the telephone, a bewildering
+      succession of the grandest structures our imagination could picture:
+      churches and cathedrals, college buildings, observatories, museums, music
+      halls and private residences. These were not like pictures or views; but
+      the structures themselves, in full perspective and in all the richness of
+      their coloring, seemed to stand before us. Trees waving in the breeze,
+      people and carriages passing in the streets and occasionally a movement at
+      a window or door, all aided the illusion and made it difficult to realize
+      that we were not in the midst of the scenes we were gazing upon.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Thorwald or Zenith told us the name or purpose of each building as it
+      appeared, and the novel exhibition closed with the presentation of a large
+      and splendid playhouse.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      As this was announced I involuntarily exclaimed:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;So you have kept the theater, have you? Some good people on the earth
+      think the drama is demoralizing.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;That,&rdquo; said Zenith, &ldquo;is probably because you have allowed it to become
+      debased. We read in our histories of such a period here. Indeed, for a
+      long time both the play and the opera were abolished, our advancing
+      civilization having given them up under the impression that the good in
+      them was overbalanced by the evil. But when the era of a more noble
+      personal character had come the drama was revived, and now is not only a
+      source of innocent pleasure but is also a decided help to our growth.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I recognize the house we are now looking at. It is in quite a distant
+      city, and I see Thorwald has purposely chosen it because at this moment an
+      able company is presenting there one of our most popular plays. Would you
+      like to hear some of it?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      No sooner were these words uttered than we saw Thorwald make a slight
+      movement of the switch, and, lo! the scene was changed to the interior of
+      the building, and there before us was the Martian theater in full play. We
+      sat as it were in the dress circle, with the orchestra and stage in our
+      front. All was beauty and life around us, and the richness and harmonious
+      coloring of the whole interior were simply beyond description. The play
+      was going on in a quiet, dignified manner and every word and gesture were
+      characterized with the greatest naturalness. It struck the doctor and me
+      as a peculiar feature that, while we could hear everything that was said
+      on the stage and even the rustle of the people around us, we ourselves
+      could talk and laugh without being noticed. This effect was produced by an
+      ingenious attachment to the telephone, and the doctor was moved to remark:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;This is an altogether comfortable and satisfactory situation.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Yes,&rdquo; added Zenith, &ldquo;we think it is almost as good as being actually
+      present in the theater.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      We assured her it was better, in our opinion, and then we thanked them
+      both for the pleasure they had given us. But we began to think their
+      resources for entertaining their friends would never be exhausted when
+      Thorwald told us he would, at some future time, show us specimens of their
+      paintings, sculpture, fine porcelain, elegant furniture, and many other
+      works of art.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      One morning, a few days later, as we were rising from breakfast, Thorwald
+      said:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Well, my friends, I suppose you will go to church with us to-day?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;To church?&rdquo; asked we in one breath.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Yes, this is Sunday.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Oh, is it?&rdquo; I said. &ldquo;I began to think you didn&rsquo;t have Sunday here. It is
+      now eight days since our return from the moon, and this is the first we
+      have heard of it.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Let me see,&rdquo; said Thorwald, &ldquo;I believe this is the first Sunday we have
+      spent at home since you came to us.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Then how long is your week?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Ten days.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;That accounts for our misunderstanding,&rdquo; I said, &ldquo;for our Sunday comes
+      every seventh day.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;That is an odd number,&rdquo; returned Thorwald. &ldquo;With us the week is the basis
+      of our decimal method of reckoning. We have one hundred minutes in an hour
+      and ten hours in a day.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      Of course we were ready to go to church, and when we were on the way,
+      seated in a comfortable carriage, the doctor said to Thorwald:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;If for any reason you do not care to go out on Sunday, I suppose you can
+      all repair to your music room, turn that little switch, and listen to the
+      best preacher and the best church music in the land. But do not imagine by
+      that remark that we have any fault to find with this method of going to
+      church. For my part, I think I prefer it.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I perceive,&rdquo; answered Thorwald, &ldquo;that you have a good idea of the
+      capabilities of the telephone, but I shall have to correct you in this
+      case. Our instruments are not connected with any of the churches. But
+      to-morrow we can get, by asking through the telephone, phonograph rolls of
+      any sermons that are delivered to-day. If we preferred we could get them
+      in print, but the phonograph is pleasanter. This instrument is now so
+      perfect that the imitation of the speaker&rsquo;s words and tones is faultless.
+      The works of all our authors can be obtained in this form, and our
+      libraries consist in great part of phonograph rolls. Even the poets of
+      former generations speak to us, and the voice of the singer adds its charm
+      to the song.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But you will want to ask me why we do not extend the use of the telephone
+      to the churches. We learned long ago that it is a good thing for people to
+      come together for worship and that nothing will take the place of it. We
+      do not go for an intellectual treat nor to enjoy the music, but only for
+      worship, and we try to keep our forms simple yet dignified and as fitting
+      as possible in all ways. Some day I must tell you through what
+      difficulties we have passed in church ceremonies and church government.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <hr />
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2HCH0025" id="link2HCH0025"> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      CHAPTER XXV. AN UNSATISFACTORY LOVER.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      It was delightful to live in the same world with Mona, not for me only but
+      for every one who knew her. No one could help loving her; there was simply
+      nothing else to do. Others did not make as much show of their affection as
+      I did, perhaps because no one else was selfish enough to claim the same
+      personal rights in her, but I found every new acquaintance she made
+      succumbed to the power of her many charms. The secret of this general
+      homage was her own loving nature, which just worked itself out
+      spontaneously, but the more her love was shed abroad the more she retained
+      for new-comers. At first my naturally jealous disposition continued to
+      give me long hours of anguish, but I happily was able to overcome this to
+      a great extent as I became better acquainted with her marvelous spirit.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Although I was at that time too much under the spell of this fair creature
+      to form an unprejudiced judgment of her, I have since then attempted
+      something of the kind, in comparing her in my mind with Antonia and others
+      whom we met in Mars. Let me say that the Martians are not a perfect race.
+      With our undeveloped spiritual natures we could not, during our entire
+      visit, see any imperfections in them; but, as will be seen further on in
+      this narrative, our good friends Thorwald and Zenith, under whose
+      instructions kind fortune had placed us, were particular to tell us that
+      their race had reached only an advanced state of civilization, to which
+      the earth might one day attain, and that perfection was still a dream of
+      the future. Taking Antonia, then, as a representative of her kind, I can
+      see that she had a solidly formed character. She was what she was, not
+      because she could not help it but because she herself willed it. That is,
+      when she might have done wrong she chose to do right. Her connection with
+      temptation was not entirely through her remote ancestors, whose sins
+      filled such a large page in their history, but she herself had felt
+      drawings toward evil. Yet so slightly had she yielded, and so strongly had
+      her right years of living buttressed her against all kinds of wrong, that
+      she, as well as all of her race whom we saw, appeared to us about perfect.
+      Theoretically she might transgress, but practically it was all but
+      impossible. Hers, then, was a truly noble character, and when she gave her
+      love to Foedric he had good reason to be proud of the gift. Nor did she
+      defraud others of their due, but her heart was open to every proper call.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Such was Antonia, one whom we could in some degree appreciate, although so
+      far above us. But how could we understand a being like Mona, who told us,
+      and we saw no reason to disbelieve her, that she had never known what it
+      was to do wrong? She seemed as incapable of evil as the birds of the air,
+      or, to make the comparison still stronger, as a beautiful rose. She was
+      guileless by nature, and goodness and truth were as much a part of her as
+      her beauty was. She was made to be a joy and comfort to every creature
+      brought within the circle of her influence, and she could no more help
+      loving than the sun can help shining. All who came near her received a
+      share of her gracious beams.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      She was unselfish and full of sympathy and every right feeling, not
+      because she had seen the evils of selfishness and meanness, but because
+      these latter qualities were utterly unknown to her. Her high character and
+      perfectly correct life, therefore, were not the result of reason and
+      choice, but were the instinctive manifestations of her pure nature.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      I do not undertake to say which of these two presented the higher type of
+      womanhood, and I certainly entered into no such speculations about them at
+      that time, but I never had any difficulty in deciding that Mona was the
+      one I loved. I did not, of course, relish her fondness for others. In that
+      respect I considered her nature altogether too ardent, but I found I must
+      get accustomed to it, as she would not change.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      It made me quite despondent at times, fearing I could never lead her to
+      feel any special liking for me. Then when she smiled upon me and sang so
+      sweetly to me, I thought I ought to be happy though I had to share her
+      heart with all the world. Still I did not relax my efforts to make my
+      share larger.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Mona,&rdquo; I said, one day, &ldquo;I wish you would ask me to do something real
+      hard for you.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Why?&rdquo; she asked.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;So that I could show you how much I love you.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But you have already shown me,&rdquo; she said. &ldquo;I cannot think of anything
+      more difficult than you have done. Did you not keep up a firm belief that
+      I would be found, even after the doctor and these wise men of Mars had
+      lost all hope, and did you not, by your enthusiasm, prevail on them to
+      enter on a difficult search for me on the moon? I have heard all about
+      your deep concern for me and how you were affected by hearing singing
+      which you thought was like mine. And now that I have been found, you are
+      so watchful for my comfort and like to be so near me all the time, that I
+      am sure I do not need any further proof of your strong attachment. But why
+      do you pay me so much attention? Why do you not like to be with Antonia as
+      much as with me?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Because I do not love her as much as I do you.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Why do you love me so? Because I took you down to my quiet home and saved
+      you from being blown off the top of the moon?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;No, the doctor and I are both grateful to you for that kindness, but
+      gratitude isn&rsquo;t love.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I haven&rsquo;t done anything else for you,&rdquo; she said.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;It isn&rsquo;t for anything you have done that I love you.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;What then?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Oh, I don&rsquo;t know. I suppose it is because I can&rsquo;t help it.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Oh, then you are becoming like me, for I can&rsquo;t help loving everybody.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I shall never be good enough for that,&rdquo; said I. &ldquo;What is love, as you
+      understand it?&rdquo; asked Mona.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Love&mdash;love,&rdquo; I hesitated; &ldquo;why, it is the feeling I have in my heart
+      for you. Love is what kept hope alive when you were lost and gave me such
+      joy when I heard your voice and knew we had found you. Love makes every
+      task light that is done for you and every place where you are the
+      brightest spot in the universe. Even this delightful world of Mars is more
+      beautiful than ever because you are here. Love, if mutual, is a precious
+      bond, uniting two hearts and making them beat in harmony. Cannot you and I
+      be joined in heart, Mona?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;My dear friend,&rdquo; she replied, &ldquo;I am very sorry I cannot share your
+      feeling, but I do not understand such love as you have been trying to
+      describe.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Then I fear you do not love me,&rdquo; I responded, with great sadness in my
+      voice.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Oh, don&rsquo;t say that,&rdquo; she exclaimed. &ldquo;Indeed I do love you. Now, how can I
+      prove it to you? What is the opposite of love?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Hatred; or, in such a case as this, indifference would be about as bad as
+      anything.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Well, I don&rsquo;t know much about such things, but do I seem like a person
+      who could hate you or be indifferent to you?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;No, Mona, you seem to be the most loving creature in all the worlds we
+      have ever known, but&mdash;&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Oh, do not spoil that fine speech with a &lsquo;but.&rsquo; I know what you want to
+      say. You think I ought to love you more than anyone else, or in some
+      different way. Now, that desire of yours is what I cannot understand. I
+      love everybody alike because I know of no other sentiment. So it is a
+      matter of course with me, and I do not feel obliged to tell people that I
+      love them. You seem to make too much of it, coming to me everyday and
+      telling me, over and over again, that you love me, just as if I doubted
+      it. Why do you like to be with me so much? Do you think it is right to be
+      so exclusive? You ought to favor the others with your company. As for me,
+      I must say I prefer Foedric&rsquo;s society to yours, because he has so many
+      interesting things to talk about, while you stick continually to one
+      subject and give me little information even on that one. You know I am a
+      new-comer here and eager to learn all I can. Then there&rsquo;s the doctor. I
+      take more pleasure conversing with him than with you, for he seems to know
+      more, or, at any rate, to be more able to tell me things I want to know
+      about the earth. If the doctor were not here and you were the only one to
+      judge from, I should be obliged to think the people of the earth a very
+      curious race. Your companion, however, appears to be a man of considerable
+      sense.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      Mona sang all this in her easy, natural way, being perfectly free from any
+      intention of wounding my feelings, but the more innocent I believed her
+      the more incapable I saw she was of entering into my feelings. I began to
+      realize how, in loving everybody, she missed a certain enjoyment derived
+      from a more selfish order of love. It then occurred to me that a world
+      full of such people as Mona must have rather a monotonous time from our
+      point of view, and I asked her if she could tell me about her race in
+      general respecting the subject of our conversation.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Certainly,&rdquo; she replied, &ldquo;I can tell you something from my own
+      recollections, but more from our traditions.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Well, were the men of the moon all sensible, or were they all like me?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Oh, I see you have a little sense as soon as you begin to talk in a new
+      direction. In answer to your question, let me say that the stress you have
+      put on our personal relations is something entirely new to me, and I do
+      not see any use or advantage in it. This must be my excuse for speaking so
+      plainly. I should not have spoken so had I not known, in spite of what I
+      have said, that you had too much sense to be offended.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I thank you,&rdquo; I said. &ldquo;Do not apologize for your words. I have taken them
+      as a needed rebuke for my haste in appropriating you to myself. But I
+      believe, Mona, that the time will come when you will know the happiness of
+      loving one person so much that your love for all others will not be
+      thought of in comparison. Happy will he be who, in that day, is able to
+      prove the capacity of your great heart.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Then, in that day,&rdquo; she responded, &ldquo;shall I prove myself to be the
+      degenerate daughter of a noble race. No, my friend, we were not made of
+      such stuff. We loved everybody, without question and without limit. We
+      could do nothing else, and to love one more than another was therefore
+      impossible.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Let me ask if everyone was worthy of being loved?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Why, as to that, we were all alike. What do you think of me?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;You know what I think of you, Mona; or, if you do not, I will tell you.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Yes; you needn&rsquo;t tell me again. What I wanted to say is, that I am no
+      better than the rest of my people were.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;What a world it must have been then,&rdquo; I exclaimed, &ldquo;and how fortunate
+      that the earth did not discover it earlier. With such an example before us
+      we should have been utterly discouraged.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      When Mona had left me at the close of this conversation, I proceeded to
+      take stock of my sensations. I had certainly been seeing a new phase of
+      Mona&rsquo;s character. Could I make such vigorous language consistent with my
+      former conception of her? I answered yes to this question after studying
+      it awhile, for I concluded that she was only just in giving me a lesson
+      that I deserved. Her innocence was only the more evident, and that was the
+      ground on which I built my faith in her. But now came the inquiry whether
+      my love could withstand such a shock as it had received. I was no longer
+      blind to the truth. Mona had no stronger affection for me than for her
+      other friends, and it began to be doubtful if she ever would have,
+      considering her peculiar education in affairs of the heart. If I continued
+      to love her, it must be with the full knowledge that I had not as yet
+      gained the slightest success in my effort to secure her for my own
+      exclusive possession. My exuberant passion had received a serious shock,
+      for I had been plainly told that it was making me appear ridiculous. Then,
+      when there seemed to be danger that my love must grow cold under such
+      treatment, I began to argue Mona&rsquo;s cause to myself, and I bade myself take
+      comfort once more in the old thoughts. She was young and careless, besides
+      being entirely new to our manner of wooing, and I had been too hasty in my
+      approaches and no doubt tired her with my continuous solicitations. But
+      then, on the other hand, I continued, the case seemed much more hopeless
+      than before after such a plain rebuff, and if I had any self-respect I
+      could not continue to pay my court where my honest love was made a matter
+      of jest.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      These thoughts passed rapidly through my mind, and I cannot tell to what
+      rash resolve they would have led me had not the music of Mona&rsquo;s laughing
+      voice just then come floating in from another room. As usual, this was
+      more than I could resist, and its immediate effect now was to drive out
+      reason and to enthrone love once more. All my doubt and uncertainty
+      vanished in a twinkling, my self-respect hid itself in a dark corner of my
+      memory, and as I instinctively started to find the fair singer I realized
+      again, with a feeling too strong for argument, that I was still very much
+      in love.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <hr />
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2HCH0026" id="link2HCH0026"> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      CHAPTER XXVI. AN ENVIABLE CONDITION.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      Our life in this cultured home continued to be as pleasant as were these
+      first days. There was always something new to show us or to tell us. We
+      would walk out every day and often step into a carriage and take a long
+      ride. Our friends were famous walkers but were considerate of our
+      feebleness, and still our returning strength, added to the great buoyancy
+      of our bodies on that smaller planet, soon gave us also remarkable walking
+      powers.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Sometimes the children would accompany us on an all-day excursion, and
+      then the house would be left not only unlocked, but with the doors wide
+      open perhaps. When we remarked on this, Zenith told us that if anyone
+      happened along he would be at perfect liberty to go in and help himself to
+      anything in the house. This was always understood, whether the people were
+      at home or not, and one need not even go through the formality of asking,
+      if he could see what he wanted. This referred not merely to bodily
+      refreshment, of which one might be in need, but literally to everything
+      the house contained; and the reason why there was any sort of comfort
+      living under such conditions was, that the members of that society were
+      all and severally of such ripe characters that it was well known one would
+      not deprive another of anything he was using except for a reason which
+      would be satisfactory to both.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;If we could communicate with the people on the earth,&rdquo; said the doctor to
+      me when we sat alone conversing about these things, &ldquo;and tell them how the
+      inhabitants here live, they would want to organize an expedition and start
+      for Mars right away.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Yes, I think they would,&rdquo; I assented. &ldquo;And yet, if what Thorwald says is
+      true, the earth will one day be as good as Mars. Do you believe it?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Well, the fact is,&rdquo; answered the doctor, &ldquo;I am ready to believe almost
+      anything now.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Oh, I wish Thorwald could hear you say that.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I should not object,&rdquo; he continued. &ldquo;I am sure that some power, not
+      comprehended by our science or philosophy, has operated here to bring
+      these people to the condition in which we find them, and if the same kind
+      forces are at work on the earth, let us hope they will do as much for us,
+      no matter how much time it takes. If a belief in such a power is faith,
+      then perhaps I am beginning to have a little faith.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I remember I used to hear our preachers in their public prayers ask God
+      that every form of vice and crime might be banished from the earth, and
+      that the time might come when there should be no more sin, but only love
+      and beauty and happiness. I have heard such prayers a hundred times, and
+      never thought much about them. But now I am forced to think, and it seems
+      to me that these prayers would not be made continually unless there were a
+      hope and expectation in the minds of religious people that they would some
+      time be answered. It is not for me to assume that such a hope is
+      unreasonable, drawn as it is from the book which so many believe is the
+      word of God.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      I rejoiced to hear my friend talk in this way, but it seemed very odd that
+      he should be preaching my own doctrine to me. I had had the same thoughts,
+      and had been trying to find the right time to offer them to the doctor. I
+      am sure I was thankful that he was coming to such views without a word
+      from me, for he would probably be much more apt to hold to them.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The foregoing conversation was in the evening, and the next morning we
+      were all sitting comfortably in the music room, when Thorwald said:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;The other day I began to give you some orderly account of our history,
+      but you see how it has been broken into by the relation of different
+      phases, in answer to your questions. It seems to me now that it will be
+      more interesting to you if I continue in the same way and take up one
+      subject at a time. And now that we have a little time before us, I wish
+      you would suggest some point upon which you would like to have me talk;
+      that is, if it is agreeable to you.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      To which the doctor replied:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I like your plan very much and I am sure we both have plenty of questions
+      which will keep you supplied with topics. I have desired for some time to
+      ask you about your industrial system. I can see how electricity has
+      relieved you of the most arduous labor, but there must remain much
+      disagreeable work, as we would call it, to be done with the hand. In our
+      busy life there are a thousand such tasks, which I cannot conceive of
+      being performed by machinery, many of them hard only because they are
+      monotonous and awake no interest or enthusiasm in the performer. Men and
+      women are continually wearing themselves out with such work. You must have
+      abolished all that, if everybody here is comfortable and happy. I am very
+      anxious to hear how it has been done.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;In answering your question,&rdquo; Thorwald began, &ldquo;let me say, first, that I
+      presume we have learned to employ machines in a great many ways which to
+      you would seem incomprehensible. The drudgery and much of the monotony of
+      labor have been removed, as well as its severity. But still, as you
+      surmise, there is plenty of work for all. Our higher civilization does not
+      require less work than yours, but rather more and of greater variety. It
+      is all done quietly, however, without friction or any of the unpleasant
+      features of former times.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I suspect that the real secret of the change is in the elevation of
+      individual character. This has done more to better our condition than
+      electricity and all the material improvements and inventions of the age.
+      You must believe me when I say that no sort of labor is considered
+      disgraceful, and, further, that one occupation is just as honorable as
+      another. The man who goes into the mine and superintends the machine which
+      gathers the precious metal is esteemed as highly as he who, with an
+      artist&rsquo;s brain and fingers, shapes it to its highest use. The carpenter
+      who works with his hands in the building of the house can hold his head as
+      high as the architect who has spent many years in learning how to create
+      the design. Why not? Both are engaged on the same work, each one in his
+      favorite, and so his best, way. Both are working, not for daily bread or
+      other selfish end, but for the sake of doing something useful. The perfect
+      content and satisfaction we all enjoy in our labor come partly from our
+      abundant health and strength, and largely, also, from our entire freedom
+      from anxiety in regard to the means of maintenance for ourselves and our
+      families. In these respects we are all equally fortunate. We are
+      absolutely unconcerned about what material things we shall have for
+      ourselves or leave to our children.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Do you then all have equal pay for your work, and that so much that it
+      places you above anxiety?&rdquo; asked the doctor.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Yes,&rdquo; answered Thorwald, &ldquo;we are all paid equally, because we are not
+      paid at all. So, having no wages and owning no property, why should we be
+      anxious? You know I have told you we can have for our use anything that is
+      produced or made without even asking anybody for it. The mere fact that we
+      need a thing makes it rightfully ours.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But what is the incentive to labor if you get nothing for it, and can
+      live just as well without it?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;The incentive is in the love for our work and the consciousness that we
+      are doing something to make someone happier and the world a little better.
+      Let me give you an illustration, a personal one, if you will excuse me. A
+      neighbor asks me to make him a plan for a house. He may be a writer of
+      books or he may be a carriage maker, or what not, it makes not the
+      slightest difference. I enjoy that kind of work and, having obtained his
+      ideas in regard to a house, I do the best I can. I cannot conceive that I
+      could do any better if I knew he would pay me for the work, as you say. In
+      like manner he asks other neighbors to build his house for him, and he has
+      no difficulty in finding enough men who enjoy that occupation as much as I
+      do my part of the work, and the principle which governs them in their
+      labor is as high as that which controls me.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Then,&rdquo; said the doctor, &ldquo;I should think the poor man&mdash;I beg your
+      pardon, I mean the hod-carrier&mdash;could have as grand a house as the
+      architect himself.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I don&rsquo;t know what a hod-carrier is,&rdquo; replied Thorwald, &ldquo;but I get your
+      meaning, and you are quite right. As an example of just that state of
+      things, I will tell you that the man who tends the digging machine in my
+      garden lives in a larger and handsomer house than this one. Why not? He
+      has a large family, and he and his wife are educated and refined people.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But with no physical wants to provide against, I should think some men
+      would find existence easier not to work at all. According to your theory
+      they could live in as good style as the toilers and have no one to call
+      them to account.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;No one but themselves. Every man is his own monitor, and he needs no
+      other. He knows his duty, and he has that within him which keeps him up to
+      it more effectually than any outside influence could. In regard to a man&rsquo;s
+      not caring to work, we have been through all that, and we have now no such
+      cases. We found out long ago that it is better to have some one stated
+      employment and follow it. But this does not mean that the work becomes a
+      burden. One can rest as often and as long as he pleases. There is no one
+      to intimate in any way that he should be at work, as the question is left
+      entirely to him. The moment that work ceases to be a necessity it becomes
+      a pleasure and the most natural thing in the world. The multiplication of
+      mechanical inventions has greatly reduced the volume of labor, so that
+      there is really but little for each individual to do; and the truth is,
+      there is never any lack of men. If anything, there is not enough work.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Your words,&rdquo; said the doctor, &ldquo;reveal a remarkable condition of affairs,
+      and I fear it will be many, many years before we can begin to think
+      seriously of such a plan, so long as to make it almost hopeless; but there
+      is one more question I would like to ask. With all this freedom of choice,
+      how does it happen that all do not flock to the easy and pleasant
+      occupations, and leave the disagreeable tasks undone?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      To this Thorwald replied:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Let me ask you, Doctor, if you have not an answer to your question in
+      your own industrial system. Do you not always find men to do every
+      required work, no matter how hard and distasteful it may seem to you? I do
+      not mean that the parallel is exact, but this seems to be governed now, as
+      it has always been, by a dispensation of nature. We are born with
+      different tastes and inclinations. Each one chooses his own occupation,
+      and it comes to pass providentially, just as it did in the olden time,
+      that all do not choose alike.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Are all equally well educated?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;No, but all have an equal opportunity. Everyone is given a broad
+      foundation of general information. The mind and hand are both trained and
+      prepared to do good work, and then the choice of occupation is made and
+      the special education begins. But one who has chosen some kind of manual
+      labor as his vocation very often takes up literary or other professional
+      work in addition, and everybody has some kind of study on hand, by which
+      the mind is kept employed. There is no uneducated class among us.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Before you reached such nobility of character,&rdquo; said the doctor, &ldquo;that
+      panacea for so many ills, I suppose you had troubles enough. You have
+      already intimated as much to us. I wonder if it would not help us to
+      appreciate better your present condition if you should tell us briefly of
+      your experiences in solving so happily some of the problems of your
+      career. I am thinking now more especially of the difficulties of your
+      social and industrial reformation.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I will attempt something of the kind,&rdquo; Thorwald replied, &ldquo;if you are sure
+      I shall not weary you. Remember to prompt me if I do not follow the lines
+      of most interest to you.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;If you should prefer to read you would find the facts you want fully set
+      forth in our histories. The records are especially full and exhaustive on
+      the subjects you have mentioned, for the important changes, or, at least,
+      the changes whose story will be most instructive to you, came in a time of
+      great intellectual activity. Of the earlier days the history is
+      unfortunately less complete, and still further back the records become
+      uncertain and many are merely legendary.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Let us begin at a time when civilization was confined to a small portion
+      of the surface of our planet. Society was then crude and unformed. It was
+      a rude, selfish age. But the germ of better things was there, for the
+      gospel of Christ had been planted in the world and was sure to spring into
+      life when its time should come. But meanwhile our evil nature was strong
+      and choked the good seed, and made advancement slow and uncertain. Power
+      was divided among many rulers who were despots, whose principal occupation
+      was war. The people were valued merely for their fighting qualities and
+      enjoyed only such rights and privileges as their cruel masters allowed
+      them. Being slaves themselves, they held in a still more bitter slavery
+      every prisoner captured in war.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Life was mere animal existence for most of the race, without enjoyment
+      for the present or hope for the future. Education being denied them, there
+      was no mental stimulus to compensate for physical wretchedness, and even
+      their meager religious privileges were accompanied with so many
+      superstitious and unnatural rites that life was relieved of but a little
+      of its burden.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Gradually power was concentrated in the hands of a few autocrats, nations
+      were consolidated, and war began to be a science. Then some attention was
+      paid to the comfort of the people for the purpose of making them better
+      soldiers. Soon it was found that intelligence was the best weapon a man
+      could carry, and so education, in a very stinted form, was encouraged.
+      This was a fatal blunder on the part of the rulers, for as soon as the
+      mind was unfettered the shackles began to fall from the body, and the days
+      of absolutism were numbered. The spirit of knowledge, once released from
+      its imprisonment, became a dominant power in the world, and as time went
+      on the people demanded a voice in the management of affairs. In this way
+      came constitutional government, which for a long time held sway, and under
+      which there came immense benefits to all. Religion and learning
+      flourished, science and art blessed the race with their bounties, and the
+      world began to be a brighter and better place to live in, comparing the
+      times with the ages of ignorance and cruelty that went before.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;And now the stream of liberty broadened, and before long became a flood
+      that swept away thrones and scepters. Personal government ceased, and the
+      people became their own political masters. The right of suffrage was
+      extended and slavery was abolished, while commerce and the spirit of
+      adventure carried civilization to many parts of the world. Then appeared a
+      swarm of mechanical inventions to lighten the labor of mankind,
+      electricity came with its strong arm and great promise, and easier and
+      swifter transportation by land and sea brought the nations and peoples
+      together to the mutual advantage of all.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Education, once the possession of the rich and powerful only, now shed
+      its benign influence over the whole people. Whereas, in the early times,
+      learning had caused the downfall of despotic power, it was now considered
+      a principal safeguard of good government, and made compulsory. Wealth was
+      accumulated, luxuries multiplied, and great strides were taken in the
+      material welfare of both nations and individuals. It was an age of intense
+      activity. So rapidly did events follow each other, and such possibilities
+      were anticipated, that enthusiasts, whose heads were turned in the mad
+      whirl, prophesied the immediate opening of the millennium.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Judged by all the race had previously known of freedom, of prosperity,
+      and of happiness, it was a grand age, and that generation might well be
+      proud of their timely birth. But, looked at from our present standpoint,
+      we can see it was still a day of sadness and sin. We understand, what it
+      was more difficult for them to realize, that the revival of pure religion,
+      awakening the conscience of mankind, had brought about all that was good
+      in their condition, while many evil tendencies had only been exaggerated
+      by their material prosperity. So it was still a very imperfect world.
+      Political freedom they had, but there was no emancipation from the
+      powerful thraldom of selfishness. That spirit held universal sway,
+      governing not only individual action but also the policy of nations.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;One of the highest sentiments known to the times, and some writers placed
+      it even above religion, was love of country. Impassioned oratory was fond
+      of declaring that loyalty to one&rsquo;s native land was the loftiest emotion
+      the heart could feel, and no voice was found to rebuke the utterance.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      I was a little shocked to hear Thorwald, in his earnest manner, give
+      expression to these words, as though he looked upon such views in a very
+      serious light. I was therefore bold enough to interrupt him with:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Excuse me, Thorwald, but would not these orators, when their attention
+      was called to their extreme language, acknowledge that love to God was a
+      still higher sentiment?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Perhaps they would, for with all the selfishness of the period there was
+      a deep-seated belief in a divine being. But even so, I still would not
+      allow them to be right.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Why,&rdquo; I asked, &ldquo;is there more than one motive higher than patriotism?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Yes, love is higher,&rdquo; answered Thorwald. &ldquo;Let me explain. What did love
+      of country mean? At first one&rsquo;s country was a single family, then a tribe,
+      and later a city, when the measure of one&rsquo;s patriotism was the measure
+      also of his hatred for everything foreign. In time a state was formed from
+      many cities and towns, and its citizens were taught to look on all other
+      states as enemies. Then these states that had been fighting each other
+      consolidated into a nation, made up, perhaps, of different races and
+      languages. By this time patriotism became a lofty theme, but it was the
+      same spirit essentially as that which prompts the members of two savage
+      tribes to fight to the death through a blind and unreasoning devotion to
+      their leaders. So do you not think that love to all, which can only come
+      from a generous heart, is more to be praised than love to a part, which
+      necessitates enmity to all the rest? I should think it would have puzzled
+      the people of that age sometimes to tell of what their country really
+      consisted. Was their highest allegiance due to their city, or their
+      county, or their state, or their nation?
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;To what did this immoderate love of country lead? To a passion for
+      aggrandizement at the expense of others, and what was this but selfishness
+      with a gloss so bright as to make it look like a virtue? It led to the
+      strangling of conscience in national affairs, so as to make wrong seem
+      right, and, more than that, to persistence in a course when it was well
+      known to be wrong. It taught false ideas of honor and made the world one
+      grand dueling field, where the energy of nations was spent in watching for
+      insults from their neighbors, and where the quick blow followed every real
+      or fancied offense.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Do not imagine, by what I have said, that I would have advised these
+      people to love their country less. On the contrary, I should tell them to
+      love it so much that they could not see it do wrong; to love it so much
+      that they should have no room in their hearts for bitterness toward
+      others; so much that they should strive to have it lead the world in a
+      march toward universal brotherhood. Love for one&rsquo;s neighbor should not
+      stop at state or national boundaries. Love should know neither caste nor
+      country, but should take in the world, and, I might add for your benefit,
+      other worlds if necessary. Love is a condition of the heart, something
+      within, not without, the man, and when fully developed reaches out to
+      everything that God has made.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;It seems to me, Thorwald,&rdquo; I ventured to say, &ldquo;that these sentiments,
+      which I can see are admirable, belong to your present high development,
+      while we of the earth have reached only about the condition of the people
+      whose traits you have been describing.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Then,&rdquo; resumed Thorwald, &ldquo;you can perhaps understand another evil of
+      those times. It did not grow directly out of love for country, but that
+      too much lauded sentiment prevented the people from seeing its full
+      enormity. This was the practice of attempting by law to protect the
+      inhabitants of one country by shutting out the goods of all others. This
+      prohibition included both the manufactured articles and natural products,
+      and the means adopted was the placing of a high duty on imports. If the
+      political leaders of a people could succeed in convincing them that such a
+      course would raise wages, increase the opportunities for accumulating
+      money, and make them in general more prosperous, then it was forthwith
+      adopted, entirely without regard to the effect it might have on the rest
+      of the world. It is not at all plain to be seen, from reading the history
+      of those times, that the happiest results always followed the passage of
+      these laws, but the experiment was tried whenever a majority felt that
+      there was a fair expectation of such benefits. The only question
+      considered was whether it would be good policy for their particular
+      country. And if one result of this selfish legislation was the closing of
+      mills and the loss of employment to thousands of workmen in some other
+      part of the world, these facts were paraded in the public prints as though
+      they were matter for rejoicing. Men were yet to learn that the maxim which
+      the politicians were fond of quoting, &lsquo;the greatest good to the greatest
+      number,&rsquo; should have a world-wide application to give it any meaning at
+      all.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      While my prejudices were receiving another shock, I knew the doctor was
+      really enjoying this part of Thorwald&rsquo;s talk. So, in order to draw him
+      out, I said to him, as Thorwald paused:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Doctor, I think our friend must belong to your party.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I should rather belong to his party,&rdquo; replied the doctor.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Thank you,&rdquo; said Thorwald. &ldquo;That is a compliment which I appreciate; and
+      now I think I have talked long enough for one sitting. Let us get some
+      lunch, and then go out for a good walk.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      Thorwald must have seen that the doctor&rsquo;s mood was softening, but he
+      probably thought it wise not to speak more directly to him at present.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <hr />
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2HCH0027" id="link2HCH0027"> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      CHAPTER XXVII. THE CHILDREN&rsquo;S DAY.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      As it was a holiday, the children accompanied us on our walk, and we had
+      further opportunity of observing the easy, natural relations which existed
+      between them and their parents. There was neither undue familiarity nor
+      too much restraint. There was respect as well as affection on both sides,
+      and a scrupulous concern for each other&rsquo;s feelings. Evidently the children
+      had all the rights they could appropriate to their advantage, while there
+      was no abrogation of the privileges or the duties of the parents.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      At a convenient time during the afternoon I spoke to Zenith about this
+      happy condition of family affairs, and I was greatly enlightened and not a
+      little amused by her reply.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;It was not always so,&rdquo; she said. &ldquo;One of the sad chapters of our history
+      tells us of an unfortunate episode in the family life. In the early days
+      the father had complete control over his household, even the lives of its
+      members being at his disposal. But as civilization advanced the law
+      stepped in and protected the dependent ones from too harsh punishment and
+      from neglect. In time sympathy for the weak and unprotected made all
+      corporal punishment unpopular, both at home and at school, and soon
+      discipline of every kind was much weakened. There appeared to be a growing
+      impression on the part of the elders that there could not be any evil in
+      the child&rsquo;s nature, and so if he were allowed to grow up without any
+      particular training he would not go far out of the way. It seemed to be
+      overlooked that this was something new in the history of the race, that
+      the experiment had never been tried of giving the youth their own way,
+      from the cradle up. It had been taught from very early times that the
+      child, for its own future welfare, should receive correction, and the
+      teaching had never before been departed from. The parents might just as
+      well have put the reins of family government in the hands of the children
+      at once, for this is what it came to in the end. The children, released
+      from all restraint, lost first their respect for their elders, and then
+      all regard for their feelings. Instead of love there grew up a careless
+      indifference, and in place of that tender thoughtfulness so necessary to
+      happiness in this relation, parents began to receive harsh and even cruel
+      treatment. As we look back upon it now, it seems strange that the result
+      was not anticipated, and the trend of events changed by a decided stand
+      against such an unnatural course. But the approach to a crisis was
+      insidious and, as I have said, history furnished no parallel from which to
+      draw a warning.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Two things made it the worst time in the world for parents to become lax
+      in their discipline. One was the growing sentiment in favor of
+      independence which was permeating all classes of society, and the other
+      the great revival of learning among the people. Given a large class of
+      persons highly educated and taught to prize personal liberty above
+      everything else, and still without the discretion that comes only with
+      years, and what could be expected of them when left with no strong hand to
+      guide them? The methods of education improved so rapidly, and there were
+      such constantly increasing opportunities for obtaining knowledge, that
+      there was some excuse for the children in getting the idea that they knew
+      more than their fathers and mothers. This belief would not under any
+      circumstances improve their manners, and at this time it only caused them
+      to despise still more those who seemed willing to withdraw all claim to
+      authority over them. Precocity, which had never been a popular trait, came
+      to the front with no modesty to relieve its disagreeable character.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But the conduct of the youth of both sexes was not confined to the
+      exhibition of bad manners, nor to the mere passive indulgence of an
+      undutiful spirit. These led gradually to a more serious phase of the
+      rebellion, the inauguration of a series of petty annoyances, to be
+      followed, naturally, by acts of downright injustice and cruelty. It seemed
+      as if the old years of oppression to which, in a ruder age, the children
+      had been subjected, were about to be repeated, with the parents for the
+      victims. You must not suppose that these vast changes came about in the
+      course of one generation. Just as a sentiment in favor of liberty will be
+      perpetuated in a people from one generation to another, and increase with
+      the lapse of years, so this feeling of independence of parental control
+      and this decadence of natural affection were transmitted from one set of
+      children to the next, and matters grew from bad to worse.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;At length the behavior of the young people became so notoriously bad that
+      the matter had to be taken out of the heretofore sacred precincts of home
+      and treated in a public manner. The press tried to work a reformation by
+      ridicule and threats, and when this was seen to have no effect the
+      legislatures took up the subject, and actually passed laws &lsquo;for the relief
+      and protection of oppressed parents,&rsquo; and &lsquo;for the reestablishment of
+      rightful authority in the home.&rsquo; These bold measures so angered the
+      children that they declared they would not submit to such insults, but
+      would take the matter of making laws, as well as all other branches of
+      public business, into their own hands. They started their own organs,
+      which made such silly declarations as this: &lsquo;We are young, but in all
+      other respects we are superior to our elders. We have more intelligence,
+      more spirit and courage, we outnumber them two to one, and, what is better
+      than all the rest, we hold them already in our power. So why should we not
+      use that power, and go forward and destroy every vestige of their
+      authority? Let them work and earn our support, and we will do the rest.&rsquo;&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;And now,&rdquo; asked Zenith, &ldquo;how do you think the affair came out?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I confess,&rdquo; I answered, &ldquo;that I shall have to give it up.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Well,&rdquo; she continued, &ldquo;the problem was solved, as so many others in our
+      career have been, when the needed lesson had been learned, without our
+      being subjected to the extremely dire results which seemed so imminent;
+      and I am happy to be able to tell you that relief came through the efforts
+      of one of my own sex. Just before the last ounce was added to the weight
+      of foolishness and error which was to turn the world completely over, a
+      girl made her appearance with sense enough to call a halt. She happened to
+      be editing one of the fiery journals of her class, when it struck her one
+      day that they were carrying the thing too far. She had the courage to say
+      so, and got roundly abused for it. She persisted, obtained adherents and
+      helpers, and soon a decided reaction set in. Like a house of cards, which
+      a breath will destroy, the unstable structure the children had built fell
+      to the ground, never to be restored.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;The lesson was not forgotten, and the experience, which appears laughable
+      now, has been of great benefit to us at different times since. But the
+      broadening of our minds and the general improvement in our character have
+      long ago placed us beyond the danger of a recurrence of such events.
+      Compared to our present state those were the days of our infancy.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      As Zenith closed I told her I had enjoyed her story, and that I hoped the
+      earth would not require such a lesson.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I trust not,&rdquo; said Zenith.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <hr />
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2HCH0028" id="link2HCH0028"> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      CHAPTER XXVIII. BUSINESS ETHICS.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      The next day the doctor and I took the first opportunity to tell Thorwald
+      that we were anxious to have him proceed with his narrative.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Yes,&rdquo; he said, &ldquo;I shall be glad to do so, for I had not reached the
+      important part when our sitting broke up yesterday.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I was describing to you a remarkable era in our career, and one of you
+      mentioned the fact that the present condition of your race corresponded in
+      some particulars with that age on Mars. If you shall discover further
+      points of likeness as I continue, it will add a peculiar interest to my
+      story.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;There is a difference of opinion among our historians in regard to those
+      times. Some believe that the whole world was corrupt, that it was an age
+      of material development only, and that, if there were any good impulses at
+      all, they were so smothered with selfishness as to be of no account. But
+      these writers lived long ago, and were themselves more or less under the
+      shadow of that epoch. I strongly hold to the views of the great majority
+      of our scholars, who tell us that, while there was too much evil of all
+      kinds, there was also much good, and many believers in a final happy issue
+      out of all the troubles of the time.
+    </p>
+<pre xml:space="preserve">
+&ldquo;In a society so entirely given up to the pursuit of wealth and worldly
+advantage of every sort, those who were trying to hold up the standard
+of righteousness and to alleviate the lot of their fellow beings should
+be remembered with gratitude. Among the multitude of inventions were
+many that were calculated to relieve the laborer of his severest tasks,
+to mitigate suffering, to ward off disease, and to lighten the load of
+mankind in various ways. Large sums of money were given for hospitals,
+charitable institutions, and colleges, and for other kinds of
+philanthropic work, while private benevolences were not uncommon. There
+was prosperity, too, of a certain kind, and some people were happy, or
+thought themselves so. In the records of that as of every period of our
+history, it is possible to find rays of light if we search for them, and
+I tell you these things in order that you may get a fair understanding
+of the situation, for in what follows you will see something of the
+other side.
+
+ &ldquo;I think I shall not err if I say that the gigantic evil of the times,
+that from which others sprang, was the inordinate love of money. Even
+political power, by which the opportunity was obtained of doing public
+service, was too often sought merely for the better chance one had of
+making money, as the saying was. In the revolt against aristocratic
+government, the tendency in our race of going from one extreme to the
+other was again shown, and universal suffrage was adopted. This would
+have been wise if intelligence and honesty had also been universal. But
+the result proved it to be an exceedingly bad policy, for it created
+a large class of voters who held the high privilege of citizenship so
+meanly, and were themselves so venal, that they would even sell their
+votes to the highest bidder. This, supplemented by the immorality of
+some of the intelligent citizens, made politics corrupt and the name of
+politician too often a by-word.
+</pre>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;In doing business, by which was meant buying and selling and
+      manufacturing, also financial dealings and commerce, the passion for
+      money-getting was particularly prominent. An astonishingly small
+      percentage of those that went into business, as they said, made a success,
+      if we except the large manufacturers, but in spite of that it was a
+      popular way of earning a livelihood. One thing that made it popular was
+      the fact that there was always more or less speculation in it. The haste
+      to get rich made men too careless of the rights of others.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Do you mean that all business was conducted dishonestly?&rdquo; I asked.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;No,&rdquo; answered Thorwald, &ldquo;not as men looked at it then. There was a great
+      deal of downright knavery in business, but there was another class who
+      satisfied their consciences by being as honest as they could. The
+      thoughtful ones knew the system was wrong but felt themselves utterly
+      unable to replace it by a better one, and feeling no responsibility for
+      it, they were satisfied to smother their sensibilities and drift along.
+      They had their living to make, and, though they were not making it in an
+      ideal way, they did not know that any other kind of work would be more
+      satisfactory to their uneasy consciences.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Excuse me, Thorwald,&rdquo; I said; &ldquo;I am dull. What was there wrong in their
+      manner of doing business?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Can you see nothing wrong,&rdquo; he answered, &ldquo;in a system where one man&rsquo;s
+      fortune was built on the ruins of another&rsquo;s, or perhaps a score of others,
+      or where a business was started and increased solely by drawing from
+      another one already established?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Why,&rdquo; said I, &ldquo;that is competition, which they no doubt thought better
+      than monopoly. I can imagine that they argued that a man&rsquo;s first duty was
+      to himself and his family, that one had a right to go into any legitimate
+      business, and that others must take care of themselves. The evil, if there
+      was any, they probably felt was incident to the nature of business and
+      could not be helped. I would like to ask how society could exist with any
+      other business rules.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      As I closed it struck me that I had spoken pretty fast and without much
+      discretion, and the impression was not removed as Thorwald answered with
+      dignity:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I am telling you the state of things on this planet thousands of years
+      ago, and it is a sufficient answer to your question to say that society at
+      the present day is not governed on any such principles; still, we seem to
+      exist. It was a favorite saying in those days that &lsquo;a man must live,&rsquo; and
+      one that was used as an argument or excuse for questionable practices. The
+      premise was wrong; it was not necessary to live: death would have been far
+      better for the world and for the individual than a dishonorable life. So
+      with society at large; better a change in the social structure, caused by
+      an awakened conscience, than a state of peace founded on wrong principles.
+      Our history proves that no particular plan of society is necessary to the
+      world and that no order based on selfishness or injustice can long endure.
+      But do not imagine such changes were easy or swift in accomplishment. They
+      came, not by violence nor by the device of crafty men, but only through
+      the universal betterment of the race, whereby a state of things that had
+      been considered good enough, and then endured as the best attainable,
+      became at last positively wrong and was slowly pushed aside by a growing
+      sense of right.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;To return to your first question, as to what there was wrong in their way
+      of doing business, I want to say with emphasis that the essence of the
+      wrong was in an undue regard for self and an almost total disregard for
+      the interests of others. There were exceptions to the rule, notably in the
+      direction of charity and philanthropy and in religious work, but I am
+      speaking of the mass of the business community. It was every man singly
+      against all the rest of the world. No man was his brother&rsquo;s keeper. If one
+      did not look out for himself, that was the end of it; there was no one
+      else to do it.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But the system itself made men selfish,&rdquo; I ventured to say.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;To be sure it did,&rdquo; he replied. &ldquo;But why did they not then abolish the
+      system before it had brought upon them its long train of evils? It had to
+      go at last.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But,&rdquo; I asked again, &ldquo;was not competition a good thing for the large
+      number of people not directly engaged in business? Did it not keep down
+      the prices on all kinds of commodities?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Certainly not in the main. It increased prices, because it increased the
+      cost of everything. But let us suppose a case where it had the effect you
+      suggest. Could a man with a heart wear a coat, for example, with any
+      pleasure, if he knew that rivalry between the manufacturers had forced the
+      people who made the garment to accept starvation wages? And this was done,
+      not from humanitarian motives, to furnish the poor with cheap clothing,
+      but for the purpose of getting more business and so of making more money.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      I could hardly resist the temptation at this point of asking Thorwald if
+      he had not been reading up on the current history of the earth, but I knew
+      well enough that was not possible, for we had brought no books with us.
+      And then I did not care to tell Thorwald just yet how near he was coming
+      to our experience. But I could not endure having the props knocked from
+      under our social structure without another effort to save it. So I said:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But were not the great majority of business men honest, and were not
+      these instances that you have cited extreme cases?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;They were the natural results of a bad system. A great many men were as
+      honest as their environment would permit, and they tried to convince
+      themselves that they were not responsible for the environment.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Were they?&rdquo; I asked eagerly.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;When they at last discovered that they were, then began a radical change.
+      I am not exaggerating the evils of the times. I am merely setting them
+      forth to show you how our race has improved with its maturity. If my
+      purpose required it, I could detail many good things in the life of that
+      people. One bright point in their character, to which I just now referred,
+      I will illustrate. My boy, who is also my student in drawing, will never
+      be able to make a straight line until he can see that the line he has
+      already made is not straight. His improvement depends upon more than a
+      steady hand. So with this people. Deep down in their being, planted by a
+      divine hand, were the instinct of truth and the principle of growth, and
+      when, in the natural course of their development, they came to realize how
+      unworthy they were of their better nature, they set about the work of
+      improvement.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But they came to that knowledge through many sad experiences. I have not
+      begun to tell you the number and extent of the evils they endured.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;The desire for money affected all classes. The general prosperity had
+      bettered the condition of the wage-earners, creating many artificial wants
+      which could not be satisfied without good pay. Hence arose a natural and
+      constant effort to obtain higher wages, while competition among the
+      employers operated just as constantly to keep them down, and the result
+      was a sharp and increasing antagonism between capital and labor. The
+      general public shared in the blame for this state of things by reason of
+      the almost universal demand for cheap goods.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;While the introduction of machinery was a real advance, whose benefits we
+      are reaping to this day, other conditions had not become adjusted to it at
+      the time of which we are speaking, so that there was often a surplus of
+      workmen, especially in the lower grades of labor. This had a tendency to
+      reduce wages, of course; and the want of employment, improvidence in the
+      use of small wages, intemperance and other immoralities, ignorance and
+      misfortune, all combined to keep part of the people in poverty. On the
+      other hand, it was a time of great wealth and luxurious living, and these
+      two classes, so far apart in their manner of life but often so near each
+      other in all their selfish aims, seemed to have a strong mutual
+      attraction, for they were always found together, crowding upon each other
+      in every large city.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;One of the most difficult things for us of the present day to imagine is,
+      how persons of refinement and sensibility, living in comfort and without a
+      care, could take any pleasure in life when they knew that within a stone&rsquo;s
+      throw of their doors were human beings who, very often through no fault of
+      their own, were so destitute that a crust would relieve their want, or so
+      friendless that a kind word would make them shed tears of joy. Oh! I
+      cannot comprehend it, and yet the record tells us there were cases of just
+      that nature, where such people, without lifting a finger to alleviate the
+      distress, actually laughed and were happy. Happy! What could they know of
+      happiness? The word must have changed its meaning wonderfully, if we think
+      of what it signifies to-day.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <hr />
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2HCH0029" id="link2HCH0029"> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      CHAPTER XXIX. THE INDUSTRIAL PROBLEM.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      Thorwald continued as follows:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;The unpleasant relations existing between the employers and the employees
+      created a host of troubles. It was an unreasonable feeling, because the
+      interests of the two classes were identical. But as capital was
+      consolidated and great corporations were formed for extensive operations
+      in transportation and manufacturing, the relation between the two became
+      very impersonal and difficult to control. In order to protect their
+      interests the wage-earners organized into unions, brotherhoods, etc.,
+      almost every trade and calling having its own organization.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;When these associations were first formed much stress was laid upon their
+      incidental benefits, such as assistance in time of sickness, care of the
+      families of deceased members, the holding of meetings for discussion and
+      mutual improvement, and the establishment of reading-rooms and libraries.
+      These commendable objects would have been a sufficient excuse for the
+      existence of these bodies, and other legitimate ends might have been
+      sought, but the labor unions did not stop there. They instituted and set
+      in motion the powerful machinery of the strike, as it was called, making
+      it effective by binding their members, under severe penalties, to stop
+      work when they were ordered to do so by their leaders. They also practiced
+      the severest measures of intimidation upon non-union men, to prevent them
+      from getting employment.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Thus the trades-unions, too often governed by incompetent men, became a
+      mighty power for evil. Strikes and lockouts were common, and were followed
+      by loss of wages and consequent suffering, while the bitterness of feeling
+      between the two classes constantly increased. To meet the rising power of
+      the labor organizations, the employers felt obliged to form combinations
+      among themselves and sometimes also to employ bodies of armed men to
+      protect their property. Then, when a strike came, conflicts would follow
+      so serious that appeal had to be made to the last resort, the military arm
+      of the nation. Here another evil threatened, for the individual soldiers
+      would sometimes prove to be in deep sympathy with the workmen who were
+      making the trouble. At such crises, also, there would appear on the scene
+      the anarchist, who wanted to overthrow society at once in the hope of
+      bringing himself out nearer the top, and who was kept comparatively
+      harmless in quiet times.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;You can imagine something of the disorder and apprehension caused by
+      these troubles. No contract for work could be made without the stipulation
+      that its fulfillment must depend upon freedom from strikes in that
+      particular trade, and no man could start on a journey with any certainty
+      that he would be allowed to finish it in peace and at the appointed time.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;To decide how these evils should be remedied proved to be one of the
+      greatest problems ever presented to the people of that age.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Political sages had long before promulgated the doctrine upon which
+      society was governed, that every man had a natural right to life, liberty,
+      and his own method of pursuing happiness. Now, both sides in the conflict
+      claimed to be following closely the spirit of this fundamental doctrine.
+      The workingmen declared that they had a perfect right to organize and to
+      induce all their number to join the unions. They said the individual
+      relation between them and the employers had had its day and that
+      experience was proving to them that every concession and privilege they
+      hoped to get must come through their associations, working through the
+      medium of an agent or committee. As independent citizens they could not
+      obey laws and regulations in the making of which they had no voice, and
+      their love of personal liberty would not allow them to accept the wages
+      and hours of service which their employers might, without asking their
+      consent, choose to prescribe. In case of disagreement they asserted their
+      right to stop the whole business, at whatever loss to the employers or
+      inconvenience to the public, and to prevent, if possible, new men from
+      taking their places.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;On the other hand, the employers, while not denying to the workmen the
+      right to form associations for legitimate purposes, insisted that this
+      right was being abused. They claimed that they should be allowed to hire
+      whom they pleased and dismiss incompetent men when it was best for their
+      business, without regard to their membership or non-membership in a union.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;As time went on the trouble increased and society was fast forming itself
+      into classes with opposing aims and mutual dislike. The time had been when
+      a workman, by skill and diligence, could rise above his station and become
+      a large proprietor himself. But with the new order this was hardly
+      possible, and civilization, in this respect, seemed to be retrogressing.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;You may wonder why the lawmakers did not correct the evil at once, but
+      the fact was that the legislatures were made up of representatives from
+      the two classes, and so were undecided as to what remedies to apply. It
+      was proposed by some to enact a law preventing a man from selling himself
+      into slavery, or, in other words, from giving up his liberty of action
+      into the keeping of others, a thing which had caused much suffering. In
+      every strike a large part of the men, earning small wages and with
+      families dependent on these wages for their bread from one day to another,
+      would be obliged to quit work against their will. It was thought,
+      therefore, a fit subject of legislation to enjoin them from binding
+      themselves to strike at the dictation of others, when it was against their
+      judgment. It was suggested, also, to make the intimidation or coercion of
+      non-union men a criminal act.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;When these measures were suggested the cry was raised that the workingmen
+      were to be deprived of their liberty and made the slaves of capital. The
+      labor parties in the legislatures were assisted by a class of politicians
+      who were made cowards through fear of losing the workingmen&rsquo;s votes, and
+      this gave these parties the power to defeat all measures of which they
+      disapproved, and to pass laws in their own interest. They claimed that
+      they should be protected as well as the manufacturer, and so they made it
+      lawful for the government to inspect all industries and to see that the
+      employees received an equitable share of the profits. This was radical
+      action, but they went still further, and took away from every employer the
+      right of discharging men for any cause without the consent of the union;
+      and full power to fix the hours of service and the wages was put into the
+      hands of the government inspectors and the representatives of the
+      trades-unions. The wages were to be based on what the inspectors found to
+      be the profits of the business, and the help or advice of the proprietors
+      was not to be taken. As these astonishing rules governed even the farmer
+      and shopkeeper as well as the manufacturer, you can imagine that there was
+      not much satisfaction in trying to carry on any business.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;The laboring classes were beginning to discover that they were a large
+      majority of the community and that there was a mighty power in the ballot.
+      Their opponents, on the other hand, having lost the control in politics
+      through universal suffrage, now bent their energies still more to the work
+      of combining large interests under one management, hoping to wield in this
+      way a power too formidable to be withstood. Immense trusts were formed in
+      almost every branch of business, and the syndicate gradually took the
+      place of the firm and individual corporation.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;A long time previous to the period of which we are speaking, the people
+      had put part of their business into the hands of the government, with the
+      idea that it would be done with more promptness and also with more
+      economy. A good example of this was seen in the excellent mail service,
+      which the national government conducted much more satisfactorily than it
+      could have been done by private enterprise.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;The local governments, also, had full control of the highways and bridges
+      and the common schools, hospitals, etc., while in large communities, at
+      great expense, they stored and distributed water for domestic and other
+      purposes. As the people had received undoubted benefits from this state of
+      things, there were few to object to it, and even their objection was more
+      for theoretical than practical reasons. It is not strange, therefore, that
+      as the troublous times approached these functions of the state should be
+      multiplied. Besides the gain in convenience and in cost that thus came to
+      the people, they began to rely on the strong arm of the government for
+      protection from the uncertainties and interruptions incident to private
+      control of many kinds of business.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;As the telegraph and telephone came into more general use the government
+      found it necessary to add their facilities to the mail service, in order
+      to give the people the best means of communication. From this point the
+      step was soon taken of assuming control of all the telegraph and telephone
+      lines, in the interest of lower prices and better service. This was
+      attended with such good results that it was thought wise to extend the
+      conveniences of the mail in another direction; and instead of carrying a
+      few small parcels the government took into its hands the entire express
+      business, and it was not long before everybody conceded it to be a good
+      move.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;At the same time, the municipal governments began to exhibit the same
+      paternal character. They first took control of the lighting and heating
+      facilities, and this led in a short time to their furnishing the people
+      with fuel, which was generally brought from a distance, and which, in
+      private hands, always had a way of going up in price at just the time when
+      the poor people were obliged to buy it. For the sake of economy, also, the
+      cities took possession of all street cars, cabs, and omnibuses.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Affairs had reached this condition when the labor troubles became so
+      serious, and this absorption of private business by the government was so
+      recent and was in general so satisfactory, that men could but think of it
+      in connection with their efforts to solve the industrial problems. The
+      time had now come when some radical measures must be adopted to preserve
+      and extend civilization. The labor party were abusing their power still
+      more in making bad laws, and strikes became more frequent, and were
+      followed by rioting and bloodshed. At length the interruptions to business
+      occasioned by the irregularities in traveling became unbearable. The
+      public demanded better service, but the railroad companies were powerless
+      to render it, being in the hands of the employees, who at the slightest
+      grievance would stop every wheel till the dispute was settled. The trouble
+      generally started with one road and spread to the others by sympathy, and
+      the result was just as disastrous to business whether the men gained their
+      end or not.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;There had always been a party, although at times pretty feeble, in favor
+      of government control of the entire transportation business. This party
+      now argued that that was the only thing that would cure these evils, and
+      they gained thereby many new adherents. When it was considered that
+      government ownership of the telegraph was working well in spite of many
+      adverse prophecies, the people began to entertain the idea that it would
+      perhaps be best to try the experiment with the railroads, especially as it
+      gave some promise of relief from the strikes. To be sure, it would add to
+      the government service immense numbers of men, and increase a danger that
+      had always been threatening, that of making too large a list of civil
+      officers to be managed without great corruption.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But now it was not long before a large majority of the people asked to
+      have the trial made, and soon all railroads, canals, and steamboats were
+      in the hands of the general government. The employees were formed into an
+      army, with officers of all grades, and put under strict military
+      discipline. At the least show of insubordination a man was discharged,
+      never to be reemployed, and although this caused some hardship in
+      individual cases at first, it put an effectual stop to the strikes and
+      kept business moving. The best of the workmen had been among the strongest
+      advocates of national ownership, and as the movement gained in favor no
+      class were so satisfied with the change as the employees themselves. Work
+      was steady, wages were regular, faithfulness and length of service were
+      rewarded, and the aged and feeble were retired on pensions.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;In this way peace had come in one department of labor, but war still
+      raged among the manufacturers and in the building and other trades. The
+      workingmen literally held the reins in society, but did not know enough to
+      drive away from the rocks. Instead of taking advantage of shorter hours
+      and higher wages to improve their minds and prepare themselves for a
+      better condition, they were too apt to waste their energies in denouncing
+      the capitalists and in trying to force still greater concessions from
+      their unwilling employers. They would loudly demand that every ancient
+      wrong endured by them should be redressed, and then, to show their idea of
+      right, they would compel a builder, in the middle of a contract, where
+      time was more precious than money, to give them higher wages than had been
+      agreed on; or they would boycott to bankruptcy a small shopkeeper who
+      innocently bought goods that happened to be made by non-union workmen.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But do not imagine that the wrong was all on one side. There were
+      employers who were unjust and cruel when they had the power, unreasonable
+      in argument, and boorish and exasperating in their manners. Many seemed to
+      think they were a different class of beings because they had more money
+      than their workmen, and they resented the idea of the latter rising above
+      the station in which they were born. They raised wages only when forced to
+      do so, and considered any amount of profit made out of their men perfectly
+      legitimate. When want came they would give in charity to the unfortunate
+      ones that which really belonged to them by right. These disagreeable
+      qualities were not possessed alone by such as were employers. There was a
+      class of rich people not engaged in business, and although they had the
+      greatest interest in the perpetuity of society as it was, many of them
+      considered themselves as members of a superior caste, and looked down with
+      disdain upon the majority of mankind, and the real masters of the
+      situation, who had to work for their daily bread.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;It was against this class especially that anarchy was forging its
+      thunderbolt. The freedom of the press and freedom of speech gave the
+      socialist and anarchist the opportunity to promulgate their seditious
+      doctrines, and they looked to the ignorant and depraved portions of the
+      community for adherents. By the successful risings of the people against
+      despotic power the word &lsquo;revolution&rsquo; had gained a certain nobility of
+      sound and meaning, and now these incendiaries employed it to mislead the
+      credulous. They promised an overturning by which all property and money
+      should become a common fund and be redistributed on a more equitable
+      basis, and it is perhaps not to be wondered at that some poor, ignorant
+      ones, seeing the vast inequalities in life, should be carried away with
+      their arguments. The vision of a society where all should share alike and
+      live on the same scale of comfort was intoxicating. But the scheme of the
+      anarchist was not based on love and a desire to promote true brotherhood.
+      Judging from the violent means proposed to bring about the change, it
+      seemed rather to be based on hate. In preaching their doctrine of personal
+      license they were stealing the livery of freedom in which to serve their
+      selfish lusts.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;While the vicious and ignorant thus threatened society on the one hand,
+      the accumulation of enormous wealth by a few fortunate, or unfortunate,
+      men was thought by some to be a menace equally serious. It was argued that
+      this could not go on without making the poor poorer and more numerous, and
+      thus emphasizing and perpetuating the separation of the two classes.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I need not point out to you a fact that you must realize, namely, that
+      the spring of action with too many men, the one cause of the troubles that
+      really threatened the foundations of society, was selfishness. Can you
+      imagine any danger from all these movements if men could have suddenly
+      become unselfish, really unselfish?
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I hope I have not given you the idea that all the world of people had
+      lost their heads. As in the history of nations of that period war seems to
+      have been the principal occupation, so in the social life of the people
+      the evils and dangers are most prominently seen. But all this time there
+      was a large party of men and women who were alive to the perils of the
+      hour, and intent on seeking the best means to overcome them. This party
+      was made up of many representatives of every class, rich and poor,
+      workingmen and employers, and included the great mass of the intelligent
+      and thoughtful members of society.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;The general and local governments were carrying on, with marked success
+      and without friction, certain kinds of business, while in many other
+      departments there were disorder and possible ruin. Time brought no healing
+      power; the troubles increased and were now truly gigantic. Where should
+      help be found?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      As Thorwald paused here, the doctor, who, I thought, had been wanting to
+      speak for some time, took occasion to say:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Don&rsquo;t tell us, Thorwald, that this people turned over all their business,
+      both industrial and professional, to the government, and made machines of
+      themselves. I am becoming exceedingly interested in them and hope they
+      found some better release from their woes. I am sure there are a number of
+      methods of relief which they might have tried.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I am glad you have spoken, Doctor,&rdquo; answered Thorwald, &ldquo;or I might have
+      talked you to death. We must really break off now and get out of doors.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      Mona listened to different portions of the foregoing conversation. It was
+      dull amusement for her, as we could see by her actions, and we wondered at
+      first why she showed so little interest in it. She did not seem to realize
+      the full significance of her unique position in our circle. As the last
+      representative of the race of moon men, she had now the opportunity of
+      learning something of the history of two sister worlds, and one would
+      suppose that she would have been eager to hear every word we said. She had
+      expressed herself more than once as anxious to know all any of us could
+      tell her, nor did she hesitate to ask questions continually&mdash;and
+      intelligent questions, too. But she was sympathetic only in certain
+      directions, having a laudable curiosity to hear about any of the pleasant
+      phases of society, either on the earth or on Mars. But when Thorwald
+      talked of the former troubles experienced by his race, or when we compared
+      these with the miseries of our own times on the earth, Mona became an
+      indifferent listener.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      She was sitting with us when Thorwald proposed the out-door exercise, and
+      so we all went out together. As we walked, Thorwald said:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Mona, I fear you have not been enjoying my tedious talk this morning. You
+      would be better pleased, I am sure, with some other topic.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      In her sweet accents, so charming to every ear, Mona responded:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I hope my lack of attention did not give you offense, Thorwald, but I do
+      not understand the things you have talked about to-day.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Not understand? Why, I know from former conversations with you that such
+      things are not beyond your comprehension.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Thank you,&rdquo; said Mona, &ldquo;but I think they are, for I never before heard
+      anything like the ideas you have advanced.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;We shall all be glad to learn, then, how these questions were answered
+      and these wrongs righted by your ancestors.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;They never had any such perplexities,&rdquo; responded Mona.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Which means, I presume,&rdquo; said Thorwald, &ldquo;that the race became so far
+      advanced before your time that the records and traditions of their early
+      struggles were all forgotten.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Oh, no,&rdquo; she sang out, &ldquo;that&rsquo;s not it. What had they to struggle over?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Was it then so easy for them to be just?&rdquo; asked Thorwald.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Certainly, and I have been exceedingly surprised to learn by your long
+      talk that there is such a thing as injustice.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      We were all becoming thoroughly interested, but left it for Thorwald to
+      continue his questions.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Mona,&rdquo; said he, &ldquo;do you mean that your people, even in the remote past,
+      were entirely ignorant of such troubles as we have been speaking about?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Yes, and of all other troubles. I am sure there was always only peace and
+      happiness on the moon. Strife and hatred, sorrow, want, and misery are all
+      strange words to me, and entirely unknown except as I have heard them in
+      your conversation.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Was there never any sickness there?&rdquo; I asked.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I don&rsquo;t know the meaning of the word,&rdquo; she replied. &ldquo;Is it another item
+      in the general unpleasantness of the times you have been describing? I
+      wonder that your race, Thorwald, ever survived those rude days.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But,&rdquo; asked Thorwald, &ldquo;what think you of the earth? The doctor and his
+      companion say their planet is now passing through just such a period.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Well, all I can say is that I am thankful I was not discovered till after
+      the moon had deserted the earth.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Tell us more about your race,&rdquo; said the doctor. &ldquo;Were they all as good as
+      you are?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Just the same. There were no degrees in goodness.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;And did they all sing as they talked, and in such sweet tones as yours?&rdquo;
+       I asked.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Oh, many sang better than I do, and all made music of their words. I
+      never heard speech that was not melodious till you and the doctor came to
+      see me.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;And did everything else in your life there correspond to your charming
+      manner of talking?&rdquo; asked Thorwald.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Why, yes, I think so,&rdquo; answered Mona. &ldquo;It was a delightful world.
+      Everything was bright and joyous, with no shadow of discontent nor
+      anything to cause sadness or discomfort. Do you wonder that I could not
+      sympathize with your story of wrongs and sorrows, the very nature of which
+      was a new revelation to me?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      Mona&rsquo;s notions about the people whom she represented seemed strange and
+      improbable to us, and we attributed them to the influence of her own
+      guileless nature. One so innocent and whole-hearted as she was would
+      naturally clothe her ancestors with at least the virtues and graces she
+      herself possessed. However, we had no means of proving Mona&rsquo;s ideas to be
+      false. We had brought away from the moon no records of any kind by which
+      to study its history, and of that history Mona was as yet our only
+      interpreter. But every word she spoke on this subject only added intensity
+      to the pleasurable anticipation with which these Martians looked forward
+      to their study of the moon and its former inhabitants.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <hr />
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2HCH0030" id="link2HCH0030"> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      CHAPTER XXX. ATTEMPTS TO SOLVE THE PROBLEM.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      It was not till the next day that we sat down together again to continue
+      the conversation. Remembering what the doctor had said, Thorwald began:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;In sketching for you the history of that age of activity and change in
+      our career, I was in such fear of wearying you with dry details that I
+      hurried along and omitted the very things to which you refer, Doctor. This
+      people did try all the experiments that suggested themselves, and if you
+      think your patience will endure it I will speak of a few of them.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      We both assured him that we would gladly listen, and that we considered
+      ourselves fortunate in having such an instructor. He was merely telling us
+      about a certain period in the history of Mars, but if he had known how
+      nearly he had been coming to the course of events on the earth he would
+      not have wondered that we were so eager to hear all he had to say.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Quite early in the labor difficulties,&rdquo; he resumed, &ldquo;state arbitration
+      had its day; a short one, however, for the appointment of the arbitrators
+      soon became a matter of partisan politics, and their influence was gone.
+      Whichever side was in power could appoint a board that would be prejudiced
+      in favor of that side from the start, and when the trouble came the other
+      party would not have confidence enough in their judgment to accept their
+      decision.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Next, laws were passed making arbitration compulsory, but allowing the
+      arbitrators to be chosen at the time of the strike, the employer to name
+      one, the workmen one, and these two to find the third. This did some good
+      as long as only first class men were selected, but a few flagrant cases
+      occurred where the arbitrators, who were allowed to inspect the books of
+      the concern, made public the private affairs of the business, to the great
+      injury of the owners. This brought the law into disfavor, and, as there
+      was no provision for enforcing the decisions, it came to pass that they
+      were often disregarded, and so, before long, this plan of settling
+      disputes was also abandoned.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;For a good many years no other subject so completely filled the public
+      mind as this very troublesome one, and people of all professions were
+      continually suggesting remedies. It was held by many to be a good working
+      theory that the employees in every business, whether industrial,
+      mercantile, or financial, were entitled to some share in the profits over
+      and above their compensation in wages. This was disputed by the large
+      majority of the employers, who claimed that their contract with the
+      workmen was a simple one, by which they agreed to work so many hours for
+      so much pay, and as this was their due even if the business proved a
+      losing one, so they had no just claim to anything more if it were
+      successful the employees had nothing to do or say about the question of
+      profits. On the other hand, where a number of men had, by long and
+      faithful service, a strict regard for the welfare of the business, and
+      loyalty to all of the employer&rsquo;s interests, helped to build up a great
+      industry, an increasing number of people, not only the wage earners but
+      many others not directly interested, felt that the workmen had fairly
+      gained, if not a share in the proprietorship, at least some consideration
+      from the owners. This feeling was especially strong in cases where the
+      laws of the land had materially aided the success of the business, and
+      where the profits were unusually large.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I want to say, in passing, that it is by such indications as the
+      existence of this sentiment that we can see, all through those troublous
+      times, the gradual improvement of the race.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;As some of the employers came to be impressed with the same thought, they
+      began in a quiet way trying the experiment of giving their men a bonus at
+      the end of the year, proportioned to the amount of wages they earned. In
+      some cases this gave place after a time to the plan of making the workmen
+      regular partners, and giving them a certain percentage of the profits in
+      lieu of wages. But when a time of general depression came and the
+      percentage did not amount to as much as their old pay had been, the men
+      felt as though they had been led into a trap, and after they had endured
+      the situation for a time they were glad to return to the former system.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Another scheme that was extensively tried was cooperation among the
+      workingmen, both in manufacturing and mercantile business. The argument,
+      which was a plausible one, was that the expense of big salaries for
+      management, together with the enormous profits, would all be available for
+      dividends. The results showed that in the long run the profits, in all but
+      exceptional cases, were not more than a fair interest on the investment,
+      and as to the salaries, it was found that financial and business ability
+      was scarce and costly, and yet necessary to success. The associations of
+      workingmen were willing to put their money into buildings, machinery, and
+      stock, and the men were ready to work hard themselves, but they were not
+      willing to pay for skill in management, and so their failure was
+      inevitable. At the same time they still held to the opinion, which was at
+      the bottom of these experiments, that under the old system the owners and
+      managers of the business got too much of the profits and the operatives
+      too little. Is there anything else, Doctor, that you think these people
+      might have tried?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I am not satisfied,&rdquo; the doctor answered, &ldquo;with their efforts at
+      profit-sharing. It seems to me that that scheme, under proper management,
+      ought to have brought the two classes together by giving them a common
+      interest in every enterprise, and so to have gradually done away with all
+      bitterness and strife. Employers might have used a part of their surplus
+      profits in building better houses for their men, in giving them
+      instruction as to a nobler way of living, in opening libraries and
+      bath-houses and cooking schools and savings banks, in keeping them insured
+      against sickness and death, and in doing a thousand things to show the men
+      that they were thoughtful of their comfort and welfare. If the workmen
+      could discover by such means that the employers were really their friends,
+      I think it must have disarmed their hatred and antagonism. Then if, with
+      these benefits, they could have received in money a small percentage above
+      their usual wages, they would certainly have repaid such friendliness by a
+      service so faithful and an industry so constant as to more than make up,
+      in increased profits, for all the philanthropic expenditures.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Doctor,&rdquo; said Thorwald, &ldquo;I am pleased to see you take such an interest in
+      this subject. You talk as though you had thought of it before, and you
+      have outlined almost the exact course pursued by the people of whom we are
+      speaking. Hundreds of such experiments were tried and persisted in for a
+      long time, both before the serious labor troubles began and after. Among
+      their strongest advocates were men of theory in the professions, who were
+      actuated by high motives but did not appreciate the practical
+      difficulties. They were pretty sure they could get along with the
+      workingmen without so much friction. But the profit-sharing scheme also
+      had the aid of many excellent men among the employers, as I have said.
+      However, for one reason or another, the experiments all came to naught. In
+      some cases great expense was entered into to provide comforts for the
+      workmen, and after a few prosperous years depression followed and the
+      proprietors found they had undertaken too much. Several large failures,
+      brought about by such lack of judgment, helped to produce disappointment
+      and discouragement. Then it was found by experience that the evil-disposed
+      among the workmen were not to be converted into honest, industrious, and
+      faithful employees in any such wholesale manner. Making men over could not
+      be done in the block. There never had been any difficulty in dealing with
+      the sober, reasonable, well-intentioned men. The trouble had all come from
+      the vicious, the incompetent, and the shiftless ones. And the more
+      privileges this class obtained, the more they demanded. If their working
+      day was made shorter in order to give them the opportunity of taking
+      advantage of the free facilities for improving their minds, they loudly
+      demanded another hour each day and frequent holidays, with the liberty of
+      spending their leisure time as best suited their tastes. If they were
+      given a share of the profits, they complained because it was so small a
+      share, and thought they were being cheated when the proprietors would not
+      let them inspect the books to see if the profits were not larger than
+      represented. Then as partners they claimed the right to be consulted in
+      the management of the business. Such demands brought on disputes, of
+      course; and the natural result was that strikes were not unknown even in
+      these humanitarian establishments. As the labor organizations were then in
+      full blast the better class of men were drawn into the strikes, which
+      sometimes became so serious that the owners were compelled to give up
+      their philanthropic efforts and go back to the old system of giving what
+      they were obliged to and getting what they could in return.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;In general, employers found they had still an unanswered problem on their
+      hands. An undue spirit of independence had been fostered among a class of
+      uneducated, ill-natured, and thick-headed workmen, and society was rocked
+      to its foundation in the effort to keep them within bounds.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Will you let me make another suggestion, Thorwald?&rdquo; asked the doctor.
+      &ldquo;Why did not all classes approach this difficulty in a businesslike way
+      and work together to remove it? Why did not the state see that the right
+      of private contract was a safe and useful one for all sides, and cease to
+      infringe on it by law? Why did not the public teachers make a combined and
+      continued effort to instill a conciliatory spirit into both sides, and to
+      show how peace and brotherly feeling would be a mutual blessing? Why did
+      not the employers&mdash;not one here and there, but all of them&mdash;treat
+      their men as they would like to be treated in their place, make friends
+      with them, talk reason even to unreasonable men, speak kindly to the
+      unfriendly ones, urge the value of sobriety upon the intemperate, teach
+      the incompetent, sympathize with the unfortunate, try to reclaim the
+      vicious instead of turning them off harshly, and in every way strive to
+      prove themselves to the men as beings of the same flesh and blood with
+      them? And why did not the workingmen receive what was done for them with
+      the right spirit&mdash;give up their envious and suspicious feelings,
+      improve every precious chance of getting knowledge, work for their
+      employers as they would for themselves, cease to use the power of the
+      unions unjustly, cultivate amicable relations with everybody, and try in
+      all possible ways to make true men of themselves? If the men had worked
+      along this line they would have found they were bettering themselves in
+      every way faster than they could by strikes and conflicts.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Ah! Doctor,&rdquo; replied Thorwald, &ldquo;you have now the true solution. Such
+      action would have annihilated the difficulties in a day. But to suppose
+      every employer and every workman capable of following such good advice is
+      to suppose that the world had then reached an almost ideal condition. The
+      very existence and character of the troubles show how imperfect men were.
+      It was a common saying then that human nature was the same as it had been
+      in the earliest days and that it would never change while the world should
+      stand. This was a mistaken view, for there had been a great change. The
+      heart had lost much of its selfishness and had begun to grasp in some
+      slight measure a sense of that distant but high destiny to which it had
+      been called.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;If the world,&rdquo; said the doctor, &ldquo;was not good enough for these troubles
+      to be cured by kindness, I am anxious to know how they were healed. I am
+      sure you can tell us, for those people were your remote ancestors and you
+      are far removed from such vexations now.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;That is true,&rdquo; said Thorwald. &ldquo;I can tell you how this social problem was
+      solved, and how our race has found release from the many dangers that have
+      threatened us. It has not been by man&rsquo;s device or invention. But God,
+      whose arm alone has been our defense, has always called men to his aid,
+      and thus, in his own time and way, help has come in every crisis. The most
+      important changes in society have been brought about gradually and without
+      violence, and with that hint I think we had better leave this subject for
+      the present. Some day I want to go over with you briefly the history of
+      the work and influence of the gospel of Jesus in the world, and it will
+      then be fitting to refer again to the period of which we have just now
+      been speaking.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I am sure you will find it a great relief for me to change the subject,
+      or stop talking.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;We will not object to your changing the subject,&rdquo; said I, &ldquo;whenever you
+      think it best, but we shall try to keep you talking till we know a great
+      deal more about Mars than we do now.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <hr />
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2HCH0031" id="link2HCH0031"> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      CHAPTER XXXI. WINE-DRINKING IN MARS.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      I went downstairs the next morning before the doctor was ready, and when I
+      met Thorwald I said, without thought: &ldquo;A fine morning.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Yes,&rdquo; he replied, &ldquo;all our mornings are fine. I do not mean that the sun
+      is always shining or that we do not have clouds and a variety of sky
+      effects, but we know the clouds can be depended on not to give rain till
+      night.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Do you not lose something by having a perpetual calm?&rdquo; I asked. &ldquo;For I
+      understand the rain in the night comes only in gentle showers. In our
+      rough world some of us enjoy the grandeur of the storm.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;How about those who are exposed to its fury?&rdquo; asked Thorwald in reply. &ldquo;I
+      do not see how anyone can really enjoy what is sure to be bringing sorrow
+      or even inconvenience to others. Could a mother take pleasure in a tempest
+      if she knew her son was in danger of shipwreck from it? Why should it
+      change her feeling to know her son was by her side and that it was only
+      strangers that were in danger?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But,&rdquo; continued Thorwald, &ldquo;are you and your friend ready for an excursion
+      to-day? If you are, I propose to give you a new experience.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;We shall be delighted to accompany you, and as I see breakfast is ready I
+      will go up and tell the doctor to hurry.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Oh, I wouldn&rsquo;t do that,&rdquo; exclaimed Thorwald. &ldquo;You must try to learn to
+      live as we do, and you will remember I said the other day that we are
+      never in haste. If, for example, it were Zenith who was late, I should
+      never think of calling to her to hurry, for I should know she must have a
+      good excuse for staying. Her liberty of action is as valuable to her as
+      mine to me, and however long she might keep me waiting, I should feel sure
+      that her action was the result of right motives and correct reasoning. If
+      the doctor does not appear, we can easily postpone our excursion to
+      to-morrow. There would be no lack of occupation for to-day.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;What a delightful feeling it must be,&rdquo; I said, &ldquo;to be always free from
+      hurry. It is the commonest experience in our imperfect state for one to
+      start a few minutes late in the morning, and then be on a constant jump
+      all day to make them up. One of the evils of our driving age is the wear
+      and tear of our nerves in what we consider a necessary haste to get
+      there.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Get where?&rdquo; asked Thorwald.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;To get anywhere or to do anything that we set out to accomplish,&rdquo; I
+      answered.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I fear,&rdquo; said Thorwald, &ldquo;that I have talked too much about Mars and not
+      insisted enough on hearing about the earth. Suppose something should
+      happen to break off your visit?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;You wouldn&rsquo;t miss much, Thorwald.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;We certainly should regret exceedingly not learning many things that you
+      could tell us,&rdquo; he said.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Yes,&rdquo; I answered, &ldquo;but you cannot profit by our experiences, while we of
+      the earth are in a condition where we need all the help and advice you
+      have for us. If we ever return to our home we want to tell all about your
+      advanced civilization and how you have overcome the evils that vex our
+      race. But I wonder why the doctor doesn&rsquo;t come. I think I will go and see,
+      but I promise not to interfere with his liberty of action.&rdquo; I soon
+      returned with my friend, and we all went to breakfast. The doctor said he
+      would not eat much, as he felt somewhat indisposed. Here was something new
+      in the life of this household, and each one began to express sympathy and
+      ask what could be done. The doctor was amused, and I said I thought a
+      good, hearty breakfast would make him all right. But Thorwald insisted
+      that something unusual should be done, although his inexperience was so
+      great that nothing feasible suggested itself at first. Zenith was in favor
+      of all repairing to the library, hunting up the histories of the days when
+      people were ill, and finding out the proper remedy for his ailment. This
+      would have been a logical proceeding, but I thought to myself that they
+      did not understand the value of time in such cases and that the doctor
+      would probably either recover or die while they were at work.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      As I did not appear to be any more alarmed than my companion was, the
+      excitement soon subsided. But Thorwald was not satisfied yet, and after
+      some further thought his face brightened and he asked me if a glass of
+      good wine would not be the thing for the doctor. When I replied that it
+      would probably not hurt him, Thorwald told his son to go and bring up a
+      bottle of the oldest wine in the cellar, and soon not only the patient but
+      the members of the family and myself were all partaking. No more was heard
+      after this of the doctor&rsquo;s indisposition, and Thorwald no doubt
+      felicitated himself that he had effected a cure. The situation was rather
+      suggestive to me, and while we were drinking, and eating our breakfast, I
+      could not refrain from saying:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;If some of our friends on the earth could see us now, Thorwald, we would
+      be discredited in all that we might say about your higher condition. It
+      would do no good to expatiate on your ripe character and on your
+      attainments in knowledge and virtue. I fear they would not believe much of
+      it if they knew that you not only drank wine yourselves, but encouraged
+      its use by giving it to your guests.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Why,&rdquo; said Thorwald, &ldquo;you could tell them the wine was brought out to be
+      used as a medicine, and that the rest of us drank to keep the doctor
+      company. But when you see your friends you had better tell them the truth
+      at once, that while we all take wine here frequently this is the only
+      instance where I have ever known it to be used medicinally.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;They would tell us,&rdquo; said the doctor, &ldquo;that you have made one mistake at
+      least, and that it is a dangerous thing to have wine in the house, and
+      especially to give it to children.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;He would have a very gross and imperfect conception of our character,&rdquo;
+       said Thorwald, &ldquo;who should have the thoughts which you express. I can
+      judge something of the nature of the feeling which you say exists on the
+      earth, however, for only a few days ago I was reading a full account of
+      the different temperance movements on our planet. Few subjects in our
+      history are more interesting. Do not despise the temperance reformers, and
+      if you think they are sometimes too radical you can afford to excuse that
+      for the sake of the absolute good they accomplish. All through the early
+      part of our career there was a perpetual warfare against the drinking
+      habit. At first wine was an ordinary article of food, and in some
+      countries more commonly used for drinking than water. There was much abuse
+      of it, but in general people used it as a matter of course, without
+      thinking they were any more responsible for the drunkards than they were
+      for the intemperate in eating. But the evil of overdrinking increased, and
+      some religious reformers found that the easiest way to check it was to
+      forbid all use of intoxicants. Here is an extreme example that I have read
+      of what one such reformer taught: &lsquo;If a single drop of alcoholic liquor
+      should fall into a well one hundred and fifty feet deep, and if the well
+      should afterwards be filled up and grass grow over it, and a sheep should
+      eat of the grass, then my followers must not partake of that mutton.&rsquo; 
+      Could any of your prohibitionists be more radical than that?
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;In later times many kinds of strong and poisonous drinks were made, and
+      untold harm was done by their use. Drunkenness was the most fruitful
+      source of crime and misery; it, more than any other cause, filled the
+      jails, the almshouses and the insane asylums; it kept men in poverty and
+      squalor; it scattered families and changed men, and sometimes women, too,
+      into beasts. No class or profession was free from the evil, for it
+      disqualified the scholar and statesman for their duties just as it
+      unfitted the laborer for his daily task. It helped to debauch politics and
+      public morals, while it brought disgrace and ruin to private reputation
+      and character. More money was lost by it than was spent to educate and
+      Christianize the world, and it cost more precious lives than war and
+      pestilence combined. Being a crime utterly selfish and debasing, as well
+      as extremely tenacious of its hold upon the individual life, it was almost
+      the greatest enemy to the spread of the gospel.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Was there anything in the way of good to be said of the drinking habit to
+      offset all this harm? Men drank to be sociable and companionable and to
+      please their friends, and when the habit was fastened on them found they
+      had lost every friend of value. They took to their cups to drown their
+      sorrow, and found a sorrow more poignant among the dregs. They began the
+      moderate use of stimulants to give strength to the body or activity to the
+      brain, and discovered when too late that their abuse had brought down in
+      common ruin both body and mind. No, it is impossible that anyone should
+      ever attempt to make an argument in favor of drunkenness.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;The more active the age the more prevalent was this evil, but the
+      greater, also, was the determination to overthrow it. When the conscience
+      was quickened by the growth of Christianity and men&rsquo;s lives became more
+      valued, many persistent efforts were made to stamp out the crime of
+      intoxication.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Numerous societies were organized and good men and women entered heartily
+      into the work. Every argument was used to show the danger of the drink
+      habit and to teach the beauty and value of sobriety, appeal being made
+      both to the reason and the conscience. The power of the state was invoked
+      and punishment administered to the drunkards, while the manufacture and
+      sale of intoxicants were restricted and sometimes prohibited. We see how
+      firm a hold this evil had on all classes when we read that very often
+      public sentiment would not permit these beneficent laws to be enforced. In
+      all great reforms the apathy of a large part of the people has been a most
+      discouraging feature.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Of course it was never intrinsically wrong to drink a glass of wine, but
+      in view of the enormous amount of sorrow and trouble caused by
+      overdrinking, can it be wondered at that many earnest souls came to abhor
+      everything in the nature of intoxicating drink, and to practice and insist
+      on total abstinence? Oh, I can tell you if I lived on the earth now I
+      should be a radical of the radicals on this subject.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Notwithstanding which,&rdquo; said I, &ldquo;here you are sitting at your own table
+      and pouring into our glasses this delicious wine.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      As a smile passed around at this remark it was Zenith who said:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Do you see anything incongruous in that?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      I paused a moment to choose a reply, when the doctor spoke up with:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Far be it from us, Zenith, with our earth-born ideas, to even seem to
+      pass judgment in this happy place, but I presume my companion was trying
+      to imagine what our temperance friends, who do not know you, would say.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;As for us,&rdquo; said Thorwald, &ldquo;I trust we shall be justified in your eyes at
+      least, before we are through, but let us inquire about those whom you call
+      your temperance friends. I suppose they would have a poor opinion of a man
+      who was loud in his public advocacy of temperance and yet drank wine at
+      home.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I think,&rdquo; I replied, &ldquo;that I have heard some such term as &lsquo;hypocrite&rsquo; 
+      applied to men of that class.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;And yet,&rdquo; continued Thorwald, &ldquo;they would think it perfectly proper for a
+      man to keep razors away from his children, but at the same time have one
+      or more concealed about the house somewhere for his own use. It might very
+      easily be argued that razors were dangerous things under any conditions;
+      the children might find them by accident and do great harm to themselves
+      or others; the man himself, though accustomed to their moderate use,
+      might, in a moment of overconfidence, go too far and inflict a serious
+      injury on himself or even a fatal one; and, further, it might be said that
+      razors are of no real use to men, for nature knows best what is needed for
+      protection, and if hair on the face was not necessary for the well-being
+      of man it would not grow there. This argument could be pushed until, under
+      an awakened public sentiment, the manufacture and sale of razors might be
+      prohibited.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I have said this to introduce a plea for tolerance of opinion. You were
+      created, I have no doubt, as we were, with different temperaments and
+      inclinations, which, with various kinds of education, produce different
+      opinions. You cannot all have the same mind on any given subject, nor all
+      approve of the same methods of reform, but you will make but little
+      progress in true temperance until you can bury minor differences and all
+      work together. You must learn that everything that has been made, whether
+      produced by the direct hand of God or through the agency of man, has its
+      proper use. Do you say that some people would express the wish that
+      everything intoxicating could be destroyed from the earth, as having no
+      proper use? All the evil in it will surely be removed, but the good will
+      remain. At present it is one of the stubborn obstructions in your thorny
+      path. If your way were to be suddenly made smooth and easy your race would
+      never learn self-denial, the only road that leads to a higher state. Your
+      present imperfect life is a daily conflict, and it is only by battles won
+      and temptations overcome that you will ever be built up into virtuous and
+      God-like characters.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I said you must be tolerant. I can conceive that a man might feel
+      perfectly safe in the use of wine and have no scruples of any kind against
+      it, and yet be sincere in urging people in general to totally abstain from
+      it on account of the harm some might receive. This man must not be denied
+      a place in the temperance ranks. Another might think it a sin to touch a
+      drop. One might believe the only right way to deal with the subject would
+      be to prohibit the sale entirely, another would think more might be done
+      by some other method of restriction. All that I have read of our
+      experiences goes to prove that the people of the earth will never drive
+      out this evil till all shades of temperance people get Christianity enough
+      into their hearts to unite on a broad platform and work as one army with a
+      single purpose.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Will you not tell us,&rdquo; I asked, &ldquo;how the reform was finally effected on
+      Mars?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Like all other true reforms,&rdquo; replied Thorwald, &ldquo;it came about through
+      the sanctified commonsense of the church of God, not suddenly by any
+      means, but gradually and only after many years of severe struggle. A
+      combined effort of all good people, especially women, working with
+      spiritual as well as moral weapons, produced an impression which was
+      lasting. When men were taught from their childhood the dangers which
+      accompany the drinking habit; when one class of people denied themselves
+      all indulgence for the sake of the class who were weak; when drinking
+      became a disgrace, and those who could not keep sober were taken in charge
+      by the state and permanently separated from the rest of the community;
+      when the church awoke to its full duty and the rich poured out their
+      money; when men and women forgot fashion and pride and caste in their love
+      for the practical work of Christianity; when the power of the gospel had
+      strengthened men&rsquo;s will and had begun to plant in every heart a love for
+      something purer than fleshly appetite; when the spiritual part of our
+      nature began to gain the ascendency and to occupy the place for which it
+      was made; then intemperance loosed its hold and soon disappeared, never to
+      trouble us again.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;You see it was a long road with us and I have no doubt it will prove so
+      on the earth, but do not on that account lose courage. And let me counsel
+      both of you to join the ranks of the reformers when you get home.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Although intemperate drinking has long been unknown among us, as well as
+      all other gross imperfections of character, we still make good wine, and
+      no more danger is felt in drinking it than in using milk. Everybody can
+      have all he wants of it. Our tables may be supplied with the luxuries of
+      every clime, but we have learned that it is best for us to be temperate in
+      both eating and drinking. I am sorry your temperance friends, as you say,
+      would not approve of us, but when you see them I trust you will do what
+      you can to let them understand that such temptations as this of which we
+      have been speaking belong to the childhood of a race, and that the people
+      of Mars have long since passed out of infancy.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <hr />
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2HCH0032" id="link2HCH0032"> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      CHAPTER XXXII. A GENUINE ACCIDENT.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      Mona did not feel obliged to be present at our conversations after she had
+      explained her position to us, but I saw her many times every day. I tried
+      to respect her feeling and avoid the subject which still occupied so many
+      of my thoughts. I fought against my passion, which I told myself was
+      unmanly, since it was not returned in the good, old-fashioned way. What
+      man of spirit would submit to the enchantment of one who, while professing
+      she loved him with her whole heart, declared in the same breath that she
+      also loved equally well half a dozen others? I tried to make up my mind to
+      shake off the spell and be free. To this end I endeavored to examine my
+      heart with the purpose of discovering if possible the secret of Mona&rsquo;s
+      power over me.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      I was sure I could not be weak enough to be held so firmly by her beauty
+      alone, lovely as she was. Her mental equipment did not seem to furnish the
+      ground for such a deep attachment, and I could not believe that I was good
+      enough to be so powerfully drawn to her by the inimitable character of her
+      spiritual nature. What, then, was the attraction? It was not far to seek.
+      What was it that first moved me, before I had ever seen her? What
+      accomplishment was it that always came to my mind first when I thought of
+      her? In short, what would Mona, silent, be? I could hardly imagine. But
+      then, she was not silent, and I knew well enough that, struggle as I
+      night, I never could successfully resist the subtle charm of that voice.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      So, as I saw no escape for me, I next began to study how I could infuse
+      into Mona&rsquo;s love for me something more of the personal element. How could
+      I teach her to love me just a little for myself alone? Evidently she had
+      been educated in an atmosphere of the most uncompromising monotony. Where
+      everybody loved everybody what chance could there be for lovers? I
+      wondered what would move Mona. Some heroic action which should appeal to
+      her sympathies would probably do it. She had been pleased with the part I
+      had taken in discovering her retreat in the moon, and perhaps something
+      else in that line would help me. But what was there one could possibly do
+      in Mars which could be called heroic? I should have to ask Thorwald if he
+      could think of anything I could do to arouse the imagination of Mona and
+      bring her a little closer to me.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Not long after I had been indulging in these conflicting thoughts I had a
+      more promising opportunity than I had hoped for of showing Mona that I
+      could do something besides make love to her.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      One morning she came to me and said she would like to go out for a long
+      ride. As I never lost an opportunity of being alone with her I eagerly
+      accepted this one and hurried off with her, lest any other member of the
+      household should appear and propose to accompany us. Mona was as agreeable
+      as ever, and chirruped away in her musical style as we walked down the
+      hill in search of just the right carriage. We soon found one which pleased
+      us, and as I was by this time perfectly at home in the management of these
+      vehicles, we started off at a brisk pace along a road which took us
+      through a charming section of the country. It made me happy to reflect
+      that this pleasant ride was at Mona&rsquo;s suggestion. Although she had
+      peculiar views about my manner of wooing, she did not shun my company, and
+      I could not refuse to believe she really loved me as she said. I turned on
+      more power, and as our speed became exhilarating I said to my companion:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Mona, they will think we have eloped.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Excuse me,&rdquo; came out in sweet notes, &ldquo;you will have to explain.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Dear me, were your people so very proper that you don&rsquo;t even know the
+      meaning of that word? Didn&rsquo;t they ever do anything wrong?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Oh, is it wrong to elope?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;That depends entirely on the point of view. But I cannot explain further
+      without bringing up the subject which you have forbidden me to speak
+      about.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;What subject is that? I have forgotten that I have ever put you under
+      such a prohibition.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Why, the subject that is always nearest my heart and nearest my lips, the
+      subject of my great love for you, dear Mona, so different from my regard
+      for any other person.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Oh, I remember now, but I assure you I had forgotten all about it.&rdquo; And
+      here her voice suddenly lost much of its tenderness and assumed a
+      character which she rarely employed, as she continued, &ldquo;But let us not
+      discuss that topic again. I already know all you have to say on it, and
+      why should we waste our time with such useless talk when there are so many
+      more valuable things to occupy our attention?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Forgive me,&rdquo; I exclaimed. &ldquo;If you will promise me not to sing in that
+      tone again I will talk about anything you wish.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I agree,&rdquo; she responded, and never did her accents sound sweeter.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Somehow I was not so much affected by Mona&rsquo;s coldness this time as before,
+      and I was able to recover my cheerfulness at once. I then determined to
+      give her no occasion for another rebuff if I could help it, but to do all
+      in my power to entertain her with what she called sensible conversation.
+      There were many things connected with society on the earth in which she
+      took a lively interest, and I made a great effort to talk myself into her
+      favor, so that she would not say again that she preferred the doctor&rsquo;s
+      company to mine.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      We had been riding a couple of hours or more, generally at a swift pace,
+      when, from a high point in the road, we saw we were approaching the shore
+      of the sea or a large lake.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Mona was so delighted with the view that I said:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;If we can find any kind of a boat on the shore we will have a ride on the
+      water.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Can you manage a boat?&rdquo; she asked.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Oh, yes, if it is not too large.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But it may be some new kind, something you are not acquainted with.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Then I shall have to study it out. But you are not afraid to go on the
+      water with me, are you?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;If there is anything in this pleasant world to give me fear it is water
+      in such mass as that,&rdquo; she replied, stretching out her hand toward the
+      sea.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But I thought you were afraid of nothing,&rdquo; said I. &ldquo;You have taught me
+      the word,&rdquo; she responded, &ldquo;and I hardly know its meaning yet, but I must
+      acknowledge that I shrink from the ocean. Its vastness, so much water,
+      overwhelms me. You know it is many, many years since the moon had any
+      large bodies of water.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;So it is,&rdquo; I exclaimed, &ldquo;and everything will be new to you. What sport we
+      shall have, and I shall make it my business to see that the water does not
+      harm you.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      We hurried down to the shore and found the prettiest little boat I had
+      ever seen all ready for us, as if we had ordered it for the occasion. It
+      was evidently intended for children, but was fitted with both sails and
+      oars, and also, I was glad to find, with a little screw and an electric
+      apparatus to turn it. I was overjoyed with our good fortune, and prepared
+      at once to embark. But Mona plainly hesitated. She kept up her musical
+      chatter and tried to be as cheerful as ever, but I saw she was not as
+      eager for the trip as I was. I did not let her see that I noticed her
+      manner, however, and went on with my preparations. When I had brought the
+      boat around so that she could step into it conveniently, she looked in my
+      face, and asked in a voice which trembled with excitement:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Are you sure you understand how to manage it? It is all so strange to
+      me.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      She wanted to decline to make the venture, I thought, but her courage was
+      too great. Now was the time when I proved myself still a son of the earth,
+      with fallible judgment and a will too much engrossed with self. I had been
+      wishing for an opportunity to do some difficult thing for Mona, something
+      noble which should win her affection, and here, when the chance offered, I
+      did not recognize it. The truly heroic action would have been to respect
+      Mona&rsquo;s feeling and give up the idea entirely, for I knew she had a strong
+      aversion to trusting herself on the water. But it was really my own
+      pleasure and not hers that I was seeking, for in answer to her question I
+      said hurriedly:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Why, certainly. It is as easy to control as the carriage we have just
+      left. We&rsquo;ll not put up the sails if you say so, and I promise to bring you
+      back all safe and sound in a short time. I am sure you will enjoy the new
+      experience, and then I want to hear how your voice sounds on the water.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Well, I will go,&rdquo; she said, &ldquo;on your promise to protect me; but I have
+      the queerest sensation, I don&rsquo;t know what to call it. Do you think it is
+      fear?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Oh, no, it can&rsquo;t be that, because there is nothing to fear. Are you ready
+      now? Let me take your hand.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      As she stepped in and felt the motion she realized how unstable the water
+      really was, and sank down at my feet, emitting an involuntary note of not
+      very joyful quality. But she showed great bravery and, as I helped her to
+      a seat, she said she would no doubt enjoy it after a while. I now shoved
+      the boat out and used the oars a few minutes, but soon tiring of that
+      exercise, I looked into the operation of the electric motor and found it
+      quite simple. Turning on the power, the screw worked to perfection and
+      sent the boat through the water in good shape.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Mona was now recovering her spirits, seeing that no harm came to her, and
+      at my request she sang some of her native songs. This was delightful, and
+      I resigned myself to the full enjoyment of the occasion. It seemed to me
+      that the excitement she had just passed through added a new and pleasing
+      quality to her voice, if that were possible. As I sat listening and
+      musing, my memory carried me back to the first time I had heard this
+      marvelous singer, and I could not help contrasting the two situations. I
+      felicitated myself on my present happiness, for when Mona was singing I
+      wanted nothing more. I seemed to forget then that she would not listen to
+      my tale of love, or if I thought of it I attached no consequence to it.
+      The voice seemed to be a thing by itself, and a thing which in some way
+      appeared to belong wholly to me, whether Mona was mine or not.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      She stopped singing after a while and asked if we had better not start for
+      home. To which I replied:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I turned the boat around some time ago, and we are now headed directly
+      for the place where we found it.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      When she expressed surprise at this I steered about in various directions
+      to show her how easily it was done, and then some mischievous spirit,
+      which. I myself must have imported into Mars, put it into my head to try
+      and see how fast our little vessel could go. My idea was partly to satisfy
+      my own curiosity and partly to treat Mona to as great a variety of
+      sensations as possible. The electric apparatus was extremely sensitive,
+      and a slight movement of the lever made an instant increase in our speed.
+      A little more, and we began to go through the water at quite a handsome
+      rate. I enjoyed it immensely, and if Mona did not like it she had pluck
+      enough not to make it known. This emboldened me to put on still more
+      power, which sent the boat ploughing along at such a velocity that the
+      spray flew all about us and the boat shook so that we kept our seats with
+      difficulty. Not knowing what I might be led to do next, and being in
+      reality terribly frightened, if she had only known what the feeling was,
+      Mona now mildly expostulated with:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Isn&rsquo;t this a little too fast? Something might happen.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Don&rsquo;t be afraid,&rdquo; I replied. &ldquo;I&rsquo;ll take care of you. The doctor must have
+      taught you that last word, as it is not used here. You know nothing ever
+      happens in Mars. Everything goes along in the even tenor of its way, moved
+      by laws which are fixed and certain. This boat, you see, is strong and
+      well able to bear the strain. The water is smooth and contains no hidden
+      rocks, and it is perfectly easy to steer clear of the shore, which you see
+      is some distance off yet. But now that I have given you this little
+      excitement, which you will not regret after it is all over, I will stop
+      the current which produces this great force and bring in an artificial
+      law, as it were, to override the natural law now in operation. Just look
+      at this lever and see how easily it is done.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      I seized the handle, intending to shut off the power suddenly, but by some
+      unaccountable mistake I turned it the wrong way. Instantly I saw the bow
+      of the boat jump out of the water and go over our heads, and then Mona and
+      I realized that something had actually happened on Mars, for we were both
+      buried under the boat.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      I was the first to extricate myself and come to the surface, and, not
+      seeing my companion, I thought she was surely lost. I might save her yet,
+      though, and was just about to dive under the boat again, when her head
+      appeared insight, only a little way from me, her eyes wide open and,
+      really, a smile on her face.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Can you swim, Mona?&rdquo; I cried, excitedly.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      She had not the breath to answer or else thought my question unnecessary.
+      But I soon found my own answer when I saw her head sinking again just as I
+      had reached her. I clutched her, and, as I held her head above the water,
+      I began to understand that I had something on my hands to fulfill my
+      promise to take care of her. At this instant I saw one of the oars from
+      the boat floating a little way from us and managed to secure it, holding
+      Mona with one arm and swimming with the other. I now helped my companion
+      to half support herself by grasping the oar, while for the rest she was
+      induced to throw an arm over my shoulder. In this way I was left free to
+      make what progress I could through the water, and I lost no time in
+      swimming toward the shore, since there was no hope of our being able to
+      make use of the boat, which now lay, bottom up, on the surface.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      All this was done without a word from Mona, although I had been talking to
+      her freely, giving her directions and assuring her of my ability to save
+      her. As this was her first experience in drowning, she had evidently been
+      trying to sing under the water and had found it so difficult that she had
+      determined to keep her lips closed till she was well out of it. With this
+      thought in my mind I said to her as soon as we were under way:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Your head is so far above water now that you can open your mouth with
+      perfect safety. You see I can talk, and my head is much lower than yours.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      She was so situated that I could not see her face easily, and therefore I
+      do not know whether she ventured to unstop her lips or not, but no sound
+      came from them if she did. Perhaps the water still filled her ears and
+      made her deaf. So I called aloud:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Can you hear me, Mona?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      No answer in words, but I imagined I felt a slight pressure of her hand on
+      my shoulder. I toiled on, musing over her strange behavior, till it
+      occurred to me to try a subject which had never failed to bring a response
+      from her.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I hope this will make you more affectionate to me, dear Mona,&rdquo; I said;
+      and then, as she made no answer, I continued:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;If we reach the shore alive and get home safe you will love me more than
+      you do Foedric, will you not?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      I thought this would bring an answer, and I was not disappointed, except
+      in the manner in which it came. Not the faintest note escaped from her
+      lips, but a throb of feeling came along her arm, and her hand grasped my
+      shoulder with unmistakable vigor. I suppose she thought I would understand
+      what this answer meant, but I was puzzled. It might mean so many things.
+      Perhaps her heart was softening toward me and she was so much affected by
+      her love for me, stronger and deeper than she had ever thought it could
+      be, that she dared not speak. With this possibility in view I began to
+      feel very tender toward her and to experience the pleasure of one whose
+      love is returned in full measure.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      But then her answer might have quite a different meaning. What if she were
+      telling me that she had determined never to speak another word on that
+      subject, and that my question was an offense to her? Surely she had told
+      me often enough to talk about more sensible things, and perhaps this was
+      only a new and forcible way of repeating the same injunction. I reflected,
+      too, that it was hardly fair to take advantage of the present situation to
+      force upon her a prohibited topic of conversation.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      There was another possible meaning to her manner of answering me. Perhaps
+      she was indignant because I had insisted on her getting into the boat with
+      me against her wish, and held me strictly responsible for all that
+      followed. With this view in mind I imagined she was saying to herself:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I want nothing to say to you. I accept your assistance because I cannot
+      get to shore without you, but when once out of this dreadful water I shall
+      have nothing more to do with you.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      To place against the latter theory I had the fact that Mona&rsquo;s face had
+      beamed with pleasure all the time I was getting her fixed so I could swim
+      freely. Dwelling upon this memory my mind returned to thoughts of love,
+      and I felt that I must try once more to start that familiar song. So I
+      said:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Forgive me, Mona, if I have offended you, and let me hear your voice
+      again. You are too good to punish me so severely for my fault in getting
+      you into this trouble. Will you not cheer me with a few notes while I bear
+      you safely to the shore?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      Again a pressure of the hand but no expression from the lips, and I was
+      left to further conjecture over the strange mood my companion was in. I
+      swam leisurely, so as not to exhaust my strength, and as there was a
+      considerable distance to go I had plenty of time to think after I had
+      found it impossible to induce Mona to enter into conversation. Although so
+      near, my companion seemed far away, and I became extremely lonesome. In
+      trying to determine what had occasioned such a mishap in a world where I
+      had been taught to believe such things entirely out of date, I came to the
+      conclusion that the Martians owe their freedom from many misfortunes to
+      their ripened characters, rather than to anything peculiar in their
+      physical laws. With my imperfect development I had made an error in
+      judgment in taking Mona upon the water, and with my untrained mind I had
+      simply made a mistake when I turned the lever of the electric apparatus
+      the wrong way. The Martians had reached such high attainments in every
+      direction that it was practically impossible for them to make mistakes.
+      Thus had they freed themselves from many of the vexations which harass the
+      people of a younger world.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      I was fortunately able to endure the strain of the great task which I had
+      undertaken, and finally succeeded in bringing my precious burden to land
+      and helping her to a place of safety. We were both pretty well fatigued
+      with our exertions, but felt no danger from our wet clothes, because of
+      the mild and balmy air.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Mona&rsquo;s behavior still perplexed me. Her manner was delightfully pleasant
+      and familiar. Now that we were safe she appeared to appreciate the
+      humorous part of the situation, and I was loath to believe that she could
+      or would affect such good nature if she were harboring unpleasant feelings
+      toward me. But I could not account for her continued silence, for as yet
+      no word nor sound of any kind had come from her lips. Her face and hands,
+      however, were continually in motion, and after I had overcome my usual
+      stupidity I discovered that she was actually making signs.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Why, Mona,&rdquo; I exclaimed, &ldquo;can&rsquo;t you speak?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      She shook her head.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Nor sing, I mean?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      Another shake.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Do you mean to say you have lost your voice?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      A nod.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      For a moment a shadow settled upon her face, occasioned, no doubt, by my
+      falling countenance, for I must have shown something of the great shock to
+      my feelings. Mona without the voice of Mona! I could not at once realize
+      the depth of my loss. And now it was her turn to attempt to restore my
+      spirits, as we fell back to our original mode of conversing. I urged her
+      to make an effort to sing, and she told me she had tried many times, and
+      that it had grieved her to be so unsocial while I was toiling so hard to
+      save her life.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Why, my dear,&rdquo; I answered, &ldquo;I thought you were angry with me for speaking
+      to you again about my love.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      Her reply was a look so full of tenderness that I was almost sure that, if
+      she had had her voice, she would have used it more kindly than before.
+      Still it may have been only compassion.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      By this time we had found our carriage and were on our way home, and I am
+      sure that if, on our arrival, our friends had judged from our looks, they
+      would have supposed I, and not Mona, had experienced a great misfortune.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Avis had returned to her distant home several days before this, but
+      Antonia and Foedric were at Thorwald&rsquo;s when we arrived, and I had the
+      unpleasant task of relating to the whole household our sad experience. I
+      did not spare myself, although they were all kind enough to offer every
+      manner of excuse for me. Everybody showed sympathy with Mona in all
+      possible ways, but she herself still exhibited the same sunny disposition
+      as ever, although the house seemed quiet without her bright and happy
+      song.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <hr />
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2HCH0033" id="link2HCH0033"> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      CHAPTER XXXIII. THE EMANCIPATION OF WOMAN.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      Family life in this model home went forward without a jar. Thorwald and
+      Zenith exhibited not the least sign of restraint before us, so that what
+      we saw from day to day we were sure was their natural and usual behavior.
+      They never worked at cross purposes, were never impatient nor forgetful of
+      each other, but without effort, apparently, to avoid friction, they always
+      did what was best pleasing to themselves, and at the same time what was
+      just suited to each other. This happy state of affairs did not come from a
+      division of labor, by which Zenith should have nothing to do with outside
+      matters and Thorwald nothing to say about how things should go in the
+      house, but it seemed to proceed from their innate love of harmony, their
+      perfect compatibility, and their practical equality. The doctor and I saw
+      there was something here far different from anything existing in the
+      conjugal relation on the earth, but we could not decide just what it was.
+      The doctor was strongly of the opinion, however, that it arose in some way
+      from the higher condition of woman.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;You know,&rdquo; he said, when we were alone, &ldquo;the civilization of a people on
+      our planet is pretty correctly measured by the position occupied by the
+      women, so that here, in this exalted society, they must be held in high
+      esteem, if there is the same analogy between the two worlds in this as in
+      so many other things.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      I quite agreed with him, and took the first opportunity when we were all
+      together to introduce the subject.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I should like to direct the conversation,&rdquo; I said, addressing our host
+      and hostess, &ldquo;to a topic of considerable interest, just now, to the people
+      of the earth. I am sure we can learn something of value in regard to it
+      from you, and I will introduce it, if you will pardon my impertinence,
+      with a personal question. Will you please tell me who is the head of this
+      household?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Zenith.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Thorwald.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      Two answers in one breath.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;It is very polite of you,&rdquo; I said, &ldquo;to disclaim the honor and each one
+      give it to the other, but, seriously, is there no head?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Why, no,&rdquo; answered Thorwald; &ldquo;we never think of such a thing, and yet you
+      must admit that things run smoothly without it.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I will then try again, if you please,&rdquo; I said. &ldquo;Which of you is the
+      bread-winner?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      To which Zenith replied:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;That question is hardly appropriate, for you know we do not work for our
+      daily bread. The bread would come anyway, whether we worked or not; but
+      then, as a matter of fact, every one does work at some useful occupation,
+      because we have found out by long experience that it is much better for us
+      than idleness. If you reply that you have not seen us work while you have
+      been here, I will say that our time is considered to be well employed if
+      we can be learning anything or imparting knowledge to others, as this is
+      supposed to add indirectly to the general well-being of society. But
+      perhaps what you want to know is which of us does the more to benefit the
+      world, and even this would be a difficult question to answer. Thorwald
+      creates, we will say, an elaborate design for a noble cathedral, and as he
+      watches its fair proportions rise under the hands of skilled men, who take
+      an equal pride and satisfaction in their work, his heart is made glad by
+      the thought that for many years after he has left the body the structure
+      will be used as a place for teaching the way of life, with its graceful
+      spires pointing men to heaven. While I, perhaps&mdash;&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Let me tell that part,&rdquo; interrupted Thorwald. &ldquo;While Zenith, with just as
+      strong a feeling of responsibility for a share of the world&rsquo;s work,
+      composes a beautiful song and writes the music for it, and then sings it
+      before a vast audience, while the phonograph catches it and holds it for
+      future generations. Is she not doing as much as I am toward earning the
+      bread for the family?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;It certainly cannot be denied,&rdquo; I answered. &ldquo;But what I want to find out
+      is, to use a homely expression common with us, which of you two holds the
+      reins in this home?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Well,&rdquo; replied Thorwald, laughing, &ldquo;that is a figure of speech which is
+      not employed here, for we use no reins of any kind; but I know what you
+      mean, and I will answer you by saying that we each hold one rein, and in
+      that way drive as steadily as if we were one person.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But when disputes arise, which one gives in?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Disputes never arise, and if they did we would both &lsquo;give in,&rsquo; whatever
+      that expression means.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;If not your wills, do not your wishes or inclinations sometimes oppose
+      each other?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Why, no,&rdquo; Thorwald answered quickly. &ldquo;It is impossible, and for this
+      reason: each one of us is so intent on trying to please the other that we
+      are saved from all temptation to selfishness, which is the root and source
+      of all differences.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      While I was considering what next to ask, the doctor broke in with:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I think my companion will be obliged to discontinue his questions and
+      accept the truth that here we have found an ideal household, where husband
+      and wife are in reality equal. Let me ask if the women, all over this
+      happy world, are treated with as much consideration as in the case before
+      us.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Why, what a funny question,&rdquo; exclaimed Zenith, before Thorwald could
+      speak. &ldquo;Why don&rsquo;t you ask if, all over this happy world, we treat our men
+      with consideration and respect? But, to save you the trouble of asking, I
+      will say that, all over this happy world, a man is held in as high esteem
+      and is as tenderly cared for as a woman, every bit. Your words, Doctor,
+      remind me that I have several times wanted to speak to you about a certain
+      manner which you and your friend have exhibited toward me. No one could
+      accuse you of disrespect to Thorwald; indeed, I think your carriage toward
+      him is excellent, but with me you seem to be a little strained, and your
+      manner is a trifle effusive. Pardon me for the criticism. I know your
+      action is well meant, although it is something I am not accustomed to.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I suppose,&rdquo; said the doctor, &ldquo;you refer to our feeble and, it appears,
+      stupid efforts to be polite.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Oh, then I ought to feel complimented instead of finding fault with you.
+      But why should you wish to be more respectful to me than to Thorwald? He
+      is more worthy your regard than I am, and has as many rights in this house
+      as I have, exactly.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;We have been taught to pay an extra deference to women,&rdquo; answered the
+      doctor.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Why?&rdquo; asked Zenith. &ldquo;Because they are superior beings?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Hardly that, I think.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Then it must be because they are considered inferior, and you seek to
+      hide your real feeling, which is one of commiseration, by a false show of
+      politeness.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;That sounds harsh,&rdquo; said the doctor, &ldquo;and I believe you are not correct.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Oh, I do not mean to criticise you personally,&rdquo; Zenith made haste to say,
+      &ldquo;but the system. It seems to me that you, Doctor, try to be sincere; and
+      assuming that to be so, let me ask you why you are more ceremonious in
+      your manner to your neighbor&rsquo;s wife than to your neighbor&rsquo;s husband.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Well, let me see. Why do I instinctively make a special show of respect
+      in meeting a woman? I never analyzed my feeling, but I will try to do so
+      for you. I think one principal reason is because it is so very
+      conventional that she would expect it, and think me either piqued or
+      ill-bred if I omitted it. Then, deeper than that is a desire to tell her
+      that I recognize in her and admire those graces and amenities which are
+      supposed to be peculiar to her sex. And I suppose there is, also, a little
+      selfishness in it, as if I were asking her to take note that I knew what
+      were the usages of good society.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But would you not also tell her in effect by your flattery, if you will
+      excuse the word, that she and the rest of her sex are by birth not quite
+      equal to men, and you are trying to make up the difference all you can by
+      politeness?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I am not conscious of such a feeling, I am sure,&rdquo; answered the doctor.
+      &ldquo;It seems to me that woman is entitled to some extra attention because she
+      is physically weaker than man.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;True,&rdquo; said Zenith; &ldquo;that is a good reason why she should be protected.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;And should we not maintain and practice toward her the spirit of true
+      courtesy?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Most certainly. But women should also exercise the same spirit toward
+      men. The duty is reciprocal. The days of knight-errantry, when men were
+      chivalrous and women were merely beautiful, should not last forever;
+      women, too, should learn to be chivalrous. Do not imagine I would have you
+      less considerate or thoughtful of anyone, or less demonstrative in your
+      feelings, if you will only remember that men and women are equal, have
+      equal duties and privileges, and should have similar treatment. Great
+      respect should go where it is deserved, whether to man or woman. If I were
+      an inhabitant of the earth and a woman, I should try to have some such
+      thought as this: one man of character knows another good man is his equal;
+      therefore as they treat each other so I would have them treat me, for then
+      I would know that they held me, also, as an equal, and not as a doll,
+      pretty and well dressed perhaps, but brainless, nor as a child who must
+      not be told things too deep for its mind.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I begin to understand you,&rdquo; said the doctor. &ldquo;You first get me to admit
+      that women are not a superior order of beings, and then you argue that, as
+      we do not treat them exactly as we do each other, we cannot consider them
+      our equals, and therefore nothing remains but that we must look upon them
+      as inferior to us.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      Zenith gave a pleasant little pink laugh and answered:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I see you have found me out. But you do not deny that my logic is
+      correct.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I have tried to tell you several times,&rdquo; returned the doctor, with a
+      smile, &ldquo;that, as for me, I do not feel guilty of harboring the least
+      degrading sentiment toward women. But I cannot answer for the opinions of
+      the world at large. This subject promises to be more interesting than we
+      anticipated. I see you know a great deal about it. Have women always been
+      accorded an equality with men, or is it a part of your mature
+      development?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Now, Doctor, just see how prejudiced you are. You would never think of
+      asking if the men of Mars had always been the equal of women. It would be
+      quite as natural with us to ask it in one way as the other.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I will try again, then, by asking if the two sexes have always been so
+      happily equal as at this time.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I will give you a direct answer to that question. They have not. But I
+      think I have talked enough for once. Thorwald will tell you all about our
+      tortuous course in reaching our present condition, if you wish.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Not at all,&rdquo; said Thorwald. &ldquo;I would like to tell it, but this is a topic
+      that Zenith has taken a special interest in, and she shall have the
+      pleasure of talking to you about it.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Now then!&rdquo; I said to myself, &ldquo;here is a difference right away. Zenith
+      says Thorwald must tell it; Thorwald would like to do so, but insists on
+      sacrificing himself for Zenith&rsquo;s sake. Now, what if Zenith should prefer
+      the pleasure of self-denial, and refuse to let Thorwald immolate his
+      desire so readily? What could prevent war in this happy family? Would a
+      quarrel be any less a quarrel because its cause was unselfishness rather
+      than selfishness?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      But if I, with a worldly heart, was expecting a lapse from these excellent
+      people, I was disappointed, for Zenith, with a look of wifely affection
+      toward Thorwald, said pleasantly:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Very well, since Thorwald is so kind, I will do my best, if you are sure
+      you will not tire of hearing me talk.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      The doctor and I expressed our pleasure with the arrangement, and Zenith
+      began:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I wish to say at the start that, whatever may have been your experience
+      on this question, it is hardly possible that your mistakes have equaled
+      ours, for the folly and wickedness of our race have been stupendous and of
+      long continuance.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;If you will excuse the interruption,&rdquo; I said, &ldquo;I will suggest that we can
+      sympathize with you, as our history shows the greatest injustice to
+      women.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Your remark proves to me that you cannot fully sympathize with us. I did
+      not infer, as you seem to do, that the women of Mars had been the only
+      victims of injustice.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But without further delay let me begin, only do not hesitate to break in
+      upon my story with any inquiries that suggest themselves to you.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;We read that God created man, male and female; that is, there came forth
+      from the hand of the Maker a male man and a female man, and all through
+      that early age of gold they loved each other, and served their God with
+      purity of heart and without a selfish thought. God was their father, they
+      were his children, with equal privileges, equal affection, and equal
+      ability to do faithful service. No evil spirit was near to whisper in the
+      ear of either a suggestion of personal leadership. Ambition, that ambition
+      which would exalt self at the expense of another, was not yet born, and
+      neither of these happy beings could conceive it possible to achieve a
+      higher happiness by lording it over the other.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;So they lived till sin came; and among the woes which sin brought in its
+      train there were few more dreadful than the decree that the man should
+      rule over the woman and that her desire should be unto her husband. For
+      thousands of years our race struggled against that giant evil. During a
+      long period the condition of woman was so low that we know nothing of her,
+      and when she reappears it is only as the servant of man. Made in the image
+      of God as the companion of man and an equal sharer in all his rights and
+      duties, she is now his chattel, a piece of property, held for his selfish
+      use or disposed of for his advantage.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Even in these dark days individuals of our sex rose out of the general
+      degradation and showed that they were fitted by nature for a higher
+      position. But sin and ignorance kept the mass of them under the heel of
+      their masters. As civilization advanced there came some mitigation of
+      their lot, and where pure religion gained a foothold women began to
+      receive recognition; but their state was deplorable indeed among all those
+      peoples whose religion was only gross superstition and idolatry.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;In the process of time Christ came and brought the light of heaven to
+      this dark world, and from that hour woman can well say that her day began
+      to dawn. One of the sweetest strains in her song of salvation is that
+      evoked by the memory of her resurrection from misery and abasement to a
+      position of honor among the children of men. The change, however, was very
+      gradual, for Christianity itself was slow in gaining ground; but the
+      gospel was ever the friend of woman, as of all the oppressed, lifting her
+      up where she could influence the world and begin to fulfill her destiny.
+      As fast as the nations shook off barbarism and became in any degree
+      enlightened, the unnatural burdens were lifted from the shoulders of
+      woman, although for a long time she was compelled to perform more than her
+      share of severe toil even among people who thought themselves civilized.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Then came a time when, in nations of some refinement, there was such a
+      reaction against the injustice and degradation to which woman had so long
+      been subjected that she suddenly became an object of sentimental regard
+      among courtly men. Her noble qualities were exaggerated far beyond their
+      merit, and she was set on a pedestal, to receive homage and all the
+      outward forms of respect from those whom she so recently served as a
+      menial. Being so poorly fitted by her long training in serfdom for such
+      exaltation, what wonder is it that her head was turned by the flattery,
+      and that her recovery was slow and difficult? The insincere and
+      superfluous manners of that period remained for ages a vexation to our
+      growing intelligence and a hindrance to our true progress; and, from what
+      you have said, I am inclined to think you of the earth are now going
+      through some such experience as ours.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;After that epoch had been passed, woman never fell back to her former
+      condition, although she did not yet for a long time reach a position that
+      was at all enviable, except as compared with the dark days of her bondage.
+      But she was now where she could take advantage of the general uplifting of
+      the race, and though kept in the background by man as much as was
+      possible, she was constantly growing and learning, preparing herself for a
+      future of which she would then dare not even to dream.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;And now I am coming, in this rapid sketch, to that period of activity and
+      change which Thorwald has described to you in its industrial features. In
+      portraying some of the evils of those days, arising from our almost
+      ineradicable selfishness, he was obliged to make his picture a somber one,
+      a necessity under which, happily, I am not placed. Looking at the times,
+      not as compared with the present era but with what had gone before, which
+      was the only comparison the people of that day could make, there was much
+      room for encouragement. It was, in truth, a bright day, whose beauty,
+      however, consisted not so much in the realization of happiness as in the
+      promise of still brighter days to come. Material prosperity abounded,
+      education flourished, and religion was beginning to creep down from men&rsquo;s
+      heads into their hearts. Wrongs were righted, justice enthroned, and
+      philanthropy sprang into being. Even while there was so much evil, and
+      while some men seemed to be trying all they could to keep back the
+      breaking dawn, the day was surely coming. The brotherhood of man, long
+      preached as a settled principle, now became a living force, showing itself
+      in a multitude of devices for relieving distress, lessening pain,
+      alleviating poverty, and for the general betterment of society.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Surrounded by such a universal spirit of improvement, woman felt the
+      impulse of new life, and heard the call to a higher service to humanity
+      than she had ever yet rendered. As men&rsquo;s minds broadened and their hearts
+      grew more tender, and as their sympathies reached out to the weak and
+      down-trodden of every class, it was not possible that their ancient
+      prejudice against woman could much longer survive. Her rise from this time
+      forward was rapid. Let us examine the position which, under the influence
+      of this kindly feeling, she soon came to occupy. Protected by many special
+      laws, guarded by all the legitimate forces of society, but exempt from
+      military and police service, honored for her high and noble qualities,
+      respected by all whose regard was of value, and loved with a true
+      affection which scorned the question of individual rights, her lot seemed
+      indeed a happy one. Shielded from the severe struggles of life, freed from
+      the cares of business, released in a great measure from uncongenial work
+      and from the dangers attending exacting labor, with the disagreeable
+      things in life kept from her as much as possible, always seeing the best
+      of every man&rsquo;s character and manners, and, more than all, being supreme in
+      her natural domain, the home, with none to dispute her right, what more
+      could she ask?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;What, indeed?&rdquo; I remarked, as Zenith paused a moment after her question.
+      &ldquo;The picture you have drawn looks so bright, beside your description of
+      her former lot, that I have no doubt she was now contented and happy.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;So you think that shelter and protection and the love of husband and
+      children and the serenity of home ought to be enough to satisfy one who
+      was created with a spirit as restless, a brain as active, an individuality
+      as marked, and hands as clever as those of man?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      As Zenith threw this question at me and waited for me to answer, I
+      realized that I had been caught by her former inquiry, and found not that
+      Zenith was about to take advanced ground on the subject before us. Wishing
+      I had not drawn her attention so squarely to my personal opinions, and yet
+      feeling obliged to stand up for my position, I said:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;It seems to me that woman&rsquo;s surest path to honor and happiness is that
+      marked out for her by nature, a path which she adorns because so well
+      fitted for it, and that to forsake the home and compete with man for the
+      thousand places in the work of the world would be to cast aside the charm
+      of her womanliness and all that makes her what she is, a solace and
+      comfort to all the world. If she seeks for a pleasurable life, where can
+      she find such keen and lasting pleasure as among the duties of home, and
+      if she is ambitious to lift the world to a higher plane, where is it
+      possible for her to have so much influence as in the nurture of the
+      young?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;So spoke the men of our race in the era I am describing to you,&rdquo; replied
+      Zenith. &ldquo;It seems as if you must have been reading some of our old
+      writers, so closely do you follow the ideas then prevalent. I have read
+      and reread those histories until I am quite familiar with them, and you
+      shall hear how such views as you have expressed soon became very
+      old-fashioned.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I am sure your account will closely concern us,&rdquo; I said, &ldquo;for the age of
+      which you are now speaking must be that corresponding to our own times on
+      the earth. The woman question is attracting special attention, and seems
+      bound to remain with us indefinitely; but I am frank to say I think our
+      women are making a mistake in trying to elbow their way into man&rsquo;s domain,
+      whatever may have been the result of the movement in this favored world.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I suppose you would have them stay at home where they belong,&rdquo; said
+      Zenith, with a good-natured laugh, which sounded as if she were confident
+      enough of her ability to meet any possible argument.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Yes,&rdquo; I replied, &ldquo;out of pure kindness to them. It is an astonishing
+      thing to me that they can think of gaining anything by giving up all that
+      is distinctive in their nature and becoming more like us. I am not so much
+      in love with my own sex as to enjoy seeing our sisters and our wives and
+      daughters trying to make themselves over into men.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      I now felt that I had said enough, and so expressed myself to Zenith, but
+      she replied pleasantly that she was glad I had told my thoughts, as it
+      gave her an opportunity to say some things that might not otherwise have
+      been called for.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;You seem to think,&rdquo; she continued, &ldquo;that woman&rsquo;s supreme happiness is to
+      be gained by self-effacement. I suppose her custom is with you, as it
+      formerly was here, to renounce her own name at the marriage altar.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;It is,&rdquo; I replied.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;And from that hour,&rdquo; resumed Zenith, &ldquo;she makes every effort to bury
+      herself, to deny her personality, and to lay aside whatever individual
+      desires and aspirations she may have had; that is, if she is what you
+      would call a true woman. If she objects to this renunciation and attempts
+      to make an independent career suited to her talents, then she is
+      strong-minded and is trying to unsex herself. With the world full of work
+      waiting for her nimble fingers and loving heart, she is compelled to
+      suppress all secret hope of doing something to impress her own character
+      on that world, because her only duty is in the home. A man is also called
+      upon to be a good husband and father, but that by no means comprises all
+      he is expected to be and do. To him it is given to strike out into
+      untrodden fields, and, without reproach, to make a name for himself if
+      possible.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;You say work is hard and disagreeable, but is it all dull and
+      uninteresting? Are there not sweet moments of hope in every work, and then
+      the joy of achievement when it is over? Do not men find this joy and the
+      rewards of labor amply sufficient? The more difficult the task, the
+      greater the satisfaction when it is accomplished. Business is perplexing
+      and uncertain, you say, but what of the triumphs of success? Would any man
+      refuse to undertake an enterprise because success was not certain? The
+      very uncertainty adds zest to the business, and makes hope possible. From
+      all this striving and achieving, and from all the satisfying rewards which
+      come with success, woman is debarred. Then there are the professions and
+      the wide range of occupations which require education and special
+      training. What a variety for man to choose from, while you would confine
+      woman to one; and a great many women, not being born good cooks or good
+      housekeepers, cannot fill that one with any credit to themselves. So what
+      can life be to them compared with what it ought to be? Think of the
+      opportunities they might have in these higher occupations of competing for
+      the prizes of life&mdash;honor, fame, position, riches, and, above all,
+      the consciousness of doing some good in the world. Oh, it is impossible
+      for you to realize anything of the longing in woman&rsquo;s heart to be someone,
+      to do something, and so to be relieved from the everlasting monotony of
+      the treadmill, which, if men were obliged to submit to it, would make the
+      majority of them insane.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;You see I have put myself in the place of one of my sex in that olden
+      time, and have spoken as she felt when to express her feelings would have
+      been almost a shame to her.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;What I desire to show you is that woman had not then received all that
+      was due her, although men seemed to think she was fully emancipated. But
+      events moved rapidly in that stirring age, and this great question could
+      not be kept in the background in a day when every abuse and injustice was
+      allowed a hearing and reform was in the very air. Even the dumb beasts had
+      such powerful advocates that cruelty and unkindness were greatly checked.
+      What wonder then, as men&rsquo;s sensibilities and consciences became quickened,
+      that they should begin to see, what they could not see before, that a
+      fuller liberty ought to be accorded to woman? But this vision came not
+      without help. Sometimes in our history we have known of a race being
+      deprived of their freedom, and so benumbed by their condition that they
+      desired nothing better, and so perforce waited for a movement for their
+      enfranchisement to come from without. It was not so in this case. Women
+      themselves cried out against their lot. They were not so enraptured with
+      the calm and quiet of their conventional life but that they felt the
+      stirrings of ambition for something different, and they did not fear to
+      raise their voice for more liberty.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Liberty!&rdquo; I echoed. &ldquo;Were they really deprived of liberty?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Yes, liberty to choose a calling that would suit their individual tastes
+      and satisfy their growing ambition.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Excuse me,&rdquo; I again interrupted, &ldquo;but were not these women who exhibited
+      so much restlessness unattached&mdash;that is, without many family ties?
+      And were not the great majority so contented in the shelter of home and so
+      engrossed in the care of husband and children that they were entire
+      strangers to any such disturbing fancies, or ambitions as you call them?
+      And, again, did not this large class of happy and busy wives and mothers
+      resent the action of those self-appointed liberators who were fighting for
+      an image of straw and crying themselves hoarse over imaginary wrongs?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      Zenith smiled again in that peculiar manner which told me, in the
+      pleasantest possible way, that she was perfectly sure I was on the losing
+      side, and with the smile she resumed:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Your questions are so familiar to one who has studied this subject that
+      they seem like another plagiarism, as it were, from our histories, but I
+      will give you fair answers.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;It is true that the early protests came from the solitary women,
+      unfortunately not a small class at that day, who, being without legal
+      protectors, felt the inequalities of the law and the unjust restraints put
+      upon their sex by society, but the truths they spoke came with added force
+      because of their intimate acquaintance with their needs.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;You are wrong in your supposition that the mass of women were so shallow
+      in mind as to know nothing of those longings for a fuller, more satisfying
+      life. Deep in their nature, planted by the Creator himself, was the same
+      lofty spirit with which man was endowed, and it could not be smothered by
+      marriage. Taking a husband should not, and in reality does not now, change
+      one&rsquo;s ambition or aim in life any more than taking a wife does, but in
+      those benighted days men, after marriage, could go forward with their
+      plans just as if nothing had happened, while the women were supposed to
+      forget their high hopes and aspirations and confine themselves entirely to
+      the trivial round of domestic duties. The men, however, were much mistaken
+      if they thought their wives were forgetting. They but bided their time.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;In your last question you are not altogether wrong, for there were a few
+      unthinking ones who joined with some of the men in ridiculing the whole
+      movement as unnecessary and foolish. But this class had not much
+      influence, and, in spite of such opposition as they offered, the reform
+      made steady progress.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;As a help to obtain what she was striving for, woman asked for the right
+      of suffrage, and thereupon had to undergo a fusillade of cheap criticism
+      from those who would not understand her, and who supposed she wanted this
+      privilege as an end and not as a means. Men were slow to grant the right
+      to vote, but after much discussion suffrage began to be allowed in matters
+      where the women were particularly interested. With the first concession,
+      however, men realized that the force of all their arguments was broken,
+      and before many years the full right was bestowed.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;And now, Thorwald, I am sure our good friends did not come so far from
+      home to hear me talk all the time. The rest of the subject concerns your
+      sex as much as mine, and you had better take up the story at this point.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Oh, no,&rdquo; replied Thorwald, &ldquo;I shall not take the narrative away from you
+      now, you may be sure, for what is left is just the part you can best
+      relate. I shall enjoy it as much as our friends from the earth. But I
+      propose that we hear the rest this afternoon, and that, in the meantime,
+      we go out for a drive.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;A drive,&rdquo; I asked, &ldquo;what do you drive?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;You shall see,&rdquo; Thorwald answered, as he stepped to the telephone. I
+      thought I should hear his message, but found the instrument had been
+      further improved. In the use of the telephone as I had known it, everybody
+      in the house was much surer of hearing what was said than the person at
+      the other end of the line was, but here the one addressed was the only one
+      to get a word of the communication.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Thorwald talked to us a short time about other matters, and then asked us
+      all to prepare to go out. When we reached the door the doctor and I were
+      surprised to see a beautiful and commodious carriage, to which were
+      attached, with the lightest possible harness, four of the handsomest
+      horses we had ever seen. There were, besides, two fine saddle-horses for
+      the children, who were to accompany us.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Thorwald drove, but without rein or whip, the horses being guided
+      perfectly and easily merely by word of mouth. The animals were also so
+      large and strong that they seemed to enjoy the sport as much as we did.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Do you mean to say,&rdquo; I inquired, &ldquo;that such a turnout as this can be had
+      for the asking?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Certainly. I just said through the telephone that I would like a carriage
+      for four persons, and two saddle-horses. The man who has the care of the
+      horses is a friend of mine who likes the work better than anything else.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;The horses appear to be well broken,&rdquo; the doctor remarked.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Broken,&rdquo; said Zenith, &ldquo;what do you mean by that, Doctor?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Why, it is an expression by which we mean that the high spirit with which
+      they were born has been subdued, making it easy to train them to
+      obedience.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;They must be wild, then,&rdquo; spoke Zenith again, &ldquo;and you are obliged to
+      tame them. The difference here is that the horses are born tame and do not
+      need breaking, and though they have plenty of spirit, as you see, they are
+      so intelligent and have such solidity of character that there is never any
+      danger that they will become unmanageable.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;That must be so,&rdquo; said I, &ldquo;or you could not be sure of being free from
+      accidents. But tell us, Thorwald, how it happens that we have not seen
+      others enjoying this delightful mode of traveling.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;It is not very singular that you have not seen any horses before,&rdquo; said
+      Thorwald. &ldquo;They have been entirely superseded in all kinds of business,
+      you remember, by mechanical power, and even for pleasure-riding most
+      people are too tender of heart to enjoy using them. They fear the horses
+      will be fatigued, and they do not like to see them straining themselves in
+      dragging a heavy load, when there is a force that has no feeling ready to
+      do it a great deal better.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But you can see these horses are not working very hard, and it is a good
+      thing for us sometimes to give up a little sentiment. There is some danger
+      that our sympathies may carry us too far. For instance, it is probably a
+      real kindness to these horses to give them a little work, if we are only
+      careful not to render their service galling to them; and yet there are
+      many people who never drive, on account of the feeling they have for the
+      beasts.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;It would be a good thing if we had more of that sentiment on the earth,&rdquo;
+       said the doctor.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      {Illustration: &ldquo;THE HORSES ARE BORN TAME"}
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <hr />
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2HCH0034" id="link2HCH0034"> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      CHAPTER XXXIV. THE EMANCIPATION OF MAN.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      After an exhilarating ride, in which the doctor and I, certainly, were not
+      troubled by any over-sensitiveness in regard to such robust horses, we
+      returned to the house and soon found ourselves seated in the music room
+      listening to one of their famous dramatists reciting his own words through
+      the phonograph. Next we had some music, and then a poem, from the same
+      prolific instrument.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      When this entertainment was over, and after lunch, Zenith, at our urgent
+      request, seconded by Thorwald&rsquo;s solicitation, resumed her narrative.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;We read,&rdquo; she began, &ldquo;that during the time when men were grudgingly
+      bestowing the right of suffrage on our sex, woman was making rapid strides
+      toward a position in society fitted to her talents and aspirations. One
+      occupation after another became available, and it was no longer a disgrace
+      or hardly a peculiarity for women to be earning their living instead of
+      depending for support on their fathers or brothers. This tended to create
+      in them a feeling of independence, and in many employments they had every
+      right to be proud of their attainments, for, with so little training, they
+      often surpassed the men at their own trades. Even then, however, some of
+      the old prejudice against the sex seemed to remain in force, since women
+      were discriminated against in the matter of wages. When they did the same
+      work and did it better, still their pay was less than that of men. But
+      this was a temporary injustice, which disappeared, as it was bound to do,
+      when woman had acquired her full freedom and had been in the field long
+      enough to prove her right and ability to stay.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;The work at which women excelled was that requiring a quick intelligence,
+      nimble fingers, and the faculty of easy adaptability. In the realm of
+      physical strength woman was not a competitor, but there was another field
+      in which she more than made up for that loss, and in which she early began
+      to show great native ability. That was in all pursuits demanding the
+      education of the mind. Here is where she was to look for the greatest of
+      her victories. Nature had endowed man with a superior strength of body and
+      muscle, but woman with a higher order of mind.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I must interrupt you here, Zenith,&rdquo; said the doctor. &ldquo;This is assuredly
+      an instance where your race differs materially from that of the earth, for
+      with us man has by nature the stronger mind.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;How do you know?&rdquo; asked Zenith.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;It has been proved so in all ages.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Yes, but does not the expression &lsquo;all ages&rsquo; include with you only the
+      ages in which man has been the ruling spirit, and woman has been kept down
+      and allowed but little opportunity to show the strength of her mental
+      faculties? You know our history takes in not only a period similar to that
+      covered by your whole career, but also other ages which we believe
+      correspond with the years yet to come for the inhabitants of the earth. It
+      has been during the latter era, a time which you have not yet seen, that
+      woman has proved the truth of my assertion.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I wish to make myself understood,&rdquo; said the doctor again. &ldquo;I am willing
+      to grant the equality of the sexes, as far as natural rights go; that is,
+      that every man and every woman ought to have the opportunity to develop
+      all their talents, untrammeled by any edict or convention of society.
+      Perhaps I would agree with you also in believing it would be better to
+      treat men and women alike, with open-hearted, sincere courtesy, and use
+      equal ceremony in showing respect to individuals of either sex. But it
+      seems to me that there is a vast difference between all that and your
+      latest position. There are many people of our generation on the earth, and
+      their number is rapidly increasing, who believe in the essential equality
+      of the sexes, but I never heard one put forward anything approaching the
+      claim you make, that woman was created with a higher order of mind than
+      man&mdash;I believe that was your expression; and this is why I say that
+      in this particular your race differs greatly from ours.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      To which Zenith replied:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I am not so sure of that, my dear doctor. It would seem hardly fair that
+      man should be given both physical and mental superiority. But please tell
+      me again why you think man has the stronger mind.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Because he has done the thinking of the world. The intellectual
+      achievements of woman, though occasionally brilliant, are not to be
+      compared with those of man. This is true in every department throughout
+      our history&mdash;in science and art, in religion, in literature, in
+      government, and in everything that I could name. It is hardly to the point
+      for you to say that woman would have done more if she had possessed a
+      fuller freedom; perhaps it is true, but it seems to me a matter of
+      conjecture. Neither is it a complete answer for you to say that in the
+      years to come woman, being wholly enfranchised, will revolutionize the
+      world by her unexpected powers. We can judge only by what she has done.
+      Excuse me, Zenith, for trying to uphold my point. It is rather
+      discouraging, when I can see by your face that you can demolish my
+      argument in a moment, whenever you choose to attempt it.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      We all laughed at the doctor&rsquo;s want of courage, and Zenith answered:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I beg your pardon; I am greatly at fault if I have any such expression in
+      my face. My confidence, if I have any, is not in any supposed ability I
+      may have in conversation, but in our experience here on Mars. Your history
+      matches ours so well up to your generation that I cannot but think the
+      likeness will continue; and if it does, then woman, in your near future,
+      will prove the truth of my statement. But before I proceed to tell you
+      what she has done in this world, let me ask you if your women have shown
+      any mental peculiarity which distinguishes them from men.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Yes,&rdquo; answered the doctor, &ldquo;their intuitive perceptions appear to be more
+      developed than those of men, probably because they use them more. A man
+      may reach a certain conclusion by a course of reasoning, while a woman
+      will often arrive at the same point much quicker by intuition. That is, a
+      man will tell you why he knows a thing, when a woman simply knows it
+      because she knows it.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Is that faculty akin to anything else with which you are acquainted?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Yes, we call it instinct in animals.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Is not the possession by woman of that quality a silent but powerful
+      suggestion to you of the fact that she was treated like an animal in the
+      dark days of her inthrallment?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I had not thought of it,&rdquo; returned the doctor, &ldquo;but it certainly may be
+      looked upon as a sad commentary on that rude age.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Do you consider this instinct an advantage to woman?&rdquo; asked Zenith.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Certainly; it is a great help to her, often serving with much success in
+      place of other faculties.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Would it be a valuable quality to add to man&rsquo;s mental equipment?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Yes, indeed, if he could retain all his other powers of mind.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Well, now let me ask you what would come to pass if the women of the
+      earth, possessed already of that quickness of thought, that ability to
+      discern the truth by direct apprehension, should, by thorough education
+      and many years of patient training, acquire the power of reasoning, the
+      judgment, the strength of mind, and all the intellectual powers now held
+      by your men?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;That is a very large &lsquo;if,&rsquo; and I cannot tell you what would happen,&rdquo;
+       answered the doctor.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I have only described,&rdquo; continued Zenith, &ldquo;what actually took place on
+      our planet. When the movement for giving woman a higher education began,
+      men looked at the subject just as you do now. Women were supposed to be of
+      inferior mental capacity, and it was thought to be a foolish thing to
+      attempt to educate them. &lsquo;Better educate the boys,&rsquo; men said, &lsquo;and let the
+      girls learn to cook and sew and to play the piano; that is all that will
+      ever be required of them.&rsquo; But, in spite of every discouragement, the
+      girls improved their opportunities so well that they were soon taking the
+      prizes away from the boys. Broadminded philanthropists of both sexes
+      endowed schools for them, and the highest institutions of learning opened
+      their doors to them. When the young women, almost from the start, began to
+      be successful in competitive contests in different departments of
+      scholarship, it was generally thought that such cases were exceptional and
+      would not be apt to be repeated very often. But this was a great mistake.
+      These instances proved to be no exception. It was found that woman&rsquo;s
+      facility of thought and native acuteness gave her an immense advantage
+      over the masculine mind in mastering any ordinary course of study. But
+      this was surface education. The reasoning power and the solidity of mind
+      for which men were distinguished in mature life came later, but they came.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;At first, only here and there a girl was fortunate enough to be offered a
+      liberal education; but when it was found that in almost every instance
+      they brought great credit on themselves, the number increased with
+      rapidity, until a college course was the customary and expected close of
+      almost every girl&rsquo;s school-days. For it was not the rich only that had
+      this advantage, since by this time education was free, being provided
+      either by the public or by universities richly endowed.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;All this time the boys seemed to find a great attraction in business and
+      the trades, and appeared to be willing that the girls should have a
+      monopoly of the higher education. One circumstance that greatly helped
+      this state of things was the extraordinary furor that prevailed just then
+      in the matter of manual training. This system had received more or less
+      attention from educators for many years, and it had been introduced into
+      schools as an addition to the regular course of study. That was a material
+      age. Men desired first of all to be practical, and the new method of
+      teaching, being eminently practical, became exceedingly popular with the
+      boys. The parents, not dreaming where it would end, and seeing the eager
+      interest with which their sons now crowded into the schools, encouraged
+      them in it.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Schools of technique, in which the literary branches were entirely
+      subordinate, sprang up on every hand, and two or three years spent in
+      these institutions took the place of a college course. The old
+      universities tried to meet the changing sentiment by paying more attention
+      to science, by giving the students a free choice of studies, and by
+      shortening the course when desired. But the mechanical idea in the new
+      education seemed to be the attraction. The boys were seized with a passion
+      for doing something with their hands, and their inventive faculties were
+      quickened, increasing in a remarkable degree their interest in their work
+      and studies.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;For a long time this movement was thought to be a great advance in
+      education. It was such an improvement on the old way, to find the young
+      men learning something useful, rather than wasting their time over the
+      dead languages and other things they would never need after finishing
+      school. And it must be acknowledged that all this industrial impulse was
+      of advantage to the world in its way. It multiplied labor-saving
+      machinery, added to the people&rsquo;s comforts in many ways, and increased the
+      general prosperity and well-being of society as far as material
+      improvements could do it.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But there was another side to the picture. So much time could not be
+      given to training the hand and hardening the muscle without detracting
+      from the attention due to the cultivation of the brain. To be sure, the
+      brain was active enough, but it was receiving a one-sided development,
+      which boded it no permanent good.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I have spoken at such length of this almost universal rage for technical
+      education, because it was a chief factor in turning the world over.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      We all smiled at this expression, and the doctor asked:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;How did it overturn the world?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;By aiding in taking the real brain work away from the men and giving it
+      to the women.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Did this actually happen?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Certainly it did. Not in a day, but in the process of time. How could it
+      be otherwise, when the women alone had been for many years going through
+      that long, patient mind-drilling which is the only preparation for a
+      thorough education? When the young men observed that a civil engineer, a
+      superintendent of a factory, or even a skilled mechanic could earn a
+      larger salary than a college graduate, it took away much of the incentive
+      for the old-fashioned education, and they were perfectly willing to see
+      their sisters take what they had not time for.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;And so it came about that the women began to crowd into the learned
+      professions; and, as there was not one which they could not adorn, the
+      prejudice against them soon wore off, and before many years they were
+      competing with men in all the grandest fields of human action. Even in the
+      matter of government woman&rsquo;s power was felt. Men were so engrossed in the
+      endeavor to develop to their fullest extent the material resources of the
+      planet that they became careless of the higher duties of citizenship,
+      especially after the women began to take control of things. They saw
+      affairs were well managed, and seemed to be relieved to have them taken
+      out of their hands, not dreaming that they were forging chains for
+      themselves which it would take long years to break. Although the world was
+      constantly growing better, it was far from a perfect age. Human nature was
+      still a synonym for selfishness, and with men and women measuring swords
+      on every intellectual battlefield a contest for supremacy was inevitable.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Man was absorbed in his chosen work, he was indifferent to public
+      affairs, and he was, in his way, proud of the position woman was taking in
+      the world, but he could not let her assume his place as acknowledged
+      leader without a struggle. He said he had given her her rights, and now
+      she wanted to deprive him of his rights.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;There was too much truth in this, for society had not reached a state
+      where the sexes could live in perfect equality. It was admitted by all
+      that there must be a head, both in the household and in the state, and it
+      long remained a question which should rule. But was there ever a struggle
+      of long continuance on the earth in which mind did not triumph at last?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I must answer in the negative,&rdquo; replied the doctor, &ldquo;although I perceive
+      it will help your argument.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Why, this is not an argument,&rdquo; continued Zenith. &ldquo;It is simply a story of
+      what has taken place on this planet. If you have any doubt of it, ask
+      Thorwald. You have known him longer than you have me, and, perhaps, would
+      have more confidence in what he would say. He ought to have told this part
+      of the story himself. I know you think I am exaggerating, because you see
+      I am making my sex come out ahead.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      Zenith said this in a playful manner, which showed she was as far as
+      possible from being offended, but the doctor pretended to take her
+      seriously, and replied with feeling:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Do forgive me, Zenith, for my thoughtless expression, and pray do not
+      stop in your narrative at this interesting point. I will tell you how I
+      came to use the word to which you object. While you were talking I was
+      thinking how one would be received on the earth, who should attempt an
+      argument to show the probability that anything like what you are telling
+      us should ever come to pass there.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Well, how would such an argument be received?&rdquo; asked Zenith.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;It would probably be passed by without any notice whatever, if you will
+      excuse me for telling the truth,&rdquo; answered the doctor. &ldquo;It certainly would
+      not be looked upon as serious, and I fear it would not even receive the
+      dignity of being called funny. Even the women would laugh feebly at the
+      extravagant notion, and think no more of it. But we were talking of Mars,
+      not of the earth, and I am exceedingly anxious to know how affairs
+      progressed here, though there is no likelihood that they will ever be
+      paralleled among us.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I would not be too sure, Doctor,&rdquo; spoke up Thorwald. &ldquo;Better wait till
+      Zenith is through.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I shall wait longer than that before I believe the earth will ever go
+      through such an experience. But now I am ready to listen.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;When I speak of woman assuming leadership,&rdquo; resumed Zenith, &ldquo;do not
+      misunderstand me. Although society was not perfect, still it was not a
+      gross age, and there was no return to the manners of those rude times when
+      women were cruelly treated and men took all the good in the world to
+      themselves. Oh, no, there was no absence of good manners. Women treated
+      men with the greatest courtesy, showing them every mark of outward
+      respect, and being much more polite to them than to each other. And it was
+      not all show, either; for, in spite of the fact that the men were
+      patronized unmercifully, the women really thought a great deal of them,
+      and often remarked to each other that the world would be a dull and
+      uninviting place without them. They admired their robust strength of body,
+      their brawny arms and well-trained hands, as well as their many excellent
+      qualities of mind; and they never tired of telling them in honeyed words
+      how necessary they were to their happiness.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;The women were very considerate also in the matter of laws. The rights of
+      the men were well looked after. To be sure, they were not allowed to vote
+      and hold office, but in their fortunate, happy condition it was incredible
+      that they should care about a little thing like that. Were they not
+      perfectly protected by the law, and did they not have as much to do
+      already as was good for them? The women argued that if the men were given
+      the right of suffrage it would only be the cranks who would avail
+      themselves of it, for the great mass of the men were perfectly satisfied
+      with their condition.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;A man was allowed the right of dower in his deceased wife&rsquo;s estate, and
+      he could hold property in his own right, even after marriage. His wife
+      could not even deed away her real estate without his consent. By this you
+      see how carefully the men were shielded from the liability of coming to
+      want.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;In matters of the heart it was not considered modest for a man to make a
+      direct proposal, but in reality the affair was in his hands, for no woman
+      could make any advance unless she received encouragement from the object
+      of her affections.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;How about the home?&rdquo; asked the doctor. &ldquo;Did man take the place of woman
+      there?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;He did whatever he was asked to do in the home. You must know that at
+      this time domestic duties were quite different from what they formerly
+      were. Men had not given up all their thought and time to handicraft for
+      nothing. The drudgery had pretty well disappeared under the full play of
+      the inventive faculties, so that the home duties were not exacting. What
+      work there was, was shared by the sexes, each doing that which was
+      appropriate. The management of the home was, of course, in the hands of
+      the women.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Was there no department in which the men were masters?&rdquo; inquired the
+      doctor.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Not one. They thought they were in full charge in their peculiar field of
+      labor, but here, as everywhere, the women dictated their terms when they
+      chose.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      The doctor was bound to learn all he could about this curious state of
+      things, and asked again:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;What effect did all this strain upon the mind have on woman&rsquo;s physical
+      nature? You have admitted that she was weaker in body than man, and it
+      seems to me she must have been ill prepared for the struggle you have
+      narrated. From the experience we have had in educating women, we believe
+      it is a positive injury to them to attempt to reach that high degree of
+      culture which is easily and safely compassed by men. Our idea is that
+      nature never intended that they should study much, for their minds are
+      really not any stronger than their bodies. Too much brain work has already
+      ruined the health of a good many girls, and when we left the earth the
+      reaction against the higher education of woman had fairly begun. For we
+      believe that her mental faculties can be developed only at the expense of
+      her physical powers, and that if she were to persist in such an abnormal
+      cultivation of her intellect it would be sure to result in the
+      deterioration of her offspring and disaster to the race. So, for the sake
+      of the generations unborn, we&mdash;that is, the male men of the earth&mdash;who
+      still retain our grip on affairs, have about decided to put a stop to this
+      foolish mania among our young women. We will probably pass laws, setting a
+      limit in the several branches of study beyond which girls shall not be
+      allowed to go, either at school or privately.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      We all laughed heartily at this idea, including the doctor himself, who
+      continued:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Well, what else can we do to stop them? Stop them we must, or we shall
+      soon become a race of weaklings and mental imbeciles.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      Thorwald had been getting more and more interested, as I could see by his
+      face, and now broke out with:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Doctor, you surprise me. I have acquired such a respect for your
+      intelligence that I can hardly believe you serious. If Zenith will excuse
+      me, I should like to answer your question. Hard study did not hurt our
+      young women, and it never hurts anyone. It is careless living and a
+      disregard of the laws of health that do the harm. Physical training was an
+      important part of the education of our women. They could never have
+      accomplished what they did without sound bodies, and it must be
+      unnecessary for me to say that the more highly cultured they became the
+      more our race improved. Learning never made poor mothers. Ignorance does
+      that. Do not keep education out of the home. Keep out folly, low desires,
+      sordid ambitions, uncultivated tastes, narrow-mindedness, envy, strife,
+      wastefulness, inordinate pleasures, and every evil thing that comes from
+      an empty, ignorant mind. Keep out the darkness; let in the light. It is
+      not God&rsquo;s way to give capacity and desire for noble things, and then shut
+      the door to their attainment.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Many thanks, Thorwald,&rdquo; exclaimed Zenith, &ldquo;for your good help. And now,
+      Doctor, will you ask anything further?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I must admit,&rdquo; answered the doctor, &ldquo;that your experience gives you more
+      knowledge of the subject than we possess, and perhaps we are wrong. Of
+      course, we want that to come to pass which will be best for our race. But
+      let me ask if the gentler sex, as we call them, did not lose, by such
+      superior culture, their gentleness and their charm. The masculine type of
+      woman is not at all popular with us.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;This question, Doctor,&rdquo; answered Zenith, &ldquo;shows that you have a poor
+      conception of our condition at that time. This great change in society had
+      been gradual, and I must remind you that by the time it was accomplished
+      the world was much improved in every way, although, as we have seen, it
+      was by no means perfect. In her treatment of man there was none of that
+      domineering spirit which you might expect; and the victory she had
+      achieved was never used harshly. Her reign, if firm, was mild. And woman
+      herself, in the general betterment of things, had improved, even in the
+      direction you mention. Instead of becoming less womanly, in her changed
+      condition, every admirable quality in her had ripened toward perfection,
+      while she had thrown off much that was disagreeable and unlovely in her
+      disposition. In personal appearance the advance had been remarkable. Being
+      relieved of the severe labor and sordid cares which were once her lot, and
+      with her mind set free by high culture and her artistic tastes developed,
+      nature asserted itself by making her truly a delight to the eye and a
+      comfort to the heart of mankind. Whatever charms she possessed in her old
+      life were now doubled, making her indeed a blessing to the world and
+      preparing her for the next great change, which came with the advent of the
+      present age.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;In spite of the sweetness and beauty surrounding them, did not men fret
+      at the firm hand that held them down?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;At first, yes. But as time went on it came to be looked upon so naturally
+      that it was hardly thought of as a thing which should not be.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;How long did such a state of things continue?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;It continued until our race had outgrown all such trivial things as
+      selfish ambition and personal strife, until our characters had ripened for
+      a higher service than the old world had ever dreamed of, and until love
+      reigned in our hearts, supreme and unquestionable.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;What makes the situation seem so strange to you is because it is so
+      contrary to your experience. Let me see if I cannot make it look more
+      reasonable to you by epitomizing our history on the subject in this way:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Our career is made up of three eras. The first was one of brute force,
+      when man ruled by strength of body and subdued the world to our use.
+      Everything weaker than himself, even woman, his natural helper, was made
+      to feel the power of his arm. This age lasted long, but its rigor slowly
+      passed away, and it merged gradually into the second era, which was one of
+      mind. Here, too, man thought to rule, claiming the leadership by right of
+      possession and natural endowment. But woman&rsquo;s sharpness of intellect was
+      more than a match for him when it was given full opportunity, and she won,
+      as we have seen, after a long struggle. The third and present era is a
+      spiritual one. In the realm of the spirit men and women are equally
+      endowed, and hence it is that in this age you find the two sexes living in
+      perfect equality.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Comparing the words you have spoken with what I have read of our history,
+      I conclude that the earth is now passing from the first to the second era.
+      The struggle is on. Soon your sex will be considering the question of the
+      emancipation of man. You have the sincere sympathy of both Thorwald and
+      myself, and that you may emerge from your trials as happily as we have
+      from ours is our heartfelt wish.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      Zenith closed, and the doctor was silent.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <hr />
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2HCH0035" id="link2HCH0035"> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      CHAPTER XXXV. AN EXALTED THEME.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      The doctor and I had not forgotten that Thorwald still held in store for
+      us a talk on the most important theme of all. We wondered why he did not
+      give it to us, as he had many opportunities in those days of quiet
+      pleasure. He seemed to take great delight in hearing from us everything we
+      chose to tell, asking numerous questions which showed a growing knowledge
+      of the earth and its inhabitants.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      It was the doctor who finally inquired when we were going to hear what he
+      had promised us.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I suppose I have been waiting,&rdquo; answered Thorwald, &ldquo;for you to ask for
+      it. I could listen to your talk a great deal longer with pleasure and
+      profit. It is astonishing how closely your history matches ours up to your
+      times. The period you have been describing to me as that in which you live
+      corresponds with a similar age here. It was a time of great activity and
+      rapid change, and one whose records make a deep impression on many of our
+      writers, judging from the attention they give to it. It was an enviable
+      time to live in, if you compare it with the previous ages, but chiefly on
+      account of the promise it contained of the glorious day to come.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Doctor, are you sure you desire to hear about the growth of Christianity
+      in this world and the blessings it has brought us?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Most certainly,&rdquo; answered my companion. &ldquo;I want to learn all I can of
+      your history and present condition, and, as religion seems to occupy a
+      chief place in both, anything you may say on the subject will be listened
+      to with delight.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      Perhaps Thorwald was a little disappointed because the doctor did not give
+      a more personal reason; but he failed to show it if he was, and, after
+      calling to Zenith to come and sit with us, he began:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Fair shines the sun on this fair world. So shines the sun on other fair
+      worlds. Its piercing rays dart out in all directions from the great
+      glowing mass, and as they fly outward they lose in brilliancy and
+      intensity every second. In eight minutes some of these rays are
+      intercepted by the earth and find there an atmosphere well adapted to
+      receive them. In twelve minutes some strike this world, and although they
+      are less powerful than those that fall on the earth, the conditions here
+      are favorable for their reception. At varying distances from the center
+      other rays find other planets as ready to welcome them, no doubt, as ours
+      are.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;As the sun is in the physical universe, so is the Sun of righteousness in
+      the domain of the spirit. Infinite in power, wisdom, and love, he comes
+      wherever there are souls to save, shedding light in every dark spot,
+      bringing life and hope and comfort, and lifting men out of the darkness of
+      sin up to a condition of peace and happiness. Many ages ago he came to
+      this planet, and started into life those forces which have brought us to
+      our present state. Then he came to the earth, and you are at this time
+      beginning to feel more intensely the impulse of his mission.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Your illustration is a forcible one,&rdquo; said the doctor, as Thorwald paused
+      a moment, &ldquo;and weakens my former position, which would make it necessary
+      for me to believe that all the rays of the sun, except the few that fall
+      on Mars and the earth, are lost. It seems to me now quite reasonable that
+      some do their beneficent work on other planets also.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Yes,&rdquo; answered Thorwald, &ldquo;whenever they are ready to receive them. And
+      now I hope to lead you to see that the same intelligence that made the sun
+      and gave to its rays such power has been present as a personal force in
+      this world, molding it to his use and raising up a people here for his
+      service and glory.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;In the perfect plan of that omniscient being the advent of the Savior
+      occurred at the most opportune moment. Deep in the heart of one nation,
+      firmly grounded in their nature by ages of discipline and suffering, lay
+      the belief in one only God. The other nations of the world, surfeited with
+      sinful pleasure and worn out with a vain pursuit of happiness, were ready
+      to abandon the gods of their imaginations. Some lofty souls among them,
+      following intently every prompting of their better nature, had developed
+      high characters, while of God&rsquo;s peculiar people many pure hearts waited,
+      with joyful expectancy, the coming of the promised Savior.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;He came, the lowly, patient one, and, although the world was made by him,
+      it knew him not. The greatest event in the history of the globe passed
+      almost without notice; but the seed was planted, and in God&rsquo;s own time the
+      growth began, which has filled our happy world with the perfect flower of
+      Christianity.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;The religion which Jesus taught aimed to save the race. It was universal,
+      not only as adapted to all nations, but as fitted to regenerate and
+      perfect the whole nature of man&mdash;body, mind, and soul. It would take
+      me too long to tell all the changes it wrought. It found the heart hard
+      and unfeeling, and made it tender and loving. It found men filled with
+      every evil passion and almost without a desire to be better, and it gave
+      them a longing to be free from sin and pure in heart. It found the race in
+      darkness and despair, and brought them hope and light and comfort. Above
+      all, it attacked the demon of selfishness and gave men the promise that in
+      time they should be entirely free from its power.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Slowly the truths of Christianity spread. The missionary spirit was born
+      and the gospel was carried to remote lands. It was ever God&rsquo;s way to work
+      through the agency of his creatures, whether these be brute forces or
+      intelligent beings. And so through imperfect men the perfect rule of life
+      made feeble progress. But as it was the work of the Spirit, there was
+      never any danger, even in the darkest ages, that the gospel would not
+      triumph over all the sin and degradation of the world, and lift men to a
+      higher plane.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;For a long period the truth lay buried beneath ignorance and
+      superstition. Then came an awakening, and men, with their minds more
+      enlightened and their consciences quickened, began to catch something of
+      the true spirit of the gospel. Christianity now became a dominant power.
+      Under its benign sway civilization advanced, intelligence spread, and
+      Christian nations outstripped all others and extended their power to every
+      part of the globe.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Soon the ameliorating influences of the gospel were felt on every hand.
+      Government began to be administered with more regard for the interest of
+      the governed, and men came to receive consideration simply because they
+      were men. All the aggravated forms of oppression ceased under the newborn
+      spirit of human brotherhood, a sentiment brought into the world by the
+      founder of Christianity.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;This brings us, my friends, up to that intense age of which I have spoken
+      before, and which you say you recognize as that corresponding with the
+      time in which you are living on the earth. Let me state briefly the
+      condition of some of our affairs of that period.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;The industrial world was in a ferment, as we have seen, and it was only
+      in a general and impersonal way that the Christian religion shed its
+      influence on the majority of the actors in that drama. Individuals, among
+      both employers and workmen, had good impulses and indulged them as much as
+      they could, and I am inclined to think this class was larger than most of
+      our writers admit. But we read that the greater part were moved chiefly by
+      motives of self-interest. Still, Christianity was a growing force among
+      them, and they could not entirely escape its influence. They were born
+      under its elevating power, and, even if they did not acknowledge its sway,
+      they were quite different men from those who lived before Jesus began to
+      preach the law of love. This remark will apply to all the people of that
+      day who were born under Christian skies, and yet acknowledged no personal
+      allegiance to the Savior. They were the unconscious heirs of a priceless
+      inheritance.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I just want to say, Thorwald,&rdquo; the doctor interrupted, &ldquo;that I can accept
+      that idea fully now, with respect to the people of the earth, though at
+      one time I should not have been willing to do so.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      Thorwald smiled his answer, and without further reply continued:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Let us look at the business situation. National and local governments had
+      begun to extend their powers beyond what had before been considered
+      legitimate. With one excuse or another they had taken out of private hands
+      many branches of business, and there was a strong tendency toward a
+      continuance of the policy. There was no difference in principle between
+      carrying the mails and carrying freight and passengers, or between giving
+      the people cheap water in their houses and furnishing them with cheap
+      coal.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;It was acknowledged that there were certain things which the city or
+      state could do better than private enterprise, and the difficulty was to
+      decide where to draw the line. While this uncertainty existed in the minds
+      of most people, there was a small but aggressive party who were in favor
+      of not drawing the line at all, but of putting everything into the hands
+      of the government. They would have had the people, in their corporate
+      capacity as a nation, raise and distribute the products of the soil, do
+      all the manufacturing and dispose of the goods to consumers, conduct all
+      the trades and professions, and, in fact, carry on every kind of business
+      necessary to the well-being of society.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      Of course, this woke up the doctor, whose practical mind could see nothing
+      attractive in such an arrangement as that, and he was moved to say:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I trust, Thorwald, that your ancestors did not adopt that crazy scheme as
+      an experimental step in their development. But I beg your pardon for using
+      such vigorous language without knowing whether they did or not.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      Thorwald smiled, as he answered:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;You are safe, Doctor. From actual experience we cannot tell what the
+      result of such a trial would be, for the vast majority of the writers, and
+      the people too, of the period were opposed to the plan, and no doubt with
+      good reason.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But I do not wonder that this idea had a fascination for some
+      right-minded people, in the promise it gave of doing away with the evils
+      arising from competition, to which I have before referred.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      Thorwald paused here, as if to invite one of us to speak, if he wanted to
+      do so. I accepted, by saying:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I wish you would tell us a little more on that subject. Competition is
+      said to be the life of trade with us, an accepted principle of honest
+      business. And yet you speak of it as something that should be done away
+      with.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;If you could know,&rdquo; answered Thorwald, &ldquo;how repugnant the idea is to us
+      of the present day, you would understand how truly you have voiced my
+      feelings.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I have no doubt,&rdquo; I said, &ldquo;that your experience has taught you much on
+      the subject that we do not know, but this is the way it looks from our
+      standpoint: There is born in us a passion for getting that which belongs
+      to others, or that which others are trying to get. In some of us this
+      instinct is developed more than in others, and some are unprincipled
+      enough to indulge it unjustly; but let me ask you if it is wrong to follow
+      the leadings of such a desire if we are strictly honest in all our
+      dealings.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;We might differ over the meaning of the phrase &lsquo;strictly honest,&rsquo; but I
+      will answer your question by saying it is certainly wrong.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But it seems to be a part of our very nature.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Do you offer that as a reason for its being right? I never heard you
+      claim that human nature was perfect,&rdquo; said Thorwald.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Then,&rdquo; I returned, &ldquo;in our present state, with which you are now pretty
+      well acquainted, is it not possible to carry the principles of
+      Christianity into business?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;To answer that as I should be obliged to do would make me appear to you
+      too arbitrary, and so perhaps I had better let you find your own answer in
+      the questions which I will ask you. Is not unselfishness one of the first
+      principles of Christianity? Now, the very essence of competition is a
+      regard for self-interest, with no room for thought about the interests of
+      others. In an ideal state of society the rules of life given by Jesus are
+      fully obeyed. In such a state, would a transaction be right where each
+      person was trying to do what was best for himself, although it might be to
+      the damage or loss of another? It might be called honest to own slaves,
+      and probably in the history of the earth a great many sincere Christian
+      people have owned them, but you have now reached that condition, I think,
+      where you can see it is wrong. So your way of doing business may be
+      honest, but in our more ideal state we see that it is not right. Our
+      remote ancestors, through the various stages of our development, did a
+      thousand things with clear consciences which we could not do now. I
+      understand your situation perfectly, and am sure your race will outgrow
+      its imperfections.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      I thanked Thorwald for his faith in us, and he resumed his narrative.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;In the age of which I am speaking,&rdquo; he said, &ldquo;the church was taking a
+      prominent place in the world, but had not assumed the leading position
+      which it afterward reached. Many nations were still without the light of
+      the gospel, and even in nominal Christian lands the actual supporters of
+      the church were in the minority. In the midst of much evil and many
+      discouragements the church was trying to regenerate society, but it had a
+      difficult task, partly on account of the great perversity of the human
+      heart, and partly because the church itself was not free from the
+      imperfections of the age. Its members represented all shades of
+      spirituality, the great majority of them having but a faint appreciation
+      of the glorious cause in which they had enlisted. They called themselves
+      soldiers of the cross, but were so burdened with the ordinary but more
+      pressing duties and occupations of life that they never dreamed of the
+      grandeur of the service, nor of the brilliant deeds of which the church
+      was soon to show itself capable.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;One chief hindrance to the growth of the church and to the spread of its
+      influence was the spirit of division within itself. Theoretically, all
+      believers, the world over, were one body, or church, but in point of fact
+      there were many churches, and in some particulars they were quite sharply
+      opposed to each other. This evil was in full force in that age, but there
+      were signs in the air that it was not to remain forever a stumbling-block
+      to the faith of the world.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;We are afflicted in the same way,&rdquo; said I, &ldquo;and some of us are hopeful
+      enough to look forward to a really united church. But many think it is a
+      part of our nature to differ, and are not able to see how all can ever
+      come to think alike. They say that if by a miracle all should be brought
+      into one church, and then left to their own inclinations, in a short time
+      there would be as many sects as there are now.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;And so there would,&rdquo; returned Thorwald, &ldquo;with your present ways. Your
+      imperfect nature must change under the softening influence of the gospel.
+      The differences that cause such trouble come from each individual&rsquo;s
+      selfish regard for his own opinion. All must learn not only to respect but
+      to embrace the opinions of each other when they are right opinions. Two
+      streams may run in parallel channels forever if each persists in following
+      strictly its own course. If one turns toward the other and the other turns
+      away, they will still be kept apart; but let each turn toward the other,
+      and how quickly they come together.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      I told Thorwald I could apply his illustration to our condition and we
+      would try to profit by it.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;One of the promising features of the religious situation,&rdquo; he continued,
+      &ldquo;was the good start the church had made in missionary work. In the zeal
+      with which this was taken up it was quite a new departure for the church,
+      for not long before this time good men believed that if God intended to
+      save the heathen he would do it without any help from man. But now success
+      had come in the work in sufficient measure to greatly encourage the
+      faithful souls engaged in it.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;When I speak of zeal, however, you must understand that this quality was
+      confined to a few people. Nearly all were only half-hearted Christians at
+      the best, doing something, to be sure, but not at all alive to the grand
+      opportunity of bringing the world to the feet of the Savior. Only here and
+      there was one found who was ready to give himself unselfishly to the work,
+      and the amount of money given to advance the cause of Christ, at home and
+      abroad, was small indeed compared to that spent in luxurious living and
+      hurtful indulgences.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;At the same time, it was an age of progress. The ordinary span of life
+      was long enough to show improvement in many ways, and men, seeing the
+      rapid advancement the world was making, took courage and looked forward
+      more confidently for the dawn of a brighter day. Religion was beginning to
+      be more of an every-day matter, and Christians were coming to a faint
+      realization of the real value of the gospel in its adaptation to all the
+      needs of men. Care for the body, better ways of living, and right conduct
+      toward others were all taught, as well as duty to God, and society began
+      to feel the benefit of such sensible teaching.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <hr />
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2HCH0036" id="link2HCH0036"> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      CHAPTER XXXVI. VANQUISHED AGAIN BY A VOICE.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      We all hoped Mona&rsquo;s affliction would prove temporary, but after a number
+      of days had passed, and no improvement appeared, Thorwald had an expert
+      anatomist come to the house and make an examination of the organs of her
+      throat. Although this was a new way in which to apply his skill, as the
+      Martians of that era were all physically perfect, he thought he might be
+      able to discover the cause of the trouble. The result of this experiment
+      was somewhat reassuring, for our scientist told us there was no defect of
+      organ or injury to any part, closing his report with the remark that the
+      case presented the greatest mystery of the kind he had ever encountered.
+      My companion, the doctor, now expressed his opinion, which coincided with
+      my own. This was, that Mona&rsquo;s trouble was occasioned by the shock to her
+      nervous system when she was plunged into the water, an element which she
+      so much dreaded. Our good friends, including the expert, were utterly
+      unable to understand the meaning of this theory. The remark that Zenith
+      made was:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Why, but for our friend, and others who pry into these things for us, we
+      would never know we had any nerves.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Happy will our race be,&rdquo; responded the doctor, &ldquo;when it arrives at the
+      same blissful ignorance.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Well,&rdquo; continued Zenith, &ldquo;if your opinion is the correct one, what have
+      we to hope for in Mona&rsquo;s case?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Unfortunately,&rdquo; answered the doctor, &ldquo;we have no experience to teach us
+      what to expect. We can only hope with you that she may speedily recover
+      her voice, which has seemed to form such a great part of her, and has
+      given us all so much delight.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      Perhaps it was imagination, but it seemed to me that Mona&rsquo;s behavior
+      toward me was more affectionate than it had formerly been. She had told me
+      before, to be sure, that she had loved me with all her heart, but in these
+      latter days she appeared to seek my society more and to show other
+      indications that her love was assuming more of the personal element for
+      which I had once so assiduously sought. But how was it with myself? This
+      question forced itself on me, one day, and I was a little startled to find
+      that an answer did not spring up spontaneously. Was it possible that my
+      love was becoming cold? I would not admit it. Just as the poor girl had
+      lost her chief attraction, should I turn from her and forget all my former
+      professions? On the first suspicion that such might possibly be my desire,
+      I said it was a wicked thought and I should never let it be true. But even
+      if I could not force my heart to remain faithful, no one should ever know
+      it but myself.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      A little more time elapsed and I discovered that, in spite of my brave
+      resolutions, Mona, silent, was filling less and less of my thoughts, and
+      that I was living on the precious memory of her lost voice. But this
+      discovery did not shake my determination ever to be to Mona herself a true
+      and faithful lover.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      At this juncture I was sitting alone, one morning, going over in my mind
+      the strange vicissitudes of my love affair, when, in a far-distant part of
+      the house, I heard a sound which thrilled me. I stopped all motion and
+      listened, my heart, however, trembling with the fear of a disappointment.
+      The music, for it was sweet music to me, came nearer, and now I could not
+      be mistaken. What joy filled my heart! How impossible to forget that
+      voice! I sat still and let it come. She evidently knew where I was and was
+      coming to find me, pouring forth her heart in the way she knew I adored.
+      Where now were my fears that my heart was growing cold toward her? Could
+      it be possible that I had ever doubted my affection for her since I first
+      heard her sing? Nearer it comes, filling my ears now with its familiar
+      melody, a song without words but full of meaning for one who hears aright.
+      She is guided true by the lamp of love and is now in the next room. I
+      cannot wait, but interrupt her song with this cry:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Come to me, my love, come quickly. I know your voice and the meaning of
+      your song, and my heart responds to yours.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      The strain continues, and soon a form appears in the doorway. I spring
+      from my seat and start to meet it, but fall back almost immediately in
+      confusion.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Oh, Avis,&rdquo; I exclaimed with vexation, &ldquo;I thought you were Mona again. I
+      supposed you were on the other side of the world.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I was, but I have come back to sing for you. I heard poor Mona had lost
+      her voice and I wanted to do what I could to fill her place. But I fear
+      you are not pleased with me.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;My dear friend,&rdquo; I replied, &ldquo;I beg your pardon for the abrupt manner in
+      which I received you. I thought Mona had suddenly recovered her voice and
+      was coming in the fullness of her joy to tell me about it, and you can
+      imagine my disappointment when I discovered my mistake. But now I assure
+      you I am glad to have your sympathy and delighted to know that you are to
+      be near me. Please go on with the song which I so rudely interrupted, and
+      let me hear your voice as often as possible. It is exceedingly fortunate
+      for me to have you here while Mona is recovering. Will you stay till she
+      can sing again, or do you think it is too selfish in me to make such a
+      request?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      Instead of answering me, Avis began to sing again, and in a twinkling I
+      had forgotten my question and everything else in the enjoyment of the
+      moment.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      I now wanted little to make me supremely happy. There was Mona herself,
+      with her exquisite beauty and friendly manner, and there was Mona&rsquo;s voice
+      in the mouth of one who liked me enough to go half around the world to
+      entertain me. And, if the truth must be told, my heart inclined more and
+      more toward the voice. This was a startling truth indeed when it first
+      fell upon me, and I fully determined that no one else should know it. Mona
+      should never discover that I loved her less because she could not sing,
+      and Avis should never know that her marvelous song was beginning to make
+      the singer dear to me.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Whenever I found myself alone I could think of nothing but this perplexing
+      subject. As I dwelt upon my situation, I told myself I must be careful,
+      and avoid getting into trouble. Mona was becoming more and more tender
+      toward me every day, and now Avis had come, unconsciously storming the
+      seat of my affections with Mona&rsquo;s own voice. I felt that I was in some
+      danger of embarrassing myself before the rest of my friends, and it
+      behooved me to simplify matters if possible.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      First, I must find out to a certainty just how I stood with Mona.
+      Notwithstanding the admission which I had been forced to make to myself, I
+      felt that it must be right for me to continue to devote myself to Mona,
+      even if my heart did not bound toward her as in the days of my exuberant
+      love. I should indeed be unworthy of her to give her up now. When I
+      considered my former depth of feeling, I fairly despised myself for
+      entertaining for a moment the possibility of her becoming less dear to me.
+      But, for all that, I knew deep in my heart that the charm which had held
+      me to her was gone, and I knew of no way to arrest and bring back my
+      wandering affections.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Still, it could not be right for me to let her know I was changing. What
+      would she think of me, and what opinion would Thorwald and Zenith have? I
+      must own that the latter consideration had a good deal of force with me,
+      for I did not want to lower myself and our whole race in their eyes.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      So I prepared the form of speech with which to address Mona again on the
+      old subject. It seemed strange that she should begin to grow fond of me
+      just as soon as my love began to cool, and I determined with all my will
+      never to let her know the state of my heart.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Not long after I had made this resolution, I was surprised to have the
+      doctor tell me he was sorry to see I was not so partial to Mona&rsquo;s society
+      since she had lost her voice. I do not remember what I said to him in
+      reply, but I know his remark set me thinking hard. Perhaps other observers
+      had noticed the same thing and were too considerate of my feelings to
+      speak of it. Surely, I must have matters put upon a better footing at
+      once.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      As for Mona, she was never happier in her life, if we could judge from her
+      actions. She had now learned to talk so well in her mute language that we
+      all found conversation with her comparatively easy. Her fascinating
+      manners made her interesting always, and in spite of her great loss she
+      was still an important part of the life of the house. I argued to myself
+      that my heart must be hard indeed if I could not continue to love her. To
+      me her behavior was characterized by such a peculiar sweetness that I knew
+      she was ready, on a word from me, to recall some of the harsh things she
+      had said and to own a love quite different in kind from her regard for
+      others.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The opportunity soon came to speak to her, and I embraced it. &ldquo;Mona,&rdquo; I
+      said, &ldquo;I want to make a little speech to you. First, let me ask you if I
+      can introduce a subject on which you have more than once stopped my mouth.
+      Perhaps you know what I mean.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Oh, yes,&rdquo; she replied, &ldquo;I remember it very well, and you may talk all you
+      please about it now. You must forgive me if I was unkind before and used
+      my voice to vex you. But I am surprised to have you bring up this topic.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Why?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Because I thought from your manner that you did not love me as you used
+      to.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      By this time the speech that I had prepared was all out of my head, and I
+      was wondering if it were possible that I had lost so much of my affection
+      for Mona that she had discovered it by a change in my manner. In reply to
+      her remark I said:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But such a thought has not made you unhappy, Mona, if I may judge from
+      your behavior. I have never seen you more cheerful and full of life.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;No,&rdquo; she responded, &ldquo;I think it has had the contrary effect. I was rather
+      relieved to find you were recovering from your foolishness, and I thought
+      we would now be able to live in peace, treating each other in a kind and
+      sensible manner. I am disappointed to find that you are still clinging to
+      the old idea, but I will not object to your saying all you please on the
+      subject, for I have my own reasons now for being gracious to you.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;That&rsquo;s the very thing I want to ask you about, Mona. I have noticed your
+      great kindness of late, and have supposed it came from the fact that you
+      were learning to love me in my way; that is, somewhat to the exclusion of
+      others. Isn&rsquo;t it that?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I think you will not be pained when I say you have had a wrong
+      impression.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Why do you think such a discovery will not pain me?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Because I am sure you do not care for me now in the same way as before.
+      It was my voice that inthralled you. In all this interview you have not
+      once said you love me, and you know at one time you could say nothing
+      else. But let me tell you why I have shown an extra tenderness toward you
+      recently. It was because I feared you would think I blamed you for my
+      misfortune. I wanted to let you know I had not the least unkind feeling
+      and that, in spite of the loss of my voice, I was as happy and contented
+      as ever.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Well, after all, you do love me a little, do you not, Mona?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Why, of course I do, just as much as ever. And now let us go right along
+      and be nice to each other. We will love each other and love everybody else
+      just the same, and you must promise not to look disturbed any more when I
+      am talking with Foedric; but you have been very good about that of late.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I will promise,&rdquo; I answered; &ldquo;but what will you do if you find I am
+      loving another person more than you?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Oh, I cannot understand what you mean by loving more and loving less. It
+      is a strange idea to me, and I hope I shall never get accustomed to it. My
+      way is to love everybody with all my heart, and that&rsquo;s an end of it. Don&rsquo;t
+      you see in that way I escape all the worry and vexation which you seem to
+      have in the matter? As to your loving another, you will pardon me if I say
+      it will be a great relief to me for you to do so. I have not been used to
+      being the sole recipient of any person&rsquo;s affection, and I shall rejoice to
+      be freed from the responsibility. If you have thought me happy heretofore,
+      you will now be astonished at my sprightliness. I suppose you refer to
+      Antonia. She is a lovely girl, and&mdash;&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Allow me,&rdquo; I interrupted; but before I could go on with my denial that
+      voice again fell on my ears&mdash;so distant and low that I held my breath
+      to listen. At first Mona did not hear it, but it soon increased in volume;
+      and now, as the sweet sounds came pouring upon us, my companion saw how I
+      was affected, and said in her sign language:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Oh, I was mistaken. Antonia is not the one.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      My heart was now all aflame, and, with Mona by my side and gazing into my
+      glowing face, I almost forgot her presence in the approach of one whose
+      song had such power. Was she old? Music like that is never old. Why should
+      not my heart go out to her? She was still beautiful and not so old as I
+      had supposed. And then, of course, people in that advanced condition, did
+      not wear out in a few years as they did on the earth. As for her size, she
+      was rather small for a Martian, and I, living under new conditions, would
+      certainly take a start before many days, and no doubt become as large as
+      Foedric, almost.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      These ingenuous sentiments came to me with the sweet accents of that
+      melodious song, and when Avis appeared I had great difficulty to keep from
+      making some foolish exhibition of my feelings.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      At my next sober moment, that is, when I was by myself, and out of hearing
+      of that intoxicating music, it was very easy for me to realize my
+      ridiculous situation, but not so easy to tell how I was to escape from it.
+      As to my relations with Mona herself, I was greatly relieved by our last
+      conversation. I certainly need no longer feel obliged to tie my vagrant
+      heart to her. She would not miss it if it never once showed itself again,
+      but how could I hope to preserve any sort of character in the eyes of my
+      other friends? What sport the doctor would make of me if he knew how I
+      felt toward Avis. He little thought that this was the daughter of Mars
+      most likely to bring me to my knees.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      And the doctor would have good reason for whatever enjoyment he might have
+      at my expense, for I felt at first that I did not deserve any sympathy.
+      When away from the powerful influence of that voice I was myself, and
+      could see everything in its true perspective, but it is difficult to
+      describe the change that came over me as soon as those entrancing notes
+      fell upon my ear. The music sent great waves of emotion through my being,
+      the storm center generally appearing to be the seat of my affections. My
+      heart would beat fast, going out toward the singer in sympathy and love.
+      The doubts of propriety belonging to my sane moments&mdash;hesitation,
+      argument, uncertainty&mdash;all went in a flash, and I was almost ready to
+      throw myself before her and proclaim my love without shame or
+      embarrassment. At such times I felt that I could hold my head up in view
+      of all the inhabitants of Mars and prove to them that I was not fickle,
+      but as steadfast as constancy itself in following always one and the same
+      attraction. Was I not as true to the best that was in me, when my heart
+      was ravished by the voice of Avis, as I was when I had loved Mona so
+      tenderly for the same sweet charm?
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      As day followed day in this delightful home, it was the society of Avis
+      which I continually sought, and I was never quite happy except in her
+      presence, or, at least, within hearing distance of her voice. And it was
+      not long before the constant association of Avis with the music I loved so
+      well began, even when I was not listening to her, to draw my affections
+      toward one who, at will, could exert such power over me.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Mona was still herself, the same friendly, joyous creature as ever, but
+      the knowledge that I could never gain her undivided affection helped to
+      cure my infatuation. And now, with my heart free, why should I not love
+      Avis? The mere fact that she was an inhabitant of Mars proved that she was
+      far too good for me, but I could see by the example of Foedric and Antonia
+      that Avis would never, in consequence of her high development, have any
+      scruples against loving one person more than others.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      When I had fully persuaded myself that I was perfectly consistent in my
+      present course, I became quite anxious to know what others would think of
+      me. But I was too much afraid of the doctor&rsquo;s criticism to confide my
+      secret to him. I must try one of the Martians, whose high breeding and
+      true courtesy would not permit them to make light of one&rsquo;s feelings on so
+      serious a subject.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      So it was to Zenith that I went for sympathy. She had been more than kind
+      to me, and it is remarkable how easy and perfectly at home she made me
+      feel in her company.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Zenith,&rdquo; I began, &ldquo;I want to consult you on a delicate subject, and I
+      will first ask you a rather abrupt question. Will you give us your
+      permission to take Avis back to the earth with us?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      A Martian never loses self-possession and is never at a loss what to say
+      to the most unexpected proposition.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Well, that is abrupt,&rdquo; Zenith quickly responded. &ldquo;Do you know, Thorwald
+      and I were talking only this morning about your apparent fondness for the
+      society of Avis. Are you forgetting Mona?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      This was getting into the subject faster than I had intended, and I
+      determined to take my time, so I said:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Zenith, this province must be the New England of Mars, by the way you
+      evade my question and ask another.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But you wouldn&rsquo;t expect me to answer such a question offhand. You see, it
+      contains several new ideas. First, I didn&rsquo;t know you thought of returning
+      to the earth. Then I am surprised that you should want to take anybody
+      with you. And, finally, I am more surprised that you should choose Avis
+      rather than Mona. Now that I have explained so fully, may I not ask you
+      again if this means that you are forgetting Mona?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Mona is not able to sing for me,&rdquo; I said.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;And do your ideas of what is right allow you to become indifferent to her
+      as soon as she loses one of her attractions? Here her misfortune would
+      tend to make her only more dear to one who really loved her.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      To which I made haste to answer:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I am proud to tell you, Zenith, that such sentiments prevail on the
+      earth, too, and I have been trying hard to hold them in my own breast. But
+      in living with you I am learning to be honest, and it would not be right
+      for me to deny that Mona&rsquo;s chief charm for me is gone from her, and is in
+      the possession of another. The voice of Avis has the same power over me
+      that Mona&rsquo;s formerly had, and shall I fight against my growing fondness
+      for Avis?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Is your race so little developed, then,&rdquo; asked Zenith, &ldquo;that your ears
+      are the only avenue to your hearts?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      Before I could answer, Mona herself came bounding into the room, and
+      Zenith continued:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;There&rsquo;s the poor child now. How can you be so unkind to her?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Who&rsquo;s unkind to me?&rdquo; asked Mona in her sign language.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Zenith thinks I am,&rdquo; I answered.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Why, you are mistaken, Zenith; he is just the opposite. We have always
+      loved each other, and I think more of him than ever since I lost my voice,
+      and he has ceased making serious speeches to me that I can&rsquo;t understand. I
+      wish you could see how he enjoys hearing Avis sing.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      In this way Mona proved to Zenith that she was not heart-broken. I was
+      going to explain the matter myself, but was glad to have Mona take it out
+      of my hands.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The most difficult task yet remained. I must tell Avis how affairs stood;
+      and yet, was it the proper thing for me to do? I wondered how the delicate
+      subject of making love was handled in Mars, where the two sexes were
+      perfectly equal. Which one was to make the advances? The matter is simple
+      enough on the earth, where women are inferior and dependent. Of course,
+      they must smother their own feelings and wait to be discovered, while the
+      men can make their selection, and if they do not succeed at first can
+      simply try again. That is entirely proper, and everybody knows just what
+      to do; but here things are probably different. I don&rsquo;t want to make a
+      failure in this case, as I did with Mona, not knowing the customs of the
+      moon-dwellers. Perhaps my best way will be to try a little coquetry and
+      pretend I do not care for her nor her singing. That may draw her on to
+      make some avowal to me.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      I had gone so far in my deliberations, when I was interrupted by the
+      doctor, who called to ask if I did not want to go out with him. I
+      consented reluctantly, as I preferred to go on with my thinking till I
+      could come to some decision. But the doctor had a purpose in taking me
+      out, and, as soon as a good opportunity presented itself, he said,
+      inquiringly:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;You find Avis a pretty good singer?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Excellent.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;And good company?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Excellent company. Why?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Oh, nothing; only I thought you were neglecting another friend.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Why, Mona doesn&rsquo;t care for me, and Avis does, or, at least, I think she
+      does.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Do you mean by this,&rdquo; inquired the doctor, &ldquo;that you have transferred to
+      Avis the personal interest you had in Mona?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Have you anything to say in disparagement of Avis?&rdquo; I asked.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Certainly not. I have a high respect for her. But there is one other
+      plain question I would like to ask you, in view of your rather erratic
+      behavior.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Well, what is it? I&rsquo;m dying to know.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;It is this. What are you going to do with Margaret?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Margaret? Oh, yes, I forgot about Margaret. That is something else I have
+      got to think over.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      That night, as I was falling asleep, the same sweet, familiar music came
+      to me from a distant part of the house. Half-thinking and half-dreaming, I
+      let my mind drift where it would. The sensation received through my ears
+      was so delicious and so satisfying that I wondered why I could not rest in
+      it entirely and not think of the singer; but that was impossible. The
+      notes penetrated from my brain down to the region of my heart. I thought
+      of Margaret, but Margaret could not sing like that. Mona could not, now;
+      no one but Avis. Oh, how I loved her for it! I remembered how nice
+      Margaret was, and how much I had once thought of her; but as for loving
+      her now, with this music of Mars in my ears, why, I simply couldn&rsquo;t try to
+      do it. At last Margaret, Mona, Avis, all became jumbled up in my chaotic
+      mind, and I thought they were one superb woman, and I loved her. The
+      conceit was worthy the colossal selfishness of a dreamer. The essence of
+      three worlds was mine. The earth, the moon, and Mars had all given me
+      their best. And she could sing. The thought was soothing. I was asleep.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <hr />
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2HCH0037" id="link2HCH0037"> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      CHAPTER XXXVII. UNTIL THE DAY BREAK.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      The events related in the foregoing chapter were interesting to us all, in
+      one way and another, but the doctor and I felt that the real purpose of
+      our visit to Mars, if anything so unpremeditated could be said to have a
+      purpose, was to learn all we could of the planet, and especially of its
+      people. And as we did not know how soon our visit might be brought to a
+      close, we lost no time in urging Thorwald to continue his instruction
+      whenever he could find it convenient. Thorwald&rsquo;s answer to this was, that
+      he hoped nothing would occur to hasten our departure, but that it was his
+      convenience to heed at any time our wishes, and he would resume his talk
+      as soon as we pleased. So it was not long before we were seated, and
+      Thorwald began again as follows:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;It is now my privilege to speak to you, my friends, of that part of our
+      history which differs from anything you have experienced, and I anticipate
+      much pleasure in doing so. I must say again that we have found the
+      parallel remarkably close between your career and ours up to the time when
+      you left the earth.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;We have indeed,&rdquo; remarked the doctor, &ldquo;and that makes us all the more
+      anxious to learn what came to you next and how you escaped the threatening
+      storms.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;There were certainly many clouds upon our horizon at that day,&rdquo; resumed
+      Thorwald. &ldquo;The people were full of unrest. The worst part wanted to
+      replace organized society with anarchy, but this extreme party never
+      succeeded in their purpose. The world had progressed too far for that.
+      There were too many churches and schools and printing presses. The
+      anarchists should have begun their efforts in a ruder age.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;There was more danger from the jealousies and mischievous tendencies
+      among the great industrial class, because their number was so large. But
+      even here the same influences which saved us from the nihilist had their
+      effect. As time went on, men came to think more, and the result of this
+      was that both conscience and reason began to govern men&rsquo;s actions.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;The workmen had looked about them and had seen many corporations
+      increasing in wealth and power, and individuals rolling up enormous
+      fortunes, and they had felt that they were not getting a fair share of the
+      money their labor was earning. But then a little thought enabled them to
+      realize that these evidences of great prosperity came from the successful
+      few, while a large proportion of all business ventures were failures; and
+      in these the employees received more of the profits than the owners did.
+      Then the wage-earners had the benefit of much of the money accumulated in
+      large fortunes, by having the free use of libraries, trade schools,
+      reading rooms, and an increasing number of philanthropic institutions,
+      which were equipped and endowed by the rich. Such a use of wealth became
+      an ordinary thing, so that it was not a matter of wonder and wide notice
+      when a man spent a liberal share of his fortune in educational or other
+      humanitarian work.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;All this had a great effect on the mass of the people, gradually raising
+      the average of character, and placing before the mind a higher incentive
+      for right living. Ignorance had always been to the race a twin enemy with
+      sin, and the growth of intelligence meant the general elevation of
+      mankind.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Another chief item in the reformation of men in that age of improvement
+      was the general abandonment of the drinking habit. You will understand, of
+      course, that the mainspring of all these reforms was the gospel of Christ,
+      under which man&rsquo;s spiritual nature was gradually developing. But, at the
+      same time, there was always a secondary cause, and through human
+      instrumentality such blessings came to us. What do you suppose brought
+      about the overthrow of intemperance?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I suspect,&rdquo; answered the doctor, with a glance at our hostess, &ldquo;it was
+      the growing influence of woman, who, by that time, according to Zenith&rsquo;s
+      account, ought to be taking quite a leading position.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Doctor,&rdquo; said Thorwald, &ldquo;you take in the situation completely. If there
+      was one thing woman had always been sure she could do, it was the breaking
+      up of the liquor traffic. In the old days, when she had been treated as
+      man&rsquo;s inferior, she had declared that, if she had the power, she would
+      stamp out the manufacture and sale of intoxicating drinks, and make it
+      impossible for men to get them at any price. And when power came to her I
+      am glad to say she proved that her boast had not been in vain. Not that
+      she fulfilled her threat in any such dramatic way as she had had in mind,
+      but the end was accomplished just as surely by the force of her high
+      character, working itself out in many ways. It was chiefly a crusade of
+      education. The children of one generation after another were taught the
+      value of right habits and purity of body, and in time the change was
+      wrought, a victory for woman more precious to the race than any army of
+      mailed warriors had ever won.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;With temperance came better manners, more self-respect, a kinder spirit,
+      a more tender care for others, and, along with these things, better hearts
+      and better homes.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      As Thorwald had invited us to interrupt him as often as we pleased, I took
+      advantage of a pause here by saying:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I see, Thorwald, you are making the people all too good to leave any fear
+      in the mind of a social convulsion, but I would like to ask how politics
+      were smoothed out. During that period of industrial war, which you
+      described to us, you said the workingmen and ignorant classes found they
+      were in the majority and were beginning to use their power unjustly. We
+      are threatened in a similar way on the earth at this time, and I am
+      anxious to know how the cloud in your sky was dispersed.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I will endeavor to make it plain to you,&rdquo; replied Thorwald, &ldquo;but you must
+      remember I am trying to condense the history of a great many years into as
+      few words as possible. It was found that there had been a mistake in
+      making the right of suffrage universal without universal education, and
+      that the ignorant and vicious were so numerous as to make the average
+      unsafe to rely upon in a crisis. It was a difficult matter to remedy this
+      state of things. Some attempts were made from time to time to confine the
+      privilege of citizenship to the intelligent part of the community, but
+      many of the best people thought this was taking the wrong course, and that
+      the only safe cure was in educating all classes up to a full appreciation
+      of their higher duties. There was a growing faith, the world over, in the
+      virtue of the people at large, and wherever they had been given full power
+      to govern themselves, or had taken it from their former rulers, they were
+      exceedingly jealous of any abridgment of this power.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Here, again, we see the effects of the beneficent influence of woman. The
+      more her dominion increased the more was intelligence diffused, and
+      although she yielded to the subtle temptation of power and reigned alone
+      for a while, yet the world had, on the whole, great cause to be thankful
+      for her signal advancement. With education made compulsory, and with
+      society brought gradually under the sway of woman&rsquo;s finer nature and more
+      lofty ideals, communities were molded to a higher form of life, and saved
+      from the evils which threatened them in their former state.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Let me tell you briefly how war was banished from our world, that monster
+      whose hideous presence would be so utterly out of place here now. At the
+      beginning of the age I am describing, the foremost nations kept powerful
+      armies and navies, all ready for their deadly work. Wars were frequent and
+      bloody. The best of the young men in nearly every land were forced to bear
+      arms and fight for their country at the command of their rulers, while the
+      conscience of mankind was dulled and stunted by the spectacle or constant
+      menace of war.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;The lives of millions of men were actually in the hands of a few
+      irresponsible autocrats, who were possessed with exaggerated or false
+      notions of national honor. Now came a time when the world stood hushed, as
+      it were, on the eve of a mighty conflict. Every nation had increased its
+      army and strengthened its defenses to the utmost limit. Every day
+      threatened to see the match lighted&mdash;a hasty word, a fancied insult,
+      any trivial thing, which would bring on the struggle and put the world in
+      mourning. And what was it all for? No one could tell. It seemed to be
+      nothing but the selfish ambition of the rulers and their innate love for
+      supremacy. As for the real actors, those who were to do the actual
+      fighting, they had no love for their work. However it may have been in the
+      past, the world was older now and better, and war was abhorred with all
+      its accompaniments both by the army and by the people at large.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;It was a time of great inventions, looking not only to the saving of life
+      but to its destruction. Even while the nations were standing, arms in
+      hand, waiting for the signal to begin the conflict, their weapons were
+      rendered useless and the strength of their fortresses reduced to nothing
+      by the working of one man&rsquo;s brain. Yes, by a single invention, inspired by
+      God for the good of his creation, inhuman war received its death-blow and
+      the world obtained a mighty impulse toward its final goal.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      The doctor became somewhat excited by these words and asked with
+      eagerness:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;What wonderful invention was that?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;The perfection of the air ship,&rdquo; Thorwald replied, &ldquo;by which any required
+      weight could be taken into the air, and carried with ease and certainty by
+      currents of air or force of gravity.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;You no doubt see what such an invention implies. It means that powerful
+      explosives could be dropped from the sky in quantities sufficient to
+      annihilate an army or utterly destroy a city. Experiments were made, and
+      engineers learned, with surprising rapidity, to cast the bombs with great
+      accuracy from any desired height.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;At once every government hastened to build air ships and manufacture
+      explosives. There seemed to be no limit in sight to the production of
+      either, and soon power enough was stored in this way to extinguish half
+      the life of the world, when rightly applied. The entire system of warfare
+      was revolutionized; but, while all were preparing for offensive
+      operations, there appeared to be no adequate plan of defense under the new
+      system. It therefore became apparent that, should the threatening cloud
+      burst, it would be difficult to imagine the extent of the destruction it
+      would bring. This feeling, which filled all hearts with dread, delayed the
+      catastrophe, for no one was ready to assume such an immense
+      responsibility. So matters stood for a long time, the fear of the dire
+      consequences preventing an outbreak, while the sentiment against war was
+      rapidly growing. In nations of the highest civilization, where the
+      Christian character of the people was reflected in the government, some
+      serious disputes had been settled by arbitration, and every time this
+      humane method was adopted a precedent was created which made war appear
+      more and more useless and barbarous. The world was now becoming so much
+      changed that such a good example was contagious, and the result was that
+      the aerial warships and the deadly dynamite did not have to be used.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Among the legends of the time is the improbable one that, when these air
+      fleets were at their highest point of efficiency, and the world was
+      literally lying at their mercy, one hot-headed young monarch, whose
+      selfish pride had stolen away his senses, gave the command to fire the
+      train which would ram destruction upon his foes, when, wonder of wonders,
+      not a man would obey his order. Angered beyond measure by such an unwonted
+      experience, he seized with his own hand the electric apparatus arranged to
+      give the fatal spark, but with such violence and indiscretion that,
+      instead of sending the current on its appointed mission, it turned from
+      its course and destroyed the angry youth himself.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;This is undoubtedly a myth, but the rest that I have told you is
+      well-authenticated history.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;The abolition of war seems sudden, but it never would have taken place as
+      it did had not the people been prepared for it by a radical change in
+      their character. For many years the spirit of peace had been quietly at
+      work on the heart of mankind, until it came to be realized that warfare
+      and strife, whether between individuals or nations, were bound to die away
+      under the growing appreciation for the higher law.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;It was one of the supreme days in the history of Mars, when grim war
+      passed and became but a memory. The effect was instantaneous. At once the
+      people of the different nations were drawn together to their mutual
+      advantage. Commerce became world-wide, one language was adopted, and the
+      arts of peace flourished as never before. Men began to feel that they were
+      one family, national distinctions were made little of, and the world
+      drifted gradually toward universal brotherhood.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I must now draw your attention to the work of the church and show you how
+      it was carrying out its great commission. First, to prepare for the
+      highest usefulness, it quite early freed itself from the sectarian spirit.
+      As the magnitude of its mission became more apparent the points of
+      difference between the denominations grew constantly smaller, and, in
+      time, all Christians found themselves united on the fundamental truths of
+      the gospel, and working together to bring the world to the light. With
+      this union fully accomplished, Christianity became more than ever the
+      dominant force in the world, and the church the chief center of all work
+      looking to the elevation of the race.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;The progress of the world was along the line of the brotherhood of man,
+      and that doctrine was the church&rsquo;s own Christianity taught the true
+      socialism, which, however, could not be realized till the heart had lost
+      its selfishness, and each one had learned to care for the interests of his
+      neighbor. Although such a condition was not in sight at that day, there
+      was a mighty awakening which set the current of men&rsquo;s thoughts and desires
+      strongly in the right direction.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Do you call yourselves socialists now?&rdquo; asked the doctor.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;No,&rdquo; answered Thorwald, &ldquo;but you can call us so, if you please. It is a
+      good word, but our condition is much more perfect, since the coming of the
+      kingdom of God in every heart, than any dream of socialism, in the olden
+      time, ever contemplated.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I was speaking of the increasing power of religion. Where the church had
+      been weak and dependent on a few half-earnest, timid believers, it was now
+      strong and active, and supported by all the self-respecting portion of
+      society. Instead of being forced to beg for its meager subsistence, it now
+      received in abundance the money that was poured out voluntarily. Men did
+      not wait for death, but gave their fortunes away during their lives, and
+      enjoyed the blessing which followed. The church went down to the people,
+      and in so doing lifted them up to itself. It showed them how to make much
+      of life, gave them instruction and recreation and social enjoyment, fed
+      the hungry, clothed the naked, and visited those in trouble. It
+      strengthened family and neighborhood ties, encouraged peace and
+      good-fellowship, and taught men to love each other as a preparation for
+      loving God.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;A local church of that day was not a feeble body of men and women, with
+      an overworked and underpaid man at their head, who was expected to do all
+      the varied work required, except what he could get done by a small number
+      of his members, themselves worn out with the labor and business of life.
+      No, I will acquaint you with a then modern church. It was an institution
+      rich in resources and men, male and female, reaching out into the
+      community in every direction, helping the people in every imaginable way
+      to live as well as preparing them to die, a beauty and a joy to all. It
+      appealed to every side of man&rsquo;s nature, first supplying physical wants,
+      not by indiscriminate largess of money, but by teaching sobriety,
+      industry, and thrift as virtues necessary to a rounded character. Such
+      teaching was not confined to pulpit precepts, but there was no lack of
+      good souls who took delight in going into the homes of the people and
+      showing them by example the best ways of living, and how to make even the
+      homeliest duties a loving and beautiful service. To provide further for
+      the needs of the body, there were gymnasiums, bath-houses, swimming
+      schools, playgrounds, riding schools, and the like.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;More numerous still were the means offered to meet the intellectual and
+      social desires&mdash;club-houses, lecture halls, conservatories, museums,
+      picture galleries, libraries, reading rooms, observatories, kindergartens,
+      manual training and trade schools, besides games and sports, spectacular
+      and dramatic exhibitions of a high order, and many other things, designed
+      to compete with attractions of a debasing character.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Then, rising high over all, both in outward form and inward grace, was
+      the church edifice itself, set apart and strictly preserved for its sacred
+      purpose. In the noble lines of its architecture, in the beauty of its
+      artistic adornment, and in the character of its service, intellectual and
+      musical, it represented the highest culture of the age. The structure
+      included under its roof accommodations for the various departments of
+      religious work, and its doors were always open, inviting every passer-by
+      to enter and seek for spiritual refreshment.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Imagine, if you can, an institution employing all these agencies, every
+      one of them fully equipped and manned, and with streams of money flowing
+      in to their support; no barren appeals from the pulpit for funds to pay
+      expenses, and no auctioneer&rsquo;s hammer profaning the sacred aisles.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;This was the church of the period. Can you wonder that God&rsquo;s rich
+      blessing was on such work and that his kingdom made rapid progress? There
+      was an ever-increasing number of God&rsquo;s ministers, men and women, imbued
+      with Christ&rsquo;s own spirit, working in all these various activities to
+      elevate and save their kind.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;In the life of the people there was nothing in all the world that so
+      surrounded them as the church. They could not escape from its influence.
+      It touched them from one side or from another, calling upon them, by every
+      manner of appeal, to lead less sordid lives, and seek the highest good.
+      Whereas in the olden time they seemed to be set in the midst of evil
+      influences, which imperceptibly molded their characters and too often
+      wrecked their lives, their condition was so changed that their environment
+      was now a help and not a hindrance, and so the gospel found easy entrance
+      to their hearts and lives.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;This much the church had done by giving its money and itself, with
+      new-born zeal, to the work of the Master. And from this time you may be
+      sure its victories were rapid and notable.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;While this great change in society had been going on among nominal
+      Christian people, hand in hand had gone the work of the gospel in heathen
+      lands. The faster the money was poured out for the church at home, the
+      more plentifully it was offered for the foreign field. Sometimes it was
+      feared there would be more money than men and women for the work. Then the
+      laborers would come forward in such numbers that the money would be
+      exhausted, which, however, gave no concern, for it was sure to come again
+      as soon as needed. Where one missionary, in the former days, had had the
+      courage to take up the work, now thousands sprang forward and with eager
+      hearts went into the field.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Going to the heathen in the same spirit of brotherly love and helpfulness
+      which had been so successful at home, the church was almost overwhelmed
+      with the happy results. One people after another threw away their idols,
+      and became followers of the gentle Savior, whose disciples showed so much
+      of his spirit. In every part of the world the gospel was gaining fast over
+      superstition and ignorance. In Christian lands no other news was so sought
+      after by all as the reports of the progress of the cross, at home and
+      abroad. Enthusiasm is a small word with which to describe the burst of
+      genuine interest in this great cause. Nor was it a transient show of
+      feeling, but so steady and constant that there was never any doubt of its
+      enduring till the final victory was won.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Where now were the dangers that threatened society? What had become of
+      the labor troubles, the schemes of the anarchists, the menace of the
+      unemployed, the risk of a plutocracy, and all the evils that darkened the
+      sky of that former day? How far away, how trivial these things seemed, now
+      that they had passed, and men were learning to dwell together in peace.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <hr />
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2HCH0038" id="link2HCH0038"> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      CHAPTER XXXVIII. AND THE SHADOWS FLEE AWAY.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      Thorwald paused again, and the doctor felt moved to say:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Your sketch has been richly enjoyed, Thorwald, and if it can be taken as
+      prophetic, in any sense, of what is to come to pass on the earth, we are
+      to see some happy days indeed. But a question has arisen in my mind which
+      I would like to ask you. When you broke off your former narrative, things
+      were in a pretty serious state among your ancestors. You have now told us
+      in a general way that there was a great change for the better, and that
+      every thing and every body improved until the time came when it was easier
+      to be good than not. I accept the fact, but do not understand the
+      practical operation of the causes that led to such a result. For instance,
+      I would like to know how that industrial strife came to an end. The
+      parties to it seemed to be full of bitter enmity and far enough from ever
+      loving one another. You have perhaps answered my question already, and my
+      stupidity has prevented me from grasping your meaning.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Let me first ask you a question,&rdquo; said Thorwald. &ldquo;I have inferred, from
+      some words you have let fall from time to time, that your mind has changed
+      somewhat. Will you admit that whatever advance this world has made has
+      come through the teachings of Christ?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;It would be rather presumptuous in me,&rdquo; answered the doctor, &ldquo;to think of
+      denying anything to which you hold so firmly. More than that, in the light
+      of what I have seen and heard here, my own views, so rashly expressed in
+      the first days of our acquaintance, seem to me out of place. They were
+      formed without sufficient study of the subject, and I am free to tell you
+      that I now believe the same influence to which you attribute your growth
+      is the strength and growth of our race also.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Your words give me great pleasure,&rdquo; Thorwald resumed, &ldquo;for now I know I
+      have your full sympathy. The troubles to which you refer, and all the
+      clouds of that period, were dispersed by the growth of the spirit of love
+      in the world. Does that seem a vague and insufficient answer to your
+      question? Does the cause appear inadequate to the effect? Perhaps I should
+      have warned you not to expect any new or startling method of removing
+      these evils. The world was not in need of any nostrum for curing sin, nor
+      of any new scheme of the visionary for teaching men how to find peace and
+      happiness.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;No, the old gospel was sufficient. The power was already at work which
+      was to regenerate the world and, in time, to do away with all kinds of
+      oppression and injustice. The gospel did not spend its force so much in
+      attacking special forms of evil. It struck at the foundation of our sinful
+      nature, and, by long and patient effort, won a firm place in our hearts.
+      Then the whole structure of evil passions and low desires fell, and our
+      race began to build, on this new and safe foundation, more beautiful and
+      enduring mansions.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;If we were to be the children of God, it was necessary for us to be like
+      him, to deny ourselves, and to love our enemies. So, with that spirit
+      growing in our hearts, what place was there for greed and anger and strife
+      between man and man?
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;One secret of the new power put forth by the church is to be found in the
+      union of all good men and women in its support. Before that period many
+      people of character had stood aloof, giving little thought to religion for
+      themselves, and less still to its influence on the world at large. Some of
+      them were out-and-out unbelievers, but, for the most part, they were
+      careless livers, too much engrossed in the affairs of this world to feel
+      any anxiety about the world to come.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But now, in the march of events, the time came when the lines must be
+      sharply drawn between the good and evil forces. Iniquity presented such a
+      bold front, and all the foes of order and decency became so threatening,
+      that the moral forces of society had to combine for mutual protection. The
+      church, being the conservator of morals as of religion, was the only
+      rallying point for these forces, and felt at once the impulse of new life.
+      Thus, society, in the hour of its extremity, found the true source of its
+      salvation, and from that day its progress toward a higher state began, a
+      progress which has never yet been stayed.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Let me urge you, Doctor, to learn a lesson from our history. You
+      acknowledge that, if the earth is to be saved from the evils which
+      threaten its peace, it must be through the gospel. If, therefore, you and
+      others like you wish to help speed the earth in its upward path, you must
+      obey and work for that gospel. To do good to your fellowmen and assist in
+      the regeneration of the world is only one motive for doing this, but it
+      will, I am sure, lead you to that other motive, a desire to please your
+      God. Every consideration calls you to leave your doubts and negations,
+      your neglect and indifference, and join with all the strength of your
+      character in a united effort to free the earth from some of its sin. When
+      this is done, when all the good forces cease their strife and their cold
+      neutrality and come together under the banner of love, you will see a
+      mighty change. Then will the earth grow bright with hope and begin to
+      realize something of the nature of its high destiny.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Let me continue to describe the effect of such warm-hearted, combined
+      labor among us, and the result on our planet of the great spiritual
+      awakening to which I have referred.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;As men took note of the vast improvement going on around them, for every
+      department of life felt the quickening of the new zeal, they became more
+      and more eager in the overthrow of evil. And they had learned thoroughly
+      the great truth that the way to regenerate the world was for everyone to
+      build up his own character in truth and righteousness. Noble lives,
+      devoted to lofty aims, were the natural result of the change, and our
+      race, emerging from such a state of imperfection as I have tried to
+      outline, began to realize with joy that they were living in a new world.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I wish I could describe to you in fitting words the wonderful nature of
+      this advancement. All the pride and selfishness, so common to all hearts
+      in our degenerate days, were now driven out and replaced by the spirit of
+      self-denial. Love, the living principle in the gospel, had conquered all
+      its foes and was now enthroned in every heart.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Do not suppose all this came about in one generation. It is only by
+      comparing one period with another that we are able to see such marked
+      progress. Our development toward the higher life has always been step by
+      step, and sometimes so slow that the people actually living, and in whom
+      the change was taking place, were not aware of any growth.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But there have been special periods in our history when, after long years
+      of preparation, the race has come to a sudden appreciation of a higher and
+      better condition. The most glorious epoch of this kind came at the close
+      of the period I have just been describing.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Perhaps you have seen some rare plant, having come to its maturity
+      through a process so slow as to bring discouragement, often, to those who
+      are cultivating it, now suddenly burst into bloom with such magnificence
+      that the disappointments of the past are all forgotten in the enjoyment of
+      its beauty.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;So broke that blessed day upon Mars. None so fair had ever dawned before,
+      and none less fair have we ever seen since.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;While this spiritual awakening was taking place, there had been rapid
+      progress, also, in our material development. The evils that formerly vexed
+      our bodies having disappeared, we were now free from sin and sorrow alike,
+      and so were prepared to enter upon duties relating to our higher
+      condition.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;All nature rejoiced with us, for the world itself was filled with the joy
+      and beauty which came from the knowledge of the Lord. Peace reigned in the
+      animal creation, and such gladness abounded everywhere that it is hardly
+      an exaggeration to say that the mountains and hills broke forth into
+      singing, and all the trees of the field clapped their hands.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      As Thorwald uttered these closing words, so beautiful and familiar, I was
+      so impressed with their appropriateness to his narrative that I did not
+      stop to wonder where he had obtained them, but inquired with eagerness:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;And is it true, Thorwald, that instead of the thorn there came up the
+      fir-tree, and instead of the brier there came up the myrtle-tree?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;That describes the situation admirably,&rdquo; he answered, &ldquo;and it is
+      literally true.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Why should that be so?&rdquo; I asked.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Because, when sin was banished from our world, it dragged in its train
+      every evil thing and left all bright and joyous behind it. Even the
+      unconscious soil was so improved in character that, whereas in the former
+      time it had brought forth by nature the thorn and brier and noxious weed,
+      there now sprang up spontaneously all manner of healthful plants and
+      fruits.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But,&rdquo; said I, &ldquo;we do not attribute moral excellence to the ground that
+      produces our food. How could the absence of sin make it any better?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Like everything else,&rdquo; replied Thorwald, &ldquo;it reflected the spiritual
+      condition of our race. By long and patient cultivation, by a constant use
+      of good seed, and by a persistent fight against every tendency to evil
+      growth, men had so changed the nature of the soil that it yielded only
+      that which was good. Even if left without care the ground did not
+      deteriorate, but the products took on the character of the times and
+      gradually improved. To such a degree had our once sinful world been
+      changed.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;The disagreeable features in nature&rsquo;s laboratory were lost to every
+      sense, while everything that was beautiful in sight or sound, or that was
+      pleasant to the taste, now possessed an added charm. The birds sang in
+      more joyous notes, the flowers glowed in brighter hue, and all created
+      things burst forth in a song of praise to their Maker.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Is it possible,&rdquo; I asked, &ldquo;that the growth of love in the heart will so
+      transform a world and make even inanimate things more beautiful? The earth
+      is full of selfishness and I fear will be so for a long time, and yet we
+      think we have a few things that are perfect. I cannot conceive, for
+      instance, how anything could ever grow, sin or no sin, that would surpass
+      in beauty one of our finest roses.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      To which Thorwald replied:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Is this not of value to you, to learn that the roses of the future are
+      entirely beyond your conception? Let me assure you that, with each new
+      advance in your progress toward a higher condition, there will unfold
+      within you new powers of appreciation for the increasing beauties in
+      nature, and new desires for spiritual perfections which are now too high
+      for your mind to grasp. Is it not a pleasure to know that there are many
+      things in reserve for the earth of whose character and perfections you
+      cannot conceive?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;It surely is,&rdquo; I replied, &ldquo;and we shall never cease to thank you for this
+      hour&rsquo;s talk. But now let me ask if you were not really in heaven when you
+      reached such a happy state. With both man and nature redeemed from sin,
+      with the tears wiped away from all eyes, with all griefs assuaged and
+      sickness and sorrow forgotten, and with love supreme in the heart, what
+      more was needed to make a heaven? Many of our generation on the earth
+      believe that the earth itself will be our heaven, when sin has been driven
+      out and peace and joy abound.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Oh, no, not heaven,&rdquo; answered Thorwald. &ldquo;The earth will be better in a
+      thousand years than it is now, much better in ten thousand years, but it
+      will never be heaven.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But why?&rdquo; I persisted. &ldquo;We cannot understand how there could be any more
+      blessed place than the earth would be if it should ever reach the
+      condition which you have pictured to us as existing here.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;You have just stated the trouble,&rdquo; Thorwald replied.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;You cannot understand. With your present capacities you think a state
+      such as I have described would be perfection; but you&mdash;I mean, of
+      course, your race&mdash;will come in time to see imperfections even in
+      such a life, and will, with increasing spiritual vision, see still higher
+      things to strive for. Let me urge you to keep your hearts attuned to the
+      heavenly music and your minds open to divine influences.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      Here Thorwald was about to leave us, as we remained in quiet thought after
+      his solemn and impressive words. But I kept him a moment to ask if they
+      had solved all the mysteries of God&rsquo;s moral government. &ldquo;By no means,&rdquo; he
+      replied. &ldquo;There are still many things unexplained in God&rsquo;s dealings with
+      us, and we think this is well. Life would lose much of its value if the
+      time should come when there would be nothing to learn. We know much of
+      God&rsquo;s character, but are not acquainted with its full depths, and whenever
+      we see or experience anything mysterious in his providences we are content
+      to wait for a fuller revelation of truth in the future.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;We shall see the time when all our questions will be answered&mdash;that
+      is, in the world to come&mdash;and, in the mean time, we try to strengthen
+      our high and beautiful conception of God&rsquo;s character by referring
+      everything we do not understand to his loving and gracious qualities,
+      which we know so well.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <hr />
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2HCH0039" id="link2HCH0039"> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      CHAPTER XXXIX. A SUDDEN RETURN TO THE EARTH.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      That night, when the doctor and I were alone, I said to him:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Well, doctor, what do you think of it all?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;It would take me a long time,&rdquo; he replied, &ldquo;to tell what I think. I
+      confess I am beginning to imbibe a little of the spirit of this place. I
+      have spent my life in the pursuit of material facts, which we supposed
+      were the only substantial and valuable things in life Now I find myself
+      thinking lightly of such matters, with my mind held in the grasp of far
+      different thoughts. I realize now something of the substance and reality
+      of unseen things, and believe that man has a spiritual side to his nature,
+      which must be developed if he is to fulfill the high expectations of our
+      friends in this world. Taught by Thorwald&rsquo;s words and by all I have seen
+      here, I have come to that point where I can say I am losing my doubts and
+      acquiring a love for things which formerly did not exist for me. If we
+      ever return to the earth we shall find occupation enough for the rest of
+      our lives in teaching the lessons we have learned here.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Yes,&rdquo; I said, &ldquo;if we ever return. But doesn&rsquo;t that seem impossible?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;It certainly is difficult to imagine how it can be accomplished, but
+      going home ought not to be any more impossible than our coming here.
+      Perhaps we had better bestir ourselves, for Mars is now getting farther
+      away from the earth every day. Thorwald says the two planets were nearer
+      each other at the recent opposition than ever before since their records
+      began, and this is probably what drew our moon here, so fortunately for
+      us. For the return trip we might get these generous people to loan us
+      Demios or Phobos.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;What are they?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Why, don&rsquo;t you know? They are the little satellites of Mars, named after
+      the favorite horses of the war god.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But seriously now,&rdquo; I asked, &ldquo;how are we to get home?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Well, seriously, I don&rsquo;t know,&rdquo; the doctor answered. &ldquo;Some accident may
+      happen to send us away from here in a hurry.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;You know this is not the right world for accidents,&rdquo; I said.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I am not able to see,&rdquo; he replied, &ldquo;how they can be sure that they are
+      entirely free from accidents. They have been so long without them that it
+      seems to me it would not be strange if a big one should come almost any
+      day. One must be due, as we say.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      In the morning Thorwald met us with a pleasant greeting, as usual, and
+      then said:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I have been surprised that you have not shown more curiosity on one
+      subject of vast importance to us. You have not once asked to see our
+      comet.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;We have talked of it by ourselves,&rdquo; said the doctor, &ldquo;but we have been
+      too much engrossed in studying your history and customs to think much of a
+      topic so far above our comprehension as the comet. Your civilization is
+      much higher than we can appreciate, and I am sure we should make small
+      progress in attempting to investigate a development that is so much beyond
+      yours.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Your excuse,&rdquo; returned Thorwald, &ldquo;is as complimentary as it is ingenious.
+      But should you not like to see an object which possesses so much interest
+      for us?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Certainly,&rdquo; the doctor made haste to reply; &ldquo;and just as soon as you
+      choose to take us. You told us it was at the door of a large city. Is it
+      far from here?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Yes,&rdquo; Thorwald answered, &ldquo;a long way in miles, but not far in minutes if
+      we go by the tubular route. But if it is agreeable to you, suppose we take
+      the air line and make a leisurely excursion of it.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      We both assured him that we were delighted with the prospect, and I
+      suggested that Zenith and the children should accompany us.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Yes,&rdquo; said Thorwald, &ldquo;and in anticipation of your consent to go on the
+      expedition, I invited some other friends of yours last night to share the
+      pleasure with us. And here they are now,&rdquo; he continued, rising and
+      stepping to the door.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      The doctor and I hurried forward, and were heartily greeted by Proctor,
+      the astronomer, and Foedric of the red voice. The latter was accompanied
+      by a comely-looking ape, which had been trained to act as his body
+      servant. The animal was intelligent, and quick to understand every word
+      addressed to him, but quiet and respectful in demeanor, and, to all
+      appearance, as well fitted to fill the station he occupied as the servants
+      we had been accustomed to seeing on the earth.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Zenith explained to us that in many households the ape and other creatures
+      were employed for light services, and were exceedingly useful. But as for
+      their own house, she said the work that could not be done by mechanical
+      means she preferred to do herself, assisted by her children. It was much
+      better that every child should have some stated work to do.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      It was not long before we were all on our way to the aerial station, where
+      we selected a commodious air ship, managed by one of Foedric&rsquo;s friends.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      When we were seated comfortably and were enjoying once more the exquisite
+      sensation of sailing so easily through that balmy air, Thorwald said to
+      the doctor and me:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;We all anticipate a great deal of pleasure in showing you our big natural
+      curiosity and what it contains. We want to see your surprise when you look
+      upon its vast proportions, and your growing curiosity as you try to make
+      out some of its mysteries. Things which baffle our skill may be plain to
+      you, and perhaps you will even be able to do something with that puzzling
+      language.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Yes,&rdquo; said the doctor, &ldquo;if it is beyond your skill we shall no doubt be
+      able to read it at sight.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Well, at any rate,&rdquo; continued Thorwald, &ldquo;we shall enjoy the novel
+      experience of exhibiting the marvel of our whole world to those who were,
+      until so recently, entirely ignorant of its existence.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I hope,&rdquo; I said, &ldquo;that our behavior will not be such as to disappoint
+      you, when we are brought face to face with the object for which you have
+      so deep a sentiment.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But, Thorwald, the doctor and I have been talking about going home. Not
+      that we are tiring of your society, but we are filled with a desire to
+      tell the people of the earth what we have found on Mars and try to teach
+      them some of the good lessons you have given us. The doctor, who has a
+      monopoly of the scientific culture in our party, can see no prospect of
+      our getting away from your planet. With your more advanced science, can
+      you suggest any way by which we can take a dignified leave of you?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;We should regret exceedingly,&rdquo; replied Thorwald, &ldquo;to lose you just as we
+      are becoming well acquainted, but I have no criticism to make on the
+      excuse you offer for wanting to revisit your home. I must say, however,
+      that you present to us too hard a problem to solve. With all our
+      attainments in astronomy and in the navigation of the air, you went one
+      point beyond us when you took passage from the earth to Mars, for we have
+      no means by which to express passengers from one planet to another.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;We consider the circumstances of your leaving the earth and your journey
+      hither the most remarkable thing of the kind ever heard of, and we have
+      nothing in our experience on which we can begin to build any scheme for
+      sending you off on so long a flight through space. If you will only be
+      content to stay here till we have progressed further with our
+      investigations of the high civilization brought to light in our comet,
+      perhaps we can help you. The remarkable people whose exalted condition is
+      there represented may have had powers in this direction of which we cannot
+      conceive. The subject will add even more zest to our researches.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Why do you desire to leave us so soon? You have seen but few of our
+      notable improvements, and learned comparatively little of the practical
+      workings of our high civilization. And then I have been hoping the doctor
+      would come fully into our belief before he went away.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;If you could hear what he has told me,&rdquo; I said, &ldquo;you would see that he is
+      already fit to be sent as a foreign missionary from this blessed world to
+      the struggling earth.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Good!&rdquo; cried Thorwald. &ldquo;I am delighted to hear it. If anything could
+      reconcile us to the loss of your society, it is the knowledge that you
+      will both he glad messengers of hope to your promising race. I rejoice
+      that I have had a share in the work of preparing you for your mission.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;And now, suppose we all humor your conceit and give you our parting
+      words, as if the ship were at hand which was to sail the mighty void, and
+      bear you safely to your distant home.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Come, wife, friends, the day is young and the air delightful. There is
+      nothing to hasten us on our way. Let us ride leisurely along and take a
+      little time to speed these earth-dwellers on their prospective journey
+      with a few words of cheer.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Foedric, what advice have you to offer them before they take their leave
+      of us?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      Foedric was modest, as we had learned before, but he entered into
+      Thorwald&rsquo;s plan with evident pleasure, and said, addressing the doctor and
+      me:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;My friends from foreign skies, you do not need advice from me after you
+      have been so long with Thorwald and Zenith, but I will send a message to
+      your unfortunate fellow beings who have never had the pleasure of their
+      acquaintance. When you have related your experiences and told them the
+      condition in which you have found us, ask them to call us no longer Mars,
+      but Pax, the world of peace. Our planet is red, but not with war. Its red
+      is rather the blush of the dawn that ushers in the day of universal love.
+      My word to men is to expect the advent of that day, and, expecting, to
+      prepare for it. Useless, cruel, inhuman war must cease, with all strife
+      and hatred and envy and bitter feeling; and then shall you begin to see
+      the full measure of beauty in the song of the angels of which you have
+      told us, and &lsquo;Peace on earth&rsquo; will be a blessed fact and not a prophecy.
+      Thorwald, I have finished.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;You have spoken well, Foedric,&rdquo; said Thorwald. &ldquo;And now, what wise
+      counsel will you give, Proctor?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;From what I have learned in regard to the people of the earth,&rdquo; replied
+      Proctor, &ldquo;it seems to me they will be obliged to have a great deal of war
+      there yet&mdash;war against a world of evils, which must be driven out
+      with a strong hand before they can have peace. When each individual has
+      subdued his own spirit, then there will be no more war, and no other
+      enemies to conquer.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Study the majesty and power of God as exhibited nightly in the starry
+      sky, and learn to revere a being who holds in his hands a million worlds,
+      and not only guides their movements but directs with a heart of love the
+      minutest affairs of all their inhabitants. Look over the broad field of
+      creation, and think of the earth, grand and beautiful as it is, as only
+      one among the vast number of peopled orbs, all swinging in unison, parts
+      of one plan, every one in its day sending forth a song of praise to its
+      maker. So shall your hearts expand and burst the narrow bounds of selfish
+      desire and trivial occupation, and you will begin to grow into the full
+      stature of the sons of God.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      Proctor spoke with such feeling that the doctor and I now began to think
+      that these people must be in earnest and were really preparing to send us
+      home in some way, but the latter idea was, as will speedily be seen, an
+      unjust suspicion.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Zenith,&rdquo; said Thorwald, &ldquo;will you take your turn, after Proctor&rsquo;s
+      inspiring words?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;If we were in truth making our farewells to these friends,&rdquo; replied
+      Zenith, &ldquo;I should feel more sadness than I am conscious of now.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;My message, O men, shall be a plea for purity. If you would seek to make
+      your world the better for your visit here, teach men everywhere to be
+      pure, a hard lesson to learn, but one that will bring a rich reward. First
+      make the fountain sweet. Be pure in heart, and then your lives, and even
+      your thoughts, will be pure. When you can fully obey the command, &lsquo;Think
+      no evil,&rsquo; you will need no other commandment to keep your lives unspotted.
+      Such a requirement no doubt seems too difficult for you now, but the earth
+      must come to its maturity by following the same high ideal which has ever
+      been set before us. There is one law for all worlds, an infinitely pure
+      and holy God commands us all to be perfect even as he is perfect, although
+      to that perfection nor earth nor Mars, nor, perhaps, any other world, has
+      yet attained.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But, Thorwald, I fear you will not have time to give your farewell words
+      before our friends depart.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I shall not require much time,&rdquo; replied Thorwald, &ldquo;but I should not like
+      to lose the opportunity of adding something to what has already been said.
+      I think we have been wise in having this talk, for those who could take
+      advantage of such a novel way of coming to us may discover some means of
+      going home again before we suspect it.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      Then, turning to us, Thorwald continued:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Go back to the earth, my brothers, and tell men to despair not in their
+      conflict with evil; for God reigns, therefore the good will triumph. Tell
+      them you found a race of happy beings here, not perfect, but aiming toward
+      perfection, having escaped many of the perils that belong to an earlier
+      stage of existence. The earth, too, will one day be old. Will it be happy
+      then? Your generation can help to make it so. With our history to guide
+      us, and with the knowledge you have given us of the earth&rsquo;s present
+      condition, we have high hopes of your race, and I venture the prediction
+      that your world will see, in the near future, such an advance as you have
+      never dreamed of. The era of a united effort to overthrow the evil forces
+      is approaching, when all will press with eager, sincere hearts into the
+      work, when money will be poured out like water, when men will begin to
+      lose their selfishness and take each other by the hand as brothers, and
+      when the dark places of the earth will grow bright with the light of the
+      gospel.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I do not wonder you want to get back there. I hope I should have the same
+      desire if I were in your place. What a time in which to live, with so much
+      good work to do, and such encouragement and sure reward!&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      Thorwald&rsquo;s enthusiasm made him eloquent, and we all regarded him intently
+      as he spoke. How well I remember that group of persons: Proctor, the
+      devout astronomer; the stalwart and earnest Foedric; Zenith, the queen of
+      all womanly graces; and Thorwald himself, our friend and brother, the rich
+      fruit of an advanced development.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      My companion and I were deeply impressed with the words we had heard, and
+      could hardly realize that these friends were not aware that our life in
+      Mars was nearly over, their farewells were so genuine.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      But, hark! Thorwald is still speaking:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Go back to the earth, I say, and&mdash;&rdquo; a crash, a sensation of falling,
+      a dull pain in my head, a new voice at my ear, saying,
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Why, Walter, are you hurt?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      During the effort to recover full consciousness I said:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;There, Doctor, the accident you expected has certainly come.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      And then I opened my eyes and discovered that I was sitting in an
+      undignified position on the deck of a vessel of some kind.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Again the voice, now more familiar and identified with a lovely face,
+      said:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;You must have had that broken chair; I knew it would let you down some
+      time. Don&rsquo;t you know me, Walter?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Why, yes, it&rsquo;s you, Margaret, isn&rsquo;t it? But where&rsquo;s the doctor?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Oh, how are you hurt?&rdquo; cried Margaret in alarm. &ldquo;Tell me, and I will run
+      for the doctor at once.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      This conversation had all passed in a moment, and by the time it was
+      finished I had extricated myself from the broken chair with Margaret&rsquo;s
+      assistance, and was now wide awake. I had never expected to leave Mars
+      without the doctor; but now he was gone with all the rest, and I was well
+      content to find myself back by Margaret&rsquo;s side, and to hear her pleasant
+      words, the words of a plain inhabitant of the earth, not too good to love
+      me a little selfishly. A wave of intense happiness in the possession of
+      such a love passed over me. It was a feeling I had never before
+      experienced in my waking moments and it must have illumined my face, for
+      Margaret continued:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I don&rsquo;t believe you are hurt at all. You look too happy to be in pain.
+      What have you been dreaming about, that makes your face shine so? How
+      thankful I am for this bright moonlight. I never saw you have so much
+      expression before.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Margaret,&rdquo; I replied, as soon as she would let me speak, &ldquo;don&rsquo;t you
+      remember you sent me on a quest for my heart? Well, I have found it and
+      brought it back to you.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;How lovely to find it so soon,&rdquo; she exclaimed; &ldquo;and I know by your looks
+      it&rsquo;s a large one and full of love. But tell me about it. How did it
+      happen?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Why, I fell in love with a voice.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;With a voice? Whose voice?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Well, it didn&rsquo;t seem to matter much. First it belonged to Mona and then
+      to Avis, and part of the time to both of them.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;You make me jealous,&rdquo; said Margaret.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      We were now standing, hand in hand, leaning on the rail of the vessel, in
+      the full enjoyment of our new-found happiness.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;You will not be jealous,&rdquo; I answered, &ldquo;when you know all about it. I have
+      enough to tell you, Margaret, to occupy a week, I should think. I have
+      seen and heard a great deal, and seemed to be living amid other scenes for
+      many months, and yet I notice the moon is but two or three hours higher
+      than when you left me there in the chair to go and find your book. I shall
+      take great pleasure in relating to you the entire experience when we have
+      time. Perhaps I will write it out for you. I have been stirred as I never
+      expected to be, but I assure you I have brought back my whole heart to
+      you. Only,&rdquo; I added, as a sudden flash of memory startled me with its
+      vividness, &ldquo;I should like to hear that voice once more.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Ah,&rdquo; said my companion, &ldquo;why do you think of that so much? I fear you are
+      not quite heart whole. What was there peculiar about the voice?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Margaret, it was the most exquisite music anyone ever dreamed of. I
+      cannot describe my emotions or the intensity of my enjoyment whenever I
+      heard it. First the voice belonged to a beautiful girl whom I thought we
+      met on the moon, and who talked only in the language of the birds. Then
+      she went to Mars with us, and there I heard the same sweet voice also from
+      one of the noble women of that happy planet.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Oh, what queer things we do in our sleep, and how supremely selfish a
+      dreamer is. I once had a theory that we are all responsible for the
+      character of our dreams, but I hope, my dear, that you will not call me to
+      too strict an account in this case, I should blush to tell you how I loved
+      each singer, and yet I know now it was only the voice that charmed me. I
+      shall seek my pillow with delight to-night, to try and catch in my sleep
+      some faint echo of that song, for I never expect to hear its like in my
+      waking hours. You are laughing at me, and I don&rsquo;t wonder. Let me see. I
+      dreamed that I dreamed that you and Mona and Avis were all one grand,
+      sweet singer. I wonder what would have happened if I had staid there long
+      enough to tell Avis something that was on my mind. Perhaps I never should
+      have come away.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But forgive me, dear Margaret, for my enthusiasm for simply a memory, and
+      put the blame on my sensitive ears. And now, tell me what you have been
+      doing during these long hours. Did you find the professor and get your
+      book?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Yes, but I had to stay a few minutes and hear him talk. I hurried back,
+      however, to be with you, and for my reward found you fast asleep.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I was only dozing. But what did you do then?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Oh, I sat quiet for a while, and then took up the amusement I usually
+      follow when I find myself alone.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;What is that? Pray tell.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Singing, of course.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Singing?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Why, yes, didn&rsquo;t you know I could sing?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Do you mean to say you were singing all those two or three hours?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Not all the time, but at intervals. I sang so loud sometimes that I
+      thought I should wake you.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Then,&rdquo; I exclaimed with feeling, &ldquo;it was you that I heard. You know my
+      ears are never fully asleep. Margaret, it was your voice that I have been
+      falling in love with.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      At this Margaret laughed heartily, as she answered:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;You have been a good while finding it out. I knew it all the time. That&rsquo;s
+      what I sang for, and I had my pay as I went on, for every time I began,
+      whether soft or loud, I could see your face light up with the light of
+      your soul, and then I knew my voice was finding its way to some corner of
+      your brain.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;How stupid of me,&rdquo; I said, &ldquo;not to wake up the very first time I heard
+      you; but I thought it was Mona. Oh, how it did thrill me! And to think I
+      am to hear it again when I am really awake. Come, why do we waste all this
+      time in talking when I have that great happiness still unfulfilled? May I
+      not hear you sing now?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Oh, you might be disappointed, after all. My idea is that you enjoyed my
+      singing because all your critical faculties were dulled in sleep, and you
+      heard only through your heart, as it were. Don&rsquo;t you think it would be
+      better to live awhile on the pleasant memory you have brought back with
+      you?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Not at all. I can retain the memory, and have the present happiness
+      besides.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;But you said you never expected to hear such music in your waking hours.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Do not be so cruel, Margaret, as to recall those words against me,
+      although they were really a tribute to you, for it was your own voice that
+      forced me to utter them. But what can I do to induce you to sing?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Go to sleep,&rdquo; she replied. &ldquo;I will sing for you all you please when you
+      are asleep, and you can hear me and think of Mona at the same time. That
+      will be a double pleasure.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;My dear, I prefer to think of you. Mona was a beautiful girl, but she
+      could never love me as you do.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Why so? Wasn&rsquo;t her heart large enough?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Yes, it was too large&mdash;so large that she loved everybody, and one no
+      more than another; while you, darling, have chosen me, out of all the
+      people in the world, as the object of your highest and deepest love, and
+      yet in doing that have only increased your power of loving others. Now
+      what will you do to pay me for that speech?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Well, I&rsquo;ll relent. But you must at least pretend to be asleep. Come back
+      and find another chair that you can rest in easily, and I will sit beside
+      you. There, that will do. Now turn your head away from me, close your
+      eyes, and promise me you won&rsquo;t open them till I tell you to do so. I
+      intend to have the calm judgment of your ears uninfluenced by your sight
+      or any other sense. If you can manage to fall asleep while I am singing,
+      so much the better.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Margaret,&rdquo; I replied, &ldquo;I shall try hard to keep my eyes closed, but there
+      isn&rsquo;t a drug in the ship&rsquo;s dispensary powerful enough to put me to sleep.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Then keep quiet and think of Mona. That will be the next best occupation
+      for you. Stop laughing, or I shall disappoint you, after all. I should
+      think the memory of the first time I sang for you would be enough to sober
+      you. Now I am going to turn away my head, so that if you do look around
+      you won&rsquo;t see my face.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      I said nothing in reply, being too eager to have her begin. And now I had
+      not long to wait for the fulfillment of my oft-expressed desire.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Sweet and low came the first accents of her song, and, with all my
+      anticipations and with the foretaste I had had in my sleep, I was not
+      prepared for the effect they had on me. It was Mona&rsquo;s voice, but with
+      every fine quality so exaggerated that all my faculties, now in the
+      fullest sense awake, were completely taken captive. I made no movement,
+      except to turn my head slightly so that I might drink in the sweet sounds
+      with both ears. As the notes increased in volume my pleasure grew to
+      rapture. Not only was my critical taste fully satisfied, which of itself
+      was almost bliss, but that other and higher effect followed&mdash;my heart
+      was enlisted. I had never known love till that hour. We had been
+      introduced to each other years ago and had kept up a cold and formal
+      acquaintance, and in my recent sleep we had made notable progress, but
+      only now did love and I really clasp hands in a warm and lasting embrace.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      If I had loved Margaret before, then the feeling I now had was something
+      else, it was so different. But it was nothing else, and, therefore, I was
+      obliged to conclude that I had lived all these years with a false notion
+      in my head. As the song changed now and then, but did not stop, my heart
+      swelled with its strong emotion, and I had the greatest difficulty to keep
+      my promise and remain quiet. At length the music ceased, and I jumped from
+      my chair with the intention of giving Margaret some palpable sign of my
+      new love, when I was arrested by her warning hand and these words:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Wait, Walter, someone is coming. I can see all you want to tell me in
+      your face.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      I was obliged to stop, and reserve for a more private place any violent
+      manifestation of my exuberant affection, but answered quietly:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Not all, dear Margaret. You will never know all my love.&rdquo; There was now
+      more or less passing back and forth by the passengers, preparing for the
+      approaching landing, but yet we were able to continue our conversation. At
+      Margaret&rsquo;s request I told her more about Mona and Avis, and the principal
+      incidents of what seemed to me a real experience, reserving the graver
+      parts of the story for other occasions. Her sympathies went out
+      particularly toward Mona, and suggested the question:
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Did not the poor child recover her voice?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;I think she did soon after we left,&rdquo; I replied. &ldquo;I neglected to tell you
+      that, the morning we started for our last aerial trip, Antonia told me she
+      was teaching Mona the use of the vocal organs, and the results were
+      already such that she believed she would in a short time be entirely
+      successful.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;How fortunate for me,&rdquo; said Margaret, laughing, &ldquo;that you came away just
+      then.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Oh, Margaret,&rdquo; I exclaimed as loud as I dared, &ldquo;I thought I was happy
+      last night, but what shall I call my condition now? Do you have that
+      intensity of feeling for me which is nearly bursting my heart?&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      &ldquo;Yes, my dear, I have had it for years. But my love is certainly
+      increasing now, when I see yours flowering out so luxuriantly.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      In such sweet converse the time passed rapidly. Steadily our noble vessel
+      carried us every moment nearer home. And with the last words of Thorwald,
+      &ldquo;Go back to the earth,&rdquo; still ringing in my ears, we steamed amid familiar
+      scenes&mdash;the lights from Long Island, New Jersey, Staten Island, and
+      soon Liberty&rsquo;s torch, Governor&rsquo;s Island, and the great city in front of
+      us. This voyage was ended, but our life&rsquo;s voyage seemed to be just
+      beginning as I led Margaret forth with wonderful tenderness and whispered
+      in her ear, passionately, the magic words, &ldquo;I love you.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      <br /><br />
+    </p>
+    <hr />
+    <p>
+      <a name="link2H_4_0041" id="link2H_4_0041"> </a>
+    </p>
+    <div style="height: 4em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+    <h2>
+      POSTSCRIPT.
+    </h2>
+    <p>
+      Every book should have a purpose. Notwithstanding the popular character of
+      much that is contained in these pages, the purpose of this volume is a
+      serious one.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      I acquired the belief in the habitability of other worlds when quite
+      young, and it long ago grew into a settled conviction.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Firmly held by this idea, what is called the astronomical difficulty in
+      theology gave me great concern. When I considered the vast extent of the
+      universe, and saw, with but little imagination, millions on millions of
+      habitable worlds, I felt the force of the old objection, How could our
+      tiny earth have been chosen for such peculiar and high honor as we read of
+      in the gospel story?
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Thomas Chalmers, in the preface to his astronomical discourses, states the
+      difficulty in these words: &ldquo;This argument involves in it an assertion and
+      an inference. The assertion is, that Christianity is a religion which
+      professes to be designed for the single benefit of our world; and the
+      inference is, that God cannot be the author of this religion, for he would
+      not lavish on so insignificant a field such peculiar and such
+      distinguishing attentions as are ascribed to him in the Old and New
+      Testaments.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      And then Dr. Chalmers proceeds in his able manner to overthrow both
+      assertion and inference. He shows that it is only presumption for the
+      infidel to claim that Christianity is designed solely for this world, and
+      asks how he is able to tell us, &ldquo;that if you go to other planets, the
+      person and religion of Jesus are there unknown to them.&rdquo; &ldquo;For anything he
+      {the infidel} can tell,&rdquo; the writer continues, &ldquo;the redemption proclaimed
+      to us is not one solitary instance, or not the whole of that redemption
+      which is by the Son of God;... the moral pestilence, which walks abroad
+      over the face of our world, may have spread its desolation over all the
+      planets of all the systems which the telescope has made known to us....
+      The eternal Son, of whom it is said that by him the worlds were created,
+      may have had the government of many sinful worlds laid upon his
+      shoulders.&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      In this and in all the rest of his argument Dr. Chalmers, while intimating
+      that the redemption may include other worlds, retains the belief that the
+      actual occurrences related in the gospel took place only on this globe.
+      Others may have heard the story, or, as he beautifully says: &ldquo;The
+      wonder-working God, who has strewed the field of immensity with so many
+      worlds, and spread the shelter of his omnipotence over them, may have sent
+      a message of love to each, and reassured the hearts of its despairing
+      people by some overpowering manifestation of tenderness.... Angels from
+      paradise may have sped to every planet their delegated way, and sung from
+      each azure canopy a joyful annunciation, and said, &lsquo;Peace be to this
+      residence and good will to all its families, and glory to Him in the
+      highest, who from the eminence of his throne has issued an act of grace so
+      magnificent as to carry the tidings of life and of acceptance to the
+      unnumbered orbs of a sinful creation.&rsquo;&rdquo;
+     </p>
+    <p>
+      But, as Dr. Chalmers truthfully says, it is not the infidel alone that
+      raises this question. It is asked by many sincere believers, generally in
+      communion with their own minds, and has disturbed, if not hindered, their
+      faith. These brilliant discourses left me still perplexed on the main
+      point, and I was forced to ask myself again if it was at all likely that
+      one world could be made so unlike all others as to become the only scene
+      of such a wonderful event as the death of the Son of God. And even if this
+      could be made to seem probable, what an infinitesimal chance there would
+      be that our earth would be the one chosen for this exhibition, out of the
+      unnumbered worlds that fill the immensity of space.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      As a feeble hint toward a possible solution of this difficulty, this
+      volume is offered. The argument may not be acceptable to a single reader.
+      I do not say that I believe it myself; but the thought has helped to
+      satisfy my mind and may be of assistance to some other soul. I will merely
+      say that, of course, I do not believe the analogy between any two worlds
+      is so close as I have made it, for the purposes of the story, between Mars
+      and the earth.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      In my effort to relieve the book of dullness, I have exaggerated some of
+      the situations, as in the treatment of the woman question for example, but
+      the intelligent reader will easily discover whether there be anything of
+      value remaining after the extravagance has been brushed away.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Alvan Clark &amp; Sons, the celebrated makers of telescopic lenses, in
+      view of their recent successes in casting larger object-glasses than was
+      once thought possible, now assert that they can place no limit to the size
+      these glasses may reach in the future. It is only a question of time,
+      skill, patience, and money.
+    </p>
+    <p>
+      Is it, then, presumptuous to believe that the day will dawn when this
+      world will know whether Venus or Mars is inhabited? And if either or both
+      of them shall be found to be peopled, among the many questions of
+      engrossing interest to be studied it seems clear to me that the most
+      important will be the moral and spiritual condition of the inhabitants.
+    </p>
+    <h3>
+      THE AUTHOR.
+    </h3>
+    <div style="height: 6em;">
+      <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />
+    </div>
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+<pre>
+
+
+
+
+
+End of Project Gutenberg&rsquo;s Daybreak: A Romance of an Old World, by James Cowan
+
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+Project Gutenberg's Daybreak: A Romance of an Old World, by James Cowan
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: Daybreak: A Romance of an Old World
+
+Author: James Cowan
+
+
+Release Date: April, 2005 [EBook #7814]
+This file was first posted on May 19, 2003
+Last Updated: May 15, 2013
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ASCII
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK DAYBREAK ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Anne Soulard, Suzanne Shell, William Craig,
+Robert Laporte, Steen Christensen and the Online Distributed
+Proofreading Team
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+DAYBREAK
+
+A ROMANCE OF AN OLD WORLD
+
+
+By James Cowan
+
+
+[Illustration: "HE MADE THE STARS ALSO"]
+
+
+
+CONTENTS.
+
+
+CHAPTER I. AN ASTRONOMER ROYAL.
+
+CHAPTER II. A FALLEN SATELLITE.
+
+CHAPTER III. TWO MEN IN THE MOON.
+
+CHAPTER IV. AND ONE WOMAN.
+
+CHAPTER V. OUR INTRODUCTION TO MARS.
+
+CHAPTER VI. A REMARKABLE PEOPLE.
+
+CHAPTER VII. RAPID TRANSIT ON MARS.
+
+CHAPTER VIII. THORWALD PUZZLED.
+
+CHAPTER IX. THORWALD AS A PROPHET.
+
+CHAPTER X. MORE WORLDS THAN TWO.
+
+CHAPTER XI MARS AS IT IS.
+
+CHAPTER XII. WE REACH THORWALD'S HOME.
+
+CHAPTER XIII. A MORNING TALK.
+
+CHAPTER XIV. PROCTOR SHOWS US THE EARTH.
+
+CHAPTER XV. A NIGHT ADVENTURE.
+
+CHAPTER XVI. AN UNLIKELY STORY.
+
+CHAPTER XVII. THE DOCTOR IS CONVINCED.
+
+CHAPTER XVIII. STRUCK BY A COMET.
+
+CHAPTER XIX. I DISCOVER THE SINGER.
+
+CHAPTER XX. A WONDERFUL REVELATION.
+
+CHAPTER XXI. A LITTLE ANCIENT HISTORY.
+
+CHAPTER XXII. AGAIN THE MOON.
+
+CHAPTER XXIII. WE SEARCH FOR MONA.
+
+CHAPTER XXIV. THE PICTURE TELEGRAPH.
+
+CHAPTER XXV. AN UNSATISFACTORY LOVER.
+
+CHAPTER XXVI. AN ENVIABLE CONDITION.
+
+CHAPTER XXVII. THE CHILDREN'S DAY.
+
+CHAPTER XXVIII. BUSINESS ETHICS.
+
+CHAPTER XXIX. THE INDUSTRIAL PROBLEM.
+
+CHAPTER XXX. ATTEMPTS TO SOLVE THE PROBLEM.
+
+CHAPTER XXXI. WINE-DRINKING IN MARS.
+
+CHAPTER XXXII. A GENUINE ACCIDENT.
+
+CHAPTER XXXIII. THE EMANCIPATION OF WOMAN.
+
+CHAPTER XXXIV. THE EMANCIPATION OF MAN.
+
+CHAPTER XXXV. AN EXALTED THEME.
+
+CHAPTER XXXVI. VANQUISHED AGAIN BY A VOICE.
+
+CHAPTER XXXVII. UNTIL THE DAY BREAK.
+
+CHAPTER XXXVIII. AND THE SHADOWS FLEE AWAY.
+
+CHAPTER XXXIX. A SUDDEN RETURN TO THE EARTH.
+
+POSTSCRIPT.
+
+
+
+
+DAYBREAK:
+
+A ROMANCE OF AN OLD WORLD
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER I.
+
+AN ASTRONOMER ROYAL.
+
+
+It was an evening in early autumn in the last year of the nineteenth
+century. We were nearing the close of a voyage as calm and peaceful as
+our previous lives.
+
+Margaret had been in Europe a couple of years and I had just been over
+to bring her home, and we were now expecting to reach New York in a day
+or two.
+
+Margaret and I were the best of friends. Indeed, we had loved each other
+from our earliest recollection. No formal words of betrothal had ever
+passed between us, but for years we had spoken of our future marriage as
+naturally as if we were the most regularly engaged couple in the world.
+
+"Walter," asked Margaret in her impulsive way, "at what temperature does
+mercury melt?"
+
+"Well, to hazard a guess," I replied, "I should say about one degree
+above its freezing point. Why, do you think of making an experiment?"
+
+"Yes, on you. And I am going to begin by being very frank with you. You
+have made me a number of hurried visits during my stay in Europe, but we
+have seen more of each other in the course of this voyage than for two
+long years. I trust you will not be offended when I say I hoped to find
+you changed. I have never spoken to you about this, even in my letters,
+and it is only because I am a little older now, and because my love for
+you has increased with every day of life, that I have the courage to
+frame these words."
+
+"Do tell me what it is," I exclaimed, thoroughly alarmed at her serious
+manner. "Let me know how I have disappointed you and I will make what
+amends I can. Tell me the nature of the change you have been looking for
+and I will begin the transformation at once, before my character becomes
+fixed."
+
+"Alas! and if it should be already fixed," she replied, without a smile.
+"Perhaps it is unreasonable in me to expect it in you as a man, when you
+had so little of it as a boy; but I used to think it was only shyness
+then, and always hoped you would outgrow that and gradually become an
+ideal lover. You have such a multitude of other perfections, however,
+that it may be nature has denied you this so that I may be reminded that
+you are human. If the choice had been left with me I think I should
+have preferred to leave out some other quality in the make-up of your
+character, good as they all are."
+
+"What bitter pill is this," I asked, "that you are sugar-coating to such
+an extent? Don't you see that I am aching to begin the improvement in my
+manners, as soon as you point out the direction?"
+
+"You must know what I mean from my first abrupt question," she answered.
+"To make an extreme comparison, frozen mercury is warm beside you,
+Walter. If you are really to be loyal knight of mine I must send you on
+a quest for your heart."
+
+"Ah, I supposed it was understood that I had given it to you."
+
+"I have never seen it," she continued, "and you have never before said
+as much as is contained in those last words. Here we are, talking of
+many things we shall do after we are married, and yet you have nothing
+to say of all that wonderful and beautiful world of romance that ought
+to come before marriage. Is this voyage to come to an end and mean no
+more to us than to these hundreds of passengers around us, who seem only
+intent to get back to their work at the earliest possible moment? And is
+our wedding day to approach and pass and be looked upon merely as part
+of the necessary and becoming business of our lives? In short, am I
+never to hear a real love note?"
+
+"Margaret, I have a sister. You know something of the depth of my
+affection for her. When I meet her in New York to-morrow or next day,
+if I should throw my arms around her neck and exclaim, in impassioned
+tones, 'My sister, I love you,' what would she think of me?"
+
+"She would think you had left your senses on the other side," replied
+Margaret, laughing. "But I decline to accept the parallel. I have not
+given up my heart to your keeping these many years to be only a sister
+to you at last."
+
+"But my mother! Is it possible for me to love you more than my mother
+loved me? And yet I never heard her speak one word on the subject, and,
+now that I think of it, I am not sure but words would have cheapened her
+affection in my mind. You do not doubt me, Margaret?"
+
+"No more than you doubted your mother, although she never told her
+love. No, it is not so serious as that; but I wish you were more
+demonstrative, Walter."
+
+"What, in words? Isn't there something that speaks louder than words?"
+
+"Yes, but let us hear the words, too. There is a beautiful proverb in
+India which says, 'Words are the daughters of earth and deeds are the
+sons of heaven.' That is true, but let us not try to pass through life
+without enjoying the company of some of the 'daughters of earth.'"
+
+"I will confess this much, Margaret, that your words are one of your
+principal charms."
+
+"Oh, do you really think so? I consider that a great compliment from
+you, for I have often tried to repress myself, fearing that my impulsive
+and sometimes passionate speech would offend your taste, you who are
+outwardly so cold. Do you know, I have a whole vocabulary of endearing
+terms ready to be poured into your ears as soon as you begin to give me
+encouragement?"
+
+"Then teach me how to encourage you, and I will certainly begin at once.
+Shall we seek some retired spot, where we can be free from observation,
+and then shall I seize your hand, fall on my knees, and, in vehement and
+extravagant words, declare a passion which you already know I have, just
+as well as you know I am breathing at this moment?"
+
+"Good!" cried Margaret. "That's almost as fine as the real scene. So you
+have a passion for me. I really think you are improving."
+
+Before going on with this conversation, let me tell you a little more
+about Margaret and my relations to her.
+
+There was good cause for her complaint. I was at that time a sort
+of animated icicle, as far as my emotional nature was concerned. But
+although I could not express my feelings to Margaret in set phrase, I do
+not mind saying to you that I loved her dearly, or thought I did, which
+was the same thing for the time being. I loved her as well as I was
+capable of loving anybody. What I lacked Margaret more than made up, for
+she was the warmest-hearted creature in all the world. If I should begin
+to enumerate her perfections of person and character I should never care
+to stop.
+
+Her educational advantages had been far above the average, and she had
+improved them in a manner to gratify her friends and create for herself
+abundant mental resources. She had taken the full classical course at
+Harvard, carrying off several of the high prizes, had then enjoyed two
+years of post-graduate work at Clark, and finally spent two more years
+in foreign travel and study. As has been intimated, I had been over for
+her, and we were now on our way home, expecting to land on the morrow or
+the day after.
+
+If you imagine that Margaret had lost anything by her education or
+was less fitted to make a good home, it is because you never knew
+her. Instead of being stunted in her growth, broken in constitution,
+round-shouldered, pale-faced and weak-eyed, the development of her body
+had kept pace with the expansion of her mind, and she was now in the
+perfect flower of young womanhood, with body and soul both of generous
+mold. Her marvelous beauty had been refined and heightened by her
+intellectual culture, and even her manners, so charming before, were
+now more than ever the chaste and well-ordered adornments of a noble
+character. She was as vivacious and sparkling as if she had never
+known the restraints of school, but without extravagance of any kind to
+detract from her self-poise. In short, she was a symphony, a grand and
+harmonious composition, and still human enough to love a mortal like me.
+Such was the woman who was trying to instill into my wooing a little of
+the warmth and sympathy of her delightful nature. As for myself, it will
+be necessary to mention only a single characteristic. I had a remarkably
+good ear, as we say. Not only was my sense of hearing unusually acute,
+but I had an almost abnormal appreciation of musical sounds. Although
+without the ability to sing or play and without the habit of application
+necessary to learn these accomplishments, I was, from my earliest years,
+a great lover of music. People who are born without the power of nicely
+discriminating between sounds often say they enjoy music, but these
+excellent people do not begin to understand the intense pleasure with
+which one listens, whose auricular nerves are more highly developed. But
+this rare and soul-stirring enjoyment is many times accompanied, as in
+my case, with acute suffering whenever the tympanum is made to resound
+with the slightest discord. The most painful moments of my life,
+physically speaking, have been those in which I have been forced to
+listen to diabolical noises. A harsh, rasping sound has often given me a
+pang more severe than neuralgia, while even an uncultivated voice or an
+instrument out of tune has jarred on my sensitive nerves for hours.
+
+My musical friends all hated me in their hearts, for my peculiarity made
+me a merciless critic; and the most serious youthful quarrel between
+Margaret and myself arose from the same cause. Nature had given Margaret
+a voice of rare sweetness and a fine musical taste, and her friends
+had encouraged her in singing from her youth. One day, before she had
+received much instruction, she innocently asked me to listen to a song
+she was studying, when I was cruel enough to laugh at her and ridicule
+the idea of her ever learning to sing correctly. This rudeness made such
+an impression on her girlish mind that, although she forgave the offense
+and continued to love the offender, she could never be induced again to
+try her vocal powers before me. All through her school and college days
+she devoted some attention to music, and while I heard from others much
+about her advancement and the extraordinary quality of her voice, she
+always declared she would never sing for me until she was sure she could
+put me to shame for my early indiscretion, so painfully present in her
+memory. This became in time quite a feature of our long courtship, for
+I was constantly trying to have her break her foolish resolution and
+let me hear her. Although unsuccessful, the situation was not without a
+pleasurable interest for me, for I knew it must end some time, and in
+a way, no doubt, to give me great enjoyment, judging from the accounts
+which came to my ears. Margaret, too, was well satisfied to let the
+affair drift along indefinitely, while she anticipated with delight the
+surprise she was preparing for me.
+
+During the years she had just been spending abroad a good share of her
+time had been given to her musical studies, principally vocal culture,
+and in her letters she provokingly quoted, for my consideration, the
+flattering comments of her instructors and other acquaintances. She
+did this as part of my punishment, trying to make me realize how much
+pleasure I was losing. Each time I crossed the ocean to visit her I
+expected she would relent, but I was as often disappointed; and now this
+homeward voyage had almost come to an end, and I had never heard her
+voice in song since she was a child. Open and unreserved as she was by
+nature, in this particular she had schooled herself to be as reticent
+and undemonstrative as she accused me of being.
+
+Our talk on the subject of my shortcomings, that evening on shipboard,
+had not continued much longer before I acknowledged in plain language
+that I knew my fault and was ready to cooperate in any scheme that could
+be suggested to cure it.
+
+"What you need," said Margaret, "is some violent sensation, some
+extraordinary experience to stir your soul."
+
+"Yes," I answered, "my humdrum life, my wealth, which came to me without
+any effort of my own, and the hitherto almost unruffled character of my
+relations with you have all conspired to make me satisfied with an easy
+and rather indolent existence. I realize I need a shaking up. I want
+to forget myself in some novel experience, which shall engross all my
+attention for a time and draw upon my sympathies if I have any."
+
+"But what can one do in 'this weak piping time of peace'? There are no
+maidens to be rescued from the enchantments of the wizard, and it is no
+longer the fashion to ride forth with sword and halberd to murder in the
+name of honor all who oppose themselves. No more dark continents wait
+to be explored, neither is there novelty left in searching the ocean's
+depths nor in sailing the sky above us. Civilized warfare itself, the
+only field remaining where undying fame may be purchased, seems likely
+to lose its hold on men, and soon the arbitrator will everywhere replace
+the commander-in-chief and the noble art of war will degenerate into the
+ignoble lawsuit. So even universal peace may have its drawbacks."
+
+"That is quite sufficient in that line," said Margaret. "Now let us come
+down to something practicable."
+
+"Well, I might bribe the pilot to sink the steamer when we are going up
+the bay, so that I could have the opportunity of saving your life."
+
+"It would be almost worth the trial if it were not for the other
+people," she returned. "Such a role would become you immensely."
+
+"I regret that I cannot accommodate you," I said. "But I have thought
+of something which would be rather safer for you. How would you like to
+have me fall desperately in love with some pretty girl?"
+
+"Just the thing," exclaimed Margaret, laughing and clapping her hands,
+"if you can only be sure she will not return your passion."
+
+"Small chance of that," I answered. "So you approve the plan, do you?"
+
+"Certainly, if you care to try it. Lady never held knight against his
+will. But have you forgotten that, after the resources of this planet
+are exhausted, as you seem to think they are soon likely to be, you
+and I have other worlds to conquer? Perhaps in that work you may find
+diversion powerful enough to draw you out of yourself and, possibly,
+opportunities for some heart culture."
+
+I must explain that this was a reference to a plan of life we were
+marking out for ourselves. Margaret was an enthusiast on the subject
+of astronomy. I would include myself in the same remark, only the word
+enthusiast did not fit my temperament at that time. But our tastes
+agreed perfectly in that matter, and we had always read with avidity
+everything we could find on the subject. Margaret, however, was the
+student, and as she had developed great proficiency in mathematics, she
+had decided to make astronomy her profession.
+
+It was understood that I was to perform the easier part of furnishing
+the money for an observatory and instruments of our own, and I was
+determined to keep pace with Margaret in her studies as well as I could
+in an amateurish way, so that she might be able to retain me as an
+assistant. We were to be married at sunrise sharp, on the first day of
+the next century, and to lay the corner-stone of our observatory at
+the exact moment of the summer solstice of the same year. These were
+Margaret's suggestions, but even I was not averse to letting my friends
+see I had a little sentiment.
+
+That night I dreamed of almost everything we had been talking about, but
+lay awake at intervals, wondering if I could, by force of will, work out
+the reform in my character which Margaret desired. The night passed,
+and it was just as I was rising that a thought flashed upon me which
+I determined to put into execution at the first opportunity. This came
+early the next evening. As we expected to reach our wharf soon, we had
+finished our packing, and were now sitting alone in a retired spot on
+deck on the starboard side. As soon as we were comfortably arranged I
+said to my companion:
+
+"Margaret, as this is the last evening of this voyage, it makes an epoch
+in our lives. Your school days are now over, and henceforth we hope
+to be together. Would not this be a most appropriate time for me to be
+introduced to a voice with which I propose to spend the rest of my life?
+Last night you were anxious to think of something which would arouse my
+dormant heart and draw out in more passionate expression my too obscure
+affections. Your words haunted my sleeping and waking thoughts until
+it fortunately occurred to me that you yourself had the very means for
+accomplishing my reformation. You know how impressionable I am to every
+wave of sound. Who knows but your voice, which I am sure will be the
+sweetest in the world to me, may be the instrument destined to stir
+my drowsy soul, to loose my halting tongue, and even to force my proud
+knees to bend before you? In short, why not adopt my suggestion, break
+your long-kept resolution, and sing for me this moment? Is the possible
+result not worth the trial?" To this long address, which was a great
+effort for me, Margaret answered:
+
+"You surprise me already, Walter. If the mere thought of hearing me sing
+can prompt such a sentimental speech as that, what would the song itself
+do? Perhaps it would drive you to the other extreme, and you would
+become gushing. Just think of that. But, seriously, I am afraid you
+would laugh at my voice and send me back to Germany. When you were
+talking I thought I could detect an undercurrent of fun in your words."
+
+"I assure you I was never more in earnest in my life, and I am sorry you
+will not sing. Is your answer final?"
+
+"I think I will wait a little longer. We are liable to be disturbed
+here. And now that you have made a start, perhaps you will improve in
+manners becoming a lover without any more help."
+
+"No, I shall relapse and be worse than ever. Now is your time to help me
+find my heart."
+
+Without answering, Margaret sprang up impulsively, exclaiming:
+
+"There! I have forgotten that book the professor borrowed. Men never
+return anything. I must go and get it, and put it into my bag. And I had
+better run down and see if auntie wants anything. You stay right here;
+don't move, and I'll be back in just three minutes."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER II.
+
+A FALLEN SATELLITE.
+
+
+I promised, and then settled myself more comfortably into my steamer
+chair to await Margaret's return. The three minutes passed, and she did
+not come. Evidently it was hard to find the professor, or perhaps he
+was holding her, against her will, for a discussion of the book. At any
+rate, I could do nothing but sit there, in that easy, half-reclining
+position, and watch the full moon, which had just risen, and was shining
+square in my face, if that could be said of an object that looked so
+round.
+
+I fell into a deep reverie. My mind was filled with contending emotions,
+and such opposing objects as rolling worlds and lovely maidens flitted
+in dim images across my mental vision. I loved the best woman on the
+earth, and I wondered if any of those other globes contained her equal.
+If so, then perhaps some other man was as fortunate as myself. I was
+drowsy, but determined to keep awake and pursue this fancy. I remember
+feeling confident that I could not sleep if I only kept my eyes open,
+and so I said I would keep them fixed on the bright face of the moon.
+But how large it looked. Surely something must be wrong with it, or was
+it my memory that was at fault? I thought the moon generally appeared
+smaller as it rose further above the horizon, but now it was growing
+bigger every minute. It was coming nearer, too. Nearer, larger--why, it
+was monstrous. I could not turn my eyes away now, and everything else
+was forgotten, swallowed up in that one awful sight. How fast it grew.
+Now it fills half the sky and makes me tremble with fear. Part of it is
+still lighted by the sun, and part is in dark, threatening shadow. I
+see pale faces around me. Others are gazing, awe-stricken, at the same
+object. We are in the open street, and some have glasses, peering into
+the deep craters and caverns of the surface.
+
+I seemed to be a new-comer on the scene, and could not help remarking to
+my nearest neighbor:
+
+"This is a strange sight. Do you think it is real, or are we all bereft
+of our senses?"
+
+"Strange indeed, but true," he answered.
+
+"But what does it mean?" And then, assuming a gayety I did not feel,
+I asked further: "Does the moon, too, want to be annexed to the United
+States?"
+
+"You speak lightly, young man," my neighbor said, "and do not appear to
+realize the seriousness of our situation. Where have you been, that you
+have not heard this matter discussed, and do not understand that the
+moon is certain to come into collision with the earth in a very short
+time?"
+
+He seemed thoroughly alarmed, and I soon found that all the people
+shared his feeling. The movement of the earth carried us out of sight
+of the moon in a few hours, but after a brief rest everybody was on the
+watch again at the next revolution. The excitement over the behavior of
+our once despised moon increased rapidly from this time. Nothing else
+was talked of, business was well-nigh suspended, and the newspapers
+neglected everything else to tell about the unparalleled natural
+phenomenon. Speculation was rife as to what would be the end, and what
+effect would follow a union of the earth with its satellite.
+
+While this discussion was going on, the unwelcome visitor was
+approaching with noticeable rapidity at every revolution of the earth,
+and the immense dark shadow which it now made, as it passed beneath the
+sun, seemed ominous of an ill fate to our world and its inhabitants. It
+was a time to try the stoutest hearts, and, of course, the multitude of
+the people were overwhelmed with alarm. As no one could do anything to
+ward off what seemed a certain catastrophe, the situation was all the
+more dreadful. Men could only watch the monster, speculate as to the
+result, and wait, with horrible suspense, for the inevitable. The circle
+of revolution was now becoming so small that the crisis was hourly
+expected. Men everywhere left their houses and sought the shelterless
+fields, and it was well they did so, for there came a day when the earth
+received a sudden and awful shock. After it had passed, people looked
+at each other wonderingly to find themselves alive, and began
+congratulating each other, thinking the worst was over. But the dreadful
+anxiety returned when, after some hours, the moon again appeared, a
+little tardy this time, but nearer and more threatening than ever. The
+news was afterwards brought that it had struck the high mountain peaks
+of Central Asia, tearing down their sides with the power of a thousand
+glaciers and filling the valleys below with ruin.
+
+It was now felt that the end must soon come, and this was true, for at
+the earth's very next revolution the tired and feeble satellite, once
+the queen of the sky and the poet's glory, scraped across the continent
+of South America, received the death blow in collision with the Andes,
+careened, and fell at last into the South Pacific Ocean. The shock given
+to the earth was tremendous, but no other result was manifest except
+that the huge mass displaced water enough to submerge many islands and
+to reconstruct the shore lines of every continent. There was untold loss
+of life and property, of course, but it is astonishing how easily those
+who were left alive accepted the new state of things, when it was found
+that the staid earth, in spite of the enormous wart on her side, was
+making her daily revolution almost with her accustomed regularity.
+
+The lovers of science, however, were by no means indifferent to
+the new-comer. To be able at last to solve all the problems of the
+constitution and geography of the moon was enough to fill them with the
+greatest enthusiasm. But, while thousands were ready to investigate
+the mysterious visitor, one great difficulty stood in the way of all
+progress. It seemed impossible to get a foothold on the surface. The
+great globe rose from the waves on all sides at such an angle on account
+of its shape that a lodgment could not easily be made. Ships sailed
+under the overhanging sides, and in a calm sea they would send out their
+boats, which approached near enough to secure huge specimens. These were
+broken into fragments and were soon sold on the streets of every city.
+
+The first to really set foot on the dead satellite were some adventurous
+advertisers, who shot an arrow and cord over a projecting crag, pulled a
+rope after it, and finally drew themselves up, and soon the lunar cliffs
+were put to some practical use, blazoning forth a few staring words.
+These men could not go beyond their narrow standing place, for the
+general curve of the surface, although broken up by many irregularities,
+presented no opportunities for the most skillful climbing.
+
+But it was impossible that, with the moon so near, the problem of
+reaching it could long remain unsolved. Dr. Schwartz, an eminent
+scientist, was the first to suggest that it must be approached in a
+balloon, and at the same time he announced that he would be one of two
+men, if another could be found, to undertake to effect a landing in that
+way. Here, I saw, was my opportunity. I had often dreamed of visiting
+the moon and other heavenly bodies, and now here was a chance to go
+in reality. I had some acquaintance with Dr. Schwartz, and my prompt
+application for the vacant place in the proposed expedition was
+successful. The doctor kindly wrote me that my enthusiasm in the cause
+was just what he was looking for, and he was sure I would prove a plucky
+and reliable companion. The matter attracted so much attention that the
+United States Government, moved to action by the public nature of
+the enterprise, took it up and offered to bear all the expense of
+the equipment and carrying out of the expedition. Encouraged by this
+assistance, the doctor began his plans at once. All recognized that one
+great object was to settle the question as to the existence of life on
+the other side of the moon; for, in spite of its rude collisions with
+mountains and continents before it rested as near the heart of the earth
+as it could get, it had insisted, with an almost knowing perversity, in
+keeping its old, familiar face next to us. To solve this problem might
+take much time, and so we determined to go so well prepared that, if we
+once reached the upper surface of the moon, we could stay as long as our
+errand demanded.
+
+It was decided to make the ascent from a town near the coast of the
+southern part of Chile, and thither we went with our balloon, some
+scientific apparatus, and a large quantity of dried provisions. We
+took with us also papers from the State Department showing that we were
+accredited agents from our Government to the inhabitants of the moon, if
+we should find any. Our arrangements were speedily made, and on a still,
+bright morning we bade adieu to our friends who had accompanied us thus
+far, mounted our car, and set sail.
+
+We left the earth with light hearts, excited with the novel and
+interesting character of the enterprise, and but little realizing its
+difficulty and danger. Ordinary balloon journeys had become frequent,
+and the evolution of the air ship had almost passed beyond the
+experimental stage, but nothing like our present undertaking had ever
+been attempted.
+
+Our starting place was far enough from the resting point of the moon
+to enable us to clear the rounded side, but in order to reach the
+equatorial line of the fallen globe we would be obliged to ascend over a
+thousand miles.
+
+The fact that we were not appalled by the mere thought of rising to such
+a height shows how thoroughly we were carried away with the excitement.
+But we were better prepared for a lofty flight than might be supposed.
+For among the recent wonders of science had been the invention of an
+air-condensing machine, by which the rarefied atmosphere of the upper
+regions could be converted into good food for the lungs. These machines
+had been successfully tested more than once by voyagers of the air, but
+the present occasion promised to give them a much more severe trial than
+they had yet received. And, indeed, it is impossible to imagine how
+we could have survived without them. Another important aid to science
+rendered by this air-condensing apparatus is that in the process of
+condensation water is produced in sufficient quantities to drink. Our
+little car was tightly inclosed, and we took enough surplus gas with us
+to keep it comfortably warm. So, with plenty of food, air, water, and
+fuel, we were pretty well prepared for a long journey.
+
+Our instruments, placed just outside the glass sides of the car, told
+us how fast we were rising and what height we had reached from time
+to time, and as we left the denser atmosphere of the earth we were
+gratified to find that we continued to rise rapidly. On one side of
+us we could see the rugged surface of the moon, now, on account of its
+rounded form, drawing nearer to us every hour as we approached the point
+where we hoped to land. We thought it best to try to pass the center and
+land, if possible, somewhere on the upper hemisphere, which was the
+part of the monstrous object that we wanted to investigate. But when
+at length we thought we were about to fly past the moon's equator
+successfully, an unexpected thing happened.
+
+If we suppose the moon was resting, at the bottom of the ocean, on one
+of its poles, we were going toward the equatorial line, and we thought
+we should not be able to retain a foothold anywhere below that line
+certainly. But now, what was our surprise to find ourselves under some
+mysterious influence. Our balloon refused to obey us as heretofore, and
+in spite of rudder and sail we were drifting about, and appeared to be
+going toward the moon's surface sooner than we had intended.
+
+In scientific emergencies I deferred to my companion, and now asked
+for an explanation of this erratic behavior of our balloon. Instead of
+replying at once, the doctor stooped and cut a fine wire, which released
+one of the sand bags suspended for ballast from the bottom of our car,
+and told me to watch it. We both watched it, and instead of starting
+with rapidity for the center of the earth, as all well-conducted sand
+bags have done from the beginning of the world, it seemed to hesitate
+and float around a minute, as though it were no more than a handful of
+feathers. And then, slowly at first, but soon more and more swiftly,
+forgetting its birthplace and its old mother earth, it fell unblushingly
+toward the moon.
+
+Intent on watching the fickle sand bag, we did not at first notice that
+our whole conveyance was practicing the same unhandsome maneuver. But
+we soon became aware that we had changed allegiance also. We had started
+with the earth at our feet and the moon looming up on one side of us,
+but here we were now riding with the moon under us and the earth away
+off at our side.
+
+My fellow in this strange experience now found his voice.
+
+"You doubtless realize," said he, "what has taken place. We are now so
+far from the earth that its attraction is very weak and the nearer mass
+of the moon is drawing us."
+
+"That is quite evident," I said, "but you seem as unconcerned about it
+as if such a trip as this were an everyday affair with you."
+
+"I am not at all indifferent to the wonderful character of this
+journey," he replied, "but its scientific value swallows up all personal
+considerations."
+
+I believed this to be true, and I will say right here that in all our
+future experiences the doctor showed the same indifference to everything
+like fear, and seemed content to go to any length in the interest of
+science.
+
+We were now able to govern our movements by the ordinary methods of
+ballooning, and after sailing over the surface of the moon a few hours,
+studying its rugged outlines, we began to think of selecting a place
+for landing. There was no water to be seen and no forests nor other
+vegetation, but everywhere were huge mountains and deep valleys, all as
+bare and uninviting as it is possible to imagine.
+
+But it would not do to turn a cold shoulder to her now, and so we
+descended gracefully to make her close acquaintance, cast out our
+anchor, and were soon on the moon in reality.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER III.
+
+TWO MEN IN THE MOON.
+
+
+"Well, Doctor," said I, as soon as our feet touched the ground, "the
+moon is inhabited now if never before."
+
+"Yes, yes," he answered, "and I am glad to find the inhabitants are of
+such a lively disposition."
+
+"Oh, who can help being light-hearted," I rejoined, "when one's body is
+so light?"
+
+For as soon as we left our car we began to have the queerest sensations
+of lightness. We felt as if we were standing on springs, which the least
+motion would set off and up we would go toward the sky. Everything we
+handled had but a small fraction of the weight it would possess on the
+earth, and our great air-condensing machines we carried about with ease.
+But however high we might jump we always returned to the ground, and
+whether we were on top of the moon or on the bottom of it, it was pretty
+certain that we could not fall off, any more than we could have fallen
+off the earth before we voluntarily but so rashly left it.
+
+My exhilaration of spirit did not last, for I could not help thinking of
+our condition. The law of gravitation surely held us, although with less
+force than we had been accustomed to, on account of the smaller size of
+the moon; and how were we to get away from it?
+
+I again appealed to my companion.
+
+"I do not like the idea of spending the rest of our lives on the moon,
+Doctor, but can you tell me how we are to prevent it? Can we ever get
+back within the earth's attraction again?"
+
+"I have been pondering the subject myself," he replied, "and I think I
+can give you some hope of seeing home once more. If our old measurements
+of the moon are correct, and if we are, as I suppose, somewhere near
+the equator, we must be about fifteen hundred miles from the earth,
+following the curve of the moon's surface. Now, after we have finished
+our investigations here, we can start for home on foot. We can cover a
+good many miles a day, since walking can be no burden here, and we can
+easily tow our balloon along. As we approach the earth, my impression
+is that we shall become more and more light-footed, for we shall be
+gradually getting back to the earth's attraction. Somewhere between this
+point and our planet there must be a spot where the attraction of both
+bodies will be equal, and we can stay on the moon or drop off and return
+to the earth in our balloon as we please."
+
+"What a curious idea," I answered; "and yet, considering the strange
+behavior of our sand bag, I don't know but you are right. And I have
+only one suggestion to make; that is, that we start earthward at once
+and try the experiment. Let the investigations go. If there are any
+inhabitants here they will never miss us, since we haven't made their
+acquaintance yet. Science or no science, I object to remaining any
+longer than necessary in this uncertainty in regard to our future.
+You know very well we couldn't live long in this temperature and with
+nothing for our lungs but what comes through these horrid machines. And
+what good would come of our discoveries if we are never to get back to
+the earth again? I profess to have as much courage left as the ordinary
+mortal would have, but in the present circumstances I believe no one
+would blame us for wanting to settle this question at once."
+
+"It would seem a trifle ridiculous," said the doctor in reply to this
+harangue, "for us to return to our planet without any further effort
+to accomplish our errand. But I will not deny that I share something of
+your feeling, and I will start with you right away, on condition that
+you will return here if we find that I am correct in believing we can
+leave the moon at our pleasure."
+
+"Agreed," I cried, and we were soon on our way.
+
+So far we had been exposed to the sun and were almost scorched by the
+intensity of its rays. We had never experienced anything like such heat
+and would not have supposed the human body could endure it. But now,
+soon after we had started to find the place where the moon would let
+go of us, the sun set and, with scarcely a minute's warning, we were
+plunged into darkness and cold. The darkness was relieved by the
+exceedingly brilliant appearance of the stars, the sky fairly blazing
+with them, but the cold was almost unendurable even for the few moments
+in which we were exposed to it. We secured our car as speedily as
+possible, climbed into it, and got a little warmth from our gas heater.
+
+These extremes of temperature convinced us that no life such as we were
+acquainted with could exist a great while on the moon.
+
+We found we could make no progress at all by night. We could only shut
+ourselves up and wait for the sun to come. In trying to keep warm we
+would work our air-condensers harder than usual, and the water thus
+produced we would freeze in little cakes, and have them to help mitigate
+the burning heat a short time the next day.
+
+The country through which we were traveling was made up of bold mountain
+peaks and deep ravines. There was no sign of vegetation and not even
+the soil for it to grow in, but everywhere only hard, metallic rock that
+showed unmistakably the action of fire.
+
+And so it was with the greatest difficulty that we made our way
+earthward, although there was so little effort needed in walking. As I
+pondered the doctor's idea, it seemed to me more and more that he
+must be right. We were certainly held to the moon where we were by
+gravitation. It was just as true that near the surface of the earth its
+superior attraction would draw all objects to itself. Accordingly, if
+we kept on our way, why should we not in time come to a place where we
+could throw ourselves once more under the influence of the old earth,
+now becoming very dear to us?
+
+Thinking chiefly of this subject and talking of it every day, we labored
+on, and finally were wonderfully encouraged with the belief that we were
+actually walking easier and everything was becoming lighter. Soon this
+belief became a certainty, and, since leaping was no effort, we leaped
+with joy and hope.
+
+And now how shall I describe our sensations as we went bounding along,
+hardly touching the ground, until we finally came to the place where it
+was not necessary to touch the ground at all? Now we knew that by going
+only a little further we should be able to mount our car and set sail
+for the earth again. But with this knowledge we lost at once much of
+our desire, and thought we would not hasten our departure. Here we were,
+absolutely floating in the air, and it maybe believed that the feeling
+was as delicious as it was unique. Using our hands as fins we could with
+the slightest effort sail around at pleasure, resting in any position we
+chose to take, truly a most luxurious experience.
+
+"How shall we make our friends believe all this when we try to tell them
+about it, Doctor?" said I.
+
+"The best way to make them believe it," he replied, "is to bring them
+up here and let them try it for themselves. I propose to organize an
+expedition on our return and bring up a large party. We could manage to
+land somewhere in this vicinity, I think, instead of going up as far as
+you and I did. What a place this would be for summer vacations! The moon
+is a fixture now; it cannot get away. I am sure of that, for the law of
+gravitation will never release it. So we may as well make what use of
+it we can, and these delightful sensations will no doubt form the
+most important discovery that we shall ever make on this dried-up and
+worn-out satellite. You know many people are willing to put themselves
+to much inconvenience and to undergo many hardships for the sake of a
+change from the monotony of home life. If we can induce them to come
+up here for a few weeks, and if they can endure this rather erratic
+climate, they will find change enough to break up the monotony for one
+year, I think."
+
+After enjoying this rare exercise to our content, we began preparing
+for the night which was now coming on. The doctor had reminded me of my
+promise to return to our former position on the moon, and we agreed to
+set out the next day. Having fastened our car securely to the ground,
+so that we might not drift off toward the earth, we entered it and made
+ourselves as comfortable as possible.
+
+Our resting place was near the center of what seemed to be an immense
+crater, and some time before morning we were roused by a violent shaking
+of the ground beneath us, which startled us beyond expression.
+
+"What's that?" I exclaimed.
+
+"That feels very much like a moon-quake," replied my companion.
+
+I was terribly frightened, but resolved to follow the doctor's example
+and make light of what we could not help.
+
+So I said:
+
+"But I thought the lunar volcanoes were all dead ages ago. I hope we
+haven't camped in the crater of one that is likely to go off again."
+
+"My opinion is," answered the doctor, "that there is still water inside
+the moon which is gradually freezing. That operation would sometimes
+crack the surface, and this has probably caused the quaking that we have
+felt."
+
+While we were talking the wind began to blow, and soon, although it was
+long before time for the sun to rise, we suddenly emerged from darkness
+into bright sunlight. We sprang up instinctively to look about us and
+try to discover what this could mean, when what was our consternation to
+find ourselves adrift!
+
+There, in full view of our wondering eyes, was the whole, round earth,
+hanging in space, and where were we? Then we began to realize gradually
+that the trembling of the ground was the grating of the moon against
+the earth as it left its resting place, and the wind was caused by our
+motion.
+
+The novelty of the situation took away for a time the sense of fear, and
+I exclaimed:
+
+"Another scientific certainty gone to smash! I thought you said the moon
+could never get away from the earth. What are we going to do now?"
+
+"Well," replied the doctor, "this is certainly something I never dreamed
+of in my philosophy. I didn't see how the moon could be drawn away from
+the earth when once actually attached to it, but I suppose the sun
+and planets all happen to be pulling in one direction just now and are
+proving too much for the earth's attraction. But what concerns us more
+at this time is covered by your question, 'What are we going to do now?'
+And I will answer that I think we will stick to the moon for a while.
+You can see for yourself that we are held here much more firmly than
+when we were disporting ourselves in the air yesterday, and the earth
+is now too far away for us to throw ourselves and our balloon within its
+attraction."
+
+I knew by the feeling of increasing weight that what my companion said
+must be true, but we could not then appreciate the dreadful nature
+of our condition, so wrapped up were we in the grandeur of the object
+before our eyes. To those who have never been on the moon in such
+circumstances it will be impossible to adequately describe our feelings
+as we gazed upon our late home and knew that we were fast drifting away
+from it.
+
+There the round globe hung, as I had often pictured it in my
+imagination--oceans and continents, mountains, lakes, and rivers, all
+spread out before us--the greatest object lesson ever seen by the eye
+of man. As we studied it, recognizing feature after feature, lands
+and waters that we knew by their familiar shape, the doctor broke our
+reverie with these words, evidently with the endeavor to keep up my
+spirits:
+
+"That looks as natural as a map, doesn't it? You have seen globes with
+those divisions pictured on them, but there is the globe itself. If
+our summer tourists could take in this experience also, it would make a
+vacation worth having. Isn't it grand? I see you are thinking about our
+personal peril, but I think I know men who would take the risk and put
+themselves in our place for the sake of this magnificent view."
+
+"If you know of any way to send for one of those friends, I wish you
+would do so," I replied. "I would willingly give him my place."
+
+It may be believed that we were all this time anxiously watching
+the earth, and it did not lessen our anxiety to realize that we were
+traveling very rapidly away from it. I had reached a point now where I
+did not place much dependence upon the doctor's science, but to get some
+expression of his thoughts I said to him:
+
+"Well, have you any opinion about our fate? Are we doomed to pass the
+remainder of our lives circling around our dear old earth, looking upon
+her face day by day but never to approach her again?"
+
+"I think you have stated the case about as it is," said he, "if,
+indeed, this rate of speed does not carry us entirely beyond the earth's
+attraction, out into illimitable space."
+
+The thought of such an additional catastrophe silenced me, especially
+as I could not deny its possibility. Life on the moon, if we could only
+keep the earth in sight even, seemed almost endurable now, beside the
+idea that we might be cast out to shift for ourselves, without a
+tie save such as the universal law of gravitation might find for us
+somewhere.
+
+It must not be imagined that our conversation was carried on with ease
+or that we were half enjoying our novel situation. We were simply trying
+to make the best of a very bad matter. Not long after we had started the
+wind had taken away the balloon part of our air ship, and now threatened
+every moment to tear the car from its moorings and end our unhappy
+career at once. Besides this impending catastrophe, it was with the
+greatest difficulty that we could get air enough to fill our lungs, but
+the cold was so intense whenever our side of the moon was turned away
+from the sun that we needed the severe labor on our condensers to keep
+us from freezing.
+
+Meantime, our speed increasing every hour, the planet that had once been
+our home was growing smaller before our eyes. At length we were flying
+through space at such a rate that we could not suppress our fears that
+the terrible suggestion of the doctor's would be realized. We had both
+made a mental calculation as to how large the earth ought to look from
+the moon at its normal distance, and as it approached that size we could
+not hide our anxiety from each other. Without a word from the doctor I
+could see by his face that hope was fast leaving him, and as we were now
+going more rapidly than ever I felt that we had nothing to do but accept
+our fate.
+
+In regard to such intensity of feeling at this stage of our experience,
+it maybe objected that our condition was hopeless anyway, and it could
+make no difference whether we remained within the earth's influence
+or not. But in spite of our desperate situation we had some sentiment
+remaining. The earth was the only home we had ever known, and I am not
+ashamed to say that we did not like to lose sight of it; especially
+as there was not the slightest possibility that we should ever see it
+again, unless, indeed, our moon should turn into a comet with eccentric
+orbit, and so bring us back at some future day--a very unlikely
+occurrence, as all will admit who know anything about moons and comets.
+
+Our speed did not lessen but rather increased as we gradually broke away
+from the earth's attraction, and the dear old earth was fast becoming
+a less significant object in our sky. If our situation was lonesome
+before, it was now desolation itself.
+
+"Doctor," said I, when I could control my emotions enough to speak,
+"where now?"
+
+"Well," he replied, with a grim attempt at a smile, "my opinion is not
+worth much in our present strange circumstances, but it seems to me we
+are on our way either to the sun or one of the large planets."
+
+I did not reply, and we both soon found it wise to expend no unnecessary
+breath in talking. The ether was now so thin that it took oceans of it,
+literally, to make enough air to keep us alive.
+
+Our provisions were nearly exhausted, our strength was failing, and
+I really believe we would not have lived many days had not something
+occurred to divert our minds and to relieve some of our physical
+discomforts.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IV.
+
+AND ONE WOMAN.
+
+
+At the time we tied our car to the rocks, to prevent us from drifting
+away from the earth, we did not anticipate that the fastenings would
+receive any very severe strain, but now the velocity of the wind was
+such that there was great danger of our breaking away. The moon was not
+a very hospitable place, to be sure, as we had thus far found it, but
+still we preferred it to the alternative of flying off into space in our
+glass car and becoming a new species of meteor.
+
+And yet it seemed to be courting instant death to attempt to leave the
+car and seek for other shelter. We could not decide which course to
+take. Both were so full of peril that there seemed to be no possible
+safety in either.
+
+As I review our situation now, and think of us spinning along on that
+defunct world we knew not whither, with no ray of light to illumine the
+darkness of our future or show us the least chance of escape from our
+desperate plight, it is astonishing to me that we did not give up all
+hope and lie down and die at once. It only shows what the human body
+can endure and of what stuff our minds are made. I think it would not be
+making a rash statement to say that no man ever found himself in a worse
+situation and survived.
+
+But help was nearer than we supposed. From what we had seen of the
+moon we could not have imagined a more unexpected thing than that
+which happened to us then. Suddenly, above the roar of the wind and the
+thumping of our car on the rocks, even above the tumult of our spirits,
+there came to us the strains of more than earthly music. Whether it was
+from voice or instrument we could not tell, and in its sweetness and
+power it was absolutely indescribable. At first we did not try to
+discover its source but were content to sit and quietly enjoy it, as it
+fell gently upon us, pervading our whole being and so filling us with
+courage and strength that we seemed to be transformed into new men.
+
+Then, wondering if we could discover from whence the notes came, we
+turned and looked about us, when there was revealed to us a vision of
+beauty which filled and satisfied the sense of sight as completely as
+our ears had been enchanted with the angelic music.
+
+Not far from our car, with her flowing garments nearly torn from her in
+the fierceness of the gale, was a young girl, stretching out her hands
+imploringly toward us and pouring forth her voice in that exquisite
+song. We soon discovered it was not for herself that she was anxious,
+but for us; for when she observed that she had attracted our attention
+she smiled and turned to go back the way she had come, beckoning us
+with hand and eye to follow her, and still singing her sweet but
+unintelligible words. Perhaps I flattered myself, but I thought she
+was looking at me more than at my companion, and I began with great
+eagerness to unfasten the door of the car.
+
+"Wait!" cried the doctor. "Where are you going?"
+
+I could not stop an instant, but answered with feeling:
+
+"Going? I am going wherever she is going. I'll follow her to the end of
+the moon if necessary, though the surface be everywhere as bleak as our
+own north pole."
+
+"Well," he replied, "if it is such a desperate case as that, I'll have
+to go along to take care of you."
+
+I found that when such a woman beckons and such a voice calls there is
+but one thing to do. The sirens were not to be mentioned in comparison.
+Twenty thousand hurricanes could not have prevented me from attempting
+to follow where she led as long as I had breath.
+
+We reached the ground in safety, and with the greatest difficulty made
+our way in the footsteps of our guide, leaving all our possessions
+behind us, to the doctor's murmured regret. And now the words of
+the singer seemed to take on a joyous meaning, and we could almost
+distinguish her invitation to follow her to a place where the wind did
+not blow and where our present troubles would be over. She kept well in
+the lead but walked only as fast as our strength would allow, looking
+back constantly to encourage us with her smile and ravishing one heart
+at least with the melody of her song.
+
+Presently we came to the edge of an immense crater, hundreds of feet
+deep and as empty and cold as all the others we had seen on the moon.
+Instead of going around this, our leader chose a narrow ravine and took
+us down the steep side to the bottom of the crater. We supposed she did
+this just to give us protection from the wind, and we were very much
+sheltered, but she did not stop here. Entering one of the many fissures
+in the rocks, she led us into a narrow passage whose floor descended
+so rapidly and whose solid roof shut out the light so quickly that in
+ordinary circumstances we would have hesitated about proceeding.
+But, although it was soon absolutely dark, we kept on, guided by that
+marvelous voice, now our sole inspiration.
+
+"Come, come, fear no harm," it seemed to say, and we were content to
+follow blindly, even the doctor no longer objecting.
+
+[Illustration: "POURING FORTH HER VOICE IN THAT EXQUISITE SONG."]
+
+How many hours we proceeded in this way, going down, down, all the
+time, toward the center of the globe, I have no means of telling; but I
+distinctly remember that we began, after a time, to find, to our great
+joy, that the air was becoming denser and we could breathe quite freely.
+This gave us needed strength and justified the faith with which our
+mysterious deliverer had filled us.
+
+At length we were gladdened by a glimmer of light ahead of us, which
+increased until our path was all illumined with a beautiful soft haze.
+Soon the way broadened and grew still brighter, and then we were led
+forth into an open street, which seemed to be part of a small village.
+There were but few houses, and even these, although they showed signs
+of a former grandeur, were sadly in need of care. Not a creature of any
+kind was stirring, and in our hasty review the whole place looked as
+if it might have been deserted by its inhabitants for a hundred years.
+There was one spot, however, so retired as to be entirely hidden from
+our view at first, which had anything but a deserted appearance. The
+house was small, but it was a perfect bower of beauty, half-concealed
+with a mass of flowers and vines. Here our journey ended, for our guide
+led us to the door and, entering, turned and invited us to follow her.
+
+The doctor and I were tired enough to accept with eagerness her
+hospitality, and soon we were all seated in a pleasant room, which was
+filled with the evidences of a refined taste. Now we had a much better
+opportunity to observe the resplendent beauty of our new friend, and we
+found, also, that her manners were as captivating as her other personal
+qualities. At intervals, all through our long walk, her song had ceased
+and we expected she would make some attempt to speak to us; but being
+disappointed in this, it struck me after we had entered the house that
+I ought to end the embarrassment by addressing her. The circumstances
+of our meeting were peculiar, to say the least, and, of all the thousand
+things I might have appropriately said, nothing could have been more
+meaningless or have better shown the vacant condition of my mind than
+the words I chose.
+
+"It's a fine day," I said, looking square in her eyes and trying to
+speak pleasantly.
+
+In answer she gave me a smile which almost deprived me of what little
+wit remained, and at the same time emitted one exquisite note.
+
+I was now at the end of my resources. I had always thought I could talk
+on ordinary topics as well as the average man, but in the presence of
+this girl, with everything in the world unsaid, I could not think of one
+word to say. The doctor soon saw my predicament and hastened to
+assist me, and the remark which he selected shows again his wonderful
+self-possession in the midst of overwhelming difficulties. He waved his
+hand gently toward me to attract her attention and said:
+
+"My friend and I are from the United States and have come to make you a
+visit. This is your home, I suppose, away down here in the middle of the
+moon? It is very kind of you to bring us here. I hope you will excuse me
+for my rudeness, but what time do you have supper?"
+
+This time three little notes of the same quality as before and then
+a little trill, and the whole accompanied by a smile so sweet that I
+suddenly began to wish the doctor had been blown off the top of the
+moon. It was a wicked thought and I put it away from me as quickly
+as possible, being assisted by the recollection that the doctor had a
+charming wife already, who was no doubt thinking of him at this very
+moment.
+
+We were not making much progress in opening conversation, but our
+charming hostess seemed to understand either the doctor's words or his
+looks, for, stepping into another room, she called us presently to sit
+down to a table well supplied with plain but substantial food. She soon
+made us feel quite at home, just by her easy and agreeable ways. We did
+not once hear her voice in ordinary speech, and at length we began to
+suspect, what we afterward learned to be true, that she talked as the
+birds talk, only in song. Whether she used her language or ours she
+would always sing or chant her words, and every expression was perfect
+in rhythm and melody.
+
+The doctor and I hesitated to say much to each other, out of deference
+to the feelings of this fair lunarian, but he took occasion to remark to
+me quietly that as she could not tell us her name just yet he proposed
+to call her Mona [Footnote: _Mona_ is old Saxon for _moon_.] for the
+present. I assented easily, as it made little difference to me what we
+called her, if she would only remain with us.
+
+It happened that the doctor, who knew everything, was well acquainted
+with dactylology and the latest sign language, used in the instruction
+of deaf mutes, and as it seemed likely that our stay in our present
+abode might be a prolonged one, he told me he would try to teach Mona to
+converse with us. I could not object, although I secretly wished I could
+have taken the place of instructor. But it soon occurred to me that I
+must be a fellow pupil, if we were all to talk in that way; and so,
+with this bond of sympathy established between us, Mona and I began our
+lessons.
+
+During the closing years of the century great progress had been made, on
+the earth, in the method of talking by arbitrary signs and motions.
+The movements of the body and limbs and the great variety of facial
+expressions were all so well adapted to the ideas to be represented that
+it was comparatively easy for an intelligent person to learn to make
+known many of his thoughts. As our studies progressed day after day
+it began to dawn on me that Mona, in spite of the disadvantage of not
+knowing our spoken language, was learning faster than I was. I was
+somewhat chagrined at this at first, but it finally turned out to my
+advantage, for the doctor announced one day that Mona had acquired all
+he knew and could thenceforth teach me if I pleased. Here was a bond
+of sympathy that I had not looked for, but I was glad enough to avail
+myself of it, and delighted to find that Mona was also pleased with
+the plan. With her for a teacher it did not take me long to finish.
+Her graceful movements made poetry of the language, and the web she was
+weaving around my heart was strengthened every hour.
+
+As Mona gradually learned to express herself to our comprehension we
+began to ask her questions about herself and her history. The doctor,
+being less under the spell of her charms than I was, showed a greater
+curiosity, and one of the first things he asked was:
+
+"When do you expect the other members of your family home?"
+
+Mona was at first puzzled, but saw his meaning as soon as the motions
+were repeated, and answered with a few simple signs:
+
+"I have no friends to come home. I am alone."
+
+The expression we put into our faces told her of our sorrow and sympathy
+better than any words, and the doctor continued:
+
+"But these other houses! Surely they are not all empty?"
+
+"Yes," she replied, "their inmates are all gone. I am the only
+inhabitant left."
+
+And then she told us from time to time that there were no other villages
+anywhere in the moon and that she was absolutely the last of her race.
+Our method of conversation was not free enough to allow her to tell us
+how she had discovered the truth of this astounding information, and
+there were a thousand other questions for whose answers we were obliged
+to wait, but not forever.
+
+The doctor and I talked freely to each other now, and playfully said
+a great many things to Mona, who, though she did not understand them,
+laughed with us and gave us much pleasure with her easy, unembarrassed
+manner and piquant ways. And she not only jabbered away with hands and
+face in the manner we had taught her, but she did not cease also to make
+life bright for us by repaying us in our own coin and talking to us in
+her natural, delicious way. With such music in the house life could not
+be dull.
+
+My infatuation increased as the days went by, and I began to seek every
+possible occasion to be alone with Mona. I often encouraged the doctor
+to go out and learn what he could of our surroundings, excusing myself
+from bearing him company on the ground that I did not think it safe to
+leave Mona alone. Or if Mona wanted to go out I would suggest to the
+doctor that I needed the exercise also, and that he really ought to
+be writing down our experiences while he had leisure, as there was no
+telling how soon the moon would land us somewhere.
+
+I did not then know whether the doctor saw through my designs or not.
+I thought not, for I did not suppose he was ever so deeply in love as
+I was. But if he did he was good enough to take my little hints and say
+nothing.
+
+On these occasions, whether Mona and I remained in the house or walked
+abroad, I wasted no time in asking her more questions about the moon or
+such trivial matters, but spent all my efforts in trying to establish
+closer personal relations between us. While she was exceedingly pleasant
+and agreeable, she did not seem to understand my feeling exactly,
+although I tried in every way to show her my heart. She was not
+coquettish, but perfectly unaffected, and simply did not realize my
+meaning. For once the sign language did not prove adequate; and so, as
+my feelings would not be controlled, I was fain to resort to my natural
+tongue, and poured forth my love to my own satisfaction if not to her
+comprehension. I did not stint the words, astonishing myself at the
+fullness of my vocabulary, and hoping that the fervor of my manner and
+the passion exhibited in my voice would make the right impression on my
+companion.
+
+Day after day, as opportunity offered, I returned to the same theme.
+Mona was sympathetic in her own charming way, but apparently not
+affected in the manner I was looking for. And still, "I love you, I love
+you," was repeated in her ears a thousand times. The fact that she did
+not understand the words made me all the more voluble, and I lavished my
+affectionate terms upon her without restraint.
+
+One day, after this had been going on for some time, the doctor came in
+from a walk and found us together as usual. He had a rare blossom in
+his hand, and stepping to Mona's side he offered it to her with some
+gallantry. She accepted it with a beaming countenance which set my
+heart to thumping, and then she burst forth in a strain so sweet that
+it thrilled my whole being and roused in me again that jealous fear that
+Mona was learning to care more for the doctor than for me. But how
+shall I describe my emotions when she suddenly blended syllables of
+our language with the accents of her song, and, still looking into the
+doctor's eyes, closed her entrancing melody with the burning words, "I
+love you"?
+
+I wonder how other men have borne such a shock as that. It seemed to me
+that by simply living during the next few minutes I was proving myself
+stronger than others. And I was able to think, too. It occurred to me
+that perhaps Mona was merely a parrot, repeating, with no perception of
+their meaning, words which she had so often heard from me. But this idea
+passed swiftly away when I remembered the warmth of her expression and
+the ardor of her manner, both of which, alas, she had also learned from
+me.
+
+As I recovered somewhat from the effects of the blow I found Mona's eyes
+were fixed on me, and she looked so innocent, so entirely unconscious
+of wrong, that if I had any anger in my heart it melted away and left
+me more her slave than ever. There was something in her behavior which
+I could not comprehend, and it was evident that she had not yet acquired
+any particular fondness for me, but these were not sufficient reasons
+to make me cease to care for her. My love was too strong to give her up,
+even after I had just heard her declare, in such a passionate way, her
+love for another. These thoughts passed through my mind as she beamed
+upon me in her radiant beauty, smiling as sweetly as ever, as if to
+encourage me still to live and hope.
+
+But how did the doctor receive this remarkable love-song? Like the
+philosopher he was. Being astonished beyond measure at what he had
+heard, he sat and pondered the subject for some minutes. What chiefly
+interested him was not the personal element in Mona's words, which was
+so vital a point to me, but the fact that she could make use of any
+words of our language. The possibilities which this fact opened up to
+him were of the greatest moment. If Mona could learn to talk freely
+she would be able to give us much information that would be of great
+scientific value. After he had pursued these thoughts a while it
+suddenly struck him that the expression she had used was a singular one
+to begin with, and he turned to me and laughingly said:
+
+"You must have taught her those words. I did not."
+
+"I shall have to acknowledge it," I replied, "but I assure you I did not
+influence her to make such use of them."
+
+"No, I suppose not; but that question is of small account beside the
+knowledge that Mona has begun to learn our speech. Now let us give all
+our attention to her instruction."
+
+We did so from that hour, the doctor from high motives of philosophy and
+philanthropy, while I was actuated by more selfish reasons. Although
+I had learned that I had been too hasty in my attempt to gain Mona's
+affections I did not despair of success. I should have to take time and
+approach the citadel of her untutored heart with more caution. In the
+pleasant task of teaching her the intricacies of the English language
+I anticipated many delightful opportunities of leading her into the
+Elysian fields of romance. If she could learn to understand fully my
+intense feeling for her I had no doubt she would return my passion. With
+such a hopeful spirit does the love god inspire his happy victims.
+
+In order to assist in the realization of these rosy fore-thoughts, I
+suggested to the doctor that each of us should take his turn in Mona's
+instruction, so as to make it as easy and informal for her as possible.
+He had no objections to make, and we began a task which proved to be
+much simpler than we had imagined. Mona had heard us talk so much
+that she had half-learned a great many words and expressions, and her
+remarkable quickness of intellect helped her to pick up their meaning
+rapidly as soon as we gave her systematic aid. Hence it was not long
+before she began to converse with considerable freedom.
+
+From the first the doctor and I had been curious to know if she
+would give up the musical tone and simply talk as we did, and we were
+pleasantly surprised to find that her song was not interrupted by the
+form of words she used. Whatever the phrase she wanted to employ she
+turned it into verse on the instant and chanted it forth in perfect
+melody. So spontaneous was every expression that her very thoughts
+seemed to be framed in harmony. Her voice was not obtrusive nor
+monotonous and generally not loud, but was always well adapted to the
+sense of what she was singing. The tones mostly used in conversation
+were low and sweet, like rippling water, but these were constantly
+varied by the introduction of notes of greater power and range.
+
+To have such use made of our rugged speech was a revelation to us, and
+words, as we employ them, are inadequate to express our enjoyment of
+Mona's song, when to its former beauty was added the clear enunciation
+of language that we could understand.
+
+It was through this rare medium that the doctor and I learned, from day
+to day, something of the history of Mona's race. The surface of the moon
+had once been peopled, as we supposed, but as the day of decay and death
+approached the outside of the globe became too inhospitable to longer
+support life. The interior had cooled and contracted, and as the solid
+crust was rigid enough to keep its place, great, sublunar caverns had
+been formed. Into these rushed the water and the atmosphere, accompanied
+by the few remaining inhabitants. The conditions were not favorable, in
+such places, to the continuation of the race, although their advanced
+knowledge in every direction prevented them from melting away suddenly.
+
+Settlements had been formed in many different sections of the moon,
+and interior communication was established between them. As the people
+gradually passed away, those who remained naturally drew nearer together
+until at last the remnant of the population of the globe were all
+gathered in the little village where we were now living. Here the
+process still went on, and year after year saw a constantly diminishing
+number. A few years before our arrival Mona's last companion, a girl
+of her own age, had died, and ever since then this tuneful creature,
+possessed of the most sunny disposition we had ever known, had lived
+alone, with the knowledge that there was not another living being in all
+the moon.
+
+"So you see," she sang, "I was as glad to find you as you were to hear
+me."
+
+"But," asked the doctor, "how did you know we were out there, nearly
+ready to be blown off into space?"
+
+"I didn't know it till I saw you. I went out to try to discover what
+was the matter with my old world. For some time I had had the queerest
+sensations imaginable. I was accustomed to being out of doors a great
+deal, and I first began to notice that I could walk and run more easily
+than before. I was becoming rather sprightly for one who was so soon
+to pass off this deserted stage. Then everything I took up seemed to
+be growing marvelously light, and I began to have a feeling that I must
+hold on to all my movable possessions, to keep them from getting away.
+After this unaccountable state of things had existed for a while, there
+came, one day, a terrible shock, which threatened to crack the moon's
+skull and rattle its fragments down upon my head. This was followed at
+intervals by similar or lighter shocks, and it was all so exceedingly
+unusual that I became very curious to know what was happening. Then all
+was quiet for many days, but when at length the quakings began again my
+natural instinct of self-preservation told me I ought not to take the
+risk of another such siege, and so I started to make my way to the
+surface by a well-known path. The trouble did not continue as I feared,
+but I kept on, fortunately for you as well as for myself, and found
+the outside world too uncomfortable a place for any of us to remain in
+longer than necessary."
+
+This halting prose represents the meaning of what Mona said, but it
+gives a feeble idea of the beauty of her poetic expressions, chanted in
+melodious phrase and in ever-changing, ever-joyous tune.
+
+We replied by explaining to her what had happened to her disjointed
+world, expressing our gratitude also for her kindness in bringing us to
+her sheltered home.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER V.
+
+OUR INTRODUCTION TO MARS.
+
+
+Ever since the doctor had been inside of the moon he had not ceased
+to regret that we had left all our goods in the car of our balloon. He
+mourned the loss of the instruments and other apparatus which had
+cost him so much care, and then there were our official papers. Our
+introduction to Mona had been rather too informal, and we thought
+we might stand better with her if we could show her our credentials,
+though, to be sure, she could not read them.
+
+Several times the doctor proposed to me that we should go out and bring
+in what we could carry if, perchance, we should find the wind had left
+us anything. But I had my own reasons for preferring to remain where we
+were. I was happy and was expecting every day to be happier still, and
+so I put the doctor off by reminding him that the weather was very bad
+outside and that we had been glad enough to get in with our lives.
+
+I think he would have agreed with me and would have been contented to
+stay if the question had been left entirely to ourselves. But Mona heard
+us talking it over one day and said we could go without much risk if we
+cared to try it, and she would go with us to take care of us.
+
+Although it would be difficult to tell how Mona could help us when we
+were outside, this idea sounded so assuring that the doctor determined
+to make the attempt. I was obliged to acquiesce, fearing, in my
+ignorance of all that was to happen to us, that the trip would keep me
+too much from Mona's side.
+
+After due preparation we started, and reached the upper end of the long
+passage without incident. But as we emerged we noticed that the light
+had a peculiar tinge of red, quite different from its usual tone.
+Meditating on this phenomenon, and speaking to each other as we could
+find breath, we ascended the side of the crater, when there burst upon
+our view a magnificent world, apparently but a little way off. Its ruddy
+face showed us plainly what had caused the red light, and the doctor
+made haste to exclaim:
+
+"Aha! let me introduce you to the planet Mars."
+
+"Yes," I replied, "and we may become too well acquainted before a great
+while if our rapid flight is not checked."
+
+We soon found our car just as we had left it, and were glad to take
+advantage of its shelter. In the new danger which loomed up before us
+so threateningly, we all agreed that it would be rash to return into
+the interior of the moon, to be crushed to death in the shock of the
+impending collision; and yet, in remaining where we were, the doctor and
+I felt that no reputable insurance company would call our lives a very
+good risk.
+
+But now was our opportunity to witness some of the depths of Mona's
+character. What was there in her nature so entirely different from
+anything we had ever known? We had seen persons of cheerful disposition
+before, and had heard of many exhibitions of courage and indifference
+to danger, but here we had the very personification of fearlessness and
+contentment. She talked freely of our situation and of what was likely
+to happen, but appeared to be as light-hearted as ever, and her song was
+just as cheerful as it had been in her quiet home. When we asked her
+if she were not afraid, she replied that there was no such word in her
+language and she could not appreciate its meaning.
+
+"Fear," said the doctor, "is a feeling excited by the apprehension of
+danger."
+
+"I think I know about the danger we are in," she answered, "but I have
+not the feeling you are trying to describe. When I was alone in my
+underground village and thought the roof was about to fall down and bury
+me there, I had no fear, as you say. I know that whatever has come to me
+or to any of my race has always been for our good, and I am sure it
+will be so in the future. I have but a short time to remain as the sole
+inhabitant of this now useless globe, and the manner of my taking off is
+not of the slightest moment. This old world's day is now passed, and
+I realize in that fact the reason for its unseemly behavior, first
+knocking its toughened crust so rudely against the earth and then
+coquetting in this manner with Mars. It certainly no longer shows any
+respect for the race it has nourished, and hence I see that my day, too,
+will soon be over. Whatever may be your fate you will doubtless see no
+more of me after this excursion is ended."
+
+In the light of history this seemed extremely probable, and yet Mona
+was not half as concerned about it as I was. I thought she ought to have
+shown more anxiety about her future for my sake if not for her own, and
+I ventured to say, although in a rather doleful tone:
+
+"I hope, Mona, if the doctor and I are freed from this peril that you
+will escape with us. If I thought there was no hope of that, I am sure
+I should propose that we return at once to the middle of the moon and be
+buried together."
+
+She laughed aloud as she sang out in joyous notes:
+
+"Your mournful voice, my ardent friend, makes me think you would not be
+very happy with the last alternative. But cheer up, we will all stand by
+each other to the last." It was in her abounding good nature and in her
+faculty for inspiring us with her own hopeful disposition that we found
+Mona fulfilling her promise to take care of us.
+
+But now our attention could not be diverted from the planet which was
+rapidly growing before our eyes. As we approached nearer and nearer
+every minute, flying at such a terrific rate and aimed, apparently, for
+a direct collision, it may be imagined that the doctor and I, in spite
+of Mona's presence, began to be exceedingly anxious lest our journey and
+our lives should meet an abrupt and common end.
+
+Unless such excursions as ours become more frequent in the future, it
+will probably always remain a mystery how this one came to a close.
+I can only relate our experience during the time that we retained our
+consciousness, and leave the imagination to picture the rest. As we
+entered the atmosphere of the planet, the rush of air increased till it
+seemed as if a hundred Niagaras were sounding in our ears. I remember
+having a dim feeling of satisfaction in the belief that such a violent
+contact with the atmosphere must impede the moon's progress, and offer
+us some chance of landing in safety. Then I was bereft of all sense, and
+when I regained consciousness I was lying in the bottom of our car in
+perfect quiet and apparently unharmed.
+
+I called aloud for the doctor, but no voice replied. Rising, I looked
+about me and found I was afloat on a ruddy sea, alone, as far as my
+senses could inform me, alone in a new world. Such a sensation of
+homesickness came over me, such a longing for human fellowship, that our
+former lonesome condition on the moon seemed like a paradise compared to
+my present wretchedness.
+
+So this was Mars, which we had studied with our telescopes and about
+whose condition and history we had so often speculated. And now, as I
+leaned my elbows on the edge of the car and gazed off over the deep, I
+wondered, with more interest than I had ever before possessed, if the
+world I had discovered were inhabited. Perhaps because it was such a
+vital question with me, my naturally hopeful disposition began to find
+reasons for a cheerful view. There were certainly favorable evidences
+all about me. I was breathing an atmosphere evidently made for lungs
+like mine. The air was soft and pleasant, and though I was drenched with
+water by my fall I was not uncomfortable. I tasted the water and, oh!
+joyful reminder of home, it was salt. The sun shed a beautiful light
+around me, and as I glanced upward to see how bright and cheerful the
+sky was, my reverie was suddenly broken off, for directly over my head,
+poised as quietly as if it had always been there, was our old moon. It
+seemed but a few miles away and I gazed at it with mixed feelings, with
+thankfulness that I had escaped from its inhospitable surface with
+my life, and with scorn for its present behavior. For there it was,
+apparently perfectly at home and ready to bear the torch for Mars as
+faithfully as it always had for the earth, its rightful mistress.
+
+"Inconstancy," I cried, "thy name is Luna."
+
+[Illustration: THORWALD DISCOVERS ONE OF THE EARTH-DWELLERS.]
+
+When the novelty of this sensational discovery was gone, my mind
+returned to the contemplation of myself, and my situation seemed to me
+so unique as to remove some of the natural feeling of fear. When one is
+shipwrecked in the ordinary way his anxiety is caused by the uncertainty
+that anyone will come to his rescue; while in my case I did not even
+know there was anyone to come. But when I looked up at the moon and
+remembered its erratic climate and our wild, unearthly journey, I could
+not suppress a feeling of satisfaction with my changed condition. If
+the doctor had only been with me we would have been able to extract
+considerable comfort from our surroundings. But, as it was, I was very
+lonesome, and whatever consolation I got from my reasoning about the
+planet's habitability was increased a thousand fold by seeing a speck
+upon the horizon, which I hoped might prove to be a sail. I watched
+it with intense interest, and was not disappointed. I will not try to
+describe my feelings as this ship of Mars approached me, while I sat
+wondering what manner of men I should see. The first thing that struck
+me was the enormous size of the craft, and as it drew near I could see
+that it was manned by beings proportionately large. I now began to fear
+I should be run down, but soon I noticed one of the passengers or crew
+who seemed to be looking at me through a glass. In a little while the
+vessel slowed up, and a boat was put off in which a number of giants,
+including the man with the glass, rowed toward me. When they had nearly
+reached me I heard the latter say to the others:
+
+"Yes, this is surely the little fellow we are searching for."
+
+I could not imagine what he meant by this, although it occurred to me
+that it was a pleasant thing to have him speak good, plain English; but
+the other circumstances were so entirely novel that, instead of opening
+the conversation with some conventional remark, like a sensible person,
+I burst out with:
+
+"But Proctor says Mars has passed its life-bearing period."
+
+I hardly knew what I said, but it proved that they were just the words
+to commend me to my new friend, for as he reached over and lifted me
+into the boat he said:
+
+"Why, how did you know Proctor? You must have misunderstood him, for he
+would never say such a thing as that."
+
+While I was puzzling over this strange speech he continued:
+
+"I think we have some one in the ship whom you will be glad to see."
+
+I began to fear I should not get on very well in Mars if all the
+inhabitants talked in such riddles, but I said, as politely as I could:
+
+"I am sure I need not wait to get to the ship to be pleased. I am
+delighted to see you and your companions here."
+
+While we were returning to the vessel I gave Thorwald, for such I found
+to be his name, a brief account of our journey on the moon and of my
+mysterious arrival on their planet. I expatiated on the merits of the
+doctor, and told Thorwald that he was probably still on the moon or else
+at the bottom of their ocean.
+
+I was thinking that Thorwald did not show much sympathy with me, when,
+our boat having nearly reached the ship's side, I looked up and saw the
+doctor himself standing on the deck, a pigmy among giants. I was soon by
+his side, and we embraced before our new-found friends without a blush.
+
+"Where's Mona?" were the first words he said.
+
+"Mona!" I replied. "Who's Mona?"
+
+"Who's Mona?" he returned. "Well, you have recovered pretty rapidly."
+
+I now discovered that, although I had found the body of my friend, the
+best part of him was missing. In the fall from the moon he had evidently
+lost his wits. I thought I would not let him know too suddenly what was
+the matter, and so I merely said:
+
+"Yes, I went into the water, but was not much hurt. When I came to my
+senses I found myself in our car still. Tell me how you escaped."
+
+"Oh, I happened to fall near this ship, fortunately, and they picked me
+up, and then, at my request, they set out to search for you and Mona."
+
+"Well," said I, "you found me, and I am very thankful for it, but Mona I
+fear you will never see."
+
+"What was the last you saw of her?" he asked.
+
+I had great difficulty in keeping myself from laughing in the doctor's
+face at his odd fancy, but the thought came to me with some force that I
+must not let his mental condition become known to the men of Mars around
+us; and so, instead of replying to his question, I turned to Thorwald
+and asked him if he could tell us how the moon had landed us so easily
+on their planet.
+
+In answer he gave it as his opinion that as the moon came rushing toward
+them so swiftly it compressed the air in its path to such a degree
+that it acted as a cushion, preventing a collision and sending the moon
+bounding back over the path by which it had come. Probably at the moment
+when it was nearest the surface, we had fallen off into the ocean.
+The rebound, he supposed, was not sufficient to carry it beyond the
+attraction of the planet, and so it poised itself and began to make a
+revolution around Mars in its old-fashioned way.
+
+Thorwald told us we had taken the best possible time to visit them, for
+Mars had not been so near the earth before in a great while.
+
+Our new acquaintances were from nine to ten feet tall and
+proportionately large every other way, so that they appeared quite
+monstrous to us. But they were agile and even graceful in their
+movements, while in manner they were so gentle and pleasing that we
+recognized at once their high culture.
+
+The vessel was soon under way and made rapid progress, and though our
+voyage was not very long, it proved to be an exceedingly profitable one
+to the doctor and me, for we learned more, through conversation with our
+new friends, about the history and condition of Mars than we could have
+gained in any other way. The men were all kind to us and seemed to be
+all equally able to impart information, but most of our intercourse was
+with Thorwald. He gave us much of his time, at intervals as he could be
+spared from work, for every man helped at the service of the ship. There
+seemed to be no system of leadership, but all appeared to know what was
+to be done, and did it without orders and without clashing.
+
+As we entered into conversation about the earth and Mars, I was
+surprised to find the doctor taking his full share in it with his usual
+intelligence. His questions and answers were all so pertinent that I
+should have supposed his mind was entirely unaffected, had I not known
+to the contrary. When I saw he could hold his own so well, I determined
+to take the first opportunity when we were alone to ask him again who
+Mona was.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VI
+
+A REMARKABLE PEOPLE.
+
+
+The conversation with our new friends was not all on one side, for we
+had many questions to answer about the earth, the Martian mind showing
+as great a thirst for knowledge as ours. One of the first things
+Thorwald said after we had settled down to a good talk was:
+
+"But, Doctor, your little head is so full of thought that it seems to me
+you ought not to have been surprised to find us so large here. You knew
+before you came that Mars is much smaller than the earth and, therefore,
+the attraction of gravitation being less, that everything can grow more
+easily. Things may as well be one size as another if only they are well
+adapted to each other, and we would never have known we were large or
+that you were small had we not been brought together. In the sight of
+Him who made both the earth and Mars, and fashioned one for you and the
+other for us, we are neither great nor small. In fact, size is never
+absolute but only relative."
+
+"That is very clear to us now," said the doctor, "and I promise not to
+be surprised again, even when I walk the streets of your cities and see
+you in your houses."
+
+"Then, Doctor," said I, "if we had found inhabitants on the moon what
+great folks they must have seemed to us."
+
+This was an exceedingly foolish remark for me to make, for it resulted
+in the doctor's almost betraying his condition to our friends.
+
+Of course Thorwald was interested in what I said, and eagerly inquired:
+
+"So you found no inhabitants in the moon?"
+
+"Just one," spoke up the doctor quickly.
+
+"What! you found one and left him there?"
+
+"It was a woman," said the doctor.
+
+This talk had been so rapid that I had not had a chance to interfere,
+but I saw that I must stop it now for the doctor's sake. When I could
+see him alone I could tell him his memory was playing him a trick and he
+must avoid that subject. So, before Thorwald could speak again, I said:
+
+"Let me suggest, Thorwald, that we let the moon rest till we have heard
+more of Mars, which I am sure is of greater importance. We have told you
+many things in regard to our planet, and are willing to answer all the
+questions you may please to ask from time to time, but now we would like
+to listen a while."
+
+"Yes," said the doctor, "we started on this expedition to add to our
+scientific knowledge, and we seem in a fair way to accomplish our
+purpose; so that, if you will find a way to send us back to the earth
+some time, I think our friends will admit that we have been successful.
+But first we want to learn all we can about this wonderful world. How
+long has your race existed? Our astronomers tell us Mars is too old
+to be inhabited, and, considering some of my own recent experiences in
+finding my science unreliable, it rather consoles me to discover that
+they are mistaken."
+
+"They are right," Thorwald answered, "in believing that Mars is very
+old, and so our race is nearing its maturity. It is impossible to
+judge accurately of the age of the planet itself, but we know it is
+exceedingly old from the evidences of changes that have taken place on
+its surface. Neither can we tell when our race was born, though we have
+legends and traditions dating back fifty thousand years, and authentic
+history for nearly half that time."
+
+The doctor and myself now began to realize that we had indeed something
+to learn from these people, and I remarked:
+
+"These figures astonish us, Thorwald, and you can hardly understand how
+interested we are. But please continue. From what little I have seen
+I should think you are much farther advanced in everyway than the
+inhabitants of the earth."
+
+"We believe," replied the Martian, "that our planet is much older
+than the earth, and if we are right in that it is but natural that our
+civilization should be older also. If the tendency of mind is toward
+perfection, if in your experience you have found that, in the main, men
+look upward more than downward, what would you expect to find in a world
+so beautiful as this and where life has existed so long? From what we
+know of our own history and from what we have learned of the worlds
+around us, we believe the life-bearing period of Mars has long since
+passed its middle point, and that both our planet and our race have
+passed through convulsions and changes to which other worlds, perhaps
+the earth, are now subjected."
+
+This appeared so reasonable that I said to him:
+
+"We must believe that Mars is an afternoon planet. And now we want to
+hear whatever you may choose to tell us about your civilization."
+
+"That is a broad subject," replied Thorwald, "but it is something I like
+to talk about. If I judge rightly of what you have already told me of
+the earth and its people, I think we were in just about your situation
+ages ago and that we have merely matured. That is, the causes now
+at work on the earth are having in us their legitimate effect. These
+processes are slow but sure. To the Infinite time is of no more
+importance in itself than is size.
+
+"I know of no better topic to begin with," continued Thorwald, "than the
+matter of government. You wondered at the peculiar discipline on board
+this ship. It is but a type of what you will find on land. We have
+no government in its strict sense, for there is no one that needs
+governing. We have organization for mutual help in many ways, but no
+rulers nor legislators. The only government is that of the family. Here
+character is formed so that when the children go forth into the world no
+one desires to wrong his neighbor. We know from our histories of all
+the struggles our ancestors passed through before the days of universal
+peace and brotherhood. Now we go and come as we please, with no fear of
+harm. We are all one nation because all national boundaries have
+been obliterated, and we have a common language. There are no laws
+of compulsion or restraint, for all do by instinct what is best for
+themselves and their neighbors."
+
+"Oh, happy Mars!" here broke in the usually prosaic doctor. "That sounds
+like a story. And yet what is it," he continued, addressing me, "but
+the effect of perfect obedience to our golden rule? If men should really
+learn to do to others as they would have others do to them, what a
+transformation it would accomplish."
+
+"So that is what you call the golden rule, is it?" asked Thorwald. "And
+are you all trying to live by it?"
+
+"Well," I replied, "that is what many of us profess to be doing, but I
+must say we fall far, very far short of the mark. I do not know a single
+inhabitant of the earth, with the possible exception of my companion
+here, who fully obeys that command."
+
+The doctor's smile was not lost on Thorwald, who replied:
+
+"It was rather too bad of you to bring so far away from the earth the
+only good man the planet contained; but I am glad to know the golden
+rule, as you may well call it, has been given to men. We have had
+the same here, and, oh! if I could make you realize something of the
+struggle our race has had in working it into life and practice, you
+would gain some hope for the people of the earth. I mean, the result of
+this struggle would give you hope, for I am not ashamed to say that
+we are now living up to the full requirements of this law, and if you
+should spend the remainder of your lives with us I am sure you would not
+find my statement untrue. It is only by actually loving our neighbors
+as ourselves that we are able to live as we do. The law of love has
+replaced the law of force. It is well for you to understand this at
+the beginning, for it is the secret of our wonderful success in all the
+higher forms of civilization."
+
+"It must have helped you greatly," said I, "in the matter of which you
+have just been speaking, that of government."
+
+"Yes, it has," he replied. "In our histories we have full accounts of
+the long course of events when we were divided into hundreds of nations,
+each with its own pride and ambition, and each striving to build up
+itself upon the misfortunes or the ruins of its neighbors. You can
+perhaps imagine what a mass of material we have for reading and study."
+
+"We can," spoke up the student doctor, "and it fairly makes my mouth
+water. But tell us briefly, Thorwald, how you ever passed from those
+troublous times to the blissful state in which we now find you."
+
+"The transition was exceedingly slow; it seemed, in fact, impossible
+that such a change could ever be effected. But it began with the
+establishment of universal peace, which was demanded by the growing
+spirit of brotherly love, and assisted by commercial reciprocity and a
+world language. Gradually national boundaries were found to be only an
+annoyance, and in time--a long time, of course--we became one nation
+and finally no nation. For now no one exercises any authority over his
+neighbors, since the need for all artificial distinctions has long since
+passed away."
+
+"Then," said I, "you have no doubt lost all fear and anxiety over the
+conflicting interests of capital and labor."
+
+"Yes," replied Thorwald, "for we have no such distinctions in society as
+rich and poor, workingmen and capitalists. We all work as we please,
+but there is so little to do that no one is burdened, and one cannot be
+richer than another because all the material bounties of nature and art
+are common to all, being as free as the air. I suppose, as this seems to
+be strange talk to you, that you cannot realize what it is to belong to
+a society where everyone considers the interests of his neighbor as much
+as his own. You will find when you reach that point that most of your
+troubles will be gone, as ours are."
+
+"Our troubles!" said the doctor. "Many of our troubles, to be sure,
+arise from our passions and appetites--in other words, from our
+selfishness--and these will no doubt disappear when we reach that
+blessed state of which you have spoken, a condition prayed for and
+dimly expected by many of our race. But other troubles of ours come from
+sickness and severe toil, from accidents, famines, and the convulsions
+of nature. How, for example, can you have escaped the latter, unless,
+indeed, God has helped those who have so wisely helped themselves?"
+
+"Your last thought is right," answered our friend. "Nature has certainly
+assisted us. While the crust of the planet was thin we know the central
+fires heaved and shook the ground and burst forth from the mountains,
+causing great destruction and keeping the world in fear. We do not know
+how thick the crust of the planet now is, but nothing has been felt of
+those inner convulsions for many ages. One of our feats of engineering
+has been to see how far we could penetrate into the surface of the
+globe. A well of vast size has been dug, the temperature being carefully
+noted and observations made of the many different substances passed
+through--water, coal, gas, oil, and all kinds of mineral deposits. The
+work has progressed from one generation to another, and no one can tell
+when it will be called finished, as it is determined to dig toward the
+center of the planet as fast as our ever-increasing skill will permit."
+
+"Did you find out how thick the crust is?" I asked.
+
+"No," he answered, "we are not much nearer the solution of that question
+than before, but we have made valuable discoveries as to what the crust
+is composed of. The temperature has gradually, though slowly, increased,
+and we believe the time will come when the work will have to be
+abandoned on account of the heat. We have gone far enough to know that
+when the fuel on the surface of our globe is all used up we shall only
+have to tap the center to get all the heat we want."
+
+"What a capital idea that will be," I interrupted, "to throw at some of
+our pessimistic friends on the earth, Doctor."
+
+"We see now, Thorwald," my companion said, "that your planet is too old
+to give you any more trouble from earthquake and volcano, but how about
+other natural phenomena, the tempest and cyclone for example?"
+
+"Well," replied Thorwald, "we have a theory that time, the great healer,
+has cured these evils also. Let me ask, Doctor, if the earth ever
+receives any accretions of matter from outside its own atmosphere?"
+
+"Yes, we have the fall of meteorites, foreign substances which we
+believe the earth encounters in its path around the sun."
+
+"I supposed such must be the case," Thorwald continued. "And now, when
+you consider the great age of Mars, perhaps you will not be surprised
+to learn that this new matter, coming to us from the outside, was
+sufficient to increase the weight of our globe and gradually decrease
+the rate of speed at which we were traveling through space."
+
+"I am surprised, though," said the doctor, "because the accumulation of
+meteorolites on the surface of the earth is so exceedingly slow that
+it would take millions of years, at the present rate, to increase its
+diameter one inch."
+
+"But perhaps they came much faster in past ages. Let me ask you, Doctor,
+if it is not a fact that the rate of revolution of Mars around the sun
+is slower than the earth's? I suppose you are far enough advanced in
+astronomical science to answer that."
+
+"Yes," replied the doctor, "you are correct. I believe the earth speeds
+along at nineteen miles a second, while Mars travels only sixteen miles
+in the same time."
+
+"We know by our computations that our speed is much less than it once
+was, and our theory is that this has in some way hushed those terrible
+storms and winds which we know were formerly so frequent."
+
+Here the doctor thought he saw a chance to make a point, and spoke as
+follows:
+
+"If the meteorites come in quantities sufficient to have caused such
+changes, it seems to me their fall must be as great a menace to your
+peace as the evils they have cured. They do not strike the earth in
+large numbers, but still we have a record of a shower of meteoric stones
+which devastated a whole village. I suppose all parts of your globe
+are by this time well populated, and how can you be entirely free from
+trouble when you are living in constant danger of the downfall of these
+great masses of rock?"
+
+"But we don't have meteorites now," replied Thorwald.
+
+"Oh, you don't?"
+
+"No, they ceased falling long ago. Mars is going slow enough for the
+present."
+
+"Very kind of them, I am sure, to stop when you didn't need them any
+longer," said the doctor; "and I suppose you have some plausible reason
+to give for their disappearance."
+
+"Yes, we believe that the interplanetary space was well filled
+with these small bodies, circling around the sun, and when their
+multitudinous and eccentric orbits intercepted the orbits of the
+planets, they came within the attraction of these larger masses. Mars
+has merely, in the course of time, cleared for itself a broad path
+in its yearly journey and is now encountering no more straggling
+fragments."
+
+"There, Doctor," said I, "you are well answered. And now, Thorwald, tell
+us how you have escaped other evils, famine and fire for instance."
+
+"Fire," continued our friend, "was one of the first foes subdued. We
+quite early learned to make our habitations and everything about us of
+fireproof materials, and, if I mistake not, you on the earth will not
+long endure an enemy which can be so easily put down. You will find all
+materials can be so treated with chemicals as to be absolutely safe from
+the flames. We have fire only when and where we desire it.
+
+"When you speak of famines you touch a more difficult subject, but here,
+too, time and skill have wrought wonderful changes. In our histories we
+read of the time when the weather was chiefly noted for its fickleness,
+and when some parts of our globe were mere desert wastes, where rain
+was unknown and no life could exist. And in the inhabited portions one
+section would often be deluged with too much rain while another would
+have none, both conditions leading to a failure in agriculture and much
+consequent suffering. A long time was spent in gathering statistics,
+which finally proved that if the rainfall were distributed there would
+be just about enough to water sufficiently the whole surface of the
+globe. Nature provided rain enough, but it did not always fall where and
+when it was most needed. It seemed to be left with us to find a remedy
+for this apparent evil. When I say 'us' in this way I mean our race as a
+whole, for most of these changes took place many ages ago.
+
+"Our philosophers had seen so many difficulties removed and improvements
+made in things supposed to be fixed that they began, once upon a time,
+to assert that rain and snow and the weather in general ought to
+be subject to our will. They said that in the advanced state of
+civilization toward which we were progressing it would seem to be
+an anomalous thing that we should continue to be subjected to the
+annoyances of so changeable a tyrant as the weather. We seemed destined
+to gain control of so many of the forces of nature that our future
+mastery in this department looked to them reasonable. For a long time
+these views appeared fanciful to the many, but this did not deter a few
+enthusiasts from study and experiment. As knowledge and skill increased
+we began, little by little, to gain control of the elements; but do not
+imagine it was anything less than a slow and laborious work.
+
+"First, as we learned something of the laws which control the
+precipitation of the moisture suspended in the atmosphere, we discovered
+a way to produce rain by mechanical means. As this discovery was
+gradually developed we found we had really solved the problem. For, as
+there was only a certain amount of moisture taken up into the air, the
+quantity of rain could not be increased nor diminished, and so when we
+made it rain in one place it was always at the expense of the rainfall
+somewhere else.
+
+"Since those early days vast improvement has been made, until now these
+laws, once so mysterious and so perplexing, are obedient to our service.
+The whole face of our planet has been reclaimed, and drouth and famine
+on the one hand and floods on the other are entirely unknown. Each
+section of country is given rain or snow or sunshine just as it needs
+it, and there is no uncertainty in the matter."
+
+When Thorwald had reached this point my curiosity prompted me to ask him
+to tell us in a few words how they could make it rain when they pleased,
+and he answered that he would be glad to give us details of all these
+matters if we insisted on it, but he thought it would be better for him
+to present a general view of the state of their society, leaving it for
+us to see with our own eyes how things were done, after we had reached
+our destination.
+
+I readily acquiesced, with an apology for my interruption, and Thorwald
+resumed:
+
+"The doctor spoke of accidents, sickness, and severe toil as among the
+sources of your troubles. With us, at the present day, all natural
+laws are so well understood and so faithfully obeyed that there are no
+accidents. Machinery and appliances of all kinds are perfect; nothing is
+left to chance, but everything is governed by law. And as we follow that
+law in every instance nothing can ever happen, in the old sense of that
+word. To take a homely example, you have of course learned that it is
+not well to put your hand into the fire, and so, though you use a good
+deal of fire you keep your hands out of it. You know what the law is,
+and you do not tempt it. By our long experience we have learned the
+operation of all laws, and in every position in life we simply avoid
+putting our hand into the fire. To be sure, we have been assisted in
+this by superior skill and by our general steadiness and ripeness of
+character. If I read history aright accidents were caused by ignorance
+or neglect of law, and I am sure the people of the earth, when they
+begin to realize fully how unnecessary they are, will soon outgrow them.
+
+"As for sickness, you cannot understand how strange the word sounds to
+me. Just think for a moment how useless, how out of place, such a
+thing as sickness is. Like the subject just spoken of, it comes from
+disobedience to law, and although I know we were a long time in ridding
+ourselves of it, it seems to me now that it must be one of the easiest
+of your troubles to remove. With us the science of medicine became so
+perfect that it accomplished a great deal of the reform, but more was
+done by each individual acquiring full knowledge of himself and acting
+up to that knowledge. In learning to love our neighbors we did not
+forget to foster a proper love for ourselves. In fact, our creed
+teaches that self-love is one of our most important duties. When one is
+instructed to love his neighbor as himself it is presupposed that his
+affection for himself is of that high quality that will always lead
+him to do the very best he can for every part of his being. So, as our
+development continued, we came in time to love ourselves too well to
+despise or abuse or neglect the bodies we lived in. We studied how
+best to nurture and care for those bodies, and when that lesson was
+thoroughly learned we found that sickness and pain were gone, and with
+them, also, all fear of death. For now we die when our days are fully
+ended. The span of our life has been doubled since we began to know
+and care for ourselves, and, at the close, death is anticipated and
+recognized as a friend."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VII.
+
+RAPID TRANSIT ON MARS.
+
+
+Here Thorwald paused and said he should be obliged to leave us a short
+time to attend to some duty in the management of the vessel. When he
+returned I remarked that neither he nor his companions seemed to have to
+work very hard.
+
+"That," he answered, "is just the thought I want to speak of next, as
+the doctor has said many earthly troubles arise from severe labor. Here
+there is no hard work for us. It is all done by some kind of mechanism.
+Look at the handling of this ship, in which, as you say, no one is
+burdened. The hard and disagreeable parts of the work are taken out
+of our hands and are put into the hand of machinery, which in its
+perfection is almost intelligent. It is so in all departments of work.
+Inventions looking toward the saving of labor have closely followed each
+other for so many years that their object is about accomplished, and all
+the pain and sorrow accompanying daily toil are things of the dead past.
+Even our animals are relieved from distressing labor and share with
+us the blessings of an advanced civilization, every heavy weight being
+raised and every burdensome load being drawn by an arm of steel or
+aluminum, which neither tires nor feels. We do not need to pity a
+machine. Why should flesh and blood, whether of dumb beasts or of more
+intelligent beings, suffer the agony of labor when the work can be
+better done by mechanical means?
+
+"While speaking of the lower animals I may as well say here that we have
+no wild beasts. All have been tamed; not merely brought into subjection,
+but made the friends and companions in a sense of our higher race. Every
+animal, large and small, has lost its power and will to harm us. The
+wasp has lost its sting, the serpent its poison, and the tiger its
+desire to tear. And not only is their enmity to us all gone, but they no
+longer prey upon each other. Perfect peace reigns in this realm also."
+
+"What has brought about this highly interesting condition?" I asked.
+"Was there a natural tendency toward perfection on the part of the
+beasts?"
+
+"No," replied Thorwald, "I think not. The change has been accomplished
+by us. Nothing that has life could help being uplifted by contact with
+our ever-expanding civilization. We believe the chief factor in working
+this great betterment in the animal creation has been our success in
+entirely eliminating flesh as an article of food. We early came to see
+it was not necessary for ourselves and that without it we were much
+better prepared to assume the higher duties belonging to our advanced
+life. We then began to experiment with the animals nearest us. It was
+a slow and discouraging task at first, but finally we obtained results
+that gave us hope of success. We found in the course of many years that
+the digestive organs of the animals on which we were experimenting were
+gradually becoming accustomed to a vegetable diet. We continued the
+work, extending it to one class of animals after another, until in time
+all carnivorous instincts disappeared."
+
+This interested the doctor exceedingly, and he remarked that he should
+think there would have been some kinds of animals that would resist all
+efforts to work such a change in them; but Thorwald answered:
+
+"I have never read of such cases, but if there were any the species must
+have become extinct, for now, in all this world, no conscious life is
+taken to support another life. No blood is let for our refreshment and
+no minutest creature is pursued and slain to appease the appetite of its
+stronger neighbor."
+
+"Does this condition extend even to the fish of the sea?" inquired the
+doctor.
+
+"Even to the fish of the sea," answered the Martian.
+
+"Now that you discover," he continued, "what improvement has been
+wrought in the lower animals, you can understand that their comfort is
+an object of our solicitude, and that we take great pleasure in knowing
+that they are relieved from all hard labor."
+
+"But you haven't told us," said I, "what is the source of the power that
+does all your work."
+
+"Let me ask," replied Thorwald, "if you have begun to use electricity
+yet?"
+
+"Yes," I answered, "we are trying to harness it, but it is still far
+from obedient to us."
+
+"I perceive," said our friend, "from this and other things you have
+told me, that your development is going on in about the order which has
+prevailed on Mars. Do not be discouraged in your efforts to bring that
+mysterious and wonderful agent, electricity, into complete subjection.
+You will find it your most useful servant, and in connection with
+aluminum it will enable you to solve numerous problems and remove many
+difficulties from your path of progress.
+
+"Here we have made full use of both of these valuable helps. Electricity
+enters into every department of life.
+
+"It runs our errands, takes us from place to place, builds our houses,
+cooks our food, and even is applied to the growth of our food when we
+are in haste for any article. Its laws are so well understood that there
+is no fear of personal injury from its use, and I will show you how
+familiar an aid it is to us. Here," he continued, taking from his
+pocket a brightly polished case of metal, "is a compact storage battery,
+containing, not electricity itself, of course, but elements so prepared
+that a simple touch will start into motion a powerful current, able to
+perform almost any task I may ask of it. This case, you see, is so small
+and light that it is no burden, and yet it contains power enough to
+serve me for many days. Of course, all our work of a fixed character
+has appliances with the power permanently attached, and these portable
+reservoirs are carried about with us only for detached and unexpected
+tasks."
+
+To my experienced eye the doctor's face looked a little skeptical at
+this last remark, and he said:
+
+"But how can the power be applied in these emergencies? Suppose, for
+example, it were necessary for you to go from here to the other end of
+this vessel in half a second, how would the electricity in your box help
+you do it?"
+
+"If I really thought, Doctor, you wanted to be rid of me I would be
+tempted to try it; but, as I told your companion just now, you had
+better learn all you can of our history before you begin to see what we
+can do.
+
+"I haven't told you half of the wonders performed by this marvelous
+power. It has long been our chief reliance for rapid traveling. You find
+us in this ship; but, although navigation is a perfected science, this
+mode of traveling is tedious, and ships are used only for pleasure and
+such out-of-the-way trips as this. Journeys from place to place over
+established routes are made in large tubes, in which the cars are
+propelled by electricity. These tubes run both on land and water, being
+suspended in the latter a little way below the surface. Both tubes and
+cars are air-tight, and the adjustment is so perfect that the cars slide
+along with the greatest ease. Riding in an air-tight chamber would not
+be pleasant if much time were to be occupied in that way, but the cars
+are propelled so swiftly that the time from one station to another is
+hardly appreciable. At every stop the cars are opened and apparatus set
+in motion which changes the air completely almost in a moment. Where the
+tubes run under water shafts for air are put in at the stations. There
+is always a double line, one tube for each direction. No chance is left
+for accidents.
+
+"Of course we navigate the air, swiftly and safely. If not in too much
+haste we always take the aerial passage, and often on a pleasant day the
+sky over a great city will be as full of air ships, or balloons as we
+still sometimes call them, as its harbor is of pleasure boats. In this
+department inventors had a fruitful field, the use of aluminum offering
+abundant opportunity for the greatest variety of devices, and the
+development of the flying machine was one of the most interesting
+features in the march toward our present high civilization. Perhaps the
+presence of so many electrical machines in the air and the utilization
+of so much electricity on land and water have, after thousands of years,
+done much toward freeing us from the thunderstorm, with its deadly
+lightning. We have fairly robbed the clouds of their electricity and
+taught it to do our work.
+
+"Swift and economical as our modern electric cars are, there is one
+mode of traveling sometimes adopted which is more rapid still, and
+the cheapest and in some respects the easiest way of getting over the
+surface of the globe ever dreamed of. It was discovered by accident,
+just before accidents entirely ceased, in the following manner:
+
+"A couple of scientific enthusiasts, of the kind we call cranks--I don't
+know what you call them on the earth--conceived the idea that they
+could find something better to take the place of the highly purified and
+buoyant gases which we used in our flying machines. They observed, in
+the lofty flights they were accustomed to make into the air, that as
+they ascended the atmosphere grew lighter, and this led them to think
+they might go far into the upper regions, collect large quantities of
+rarefied air, bring it down, and use it for floating flying machines. Of
+course, they understood that any vessel this thin air was put into must
+be strong enough to prevent being collapsed by the weight of the denser
+atmosphere on the surface. But they thought small spherical vessels of
+very thin metal could be made that would withstand this pressure and
+still hold enough to float and carry some weight besides. They had a
+large number of these hollow balls made and started on a trial trip,
+expecting to bring down only a small quantity each time. But, in their
+endeavor to obtain the very best quality of lifting material possible,
+they went much higher than they intended, although this did not cause
+them as much inconvenience as might have been expected, since they were
+provided with the latest improved breathing apparatus. The result of
+their adventure, however, was a discovery of such magnitude that it
+drove from their minds all thought of their real errand and we never
+again heard of that project. After remaining at an extreme height a few
+hours, the surface of the planet being hidden by clouds, they began
+to descend, and when they were near enough to see the features of the
+country below them, everything looked strange and unknown. They could
+not account for this, but continued their fall, fully persuaded that it
+must be their own world and not some other which they were approaching.
+But even if they had not been correct in that, they could hardly have
+been more surprised than they were to find, on landing, that they were
+almost exactly on the opposite side of the globe from the place where
+they made the ascent. They seemed to have traveled half way around the
+world in that incredibly short space of time, when in reality they had
+remained stationary and the world had traveled around them. The fact is,
+they had risen above all the denser portion of the planet's atmosphere,
+and had reached a stratum of extremely rarefied air, which, it seems,
+does not accompany the globe in its revolution. Of course, the facts
+were at once heralded to the four quarters of the world, and the two
+aerial travelers found themselves famous. But they did not wish to
+let such an astounding discovery rest upon the results of a single
+experiment, and so they proved themselves worthy of their new fame
+by going home the way they came. That is, they mounted their flying
+machine, rose again to the same lofty height, remained there about the
+same time as before, descended, and were near their home."
+
+Here the doctor asked:
+
+"And has this singular mode of traveling become popular, Thorwald?"
+
+"For long distances east and west it is often resorted to. But I presume
+you are asking yourself whether you could introduce it on the earth.
+When you return and begin to think it over you will probably see so many
+practical difficulties in the way that you will not attempt it. You must
+have patience. All these things will come to your race in time."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VIII.
+
+THORWALD PUZZLED.
+
+
+"I fear," continued Thorwald, "that I am wearying you with this long
+talk."
+
+We assured him we were enjoying it too much to think of being tired, and
+hoped he would not stop. But he said he had some duties to attend to,
+and would take us to his room and leave us by ourselves for a while.
+
+As soon as we were alone the doctor looked at me with a smile and said:
+
+"Why did you act so queerly when I spoke of Mona?"
+
+"Why did you speak so?" I asked in reply. "And how could you tell
+Thorwald we found one inhabitant on the moon?"
+
+"Did you want to have me tell him a falsehood?"
+
+"Of course not. I tried to catch your eye and keep you from saying any
+thing on the subject till we could consult in regard to it. If we are
+going to color our narrative in order to make it more marvelous we must
+at least make our stories agree."
+
+"My friend," said the doctor, "I am now confirmed in my suspicion that
+your brain was affected by your fall from the moon."
+
+I saw by this time that I need not hesitate further to tell the doctor
+the truth. I disliked the task, but I saw it would not be safe to leave
+him any longer in ignorance of his condition. There as no telling what
+other preposterous tales he might invent. So I said to him gently:
+
+"Doctor, your last remark makes it easier for me to tell you that the
+first words you said to me on this vessel showed me that you were not
+right. I kept it from our new friends here, and I thought I had better
+tell you how you are, so you can be a little cautious. You talk all
+right on most subjects, but you will do well to avoid the moon as a
+topic of conversation. If the others ask any more questions about the
+moon, you can just let me answer them."
+
+I said all this seriously enough, but the doctor laughed boisterously as
+he answered:
+
+"Well, if this isn't a joke. You think I am crazy, and I know you are
+crazy, and I can prove it. I will just ask you one question, which
+please answer truthfully. Don't you remember Mona?"
+
+"Oh, there is Mona again! Don't you see that only proves your own
+madness? No, I don't remember Mona, and you don't either."
+
+"I must say," returned the doctor, "I never expected to see you get over
+your infatuation so quickly."
+
+"What direction did my infatuation, as you call it, take?"
+
+"Marriage, I should say."
+
+"Now you interest me," I returned, "and you must tell me more. Is
+this Mona of yours the sole resident of the moon, of whom you spoke to
+Thorwald?"
+
+"Certainly she is, but you surely must be out of your head to call her
+my Mona--I want no stronger proof."
+
+"How so?" I asked.
+
+"Why, because but yesterday you scarce wanted to have me speak to her.
+You tried to keep your jealousy from me, but there was not room enough
+in all the moon to hide it."
+
+"This is very laughable," I exclaimed.
+
+"You did not think so then. But let me try to bring it all back to you
+by another question. Don't you remember her voice?"
+
+"Most truly I do not. Why, what was the matter with her voice? Was
+it loud and harsh, or was it squeaky? I cannot imagine anything very
+pleasant in the way of a voice in such a wild and withered home as the
+moon would make."
+
+"True," answered the doctor, "as to the outside, but you forget our
+visit to the interior."
+
+"There it is again," said I. "Now, Doctor, the sooner you get rid of
+these strange notions the better So tell me your recollections of our
+stay in the moon, and I will let you know where you are wrong."
+
+"Very well. You remember, of course, when we found ourselves rushing
+away from the earth so swiftly."
+
+"Yes, and then we remained shut up in the car day after day, more dead
+than alive I think, until, fortunately, we were spilled out upon this
+more favored globe."
+
+"You seem to be sincere," said the doctor, "but if you are, then you
+forget the most interesting part of our experience. Just as we were
+about to be overwhelmed with our troubles we heard exquisite music,
+which we soon found proceeded from a lovely maiden. You fell desperately
+in love with her at first sight and never recovered till you were
+plunged in the ocean of Mars. You insisted on following her nod, and she
+led us at once through a narrow path down into the center of the moon.
+Here, in her quiet home, we taught her to sing in our language--her only
+speech was song--and the first words she used were to say she loved me.
+She did not understand what the words meant, of course, but you looked
+as if you wished I had been blown away before Mona had discovered us.
+After that I helped you in your wooing all I could, but although your
+passion increased every day your suit did not seem to prosper. One day I
+expressed the wish that I had some of the things we had left in the car,
+whereupon she led us out to the surface again, where we arrived just in
+time to be thrown upon this planet. Here we are, you and I, all safe,
+but where is poor Mona?"
+
+"I am sure it would take a wise man to answer that question," I replied.
+"And now let me show you, Doctor, how wrong you are. If you will only
+try to exercise a little of that good judgment for which you are noted,
+you will be convinced that this is only a pretty little fairy tale which
+has somehow taken possession of a corner of your brain. Now that the
+fairy is gone you must try to forget the rest. Just think how unlikely
+the whole story is. Think of a delicate girl living in such surroundings
+as we found there; and then, how could we exist down in the center of
+the moon?"
+
+"Why, don't you remember Mona told us the water and atmosphere had
+all run down there, making it the only habitable part of the decaying
+globe?"
+
+"Oh, that's only one of your scientific notions, probably as true as the
+others that we have disproved. Too much science has turned your head,
+and I will prove it to you again by showing you how impossible is
+the part which I play in your romance. I will tell you now, what you
+doubtless do not know, that I am engaged to be married to the best woman
+in all the earth, excepting your own good wife, of course."
+
+"Is that a fact?" asked the doctor. "And do you love her?"
+
+"To be sure I do. I love her very dearly, and if I ever see her again I
+shall tell her so in a manner to make her understand it."
+
+"Why, doesn't she understand it now?"
+
+"Yes, I think so, but she thought I didn't show heart enough in my
+wooing."
+
+"Well, if she could see you with Mona she would learn that you have
+plenty of heart when the right one appears to make it spring into life."
+
+"You speak as if you thought I did not love Margaret. You do not know
+her. Why, I wouldn't once look at another woman anywhere, not even in
+Mars, and most certainly not in that puckered-up old world that we have
+just left, happily for us."
+
+"Do you know what I think about you?" asked the doctor.
+
+"No."
+
+"I think you have an exceedingly poor memory. First, you forgot Margaret
+as soon as the voice of that fair singer fell on your ear, and now you
+have forgotten the singer again the moment we have lost her. I await
+with much interest your first introduction to a daughter of Mars."
+
+"You will be disappointed," said I, "if you think I shall be more than
+civil to her."
+
+"If she be handsome and can turn a tune moderately well, I shall be
+willing to wager a fair young planet against the moon that you will
+propose to her in a week."
+
+"I have done nothing to give you so poor an opinion of me. It is only
+your own diseased imagination, and I do not seem to be curing it very
+fast. I suppose, because your mind is naturally so strong, it is the
+more difficult to destroy such an hallucination as has taken possession
+of you."
+
+"I would give it up," said the doctor. "The story is all true, and not
+a work of my imagination. Isn't it more reasonable to believe that you
+could forget the circumstances I have related than that I could invent
+such a tale?"
+
+"Oh, I never could forget it if I had been false to Margaret. You do not
+know me. If your vagaries had taken any other direction I might possibly
+be brought to think you were right."
+
+By this time we both began to realize that the conversation was not
+proving a great success in the way we had hoped, and so, after some
+pleasant words and a hearty laugh over the situation, we found our
+way to the deck again. Here there were various things to attract our
+attention, different members of the crew being eager to show us about.
+The doctor asked some question in regard to the system of steering the
+vessel, and when one of the men had taken him back toward the stern to
+explain the point, I found Thorwald and quietly explained to him the
+mental condition of my companion.
+
+"The doctor is all right," I said, "on every subject but one. His head
+must have been injured a little in his fall, and he imagines and asserts
+with positiveness that we found a young woman in the moon, the last of
+her race--a ridiculous idea, is it not?"
+
+"And did you find any inhabitants at all?" asked Thorwald.
+
+"Certainly not. No one could live in such a place. It is indeed
+marvelous how we existed long enough to get here. The doctor calls this
+creature of his brain Mona, says she was a great beauty, and plainly
+intimates that I was rather too attentive to her. You will see what a
+convincing proof this is of his unsound condition when I tell you I am
+engaged to the best woman on the earth, and so of course could not show
+any marked preference for another. I have told you about the doctor
+so that you may pass over unnoticed any allusion he makes to these
+subjects."
+
+Thorwald thanked me and said he would be careful not to embarrass us in
+the matter. And so I flattered myself that in the future Thorwald and
+I would sympathize with each other in commiserating the doctor. But I
+afterward learned that the doctor, about this time, had also sought an
+interview with Thorwald and had confided the following secret to him:
+
+"My friend," said he, "is a fine young fellow, but his head must have
+been injured in his fall. He has entirely forgotten the best of our
+experience in the moon. Queer, too, for he fell in love with the only
+and last inhabitant of that globe, a beautiful, sweet-voiced maiden
+named Mona, who never talked but she sang."
+
+Thorwald then made the doctor tell him the whole story, and at the close
+he promised he would not pay much attention to anything I might say on
+the subject in future conversation.
+
+So it was quite a puzzle to Thorwald to tell which of his visitors from
+the earth was of unsettled mind and which in his normal condition. He
+decided to hold the question open and wait for further evidence.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IX.
+
+THORWALD AS A PROPHET.
+
+
+As maybe supposed, the doctor and I were anxious to hear more about
+Mars, and it was not long before we were all seated together again, when
+Thorwald resumed his instructive talk.
+
+"What further can I tell you of our condition and achievements? Every
+science has made mighty progress in bestowing its own benefit upon us.
+New arts have been discovered in the course of our development, about
+which you would understand nothing. The aim and result of all science
+have been to add to our comfort and happiness--our true happiness, which
+consists in improvement and the constant uplifting of character. The
+evils that once vexed our world, both those occasioned by natural
+phenomena and those brought about by our own ignorance and sin, have, as
+you have heard, almost completely disappeared. Even mental troubles are
+gone, and no corroding care destroys our peace, for there is nothing
+for us to dread; no dark future, filled with unknown evils, awaits our
+unwilling feet, and no superstitious or unnatural fear disturbs the
+peaceful quiet of our sleep."
+
+"And are we to understand, Thorwald," I asked, "that you believe all
+this rest from trouble and wrongdoing is coming to the earth, too?"
+
+"Before replying directly to your question," answered Thorwald, "let
+me ask you if there is any tendency in that direction. Look back to
+the earliest days of your history and compare the state of things then
+existing with that of your own times. Has your world made any progress?
+Is there any less violence? Are men learning to live without fighting?
+Are the dark corners of the earth coming to the light?"
+
+"In these and many other directions," I answered, "I think we can see
+improvement."
+
+"Then," continued Thorwald, "it seems to me you must believe with me
+that your world will one day come to the condition in which you find us.
+Have not your holy prophets foretold a time of universal peace both for
+man and beast, a time when a higher law than selfishness shall govern
+all hearts and the earth be filled with the spirit of love?"
+
+"They have," I replied, "but most of us are so engrossed in the struggle
+for existence that we think lightly or not at all of such things.
+These prophecies have never impressed me as they do now when I see your
+condition, and reflect that similar words may have been spoken and then
+fulfilled here."
+
+"Let me assure you," Thorwald made haste to say, "that the earth is
+still young. I can see by all you say that your age is one of unusual
+vitality and progress. A firm faith that victory will come and that
+the golden age is before you will be a great help in your struggle with
+evil. Lay hold of that faith. It is yours. It needs no prophet to tell
+you that your race will one day reach our blessed state. First will
+come the spirit of peace, and as I am sure war must be repugnant to such
+minds as yours, you will readily learn to put it away from you. Then
+will begin to cease all bitterness between man and man, and you will be
+started on the road that leads to brotherly kindness. A world of sorrows
+will fall away with the passing of individual and national strife, not
+only the horror of the battlefield and the misery that follows it, but
+also the more secret and world-wide unhappiness that comes from the
+petty conflicts over the so-called rights of person and property.
+Selfishness, that monstrous source of evil, must be dethroned, and then
+the rights of each will be cared for by all. This will usher in for you
+a new era.
+
+"And now, when the mighty energy that has been expended in learning and
+practicing the science of war, the skill that has been given to the art
+of killing, the treasures of money and blood, the time, the brain
+and the activities that have been employed in carrying out plans of
+aggression, large and small, of neighbor against neighbor--when these
+have all been turned toward the betterment of your condition and the
+salvation of men from degradation and sin, then will the arts of peace
+flourish and your day begin. Then will nature herself come to your
+assistance, molding her laws to your convenience and comfort. It will
+doubtless be a long time before a man can love and consider his neighbor
+as himself, and before all of God's creatures on your planet can dwell
+together in perfect peace, but, believe me, the earth will live to see
+that time."
+
+"Thorwald," spoke the doctor, "your words are so inspiring that I almost
+wish my life could have waited some thousands of years for that bright
+day you so confidently promise for the earth, but I cannot help asking
+myself if it is altogether a misfortune to live in the midst of the
+conflict, with something ahead to strive for. Will you pardon my
+presumption if I ask you practically the same question? You have told us
+of your wonderful history and that you have now reached a condition of
+peace and quiet. With no sickness or sorrow in your lives, with no evil
+passions to rise and throw you, with nothing to fear from without or
+within, yours must be a blissful condition. But still, is there always
+content? In our imperfect state we are striving and learning. Our
+happiness largely consists in the pursuit of happiness. If, some day,
+we should find all difficulties removed, no obstacles left to contend
+against, no evil in ourselves or others to overcome, not even our bodily
+wants to provide for, it seems to me life would lose its zest and become
+a burden hardly worth the carrying. Can you remove this unhandsome
+doubt?"
+
+"I will try," answered Thorwald. "I suppose if the people of the
+earth, with their present capacities and aspirations, should be brought
+suddenly to such a state of civilization as ours, it would be as you
+say. As your development continues, your minds and souls will expand and
+you will be prepared to take up new duties and occupations as they
+come. I cannot tell you what these are, for at present you would not
+understand me. You mistake if you think we have ceased to learn. The
+mind is ever reaching forward to new attainments, and the things which
+chiefly occupy us now would have been beyond our comprehension in our
+earlier days. Can you not find an illustration on the earth? Suppose
+the untutored savage were suddenly required to throw away his spear and
+arrow and engage in your pursuits, Doctor. Would he be happy? Your
+mind is full of thoughts that he cannot grasp, your life is made up of
+experiences and aspirations of which he has no conception. You can see
+your superiority to the savage. Let me help you to look forward and see
+your inferiority to the coming man, who, I assure you, will never tire
+of life while anything that God has made remains to be studied. As
+the mind expands, new wonders and new beauties in creation will unfold
+themselves and your race will learn to look back with pity upon your
+present age, with its mean and trivial occupations."
+
+"But, Thorwald," I asked, "can you not tell us something of these higher
+pursuits?"
+
+"But very little," he answered. "I might give you one or two hints
+of some things which I think lie nearest you, if indeed you have not
+already begun to consider them. I need hardly speak of astronomy, which,
+from the nature of the case, is the earliest of all sciences wherever
+there is intelligent life to view the works of creation. You will find
+great profit in advancing in this study as rapidly as possible. We have
+not yet ceased to pursue it, and I think it is one branch of knowledge
+which will never be exhausted, in the present life at least. Our
+achievements in astronomy have been marvelous.
+
+"Do not neglect to look in the other direction also for evidences of
+God's power and wisdom. The microscope will almost keep pace with the
+telescope in revealing the wonders of creation. It will greatly assist
+you in many of your higher employments.
+
+"One thing that you will doubtless soon undertake is the study of the
+speech of animals, which will go hand in hand with the development of
+their intelligence. Both of these will claim much attention, but very
+inadequate results will be obtained until after you have tamed and
+domesticated the various species. You will want to discover how far
+animals can be educated and whether their intelligence can ever be
+developed into mind. As you progress in this study you will feel the
+necessity of understanding their conversation and you will learn what
+you can of their language. These tasks will seem of more importance to
+you when the lower animals are all reclaimed and become the companions
+and friends of man. You will try to discover the particular purpose for
+which each species was created, and you will even be led to inquire, by
+a long series of experiments, whether they possess the faintest shadow
+of moral perceptions.
+
+"Then there is the great subject of plant life. Does the sensitiveness
+of plants ever amount to sensibility or feeling? If so, is it a feeling
+you are bound to respect? That is, should a wounded and bleeding tree
+excite in you even the slightest shade of that sympathy you feel with
+a distressed animal? These are inquiries which you doubtless think of
+little moment now, but we have spent many years pursuing them.
+
+"These are only a few faint indications of the multitude of questions
+which lie before you for study. In every investigation which you follow,
+whether connected with the mysteries of your own complex being or with
+the unexplored depths of creation around you, a chief source of interest
+will be the constant discovery of a perfect adaptation in the works
+of God. Of course you know something of it already, but you will never
+cease to wonder at the unfolding of this truth, as you come to realize
+more and more fully that creation is one, and is moved and ruled by one
+intelligence.
+
+"Oh, do not imagine that in the ages to come there will be nothing
+to make life interesting. As your civilization advances and you are
+released gradually from trouble and care, and from those petty affairs
+which now so occupy you, your minds and souls will grow, and you will
+see far more ahead of you worth striving for than you now do. Your
+happiness can still consist largely in the pursuit of happiness."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER X
+
+MORE WORLDS THAN TWO.
+
+
+It was now so late in the day that further conversation was postponed,
+and after a plain but exceedingly enjoyable supper we were shown
+to luxurious rooms, where we spent our first night in Mars in great
+comfort.
+
+In the morning Thorwald told us we would reach our port in a few hours,
+and so we sat down as early as we could after breakfast for a short
+talk.
+
+The doctor furnished the text by opening the conversation with this
+remark:
+
+"It is wonderful to think we should find on this planet a race of people
+so advanced, when so little thought is given, on the earth, to the idea
+of life in other worlds."
+
+"What has been the general opinion among you on that subject?" asked
+Thorwald.
+
+"The subject has not had standing enough to call forth much opinion,"
+the doctor answered. "There is an almost universal indifference in
+regard to the matter. I think the common notion is that the earth is
+about all there is in the universe worth considering."
+
+"But what are your own views, Doctor?"
+
+"I have been one of those," he replied, "who believed the notion of
+life outside the earth to be a beautiful theory without one shred of
+scientific basis. We knew the earth was inhabited and the moon was not,
+and there we stopped. We did not know, and thought we never could know,
+anything that could be called evidence pointing to the existence of
+life in the other planets or elsewhere, and we held that there was no
+advantage in speculation. We thought it unwise to spend much time or
+thought on a subject about which we could know nothing. On coming here
+and finding you I have learned that Mars is inhabited, but I do not know
+any more about the other planets or stars."
+
+"Does not the mere knowledge that there are two life-bearing bodies lead
+you to believe that there are more, among the vast numbers of worlds
+which you have not visited?"
+
+"I don't see why it should. How can we believe anything without
+evidence? No one has ever come to us from those distant globes, and they
+are too far away for us to see what is taking place on their surface."
+
+"It seems strange, Doctor, to hear you reason in that way, but I suppose
+some of our race were just as narrow, if you will pardon me for using
+that word, as you are, before our wonderful successes in astronomy. I
+believe you have not properly considered the subject, for it seems to me
+you had knowledge enough, before you left the earth, to justify you in
+holding to a strong probability of life beyond your own globe.
+
+"Let us see what some of that knowledge is. You know, to begin with,
+that one world is inhabited. Then if you should find other bodies as
+large as the earth and bearing any resemblance to it, there would be no
+improbability in the thought that they or some of them were filled with
+life. The improbability is certainly taken away by the knowledge that
+one such body, the earth, is inhabited.
+
+"You start, then, without prejudice, on a voyage of discovery, aided by
+your telescope and your reasoning faculties.
+
+"First you find, within distances that you can easily measure, a small
+group of dark bodies, which you have called planets, all apparently
+governed by a common law, in obedience to which they are circling around
+a large body of quite different character, which gives them light and
+heat. Of these dark bodies, which shine in the sky only by reflected
+light, the earth is one, and, you are surprised to find, not the most
+important one, judging from all you can discover. Some of the others are
+much larger and are attended by more satellites. In fact, the earth is
+indistinguishable in this little group. While it is not the largest,
+neither is it the smallest. It is not the farthest from the sun nor the
+nearest to it. It is merely one among the number. And how much alike
+the members of this family are. Your telescopes do not point out any
+material differences, although each has its individual characteristics.
+Let us enumerate some of the many points of resemblance. They all turn
+on themselves as well as revolve around the sun. All see the night
+follow the day, and in most of them there must occur the regular
+succession of seasons. To each one the sun is the source of light and
+heat, many of them have moons, and all can see the stars. Nor does
+the resemblance stop here. For you have discovered that one has an
+atmosphere, another is surrounded with clouds, while on the surface of
+our own globe you see the polar snows increase in winter and melt away
+in summer. Is it not probable that if you could get nearer to these
+globes you would find still closer resemblances? And if they are like
+the earth in so many ways, is it at all unlikely that they may, at some
+period of their existence, be the abode of intelligent life? For what
+other purpose were they made, Doctor?"
+
+"They make very pretty objects for us to look at," replied my companion.
+
+"Yes, those that can be seen," said Thorwald; "but is that all? Were
+those great worlds, some of them hundreds of times larger than your own
+globe, created merely to add a little variety to your sky, and to give
+you the pleasant task of watching their movements under the pretty title
+of morning and evening star?"
+
+"Speaking from the knowledge I had when I left the earth," the doctor
+answered, "I can say I never heard that they were put to any other use.
+No one ever came down to us from any of them to tell us they were
+inhabited."
+
+"And do you think," asked Thorwald, "that the myriads of stars were also
+made simply to delight the eye of man?"
+
+"How do I know that they were not?" the doctor asked in reply.
+
+"Because of the absolute unreasonableness of the thought, if for no
+other reason," answered Thorwald. "But now let me recall to your mind
+more of the knowledge possessed by the inhabitants of the earth. I
+think I know about what that knowledge is, from my acquaintance with
+the present state of your development. Astronomy has been our master
+science, and I can remember fairly well the extent of our knowledge
+when we had reached your stage. If I should fall into the error of
+attributing to you more than you have already discovered you can easily
+correct me.
+
+"If, now, you leave the little group of dark bodies which are so like
+the earth, and go out still further into space, what do you find?
+At distances so great that only the speed of light can be used as a
+measuring line, you discover vast numbers of self-luminous bodies, which
+you call stars. Your natural eye can tell but a small fraction of
+their number. For example, look at the constellation you have named the
+Pleiades and you see six or seven stars. View it through a three-inch
+telescope and you can count perhaps three hundred. Now attach a
+photographic plate to the telescope, and with an exposure of four hours
+the light coming from that small patch of sky falls upon the sensitive
+film with a cumulative effect until you have a picture of more than two
+thousand three hundred stars."
+
+"Yes," broke in the doctor, "you are gauging correctly the state of our
+knowledge. Our largest telescopes reveal in the entire sky, it is said,
+one hundred million stars."
+
+"Then," answered Thorwald, "if the glories of the heavens were made
+merely to delight the eye of man, why was not the eye created of
+sufficient power to behold them? As it is, only a small proportion of
+the stars can be seen without the aid of instruments too costly and too
+delicate for general use.
+
+"But have you the means of establishing any likeness between the
+earth and those distant bodies? You have discovered that the law of
+gravitation is universal and that the motions of the stars resemble
+those of the solar system. Have you made any discoveries tending to
+prove the existence of other systems like our own?"
+
+"Yes," replied the doctor, "our recent investigations of the periods of
+some of the variable stars show irregularities in brightness, period,
+and proper motion. A close study of these irregularities has convinced
+some of our astronomers that there are invisible bodies near them,
+evidently planets circling around a central sun. The theory is that the
+dark bodies cause slight perturbations in the star, which account for
+the irregularities in period, motion, etc. So Neptune was discovered
+by the effect it had upon the observed movements of Uranus. This is the
+first evidence we have had tending to prove that there are other groups
+of worlds like ours, and it is considered quite significant."
+
+"I can readily believe it," said Thorwald, "and I know how helpful every
+bit of evidence is, in your search for knowledge. But if I mistake not
+you have the aid of another instrument, which is destined to play an
+important part in your future studies. You get much nearer those distant
+orbs when a spectroscope is placed at the end of the telescope, and
+the ray of light coming from sun and star is widened out into a band
+of color, which tells a marvelous story. That light, that has been for
+years, and perhaps for centuries, on its way to you, now discloses the
+very nature of the substances which compose those fiery globes. And what
+are those substances? It must have been a startling truth to the man
+who first read from the spectrum of the star he was studying, that it
+contained matter with which he was familiar, materials of which the
+earth itself is made. By this science you have learned beyond doubt that
+many of the commonest elements of the earth's crust exist also in other
+worlds, and, what is of great significance, that the materials most
+closely connected with living organisms on the earth, such as hydrogen,
+sodium, magnesium, and iron, are the very ones which are found most
+widely diffused among the stars. I think I am not wrong in assuming that
+you are somewhat acquainted with the spectroscope and have made these
+discoveries."
+
+"You are quite right," said the doctor. "This branch of scientific
+investigation has already been carried so far with us, and the results
+of the experiments are so constant and uniform, that when it is
+asserted, for example, that such and such a metal is present in a state
+of vapor in the sun's atmosphere, it is estimated that the chances in
+favor of the correctness of the assertion are as 300,000,000 to 1."
+
+"You are helping my argument, Doctor," resumed Thorwald. "But now let
+me call your attention to another field of inquiry, in our search for
+evidence to establish a likeness between the earth and the other parts
+of the universe. You told me, a while ago, that you have the fall of
+meteorites on your globe. Have you considered the striking evidence they
+bring you? Let us imagine we have a meteoric fragment here. Take it in
+your hand and think of it a moment. You have few things on your earth as
+interesting as this piece of metallic stone. What a world of questions
+it starts! What is its composition? Whence comes it? Once it was in
+existence, but not here. Where, then, was its home? Out, out in the
+depths of space, where burning suns roll and comets have their dwelling
+place. The stars have fallen indeed, and here is one of the pieces.
+Before it came to us as a messenger from the sky did it have an
+independent existence, or is it a fragment of a shattered world? How
+long has it been whirling in its unknown orbit, and what story has it
+for us from its distant birthplace? If we can discover whence meteorites
+come, and of what they are composed, I think you will agree with me that
+they furnish valuable testimony in our inquiry. You have no doubt had
+many theories as to their origin."
+
+I was just about to make answer to this implied question, when Thorwald
+rose and eagerly scanned the horizon. After a moment he exclaimed:
+
+"We shall have to break off our conversation for a time, as we are
+nearing our port. I knew by other means that land must soon appear, and
+now I can see it."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XI
+
+MARS AS IT IS.
+
+
+The doctor and I looked in the direction indicated and speedily realized
+that the superiority of the dwellers on Mars extended to the sense of
+sight, for we could see nothing. But we were sailing so swiftly that the
+shore we were approaching was before very long brought within our vision
+also, and among the alert crew, who were now preparing to bring the
+vessel into its harbor, there could be none so interested in what was to
+come as the doctor and myself. We were to see what had been accomplished
+by a race of whose perfections we had been hearing so much.
+
+As we effected a landing and walked up the streets of the city, we were
+not nearly so much impressed with the size and beauty of the buildings
+and the appearance of the people as we were by the spirit of absolute
+peace and quiet which prevailed. With perfect skill, and without noise
+or bustle, the ship was brought to its dock and the crew went ashore.
+The screams and calls, the rattle of vehicles and the babel of sounds we
+had been accustomed to on such occasions, were all missing. The silence
+and order were almost oppressive because they were so strange. But there
+was no lack of activity among the immense creatures who thronged around
+us. Everyone was busy, knowing apparently just what to do without
+direction from others, and just the best way to do it. Beings with lungs
+powerful enough to wake the mountain echoes went about with mild and
+tuneful voices, and, though each one seemed possessed of a giant's
+strength, no severe labor was required of any.
+
+The streets and walks were paved with a soft material, yielding slightly
+to pressure, but so firm and tough that it showed no sign of wear, an
+ideal pavement, over which the wheels rolled as noiselessly as they
+would over a velvet carpet. It was, moreover, laid in beautiful patterns
+of the most varied colors. The vehicles, of which there were many kinds
+for different uses, were so faultlessly made that they moved with the
+utmost quiet and apparent ease, the power that propelled them being
+invisible. There were no tracks or wires, but all were guided in any
+direction and with any speed at the pleasure of the riders.
+
+Thorwald led me from the vessel, and another stalwart son of Mars took
+charge of the doctor. After walking a few steps up the street we all
+stepped into an empty carriage without saying as much as "by your
+leave," Thorwald touched a button, and we were off.
+
+"This," said Thorwald, "is one of the best illustrations of the manner
+in which we are applying electricity. You saw them also unloading the
+heavy freight from the boat by the same power. So all our work is done.
+No fleshly limb is strained, no conscious life is burdened, by any
+of the labor of our complex society. This subtle force is so well
+controlled and its laws are so thoroughly understood that it is equal to
+every demand."
+
+"I am entranced, Thorwald," said the doctor, "with everything I see. But
+I would like to ask if you own this comfortable carriage and had it sent
+to the wharf to meet you."
+
+"I own it," our friend replied, "just as I own the street we are riding
+over or the house I live in. I own this or any other vehicle whenever
+I desire to use it. You saw a great number of carriages near the wharf,
+and there are several over on that corner. Anyone is at perfect liberty
+to appropriate one to his own use at any time, and when he is through he
+merely leaves it at a convenient place by the roadside for some one else
+to take."
+
+"I should think they would be stolen," said I.
+
+Thorwald laughed at my ignorance and answered: "Why, who is there to
+steal when everybody, either friend or stranger, can use them as often
+and as long as he likes?"
+
+The talk promised to grow more interesting still, but now our attention
+was turned to the delightful scene through which we were passing. It
+will be utterly impossible to describe the beauty of the landscape,
+where nature and art seemed to be striving to outdo each other. Before
+reaching land I had imagined that the houses, if they were to be
+proportioned to the inhabitants, must pierce the sky. But we were
+surprised to find that they were all comparatively low, of not more
+than two or three stories. And all, even those near the wharf, were
+surrounded with ample grounds. Some of the houses were larger than
+others, some more ornate than their neighbors, and the architecture
+varied as much as the size and arrangement of the grounds. But all were
+beautiful beyond description. One thing that appeared very strange to us
+was that the prevailing color of the vegetation was red, although
+that shade did not predominate as much as green does on the earth. For
+instance, after we had admired a stretch of lawn brilliant as a crimson
+sky, we would come to another which would surprise and please us with a
+lovely shade of blue. Still another was green, and then one glowed with
+a variety of colors, whose combination showed a most refined taste. As
+with the grass, so it was with the foliage of the trees. The richest
+tints of our autumnal forests were here present in permanence, but with
+a much greater wealth of coloring. Flowers, too, of every hue and form
+were to be seen on all sides, and their appearance was so perfectly
+natural that if they had been set with design then the art itself had
+concealed the art of their arrangement.
+
+With all this mass of color there were no unpleasant contrasts, no
+discordant tones. As, amid the bustle of the landing place, our ears had
+not been shocked with rude noises, so now we received through our eyes
+only a delightful sense of quiet beauty.
+
+Riding, now slowly and now more rapidly, through such a scene, we could
+think of nothing better to question our friend about, so the doctor
+found his voice and said:
+
+"This far surpasses our anticipations, Thorwald, and I am sure this
+place must be exceptional, even on Mars. I suppose it is a resort where
+some of your wealthy people have built themselves homes in which to
+enjoy their leisure months."
+
+"Nothing of the kind," replied Thorwald. "These people live here all
+the year, they are not wealthy, and there is nothing to distinguish this
+city above others."
+
+"Why, this seems more like a private park than a city. Where are your
+crowded streets and houses for the poor?"
+
+"After all I have told you of our high civilization, Doctor, do you not
+understand that we have long since abolished poverty?"
+
+"Yes," answered the doctor, "I understand that in a general way; but I
+did not suppose everybody was rich, as it is certain everybody must be
+to own such palaces as these."
+
+"You are still wrong," said Thorwald. "We have no such distinctions as
+rich and poor. All our cities are of this character, only there is great
+variety in the residences and in the way in which the streets and lots
+are laid out. These places that we are passing are inferior to many,
+but no houses are built that are at all mean or uncomfortable. Indeed,
+I think we have to-day passed some of the poorest that I know of. As
+to the word city, we use it only as a convenient expression. It really
+means nothing more than a certain locality, for, as I told you at the
+beginning of our conversation, we have no need of government of any
+kind. In some sections one city runs into another, so that the whole
+country is filled with the beauty and delight of the landscape which you
+see about you."
+
+"But," asked the doctor, "with the population spread out in this
+marvelous way, is there room for everybody?"
+
+"Oh, yes," answered Thorwald. "All the surface of our planet is brought
+into use; the waste places are reclaimed, and there is abundant room for
+all. And now, as this pleasant air and easy motion seem to be agreeable
+to you, we may as well ride slowly for a while longer.
+
+"In your intercourse with us you will find it is never necessary for us
+to hurry when, for any good reason, we choose to loiter, and, therefore,
+if you care to hear me talk, I will take the time to correct another
+wrong impression you seem to have.
+
+"You spoke, Doctor, about the people owning these houses. No one owns
+them."
+
+"Do they belong to the state?" asked the doctor.
+
+"There is no state."
+
+"Well, this is a curious condition of affairs," resumed the doctor.
+"Here is valuable property belonging to no one and no government
+to claim it. I should think anyone that happened along could take
+possession."
+
+"Now you are right," said Thorwald. "That is just the state of the case.
+It is with houses and all other property as I told you it was with this
+carriage. All the right one has to any object is the right to use it.
+Everything that has been produced by art and skill is just as free as
+the bounties of nature, such as air and water and land, which of course
+no one would ever dream of subjecting to private ownership."
+
+The doctor winced as he heard Thorwald include land among these free
+bounties of nature, and the expression of his face did not escape the
+quick eye of the Martian, who exclaimed:
+
+"So you earth-dwellers are still in the habit of buying and selling
+land, are you?"
+
+"That was the practice when we left home," replied the doctor. "And I
+cannot understand how we can do differently. Your views of property are
+so strange to us that I am sure my companion will join me in asking you
+to explain them more fully."
+
+"I certainly do," I said.
+
+"Property," began Thorwald, "we do not have, but we have many of the
+rights of proprietorship in the things we use from time to time. And
+what other benefit than the free use of what we need could be derived
+from the possession of things? Suppose I, for example, owned a thousand
+acres of land and a hundred fine mansions. I could cultivate but a small
+part of the land and occupy but one house at a time, and of what value
+would the remainder be?"
+
+"Would not such palaces as these on this beautiful street bring a good
+rent?" I inquired.
+
+"Don't be stupid," replied Thorwald good-naturedly. "You must know
+by this time that we are not a race of self-seekers, each one taking
+advantage of the necessity of his neighbor. But I suppose it is
+difficult for you to appreciate a state of society in which each
+individual considers the feelings and needs of others as much as his
+own. With us this principle is not preached any more, but it is actually
+practiced in all our affairs."
+
+"I will try to keep that in mind," I said, "although it is a fact I can
+hardly realize. But about this matter of houses I want to make another
+inquiry. After you have become established in a beautiful home to which
+you have no more right than anyone else, what is to prevent some other
+man (I use the word for convenience) coming forward and asking you to
+give it up to him?"
+
+"Nothing," answered Thorwald. "In such a case I should immediately move
+out and let him have it, knowing he must be entirely unselfish in the
+matter and that there must be some sufficient reason for the request."
+
+"But would you go to all the trouble of moving without even knowing his
+reason?"
+
+"Yes, I would do it to accommodate him, but then the trouble would be
+nothing. We would merely have to go out and take another house."
+
+"But would you not have to move all the furniture?"
+
+"Oh, no. We could take anything we pleased, of course, but it is not
+usual to make radical changes. Another house would contain all that was
+desirable. As a matter of fact, however, such removals are by no means
+frequent. We usually remain in one place and acquire all the tender
+associations of home which could be possible under any system. But if
+a family should increase so that it would be better for them to take a
+larger house, they could easily find one, or if not they would ask those
+who are fond of that work to build one to their taste. The moment a
+thing is made or produced it belongs to the general store, to be used by
+any and all who need it."
+
+"Under such conditions," said I, "what we call the eighth commandment
+would be superfluous."
+
+"If that refers to theft," answered Thorwald, "you are certainly right,
+for it is impossible to steal where everything is free.
+
+"It will be well for you to understand how happily we have solved this
+question of property, but of course we could not have found such a
+solution until we had first reached a high spiritual plane and learned
+the lesson of true brotherhood. From your words I know just about the
+point in our development which corresponds with the present state of
+your race, and therefore I know something of the nature of the struggle
+through which the earth is now passing. I warn you that the unrestricted
+right of private ownership is a menace to your civilization, all the
+greater because its evil is probably not clearly seen. We are assured
+by our historians, who try to point out the causes for all the great
+convulsions in our career, that excessive individualism in property
+rights, with its selfish disregard of others, was a potent factor in the
+downfall of many of the enlightened nations of our antiquity. We have
+noticed that even our animals have the instinct of possession, and it is
+certain that the love of ownership and accumulation has been one of the
+hardest evils to eradicate from our naturally selfish nature. If you
+should ever return to the earth, do not neglect to signal for this
+danger."
+
+"But what is the remedy?" asked the doctor. "The system of which you
+have been speaking might be called the mainspring of our society. I can
+hardly imagine what we should be without it. With our note of warning,
+what message of help will you send?"
+
+"Doctor," answered Thorwald, "it pleases me to hear you ask that
+question, and I am rejoiced also that I have so good an answer for you.
+The remedy is to be found in the law of love. Follow that law as closely
+as possible. The way will be hard, the progress slow, but every step
+taken will be a solid advance. It is the only safe road, and you will
+find that every other will lead to disappointment and disaster."
+
+Whenever Thorwald struck these high spiritual themes he spoke with such
+enthusiasm and positiveness that our respect for him increased rapidly.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XII.
+
+WE REACH THORWALD'S HOME.
+
+
+All this time we had been riding leisurely along, enraptured with the
+delightful country, while the way itself and the estates on either hand
+offered such variety of landscape that the view never became tiresome
+nor uninteresting.
+
+But as the day was waning, our friends quickened the pace and showed us
+a burst of speed. This was most exhilarating, and soon brought us to
+the station where Thorwald told us we were to take an express train for
+home, which was about two hundred miles distant.
+
+When we alighted we left our carriage by the roadside among many others,
+and entered an immense building. Both inside and out there were plenty
+of people moving around, but without noise or unpleasant bustle. With no
+delay, and also with no haste, we entered what appeared to be a smaller
+apartment opening out of the general waiting-room. It had the appearance
+of an elegant drawing-room, the rich but comfortable-looking furniture
+being disposed in a careless manner, which helped to make us feel at
+home, if anything could bring us that sensation. There was a door at
+each end of the room, and soon these were closed and we felt an almost
+imperceptible jar. The doctor glanced hastily at Thorwald and said:
+
+"Can it be possible that we are to travel in this apartment?"
+
+"Yes," answered Thorwald, "this is our modern traveling coach, and
+we are already on our way to the city in which my friend here and I
+reside."
+
+This latter fact surprised us, for we could not perceive by our senses
+that we were in motion. But as we sat wondering and trying to imagine
+ourselves flying through space, the doors opened, a pleasant breeze
+fanned our cheeks, and the doors closed again, we felt that slight jar
+repeated, and then we were quiet once more. This occurred every two or
+three minutes, and, remembering what Thorwald had previously told us, we
+realized that we were riding in a perfectly tight car in a vacuum tube
+and that these short but frequent stops were to keep us supplied with
+fresh air.
+
+Thorwald explained this to us again, and told us that the coaches were
+of different sizes to accommodate large or small parties, and that one
+could ride alone if he chose to. The cars started so frequently that it
+was seldom necessary to wait more than a few minutes. The doctor thought
+there must be great liability to accident, but Thorwald said:
+
+"No, we do not consider the risk worth taking into account. Let me
+illustrate with a familiar example. Suppose you had just seen a cable
+tested with a ton's weight without a strain. Should you fear to take
+hold of the cable and lift yourself from the ground lest it might break
+and you should fall? The mechanism of this road is just as sure as that.
+The force that is driving us forward is no longer mysterious. The laws
+of electricity are well defined, and its mighty power is under perfect
+control. Nothing is left to chance, and the result is that there have
+been no accidents for many, many years, and practically speaking there
+cannot be any."
+
+When we first entered the coach we noticed that there were no windows,
+and as the doors had no glass we wondered why it was not dark. The light
+was good broad daylight, exactly like that which fills a room when there
+are good windows, but where the direct rays of the sun do not enter;
+and, as we could see no lamps nor fixtures, we could not understand how
+the illumination could be artificial. But such it was. We carried
+an electric battery with us, and the lamps were out of sight, and so
+arranged that they gave us only reflected light. The system was so
+perfect that the imitation sunlight was just as good as the real, as far
+as we could discover.
+
+"This is the way we light all our interiors," said Thorwald, "and of
+course the apparatus is so governed that we can have any amount of
+illumination we please, little or much."
+
+The doctor was about to ask some question in relation to this practical
+improvement, when he was stopped by hearing a little silver-toned bell
+ring. In an instant the doors opened, and Thorwald rose and announced
+that we had reached the end of our journey. We could not have been in
+the car more than fifteen minutes, and the doctor and I supposed our
+ride of two hundred miles had just begun.
+
+"Well, if you travel at this rate," said the doctor, "I do not wonder
+you have obliterated all national boundaries, for the ends of the world
+are right at your doors. And now, Thorwald, I would like to see the
+great tube through which we have been carried so swiftly."
+
+Thorwald smiled a little and led the way through another superb
+waiting-room out into the open air. Here the doctor looked in all
+directions, but could see nothing of the object for which he was
+searching.
+
+"You have seen all any of us can see," said Thorwald.
+
+"We merely step into the comfortable car, sit a few minutes, step out
+again, and go home. In the meantime we have been carried under ground
+and under water, across valleys and through hills, but the way itself,
+the tube through which the car flies, is entirely hidden from sight.
+Where it is above ground, trees and shrubbery screen it from view, so
+that it does not mar the landscape. We think much of this, and should
+regret exceedingly if it became necessary for any such utilitarian
+object to interfere with our aesthetic enjoyment of nature."
+
+Thorwald's friend now took leave of us, expressing the hope that
+he would soon see us again. He had taken some little part in our
+conversation, but had left the burden of it to Thorwald, who was older,
+and who was, moreover, our first acquaintance.
+
+It seemed singular to the doctor and me that we had attracted so little
+attention among the people whom we had encountered since leaving the
+ship. To give the reason for this, which we afterwards discovered, is
+to reveal one of the pleasantest peculiarities of the Martian
+character--that is, the entire absence of a disagreeable curiosity. Our
+dress and appearance and the rather novel circumstances connected with
+our arrival on the planet, which must quickly have become known,
+were certainly calculated to excite their interest, and in a similar
+situation on the earth there is no telling what might have happened to
+us from a curious mob. But here all was order and quiet. Everybody went
+about his own business and treated our party with additional respect,
+it seemed, because some of us were strangers. We found out later how
+anxious all these people were to learn everything about us, but they
+were content to wait till the knowledge should come to them in a proper
+way.
+
+Thorwald now selected a light, pretty carriage, and after a brisk ride
+through another charming avenue and up a steep hill, we alighted at the
+door of a noble mansion whose majestic proportions were in harmony
+with the wide, open plateau upon which it stood alone. Upon entering,
+Thorwald was at once affectionately greeted by his wife, and while he
+was introducing us as natives of another world his son and daughter came
+bounding toward him from an adjacent room.
+
+These were quite small children, but in a few moments Thorwald brought
+in from another part of the house a young woman of about my age,
+apparently, and introduced her as a neighbor. It needed but a glance to
+tell us that she was beautiful as a dream, and she moved about with that
+exquisite grace which comes only from the highest culture. She spoke
+to us with such ease and naturalness that we were at once relieved from
+whatever embarrassment the circumstances might easily occasion.
+
+"Antonia is our very dear friend," said Thorwald, "and, although she
+hides her curiosity so well, you will find her an exceedingly interested
+listener to your history and adventures."
+
+"Yes," said the charming voice of Antonia, "Thorwald has told me just
+enough about you to make me want to know more. Your moon, which is so
+much larger than our little satellites, caused a great sensation when it
+was seen coming toward us so rapidly. The situation was well calculated
+to cause us anxiety, if we had been subject to such a feeling, but, as
+usual with us at the present day, it has turned out to our advantage;
+for it has given us two such worthy representatives of a neighboring
+race."
+
+"I am sure," I answered, "that the advantage is greatly on our side."
+
+I could not say more, for I was conscious that the doctor was watching
+closely to see how I was affected by the presence of this royal girl.
+When he saw I was inclined to be somewhat quiet he felt impelled to say
+something, and offered the following compromising remark:
+
+"If we had only brought Mona safely off the moon with us, you would have
+had something more worthy of your interest than we are, and my friend
+here also would now be in better spirits."
+
+Antonia had a question in her eyes but her perfect breeding kept her
+from putting it into words, after the final expression of the doctor's
+speech. Of course, I could not ignore the allusion, and said:
+
+"Mona is a friend of the doctor's whom I have not the pleasure of
+knowing. I suppose he thinks her cheerful disposition, of which I have
+heard before, would make our present situation even more enjoyable than
+it is. Speaking for myself, however, I think that would be impossible."
+
+With that she rose, and, with a pleasant word of adieu to us, told
+Thorwald she would come in another day after we were well rested.
+
+It was now approaching night-fall and dinner was to be speedily
+announced. The doctor and I were shown to a suite of dressing-rooms, and
+as soon as we were alone he said:
+
+"Do you think Antonia is as handsome as Mona?"
+
+"If you will show me Mona I shall then be able to judge. But how did
+I carry myself on my first introduction to a daughter of Mars? Do
+you think I am in any danger of putting her in Margaret's place in my
+heart?"
+
+"Perhaps not," replied the doctor. "You kept command of yourself
+pretty well; but I think the secret of that is that you have not quite
+forgotten Mona."
+
+"Excuse my frankness, Doctor, but I must tell you I am getting a little
+tired of Mona. I wish I might never hear her name again. If I can resist
+the charms of such an exquisite bundle of perfections as Antonia is,
+do you think I am likely to be overcome by a mocking-bird of your
+imagination?"
+
+"If you could only hear the voice of that bird once more," replied the
+doctor, "you would soon begin to sing another tune. But let us go down
+if you are ready, and not keep them waiting."
+
+We had looked forward with much interest to our first meal in one of
+these sumptuous houses, and, moreover, being quite hungry, we were glad
+to find that we were just in time to sit down. If we had felt any
+fear lest the absence of meat would make a meager bill of fare, the
+experience of the next hour relieved us. The dishes were all strange,
+but highly palatable, and the fact that there was nothing that appeared
+to be in the least unwholesome did not detract from the delicious
+savor which every viand possessed. The rich variety of courses and the
+elegance of the service made it a dinner long to be remembered, and gave
+a new zest to our life on Mars.
+
+It had been a long day to us, and we were allowed to retire at an early
+hour, being conducted to adjacent and communicating rooms. But, though
+our fatigue was great, it is not strange that we lay awake awhile,
+talking of the wonderful things we had seen and heard. Speaking of the
+Martian method of rapid transit the doctor said:
+
+"Besides its expedition, there is another feature to recommend their way
+of traveling."
+
+"What is that?"
+
+"Why, there is no danger of getting a seat just behind a window fiend."
+
+"There is something in that," I answered, "but I am thinking just now
+of our dinner. We must certainly learn how to cook eggs and vegetables
+before we return to the earth."
+
+The character of our conversation, judged from these scraps, shows that
+we had no excuse for remaining awake any longer.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIII.
+
+A MORNING TALK.
+
+
+Next morning we arose early, but found the family already up. Thorwald
+seemed disposed to lose no time in showing and telling us everything
+interesting, and so invited us at once to the top of the house, to take
+a view of the country. The sun was just rising, and its pleasant rays
+lighted up a scene of surpassing beauty. We seemed to be set in the
+middle of a vast park, whose boundaries extended in all directions as
+far as we could see. The landscape presented the most varied character,
+wood and water, hill and plain, and every feature needed to make a
+most delightful picture. Not the least of its charms, and perhaps
+the greatest, was the profusion of color, which filled the vision and
+satisfied the sense of beauty with its contrasts and its harmonies. Some
+of the hills might justly be called mountains, and yet on the rugged
+sides as well as on the summit of each were grand mansions surrounded by
+cultivated fields.
+
+The doctor made some remark about this latter fact, and Thorwald said:
+
+"These situations, which would be almost inaccessible without the aid
+of electricity, are now the favorite sites for building. This wonderful
+power levels all hills in the ease with which it does its work. No task
+is too hard for it and it asks no sympathy, so we may as well ride and
+carry our freight up hill, if we prefer it, and build our houses on the
+mountain tops. One characteristic of our nature has not changed, and
+there is still a great variety of taste, so that plenty of people choose
+the lower land to build upon. I see by your faces that you both admire
+this panorama and think we were wise to place our house on such high
+ground. We like to have our friends take this view in the morning, when
+the world has been freshened by the night's rain."
+
+"Is it not just as beautiful at sunset after a shower?" I asked.
+
+"Oh," answered Thorwald, "I haven't told you that it never rains in the
+day-time, have I?"
+
+"No, indeed, that's another surprise for us. But how is it managed?"
+
+"You will remember I told you," said Thorwald in reply, "that it was
+found that rain enough fell for all parts of the world if it could only
+be rightly distributed. Then when we had discovered by a long series of
+experiments how to make the clouds shed their water at our pleasure, we
+set about devising a means whereby we could give each section the right
+quantity of rain at just the right time.
+
+"We established a central bureau in each country and let the people in
+every city or district vote and send in their request for a shower or
+a long rain ten days in advance. At first it required only a majority
+vote, but this occasioned no end of trouble, as half the community would
+often believe they were suffering for want of rain when the other
+half wanted fair weather. Then the rule was changed so as to make a
+three-quarters vote necessary, which did not help matters much, for very
+often the crops would be seriously damaged before so large a proportion
+of the people could be brought to see the desirability of a rainy day.
+
+"At length the happy thought was conceived of letting it rain over each
+part of the country every night, and giving the right to vote only on
+the quantity desired. This keeps everything fresh and has been found of
+immense benefit to vegetation. Besides, it inconveniences no one, in the
+present state of our society, however it might have been when the plan
+was first adopted."
+
+"What of those people," I asked, "whose occupation or pleasure calls
+them out in the night?"
+
+"We have no such class," replied Thorwald. "We have found by long
+experience that it is best to follow the indication of nature, and
+take the day for labor and the night for rest. This practice and the
+attention devoted to our diet have been chief factors in lengthening the
+span of our lives. If this line of action is best for one it is best for
+all, and, as everybody is doing the best he can, it follows that there
+are literally no people out at night."
+
+"I suppose you would call me stupid again," said I, "if I should ask if
+you have any such old-time personages as guardians of the peace."
+
+"Indeed I should," answered our friend, "for you ought to know us
+better. If you will excuse a poor witticism, the peace is old enough on
+our planet to go without a guardian."
+
+As we smiled at this the doctor was encouraged to try his hand, but, not
+feeling equal to addressing a pleasantry to the usually august Martian,
+he turned to me and remarked:
+
+"This would be a pretty poor place for an umbrella trust, wouldn't it?"
+
+As we left our place of outlook and made our way down stairs, Thorwald
+resumed:
+
+"As I have said before, we have reached our present happy condition
+through many bitter experiences. We read that at one time people had so
+much work to do and were so thoughtless as to what was good for their
+physical welfare that they began to rob themselves of their proper rest.
+Others found it convenient to follow occupations which obliged them to
+work all night and get what sleep they could in the day-time. Night was
+considered about the only time that could be utilized, also, for the
+activities of social life.
+
+"This condition lasted a long time, with the tendency continually
+toward the practice of encroaching more and more upon the hours of rest
+appointed by nature. It was then the period of making many laws, and
+large and influential legislative bodies began to set a bad example to
+the rest of the world by holding their sessions mainly in the night.
+Newspapers thought it necessary to appear full-fledged at the break of
+day, and the railroads made but little distinction between darkness and
+daylight in the matter of carrying people hither and thither. The change
+was slow, but it was in the wrong direction. Darkness was driven out by
+more improved methods of lighting, and houses and streets were brilliant
+the whole night long; and it finally became the fashion in both society
+and business circles literally to turn night into day. For a time that
+remained the universal custom, strange as it seems to us now, but the
+practice of sleeping in the day-time never became natural. This means
+that the whole world was living on from year to year without the amount
+of rest required to keep the race alive. There could be but one result.
+A brood of nervous troubles fell upon us; life began to shorten, and
+we became aware that a serious crisis was before us. As soon as we were
+convinced that we were bringing all this evil upon ourselves by our
+disregard of the laws of nature, there was a change; and it is well
+for us that there was still virility enough left in the race to make a
+change possible. A gradual reform was instituted which, overcoming many
+difficulties and delays but with no serious set-backs, brought us, after
+long years, to our present happy way. Of course, our improvement in
+every other direction, moral as well as physical, assisted us all along
+in this reform. Now, looking back on our course, and comparing our
+present with our former state, we are perfectly sure what is best for
+us, and he would be a rash man who should intimate that we are not doing
+right in using the night for rest.
+
+"But this is getting to be quite a long talk for so early in the
+morning. Let us see if breakfast is not ready."
+
+This meal proved to be as appetizing as the first, although the dishes
+were entirely different; being made up, apparently, of fruit and
+cereals.
+
+The doctor and I had been exceedingly interested in the way the dinner
+of the evening before had been served. We did not understand it, and now
+we were equally puzzled to see the breakfast courses come and go. No one
+came in to make any change in the table, and our hostess seemed to
+have as little to do with it as the rest of us. She presided with great
+dignity, and, as I watched the changes going on with such perfect ease
+and quiet, I could not refrain from saying:
+
+"If it is proper for me to ask, will you tell us how this is done, Mrs.
+----"
+
+"We do not use those titles now," she interrupted. "Call me Zenith, the
+name by which I was introduced to you. I suppose Thorwald has told you
+that electricity does nearly all our work. I arrange things in order
+before the meal begins, and then by merely touching a button under
+the table the apparatus is set in motion which brings and takes away
+everything in the manner you see."
+
+"It is wonderful," I exclaimed. "And if we are to believe all that
+Thorwald has told us, I suppose you have no servants for any department
+of work."
+
+"You are not entirely right," she returned. "We have excellent servants.
+This obedient power, that does our work so willingly, is our servant,
+and so is the mechanism with which our houses are filled, and through
+which this silent force is exerted. Many of our animals are domesticated
+and trained to do light services, but as for servants of our own flesh
+and blood, no such class exists. We all share whatever work there is,
+and no labor is menial. Whatever I ask others to do I am glad to do for
+them when occasion offers. Do not suppose we are idle. There is work for
+us, but with our abundant strength and continual good health it is never
+a burden. Then there are the duties connected with our higher life and
+education, for we are ever seeking to fit ourselves for a still better
+existence than this."
+
+We had now finished breakfast and were walking through the house.
+Zenith was a beautiful woman, although, from our point of view, of such
+generous proportions. She possessed the perfect form and the vigor and
+health of all the Martians. She was, moreover, graceful, modest, and
+winning. But Thorwald and the other men that we had seen possessed these
+latter qualities also, and Zenith exhibited the same strength of mind
+and the same devotion to lofty aims as her husband. In their equipment
+for the duties of life and in the ability to do valiant service for
+their kind they seemed equal. Evidently neither had a monopoly of any
+class of advantages, either of mind, body, or estate.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIV.
+
+PROCTOR SHOWS US THE EARTH.
+
+
+We discovered at once that the Mars dwellers understand what genuine
+hospitality is, for we found ourselves at perfect liberty to do what
+best pleased us without restraint from our hosts. With so much to tell
+us of their own high civilization and with so many questions still to
+ask about the earth, there was no haste nor undue curiosity. Much less
+was there any attempt yet by Thorwald to resume the argument about the
+habitability of other worlds.
+
+But at the same time we were aware that our friends were at our service,
+and early in the afternoon Thorwald asked us if we could think of
+anything we should like to see.
+
+"Yes," I answered, "I should like to see the earth."
+
+"No doubt, my friend, but I don't see exactly how I am going to take you
+there."
+
+"I did not expect that," said I; "but, after all you have hinted about
+your advance in astronomical science, I thought you might give us a
+pretty good view of the earth without going any nearer to it than we are
+now."
+
+"Oh, that's what you mean, is it? Excuse me for being so dull. Is it not
+singular that I should wait to be asked to show you the wonders of our
+telescopes? Zenith, let us all go with them to see their home, about
+which we have so often speculated.
+
+"We have many good observatories," continued Thorwald, speaking to the
+doctor and me, "some of which are noted for one line of study and some
+for another. The one that has given the most attention to observing the
+earth and that has the best instruments for that work is situated on the
+other side of our planet."
+
+"Then, of course," said I, "we will choose one nearer home for our
+visit."
+
+"Why so?" asked Thorwald. "It is always wise to get the best when you
+can."
+
+"Yes, but we do not want you to take the time and trouble to make a
+journey half around your world just because I said I would like to see
+the earth."
+
+"Oh, our time is yours, and we will not make trouble of it; we will call
+it a pleasure trip. We may as well take the children, Zenith; they will
+enjoy it. How soon can you all be ready?"
+
+"In five minutes," answered Zenith.
+
+"Then we had better get off at once," said Thorwald.
+
+And without further words this remarkable family scattered to different
+parts of the house and in five minutes were ready to begin a journey of
+five or six thousand miles, and the only reason they did not start at
+once was that the doctor and I were not quite so expeditious. We were
+soon on our way, however, having locked no doors behind us and leaving
+everything just as if we were to return in an hour.
+
+We took an electric carriage to the station, and from there went by the
+tubular road to the metropolis. This was a great city whence there was
+direct communication to all the principal centers of population on the
+planet. As we had not been in any haste in making the changes necessary
+to reach this stage of our journey, it was now late in the day, and I
+began to wonder how we were to continue the trip without being out
+in the night. When I mentioned my thought to Thorwald, he removed the
+difficulty in a moment by saying:
+
+"We simply travel west and leave the night behind us. You know the
+surface of Mars, even at the equator, goes east at the rate of only five
+hundred miles an hour, and as our modern cars take us much faster than
+that, it is easy for us to keep ahead of the night by going in the right
+direction. So in making long trips we try to travel west."
+
+"But suppose you want to go east?"
+
+"Then we go west to get east, and we arrange the speed so as to get to
+our destination in the day-time."
+
+We left our car and found another just ready to start for the distant
+city in which our observatory was situated. It was a small car
+comparatively, and we had it all to ourselves. There were all sorts of
+conveniences in it, and we composed ourselves for a good rest. After a
+ride of several hours we reached our destination. It was now about noon,
+so that we had actually made nearly half a day, besides the time spent
+in sleep while riding. I know some of my friends on the earth, who say
+the day is too short for them, would appreciate such an improvement as
+that if they could have it.
+
+We passed part of the afternoon in riding about the city. The same
+language was spoken here as was used on Thorwald's side of the globe;
+but, although communication was so easy, we found enough difference in
+the architecture and in the general appearance of the people to make
+travel interesting.
+
+Toward night we all alighted at the door of the observatory, and the
+doctor and I had the pleasure of making the acquaintance of a man of
+Mars who had spent many years in studying the surface of the earth. It
+may be imagined that he was glad to meet us and to get our answers to
+many questions which had long perplexed him, some of which he had never
+hoped to have solved.
+
+Proctor, for this was the name by which he was introduced, was one of
+the oldest men we had seen, and impressed us as one possessed of great
+wisdom. His manner was so dignified, also, that it seemed quite as
+inappropriate to address him without a title as it was to call our
+hostess plain Zenith. But when I asked Thorwald aside what I should call
+him, he said:
+
+"Call him by his name, just as you do the rest of us. We have but one
+name each."
+
+"I should think that would be confusing," said I. "For example, how are
+you to be distinguished from any other Thorwald?"
+
+"There is no other that I ever heard of. There are names enough to go
+all around."
+
+As night came on we were brought face to face with the great instrument
+whose work of observing the earth was known far and wide.
+
+Proctor was occupied a short time in adjusting it, and then asked us if
+we could recognize what was in the field. I motioned to the doctor, but
+as he insisted that I should take the first view I put my eye to the
+glass with much trepidation. Instead of the magnified disk of the earth,
+which I expected to behold, I saw but a small portion of the surface,
+and that a familiar stretch of coast line. I never knew whether Proctor
+thought by our accent or by the cut of our clothes that we were New
+Englanders, but he had so pointed the telescope that our first sight
+of the earth showed us dear old Massachusetts Bay, with its islands and
+boundaries. I did not speak till the doctor had looked, and then we told
+the others of our pleasant surprise.
+
+Proctor made another adjustment, saying he would bring the globe still
+nearer to us, and we looked and saw a patch of beautiful green country.
+It appeared to be but a few miles away, and we thought we ought to
+distinguish large objects. But the appearance was deceptive in this
+respect, and Proctor told us they had not been able to determine
+definitely whether the earth was inhabited. They could see important
+changes going on from time to time; they believed they could tell
+cultivated from wild land; certain peculiar spots they called large
+cities; and there were many such indications of inhabitants. But they
+had not yet beheld man nor his unquestioned footsteps. As to their
+belief on the subject, they had the strongest faith that the earth was
+peopled by an intelligent race, and Proctor added that he rejoiced to
+see that faith so happily justified by our presence. To which the doctor
+pleasantly replied that he should be sorry to have him judge of the
+intelligence of the race at large from two such inferior specimens.
+
+One question which Proctor asked was, whether we had ever made any
+attempt to communicate with the other planets. We told him we had not,
+but that if we should ever try such a thing it would probably be with
+Mars; but that it would be useless to think of it with our present
+astronomical attainments, for if we should succeed in attracting the
+attention of another world we would not know it, because we could not
+see the answer.
+
+Proctor said they had sometimes seen moving masses which were not
+clouds, but which they took for smoke and were not sure but they might
+be intended for signals. We replied that if it were smoke that they saw
+it was probably caused by forest fires, but if we ever reached the earth
+again we would organize a company and try to make some electric signals
+which they could see.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XV.
+
+A NIGHT ADVENTURE
+
+
+It was late when the conversation closed, and Proctor said we were to
+spend the night with him of course, and in the morning he would take
+pleasure in introducing to us the other members of his household.
+
+The residence buildings, beautiful and commodious structures, adjoined
+the observatory, and to each of us was given a separate apartment. After
+Proctor had left us, Thorwald came into my room a moment and I said to
+him:
+
+"Proctor is a friend of yours, is he not?"
+
+"Certainly," answered Thorwald, "what could he be but a friend? But then
+I never saw him before today."
+
+"Is it possible? Are strangers always treated so hospitably?"
+
+"I see nothing unusual in his treatment of us. We are always at
+perfect liberty to stay where ever night overtakes us, and it makes no
+difference with the quality of the hospitality whether the guests are
+acquaintances or not."
+
+The memory of that night will remain with me many years. Before falling
+asleep I let my mind dwell on the singular circumstances in which we
+were placed and the strange manner of our leaving the earth. I had never
+experienced anything that seemed more real, and yet I could not make it
+appear quite reasonable that we were in truth living on the planet Mars.
+All I could say was that it was an instance where the facts were against
+the theory, and I knew that in such cases it was always safest to
+believe in the facts. I could distinctly remember each step of our
+journey, and there could be no mistake about our present understanding.
+What settled the question more firmly than ever was this thought: If we
+were not on Mars, where were we? We must be somewhere.
+
+By the time I had disposed of all my doubts I was becoming drowsy, and
+then I began to think of the doctor and his unfortunate condition of
+mind. This malady would doubtless increase and I should have to look
+out for him, and at the same time fill the arduous position of the only
+sound representative of our race in Mars. I resolved to try once more to
+make my companion see how ridiculous his strange fancy was and realize
+the danger of clinging to it.
+
+With this thought my brain lost coherence, and I passed over the
+invisible boundary into dreamland. It was a beautiful evening in summer.
+I was at home among my friends and we were sitting in the open air. The
+doctor was there, taking his turn with me in telling the story of our
+adventures. This went on till our listeners were tired out, and then
+one of the company gave a little variety to the occasion by singing a
+capital song.
+
+Here the scene changed to the country. It was morning in the woods. The
+trees wore their spring foliage, bright flowers spread their beauty and
+fragrance around us, and the air was filled with the music of birds. The
+sweet notes of these songsters were by far the most vivid part of the
+dream. Now loud, now soft, the unbroken melody absorbed our attention
+and made it difficult for us to understand how our situation again
+gradually changed, until the air became piercingly cold, the cruel wind
+beat upon us furiously, and the violent elements seemed bent upon our
+destruction.
+
+The doctor and I were alone, and the surroundings bore a strange
+resemblance to the inhospitable surface of the moon. But what are those
+sweet sounds still ringing in our ears? Sure no birds could live in
+such a wild place. No, it is not a bird's song. It is more like a human
+voice. I thought I had never before heard music so pure and rich. But
+wait--had I not heard something like it once before? There was a mystery
+about it that enhanced its sweetness. Now I was really thinking, for
+before I knew how it happened I found myself wide awake. The dream was
+over, but, oh! wonderful dream, the best of it remained. My sense of
+hearing, always acute, had waked long before and left my other faculties
+to slumber on and dream out the unreal accompaniments of a real voice.
+For now, with my eyes open and my mind released from sleep, I still
+heard that marvelous, half-familiar song.
+
+Could I be deceived? I determined to know beyond a doubt that I was
+awake. I rose and, throwing on a dressing gown, turned up the light and
+walked about the room. I looked in the mirror to see if my eyes were
+open, and then ate a little fruit from a tempting dish that stood on the
+table. In one corner of the room was an elegant writing desk. I opened
+it, found its appointments complete, drew up a comfortable chair, and,
+choosing pen and paper, determined to record my impressions for future
+perusal, if by any means my memory should fail me. This is what I wrote:
+
+"I, the undersigned, am in my private room in the house of Proctor, the
+astronomer, province of ----, planet Mars. It is about the middle of
+the night, precise date unknown. I am wide awake, in my usual health,
+appetite good, heart a little fluttering but temperature and pulse
+normal. I have been awakened from sleep by strains of distant music,
+which mingled with my dreams but refused to be silenced when the rest
+of the dreams melted away. Now, while I am writing, the delicious melody
+fills my ears. I never before heard so sweet a voice, unless, indeed,
+I have heard the same voice before. In regard to this I can form no
+present opinion. I must take another time to consider it. Now I cannot
+think, I am so engrossed in listening to the singer's entrancing notes.
+The song is so full of light and cheer and sends such beautiful thoughts
+trooping through my brain that I wish it may go on forever."
+
+I signed my name to this with a firm hand, and then, as I leaned back
+in my chair to close my eyes and drink in more deeply still this rare
+enjoyment, darkness seemed to fall suddenly upon my spirit. The voice
+ceased, and in a moment the last sweet echoes had died away.
+
+I crept into bed as speedily as possible, to try to forget my sadness
+in sleep. But oblivion would not be forced, and so I took what comfort
+I could in thinking of that interrupted song, and in trying to feel over
+again in memory that pleasure which my fleshly ears no longer gave me. I
+could still recognize a distinct tinge of familiarity in the notes, but
+when I came to the question of locating the singer I was utterly without
+a clew. I knew well enough that there was no earthly voice which could
+enter into the comparison, and so I need waste no time in going over
+that part of my life. But I had heard no singing of any kind in Mars
+before this night. How was it possible that I could have experienced
+that delightful sensation before and not be able to fix the place or
+time? It was a puzzling question, but I refused to give it up I knew the
+song, and the memory of it warmed my heart with each recurring flash,
+but the singer I did not know.
+
+At length I fell asleep, and woke to find the sun of Mars shining
+pleasantly upon my bed. I recalled at once the experience of the night
+and confirmed my memory by finding on the desk the paper I had written,
+and still there was enough suspicion in my mind of the reality of the
+whole thing to make me anxious to know if the doctor had heard what had
+so impressed me. But on going to find him I discovered that he had left
+his room, and so it happened that we did not meet till the family came
+together in the morning reception room, in preparation for breakfast.
+Here Proctor presented us to his wife, Fronda, and his daughters, two
+stately girls, whom he did not name. Thorwald and Zenith kindly helped
+the doctor and me to answer the many questions which these new friends
+were so eager to ask, so that, as breakfast proceeded, all became
+engaged in the conversation. My own mind, however, was somewhat
+preoccupied. I thought perhaps Thorwald might be in haste to depart for
+home, and I was determined not to let the company separate till I had
+made an attempt to discover who my midnight singer was. So, when there
+came a convenient lull in the talk, I made bold to say:
+
+"Can anyone present tell me who it was that woke me in the night 'with
+concord of sweet sounds'?"
+
+A general smile passed around the table at this question, while Fronda
+looked at me and said pleasantly,
+
+"It must have been Avis. She is very fond of singing and considers all
+hours her own. I hope it did not disturb your slumbers."
+
+"It was no disturbance, I assure you. But is Avis present? I should like
+to thank her for the great pleasure she gave me."
+
+"No," replied Fronda, "she took an early breakfast and started out for a
+long walk."
+
+"Then I may as well tell you all about it," I said.
+
+And I related my dream and then read to them all the paper I had
+written. Everyone listened with the greatest eagerness and showed more
+interest, I thought, than the circumstances as I had related them called
+for, but I afterwards learned that they had excellent reasons for it.
+
+When breakfast was over I was glad to find that Thorwald seemed to be in
+no haste to go home. I began to feel an intense longing to see Avis, and
+I had planned, if Thorwald should insist on leaving too soon, to
+propose to Proctor that I would stay a few days and assist him in the
+observatory.
+
+The doctor and I soon found an opportunity to speak together privately,
+and he began:
+
+"So the voice of Avis was a little familiar to you?"
+
+"Yes," I replied, "but I am not able to tell from what niche in memory's
+hall it comes."
+
+"Does it recall anything you heard or saw on the moon?"
+
+"That dreadful place? No, indeed," I replied. "Are you going to bring up
+Mona again?"
+
+"You asked me never to mention that name again, and now you have spoken
+it."
+
+"Well," I asked, "will you forgive me for that foolish request if I will
+let you talk to me about her now?"
+
+"I am not anxious to talk about her," the doctor answered, "especially
+as I know the topic is not a pleasant one to you."
+
+Without noticing this last remark, I asked abruptly:
+
+"Was Mona a good singer?"
+
+"Fair."
+
+"As good as Avis?"
+
+"I think so, though I am not a critic."
+
+"Did I understand you to say she was handsome?"
+
+"Beautiful."
+
+"And I fell in love with her?"
+
+"You had all the symptoms. But why do you insist on talking on such a
+disagreeable subject? Come, let's go and find Proctor."
+
+"Wait. One question more. Have you seen Avis?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"Who is she?"
+
+"I believe she is a friend of the family merely."
+
+"Does she live here?"
+
+"She is staying here for the present."
+
+"Is she beautiful, too?"
+
+"I shall leave you to be your own judge of that when you see her. Now,
+not another question."
+
+"Well," I said, as we started to find some of the others, "if the Mona
+of your imagination gives you as much pleasure as Avis has given me
+before I have seen her, I do not wonder that you cherish her memory."
+
+This conversation left me still more anxious to see Avis, and I looked
+for her return every moment, but the morning passed and finally the day
+wore to its close without bringing us together. I did not like to make
+my strong desire known by asking after her, and, besides, I began to
+have a slight suspicion that there was some design in keeping us from
+meeting.
+
+When it was time to retire that night I took the doctor to my room, and
+I think it was a surprise to both of us when we fell to talking about
+Mona again. At my request the doctor related at considerable length our
+experience on the moon, as he remembered it, and set Mona out in most
+attractive style. I let him go on, without laughing at him as I had
+formerly done, and the longer he talked the more serious and thoughtful
+I became. As he told the details of our daily life, recalling many of
+Mona's words and actions, a new thought flashed through my mind--the
+thought that possibly the doctor was right after all. At that instant,
+when my interest was most intense, once more the distant echoes of that
+happy song fell upon my ear.
+
+That was the magic influence needed for my restoration. At once, and all
+at once, down fell the walls that had so unhappily obscured my mental
+vision, and left my memory clear as day. I jumped from my seat, seized
+the doctor's hand, and exclaimed:
+
+"I see it all now, old fellow. You were right and I was the crazy one."
+
+"Good, I rejoice with you."
+
+With that voice coming nearer and pouring its melody upon us, we could
+not say more at the time. I threw myself into a chair, let my head
+fall back, and closed my eyes to enjoy it. The doctor, feeling it to be
+better to let me think it out by myself, stole away and left me alone.
+
+Alone, but not lonesome, for was not Mona with me? I could see her every
+look and motion, and experienced with a great throb of the heart that my
+love had only strengthened with my period of forgetfulness. I remembered
+her last words, that very likely we would never see her again. But why
+should not she be saved as easily as we were? What if she were even now
+afloat in the ocean? But perhaps some one had rescued her. Could she
+be in Mars and singing for other ears than mine? Singing! Why, who is
+singing now, right here in this very house? Can it be possible? How
+stupid I have been. Perhaps I can see her now.
+
+I jumped up and rushed from the room, but was no sooner outside my door
+than the voice began to die again, and in a moment the last notes had
+floated away. I could not determine from which direction the song had
+come and had no clew to guide me toward the singer. It was very late and
+all the house was quiet. Unable to pursue my quest, I reentered my room,
+but it was hours before I could compose my mind sufficiently to sleep.
+The possible joy that awaited me in the morning, the dreadful fear
+that I should be disappointed, the violent beating of my heart at every
+thought of Mona, and my anxiety lest she might even now be exposed to
+danger somewhere, all combined to keep me excited and restless the whole
+night long. As I lay tossing and thinking, my most serious doubt was
+occasioned by the reflection that people of such exalted morals would
+not deceive me by declaring that this singer's name was Avis if it were
+not true. But then I thought further that the doctor had given Mona the
+name by which we knew her, and that Fronda would have just as much right
+to give her a new name. Perhaps her real name after all was Avis.
+
+When the welcome morning came I found the doctor and gave him a hearty
+grasp to show him that there had been no lapse in my mental condition,
+but I asked him to say nothing to Thorwald just at present about my
+recovery. Then we hurried down to the reception room and, early as it
+was, found most of the household already there. After looking eagerly
+around and seeing only those whom I had previously met, I inquired, with
+as little apparent concern as possible:
+
+"Hasn't Avis appeared? I thought she was an early riser."
+
+To which Fronda quickly replied:
+
+"Oh, Avis was up half an hour ago, and asked me to excuse her to the
+company, saying she was going to spend the morning with a friend she met
+yesterday."
+
+This was a hard blow for me, and it was with difficulty that I
+restrained my impatience, but I was a little consoled with the idea that
+the morning only was to be consumed by this visit, and that we might
+look for a return by noon.
+
+After breakfast, when Proctor had gone to the observatory and Fronda
+and her daughters were showing Zenith about the house, the doctor begged
+Thorwald to resume the talk begun on board the ship, which had
+been interrupted by the discovery of land. As Thorwald expressed a
+willingness to comply, the doctor continued:
+
+"You were trying to convince me of the probability of life in other
+worlds besides the earth and Mars, and in your attempt to show a
+likeness between the earth and other parts of the universe, you were
+speaking on the interesting subject of meteorites."
+
+"I remember," answered Thorwald, "I was just asking you what theory you
+of the earth hold on that important topic."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVI
+
+AN UNLIKELY STORY
+
+
+"If the doctor," I said, "will pardon me, I will say, in relation to
+the origin of meteorites, that our scientific men have held from time
+to time many different theories. Some have believed that they are
+aggregations of metallic vapors which, meeting in the atmosphere,
+solidify there and fall, just as watery vapors solidify and come down in
+the form of hailstones. Others have held that they are thrown out from
+the center of the earth by volcanic action; and others still that they
+all came from the moon when her volcanoes were active. These latter
+theories imply that the meteorites in immense quantities are revolving
+around the earth, and that occasionally they become entangled in her
+atmosphere and fall to the surface.
+
+"And now, Thorwald, I am tempted to repay all your great kindness to us
+with an act of ingratitude, nothing less than the relation of a story."
+
+This rather foolhardy speech of mine made the doctor wince, and I am not
+sure but he began to fear that my mind was weakening in a new direction.
+But I had my own excuse for my action, which I felt that I could explain
+to him at some future time. The fact is, I was so disturbed in my mind
+about Mona and was anticipating so much from meeting the so called Avis,
+that I thought I could never sit still all the morning and listen to a
+dry scientific discussion. It seemed to me that I could stand it better
+if I could do part of the talking myself, and so I took advantage of the
+subject before us to propose relating an extravagant tale that I once
+had heard.
+
+In contrast with the doctor's frowns, Thorwald showed a lively
+appreciation and insisted that I should be heard.
+
+"Not another word from me," he said, "till we have had the story."
+
+With such encouragement, it was easy for me to proceed.
+
+"I fear you will be disappointed," I said, "for what I have rashly
+called a story is only a fancy founded on the idea that the meteorites
+were at some time shot out of the volcanoes of the moon. I had it from a
+friend of mine, whose mind is evidently more open to the notion of life
+in other worlds than is that of my companion here. As the story was
+written long before the moon came down to visit the people of the
+earth in their own home, the writer did not have the advantage of the
+discoveries made by the doctor and myself, and it is well for me that
+the doctor's friend, Mona, is not here to disprove any of my statements.
+
+"On account of the smaller volume of the moon, the attraction of
+gravitation on its surface is only one-quarter that of the earth, and it
+is estimated that, if a projectile were hurled from the moon with two or
+three times the velocity of a cannon ball, it would pass entirely beyond
+her attraction and be drawn to the earth, reaching it at the rate of
+some seven miles a second.
+
+"Now we all know--this is the way the story runs--that the moon was once
+inhabited by a highly intelligent race. They tell us it is a cold, dead
+world now, not at all fit for inhabitants. But that is because its day
+is passed. Being so much smaller than the earth it cooled off quicker,
+and its life-bearing period long since found its end. Men have often
+speculated on the idea that our race will one day fail and the time come
+when the last generation shall pass away and leave the earth a bare and
+ugly thing, to continue yet longer its lonely, weary journey around a
+failing sun. That day the moon has seen. That direful fate the race of
+moon men have experienced. Some poor being, the last of his kind, was
+left sole monarch of a dying world, and with the moon all before him
+where to choose, chose rather to die with the rest and leave his world
+to cold and darkness.
+
+"From our own experience we do not know how high a state of civilization
+can be reached by giving a race all the time that is needed. But we know
+that before the inhabitants of the moon passed off the stage they had
+attained to the highest possible degree of intelligence. They began
+existence at a very low plane, developed gradually through long periods
+of time--there has never been any haste in these matters--and when they
+had reached their maturity as a race of intellectual and moral beings,
+primitive man was just beginning on the vast undertaking of subduing the
+earth, a task not yet accomplished.
+
+"The incident I propose to relate occurred in antediluvian times, when
+there were giants in the earth who lived a thousand years. Then matter
+reigned, not mind. It was the age of brawn. Everything material existed
+on a gigantic scale, and man's architectural works, rude in design but
+well adapted for shelter and protection, were proportioned to his own
+stature and rivaled the everlasting hills in size and solidity. And they
+needed something substantial for protection, for war was their business
+and their pass time. They lived for nothing but to fight. It was brother
+against brother, neighbor against neighbor, tribe against tribe; and the
+man who could not fight, and fight hard, had no excuse for living. War
+was not an art, but a natural outburst of brutal instincts. A giant
+glories in his strength and cultivates it as naturally as a bird its
+song. But it is pleasant to consider the fact that as man's mental
+and moral qualities have developed his body has become smaller. As the
+necessity for that immense physical strength gradually passed away,
+nature, abhorring such unnecessary waste of material, applied to us her
+inexorable laws whereby a thing or a state of things no longer useful
+slowly fades away, and our bodies accommodated themselves to new
+conditions.
+
+"But in those early times men needed great physical strength and long
+life to bring the world into subjection, and until that was done they
+could give little attention to the cultivation of the finer qualities
+of their incipient manhood. They were handicapped by the fact that the
+lower animals had had the earth to themselves a few million years, more
+or less, and no puny race could ever have driven them to the wall.
+
+"At length, when the conflict was well nigh over, with victory in sight,
+men had abandoned the struggle and were using all their fierce strength
+in fighting each other. This had been going on so long and with such
+deadly results that it seemed as if the race must be exterminated unless
+some superior power could step in from the outside and prevent it.
+
+"We can easily understand that there was no such thing as science then.
+Men considered the sun, for example, only as a very useful thing which
+brought them light with which they could see their foe, and the moon as
+a mysterious object sent to make the night a little less dark. Sun
+and moon and shining stars were all set in the sky for them, and went
+through their wonderful and complicated movements solely for their
+amusement.
+
+"But what was the real condition of things on the moon at that
+time? Why, there was a race of people there of such intelligence and
+scientific attainments that they were seeing plainly enough everything
+that was taking place on the earth. This will not appear very strange
+when we consider our remarkable success in scanning the surface of the
+moon at the present day, and remember that the inhabitants of the moon
+were then nearing the close of their history, and so at the height of
+their civilization.
+
+"Yes, they had watched the coming of man upon the stage with the deepest
+interest--with a neighborly interest, in fact--seeing in him the promise
+of a companion race and one worthy of the magnificent globe which they
+could see was so much larger than their own. Their powerful instruments
+enabled them to see objects on the earth as distinctly as we now see
+through our telescopes the features of a landscape a few miles distant.
+
+"Keeping thus so close an acquaintance with man and all his works, they
+rejoiced at every success he achieved over the lower forms of life, and
+grieved at all his failures. Especially were they pained when he tired
+of the conflict with his natural foe, and began to battle with his own
+kind. As this inhuman strife continued, the folly and wickedness of
+it roused to the fullest extent the interest and sympathy of the
+moon-dwellers, and they began to ask each other what they could do to
+put a stop to it. They themselves had long since given up war and had
+even outgrown all individual quarrels, and they could not endure with
+patience what was then taking place right under their eyes. But
+they found it easier to declaim against the evil than to suggest any
+practical method of stopping it. Although so near them in one sense, to
+the other senses the field of conflict was some two hundred and forty
+thousand miles away.
+
+"However, of what value is a high state of civilization if it cannot
+help a neighboring world in such an emergency as this? If they could
+only communicate in some way with men they could soon make them
+understand that it would be better for them to cease their fighting and
+finish their legitimate work of subduing the lower forms of creation.
+But how to open communication! The problem long remained unsolved,
+the condition of things on the earth in the meantime growing worse and
+worse. At last it was suggested that a shot might be fired which would
+reach the earth. This was a bold suggestion, but it was well known that
+they had explosives powerful enough to carry a projectile beyond the
+moon's attraction, and no one could give any good reason why such a
+projectile, being entirely free of the moon, should not reach the earth
+under the power of gravitation. It was determined to try the experiment,
+and after due preparation, which was comparatively easy with their
+facilities, an enormous shot was hurled forth. It was large enough to be
+seen by the aid of their powerful telescopes as it sped on its way,
+and it was with intense interest that they saw it enter the earth's
+attraction and finally strike the surface of that globe. Now that so
+much had been accomplished, they saw immense possibilities before them.
+What they now wanted to do was to use their discovery to make men give
+up their fighting and turn to the arts of peace.
+
+"How could they do this? Some proposed that they should make hollow
+shot, fill them with Bibles and other books, and bombard the earth with
+good precepts till men should learn and be tamed. But from their close
+observation of mankind the moon-dwellers knew they were too uncivilized
+to get any good from books, and that they certainly could not learn
+without a teacher. Hence arose the suggestion that missionaries be
+sent in place of books. As soon as this idea was broached thousands of
+volunteers offered themselves, and the plan would certainly have been
+attempted if there had been the slightest possibility that one could
+live to reach the earth.
+
+"The next proposal came from the medical profession. Long before this
+time, when the inhabitants of the moon were sometimes governed by their
+passions and before the day of peace and good will had fully arrived, it
+had been discovered that what was known as the pugnacious instinct was
+only a disease, bad blood in fact as well as in name, and a remedy had
+been found for it. This was nothing less than the bi-chloride of comet.
+Small comets, such as we call meteorites, were picked up on the surface
+of the moon and put to this practical use. This medicine, administered
+as an hypodermic injection, produced wonderful effects, the patient,
+although afflicted with the most quarrelsome disposition, becoming as
+mild and harmless as a lamb. However warlike one might be, a few days'
+treatment would take the fighting spirit out of him so completely that
+the mere doubling up his fists and placing them in front of his face
+would make him feel ill. Peace societies got hold of the remedy and
+tried it on the soldiers of the standing armies with such success that
+war had to be abandoned because the men would not fight.
+
+"And now the old recipe was brought out, a large quantity of the
+medicine manufactured, and bombs made and filled with it, each one
+containing full directions for its use written in Volapiik. These were
+fired to the earth, and, strange to say, the simple language was soon
+learned, and the moon-dwellers had the satisfaction of seeing men
+rapidly metamorphosed into a peaceable, friendly race. Thus the moon
+directly influenced and governed affairs on the earth. Looked at from
+that distance it seems to have been the most remarkable case of the tail
+wagging the dog that the earth had ever seen.
+
+"But we may as well relate the sequel. The effect of the treatment
+lasted only a few hundred years, and as it was the moon's policy never
+to repeat a cure, men in time became as bad as ever again, and so at
+last the flood had to come and wipe them off the face of the earth."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVII
+
+THE DOCTOR IS CONVINCED
+
+
+As I finished the doctor looked somewhat bored, but Thorwald was kind
+enough to thank me, and then, at our earnest solicitation, he resumed
+his argument.
+
+"You have told me," he said, "of some of your earlier beliefs about the
+origin of meteorites. Have you any more modern views?"
+
+To this the doctor replied: "If my friend here has really finished
+talking for a while I will say, Thorwald, that the theories already
+spoken of seem to be disproved by the discovery that these stones enter
+the earth's atmosphere with a planetary velocity. A body falling from
+an infinite distance--that is, impelled only by the attraction of
+gravitation--would strike the earth with a velocity of only six or
+seven miles a second, while the meteorites come at the rate of twenty
+to thirty miles a second, the earth's rate of revolution being nineteen
+miles in the same time. It is found that a necessary consequence of
+these velocities is that the meteors move about the sun, and not
+the earth, as the controlling body. Our latest study points to the
+conclusion that they are of cometary origin, and, as comets have been
+known to divide, some scientists believe the meteorites are fragments
+of exploded comets. At any rate, they are found in the company of these
+mysterious bodies, and appear to have similarly eccentric orbits."
+
+"Your studies are leading you in the right direction," said Thorwald.
+"The meteorites do indeed come from the regions of space, and if they
+have any story to tell it is a story of those distant parts of the
+universe about which any testimony is valuable. Let us look again at the
+fragment we are supposed to hold in our hand. Can we tell of what it is
+composed, or is its substance something entirely new? I am sure you must
+have analyzed it down to its minutest particle, and if so you have found
+it contains nothing foreign to the earth. There is not a single element
+in the meteorite that does not exist also in the crust of the earth.
+Tell me, Doctor, how many elements have you discovered in them?"
+
+"Nearly thirty," answered the doctor. "And one interesting fact is,
+that the three elements most common in the earth--iron, silicon, and
+oxygen--are also found most widely distributed among the meteorites."
+
+"That is an exceedingly significant fact," said Thorwald; "and now
+do you not see how strongly the meteorites confirm the story of the
+spectrum, and how everything tells us the universe is one in its
+physical structure? By these two widely different sources of information
+you find that beyond doubt other heavenly bodies are made of like
+materials with the earth. Is it not time now to give your imagination
+just a moment's play and look upon some of those distant orbs as the
+probable abode of life?"
+
+"There I cannot follow you," responded the doctor. "I am wanting in
+imagination; probably born so, as some people are born without an ear
+for music. Let us stick to facts. Among the recent discoveries in
+the field of which we have been talking was the finding of some small
+diamonds in a meteoric mass. Upon this some enthusiastic writer, whose
+imaginative soul would be your delight, Thorwald, built this argument:
+'Diamonds being pure carbon, their existence necessitates a previous
+vegetable growth. Hence vegetable life in other worlds is proven, and if
+vegetable life, it is fair to presume the existence of animal life
+also. Of course, then, there must be intelligent life, and therefore the
+stars, or the planets that revolve around the stars, are all filled with
+men.' This I call not reasoning, but guessing."
+
+"And still," quickly responded Thorwald, "the discovery of diamonds in
+meteorites was a valuable link in the chain of evidence which you are
+putting together. Keep on with your investigations. Some time positive
+knowledge will come to you as it has come to us. But let me appeal once
+more to your reason. At an earlier stage of development your race no
+doubt believed the earth was the center of the universe, around which
+all the heavenly bodies swept in magnificent circles. You have learned
+that the earth itself, which was formerly thought to be so important an
+object, is only one of those heavenly bodies flying through space. You
+find the earth resembles its nearest companions in being subject to the
+same laws of motion which govern them, but you have yet to learn that
+they resemble the earth in the main purpose of their creation. You go
+into the forest and see thousands of trees. You can find no two alike,
+and yet all are alike in every material respect. Even the myriads of
+leaves are all different, and yet all alike. So why may not the millions
+of stars that fill the sky be like our own sun and like each other,
+differing in such immaterial things as size and brilliancy, color and
+constitution, but alike in the chief object of their being, the giving
+of light and heat, as vivifying forces to dark bodies surrounding them?
+And why may not these planets resemble the earth in being, at some stage
+of their existence, the theater of God's great designs?
+
+"Let me try to excite your imagination in another way, Doctor. Suppose
+you should by and by awake and find this visit to Mars only a dream, and
+then suppose it should be revealed to you in some superhuman way
+that man was indeed the only race of intelligent beings in the whole
+universe; that the other planets and all the stars were of no real
+use; that not one world from that vast region of the milky way and far
+distant nebulae would ever send forth a note of praise to its Creator,
+and that the tiny earth was, after all, the center and sum of the
+universe--tell me, would you not feel lonesome?"
+
+"When you put it in that way, Thorwald," replied the doctor, "I begin
+to see how unreasonable my position must appear to you. But, however
+pleasant the idea, I do not see how I can believe that other worlds are
+inhabited without more evidence than we now possess. This is speaking,
+of course, without the knowledge we have gained since coming here. But I
+do not mind saying that your talk has made me wish I could believe it."
+
+I was glad for several reasons that the doctor acknowledged as much as
+this. First, for Thorwald's sake; for I had been thinking the doctor's
+obduracy was proving a poor reward for our friend's great kindness to
+us. I rejoiced, too, that my companion was beginning to show our new
+acquaintance that, although he had little imagination, he was possessed
+of a good heart. And, finally, I was myself so much in sympathy with
+Thorwald's views that I was glad to see his arguments begin to make some
+impression on the doctor's mind.
+
+But now it seemed to me that Thorwald had much to tell us from his own
+experience. He had talked so far on this subject from the standpoint
+of our earthly knowledge, but had hinted more than once that the
+inhabitants of Mars had more positive evidence than we had ever dreamed
+could be possible. So I said:
+
+"Your arguments have been very acceptable to me, Thorwald, but can you
+not strengthen even my faith by speaking now from the results of your
+own more advanced studies? We must base our belief in the existence of
+life outside the earth on mere probabilities, which, however strong,
+lead only to theory and leave us still in doubt. Have you any certain
+knowledge on the subject, or, I might say, had you any before we came to
+see you?"
+
+"Oh, yes," replied Thorwald, "we have long had evidence almost as
+positive as your presence here, fresh from one of our sister planets.
+It will give me great pleasure to tell you of some of our marvelous
+achievements in astronomy. The doctor says he would like to believe
+in the habitability of other worlds; he must believe in it before I am
+through if he has any faith in me.
+
+"I would like to say, to begin with, that whatever we have accomplished
+in this science you on the earth can accomplish. I know enough by
+comparing your development with our own to feel sure that our present
+condition foreshadows yours, and that all the knowledge we possess in
+various directions will come in time to you. Let nothing discourage you
+in your quest for knowledge. If you seem to have arrived at the limit of
+possibilities in the telescope, for example, have patience. Difficulties
+which you think insurmountable, time will remove, and you will be able
+to penetrate more and more into the mysteries of the universe.
+
+"Our telescopes have gradually increased in power until we have been
+able to accomplish things that you will no doubt think truly marvelous.
+But, before you call any achievement in this science impossible, just
+look back and compare the ignorance of the early inhabitants of the
+earth with your present knowledge; and do not be so proud of the wisdom
+already attained that you cannot also look forward to an enlarged
+comprehension of things you now call mysteries, and to a much closer
+acquaintance with the works of God.
+
+"To our increasing vision the heavens have continued to unfold their
+wonders. We have penetrated far into the depths of space only to marvel,
+at each new revelation, at the power and wisdom of the Creator. The
+number of stars discovered to our view would be incredible to you, and
+yet it will be interesting to you to learn that we can still place no
+bounds to creation. We have, it is true, found the limits of what we
+call our universe and have mapped out all its boundaries. When this had
+been done we tried to pierce the surrounding darkness, but for a long
+time, in spite of our belief that we could not yet see the end, all
+beyond seemed a void. Recently, however, our faith has been rewarded,
+for we can now see other universes, buried in far space but revealed
+dimly to the higher powers of our telescopes.
+
+"But you are doubtless eager to hear of some more definite knowledge
+gained from this wide domain. Well, we have determined the distances,
+size, and motions of many of the stars, resolved star clusters and
+nebulae, solved the mystery of the double and variable stars, and, what
+is of more consequence than all these things, we have in many instances
+discovered the secondary bodies themselves, revolving around a central
+sun. We now know, what we so long suspected, that the rolling stars are
+suns like our own, giving light and heat to attending worlds. With this
+knowledge, can you wonder, Doctor, that we acquired the belief that
+these worlds, resembling so much the planets of our own system, are fit
+homes for intelligent beings?"
+
+"I cannot see," replied the doctor, "that such a belief necessarily
+follows your discovery, which, I must own, was an exceedingly valuable
+one. I can readily believe that each star that shines in our sky is a
+sun surrounded by dependent bodies so dark as to be invisible through
+our terrestrial telescopes, but still I presume even your instruments
+are not powerful enough to find any inhabitants on those distant
+worlds?"
+
+"No," replied Thorwald, "but for what other conceivable purpose were
+these bodies created?"
+
+"I frankly acknowledge that I am not able to answer that question," said
+the doctor. "If you have many more wonderful discoveries to relate I
+shall soon have to own myself convinced."
+
+"I am trying to convince your reason," resumed Thorwald, "without the
+aid of positive evidence, but I may as well proceed now to show you what
+further knowledge we have gained.
+
+"The nearer planets of our own solar system have been naturally the
+objects of our close scrutiny. As our telescopes increased in power we
+diligently studied the surface of these globes, searching for signs
+of life. We mapped out their features, noted the various phenomena of
+season and climate, and discovered many ways in which they seemed to
+be like our world. But for a long time we found no direct evidence that
+they were inhabited.
+
+"At length, however, one ardent philosopher, full of hope, as we all
+were, that we had neighbors on some of these globes, brought out the
+idea that if these neighbors were as far advanced in astronomical
+science as we were, there ought to be some means of communication
+between one world and another. The thought took at once, and occasioned
+the most lively interest. We had no doubt, from what we had learned of
+these planets, that they were fitted to be, at some time, the home of
+intelligent beings. Our question was whether the inhabitable period of
+either of them coincided with that of Mars, and, if so, whether the race
+was sufficiently developed to be able to see us as well as we could see
+them.
+
+"The first means suggested to attract the attention of such a race of
+beings was fire. You can imagine that we could get together material
+enough to make a pretty big blaze, and we did. We lighted immense
+fires in various places and kept them burning a long time, but without
+accomplishing anything. We scanned minutely the surface of each
+planet, but saw no sign anywhere that our effort at communication was
+recognized.
+
+"Disappointed, but not discouraged, we determined next to try a system
+of simple hieroglyphics by throwing up huge mounds on one of our plains.
+We thought, if other eyes were studying Mars as closely as we were
+searching the surface of our sister planets for signs of life, that
+they would notice any unusual change in our appearance. Then if they did
+notice it we hoped some means would be found to let us know it.
+
+"It was decided to try first the figure of the circle, because we
+knew that the form of all heavenly bodies must be the most familiar
+to intelligent life wherever it existed. It took years of labor to
+construct the mound, for it was thought best to have it large enough
+to give the experiment a thorough trial. And now you may believe we
+considered ourselves well repaid for all our toil and expense when, soon
+after the circle was completed, our telescopes showed us a similar
+form actually growing upon the surface of both Saturn and Uranus. We
+immediately replied by beginning the construction of a square, and
+before this was finished both planets began to answer, one with the
+triangle and the other with the crescent. The latter was made by Uranus,
+and as soon as it was finished the triangle began to appear beside it,
+showing to us that Uranus was reading from Saturn also.
+
+"Other signs followed, although, of course, the work was very slow, and
+the experiments are still in progress. Some slight beginning has been
+made toward the interchange of ideas. The time and labor required will
+alone prevent extended communication, which would make it possible to
+form, in the course of ages, a mutual language. As we were the first to
+start it we propose to try to control the conversation, but if Saturn
+and Uranus choose to steal our idea and gossip between themselves, we
+know of no way to stop them."
+
+As Thorwald proceeded with this marvelous recital, it was interesting
+to watch the doctor's face. It was so apparent to me that he was fast
+losing his skepticism that I was not surprised to hear him say:
+
+"Thorwald, one fact is worth more to me than a world of theory, and if
+you had begun by relating this wonderful experience you would not have
+found me so incredulous. Who could refuse to believe with such testimony
+before him? What news this will be to take back to the earth! But you
+have, doubtless, other discoveries to relate to us. Excuse me," the
+doctor continued, turning to me, "for interrupting, even for a moment,
+our friend's most interesting discourse."
+
+"Let me say," resumed Thorwald, "that your interruption has been helpful
+to me, for now I know you have lost your doubts and believe with us in
+this matter."
+
+"These efforts at communication have occupied us for generations, and
+the close study which we have been obliged to give to the surface of the
+other planets has made us well acquainted with their characteristics. We
+have found many likenesses to our own world, as well as various points
+of difference. The succession of the seasons has been an interesting
+phenomenon. We have watched with delight the ever-changing rings of
+our neighbor, Saturn, and can show you pictures of them as they were
+thousands of years ago."
+
+"We have taken great pleasure in observing the round of seasons on
+the surface of the earth, not dreaming that we should ever have the
+privilege of talking face to face with its inhabitants."
+
+"Well, now that we are here, Thorwald," said the doctor, "we want to get
+all the information possible. So please go on and tell us more of your
+discoveries. How about those bodies that you have found circling like
+planets around other suns? Have you any evidence in regard to their
+inhabitants? Your telescopes cannot surely bring any such bodies near
+enough to enable you to communicate with them."
+
+"True," replied Thorwald, "but this is another instance where nature has
+lent us her assistance. If you have been surprised at some things that
+I have already said, you will probably find what I am about to relate
+equally outside of your experience."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVIII.
+
+STRUCK BY A COMET.
+
+
+"The most remarkable event in the realm of matter that ever occurred
+in connection with this planet, of which we have a record, was its
+collision with a comet. This was many ages ago and it made an epoch in
+our history, so that we say such a thing occurred so many years before
+or after the collision. Although the records are rather meager we know
+enough of the details to have a fair understanding of the wonderful
+event.
+
+"The comet had no established period, as so many others have, but
+seemed to be an entirely new-comer, and from its first appearance showed
+plainly that it was making straight for our planet. The astronomers
+predicted at once what the inevitable result would be, and you can
+imagine the consternation of the world as this monstrous, fiery object
+bore down upon us, increasing in size and splendor every day, until
+it filled half the sky and threatened to engulf us in flame and
+destruction. There seemed to be no possible escape, and, in fact, there
+was to be no escape from a collision, but almost all the harm that
+followed was the result of pure fright. For as the comet came rushing
+upon us the whole hemisphere of Mars was filled with its blazing
+substance, which appeared, however, to burn itself out in our
+atmosphere, and to leave, in most cases, nothing to reach the ground.
+
+"Perhaps you have seen a shower of falling stars on the earth, brilliant
+and threatening in appearance, but causing in reality little damage. So
+the comet came to us. Its immense, fiery volume, which filled us with
+such dread, was so diffused that it was nearly all consumed by impact
+with our atmosphere. But there was a great solid nucleus, which struck
+the ground with immense force, and remains as our largest meteorite.
+
+"Thus not only was our world spared from destruction, but that which
+threatened to be such an evil proved to be a great acquisition. For the
+comet, as it is still called, has revealed to us the most astonishing
+secrets. For a long time the mass of matter lay untouched, superstition
+and the lack of scientific curiosity tending to preserve it as it fell.
+But at length the spirit of inquiry proved to be too strong, and
+within a comparatively recent period the comet has been broken into and
+explored with wonderful results.
+
+"You must know, to begin with, that this greatest natural curiosity on
+the face of our planet is no common meteorite such as you are acquainted
+with. Indeed, if it had struck the earth as fair a blow as it did us I
+think the shock would have been felt much more severely by your little
+race, for it is hundreds of miles in diameter and the velocity with
+which it was traveling was simply incredible. Fortunately it fell upon
+an uninhabited plain, partly burying itself in the ground, and for
+several years the mass was so hot that it could not be approached. This
+helped to make it an object of awe and almost of veneration, so that
+many centuries of time passed before any critical examination was made
+of it. Even then nothing was accomplished toward revealing its marvelous
+secrets. The surface was found to be hard and metallic, with the
+familiar burned appearance caused by contact with the atmosphere,
+and the substance, in its chemical composition, resembled, with some
+variation, other meteoric specimens. Some attempt was made to penetrate
+into the interior of the mass, but all that was discovered led to the
+belief that it was of similar structure throughout.
+
+"This was the extent of the knowledge obtained of the interesting object
+until the beginning of the present age of advanced civilization.
+
+"When we had learned by our successful experiments that some of our
+sister planets were inhabited, and when our powerful telescopes had
+revealed what we believed to be planets of other systems, there was
+intense interest in the search for any evidence of life in these more
+distant worlds. They were so very far away that we doubted if we could
+ever know enough about them to tell whether they were habitable, and it
+seemed as if we could only judge of their condition from analogy
+with our own solar system. These views prevailed until the brilliant
+suggestion was made, and it is not known by whom it was first advanced,
+that perhaps we had, right here with us, the means of discovering what
+we so much desired to know. It had always been assumed that our comet
+was of uniform structure, but why let such a matter rest in uncertainty?
+It is one of the strange things in our history that this question was
+not seriously asked long before that time. But now that the idea was
+broached the work was entered into with great earnestness.
+
+"This was the position: Here was this huge mass that had come to us from
+some unknown region of the sky, almost certainly from beyond the bounds
+of our solar system, and we were to pry into it to see if it had any
+story to tell us of its former condition. The advancement of science had
+given us the means of easily penetrating into the interior of the comet,
+and it was determined to make thorough work of it. And this feeling was
+found to be necessary, for the enterprise proved to be discouraging
+for many years. An immense tunnel was made through the entire mass,
+and nothing was found to repay the trouble. Many were now in favor
+of abandoning the work, but after a period of rest another trial was
+decided upon and a second tunnel begun. Never did perseverance have a
+more perfect reward; for, before the new excavations had proceeded far,
+discoveries were made which suddenly changed our comet, in regard to
+which most people had lost all interest, into the most wonderful object
+in all the world.
+
+"In short, we now know that we have here a fragment of a former planet.
+How the planet was dismembered and how this piece happened to come
+flying to us, we do not know. But could it have come about more
+fortunately for us if it had all been designed by an over-ruling power?
+When we had learned all that our expanding but limited intelligence
+could teach us of the other parts of the universe, and when our minds
+were ripe for more knowledge, we found this magnificent object lesson,
+which had been waiting for us all these years. Beneath the uninviting
+surface of that familiar comet were revealed wonders which, if they
+had been discovered when the mass first came, would not have been
+half-appreciated, but which now told us, in answer to our eager
+inquiries, more than we ever thought to know about the far-distant works
+of our God."
+
+The doctor and I were amazed beyond measure by this recital, and were
+quite ready to admit that a superior intelligence had directed the
+wonderful event. But we were exceedingly anxious to know some of the
+details of the discovery, and when the doctor had expressed this wish
+Thorwald proceeded:
+
+"I could talk on this subject," he said, "till night-fall if you desire,
+but it will be better for you to restrain your curiosity till you can be
+taken in person to the scene. Let me tell you in general terms what you
+will find. The comet fell, as I have said, in an uninhabited plain, but
+it is now at the door of the largest city on our planet, which has been
+built there since the discoveries were made. The excavations have left
+an immense opening, where galleries and chambers of great extent have
+been dug out. These have been finished off with untold labor, and new
+ones are being constantly added. Here is our greatest museum, beside
+which all other collections of natural objects are as nothing, for all
+that has been found in the comet remains there; nothing has been
+allowed to be taken away. You will appreciate something of the wonderful
+character of these curiosities when I tell you that they give evidence
+of a world many times larger than Jupiter and of an intellectual and
+spiritual development as much beyond ours as ours is in advance of that
+of the earth.
+
+"We have exhumed buried cities in our own planet more than once, where
+volcano or other convulsion had overwhelmed them, and found the relics
+of past civilization; but here, in our comet, we look not upon the past
+but upon the future, as it were, and see what has been done in a world
+much older than our own. The belief that the comet did not originate in
+our solar system has been verified, for we find that the globe of which
+it was once a part revolved around an immense sun which had a retinue of
+twenty-seven planets of various sizes. Whether this great sun is one
+of the stars of our firmament we can only conjecture; perhaps in some
+future state of existence we shall know.
+
+"You have wondered if the earth will ever advance to the condition in
+which you find us, and we are asking the same question in regard to
+ourselves and the still higher development exhibited in our comet. My
+opinion is that these very discoveries are to be in a measure the means
+of our advancement. We are only beginning to make out their wonderful
+character. As we learn more of them we hope to find out more closely
+how that people lived, and to be directed in our upward path by their
+example. In the pursuit of this knowledge we are hampered by our
+ignorance of their language. All that we know of them and their planet
+has been gained by their very suggestive pictures and illustrations, for
+of their written records, which exist in great abundance, we can as yet
+make nothing. In our former studies of the different languages of our
+own world we found something common to them all, upon which we could
+work; but in this case an entirely new principle seems to obtain, and
+the problem so far baffles all our skill. So you see here is something
+for us to do, and when we have accomplished the task, as I have no doubt
+that result will come, we shall then be able to study in detail that
+remarkable civilization the knowledge of which is wisely kept from us
+until we can understand and appreciate it.
+
+"You come here from your young planet, representing a race that is still
+struggling with the lower forms of materialism, and find us so much in
+advance of your condition that perhaps you imagine we are perfect. We
+ourselves know we are far from that state, especially since we have
+been able to compare our development with the higher civilization of the
+people who once lived on our comet."
+
+Thorwald paused a moment, and the doctor, who showed by every indication
+that he was engrossed in the subject, took occasion to remark:
+
+"We certainly have harbored the thought you attribute to us, Thorwald.
+After all you have told us of your freedom from trouble, of the
+dethronement of selfishness and the reign of love, of your great
+achievements in every art, and of your ideal life in general, we shall
+always look upon you as a perfect race. How is it possible to rise to a
+higher plain? Can you express in terms suited to our comprehension your
+idea of that advanced state of existence of which you find indications
+on your comet? What is the character of that development?"
+
+"You will perhaps understand something of its character," answered
+Thorwald, "if I say it is almost entirely spiritual. While we have made
+some progress in that direction, our superiority over the earth-dwellers
+is chiefly in physical and intellectual attainments. In the realm of the
+spirit we have yet far to go, and as long as we can see imperfections in
+our nature we feel that there is something ahead for us to strive after.
+With that example before us of a much more exalted life, we shall not
+be satisfied until we have learned its secrets and attained to its
+perfections. In this upward march we shall be sustained and helped by
+the same divine Power that has thus far led us."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIX.
+
+I DISCOVER THE SINGER.
+
+
+We were much impressed by Thorwald's earnest words and manner, and
+we began to realize that the civilization of Mars was above our most
+exalted conception. I had been so carried away by the topics which I
+had feared were going to be uninteresting that I had lost some of the
+restlessness of the morning, but as our sitting broke up and I noticed
+it was drawing near noon my anxious thoughts returned. Finding Fronda
+and learning from her from what direction Avis might be expected to
+come, I determined to go out alone and see if I could meet her. I
+managed to get away without the fact being noticed, as far as I could
+discover, and started down the walk at a brisk pace. The houses were
+a good distance apart and were all attractive enough to draw out both
+wonder and admiration, had my mind been in a condition to appreciate
+their beauty. Occasionally an electric carriage would pass me, but the
+first pedestrian I met was a woman of noble bearing and about the age of
+Fronda, I should judge. After all I had heard of the physical and mental
+perfections of the inhabitants of Mars, I did not expect to see any but
+good-looking people. In this we were never disappointed, though still
+there were gradations of beauty even there. This woman whom I had met
+must have been at one time strikingly handsome, and if time had robbed
+her of any of that quality it had made it up by giving her a rare
+sweetness that fully atoned for the loss. As I was about to pass her she
+looked at me with such a pleasant and agreeable curiosity that I stopped
+and said:
+
+"Pardon me, but may I ask you a question?"
+
+"Certainly," she answered in a charming voice, "and I shall be very
+glad to help you in any way. I recognize that you are one of the
+earth-dwellers, and I have met your companion the doctor."
+
+"Is it possible? I wonder he has not told me of such good fortune. But
+this is the question I wanted to ask you. As you came along this path
+did you see a young girl named Avis?"
+
+"I did not, I am sure. I have met no young girl, and I could not see any
+one by the name of Avis."
+
+"Why so?"
+
+"Because there is no such girl."
+
+"Excuse me," I said, "but probably you do not know her. I have just come
+from one of the houses yonder, where she is expected about noon, and I
+came out to try and meet her."
+
+"Do you know her?" she asked.
+
+"No--or, rather, I hope so; I cannot tell till I see her."
+
+"That's curious. Have you ever met her?"
+
+"I am not sure. I hope I have. I cannot explain it to you just now,
+but the minute I put my eyes on Avis I shall be able to answer all your
+questions."
+
+"But her name cannot be Avis."
+
+"Oh, yes, it is. It is quite plain that you do not know her."
+
+"I beg your pardon," she returned, "there is but one person in all this
+country by the name of Avis."
+
+"Then that is the very person I am trying to find."
+
+"You have found her."
+
+"Where?"
+
+"Right here. I am she."
+
+I laughed outright and said:
+
+"Oh, no, you must be mistaken. I do not mean to be disrespectful, but
+the Avis I am looking for is young, younger than I am--evidently another
+person of your name, whom you have never met."
+
+"How do you know she is young?"
+
+"Why," I answered, "of course she is young."
+
+And then, when I thought of it a moment, I remembered that no one had
+told me her age, but I added:
+
+"I know she is young, because I have heard her sing."
+
+It was now my companion's turn to laugh, but although her merriment
+was at my expense its expression, like all her actions, was exceedingly
+pleasing. The thought occurred to me that even the most cultured of the
+earth's inhabitants have still much to learn in the realm of manners.
+
+"Oh, do you imagine," she asked, in the midst of her laughing, "that you
+can tell one's age in Mars from the quality of the voice? Does this Avis
+of yours sing well?"
+
+"Excellently well. Until I heard her I had supposed there was but one
+singer anywhere, in earth, sun, moon, or star, possessed of such a sweet
+and thrilling voice."
+
+"And where, if I may ask, did you find that one?"
+
+"Oh, the doctor and I discovered her in our travels. I will tell you all
+about her when I have more time. Now will you excuse me while I continue
+my search for Avis?"
+
+"You have forgotten," she answered, "what I told you. I am Avis."
+
+"Not my Avis, the singer."
+
+"Yes, the very same, and I can prove it."
+
+"How?"
+
+She answered by turning half around, lifting her head, and sending out
+on the air one full, rich note. It poorly describes my emotions to say
+I was astonished. If I had been blind and dependent only on what I heard
+at that moment, I should have thrown myself at her feet and called
+her Mona. It brought back to me not only every expression of Mona's
+marvelous voice, but also every feature and every grace which had
+formerly so bewitched me. If I had loved her passionately when we were
+together in the body, it would be difficult to characterize my feelings
+now that she was present only in memory. These sensations swept over me
+rapidly, but before I could utter a word my companion spoke again:
+
+"I see you hesitate. Let me complete my proof by saying that you are
+visiting, with Zenith and Thorwald, at the house of Fronda, and have
+heard me sing two nights in succession."
+
+"Then," I exclaimed, with sorrow and despair in my voice, "I have indeed
+found Avis, but, alas! I have once more lost Mona."
+
+"How so?"
+
+"Why, don't you see? I expected to find Mona and lose Avis. I thought
+Avis was Mona, a thought born partly of hope, I suppose, but it did not
+seem possible that there could be two such singers. So you are really
+Avis. I must try and remember that, and not express any more sorrow
+at not losing you. If Avis could not be Mona it is certainly a great
+consolation to find her in you. Let me return with you to Proctor's; and
+now, will you not sing for me as we walk?"
+
+"Are you so fond of singing, or is it because you like to be reminded of
+Mona?"
+
+"Both, I assure you."
+
+"Does my voice sound like hers in conversation?"
+
+"Oh, no, Mona never talked as we do. Everything she wanted to say she
+sang."
+
+"You surprise me," said Avis. "I should think she would soon become
+tiresome to her friends."
+
+"If you had ever known her you would not make such a remark as that."
+
+"I beg your pardon," she quickly returned. "I presume you are right. And
+now, to atone for wounding your feelings, I will sing till we come in
+sight of Fronda's house."
+
+"I thank you very much, and I promise you I shall walk as slowly as
+possible."
+
+She sang some sweet little things for me as we sauntered along,
+attracting me powerfully and making it easier for me to conceal my great
+disappointment.
+
+When we reached the house Avis explained, in a few pleasant words, the
+fact of our acquaintance, and as soon as family and guests were
+all gathered for the noonday lunch I told them about my peculiar
+forgetfulness of what had occurred on the moon and then about the manner
+in which the events had been brought back to my mind. They showed more
+interest in the latter part of my relation than in the former, and when
+I was through the doctor said:
+
+"I must confess to you now, my friend, that I told these good people
+something about your aberration. It was entirely for your own sake, for
+I wanted their help in bringing about your recovery, and now that we
+have been successful I hope you will forgive me."
+
+"You know there is nothing to forgive," I replied. Then Zenith said:
+
+"The doctor implies that we have all helped in the happy result, but I
+can tell you that it is entirely due to himself and Avis. He happened
+to meet Avis and heard her sing. He was struck at once with the
+likeness between her voice and Mona's, about whom he had told us, and he
+conceived the idea that if you could hear it when you were alone, say
+in the night, and not know who the singer was, it might be the means
+of bringing the forgotten circumstances all back to you. From what the
+doctor has told us we have, every one of us, fallen in love with Mona,
+and I presume when we get your estimate we shall think none the less of
+her. If I am correctly informed you found her especially attractive."
+
+"In answer to your kind expressions of interest in me, Zenith, I will
+say that, in spite of my appreciation of what you are all doing for us,
+I shall never see another really happy moment until Mona is found."
+
+"Then," quickly responded Thorwald, "we must redouble our efforts to
+find her. I must tell you that ever since the doctor first acquainted us
+with the loss of Mona we have had parties searching for her in all that
+part of the ocean."
+
+"How thoughtful you are," I exclaimed. "But why do we not hurry home?
+Perhaps she is found."
+
+"I regret to add to your sorrow," said Thorwald, "but we should learn of
+it here as quickly as at home, for I am in constant communication with
+my friends who are conducting the search. Still, we have been staying
+here for you and can now bring our visit to a close at any time."
+
+So after lunch we bade adieu to Proctor and his household, and started
+for home, the same way we went out--that is, by going west again. As we
+made a leisurely journey and enjoyed a good night's rest on the way, it
+was just before noon when we arrived at Thorwald's house. Here we
+found Antonia, who had been advised of our coming by telephone, and had
+prepared a nice lunch for us. Just as we were all about to sit down
+to enjoy it, a young man entered unannounced and, without formal
+invitation, joined us in gathering about the board. This was not an
+instance of undue familiarity, as we soon discovered, but illustrated
+again the free and hearty hospitality of these generous people.
+
+"Foedric," said Thorwald, as soon as the guest had been greeted, "let
+me present you to these two friends from the earth. You doubtless have
+heard of their arrival."
+
+"I have," answered Foedric, "and I am exceedingly pleased to make their
+acquaintance." And then turning to the doctor, he said:
+
+"We shall not let Thorwald and Zenith have the monopoly of your company
+while you are visiting our world. Many others are anxious to see you and
+to learn something of our sister planet."
+
+"There is not much to learn," said the doctor, "from such an unripe
+race as we represent, and I must say your people have not exhibited any
+unpleasant curiosity."
+
+"I am glad you have not been annoyed. We understand too well what is due
+you as our guests to crowd our attentions upon you, but you will allow
+me to say that already the main facts in your case are known all
+over our world, and our scientists are discussing the earth and its
+inhabitants in the great light of the knowledge which you have brought."
+
+Foedric spoke with ease, and yet with entire absence of youthful
+pedantry. The doctor and I could but admire his fine face and robust
+form, as well as his manly courtesy and friendliness. And before the
+meal was over we discovered that one other person at the table admired
+him, probably for the same and many other qualities. It seemed to us
+accidental when Foedric had dropped in upon us and chosen a seat next to
+Antonia, but it soon became evident that we had not witnessed even that
+kind of an accident.
+
+What was exhibited to us there, among that highly developed people, was
+a genuine, old-fashioned, new-fashioned love affair. We rejoiced in our
+hearts to find that their advanced civilization left abundant room for
+the development of the tender passion, and that it also seemed not to
+discourage a plain and sensible exhibition of it. For these two young
+people made no effort to conceal their happiness. Not the company of
+their chosen friends nor the presence of strangers from a distant world
+caused them the slightest embarrassment, as they spoke from time to
+time their words of love, simple words to other listeners, but full of
+meaning to themselves.
+
+"Say that again, Antonia," spoke Foedric.
+
+"Why do you ask me to repeat it so often? I have said it so many times
+and with so little variety of expression that I fear the monotony will
+tire you. You can tell how strong my devotion is by my every look and
+action."
+
+"Very well," Foedric responded, "then I, too, will be silent."
+
+"Oh, no; I retract what I have said if it is to have that effect. It is
+only my own expressions that seem tiresome. I could not be happy without
+your voice in my ears, though you repeat from morn till eve the old,
+familiar words."
+
+"Then you must believe the same of me," said Foedric.
+
+As we all happened to be listening to these two at that moment, Foedric
+looked up to our host and said:
+
+"Thorwald, do you think Antonia and I had better try to reform the
+customs of the world, and do away with all verbal expression of our
+attachment, on the ground that it is unnecessary and only a waste of
+breath?"
+
+"If some cruel master should force such a prohibition upon you,
+Foedric, what would be your feeling? The heart craves such expression as
+naturally as the body craves food. Suppose a couple were to start off by
+saying once for all that they loved each other, and then agree to live
+the rest of their lives on that one expression. They would argue that
+all such sentiment was folly, and interfered with the serious business
+of life, and so, denying a healthy appetite, their hearts would shrivel
+up and the fair blossom of their love would soon wither and die."
+
+As we smiled at Thorwald's words, Zenith showed her interest by saying:
+
+"The subject reminds me of that epoch in our history of which we read,
+when all the world went without eating for a time."
+
+"Without eating?" asked the doctor.
+
+"Yes, I will tell you about it. Once science reached that condition
+where it thought it could make the world over and improve on the first
+creation in a great many ways. Men began to say that the time spent in
+cooking and eating was all wasted, that time, being the most valuable
+thing they had, should be employed in some more useful way than in
+indulging a mere sensual passion. The appetite came to be looked upon
+as something too gross for intelligent beings and suited only to the
+natures of the lower animals. Under the influence of this growing
+sentiment, science soon discovered a process for condensing our food to
+wonderfully small proportions. All extraneous matter was rejected, and
+only those particles retained which were absolutely essential to our
+nourishment, chemical knowledge having reached a high state. The result
+was that it finally became possible to subsist a whole day on a single
+swallow. One pill, taken every morning, contained all the food required,
+both for the growth and maintenance of the body Science prided itself on
+such an advanced step, and men looked forward and wondered what further
+marvels the future would bring forth."
+
+The doctor did not try to hide his interest in this recital, and as soon
+as Zenith paused he said:
+
+"My friend and myself are most truly thankful that that custom did not
+continue to the present day. But did it remain long?"
+
+"No," replied Zenith, "of course it could not. At first people thought
+it an immense gain. Just think of the time and expense it saved in
+every household, doing away with dining-room and kitchen, with all their
+furniture and utensils, and reducing the cares of housekeeping much
+more than half. But it proved to be a costly experiment, and nature soon
+exerted itself, as it always will in time. Science, not satisfied with
+what had been accomplished, kept striving after what it called more
+perfect results, and just as it had made a pellet of such powerful
+ingredients that it would sustain life for a week, men began to die
+rapidly of the treatment. This called a halt, but the damage done was
+serious enough to give the world a good fright, turn it back to the old
+fashioned habit of eating, and confirm us forever in that indulgence.
+Since then we have believed that such appetites are given us for a wise
+purpose and that, rightly enjoyed, they are a means of growth toward a
+more and more perfect state."
+
+"This lesson from our experience then," said Foedric to Antonia, "is to
+teach us the plain duty of lavishing upon each other, without measure,
+our affectionate words, because it is a legitimate, healthy longing
+of our nature, and I sincerely hope you will take it to heart. Do not
+undertake to make me exist a week or a day on a single morsel."
+
+As for myself, I was not so much engrossed in this talk as to forget my
+own condition, which seemed all the more forlorn by contrast with the
+unalloyed happiness of these joyous beings. I wondered if such affairs
+always went smoothly in Mars. Was early love always mutual, or did one
+sometimes refuse to be wooed and prefer another? And did it ever happen
+that the loved one was lost, as Mona was lost to me, perhaps never to be
+found?
+
+But in the company of such happy people I felt that my anxious spirit
+was out of place, and I tried to cast off my forebodings and to seize
+from the image of Mona present in my memory a portion of her own cheer
+and hope. That I was not entirely successful my looks must have
+shown, for as we rose from the table Zenith said to me, with a look of
+sympathy:
+
+"You are sad--I think I will send for Avis to come over and cheer you
+up."
+
+This was spoken as if Avis were just across the street and could run
+over in a minute. But as I did not discourage the idea the invitation
+was sent, and before night Avis was with us, filling the house with
+melody. She delighted in her song and was as youthful in spirit as a
+girl, and this was a quality always noticeable in the Martians. And,
+moreover, under the influence of Avis the members of our own household
+found their voices, so that the doctor and I learned that they need not
+send to the antipodes for singers. Zenith and Foedric were exceptionally
+good, but no one except Avis possessed the peculiar charm of Mona.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XX.
+
+A WONDERFUL REVELATION.
+
+
+There was no way by which we could learn so much and so rapidly about
+that wonderful world as by conversation, so at every opportunity we
+tried to get Thorwald and the others to give us portions of their
+history. From time to time my companion and myself compared our
+impressions, and expressed to each other the pleasure we anticipated in
+relating all the amazing things we had seen and heard to our friends on
+the earth. The exceedingly doubtful problem of our ever getting back to
+our home again did not trouble us then.
+
+We said to each other that the most startling things had probably all
+been told us, and that we could not be much surprised by anything that
+they could tell us further. And yet there was that to follow which, if
+we could fully enter into its significance, would make us forget much of
+what we had already heard, or at least care but little to recall it. In
+truth, the new revelation which we were about to receive from the lips
+of our friend was of so much value, and so different in character from
+the other subjects Thorwald had spoken of, that we afterward came to
+look upon all that had gone before as an introduction, perhaps intended
+to prepare our minds for a much grander truth. Yet it was brought out
+by a question from me, a question of whose importance I had little
+conception.
+
+When Thorwald was ready to talk one day I said to him:
+
+"We have heard you several times speak reverently of a God. Will you
+tell us definitely what your religion is?"
+
+"With pleasure," he replied. "We worship one God, the maker of all
+things, and his Son, Jesus Christ, who gave his life for us."
+
+"Why, how did you hear of his death, Thorwald?"
+
+"I might better ask how you heard of it. Many centuries ago God saw fit
+to reveal himself more fully to us by sending his only Son, who came in
+the likeness of our flesh, dwelt among us, and by cruel hands was slain.
+He gave himself a sacrifice for our sins, but rose again from the dead,
+as we, too, shall rise. He ascended into heaven and through him we now
+have access unto the Father."
+
+"But Jesus died on the earth too, and you but describe his relations to
+us."
+
+"I rejoice greatly to hear it," answered Thorwald, "and I know now why
+you were sent to us. This information is of inestimable value to us, for
+we have spent much thought on the question of the moral government of
+other worlds that we knew were inhabited. In God's dealings with Mars,
+lifting up our souls and preparing us for his service and glory, we
+believed he was working in the very best way. There can be but one best
+way; and so, considering that there might be many other races of sinful
+beings needing a saviour, we wondered how God's mercy was revealed
+to them. This bright news which you bring is worth more to us at the
+present time than all other possible information about the earth or its
+people. The fact that the earth is inhabited was no great surprise to
+us after what we had learned of our larger neighbors, but this--this is
+news indeed.
+
+"As an example of what our interest in this subject has prompted us
+to do, let me tell you that in our extremely laborious and limited
+intercourse with Saturn and Uranus we made the form of the cross. We all
+feared our work might be in vain and many doubted seriously the wisdom
+of proceeding with the undertaking, which occupied many years, when it
+was so probable that those distant people would not know what the sign
+meant. But we labored on, and before the form was fairly finished it was
+with the keenest pleasure that we saw the answer growing on the rounded
+surface of each planet. They worked, they stopped, and then we realized
+that both had replied to our question with the short straight line
+which, in our communications, has come to be the affirmative sign, or
+the 'yes' in the new universal language.
+
+"We interpreted this answer to mean that the great redemption signified
+by the cross was known to the highly intelligent races that peopled
+these rolling worlds. But how did that knowledge reach them? To that
+question we never hoped to get an answer. Did a troop of bright angels
+issue forth from the gates of heaven and wing their way from one planet
+to another, as each race was ready for the joyful tidings, and make
+this glad announcement?--'Peace from heaven to this world! On Mars,
+your sister planet, a child was born, the Son of God, the Saviour of the
+universe. He lived a perfect life for your example, he died on the cross
+for your salvation. Believe in him, love him, follow him!'
+
+"We thought much on this point, wondering reverently how God had
+wrought. And now you have come to explain all the mystery, to answer all
+questions. One simple sentence tells it all: 'Jesus died on the earth
+too.'
+
+"I see it perfectly now. Christ, the Lord of heaven, came to us in the
+fullness of time, took upon him the likeness of our flesh, lived nobly,
+was slain, rose again from the dead, and ascended into heaven to prepare
+blessed mansions for all his followers. So, too, in the fullness of your
+time, when the earth was ready for the great sacrifice, Christ offered
+himself again. He appeared in human form and lived among men as he had
+lived with us, pointing your race, also, to a home of peace and joy
+above.
+
+"Better than any announcement of angels of what had taken place in
+some other world was his actual life among you, going about doing good,
+shedding around him the spirit of love and self-denial, showing you the
+way to live, the way to die.
+
+"Among the vast multitude of peopled worlds which God has made, there
+is doubtless great variety in nature and condition. But if there are any
+others whose inhabitants were ever in our lost condition, let us hope
+and believe that the same great act of mercy has been shown to them
+which has so greatly blessed the planets of our own system."
+
+Here, at Thorwald's request, I told him briefly of the Saviour's advent
+on the earth in the fulfillment of prophecy, of his beautiful life, and
+then of the marvelous improvement his religion had brought about as it
+spread in the world.
+
+Thorwald appeared intensely interested, and exclaimed: "Oh! how this
+truth you have told us does make brothers of us all, and how it will
+enhance the pleasure of our intercourse. Now in our future conversation
+we shall be in full sympathy, knowing that, though born so far apart, we
+are all followers of the same dear Master.
+
+"Zenith," said Thorwald to his wife, who was sitting with us, "this is
+a happy day for us all. These earth-dwellers, these men who have come to
+visit our world, are not strangers; they are Christians. Think of it."
+
+At this juncture I could not help studying the doctor's face, for I knew
+this was the first time he had ever been called a Christian. In spite
+of the seriousness of the situation, I was obliged to indulge in a quiet
+smile to think he had to go all the way to Mars to be recognized in his
+true character. For although he would not acknowledge the divine source
+of it, he had imbibed a great deal of the real Christian spirit. But
+he had spent his life in seeking for scientific knowledge in various
+directions and was content, as he often said, to leave the unknowable
+without investigation. I wondered whether, in these novel circumstances,
+he would care to give voice to his agnosticism. But the doctor was
+honest or he was nothing, and he could not endure that Thorwald should
+rest under the false impression implied by his closing words. So with
+some effort, as I could see, he said:
+
+"I dislike exceedingly, Thorwald, to destroy the least particle of the
+effect of your eloquence, but I feel compelled to say that, as for me, I
+have never called myself a Christian."
+
+"Not a Christian!" said Thorwald. "I do not understand you. But perhaps
+you use some other name. You surely do not mean that you turn aside from
+that divine being who came to the earth to save you."
+
+"I do not know that such a being did come to the earth."
+
+"What!" exclaimed Thorwald, "is there any doubt of it? Has your
+companion here been deceived? Must we give up our new-found joy?"
+
+"Oh, no, no," answered the doctor hurriedly. "I suppose it is true that
+a good man named Jesus once lived on the earth and taught, and died a
+shameful death."
+
+"A good man! Nothing more?"
+
+"I don't know," answered the doctor.
+
+"What do you believe?"
+
+"I do not allow myself to have any belief."
+
+"Well, now, Doctor, you are a thinking being. Considering all you know
+about Jesus--his noble life, his character and the character of his
+teachings, and then the claims he made for himself--what do you think of
+him?"
+
+"Before such mysteries, and in answer to all questions relating to what
+is called the supernatural, I always say, 'I do not know.'"
+
+"Well," continued Thorwald, "do you think the life and death of a good
+man could set in motion forces that would so transform the world and
+give it such a start toward a higher and more perfect state?"
+
+To this the doctor replied:
+
+"In the early part of this conversation my companion told you he thought
+the condition of man on the earth was improving, or, in other words,
+that the earth was growing better. In that opinion he has many
+supporters, but it is only fair that you should know that some of us
+hold just the opposite view. We see so much evil in the world, evil that
+is unrebuked and growing stronger from year to year, so many forces at
+work dragging men downward and such fearful clouds ahead, that it seems
+to us that the good is overmatched, and that there is but little hope of
+a happy future for our race. I will also say, in order to be perfectly
+frank, that even if we should admit that our civilization was advancing,
+we should not attribute it to the influence of the Jewish reformer."
+
+"Then," said Thorwald, "if I understand your feeling, you have no love,
+no thanks even, for him who gave his life for you, and no sense of
+gratitude for the loving Father who sent his Son to die for your sins."
+
+"I think you are hardly just," replied the doctor, "for I am not
+conscious of living a life of ingratitude. Your words imply a great deal
+that I know nothing about. I am not aware that anyone was ever sent from
+heaven to die for me, and I do not even know there is a heaven and a
+God."
+
+"Did it ever occur to you, Doctor, that your attitude does not alter the
+facts? In spite of your unbelief, or indifference if you will, there is
+a God whose steps are heard throughout the universe, whose hand upholds
+all worlds, and who looks with loving eyes upon all created beings, even
+upon those who have the intelligence but not the heart to acknowledge
+him. Oh! it is amazing to me that there can be one such being in all
+God's dominions."
+
+"Why, are there not any in Mars?"
+
+"In Mars? Not one. Let me tell you, Doctor, that here you will be
+unique, if that is any consolation to you. When this talk is made public
+and the facts in your case are spread abroad everybody will want a share
+in bringing you to your right mind, and we shall see what the result
+will be with a world full of missionaries to one heathen."
+
+"Please do not use that word, Thorwald. I was born in Boston--you must
+know where Boston is--of good old Puritan stock, and I am not a heathen
+because I don't know about some matters that I cannot, in the nature
+of things, know anything about. You found a while ago that I wanted
+imagination, and you now see that I am deficient also in faith, which it
+seems to me is a product of the imagination."
+
+"No," broke in Thorwald, "faith might rather be called the product of
+reason and of the conscience, enlightened by every revelation which
+God has made. But with us faith is an instinct. We believe in God as
+naturally as we trust our parents. Our souls reach after divine things
+to satisfy their longings, just as our bodies seek the food that shall
+nourish them. In all this world there is not a heart devoid of love to
+God, not one that does not own a personal and joyful allegiance to the
+divine Saviour.
+
+"But I forget that the earth is still young, and that, very long ago,
+when Mars was in your condition, representatives of our race actually
+walked the surface of this planet with no more thought of its Maker than
+you exhibit. Forgive me if, in this talk, I have seemed too positive of
+things which you claim cannot be known. But here there is no uncertainty
+in these matters. There is now no open question in regard to the
+existence of God and his loving care of us."
+
+"But, Thorwald," asked the doctor, "how can you be sure? Help me to
+see these things as you do. In the matter of the habitability of other
+worlds you brought me over to your opinion by producing evidence which
+took away all uncertainty and left me no room to doubt. Is it so in this
+case?"
+
+"No, my friend," answered Thorwald, "it is not so. The evidence in this
+case is of an entirely different character. Your companion has told me
+how God has dealt with men, by what means he has made known his will,
+and how he has revealed his love and mercy to your race. So has it been
+with us, only here we have had more time to acquaint ourselves with
+these blessed truths. If you ask for proofs, I can only say they are the
+same which have no doubt been reiterated many times in your ears. The
+voices that come to us from the invisible world are not tuned to the
+coarse fiber of our physical nature, but are addressed to our spirits,
+our very selves, and he who does not heed those voices would not be
+persuaded even though one should rise from the dead.
+
+"Let me induce you, Doctor, to cultivate the spiritual part of your
+being, evidently undeveloped as yet, for only then will you begin to
+realize that the evidence in support of these divine truths is more
+convincing than any possible proofs that could be presented to our
+outward senses."
+
+"Under your instruction," said the doctor, "and with the example of a
+world full of spirits of your faith and practice, I will do my best
+to follow your advice, and try to catch some faint strain from those
+heavenly voices. If I cannot believe, it shall no longer be because I
+will not. But now, Thorwald, you have given too much time to me and have
+been drawn away from your purpose of enlightening us in regard to your
+wonderful planet."
+
+"Yes, Thorwald," said I, "we must hear more of your interesting history,
+and I think an account of what the religion of Jesus has done for Mars
+will help to win the doctor to right views."
+
+"I shall take much pleasure in doing the best I can whenever you are
+good enough to listen," Thorwald answered. "But we shall now be still
+more anxious to hear further about the earth."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXI.
+
+A LITTLE ANCIENT HISTORY.
+
+
+In the foregoing personal conversation, Thorwald had been uncompromising
+in look and tone, as well as in word, toward the errors of my friend,
+but for the doctor himself I was sure he had the kindest feelings. The
+discovery of the dearth of spiritual perception in the doctor was
+a greater surprise to Thorwald, I really believe, than our first
+appearance was. And it was a surprise well calculated to awaken in his
+finer nature a feeling as near akin to indignation as the Martian mind
+of that era was capable of experiencing. So we had here the opportunity
+of observing how a member of this highly civilized race, one endowed
+with such lofty attributes, would act under severe provocation. The
+exhibition was instructive. Thorwald certainly resented with all the
+force of his pure and upright nature all that was evil in the doctor's
+attitude. Such doubt was entirely new to his experience. He had no place
+for it; and he could do no less than cry out against it as he had done.
+But his manner softened as soon as the doctor's mood changed, and it
+was apparent that he was ready to encourage in every possible way
+the slightest indication of a change. And from this time Thorwald was
+particularly tender toward the doctor, evidently desiring to show him
+that, unbending to everything like disloyalty to God, he recognized his
+sincerity when he declared that he would no longer set his will against
+the reception of the truth.
+
+In this mind Thorwald said:
+
+"I perceive, Doctor, that your sturdy self-respect and the fear that
+you might appear in a false position have compelled you to be unfair to
+yourself. You believe more than you confess, else why did you repel with
+such feeling my insinuation that you were a heathen? But if you have
+ever determined to go through life believing in only what your hand can
+touch and your eye can see, let me induce you to close your eyes and
+fold your hands for a while, and with expectancy wait for the coming
+into your heart of that divine influence which, encouraged however
+feebly, shall presently show to your inner and better vision, in all his
+beauty, him whom no eye hath seen nor can see.
+
+"I do not exclude you therefore, Doctor, when I say again that we have
+all been drawn into close sympathy by the knowledge your companion has
+imparted, and in what I have to say further I am sure you will both see
+a great deal to cause you to realize that your race and ours have the
+same dear Father, who is guiding us to a common destiny.
+
+"At your request I am to give you from time to time, as we have
+opportunity, an account of the successive steps of our development, and
+I would like to say at the start that there will be one great difference
+between what I am to tell you and the rambling talk with which we began
+our happy acquaintance. Then I gave you a few facts to show our present
+condition, without intimating that there was any higher force at work
+than a natural desire in us to make the most of ourselves, and treat our
+neighbors well. Now, since I have discovered that you can enter into my
+feelings to a greater or less extent, I shall not hesitate to refer to
+its true source all that has helped us attain to our present condition,
+and all that is urging us on to a still higher state."
+
+"We shall he very glad to know what you consider the spring of all the
+vast improvement in your race," I remarked.
+
+"I did not use the word 'consider,'" replied Thorwald. "That would imply
+doubt where there is none. It is established beyond controversy that
+both our material and spiritual development have come only through
+the personal love and care of God for the creatures whom he has made,
+exhibited through all our history, but especially through the sending of
+his Son."
+
+"Some on the earth recognize the same truth in reference to our race,"
+I said. "But, in general, people do not think much of such things, or if
+they think they do not say much. In fact, religious subjects are not as
+a rule popular in conversation."
+
+"Why, what reason can there be for that?" Thorwald inquired with eager
+interest.
+
+"Oh, there is too much indifference in the matter," I replied. "I
+suppose most men do not think their relations to their Maker important
+enough to give them any concern. And even the best among us shrink from
+urging their opinions on others, partly because they know they are
+not perfect examples themselves, and also from the feeling that their
+friends are intelligent beings and ought to know, as well as they do,
+what is best for them."
+
+"Oh, then, my dear Doctor," said Thorwald, "I perceive that I have
+committed a breach of etiquette in forcing this subject upon you, and
+in asking you to put yourself in the way of receiving spiritual
+impressions."
+
+"In the circumstances, I think you are excusable," replied the doctor;
+"and, besides, I believe I introduced the topic."
+
+"If you stay long with us," resumed Thorwald, "you will become
+accustomed to religious conversation, for here there is entire freedom
+in such matters. Our spiritual experiences and the great possibilities
+of the future state are exceedingly pleasant things to talk about, we
+think, and we feel no more sensitiveness in doing it than in conversing
+on the ordinary affairs of life. Being relieved of so many of the cares
+pertaining to your existence, our minds are the more prepared to occupy
+themselves with these high themes, and what is more natural than that
+we should often like to speak to each other about them? As these things
+become more real to you and the necessity of spending so much time in
+caring for the body diminishes, you will gradually lose your present
+feeling. You will also find that, in making these subjects familiar,
+they need not lose dignity and you need not lose reverence."
+
+"Thorwald," asked the doctor, "could you not give us a brief sketch of
+your career, so that we may compare it with that of our race?"
+
+"I will do the best I can," answered Thorwald. "I think that is a good
+suggestion, and after that is done any of us can tell you the history of
+different epochs as opportunity offers. You are both such good listeners
+that it is a pleasure to talk to you, but I want you to promise to
+interrupt me with questions whenever you wish anything more fully
+explained."
+
+We promised to do so, and Thorwald began:
+
+"Our world is very old. The geologic formations tell us of a time when
+no life could exist--long ages of convulsion and change in the crust
+of the globe. In time the conflict of the elements subsided and the
+boundaries between land and water were established. Then came vegetable
+life, rank and abundant, preparing stores of coal and oil for use in the
+far future. Animals followed, the first forms crude and monstrous,
+but succeeded by others better adapted to be the contemporaries and
+companions of our race.
+
+"The planet was now ready for its destiny, and it was put into the hands
+of intelligent beings, made in the image of their Creator. This race
+started in the highest conceivable state, perfect in body, mind, and
+spirit. The material world was soon subdued to their use, and paradise
+reigned below. We do not know how long this condition lasted, but in
+some way sin entered and all was changed. Sorrow and death came, and a
+thousand ills to vex us. Another period passed, and the race had become
+so wicked that it could not be allowed to exist. A pestilence swept
+over the world, and all but one tribe perished. Through this remnant the
+world was repeopled, but sin and woe remained, to be driven out at last
+only by a struggle too great for the arm of flesh alone.
+
+"But the conflict began in hope, a hope inspired by the voice of God.
+From the very entrance of sin help from above had been promised in the
+person of one who should conquer evil, and through whom the race might
+be restored to a much higher position even than that from which it had
+fallen. Slowly the spirit of good, which is the spirit of God, worked
+upon the heart, and in all ages there were some who walked in that
+spirit. By one such soul God raised up a people to whom he committed his
+message to the race, and through whom, at a later day, he fulfilled the
+promise. Among this people there arose many faithful ones, and by them,
+from time to time, God added to his message, acting as the personal
+guide and defender of his people, and leading them by every path until
+they finally knew him, in every fiber of their being, to be the only
+God.
+
+"Prophets, too, there were among them, who, under divine guidance,
+foretold a time of universal peace, when the kingdom of Christ should
+come in all hearts and when even the beasts of the field should dwell
+together in unity."
+
+"Why, we have just such prophecies," said I, "but they are generally
+interpreted figuratively. Do you really think they will be literally
+fulfilled on the earth?"
+
+"Well," answered Thorwald, "I have already told you what has come to
+pass here, and I will leave you to judge from our experience as to what
+will come of the prophecies that have been made to you. From all you
+have said at one time and another, I can see plenty of evidence that the
+earth is traveling the same road with us, and I have no doubt it will
+one day reach even a higher condition than the one we now enjoy.
+
+"At length, when the time was ripe, God sent the promised Saviour. He,
+the Lord of heaven, came and lived as one of us. He gathered around him
+a few faithful souls, he preached his gospel of light and comfort to
+the poor, and wept over the very woes he had come down to remove. His
+humility proved a stumbling-block to the selfishness of the world, and
+his own nation rejected him. He conquered death and returned to his
+Father's home, but his spirit, which had always been present in some
+measure, now came with force, and began, through his followers, the task
+of regenerating the race.
+
+"A feeble church, planted thus amid sin and darkness, took deep root
+in loyal hearts, grew strong with persecution, and soon kindled a light
+which pierced the darkness and gradually spread its illumination
+over all our planet. The history of that church is the history of our
+development. The race has not come so far toward its maturity without a
+mighty struggle. The long course of preparation for the present higher
+condition has had many interruptions and obstructions. There have been
+dark ages of stagnation and threatened defeat, and there have been
+ages of hope and advancement. Through all this history the light of the
+gospel, though often obscured, has never been extinguished, and every
+step of progress that has been made in our condition is to be traced
+directly to that light. We have not always been able to realize that;
+but, now that we understand more fully our wonderful career, we see how
+true it is that we have been led by a divine hand."
+
+"Do you mean," I asked, "that your vast improvement in material affairs
+has come through Christianity?"
+
+"Certainly," answered Thorwald. "Our civilization has walked hand in
+hand with true religion, and in all ages every permanent advance in our
+condition has come through the influence of the spirit of good, which
+is always urging us to a higher and better state. In our progress many
+mistakes have been made, with consequences so serious as to threaten at
+the time our final defeat; but a higher power has led us through all our
+troubles to a place of safety, where we can survey with gratitude the
+field of conflict. If you so desire, I can relate to you at another time
+some of the mistakes which have at times set us back in our march toward
+a physical and spiritual superiority."
+
+We were pleased to notice by this last remark of Thorwald's that he had
+still in reserve many things to tell us, and we so expressed ourselves
+to him.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXII.
+
+AGAIN THE MOON.
+
+
+Days passed and brought no news of Mona. I did all in my power to appear
+cheerful, but often made a dismal failure of it. No one could help me,
+and Thorwald, though sympathetic like all the rest, would allow me no
+false hopes. He said a systematic and thorough search had been made,
+both on land and water, without result, and he could see no prospect
+of any success in the future. But, while I could see that Thorwald was
+about ready to abandon in despair the attempt to find Mona, I would not
+give up hope. I did not know at the time what excellent reasons Thorwald
+had for his feeling, for I did not realize how very complete the search
+had been, but my own faith was not founded on reason. I simply refused
+to believe that I should never see again the object of such deep love.
+
+While affairs were in this condition, Thorwald said to us one morning:
+
+"I wonder you have not been more anxious to see one of our flying
+machines. Our system of aerial navigation is one of the most enjoyable
+of our material blessings, and I shall take great pleasure in giving you
+a taste of it."
+
+"I think one reason," I answered, "why we have not asked about it is
+because we have had so many other interesting things to see, and then
+you know we had our share of traveling in the air in coming to you.
+However, we shall be delighted to see your method at any time when you
+are pleased to exhibit it."
+
+"Very well," said Thorwald; "then we will get up an expedition at once.
+Zenith and Avis will accompany us, I think; and as we shall probably
+fall in with Foedric, we will send for Antonia to go also."
+
+"That will make a pleasant party," I said.
+
+We found all were glad to go and witness our introduction to a modern
+air ship, and we were soon off.
+
+Not far from the house we found a luxurious carriage of just the right
+size for us all. We did not see another like it anywhere about, and I
+was moved to ask:
+
+"How does it happen, Thorwald, that exactly the kind of conveyance you
+want is ready without any prearrangement? This sort of carriage does not
+appear to be very plentiful."
+
+"Things generally 'happen,' as you call it, for our convenience," he
+said. "Is it not so with you to some extent? If all the people wanted to
+travel in your cars on the same day and at the same hour, they could not
+easily be accommodated, but some dispensation divides them up so that
+there are, I presume, about the same number who find it necessary or
+convenient to travel each day. This subject has been studied by us, and
+we believe that even these details of our lives are all arranged by him
+to whom nothing is small, nothing great."
+
+A pleasant ride of a few miles brought us to a seaport, and to a
+scene of much activity. It seemed to be a great distributing point, as
+numerous loads of many kinds of goods were moving about, and immense
+stores of fruit and vegetables were to be seen. These products of the
+soil were of bewildering variety and surpassing richness, showing us
+that agriculture, providing most of the food of the people, must be a
+favorite science with many, and one that brought rich rewards. It was
+pleasing to see everything going on in such a quiet, orderly manner, and
+so many people at work without friction and with no look of fret, hurry,
+or fatigue. Everyone seemed to be enjoying his work, if that could be
+called work which looked so much like pleasure.
+
+After riding through several busy streets we drew near an imposing
+structure, which Thorwald told us was the front of the aerial station.
+At the same time he directed our attention to the sky, and we saw a
+number of air ships sailing leisurely along, some just starting out
+and others apparently returning home. The doctor and I had our interest
+quickened by this sight and were anxious for a closer view. As the fact
+of riding in the air was not new to us, we had not been much excited by
+the prospect of seeing how the Martians did it. But these ships were
+so different from anything we had ever seen before that we began to
+anticipate a great deal from our excursion after all.
+
+Going through the building, we came into an immense court or open space,
+large enough, one would suppose, for the fleets of a nation. Here were
+a great number of flying machines of various sizes, all gayly decorated
+with pleasing colors, and many of them, apparently, waiting for
+passengers. Thorwald selected one of medium size, and as we approached,
+whom should we find in charge but our young friend Foedric? In answer to
+Thorwald's question, he told us that both he and his vessel were at our
+service, and we proceeded to mount to our seats in the car.
+
+Foedric pulled a small lever, and we began to rise. He then expressed
+his pleasure to the doctor and me that he had the opportunity of making
+our further acquaintance.
+
+"We are taking them for the ride," said Thorwald, "and you may choose
+any course and go to any height you please."
+
+We thanked Foedric for his pleasant words, and then he showed us about
+the car and explained its conveniences. It was quite large, with a
+number of apartments and accommodations sufficient for a dozen people
+both day and night. Besides the ordinary furnishings for comfortable
+living, we saw air-condensing machines for use in lofty flights, a
+good-sized telescope, instruments for measuring speed and height, and
+other scientific apparatus of much of which we were obliged to ask the
+use.
+
+Although Foedric was so much younger than Thorwald, he was taller and
+larger every way--a magnificent specimen of a magnificent race. In
+speaking to Thorwald he showed a proper respect for his greater age, and
+he bore himself becomingly in the presence of Zenith; but there was not
+the slightest sign of subserviency, nor anything to show that, though
+engaged in what might be called a lowly occupation, he was not on terms
+of perfect equality and even friendship with them. This easy poise of
+manner would not have surprised us had we known what Thorwald soon told
+us, and from this experience we learned never to judge a Martian by the
+work he happened to be doing.
+
+"Foedric is a scholar," said Thorwald, "and is engaged just now in
+writing a treatise on the color of sounds."
+
+This announcement was a double surprise, for we would have said, if he
+was writing anything, that it must be something about ballooning--the
+application of electricity to flying machinery, perhaps. But Thorwald
+further enlightened us, the talk going on in Foedric's presence:
+
+"He was attracted to that subject by the fact that he possesses in a
+striking degree the faculty of hearing color, which belongs only to
+refined minds. We all have this power to some extent, but in this, as
+in so many other things, there are great differences among us. As an
+example of this power, if you will excuse me, Doctor, I will tell you
+that your voice is dark blue, while yours," he continued, turning to me,
+"is yellow. Foedric, a true son of Mars, speaks red, and as for Zenith,
+her soft, pink voice has always been to me one of her principal charms,
+and though it would be folly to deny that she has changed some in
+appearance (not for the worse, however) since I first knew her, her
+voice has retained the same tone or color. I will ask Foedric if I am
+correct in my impressions."
+
+"Quite correct," answered Foedric. "When I first heard your friend, the
+doctor, speak I thought his voice was brown, but it has changed since
+to such an extent that I think as you do--that the prevailing tinge is
+a deep blue. Such cases are not unknown among us, but they are not
+frequent."
+
+"If the color of my voice sympathizes with my thoughts," said the
+doctor, "I do not wonder that your quick ears have noticed a change."
+
+"I ought to say," resumed Foedric, "that I have to rely on my friends to
+tell me the shade of my own voice, for to my ears it is as colorless as
+a piece of the clearest glass, and this is the common experience."
+
+"I would like to ask about the color of Antonia's voice," I said, "and
+Avis's, too."
+
+"Antonia's is a beautiful green," answered Foedric, looking with a
+smile at the fair one, "and Avis, both in song and speech, has your
+color--yellow."
+
+"Foedric," said Thorwald, "tell our friends what you and others are
+trying to discover in connection with the air vibrations. It may be
+suggestive to them."
+
+"I can claim but little part in the work," Foedric responded, "but it
+is this. Our ears report to our brain the air waves until they reach
+a frequency of forty thousand in a second, and we call the sensation
+sound. When the vibrations of the ether are more rapid than that, we
+have no sense with which to receive the impression until they reach the
+great number of four hundred million millions in a second. Then they
+affect the eye and produce red light, and as they increase still more
+the color becomes orange, then yellow, green, blue, and violet. Perhaps
+your limitations are not the same as ours, but our scientists are trying
+to discover some means by which we can arrest and make use of a small
+part at least of those waves which strike our bodies at a frequency
+between forty thousand and four hundred million millions. It is still an
+unsolved problem, this search for another sense, and we are now
+looking forward for help in the task to the studies of the civilization
+represented in our comet."
+
+All this time we were rising slowly but hardly realizing it, being
+filled with that peculiar sensation, incident to balloon journeys, by
+which we could almost believe we were remaining about in the same place
+and the solid ground was falling away from us.
+
+Now Foedric increased our speed and showed us how easily he could
+sail in any direction and at any rate he pleased, explaining to us the
+mechanism by which we were upheld and propelled, and also the way
+in which the current of electricity was generated and applied. They
+certainly had a wonderful method of producing great power with little
+weight, and the doctor eagerly drank in the information in regard to it,
+as if for future use.
+
+It was charming. The atmosphere was as clear as crystal, the air balmy
+and the motion delightful, and if the Martians, with their purer
+nature and keener senses, enjoyed the trip that morning more than we
+earth-dwellers did, then their capacity for enjoyment must have been
+beyond ours. The ship seemed to be under perfect control; there was
+nothing uncertain in her movements, and as we went sailing along without
+fear of harm, in the very poetry of motion, the doctor and I realized
+over and over again that we had much to learn in this method of
+navigation.
+
+Now we were riding at a good height, and our vision could take in a wide
+expanse of land and water. The peculiarity of the surface of Mars was
+noticeable, the seas being long, narrow inlets, as it were, running
+through or between winding strings of land, a decided contrast to the
+great oceans and noble continents of our mother earth. It seemed to
+me that this was much to the advantage of the earth, and so I was bold
+enough to say:
+
+"When I used to look at a map of Mars, Thorwald, I remember thinking
+that the planet was not a handsome one, whatever might be the character
+of its inhabitants. But I have no doubt you have an answer for me which
+will give some good reason for the peculiar structure of the surface of
+Mars and make me ashamed of my sentimental preference for the earth."
+
+"I certainly hope you will hear nothing while you are with us to make
+you ashamed of your own planet," said Thorwald; "but I must tell you the
+truth in regard to Mars. How do you like our climate, as far as you have
+experienced it?"
+
+"We have enjoyed it exceedingly," I answered, "and I have been on the
+point of remarking several times that we were fortunate in making our
+visit here at so pleasant a season of the year."
+
+"But," said Thorwald, "you could not have come in a worse season, for
+we have none worse than this. The temperature varies enough to give
+variety, but not enough in either direction to cause discomfort. Each
+season is quite distinctive from the others, but each has its peculiar
+charm and all are equally enjoyable. Our telescopes tell us it is not
+so on the earth, for we can see the winter snow creep well down on its
+surface and remain there several months, then go away and come on the
+other hemisphere. We know this means great changes of climate, and as
+the inclination of the axis of the earth to the plane of its orbit is
+about the same as that of the axis of Mars, we believe we would have
+equally violent changes were it not for the fortunate distribution of
+land and water on our planet. All those narrow seas which disfigure our
+surface in your eyes, are in reality vast rivers, which are constantly
+bearing the water from one part of the globe to another. The warm water
+of the equatorial regions is carried to the cold countries north and
+south, and the water thus displaced cools in its turn the lands more
+directly under the sun. Thus the temperature of all parts is nearly
+equalized. In the summer in this latitude the water that washes our
+shores is cool and in the winter it is warm, and the strips of land
+are so narrow that all places feel the influence, making the climate
+delightful everywhere. At each pole there is a spot of perpetual snow,
+but these are comparatively small, and the fields are cultivated right
+up to the foot of the snow hills."
+
+This recital excited the doctor's interest amazingly, and as Thorwald
+closed he said:
+
+"I rather think my companion did not expect so complete an answer, but
+I am glad his words suggested to you this statement, Thorwald. It is
+of great value to us in our study of your remarkable planet. How
+wonderfully God has adapted everything to your comfort and well-being!"
+
+Thorwald smiled in appreciation of the doctor's final words, but before
+he had time to speak we were a little startled by the red voice of
+Foedric, calling out:
+
+"The moon! Look!"
+
+It was nothing new for any of us now to look at our old moon. We had
+seen it almost every day, had talked much about it, and thought the
+novelty of its companionship to Mars about worn off. But our present
+high position and the clear, thin atmosphere gave it quite a changed
+appearance, as it was slowly coming into view above the horizon. We
+watched it in silence for a while and saw it mount the eastern sky, and
+I think all of us except Foedric had the same thought, that it appeared
+to be much nearer than usual. Foedric had seen it before from the same
+height, and knew when he called our attention to it that we were going
+to be surprised.
+
+As the moon rose still higher it appeared to be coming toward us,
+instead of aiming at a point far over our heads, and our next sensation
+was caused by Zenith, who mildly exclaimed:
+
+"It cannot be more than a few miles away. Why not go and make it a
+visit?"
+
+To her surprise, if people of such high endowments ever are surprised,
+Thorwald asked quickly:
+
+"Are you willing to try it if the rest of us are?"
+
+"Certainly," she replied.
+
+"Foedric," said Thorwald, "what do you say to flying out to the moon and
+attempting an invasion of it?"
+
+"I say," answered Foedric, "that I am ready. We have provisions
+enough for several days, and I believe the capacity of our battery is
+sufficient for the trip." Thorwald learned from Avis and Antonia that
+they would not object to the trial, and then said:
+
+"Well, we have a good majority, but must not think of deciding on so
+important a step unless the feeling is unanimous. Let us hear from our
+friends here, who have had some experience with the moon."
+
+The doctor said pleasantly that he should like nothing better than the
+proposed experiment, and, as I was the last, I remarked that I could
+not spoil such an interesting project by withholding my consent. But it
+seemed to me all the time that the whole thing was a joke and that
+it would end at once in a laugh. I thought of the cold and cheerless
+surface of the moon, comparing it in my mind with the delectable world
+we were leaving, and had no relish for the proposed trip. Something of
+my feeling must have been reflected in my countenance, for Zenith, who
+had been looking at me, said in a sympathetic tone:
+
+"Although you gave your consent, you look as if you did not enjoy the
+prospect of another visit to the moon."
+
+Thorwald heard this remark, and after a glance at me he said:
+
+"You are right, Zenith, and I think we will abandon the idea at once.
+We started out today for the purpose of entertaining the doctor and his
+friend, and it would not become us to treat them to more of a ride than
+they desire."
+
+"You are both excellent mind readers," I responded. "And if I were as
+honest as you Martians are, I suppose I should have said in the first
+place that I preferred not to make such an extended journey. I suspect
+the doctor is willing to go ahead, as he is too sensible to be affected
+by such a feeling as now moves me. My thoughts turn back to our
+departure from the earth in a balloon, and I cannot rid my mind of
+the dreadful fear that perhaps we are now unconsciously bidding a long
+farewell to Mars."
+
+Thorwald thanked me for my frankness and said they should certainly
+respect my sentiment. He then stepped to Foedric's side to speak to him
+in regard to a change of course. At that moment I looked at the moon,
+which had been rapidly approaching us. What was it that suddenly gave it
+a deeper interest to me? A flash of intelligence suffused my being
+like an electric shock, frilling my imagination with the most beautiful
+vision and making the moon appear to me now as the one desirable place
+in all the universe.
+
+"Thorwald," I exclaimed, "keep right on! I want to go now. I have
+changed my mind."
+
+"Yes," he responded, looking at me with a pleased smile, "and I see you
+have changed your face, too. You look like quite another man. Why this
+sudden transition?"
+
+"Don't you know? Mona is there."
+
+"Where?"
+
+"In the moon, of course."
+
+"How do you know that? You seem to be pretty confident."
+
+"Why, she must be there. You couldn't find her on land or water, and you
+know you have no accidents in Mars, so she could not have come to any
+harm there. I know we shall find her in the moon. She must have been
+left behind in some way when the doctor and I were thrown off, and
+now she is no doubt expecting us to come back to her. Oh, let us make
+haste."
+
+"Well," answered Thorwald, "we were only waiting your consent, and we
+can now keep on as we are going and try to reach the moon. But I must
+give you a friendly warning not to let your hope get the better of your
+judgment in regard to finding your friend."
+
+With this Thorwald and Foedric consulted a moment, and at once our speed
+increased till we were flying at a fearful rate, but none too fast for
+me. I knew now why I had been so reluctant to go so far away from
+Mars. It was because I thought Mona was there; but now, with my present
+opinion, the moon had suddenly changed its character and become to my
+imagination a bright and beautiful world. To such a degree does love
+transform the most unlovely objects.
+
+I was struck with the easy way in which Zenith had accepted the result
+of what I thought her sportive suggestion, and, not being able to fathom
+her thoughts, I said to her:
+
+"When we left home, this morning, you did not expect to be gone over
+night. Have you no anxiety about the house and the children?"
+
+"Oh, no," she replied; "the house will not run away, nor the children
+either. We do not often stay away from them over night, but we do not
+hesitate to do so when we have a good reason for it. Our children know
+us well enough to be sure we have such a reason now, and this faith
+in us and in our safe return will permit us to stay away as long as we
+please. As for our feelings, we have no such thing as anxiety, for all
+our experience teaches us that no harm of any kind can come to our loved
+ones. I suppose in such circumstances on the earth both the mother and
+the children would have a feeling of great fear, caused by the fact that
+there would be in reality some danger of harm, but here we have never
+heard of such a thing, and even the word 'danger' has little meaning in
+it to us, because all we know about it comes from our reading." The moon
+was now well above us, and we were making for a point in the western
+sky where Foedric hoped to intercept it. We were already so far from
+the planet that the air was getting weak, so we all put on breathing
+machines. These were of such perfect construction that our lungs had
+free play, nor were they cumbersome enough to interfere much with our
+movements.
+
+By this time the moon had grown so vastly, owing to our swift traveling,
+that our friends began to be amazed at its enormous proportions. The
+jagged, mountainous surface was plainly visible, a most uninviting place
+for people accustomed to the serene beauty and felicity of the planet
+Mars.
+
+"Remember," said the doctor, "that you are not to judge the earth by
+what you see of her old satellite."
+
+"Well," answered Thorwald, "we mean to see what we can of the satellite.
+Foedric, let us point the glass at it and be selecting a place to land."
+
+But Foedric was obliged to let Thorwald handle the glass alone, for his
+attention was needed just now to manage our craft. He had discovered
+that shutting off the power did not diminish the speed, and for a moment
+he was puzzled, quite a new sensation for a Martian of that era. But he
+soon studied out the difficulty and made the following announcement:
+
+"I find this huge mass that we are approaching is pulling us toward its
+surface, so that we are using but little power. I expect in a short time
+we can merely fall to its surface."
+
+This suggested to Thorwald the very trouble that the doctor and I had
+encountered with our balloon, and he asked Foedric if we could get away
+again after we had dropped to the moon.
+
+"Yes," Foedric answered, "I am sure we have power enough here to
+overcome the attraction and get away whenever we please."
+
+Thorwald, who had been intently studying the surface through the
+telescope, now spoke out with some excitement in his voice:
+
+"Doctor, I begin to think you did not make a thorough investigation of
+the moon's condition. Did you not report it practically uninhabited?"
+
+"Our means of investigation were rather limited," replied the doctor,
+"but we surely found no inhabitants except poor Mona, whom, I am
+confident, we shall never see again. Why do you ask? Are there any
+signs of life visible? I have no doubt you Martians can see more at this
+distance than we could when standing on the globe itself."
+
+"Well," Thorwald answered, "either you reached wrong conclusions or else
+a race has grown up there pretty rapidly. I cannot make out anything
+definite yet, but there is smoke, I am sure, and I can see some object
+moving about."
+
+I had great difficulty in restraining my feelings as Thorwald uttered
+these words, but neither he nor the doctor seemed to realize what
+significance they had for me. Both had apparently given up all
+expectation of finding Mona anywhere, and these evidences of life, so
+plain to me, were therefore inexplicable to them. I controlled myself
+and begged Thorwald to let me look through the glass. He adjusted it
+for me, but before I could get a satisfactory view our swift motion made
+such a change in the appearance of the surface that Thorwald could not
+find the same spot again.
+
+As no one said a word to indicate any thought of connecting Mona with
+the movements that Thorwald had observed, I determined that I would keep
+quiet also and await the result of our landing. I let my thoughts fly to
+my love, who, without doubt, had seen the approach of our air ship and
+was expecting our speedy arrival. What an addition she would make to our
+party, and how these Martians would study her history as she recounted
+it in that exquisite voice. But I should claim a large share of her time
+for myself. How glad I was to think that Foedric had so openly shown his
+affection for Antonia. Surely I need not harbor the jealous feeling that
+would arise, for so true a son of Mars could not fall to the level of
+some earthly men, and be unfaithful to so noble a girl as Antonia. It
+was beyond all reason, and yet my love for Mona, whom I thought we were
+soon to find, was such that I undesignedly but still unmistakably made
+up my mind to keep a close watch on handsome Foedric.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIII.
+
+WE SEARCH FOR MONA.
+
+
+We were indeed approaching the surface with great rapidity, and Foedric
+was obliged to put on power to prevent us from falling too swiftly.
+Fortunately he was able to keep our ship under perfect management, and
+so, without accident or even a shock, he brought us gently to land,
+not far from the spot where Thorwald had seen the signs of life. It was
+something new for the latter to show so much curiosity, but he could not
+be more eager than I was to attempt to find out what we had seen through
+the telescope. So, leaving the rest of the party, we two started out to
+investigate. It was kind of Thorwald to take me along, because he could
+ordinarily walk a great deal faster without me, but my love and hope now
+added wings to my feet and I surprised him with my agility.
+
+Thorwald's skill in determining locality enabled him to choose the right
+direction, and after quite a walk we ascended a considerable hill, from
+which we were delighted to discover in the distance a small column of
+smoke--a remarkable sight on that sterile shore. We hastened toward it,
+Thorwald with high expectations of an important discovery, and I with a
+heart beating with joyful anticipations of a different character.
+
+As we approached the spot of such intense interest for us both, I
+watched my companion closely to see how he would bear the disappointment
+which I felt sure awaited him; and this, I think, made it a
+little easier for me to endure my own grief, for, of course, I was
+disappointed, too. I ought to have known better than to expect to find
+Mona out on the bleak surface, when she had such a comfortable home
+inside the moon. What we found at the end of our journey was merely
+another party of Martians, who had stolen a march on us and made a prior
+invasion of the moon. But so unselfish were they that when they saw our
+ship afar off they began to make a smudge and smoke in order to attract
+our attention and give us the opportunity of sharing with them the glory
+of their anticipated discoveries. They were pleased with our success in
+finding them, and proposed that we join our forces in a common camp. So,
+leaving me, Thorwald returned for the rest of our party, and in due time
+we were all together, conversing on the footing of old acquaintances.
+The moon had improved somewhat since we knew it, as everything must
+which remains in the vicinity of the planet Mars, but it was not yet,
+as far as the outside, at least, was concerned, a desirable place for a
+long sojourn.
+
+Our new friends had, unlike us, started from home with the intention of
+making the attempt to land on the moon, and, having come prepared with
+tools for a little scientific work, had already begun investigating,
+with a view to finding out whether the moon contained any vestiges of
+life. They had heard of the doctor and me and the outlines of our story,
+but now we had to relate to them in detail all our experience on the
+moon, while I concluded my part of the narration with the statement of
+my firm conviction that Mona was still in her quiet refuge, waiting for
+us to return and rescue her. This interested them exceedingly, and they
+were eager to join us in searching for her.
+
+The members of our party, catching something of my hope, were ready
+to enter at once upon this task, and it was decided to divide all our
+forces into two companies, one to be led by the doctor and the other
+by me, and then to start in different directions to try to find the
+entrance to that long passage into the interior. As we knew not on what
+part of the moon's surface we had alighted, we were undertaking a
+bold piece of work, but its apparent difficulty had no terrors for the
+Martians, and I should not have hesitated if the circumference of the
+moon had been a hundred times what it was. As for the doctor, he had too
+much spirit to suggest any obstacles.
+
+We arranged a code of signals, and agreed that if either party were
+successful the other should be notified and the descent made only when
+all had come together. After dividing the provisions we made our adieus
+and separated, not knowing when we should see one another again.
+
+But, fortunately, our elaborate preparations were not of much use, for
+before we had been out an hour the doctor signaled to me that he
+had found some familiar landmarks. This meant that he was sure of
+discovering what we were in search of, and accordingly we started at
+once to rendezvous with his company. On our arrival I recognized, with
+exultant joy, the features of the landscape which had attracted the
+doctor's attention. We now led the way with complete assurance, and came
+at length to the crater down whose side Mona had so strangely led us.
+The wind was not so strong now, but I was none the less eager to descend
+and enter that dark way, at the other end of which such happiness
+awaited me. By this time, also, the whole party were becoming enthused
+over the situation. When they came to see, one after another, features
+which they had heard us describe, they acquired a personal interest
+which had been impossible before, and everyone began to share my faith
+in regard to Mona.
+
+As we entered the tunnel, the doctor and myself still in the lead, I
+called Avis and asked her to keep as near me as possible.
+
+"I am flattered," she said, "but what do you want to have me do?"
+
+"Sing," I answered.
+
+"What for? You needn't be afraid of the dark, for we can give you light
+enough."
+
+And at that instant out flashed half a dozen lamps from different
+members of the party, a timely illustration of the use of their portable
+electricity.
+
+"No, Avis," I said, "I am not afraid, but I would like to recall
+something of the sensation of our first descent into the moon, when we
+were led, as you know, by the sound of beautiful music. And then, as
+we near the end, Mona may hear you, and that would be a more gentle
+introduction than if we should burst upon her unannounced. I know she
+is not subject to fear or the usual emotions to which I have been
+accustomed on the earth, but still I think she would like to have us
+come back to her heralded by your noble song."
+
+Seeing how serious I was in the matter, Avis promised to do as I wished,
+only suggesting that all the rest should join her from time to time. So,
+without any unpleasant incident, we traversed the long passage, walking
+rapidly by the aid of the light and conversing about our interesting
+situation. It was a rare and pleasing experience for the doctor and
+me to be showing these wise Martians something new, and we enjoyed the
+novel sensation of watching their excitement. The fact that we could so
+satisfactorily entertain our friends after their own fashion with us was
+something long to be remembered.
+
+But not another one of all the company had the intensity of feeling
+which filled my breast. Knowing that every downward step was leading me
+rapidly toward a determination of my fate, I could scarcely control my
+emotions. Either I was soon to find my heart's life and be raised to the
+highest pinnacle of happiness, or I was to undergo a disappointment from
+which I might not recover. For if Mona was not here, where could I look
+for her? Could I ever regain my hopeful spirits if I should lose her
+now? I tried to crowd out these dark forebodings by thinking of my love
+and trying to picture the scene in the midst of which we should discover
+her.
+
+At length we were drawing near the end. The path was growing wider,
+which proved to the doctor and me that we should soon emerge into the
+open village. Indeed, a faint gleam of light was beginning to be seen
+far in the front. We now pushed on more rapidly, and as we approached
+the exit Avis was singing at her highest pitch. She stopped suddenly,
+and then a low and distant strain came to us, sweet even to the ears of
+our cultured friends from Mars. My heart beat wildly as Thorwald, who
+was close behind us, exclaimed:
+
+"Hark, hear the echo!"
+
+"Ho!" I cried, "that's not an echo. That's the original, and Avis is the
+echo. Sing out again, Avis."
+
+A loud, clear note trembled on the air, and brought back to our
+straining sense, not a repetition of itself but a snatch of varied
+melody which showed it to be no echo, although evidently an answer.
+There have been few moments in my life more crowded with happiness than
+that one. And it was not a passive feeling of enjoyment, but one that
+spurred me to action. The swift pace which we had all by this time
+reached was now too slow for me. Seized again by the same fierce passion
+which took possession of me at my first acquaintance with Mona's voice,
+I started in her direction on a run, flinging aside everything that
+might impede me, so overmastered was I by my desire to see her.
+
+But my unreasonable haste brought me a grievous reward. I leaped over
+the ground with great rapidity for a few minutes, and then, stepping on
+a treacherous stone, turned my ankle and fell heavily to the ground, my
+head, thrust forward in running, being the first point of contact with
+the cruel rocks.
+
+I returned to consciousness by degrees. My faithful ears were, as usual,
+the first friends to renew acquaintance with me, and the sound they
+brought was so soothing that I wished for nothing more than to remain as
+I was, ears only, and listen to it forever. But this was impossible, as
+I was slowly recovering my other senses and becoming a thinking being
+once more. I now recognized the pleasant sound as the music of a
+familiar voice; yes, it was Mona's voice in conversation. I was sure of
+that, but it seemed so natural that I was not startled. I felt that I
+must remain perfectly quiet, or the spell would be broken and the
+music cease. Then I began to wonder where I was and who were with me. I
+recalled the circumstances of our descent into the moon and my fall as
+I was running to meet Mona. My mind was active, but I feared that I was
+physically weak, for I did not seem to have even a desire to move. I
+wanted to see the face of the dear girl, and it is remarkable that I
+did not open my eyes at once and call her by name. But I was not in a
+natural state. The feeling was not sufficiently strong to move me to
+action. I was just conscious enough to be passively happy, content to
+lie there quietly and enjoy one thing at a time.
+
+Hitherto I had not tried to distinguish the words, so satisfied was I
+with the exquisite tones, but now my attention was compelled by this
+yellow expression:
+
+"So I understand you to say he would not give me up as lost?"
+
+It was the pink voice of Zenith that answered:
+
+"No, indeed. He never faltered in his faith that you would be found. You
+owe it to him that you can soon leave this worn-out world with us, and
+we are indebted to him for giving us such a dear friend."
+
+"And he admired my singing?" said Mona in a questioning tone.
+
+"Yes, and everything pertaining to you. He never tired of rehearsing
+your perfections, and the doctor tells us he loved you from the very
+first. He certainly seems most devoted to you. I hope, my dear, that you
+love him."
+
+I was now recovered enough to feel some compunctions about listening
+further to this conversation, but that is not saying that I had any
+great desire to stop listening. I knew that in Mona's answer to Zenith's
+implied question lay my fate, and my moral doubts were not strong enough
+to make me do anything to keep it back. It has been said on the earth
+that people who surreptitiously hear themselves spoken of are never
+pleased, but things must be quite different inside the moon, for,
+without a shadow of hesitation and in the sweetest air that ever floated
+from her lips, came Mona's answer:
+
+"Love him? Certainly I love him. Why should I not? I loved him when he
+was here before, and I should be very ungrateful if I did not care a
+great deal more for him when I know what he has done for me, and that he
+now lies here suffering for my sake."
+
+"Oh, Mona," I said to myself, "if this be suffering, let me never know
+happiness."
+
+Zenith began to speak again, when she was interrupted by the opening
+of a door. I heard someone walk towards me, and then the doctor's voice
+broke the silence.
+
+"How is he, Mona? Is there any change?"
+
+"No," replied my beloved, "he hasn't stirred nor shown a sign of
+consciousness. Cannot something more be done for him?"
+
+I was becoming a little hardened in my guilt by this time, and, although
+my strength seemed now to be returning to me, I decided to keep still
+yet longer and hear what words of wisdom the doctor would utter on my
+case.
+
+"I know of nothing that can be done," he said. "He received no injury
+except the wound on his head, and that, apparently, is not serious.
+Time is the great healer in such cases. My chief fear is that when he
+recovers consciousness we will find his memory is defective, as it was
+after his plunge into your ocean, Zenith. He will doubtless forget how
+we ever got into this strange place, and I am almost sure he will not
+recognize Mona, for that was the direction in which he failed before."
+
+"But you forget," said Zenith, "that Mona herself will be here to sing
+for him."
+
+"I fear not even that will recall his wandering wits this time. You know
+he is more badly hurt than before. I dislike to cause you pain, Mona,
+but I must be frank and tell you that our friend will probably never
+know you again."
+
+One would naturally expect Mona to have burst into tears at this
+hopeless prospect, but instead of that she sang out, as joyously as
+ever:
+
+"Never mind me, Doctor. Only restore him to health and happiness, and
+it will be of little moment whether he remembers me or not. No one knows
+better than you do that I am always happy, that's why I am singing all
+the time."
+
+Such unselfishness as this was more than I could appreciate, and rather
+more, I thought, than was called for by the circumstances. How could she
+love me so, and still not care if I never were to know her again? Was
+she the same Mona, after all, who had so provokingly eluded my love
+during my former visit? These reflections caused me to decide to come to
+life, and claim her as mine before she resigned all her interest in me.
+
+So, opening my eyes and looking in her face, I said, as quietly as
+possible:
+
+"I do remember you, dear Mona, and shall never forget you. Doctor, you
+see your science has proved false again."
+
+"And glad indeed I am that it has," he rejoined, "since it is so greatly
+to our advantage."
+
+Then they all gathered around me, and called the others to a general
+rejoicing over my sudden recovery. My physical injury was but slight,
+and it was not long before my stupor was entirely gone and I was moving
+about again. Aside from the finding of Mona, many other things in this
+place of her abode interested the different members of our party. All
+were jubilant over the new opportunities for study and investigation,
+and they promised themselves the pleasure of many more visits to the
+place in the future. They had now seen enough for once, and all wanted
+to join in the agreeable task of escorting Mona to Mars and introducing
+her there. So, without more delay, we ascended to the surface once more,
+found our air ships in good order, and soon sailed away, leaving the
+moon without an inhabitant.
+
+Our friends from the antipodes landed with us, and remained some days
+before reembarking for home.
+
+During our voyage down there was a general agreement to give me plenty
+of opportunity to remain in Mona's immediate company, though no one
+seemed to think we need feel at all embarrassed when our conversation
+was overheard by others.
+
+"Mona," I said, "were you glad to see our relief party when they
+arrived?"
+
+"I was indeed," she replied, "and yet I was as happy as a bird, living
+there all by myself and singing for my own amusement the whole day
+long."
+
+"It is an astonishing thing to me," I continued, "that after the doctor
+and I had left you so unceremoniously you could go back to your lonely
+home and be happy there."
+
+"Why, did you think I would mourn for you?"
+
+"Well, yes, I think that would be natural, considering something I
+know."
+
+"Oh, I should like to hear what you know."
+
+"If I tell you, I shall have to make a confession."
+
+"What is a confession, and how can you make one? Have you anything to
+make it of?"
+
+"Oh, yes," I replied, laughing. "A confession is an acknowledgment that
+one has done something wrong, and should be made to the person to whom
+the wrong has been done."
+
+"Well," said Mona, "if that is it, I am sure I shall never have to make
+one, for I have never done anything wrong."
+
+This agreed so well with my conception of her that I did not then take
+in the full meaning of her words, but said in reply:
+
+"But I have, and this is one thing when you were talking to Zenith about
+me and thought I was unconscious I was recovering, and lay quite still
+so as to hear what you said."
+
+"And did I say anything to displease you?"
+
+"No, indeed; you said you loved me, and it made me very happy."
+
+"Oh, I remember now. Zenith said she hoped I loved you, and I told her
+I did. I have always loved you, of course, but I don't see how that can
+make you happy."
+
+"That's singular," I answered. "I should think you would understand my
+feeling from your own. But never mind. You and I will be lovers from
+this time forth, and give the people of Mars an example of devotion
+worth considering, will we not?"
+
+"You do make the funniest speeches," she replied. "I don't know half the
+time what you mean. But I am getting tired of sitting so long. Here is
+Antonia. You talk to her about love, and I'll go over and see Foedric."
+
+The lightness of her manner, when I was so deeply in earnest, gave me a
+feeling of uneasiness, which was increased when I saw her easy, familiar
+way with Foedric and heard her merry song as she chatted with him. I was
+not very pleasant company for Antonia, for I could not prevent a return
+of that dreadful jealousy. I wondered if this was always to be the
+history of my wooing--an hour of the supremest happiness, followed so
+speedily by a period of such anguish. I could not possibly talk on any
+other subject, and so I said to Antonia:
+
+"They seem well pleased with each other's society. Are you not afraid
+Foedric will lose his heart to her?"
+
+"My friend," she replied, "we never even think of such things as that. I
+hope you are not serious in asking the question."
+
+"Forgive me, Antonia," I answered; "I hardly know what I am saying."
+
+And then I rose and followed Mona, and said to her when I came near:
+
+"Well, my dear, what do you and Foedric find so pleasant to talk about?"
+
+"Why, you see," she replied, "Foedric was the first one to find me after
+you were hurt, and has been very kind to me since, and I have just been
+telling him I love him. You said it made you happy to hear me say it
+to you, and I wanted to make him happy too. And then I wanted to see if
+Foedric would make such funny speeches as you did."
+
+I controlled myself enough to ask:
+
+"And what did Foedric say?"
+
+"Why, his answer made me laugh more than yours did. He said it would
+make you unhappy to know I had said such a thing to him. I replied that
+I would tell you myself, and that you were always happy when I said
+anything to you; and then you came up just in time."
+
+"Now, Mona, do you think it is right to make sport of such a serious
+matter?"
+
+"I assure you I am in earnest in all I have said."
+
+"Then are you trying to deceive Foedric?"
+
+"Deceive him? What is that?"
+
+"Telling him what isn't true."
+
+"No, indeed. I would never do that."
+
+"It is true, then, that you love him?"
+
+"Certainly it is; isn't it, Foedric?"
+
+I did not wait for Foedric to answer, but continued:
+
+"And still a short time ago you said you loved me."
+
+"Well, is that any wonder, after what you have done for me?"
+
+"But do you love us both at once?"
+
+"I do."
+
+"And do you love Foedric as much as you do me?"
+
+"Certainly. Why shouldn't I? And now let me ask you a question. Do you
+love me?"
+
+"With all my heart."
+
+"Then why do you bother me so, asking all these questions, and saying
+things I don't understand? You appear to be surprised to find that I
+love Foedric. Why, I love everybody. What am I going to do, if I cannot
+love people as much as I want to?"
+
+"You shall, Mona," I replied, with a sudden softening of my heart toward
+her. "I was only going to suggest that, if you love Foedric, Antonia may
+not like you so well."
+
+Foedric began to protest that Antonia would not care, but Mona went
+right on with:
+
+"Another complication. What possible difference could it make to
+Antonia?"
+
+"Why, Antonia and Foedric love each other, you know."
+
+"Oh, they love each other, and therefore no one else can love either of
+them. Is that it? But you have just been talking with Antonia. Don't you
+love her?"
+
+"Oh, no," I replied hastily. "Or, at any rate, not in the same way that
+I love you."
+
+"Not in the same way. That's another remark that I can't see any sense
+in. I must say for myself that I have but one way in which to love, and
+that is with my whole heart, without reserve or qualification. I cannot
+parcel out my love, a little to one, a little more to another, and so
+on. It all goes out to everyone. I couldn't be happy if I should try to
+restrain it. I think it must be like this delicious sunlight, which I am
+just beginning to enjoy, an equal comfort to all who choose to partake
+of it. I love you dearly. What can I do more? If I love others, I am
+not robbing you--take all you want, and then there will be just as much
+left."
+
+"Mona," I asked, as she finished, "where did you get such a heart? You
+are showing me how utterly selfish I have been."
+
+"Good-by," she exclaimed; "I am going back to Antonia. May I love her?"
+
+"You may love everybody," I answered, as she left me with an exquisite
+note on her lips.
+
+Foedric and I fell into conversation about her. Foedric praised her to
+the skies, saying that, if this were a fair specimen, the inhabitants of
+the moon must have been a remarkable people, and that it was unfortunate
+that they had so nearly passed from the stage.
+
+When I found opportunity to think over the situation I concluded that
+I had given my heart to a peculiar being, and what had I received in
+return? She loved me--that was certain. But what kind of love was this,
+which had no respect to persons? I knew I could claim no exclusive right
+to the least corner of her heart, and yet she said: "All my heart is
+yours. What more can you ask?" I was not able to solve the riddle of
+her mysterious nature, but as I heard her tuneful voice and watched her
+beautiful face as she talked with Antonia, the very picture of innocent
+happiness, I realized with great intensity that I loved her more than
+ever. And I resolved to be patient, and try to lead her gradually into
+the way of loving which prevailed on the earth at the time we left it.
+
+In due time we landed on the ruddy planet, and there was great diversion
+for us all in seeing Mona's continued astonishment and in hearing her
+varied song.
+
+It seemed almost like home to enter Thorwald's house again, where we
+found everything just as we had left it. The children did not exhibit
+any astonishment at our long absence, but were glad to see us back and
+eager to hear about our adventures.
+
+The next morning after our arrival Thorwald gave us a long ride in an
+electric carriage to show Mona the country. Returning, we took her about
+the large house and were all delighted to hear her naive remarks. At
+length Zenith asked Thorwald if he could not think of something that
+would interest us all.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIV.
+
+THE PICTURE TELEGRAPH.
+
+
+"Let us step into the music room," said Thorwald. "Doctor, what
+acquaintance have you with the telephone?"
+
+"We think we have brought the telephone to a considerable degree of
+perfection," said the doctor. "At first it was rather crude, and many
+preferred to forego its use in order to escape its annoyances. But of
+recent years great improvements have been made, until its employment is
+now a pleasure, as well as an essential help in our business and social
+life."
+
+"Does it minister to any other sense than the hearing?"
+
+"It does not, although I have seen a vague promise somewhere of an
+invention by which we could see an image of the person we were speaking
+to."
+
+"If that is all, I shall be able to give you a pleasant surprise,"
+pursued Thorwald. "Just sit in those chairs, and do nothing but keep
+your eyes open and listen."
+
+We saw him arrange a series of long panels, in which were elegant
+mirrors, and then, as he gently pulled an ivory knob, there fell
+upon our ears, very faintly, like distant echoes, strains of the most
+delicious music. Gradually the tones became louder and more defined,
+and Zenith, with a quick smile and glance, directed our attention to the
+opposite side of the room. There our wondering eyes beheld the orchestra
+with whose notes we were then enchanted. There must have been a hundred
+players or more, and we seemed to be looking upon them from a distance
+which would bring the whole group within the bounds of the room. It
+was not a picture thrown on a screen, but was as if the musicians were
+actually present. Every motion made with their instruments was in exact
+accord with the accompanying note, and, wherever this orchestra might
+have its local habitation, it was certainly playing before our little
+audience that morning.
+
+As the selection ended the scene faded away under the manipulation of
+Thorwald, and in a moment the room was filled with a harmony of voices
+such as I had never heard on the earth. And now the great chorus
+appeared, crowding this time three sides of the apartment and rising,
+tier on tier, to the ceiling. We could see the glad faces of the singers
+and knew how they must be enjoying their work. Brilliant solo parts
+burst out from one side and the other, and again from the middle throng,
+but it was impossible to tell from what individual singers these notes
+came.
+
+When this scene, too, had passed and the music, all too soon, had
+ceased, Thorwald made haste to answer the inquiry he saw in our faces by
+saying:
+
+"These concerts are now being given in two cities, both of them several
+thousand miles east of here, so far that it is now afternoon there. If
+we desire music after dinner this evening we can make connection with
+some city west of us, and by going farther west we can invoke sweet
+sounds to soothe us to sleep. Being connected with all the musical
+centers, you can see how, by trying either one direction or the other,
+we can have something worth hearing at any hour of the day or night,
+with the players and singers themselves employed, of course, only in the
+daytime. We have daily programmes of every concert sent us by telephone.
+They are received here, you see, and printed automatically on these
+sheets."
+
+Zenith had watched us with eager interest during this marvelous
+exhibition. It was a novel experience, for they had never before had
+the opportunity of showing this perfected invention to those entirely
+ignorant of it, and they both enjoyed seeing the pleasure which must
+have beamed from our faces. I wanted to say something, but could think
+of nothing fit for the occasion, and was relieved to hear the doctor
+speak:
+
+"My good friends," said he, "do not try to show us anything beyond this
+or we shall lose our mental balance. I believe in fairyland now, for I
+have just come from there. I never paid much attention to music on the
+earth, and did not feel any shame for it either, but I am now sure it
+will be to my everlasting disgrace if I neglect it another day."
+
+This speech pleased Zenith exceedingly, and her emotion made her voice
+and manner more charming than ever as she said:
+
+"If you stay with us, Doctor, you shall have plenty of good music, and
+you will soon become not only a music lover but a music maker, for every
+Martian is proficient in this art."
+
+"Do you think," asked the doctor, "that there is the faintest hope that
+the earthly music will ever reach the high standard of that we have just
+heard?"
+
+"Thorwald has told me something of your history," Zenith replied, "and
+I share his strong faith in your happy destiny. It seems to me that
+your race is equal to any achievement you have witnessed here, and even
+greater things, but it will take much time. Such changes are very slow.
+As for us, we hope we are still making advancement in music. We have
+few higher employments, and hardly one in which we are more entirely
+engrossed. It was given to us at an early stage of our development,
+and all through our troubled course music has been one of the chief
+influences for good. It has helped to keep hope alive during the darkest
+periods of our history, and has always been a mighty incentive toward a
+higher spiritual state. As your race advances I am sure you will
+realize more and more the beauty and value of this art, heaven-born and
+exhaustless."
+
+We all smiled at Zenith's happy assurance that the earth was on the
+upward path, and Thorwald said:
+
+"You see hope is contagious. But as we have been through all your
+present troubles and have triumphed over them, it is perhaps easier for
+us to believe in you than for you to believe in yourselves.
+
+"And now, should you like to see how the telephone works in every-day
+matters?"
+
+On our replying in the affirmative, Thorwald turned a switch, waited
+a moment, turned it again, and then there appeared before our eyes a
+familiar object, nothing less than the ship in which we had made our
+recent voyage. A number of the men, whom we recognized, were walking
+about the deck, and one stood apart, near the side of the vessel,
+conversing with Thorwald, the words of both being audible to us. When
+they were through, the scene faded away and Thorwald said:
+
+"As soon as the ship reached its dock connection was made with the
+general system of wires, and the instrument, which is stationed near the
+place where the man was standing, was ready for use.
+
+"So, whenever we desire to talk to our friends, we summon them to
+our presence. You see it is not necessary to speak directly into the
+transmitter. We can sit comfortably in our chairs and converse as easily
+as when our friends are actually present."
+
+"Let me ask you, Thorwald," said the doctor, "how all the electricity
+you use is generated? The immense quantity you employ must necessitate
+a great deal of power to produce it. Is there a huge plant in every city
+driven by steam?"
+
+"No," answered Thorwald. "We make no use of steam in these days. All
+the power we need is obtained from natural waterfalls and rapids. This
+power, which nature has placed ready made at our hand, is so abundant
+that it can never be exhausted."
+
+"These waterfalls must fortunately be well distributed," remarked the
+doctor.
+
+"Not more so, I presume, than on the earth," Thorwald made answer.
+"Every stream that runs in its bed has in it a power proportioned to the
+volume of water and the swiftness of its current. Think of the amount
+of water wasted every day in this way--no, not wasted, but unused. We
+do not need, however, to utilize ordinary streams, as there are enough
+great falls where power is transformed into electricity to be sent over
+wires to any distance required. In every city or district large storage
+facilities are provided from which power can be obtained for all
+possible purposes. Our beds of coal and wells of oil were long since
+exhausted, but while rain falls and water runs this power can never fail
+us.
+
+"Doctor, what is the best metal you have for transmitting electricity?"
+
+"Copper," answered my companion. "Silver is a little better conductor,
+and a new metal, called glucinium, is better still, but both of these
+are too expensive for general use. Our telegraph and telephone wires
+were formerly made of iron for the sake of economy, but copper is now
+used for these lines, as well as for distributing electricity on a
+large scale. The copper wire now commonly used for the telegraph has a
+resistance of something like four ohms to the mile."
+
+"You are making good progress," said Thorwald. "But we have a metal of
+such good conducting qualities that, without making the wire too large
+for convenient use, we have reduced the resistance to an ohm to the
+mile."
+
+"That is an exceedingly valuable metal," the doctor said. "And now let
+me ask you a practical question. You say you draw your electricity for
+a thousand and one uses from a large storage plant in each city. Do you
+pay for it by the kilowatt, or how is it measured?"
+
+"We ask for so many watts or kilowatts, and it is also measured by the
+watt hour. But are you serious in asking if we pay for it?"
+
+"Why, you surely do not mean it is given away," exclaimed the doctor,
+"after all the expense connected with producing and transmitting it."
+
+"Yes, I mean that whatever quantity we want to use is ours for the
+asking. Before we could buy it some one would have to own it, and that
+could never be. Besides, how could we buy anything without money?"
+
+"What! No money either?" broke in the doctor again. "Well, if you can
+get along without money, that accounts in my mind for much of your
+happiness. Just think of that," continued the doctor, turning to me, "to
+be forever rid of money and all the trouble it brings."
+
+"Of what value would it be to us?" asked Thorwald. "We could not use
+it."
+
+"Some of our people on the earth," replied the doctor, "have oceans of
+it which they cannot use, and still they seem to think it is of much
+value. It is an inherent characteristic of our race to love the mere
+possession of money or other property, and human nature must change
+a great deal before we can begin to reach the exalted moral condition
+which you now enjoy, to say nothing of your spiritual state."
+
+"Your nature will change," said Thorwald, "and do not doubt that the
+change has already begun. Time is what you need, and there is time
+enough for everything."
+
+After the midday lunch had been served we were invited to take a walk
+about the grounds. As the doctor and I were admiring the beautiful lawns
+and gorgeous beds of flowers, and then stood enraptured at the sight of
+the noble mansion itself, Zenith watched us eagerly, and finally said,
+with a smile:
+
+"You discovered my favorite department of art this morning. Now is a
+good time to learn what Thorwald's is."
+
+"Judging from what we have already seen and heard of your husband," said
+I, "it seems to me he must be an astronomer, or, if not that, then a
+theological professor."
+
+"If he has been talking to you on either of those subjects," she
+returned, "I have no doubt he told you things worth taking home with
+you, but his pet topics of study are architecture and its sister art,
+landscape gardening. This house is a creature of his brain, and all the
+artistic effects in color and pattern, which I know you have the taste
+to admire, are of his designing."
+
+The simple, unaffected manner in which Zenith showed her pride in her
+husband's achievements was refreshing, and the knowledge she imparted
+only added still more to our high appreciation of our friend.
+
+It was now time for Thorwald to speak, and he remarked quietly:
+
+"It is true that I love architecture. It is another occupation of which
+we can never tire and whose resources we can never fathom. A beautiful,
+dignified, and truly artistic building is one of the highest possible
+products of our civilization, and such work brings out all the poetic
+feeling in one's nature, just as the production of a fine painting or
+piece of sculpture does. These arts, and literature as well, all have
+their special devotees among us, but everyone knows enough of all arts
+to appreciate and enjoy good work in every department.
+
+"We build truthfully, and this helps to make what we build beautiful,
+for truth is beautiful wherever it is found; and beauty is an object to
+be sought after for its own sake, an enjoyable thing well worth striving
+for. Religion and art, using both those terms in a comprehensive sense,
+have worked together, through all our history, to lift up our souls and
+fit them for higher and higher duties."
+
+"Thorwald," said Zenith, "I think our friends would enjoy seeing some
+of our imposing buildings and other works of art while this subject is
+before them."
+
+That this was not a suggestion that we should start on an extended tour
+of the country was proved by Thorwald, who said:
+
+"Very well, we will then go into the music room again, if you please."
+
+Here we were shown, by the new powers of the telephone, a bewildering
+succession of the grandest structures our imagination could picture:
+churches and cathedrals, college buildings, observatories, museums,
+music halls and private residences. These were not like pictures or
+views; but the structures themselves, in full perspective and in all the
+richness of their coloring, seemed to stand before us. Trees waving in
+the breeze, people and carriages passing in the streets and occasionally
+a movement at a window or door, all aided the illusion and made it
+difficult to realize that we were not in the midst of the scenes we were
+gazing upon.
+
+Thorwald or Zenith told us the name or purpose of each building as it
+appeared, and the novel exhibition closed with the presentation of a
+large and splendid playhouse.
+
+As this was announced I involuntarily exclaimed:
+
+"So you have kept the theater, have you? Some good people on the earth
+think the drama is demoralizing."
+
+"That," said Zenith, "is probably because you have allowed it to become
+debased. We read in our histories of such a period here. Indeed, for
+a long time both the play and the opera were abolished, our advancing
+civilization having given them up under the impression that the good
+in them was overbalanced by the evil. But when the era of a more noble
+personal character had come the drama was revived, and now is not only a
+source of innocent pleasure but is also a decided help to our growth.
+
+"I recognize the house we are now looking at. It is in quite a distant
+city, and I see Thorwald has purposely chosen it because at this moment
+an able company is presenting there one of our most popular plays. Would
+you like to hear some of it?"
+
+No sooner were these words uttered than we saw Thorwald make a slight
+movement of the switch, and, lo! the scene was changed to the interior
+of the building, and there before us was the Martian theater in full
+play. We sat as it were in the dress circle, with the orchestra and
+stage in our front. All was beauty and life around us, and the richness
+and harmonious coloring of the whole interior were simply beyond
+description. The play was going on in a quiet, dignified manner and
+every word and gesture were characterized with the greatest naturalness.
+It struck the doctor and me as a peculiar feature that, while we could
+hear everything that was said on the stage and even the rustle of
+the people around us, we ourselves could talk and laugh without being
+noticed. This effect was produced by an ingenious attachment to the
+telephone, and the doctor was moved to remark:
+
+"This is an altogether comfortable and satisfactory situation."
+
+"Yes," added Zenith, "we think it is almost as good as being actually
+present in the theater."
+
+We assured her it was better, in our opinion, and then we thanked them
+both for the pleasure they had given us. But we began to think their
+resources for entertaining their friends would never be exhausted when
+Thorwald told us he would, at some future time, show us specimens of
+their paintings, sculpture, fine porcelain, elegant furniture, and many
+other works of art.
+
+One morning, a few days later, as we were rising from breakfast,
+Thorwald said:
+
+"Well, my friends, I suppose you will go to church with us to-day?"
+
+"To church?" asked we in one breath.
+
+"Yes, this is Sunday."
+
+"Oh, is it?" I said. "I began to think you didn't have Sunday here. It
+is now eight days since our return from the moon, and this is the first
+we have heard of it."
+
+"Let me see," said Thorwald, "I believe this is the first Sunday we have
+spent at home since you came to us."
+
+"Then how long is your week?"
+
+"Ten days."
+
+"That accounts for our misunderstanding," I said, "for our Sunday comes
+every seventh day."
+
+"That is an odd number," returned Thorwald. "With us the week is the
+basis of our decimal method of reckoning. We have one hundred minutes in
+an hour and ten hours in a day."
+
+Of course we were ready to go to church, and when we were on the way,
+seated in a comfortable carriage, the doctor said to Thorwald:
+
+"If for any reason you do not care to go out on Sunday, I suppose you
+can all repair to your music room, turn that little switch, and listen
+to the best preacher and the best church music in the land. But do not
+imagine by that remark that we have any fault to find with this method
+of going to church. For my part, I think I prefer it."
+
+"I perceive," answered Thorwald, "that you have a good idea of the
+capabilities of the telephone, but I shall have to correct you in this
+case. Our instruments are not connected with any of the churches. But
+to-morrow we can get, by asking through the telephone, phonograph rolls
+of any sermons that are delivered to-day. If we preferred we could get
+them in print, but the phonograph is pleasanter. This instrument is
+now so perfect that the imitation of the speaker's words and tones is
+faultless. The works of all our authors can be obtained in this form,
+and our libraries consist in great part of phonograph rolls. Even the
+poets of former generations speak to us, and the voice of the singer
+adds its charm to the song.
+
+"But you will want to ask me why we do not extend the use of the
+telephone to the churches. We learned long ago that it is a good thing
+for people to come together for worship and that nothing will take the
+place of it. We do not go for an intellectual treat nor to enjoy the
+music, but only for worship, and we try to keep our forms simple yet
+dignified and as fitting as possible in all ways. Some day I must tell
+you through what difficulties we have passed in church ceremonies and
+church government."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXV.
+
+AN UNSATISFACTORY LOVER.
+
+
+It was delightful to live in the same world with Mona, not for me only
+but for every one who knew her. No one could help loving her; there was
+simply nothing else to do. Others did not make as much show of their
+affection as I did, perhaps because no one else was selfish enough
+to claim the same personal rights in her, but I found every new
+acquaintance she made succumbed to the power of her many charms. The
+secret of this general homage was her own loving nature, which just
+worked itself out spontaneously, but the more her love was shed abroad
+the more she retained for new-comers. At first my naturally jealous
+disposition continued to give me long hours of anguish, but I happily
+was able to overcome this to a great extent as I became better
+acquainted with her marvelous spirit.
+
+Although I was at that time too much under the spell of this fair
+creature to form an unprejudiced judgment of her, I have since then
+attempted something of the kind, in comparing her in my mind with
+Antonia and others whom we met in Mars. Let me say that the Martians are
+not a perfect race. With our undeveloped spiritual natures we could not,
+during our entire visit, see any imperfections in them; but, as will be
+seen further on in this narrative, our good friends Thorwald and Zenith,
+under whose instructions kind fortune had placed us, were particular
+to tell us that their race had reached only an advanced state of
+civilization, to which the earth might one day attain, and that
+perfection was still a dream of the future. Taking Antonia, then, as
+a representative of her kind, I can see that she had a solidly formed
+character. She was what she was, not because she could not help it but
+because she herself willed it. That is, when she might have done wrong
+she chose to do right. Her connection with temptation was not entirely
+through her remote ancestors, whose sins filled such a large page in
+their history, but she herself had felt drawings toward evil. Yet so
+slightly had she yielded, and so strongly had her right years of living
+buttressed her against all kinds of wrong, that she, as well as all of
+her race whom we saw, appeared to us about perfect. Theoretically she
+might transgress, but practically it was all but impossible. Hers, then,
+was a truly noble character, and when she gave her love to Foedric he
+had good reason to be proud of the gift. Nor did she defraud others of
+their due, but her heart was open to every proper call.
+
+Such was Antonia, one whom we could in some degree appreciate, although
+so far above us. But how could we understand a being like Mona, who told
+us, and we saw no reason to disbelieve her, that she had never known
+what it was to do wrong? She seemed as incapable of evil as the birds of
+the air, or, to make the comparison still stronger, as a beautiful rose.
+She was guileless by nature, and goodness and truth were as much a part
+of her as her beauty was. She was made to be a joy and comfort to every
+creature brought within the circle of her influence, and she could no
+more help loving than the sun can help shining. All who came near her
+received a share of her gracious beams.
+
+She was unselfish and full of sympathy and every right feeling, not
+because she had seen the evils of selfishness and meanness, but because
+these latter qualities were utterly unknown to her. Her high character
+and perfectly correct life, therefore, were not the result of reason and
+choice, but were the instinctive manifestations of her pure nature.
+
+I do not undertake to say which of these two presented the higher type
+of womanhood, and I certainly entered into no such speculations about
+them at that time, but I never had any difficulty in deciding that
+Mona was the one I loved. I did not, of course, relish her fondness for
+others. In that respect I considered her nature altogether too ardent,
+but I found I must get accustomed to it, as she would not change.
+
+It made me quite despondent at times, fearing I could never lead her to
+feel any special liking for me. Then when she smiled upon me and sang so
+sweetly to me, I thought I ought to be happy though I had to share her
+heart with all the world. Still I did not relax my efforts to make my
+share larger.
+
+"Mona," I said, one day, "I wish you would ask me to do something real
+hard for you."
+
+"Why?" she asked.
+
+"So that I could show you how much I love you."
+
+"But you have already shown me," she said. "I cannot think of anything
+more difficult than you have done. Did you not keep up a firm belief
+that I would be found, even after the doctor and these wise men of Mars
+had lost all hope, and did you not, by your enthusiasm, prevail on them
+to enter on a difficult search for me on the moon? I have heard all
+about your deep concern for me and how you were affected by hearing
+singing which you thought was like mine. And now that I have been found,
+you are so watchful for my comfort and like to be so near me all the
+time, that I am sure I do not need any further proof of your strong
+attachment. But why do you pay me so much attention? Why do you not like
+to be with Antonia as much as with me?"
+
+"Because I do not love her as much as I do you."
+
+"Why do you love me so? Because I took you down to my quiet home and
+saved you from being blown off the top of the moon?"
+
+"No, the doctor and I are both grateful to you for that kindness, but
+gratitude isn't love."
+
+"I haven't done anything else for you," she said.
+
+"It isn't for anything you have done that I love you."
+
+"What then?"
+
+"Oh, I don't know. I suppose it is because I can't help it."
+
+"Oh, then you are becoming like me, for I can't help loving everybody."
+
+"I shall never be good enough for that," said I.
+
+"What is love, as you understand it?" asked Mona.
+
+"Love--love," I hesitated; "why, it is the feeling I have in my heart
+for you. Love is what kept hope alive when you were lost and gave me
+such joy when I heard your voice and knew we had found you. Love makes
+every task light that is done for you and every place where you are the
+brightest spot in the universe. Even this delightful world of Mars is
+more beautiful than ever because you are here. Love, if mutual, is
+a precious bond, uniting two hearts and making them beat in harmony.
+Cannot you and I be joined in heart, Mona?"
+
+"My dear friend," she replied, "I am very sorry I cannot share your
+feeling, but I do not understand such love as you have been trying to
+describe."
+
+"Then I fear you do not love me," I responded, with great sadness in my
+voice.
+
+"Oh, don't say that," she exclaimed. "Indeed I do love you. Now, how can
+I prove it to you? What is the opposite of love?"
+
+"Hatred; or, in such a case as this, indifference would be about as bad
+as anything."
+
+"Well, I don't know much about such things, but do I seem like a person
+who could hate you or be indifferent to you?"
+
+"No, Mona, you seem to be the most loving creature in all the worlds we
+have ever known, but--"
+
+"Oh, do not spoil that fine speech with a 'but.' I know what you want
+to say. You think I ought to love you more than anyone else, or in some
+different way. Now, that desire of yours is what I cannot understand.
+I love everybody alike because I know of no other sentiment. So it is a
+matter of course with me, and I do not feel obliged to tell people that
+I love them. You seem to make too much of it, coming to me everyday and
+telling me, over and over again, that you love me, just as if I doubted
+it. Why do you like to be with me so much? Do you think it is right to
+be so exclusive? You ought to favor the others with your company. As for
+me, I must say I prefer Foedric's society to yours, because he has so
+many interesting things to talk about, while you stick continually to
+one subject and give me little information even on that one. You know
+I am a new-comer here and eager to learn all I can. Then there's the
+doctor. I take more pleasure conversing with him than with you, for he
+seems to know more, or, at any rate, to be more able to tell me things
+I want to know about the earth. If the doctor were not here and you were
+the only one to judge from, I should be obliged to think the people of
+the earth a very curious race. Your companion, however, appears to be a
+man of considerable sense."
+
+Mona sang all this in her easy, natural way, being perfectly free from
+any intention of wounding my feelings, but the more innocent I believed
+her the more incapable I saw she was of entering into my feelings.
+I began to realize how, in loving everybody, she missed a certain
+enjoyment derived from a more selfish order of love. It then occurred
+to me that a world full of such people as Mona must have rather a
+monotonous time from our point of view, and I asked her if she could
+tell me about her race in general respecting the subject of our
+conversation.
+
+"Certainly," she replied, "I can tell you something from my own
+recollections, but more from our traditions."
+
+"Well, were the men of the moon all sensible, or were they all like me?"
+
+"Oh, I see you have a little sense as soon as you begin to talk in a new
+direction. In answer to your question, let me say that the stress you
+have put on our personal relations is something entirely new to me,
+and I do not see any use or advantage in it. This must be my excuse for
+speaking so plainly. I should not have spoken so had I not known, in
+spite of what I have said, that you had too much sense to be offended."
+
+"I thank you," I said. "Do not apologize for your words. I have taken
+them as a needed rebuke for my haste in appropriating you to myself.
+But I believe, Mona, that the time will come when you will know the
+happiness of loving one person so much that your love for all others
+will not be thought of in comparison. Happy will he be who, in that day,
+is able to prove the capacity of your great heart."
+
+"Then, in that day," she responded, "shall I prove myself to be the
+degenerate daughter of a noble race. No, my friend, we were not made of
+such stuff. We loved everybody, without question and without limit. We
+could do nothing else, and to love one more than another was therefore
+impossible."
+
+"Let me ask if everyone was worthy of being loved?"
+
+"Why, as to that, we were all alike. What do you think of me?"
+
+"You know what I think of you, Mona; or, if you do not, I will tell
+you."
+
+"Yes; you needn't tell me again. What I wanted to say is, that I am no
+better than the rest of my people were."
+
+"What a world it must have been then," I exclaimed, "and how fortunate
+that the earth did not discover it earlier. With such an example before
+us we should have been utterly discouraged."
+
+When Mona had left me at the close of this conversation, I proceeded to
+take stock of my sensations. I had certainly been seeing a new phase of
+Mona's character. Could I make such vigorous language consistent with my
+former conception of her? I answered yes to this question after studying
+it awhile, for I concluded that she was only just in giving me a lesson
+that I deserved. Her innocence was only the more evident, and that was
+the ground on which I built my faith in her. But now came the inquiry
+whether my love could withstand such a shock as it had received. I was
+no longer blind to the truth. Mona had no stronger affection for me than
+for her other friends, and it began to be doubtful if she ever would
+have, considering her peculiar education in affairs of the heart. If I
+continued to love her, it must be with the full knowledge that I had not
+as yet gained the slightest success in my effort to secure her for my
+own exclusive possession. My exuberant passion had received a serious
+shock, for I had been plainly told that it was making me appear
+ridiculous. Then, when there seemed to be danger that my love must grow
+cold under such treatment, I began to argue Mona's cause to myself, and
+I bade myself take comfort once more in the old thoughts. She was young
+and careless, besides being entirely new to our manner of wooing, and
+I had been too hasty in my approaches and no doubt tired her with my
+continuous solicitations. But then, on the other hand, I continued, the
+case seemed much more hopeless than before after such a plain rebuff,
+and if I had any self-respect I could not continue to pay my court where
+my honest love was made a matter of jest.
+
+These thoughts passed rapidly through my mind, and I cannot tell to what
+rash resolve they would have led me had not the music of Mona's laughing
+voice just then come floating in from another room. As usual, this was
+more than I could resist, and its immediate effect now was to drive
+out reason and to enthrone love once more. All my doubt and uncertainty
+vanished in a twinkling, my self-respect hid itself in a dark corner
+of my memory, and as I instinctively started to find the fair singer I
+realized again, with a feeling too strong for argument, that I was still
+very much in love.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVI.
+
+AN ENVIABLE CONDITION.
+
+
+Our life in this cultured home continued to be as pleasant as were these
+first days. There was always something new to show us or to tell us. We
+would walk out every day and often step into a carriage and take a
+long ride. Our friends were famous walkers but were considerate of
+our feebleness, and still our returning strength, added to the great
+buoyancy of our bodies on that smaller planet, soon gave us also
+remarkable walking powers.
+
+Sometimes the children would accompany us on an all-day excursion, and
+then the house would be left not only unlocked, but with the doors wide
+open perhaps. When we remarked on this, Zenith told us that if anyone
+happened along he would be at perfect liberty to go in and help himself
+to anything in the house. This was always understood, whether the people
+were at home or not, and one need not even go through the formality
+of asking, if he could see what he wanted. This referred not merely
+to bodily refreshment, of which one might be in need, but literally to
+everything the house contained; and the reason why there was any sort
+of comfort living under such conditions was, that the members of that
+society were all and severally of such ripe characters that it was well
+known one would not deprive another of anything he was using except for
+a reason which would be satisfactory to both.
+
+"If we could communicate with the people on the earth," said the doctor
+to me when we sat alone conversing about these things, "and tell them
+how the inhabitants here live, they would want to organize an expedition
+and start for Mars right away."
+
+"Yes, I think they would," I assented. "And yet, if what Thorwald says
+is true, the earth will one day be as good as Mars. Do you believe it?"
+
+"Well, the fact is," answered the doctor, "I am ready to believe almost
+anything now."
+
+"Oh, I wish Thorwald could hear you say that."
+
+"I should not object," he continued. "I am sure that some power, not
+comprehended by our science or philosophy, has operated here to bring
+these people to the condition in which we find them, and if the same
+kind forces are at work on the earth, let us hope they will do as much
+for us, no matter how much time it takes. If a belief in such a power is
+faith, then perhaps I am beginning to have a little faith.
+
+"I remember I used to hear our preachers in their public prayers ask God
+that every form of vice and crime might be banished from the earth, and
+that the time might come when there should be no more sin, but only love
+and beauty and happiness. I have heard such prayers a hundred times,
+and never thought much about them. But now I am forced to think, and
+it seems to me that these prayers would not be made continually unless
+there were a hope and expectation in the minds of religious people that
+they would some time be answered. It is not for me to assume that such a
+hope is unreasonable, drawn as it is from the book which so many believe
+is the word of God."
+
+I rejoiced to hear my friend talk in this way, but it seemed very odd
+that he should be preaching my own doctrine to me. I had had the same
+thoughts, and had been trying to find the right time to offer them to
+the doctor. I am sure I was thankful that he was coming to such views
+without a word from me, for he would probably be much more apt to hold
+to them.
+
+The foregoing conversation was in the evening, and the next morning we
+were all sitting comfortably in the music room, when Thorwald said:
+
+"The other day I began to give you some orderly account of our history,
+but you see how it has been broken into by the relation of different
+phases, in answer to your questions. It seems to me now that it will be
+more interesting to you if I continue in the same way and take up one
+subject at a time. And now that we have a little time before us, I wish
+you would suggest some point upon which you would like to have me talk;
+that is, if it is agreeable to you."
+
+To which the doctor replied:
+
+"I like your plan very much and I am sure we both have plenty of
+questions which will keep you supplied with topics. I have desired
+for some time to ask you about your industrial system. I can see how
+electricity has relieved you of the most arduous labor, but there must
+remain much disagreeable work, as we would call it, to be done with the
+hand. In our busy life there are a thousand such tasks, which I cannot
+conceive of being performed by machinery, many of them hard only
+because they are monotonous and awake no interest or enthusiasm in the
+performer. Men and women are continually wearing themselves out with
+such work. You must have abolished all that, if everybody here is
+comfortable and happy. I am very anxious to hear how it has been done."
+
+"In answering your question," Thorwald began, "let me say, first, that I
+presume we have learned to employ machines in a great many ways which to
+you would seem incomprehensible. The drudgery and much of the monotony
+of labor have been removed, as well as its severity. But still, as you
+surmise, there is plenty of work for all. Our higher civilization
+does not require less work than yours, but rather more and of greater
+variety. It is all done quietly, however, without friction or any of the
+unpleasant features of former times.
+
+"I suspect that the real secret of the change is in the elevation of
+individual character. This has done more to better our condition than
+electricity and all the material improvements and inventions of the
+age. You must believe me when I say that no sort of labor is considered
+disgraceful, and, further, that one occupation is just as honorable as
+another. The man who goes into the mine and superintends the machine
+which gathers the precious metal is esteemed as highly as he who,
+with an artist's brain and fingers, shapes it to its highest use. The
+carpenter who works with his hands in the building of the house can hold
+his head as high as the architect who has spent many years in learning
+how to create the design. Why not? Both are engaged on the same work,
+each one in his favorite, and so his best, way. Both are working,
+not for daily bread or other selfish end, but for the sake of doing
+something useful. The perfect content and satisfaction we all enjoy
+in our labor come partly from our abundant health and strength, and
+largely, also, from our entire freedom from anxiety in regard to the
+means of maintenance for ourselves and our families. In these respects
+we are all equally fortunate. We are absolutely unconcerned about what
+material things we shall have for ourselves or leave to our children."
+
+"Do you then all have equal pay for your work, and that so much that it
+places you above anxiety?" asked the doctor.
+
+"Yes," answered Thorwald, "we are all paid equally, because we are not
+paid at all. So, having no wages and owning no property, why should we
+be anxious? You know I have told you we can have for our use anything
+that is produced or made without even asking anybody for it. The mere
+fact that we need a thing makes it rightfully ours."
+
+"But what is the incentive to labor if you get nothing for it, and can
+live just as well without it?"
+
+"The incentive is in the love for our work and the consciousness that
+we are doing something to make someone happier and the world a little
+better. Let me give you an illustration, a personal one, if you will
+excuse me. A neighbor asks me to make him a plan for a house. He may be
+a writer of books or he may be a carriage maker, or what not, it makes
+not the slightest difference. I enjoy that kind of work and, having
+obtained his ideas in regard to a house, I do the best I can. I cannot
+conceive that I could do any better if I knew he would pay me for the
+work, as you say. In like manner he asks other neighbors to build his
+house for him, and he has no difficulty in finding enough men who enjoy
+that occupation as much as I do my part of the work, and the principle
+which governs them in their labor is as high as that which controls me."
+
+"Then," said the doctor, "I should think the poor man--I beg your
+pardon, I mean the hod-carrier--could have as grand a house as the
+architect himself."
+
+"I don't know what a hod-carrier is," replied Thorwald, "but I get your
+meaning, and you are quite right. As an example of just that state of
+things, I will tell you that the man who tends the digging machine in my
+garden lives in a larger and handsomer house than this one. Why not?
+He has a large family, and he and his wife are educated and refined
+people."
+
+"But with no physical wants to provide against, I should think some men
+would find existence easier not to work at all. According to your theory
+they could live in as good style as the toilers and have no one to call
+them to account."
+
+"No one but themselves. Every man is his own monitor, and he needs no
+other. He knows his duty, and he has that within him which keeps him up
+to it more effectually than any outside influence could. In regard to a
+man's not caring to work, we have been through all that, and we have now
+no such cases. We found out long ago that it is better to have some one
+stated employment and follow it. But this does not mean that the work
+becomes a burden. One can rest as often and as long as he pleases.
+There is no one to intimate in any way that he should be at work, as the
+question is left entirely to him. The moment that work ceases to be a
+necessity it becomes a pleasure and the most natural thing in the world.
+The multiplication of mechanical inventions has greatly reduced the
+volume of labor, so that there is really but little for each individual
+to do; and the truth is, there is never any lack of men. If anything,
+there is not enough work."
+
+"Your words," said the doctor, "reveal a remarkable condition of
+affairs, and I fear it will be many, many years before we can begin to
+think seriously of such a plan, so long as to make it almost hopeless;
+but there is one more question I would like to ask. With all this
+freedom of choice, how does it happen that all do not flock to the easy
+and pleasant occupations, and leave the disagreeable tasks undone?"
+
+To this Thorwald replied:
+
+"Let me ask you, Doctor, if you have not an answer to your question
+in your own industrial system. Do you not always find men to do every
+required work, no matter how hard and distasteful it may seem to you?
+I do not mean that the parallel is exact, but this seems to be governed
+now, as it has always been, by a dispensation of nature. We are born
+with different tastes and inclinations. Each one chooses his own
+occupation, and it comes to pass providentially, just as it did in the
+olden time, that all do not choose alike."
+
+"Are all equally well educated?"
+
+"No, but all have an equal opportunity. Everyone is given a broad
+foundation of general information. The mind and hand are both trained
+and prepared to do good work, and then the choice of occupation is made
+and the special education begins. But one who has chosen some kind
+of manual labor as his vocation very often takes up literary or other
+professional work in addition, and everybody has some kind of study on
+hand, by which the mind is kept employed. There is no uneducated class
+among us."
+
+"Before you reached such nobility of character," said the doctor, "that
+panacea for so many ills, I suppose you had troubles enough. You have
+already intimated as much to us. I wonder if it would not help us to
+appreciate better your present condition if you should tell us briefly
+of your experiences in solving so happily some of the problems of your
+career. I am thinking now more especially of the difficulties of your
+social and industrial reformation."
+
+"I will attempt something of the kind," Thorwald replied, "if you are
+sure I shall not weary you. Remember to prompt me if I do not follow the
+lines of most interest to you.
+
+"If you should prefer to read you would find the facts you want
+fully set forth in our histories. The records are especially full
+and exhaustive on the subjects you have mentioned, for the important
+changes, or, at least, the changes whose story will be most instructive
+to you, came in a time of great intellectual activity. Of the earlier
+days the history is unfortunately less complete, and still further back
+the records become uncertain and many are merely legendary.
+
+"Let us begin at a time when civilization was confined to a small
+portion of the surface of our planet. Society was then crude and
+unformed. It was a rude, selfish age. But the germ of better things was
+there, for the gospel of Christ had been planted in the world and was
+sure to spring into life when its time should come. But meanwhile our
+evil nature was strong and choked the good seed, and made advancement
+slow and uncertain. Power was divided among many rulers who were
+despots, whose principal occupation was war. The people were valued
+merely for their fighting qualities and enjoyed only such rights and
+privileges as their cruel masters allowed them. Being slaves themselves,
+they held in a still more bitter slavery every prisoner captured in war.
+
+"Life was mere animal existence for most of the race, without enjoyment
+for the present or hope for the future. Education being denied them,
+there was no mental stimulus to compensate for physical wretchedness,
+and even their meager religious privileges were accompanied with so many
+superstitious and unnatural rites that life was relieved of but a little
+of its burden.
+
+"Gradually power was concentrated in the hands of a few autocrats,
+nations were consolidated, and war began to be a science. Then some
+attention was paid to the comfort of the people for the purpose of
+making them better soldiers. Soon it was found that intelligence was the
+best weapon a man could carry, and so education, in a very stinted form,
+was encouraged. This was a fatal blunder on the part of the rulers, for
+as soon as the mind was unfettered the shackles began to fall from the
+body, and the days of absolutism were numbered. The spirit of knowledge,
+once released from its imprisonment, became a dominant power in the
+world, and as time went on the people demanded a voice in the management
+of affairs. In this way came constitutional government, which for a
+long time held sway, and under which there came immense benefits to all.
+Religion and learning flourished, science and art blessed the race with
+their bounties, and the world began to be a brighter and better place to
+live in, comparing the times with the ages of ignorance and cruelty that
+went before.
+
+"And now the stream of liberty broadened, and before long became a flood
+that swept away thrones and scepters. Personal government ceased, and
+the people became their own political masters. The right of suffrage
+was extended and slavery was abolished, while commerce and the spirit of
+adventure carried civilization to many parts of the world. Then appeared
+a swarm of mechanical inventions to lighten the labor of mankind,
+electricity came with its strong arm and great promise, and easier and
+swifter transportation by land and sea brought the nations and peoples
+together to the mutual advantage of all.
+
+"Education, once the possession of the rich and powerful only, now shed
+its benign influence over the whole people. Whereas, in the early
+times, learning had caused the downfall of despotic power, it was
+now considered a principal safeguard of good government, and made
+compulsory. Wealth was accumulated, luxuries multiplied, and great
+strides were taken in the material welfare of both nations and
+individuals. It was an age of intense activity. So rapidly did events
+follow each other, and such possibilities were anticipated, that
+enthusiasts, whose heads were turned in the mad whirl, prophesied the
+immediate opening of the millennium.
+
+"Judged by all the race had previously known of freedom, of prosperity,
+and of happiness, it was a grand age, and that generation might well be
+proud of their timely birth. But, looked at from our present standpoint,
+we can see it was still a day of sadness and sin. We understand, what
+it was more difficult for them to realize, that the revival of pure
+religion, awakening the conscience of mankind, had brought about all
+that was good in their condition, while many evil tendencies had only
+been exaggerated by their material prosperity. So it was still a
+very imperfect world. Political freedom they had, but there was no
+emancipation from the powerful thraldom of selfishness. That spirit held
+universal sway, governing not only individual action but also the policy
+of nations.
+
+"One of the highest sentiments known to the times, and some writers
+placed it even above religion, was love of country. Impassioned oratory
+was fond of declaring that loyalty to one's native land was the loftiest
+emotion the heart could feel, and no voice was found to rebuke the
+utterance."
+
+I was a little shocked to hear Thorwald, in his earnest manner, give
+expression to these words, as though he looked upon such views in a very
+serious light. I was therefore bold enough to interrupt him with:
+
+"Excuse me, Thorwald, but would not these orators, when their attention
+was called to their extreme language, acknowledge that love to God was a
+still higher sentiment?"
+
+"Perhaps they would, for with all the selfishness of the period there
+was a deep-seated belief in a divine being. But even so, I still would
+not allow them to be right."
+
+"Why," I asked, "is there more than one motive higher than patriotism?"
+
+"Yes, love is higher," answered Thorwald. "Let me explain. What did
+love of country mean? At first one's country was a single family, then
+a tribe, and later a city, when the measure of one's patriotism was the
+measure also of his hatred for everything foreign. In time a state was
+formed from many cities and towns, and its citizens were taught to look
+on all other states as enemies. Then these states that had been fighting
+each other consolidated into a nation, made up, perhaps, of different
+races and languages. By this time patriotism became a lofty theme, but
+it was the same spirit essentially as that which prompts the members of
+two savage tribes to fight to the death through a blind and unreasoning
+devotion to their leaders. So do you not think that love to all, which
+can only come from a generous heart, is more to be praised than love
+to a part, which necessitates enmity to all the rest? I should think
+it would have puzzled the people of that age sometimes to tell of what
+their country really consisted. Was their highest allegiance due to
+their city, or their county, or their state, or their nation?
+
+"To what did this immoderate love of country lead? To a passion
+for aggrandizement at the expense of others, and what was this but
+selfishness with a gloss so bright as to make it look like a virtue? It
+led to the strangling of conscience in national affairs, so as to make
+wrong seem right, and, more than that, to persistence in a course when
+it was well known to be wrong. It taught false ideas of honor and made
+the world one grand dueling field, where the energy of nations was spent
+in watching for insults from their neighbors, and where the quick blow
+followed every real or fancied offense.
+
+"Do not imagine, by what I have said, that I would have advised these
+people to love their country less. On the contrary, I should tell them
+to love it so much that they could not see it do wrong; to love it so
+much that they should have no room in their hearts for bitterness toward
+others; so much that they should strive to have it lead the world in a
+march toward universal brotherhood. Love for one's neighbor should not
+stop at state or national boundaries. Love should know neither caste
+nor country, but should take in the world, and, I might add for your
+benefit, other worlds if necessary. Love is a condition of the heart,
+something within, not without, the man, and when fully developed reaches
+out to everything that God has made."
+
+"It seems to me, Thorwald," I ventured to say, "that these sentiments,
+which I can see are admirable, belong to your present high development,
+while we of the earth have reached only about the condition of the
+people whose traits you have been describing."
+
+"Then," resumed Thorwald, "you can perhaps understand another evil of
+those times. It did not grow directly out of love for country, but that
+too much lauded sentiment prevented the people from seeing its full
+enormity. This was the practice of attempting by law to protect the
+inhabitants of one country by shutting out the goods of all others.
+This prohibition included both the manufactured articles and natural
+products, and the means adopted was the placing of a high duty
+on imports. If the political leaders of a people could succeed in
+convincing them that such a course would raise wages, increase the
+opportunities for accumulating money, and make them in general more
+prosperous, then it was forthwith adopted, entirely without regard to
+the effect it might have on the rest of the world. It is not at all
+plain to be seen, from reading the history of those times, that the
+happiest results always followed the passage of these laws, but the
+experiment was tried whenever a majority felt that there was a fair
+expectation of such benefits. The only question considered was whether
+it would be good policy for their particular country. And if one result
+of this selfish legislation was the closing of mills and the loss of
+employment to thousands of workmen in some other part of the world,
+these facts were paraded in the public prints as though they were
+matter for rejoicing. Men were yet to learn that the maxim which the
+politicians were fond of quoting, 'the greatest good to the greatest
+number,' should have a world-wide application to give it any meaning at
+all."
+
+While my prejudices were receiving another shock, I knew the doctor was
+really enjoying this part of Thorwald's talk. So, in order to draw him
+out, I said to him, as Thorwald paused:
+
+"Doctor, I think our friend must belong to your party."
+
+"I should rather belong to his party," replied the doctor.
+
+"Thank you," said Thorwald. "That is a compliment which I appreciate;
+and now I think I have talked long enough for one sitting. Let us get
+some lunch, and then go out for a good walk."
+
+Thorwald must have seen that the doctor's mood was softening, but he
+probably thought it wise not to speak more directly to him at present.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVII.
+
+THE CHILDREN'S DAY.
+
+
+As it was a holiday, the children accompanied us on our walk, and we
+had further opportunity of observing the easy, natural relations
+which existed between them and their parents. There was neither undue
+familiarity nor too much restraint. There was respect as well as
+affection on both sides, and a scrupulous concern for each other's
+feelings. Evidently the children had all the rights they could
+appropriate to their advantage, while there was no abrogation of the
+privileges or the duties of the parents.
+
+At a convenient time during the afternoon I spoke to Zenith about this
+happy condition of family affairs, and I was greatly enlightened and not
+a little amused by her reply.
+
+"It was not always so," she said. "One of the sad chapters of our
+history tells us of an unfortunate episode in the family life. In the
+early days the father had complete control over his household, even the
+lives of its members being at his disposal. But as civilization advanced
+the law stepped in and protected the dependent ones from too harsh
+punishment and from neglect. In time sympathy for the weak and
+unprotected made all corporal punishment unpopular, both at home and
+at school, and soon discipline of every kind was much weakened. There
+appeared to be a growing impression on the part of the elders that there
+could not be any evil in the child's nature, and so if he were allowed
+to grow up without any particular training he would not go far out of
+the way. It seemed to be overlooked that this was something new in the
+history of the race, that the experiment had never been tried of giving
+the youth their own way, from the cradle up. It had been taught from
+very early times that the child, for its own future welfare, should
+receive correction, and the teaching had never before been departed
+from. The parents might just as well have put the reins of family
+government in the hands of the children at once, for this is what it
+came to in the end. The children, released from all restraint, lost
+first their respect for their elders, and then all regard for their
+feelings. Instead of love there grew up a careless indifference, and in
+place of that tender thoughtfulness so necessary to happiness in this
+relation, parents began to receive harsh and even cruel treatment. As
+we look back upon it now, it seems strange that the result was not
+anticipated, and the trend of events changed by a decided stand against
+such an unnatural course. But the approach to a crisis was insidious
+and, as I have said, history furnished no parallel from which to draw a
+warning.
+
+"Two things made it the worst time in the world for parents to become
+lax in their discipline. One was the growing sentiment in favor of
+independence which was permeating all classes of society, and the other
+the great revival of learning among the people. Given a large class
+of persons highly educated and taught to prize personal liberty above
+everything else, and still without the discretion that comes only with
+years, and what could be expected of them when left with no strong hand
+to guide them? The methods of education improved so rapidly, and there
+were such constantly increasing opportunities for obtaining knowledge,
+that there was some excuse for the children in getting the idea that
+they knew more than their fathers and mothers. This belief would not
+under any circumstances improve their manners, and at this time it only
+caused them to despise still more those who seemed willing to withdraw
+all claim to authority over them. Precocity, which had never been
+a popular trait, came to the front with no modesty to relieve its
+disagreeable character.
+
+"But the conduct of the youth of both sexes was not confined to the
+exhibition of bad manners, nor to the mere passive indulgence of an
+undutiful spirit. These led gradually to a more serious phase of the
+rebellion, the inauguration of a series of petty annoyances, to be
+followed, naturally, by acts of downright injustice and cruelty. It
+seemed as if the old years of oppression to which, in a ruder age, the
+children had been subjected, were about to be repeated, with the parents
+for the victims. You must not suppose that these vast changes came about
+in the course of one generation. Just as a sentiment in favor of liberty
+will be perpetuated in a people from one generation to another, and
+increase with the lapse of years, so this feeling of independence
+of parental control and this decadence of natural affection were
+transmitted from one set of children to the next, and matters grew from
+bad to worse.
+
+"At length the behavior of the young people became so notoriously bad
+that the matter had to be taken out of the heretofore sacred precincts
+of home and treated in a public manner. The press tried to work a
+reformation by ridicule and threats, and when this was seen to have no
+effect the legislatures took up the subject, and actually passed laws
+'for the relief and protection of oppressed parents,' and 'for the
+reestablishment of rightful authority in the home.' These bold measures
+so angered the children that they declared they would not submit to such
+insults, but would take the matter of making laws, as well as all other
+branches of public business, into their own hands. They started their
+own organs, which made such silly declarations as this: 'We are young,
+but in all other respects we are superior to our elders. We have more
+intelligence, more spirit and courage, we outnumber them two to one,
+and, what is better than all the rest, we hold them already in our
+power. So why should we not use that power, and go forward and destroy
+every vestige of their authority? Let them work and earn our support,
+and we will do the rest.'"
+
+"And now," asked Zenith, "how do you think the affair came out?"
+
+"I confess," I answered, "that I shall have to give it up."
+
+"Well," she continued, "the problem was solved, as so many others in our
+career have been, when the needed lesson had been learned, without our
+being subjected to the extremely dire results which seemed so imminent;
+and I am happy to be able to tell you that relief came through the
+efforts of one of my own sex. Just before the last ounce was added
+to the weight of foolishness and error which was to turn the world
+completely over, a girl made her appearance with sense enough to call a
+halt. She happened to be editing one of the fiery journals of her class,
+when it struck her one day that they were carrying the thing too far.
+She had the courage to say so, and got roundly abused for it. She
+persisted, obtained adherents and helpers, and soon a decided reaction
+set in. Like a house of cards, which a breath will destroy, the unstable
+structure the children had built fell to the ground, never to be
+restored.
+
+"The lesson was not forgotten, and the experience, which appears
+laughable now, has been of great benefit to us at different times since.
+But the broadening of our minds and the general improvement in our
+character have long ago placed us beyond the danger of a recurrence of
+such events. Compared to our present state those were the days of our
+infancy."
+
+As Zenith closed I told her I had enjoyed her story, and that I hoped
+the earth would not require such a lesson.
+
+"I trust not," said Zenith.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVIII.
+
+BUSINESS ETHICS.
+
+
+The next day the doctor and I took the first opportunity to tell
+Thorwald that we were anxious to have him proceed with his narrative.
+
+"Yes," he said, "I shall be glad to do so, for I had not reached the
+important part when our sitting broke up yesterday.
+
+"I was describing to you a remarkable era in our career, and one of you
+mentioned the fact that the present condition of your race corresponded
+in some particulars with that age on Mars. If you shall discover further
+points of likeness as I continue, it will add a peculiar interest to my
+story.
+
+"There is a difference of opinion among our historians in regard to
+those times. Some believe that the whole world was corrupt, that it was
+an age of material development only, and that, if there were any good
+impulses at all, they were so smothered with selfishness as to be of no
+account. But these writers lived long ago, and were themselves more or
+less under the shadow of that epoch. I strongly hold to the views of the
+great majority of our scholars, who tell us that, while there was too
+much evil of all kinds, there was also much good, and many believers in
+a final happy issue out of all the troubles of the time.
+
+"In a society so entirely given up to the pursuit of wealth and worldly
+advantage of every sort, those who were trying to hold up the standard
+of righteousness and to alleviate the lot of their fellow beings should
+be remembered with gratitude. Among the multitude of inventions were
+many that were calculated to relieve the laborer of his severest tasks,
+to mitigate suffering, to ward off disease, and to lighten the load of
+mankind in various ways. Large sums of money were given for hospitals,
+charitable institutions, and colleges, and for other kinds of
+philanthropic work, while private benevolences were not uncommon. There
+was prosperity, too, of a certain kind, and some people were happy, or
+thought themselves so. In the records of that as of every period of our
+history, it is possible to find rays of light if we search for them, and
+I tell you these things in order that you may get a fair understanding
+of the situation, for in what follows you will see something of the
+other side.
+
+ "I think I shall not err if I say that the gigantic evil of the times,
+that from which others sprang, was the inordinate love of money. Even
+political power, by which the opportunity was obtained of doing public
+service, was too often sought merely for the better chance one had of
+making money, as the saying was. In the revolt against aristocratic
+government, the tendency in our race of going from one extreme to the
+other was again shown, and universal suffrage was adopted. This would
+have been wise if intelligence and honesty had also been universal. But
+the result proved it to be an exceedingly bad policy, for it created
+a large class of voters who held the high privilege of citizenship so
+meanly, and were themselves so venal, that they would even sell their
+votes to the highest bidder. This, supplemented by the immorality of
+some of the intelligent citizens, made politics corrupt and the name of
+politician too often a by-word.
+
+"In doing business, by which was meant buying and selling and
+manufacturing, also financial dealings and commerce, the passion
+for money-getting was particularly prominent. An astonishingly small
+percentage of those that went into business, as they said, made a
+success, if we except the large manufacturers, but in spite of that
+it was a popular way of earning a livelihood. One thing that made it
+popular was the fact that there was always more or less speculation
+in it. The haste to get rich made men too careless of the rights of
+others."
+
+"Do you mean that all business was conducted dishonestly?" I asked.
+
+"No," answered Thorwald, "not as men looked at it then. There was a
+great deal of downright knavery in business, but there was another class
+who satisfied their consciences by being as honest as they could. The
+thoughtful ones knew the system was wrong but felt themselves utterly
+unable to replace it by a better one, and feeling no responsibility for
+it, they were satisfied to smother their sensibilities and drift along.
+They had their living to make, and, though they were not making it in an
+ideal way, they did not know that any other kind of work would be more
+satisfactory to their uneasy consciences."
+
+"Excuse me, Thorwald," I said; "I am dull. What was there wrong in their
+manner of doing business?"
+
+"Can you see nothing wrong," he answered, "in a system where one man's
+fortune was built on the ruins of another's, or perhaps a score of
+others, or where a business was started and increased solely by drawing
+from another one already established?"
+
+"Why," said I, "that is competition, which they no doubt thought better
+than monopoly. I can imagine that they argued that a man's first duty
+was to himself and his family, that one had a right to go into any
+legitimate business, and that others must take care of themselves. The
+evil, if there was any, they probably felt was incident to the nature of
+business and could not be helped. I would like to ask how society could
+exist with any other business rules."
+
+As I closed it struck me that I had spoken pretty fast and without much
+discretion, and the impression was not removed as Thorwald answered with
+dignity:
+
+"I am telling you the state of things on this planet thousands of years
+ago, and it is a sufficient answer to your question to say that society
+at the present day is not governed on any such principles; still, we
+seem to exist. It was a favorite saying in those days that 'a man must
+live,' and one that was used as an argument or excuse for questionable
+practices. The premise was wrong; it was not necessary to live: death
+would have been far better for the world and for the individual than
+a dishonorable life. So with society at large; better a change in the
+social structure, caused by an awakened conscience, than a state of
+peace founded on wrong principles. Our history proves that no particular
+plan of society is necessary to the world and that no order based
+on selfishness or injustice can long endure. But do not imagine such
+changes were easy or swift in accomplishment. They came, not by
+violence nor by the device of crafty men, but only through the universal
+betterment of the race, whereby a state of things that had been
+considered good enough, and then endured as the best attainable, became
+at last positively wrong and was slowly pushed aside by a growing sense
+of right.
+
+"To return to your first question, as to what there was wrong in their
+way of doing business, I want to say with emphasis that the essence of
+the wrong was in an undue regard for self and an almost total disregard
+for the interests of others. There were exceptions to the rule, notably
+in the direction of charity and philanthropy and in religious work, but
+I am speaking of the mass of the business community. It was every man
+singly against all the rest of the world. No man was his brother's
+keeper. If one did not look out for himself, that was the end of it;
+there was no one else to do it."
+
+"But the system itself made men selfish," I ventured to say.
+
+"To be sure it did," he replied. "But why did they not then abolish the
+system before it had brought upon them its long train of evils? It had
+to go at last."
+
+"But," I asked again, "was not competition a good thing for the large
+number of people not directly engaged in business? Did it not keep down
+the prices on all kinds of commodities?"
+
+"Certainly not in the main. It increased prices, because it increased
+the cost of everything. But let us suppose a case where it had the
+effect you suggest. Could a man with a heart wear a coat, for example,
+with any pleasure, if he knew that rivalry between the manufacturers had
+forced the people who made the garment to accept starvation wages? And
+this was done, not from humanitarian motives, to furnish the poor with
+cheap clothing, but for the purpose of getting more business and so of
+making more money."
+
+I could hardly resist the temptation at this point of asking Thorwald
+if he had not been reading up on the current history of the earth, but I
+knew well enough that was not possible, for we had brought no books with
+us. And then I did not care to tell Thorwald just yet how near he
+was coming to our experience. But I could not endure having the props
+knocked from under our social structure without another effort to save
+it. So I said:
+
+"But were not the great majority of business men honest, and were not
+these instances that you have cited extreme cases?"
+
+"They were the natural results of a bad system. A great many men were
+as honest as their environment would permit, and they tried to convince
+themselves that they were not responsible for the environment."
+
+"Were they?" I asked eagerly.
+
+"When they at last discovered that they were, then began a radical
+change. I am not exaggerating the evils of the times. I am merely
+setting them forth to show you how our race has improved with its
+maturity. If my purpose required it, I could detail many good things in
+the life of that people. One bright point in their character, to which I
+just now referred, I will illustrate. My boy, who is also my student
+in drawing, will never be able to make a straight line until he can
+see that the line he has already made is not straight. His improvement
+depends upon more than a steady hand. So with this people. Deep down in
+their being, planted by a divine hand, were the instinct of truth
+and the principle of growth, and when, in the natural course of their
+development, they came to realize how unworthy they were of their better
+nature, they set about the work of improvement.
+
+"But they came to that knowledge through many sad experiences. I have
+not begun to tell you the number and extent of the evils they endured.
+
+"The desire for money affected all classes. The general prosperity had
+bettered the condition of the wage-earners, creating many artificial
+wants which could not be satisfied without good pay. Hence arose a
+natural and constant effort to obtain higher wages, while competition
+among the employers operated just as constantly to keep them down, and
+the result was a sharp and increasing antagonism between capital and
+labor. The general public shared in the blame for this state of things
+by reason of the almost universal demand for cheap goods.
+
+"While the introduction of machinery was a real advance, whose benefits
+we are reaping to this day, other conditions had not become adjusted
+to it at the time of which we are speaking, so that there was often a
+surplus of workmen, especially in the lower grades of labor. This had
+a tendency to reduce wages, of course; and the want of employment,
+improvidence in the use of small wages, intemperance and other
+immoralities, ignorance and misfortune, all combined to keep part of the
+people in poverty. On the other hand, it was a time of great wealth and
+luxurious living, and these two classes, so far apart in their manner of
+life but often so near each other in all their selfish aims, seemed to
+have a strong mutual attraction, for they were always found together,
+crowding upon each other in every large city.
+
+"One of the most difficult things for us of the present day to imagine
+is, how persons of refinement and sensibility, living in comfort and
+without a care, could take any pleasure in life when they knew that
+within a stone's throw of their doors were human beings who, very often
+through no fault of their own, were so destitute that a crust would
+relieve their want, or so friendless that a kind word would make them
+shed tears of joy. Oh! I cannot comprehend it, and yet the record tells
+us there were cases of just that nature, where such people, without
+lifting a finger to alleviate the distress, actually laughed and were
+happy. Happy! What could they know of happiness? The word must have
+changed its meaning wonderfully, if we think of what it signifies
+to-day."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIX.
+
+THE INDUSTRIAL PROBLEM.
+
+
+Thorwald continued as follows:
+
+"The unpleasant relations existing between the employers and the
+employees created a host of troubles. It was an unreasonable feeling,
+because the interests of the two classes were identical. But as capital
+was consolidated and great corporations were formed for extensive
+operations in transportation and manufacturing, the relation between the
+two became very impersonal and difficult to control. In order to protect
+their interests the wage-earners organized into unions, brotherhoods,
+etc., almost every trade and calling having its own organization.
+
+"When these associations were first formed much stress was laid upon
+their incidental benefits, such as assistance in time of sickness,
+care of the families of deceased members, the holding of meetings
+for discussion and mutual improvement, and the establishment of
+reading-rooms and libraries. These commendable objects would have been
+a sufficient excuse for the existence of these bodies, and other
+legitimate ends might have been sought, but the labor unions did not
+stop there. They instituted and set in motion the powerful machinery
+of the strike, as it was called, making it effective by binding their
+members, under severe penalties, to stop work when they were ordered
+to do so by their leaders. They also practiced the severest measures
+of intimidation upon non-union men, to prevent them from getting
+employment.
+
+"Thus the trades-unions, too often governed by incompetent men, became
+a mighty power for evil. Strikes and lockouts were common, and were
+followed by loss of wages and consequent suffering, while the bitterness
+of feeling between the two classes constantly increased. To meet the
+rising power of the labor organizations, the employers felt obliged to
+form combinations among themselves and sometimes also to employ bodies
+of armed men to protect their property. Then, when a strike came,
+conflicts would follow so serious that appeal had to be made to the last
+resort, the military arm of the nation. Here another evil threatened,
+for the individual soldiers would sometimes prove to be in deep sympathy
+with the workmen who were making the trouble. At such crises, also,
+there would appear on the scene the anarchist, who wanted to overthrow
+society at once in the hope of bringing himself out nearer the top, and
+who was kept comparatively harmless in quiet times.
+
+"You can imagine something of the disorder and apprehension caused
+by these troubles. No contract for work could be made without the
+stipulation that its fulfillment must depend upon freedom from strikes
+in that particular trade, and no man could start on a journey with any
+certainty that he would be allowed to finish it in peace and at the
+appointed time.
+
+"To decide how these evils should be remedied proved to be one of the
+greatest problems ever presented to the people of that age.
+
+"Political sages had long before promulgated the doctrine upon which
+society was governed, that every man had a natural right to life,
+liberty, and his own method of pursuing happiness. Now, both sides
+in the conflict claimed to be following closely the spirit of this
+fundamental doctrine. The workingmen declared that they had a perfect
+right to organize and to induce all their number to join the unions.
+They said the individual relation between them and the employers had had
+its day and that experience was proving to them that every concession
+and privilege they hoped to get must come through their associations,
+working through the medium of an agent or committee. As independent
+citizens they could not obey laws and regulations in the making of which
+they had no voice, and their love of personal liberty would not allow
+them to accept the wages and hours of service which their employers
+might, without asking their consent, choose to prescribe. In case of
+disagreement they asserted their right to stop the whole business, at
+whatever loss to the employers or inconvenience to the public, and to
+prevent, if possible, new men from taking their places.
+
+"On the other hand, the employers, while not denying to the workmen the
+right to form associations for legitimate purposes, insisted that this
+right was being abused. They claimed that they should be allowed to hire
+whom they pleased and dismiss incompetent men when it was best for their
+business, without regard to their membership or non-membership in a
+union.
+
+"As time went on the trouble increased and society was fast forming
+itself into classes with opposing aims and mutual dislike. The time
+had been when a workman, by skill and diligence, could rise above his
+station and become a large proprietor himself. But with the new order
+this was hardly possible, and civilization, in this respect, seemed to
+be retrogressing.
+
+"You may wonder why the lawmakers did not correct the evil at once, but
+the fact was that the legislatures were made up of representatives from
+the two classes, and so were undecided as to what remedies to apply.
+It was proposed by some to enact a law preventing a man from selling
+himself into slavery, or, in other words, from giving up his liberty
+of action into the keeping of others, a thing which had caused much
+suffering. In every strike a large part of the men, earning small wages
+and with families dependent on these wages for their bread from one day
+to another, would be obliged to quit work against their will. It was
+thought, therefore, a fit subject of legislation to enjoin them from
+binding themselves to strike at the dictation of others, when it was
+against their judgment. It was suggested, also, to make the intimidation
+or coercion of non-union men a criminal act.
+
+"When these measures were suggested the cry was raised that the
+workingmen were to be deprived of their liberty and made the slaves of
+capital. The labor parties in the legislatures were assisted by a
+class of politicians who were made cowards through fear of losing the
+workingmen's votes, and this gave these parties the power to defeat
+all measures of which they disapproved, and to pass laws in their own
+interest. They claimed that they should be protected as well as the
+manufacturer, and so they made it lawful for the government to inspect
+all industries and to see that the employees received an equitable share
+of the profits. This was radical action, but they went still further,
+and took away from every employer the right of discharging men for any
+cause without the consent of the union; and full power to fix the
+hours of service and the wages was put into the hands of the government
+inspectors and the representatives of the trades-unions. The wages
+were to be based on what the inspectors found to be the profits of the
+business, and the help or advice of the proprietors was not to be taken.
+As these astonishing rules governed even the farmer and shopkeeper
+as well as the manufacturer, you can imagine that there was not much
+satisfaction in trying to carry on any business.
+
+"The laboring classes were beginning to discover that they were a large
+majority of the community and that there was a mighty power in the
+ballot. Their opponents, on the other hand, having lost the control in
+politics through universal suffrage, now bent their energies still more
+to the work of combining large interests under one management, hoping to
+wield in this way a power too formidable to be withstood. Immense
+trusts were formed in almost every branch of business, and the syndicate
+gradually took the place of the firm and individual corporation.
+
+"A long time previous to the period of which we are speaking, the people
+had put part of their business into the hands of the government, with
+the idea that it would be done with more promptness and also with more
+economy. A good example of this was seen in the excellent mail service,
+which the national government conducted much more satisfactorily than it
+could have been done by private enterprise.
+
+"The local governments, also, had full control of the highways and
+bridges and the common schools, hospitals, etc., while in large
+communities, at great expense, they stored and distributed water for
+domestic and other purposes. As the people had received undoubted
+benefits from this state of things, there were few to object to it, and
+even their objection was more for theoretical than practical reasons. It
+is not strange, therefore, that as the troublous times approached
+these functions of the state should be multiplied. Besides the gain in
+convenience and in cost that thus came to the people, they began to
+rely on the strong arm of the government for protection from the
+uncertainties and interruptions incident to private control of many
+kinds of business.
+
+"As the telegraph and telephone came into more general use the
+government found it necessary to add their facilities to the mail
+service, in order to give the people the best means of communication.
+From this point the step was soon taken of assuming control of all
+the telegraph and telephone lines, in the interest of lower prices and
+better service. This was attended with such good results that it
+was thought wise to extend the conveniences of the mail in another
+direction; and instead of carrying a few small parcels the government
+took into its hands the entire express business, and it was not long
+before everybody conceded it to be a good move.
+
+"At the same time, the municipal governments began to exhibit the same
+paternal character. They first took control of the lighting and heating
+facilities, and this led in a short time to their furnishing the people
+with fuel, which was generally brought from a distance, and which, in
+private hands, always had a way of going up in price at just the time
+when the poor people were obliged to buy it. For the sake of economy,
+also, the cities took possession of all street cars, cabs, and
+omnibuses.
+
+"Affairs had reached this condition when the labor troubles became so
+serious, and this absorption of private business by the government was
+so recent and was in general so satisfactory, that men could but think
+of it in connection with their efforts to solve the industrial problems.
+The time had now come when some radical measures must be adopted to
+preserve and extend civilization. The labor party were abusing their
+power still more in making bad laws, and strikes became more frequent,
+and were followed by rioting and bloodshed. At length the interruptions
+to business occasioned by the irregularities in traveling became
+unbearable. The public demanded better service, but the railroad
+companies were powerless to render it, being in the hands of the
+employees, who at the slightest grievance would stop every wheel till
+the dispute was settled. The trouble generally started with one road and
+spread to the others by sympathy, and the result was just as disastrous
+to business whether the men gained their end or not.
+
+"There had always been a party, although at times pretty feeble, in
+favor of government control of the entire transportation business. This
+party now argued that that was the only thing that would cure these
+evils, and they gained thereby many new adherents. When it was
+considered that government ownership of the telegraph was working well
+in spite of many adverse prophecies, the people began to entertain
+the idea that it would perhaps be best to try the experiment with
+the railroads, especially as it gave some promise of relief from the
+strikes. To be sure, it would add to the government service immense
+numbers of men, and increase a danger that had always been threatening,
+that of making too large a list of civil officers to be managed without
+great corruption.
+
+"But now it was not long before a large majority of the people asked to
+have the trial made, and soon all railroads, canals, and steamboats were
+in the hands of the general government. The employees were formed into
+an army, with officers of all grades, and put under strict military
+discipline. At the least show of insubordination a man was discharged,
+never to be reemployed, and although this caused some hardship in
+individual cases at first, it put an effectual stop to the strikes
+and kept business moving. The best of the workmen had been among the
+strongest advocates of national ownership, and as the movement gained
+in favor no class were so satisfied with the change as the employees
+themselves. Work was steady, wages were regular, faithfulness and
+length of service were rewarded, and the aged and feeble were retired on
+pensions.
+
+"In this way peace had come in one department of labor, but war still
+raged among the manufacturers and in the building and other trades. The
+workingmen literally held the reins in society, but did not know enough
+to drive away from the rocks. Instead of taking advantage of shorter
+hours and higher wages to improve their minds and prepare themselves
+for a better condition, they were too apt to waste their energies
+in denouncing the capitalists and in trying to force still greater
+concessions from their unwilling employers. They would loudly demand
+that every ancient wrong endured by them should be redressed, and then,
+to show their idea of right, they would compel a builder, in the middle
+of a contract, where time was more precious than money, to give
+them higher wages than had been agreed on; or they would boycott to
+bankruptcy a small shopkeeper who innocently bought goods that happened
+to be made by non-union workmen.
+
+"But do not imagine that the wrong was all on one side. There
+were employers who were unjust and cruel when they had the power,
+unreasonable in argument, and boorish and exasperating in their manners.
+Many seemed to think they were a different class of beings because they
+had more money than their workmen, and they resented the idea of the
+latter rising above the station in which they were born. They raised
+wages only when forced to do so, and considered any amount of profit
+made out of their men perfectly legitimate. When want came they would
+give in charity to the unfortunate ones that which really belonged to
+them by right. These disagreeable qualities were not possessed alone by
+such as were employers. There was a class of rich people not engaged in
+business, and although they had the greatest interest in the perpetuity
+of society as it was, many of them considered themselves as members of
+a superior caste, and looked down with disdain upon the majority of
+mankind, and the real masters of the situation, who had to work for
+their daily bread.
+
+"It was against this class especially that anarchy was forging its
+thunderbolt. The freedom of the press and freedom of speech gave the
+socialist and anarchist the opportunity to promulgate their seditious
+doctrines, and they looked to the ignorant and depraved portions of the
+community for adherents. By the successful risings of the people against
+despotic power the word 'revolution' had gained a certain nobility of
+sound and meaning, and now these incendiaries employed it to mislead the
+credulous. They promised an overturning by which all property and money
+should become a common fund and be redistributed on a more equitable
+basis, and it is perhaps not to be wondered at that some poor, ignorant
+ones, seeing the vast inequalities in life, should be carried away with
+their arguments. The vision of a society where all should share alike
+and live on the same scale of comfort was intoxicating. But the scheme
+of the anarchist was not based on love and a desire to promote true
+brotherhood. Judging from the violent means proposed to bring about
+the change, it seemed rather to be based on hate. In preaching their
+doctrine of personal license they were stealing the livery of freedom in
+which to serve their selfish lusts.
+
+"While the vicious and ignorant thus threatened society on the one hand,
+the accumulation of enormous wealth by a few fortunate, or unfortunate,
+men was thought by some to be a menace equally serious. It was argued
+that this could not go on without making the poor poorer and more
+numerous, and thus emphasizing and perpetuating the separation of the
+two classes.
+
+"I need not point out to you a fact that you must realize, namely, that
+the spring of action with too many men, the one cause of the troubles
+that really threatened the foundations of society, was selfishness.
+Can you imagine any danger from all these movements if men could have
+suddenly become unselfish, really unselfish?
+
+"I hope I have not given you the idea that all the world of people had
+lost their heads. As in the history of nations of that period war seems
+to have been the principal occupation, so in the social life of the
+people the evils and dangers are most prominently seen. But all this
+time there was a large party of men and women who were alive to the
+perils of the hour, and intent on seeking the best means to overcome
+them. This party was made up of many representatives of every class,
+rich and poor, workingmen and employers, and included the great mass of
+the intelligent and thoughtful members of society.
+
+"The general and local governments were carrying on, with marked success
+and without friction, certain kinds of business, while in many other
+departments there were disorder and possible ruin. Time brought no
+healing power; the troubles increased and were now truly gigantic. Where
+should help be found?"
+
+As Thorwald paused here, the doctor, who, I thought, had been wanting to
+speak for some time, took occasion to say:
+
+"Don't tell us, Thorwald, that this people turned over all their
+business, both industrial and professional, to the government, and made
+machines of themselves. I am becoming exceedingly interested in them and
+hope they found some better release from their woes. I am sure there are
+a number of methods of relief which they might have tried."
+
+"I am glad you have spoken, Doctor," answered Thorwald, "or I might have
+talked you to death. We must really break off now and get out of doors."
+
+Mona listened to different portions of the foregoing conversation.
+It was dull amusement for her, as we could see by her actions, and we
+wondered at first why she showed so little interest in it. She did not
+seem to realize the full significance of her unique position in our
+circle. As the last representative of the race of moon men, she had
+now the opportunity of learning something of the history of two sister
+worlds, and one would suppose that she would have been eager to hear
+every word we said. She had expressed herself more than once as anxious
+to know all any of us could tell her, nor did she hesitate to ask
+questions continually--and intelligent questions, too. But she was
+sympathetic only in certain directions, having a laudable curiosity to
+hear about any of the pleasant phases of society, either on the earth or
+on Mars. But when Thorwald talked of the former troubles experienced by
+his race, or when we compared these with the miseries of our own times
+on the earth, Mona became an indifferent listener.
+
+She was sitting with us when Thorwald proposed the out-door exercise,
+and so we all went out together. As we walked, Thorwald said:
+
+"Mona, I fear you have not been enjoying my tedious talk this morning.
+You would be better pleased, I am sure, with some other topic."
+
+In her sweet accents, so charming to every ear, Mona responded:
+
+"I hope my lack of attention did not give you offense, Thorwald, but I
+do not understand the things you have talked about to-day."
+
+"Not understand? Why, I know from former conversations with you that
+such things are not beyond your comprehension."
+
+"Thank you," said Mona, "but I think they are, for I never before heard
+anything like the ideas you have advanced."
+
+"We shall all be glad to learn, then, how these questions were answered
+and these wrongs righted by your ancestors."
+
+"They never had any such perplexities," responded Mona.
+
+"Which means, I presume," said Thorwald, "that the race became so far
+advanced before your time that the records and traditions of their early
+struggles were all forgotten."
+
+"Oh, no," she sang out, "that's not it. What had they to struggle over?"
+
+"Was it then so easy for them to be just?" asked Thorwald.
+
+"Certainly, and I have been exceedingly surprised to learn by your long
+talk that there is such a thing as injustice."
+
+We were all becoming thoroughly interested, but left it for Thorwald to
+continue his questions.
+
+"Mona," said he, "do you mean that your people, even in the remote past,
+were entirely ignorant of such troubles as we have been speaking about?"
+
+"Yes, and of all other troubles. I am sure there was always only peace
+and happiness on the moon. Strife and hatred, sorrow, want, and misery
+are all strange words to me, and entirely unknown except as I have heard
+them in your conversation."
+
+"Was there never any sickness there?" I asked.
+
+"I don't know the meaning of the word," she replied. "Is it another item
+in the general unpleasantness of the times you have been describing? I
+wonder that your race, Thorwald, ever survived those rude days."
+
+"But," asked Thorwald, "what think you of the earth? The doctor and his
+companion say their planet is now passing through just such a period."
+
+"Well, all I can say is that I am thankful I was not discovered till
+after the moon had deserted the earth."
+
+"Tell us more about your race," said the doctor. "Were they all as good
+as you are?"
+
+"Just the same. There were no degrees in goodness."
+
+"And did they all sing as they talked, and in such sweet tones as
+yours?" I asked.
+
+"Oh, many sang better than I do, and all made music of their words. I
+never heard speech that was not melodious till you and the doctor came
+to see me."
+
+"And did everything else in your life there correspond to your charming
+manner of talking?" asked Thorwald.
+
+"Why, yes, I think so," answered Mona. "It was a delightful world.
+Everything was bright and joyous, with no shadow of discontent nor
+anything to cause sadness or discomfort. Do you wonder that I could not
+sympathize with your story of wrongs and sorrows, the very nature of
+which was a new revelation to me?"
+
+Mona's notions about the people whom she represented seemed strange and
+improbable to us, and we attributed them to the influence of her own
+guileless nature. One so innocent and whole-hearted as she was would
+naturally clothe her ancestors with at least the virtues and graces she
+herself possessed. However, we had no means of proving Mona's ideas to
+be false. We had brought away from the moon no records of any kind by
+which to study its history, and of that history Mona was as yet our
+only interpreter. But every word she spoke on this subject only added
+intensity to the pleasurable anticipation with which these Martians
+looked forward to their study of the moon and its former inhabitants.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXX.
+
+
+ATTEMPTS TO SOLVE THE PROBLEM.
+
+It was not till the next day that we sat down together again to continue
+the conversation. Remembering what the doctor had said, Thorwald began:
+
+"In sketching for you the history of that age of activity and change in
+our career, I was in such fear of wearying you with dry details that I
+hurried along and omitted the very things to which you refer, Doctor.
+This people did try all the experiments that suggested themselves,
+and if you think your patience will endure it I will speak of a few of
+them."
+
+We both assured him that we would gladly listen, and that we considered
+ourselves fortunate in having such an instructor. He was merely telling
+us about a certain period in the history of Mars, but if he had known
+how nearly he had been coming to the course of events on the earth he
+would not have wondered that we were so eager to hear all he had to say.
+
+"Quite early in the labor difficulties," he resumed, "state arbitration
+had its day; a short one, however, for the appointment of the
+arbitrators soon became a matter of partisan politics, and their
+influence was gone. Whichever side was in power could appoint a board
+that would be prejudiced in favor of that side from the start, and when
+the trouble came the other party would not have confidence enough in
+their judgment to accept their decision.
+
+"Next, laws were passed making arbitration compulsory, but allowing the
+arbitrators to be chosen at the time of the strike, the employer to name
+one, the workmen one, and these two to find the third. This did some
+good as long as only first class men were selected, but a few flagrant
+cases occurred where the arbitrators, who were allowed to inspect the
+books of the concern, made public the private affairs of the business,
+to the great injury of the owners. This brought the law into disfavor,
+and, as there was no provision for enforcing the decisions, it came to
+pass that they were often disregarded, and so, before long, this plan of
+settling disputes was also abandoned.
+
+"For a good many years no other subject so completely filled the public
+mind as this very troublesome one, and people of all professions were
+continually suggesting remedies. It was held by many to be a good
+working theory that the employees in every business, whether industrial,
+mercantile, or financial, were entitled to some share in the profits
+over and above their compensation in wages. This was disputed by the
+large majority of the employers, who claimed that their contract with
+the workmen was a simple one, by which they agreed to work so many hours
+for so much pay, and as this was their due even if the business proved
+a losing one, so they had no just claim to anything more if it were
+successful the employees had nothing to do or say about the question
+of profits. On the other hand, where a number of men had, by long and
+faithful service, a strict regard for the welfare of the business, and
+loyalty to all of the employer's interests, helped to build up a great
+industry, an increasing number of people, not only the wage earners but
+many others not directly interested, felt that the workmen had
+fairly gained, if not a share in the proprietorship, at least some
+consideration from the owners. This feeling was especially strong in
+cases where the laws of the land had materially aided the success of the
+business, and where the profits were unusually large.
+
+"I want to say, in passing, that it is by such indications as the
+existence of this sentiment that we can see, all through those troublous
+times, the gradual improvement of the race.
+
+"As some of the employers came to be impressed with the same thought,
+they began in a quiet way trying the experiment of giving their men a
+bonus at the end of the year, proportioned to the amount of wages they
+earned. In some cases this gave place after a time to the plan of making
+the workmen regular partners, and giving them a certain percentage of
+the profits in lieu of wages. But when a time of general depression came
+and the percentage did not amount to as much as their old pay had been,
+the men felt as though they had been led into a trap, and after they had
+endured the situation for a time they were glad to return to the former
+system.
+
+"Another scheme that was extensively tried was cooperation among the
+workingmen, both in manufacturing and mercantile business. The argument,
+which was a plausible one, was that the expense of big salaries for
+management, together with the enormous profits, would all be available
+for dividends. The results showed that in the long run the profits, in
+all but exceptional cases, were not more than a fair interest on the
+investment, and as to the salaries, it was found that financial and
+business ability was scarce and costly, and yet necessary to success.
+The associations of workingmen were willing to put their money into
+buildings, machinery, and stock, and the men were ready to work hard
+themselves, but they were not willing to pay for skill in management,
+and so their failure was inevitable. At the same time they still held
+to the opinion, which was at the bottom of these experiments, that under
+the old system the owners and managers of the business got too much
+of the profits and the operatives too little. Is there anything else,
+Doctor, that you think these people might have tried?"
+
+"I am not satisfied," the doctor answered, "with their efforts
+at profit-sharing. It seems to me that that scheme, under proper
+management, ought to have brought the two classes together by giving
+them a common interest in every enterprise, and so to have gradually
+done away with all bitterness and strife. Employers might have used a
+part of their surplus profits in building better houses for their men,
+in giving them instruction as to a nobler way of living, in opening
+libraries and bath-houses and cooking schools and savings banks, in
+keeping them insured against sickness and death, and in doing a thousand
+things to show the men that they were thoughtful of their comfort and
+welfare. If the workmen could discover by such means that the employers
+were really their friends, I think it must have disarmed their hatred
+and antagonism. Then if, with these benefits, they could have received
+in money a small percentage above their usual wages, they would
+certainly have repaid such friendliness by a service so faithful and an
+industry so constant as to more than make up, in increased profits, for
+all the philanthropic expenditures."
+
+"Doctor," said Thorwald, "I am pleased to see you take such an interest
+in this subject. You talk as though you had thought of it before, and
+you have outlined almost the exact course pursued by the people of whom
+we are speaking. Hundreds of such experiments were tried and persisted
+in for a long time, both before the serious labor troubles began
+and after. Among their strongest advocates were men of theory in the
+professions, who were actuated by high motives but did not appreciate
+the practical difficulties. They were pretty sure they could get along
+with the workingmen without so much friction. But the profit-sharing
+scheme also had the aid of many excellent men among the employers, as I
+have said. However, for one reason or another, the experiments all
+came to naught. In some cases great expense was entered into to provide
+comforts for the workmen, and after a few prosperous years depression
+followed and the proprietors found they had undertaken too much. Several
+large failures, brought about by such lack of judgment, helped to
+produce disappointment and discouragement. Then it was found by
+experience that the evil-disposed among the workmen were not to be
+converted into honest, industrious, and faithful employees in any such
+wholesale manner. Making men over could not be done in the block. There
+never had been any difficulty in dealing with the sober, reasonable,
+well-intentioned men. The trouble had all come from the vicious, the
+incompetent, and the shiftless ones. And the more privileges this class
+obtained, the more they demanded. If their working day was made shorter
+in order to give them the opportunity of taking advantage of the free
+facilities for improving their minds, they loudly demanded another
+hour each day and frequent holidays, with the liberty of spending their
+leisure time as best suited their tastes. If they were given a share
+of the profits, they complained because it was so small a share, and
+thought they were being cheated when the proprietors would not let
+them inspect the books to see if the profits were not larger than
+represented. Then as partners they claimed the right to be consulted
+in the management of the business. Such demands brought on disputes, of
+course; and the natural result was that strikes were not unknown even in
+these humanitarian establishments. As the labor organizations were then
+in full blast the better class of men were drawn into the strikes, which
+sometimes became so serious that the owners were compelled to give up
+their philanthropic efforts and go back to the old system of giving what
+they were obliged to and getting what they could in return.
+
+"In general, employers found they had still an unanswered problem on
+their hands. An undue spirit of independence had been fostered among a
+class of uneducated, ill-natured, and thick-headed workmen, and society
+was rocked to its foundation in the effort to keep them within bounds."
+
+"Will you let me make another suggestion, Thorwald?" asked the doctor.
+"Why did not all classes approach this difficulty in a businesslike way
+and work together to remove it? Why did not the state see that the right
+of private contract was a safe and useful one for all sides, and
+cease to infringe on it by law? Why did not the public teachers make a
+combined and continued effort to instill a conciliatory spirit into both
+sides, and to show how peace and brotherly feeling would be a mutual
+blessing? Why did not the employers--not one here and there, but all of
+them--treat their men as they would like to be treated in their place,
+make friends with them, talk reason even to unreasonable men, speak
+kindly to the unfriendly ones, urge the value of sobriety upon the
+intemperate, teach the incompetent, sympathize with the unfortunate, try
+to reclaim the vicious instead of turning them off harshly, and in every
+way strive to prove themselves to the men as beings of the same flesh
+and blood with them? And why did not the workingmen receive what
+was done for them with the right spirit--give up their envious and
+suspicious feelings, improve every precious chance of getting knowledge,
+work for their employers as they would for themselves, cease to use
+the power of the unions unjustly, cultivate amicable relations with
+everybody, and try in all possible ways to make true men of themselves?
+If the men had worked along this line they would have found they were
+bettering themselves in every way faster than they could by strikes and
+conflicts."
+
+"Ah! Doctor," replied Thorwald, "you have now the true solution. Such
+action would have annihilated the difficulties in a day. But to suppose
+every employer and every workman capable of following such good advice
+is to suppose that the world had then reached an almost ideal condition.
+The very existence and character of the troubles show how imperfect men
+were. It was a common saying then that human nature was the same as it
+had been in the earliest days and that it would never change while the
+world should stand. This was a mistaken view, for there had been a great
+change. The heart had lost much of its selfishness and had begun to
+grasp in some slight measure a sense of that distant but high destiny to
+which it had been called."
+
+"If the world," said the doctor, "was not good enough for these troubles
+to be cured by kindness, I am anxious to know how they were healed. I
+am sure you can tell us, for those people were your remote ancestors and
+you are far removed from such vexations now."
+
+"That is true," said Thorwald. "I can tell you how this social problem
+was solved, and how our race has found release from the many dangers
+that have threatened us. It has not been by man's device or invention.
+But God, whose arm alone has been our defense, has always called men
+to his aid, and thus, in his own time and way, help has come in every
+crisis. The most important changes in society have been brought about
+gradually and without violence, and with that hint I think we had better
+leave this subject for the present. Some day I want to go over with you
+briefly the history of the work and influence of the gospel of Jesus in
+the world, and it will then be fitting to refer again to the period of
+which we have just now been speaking.
+
+"I am sure you will find it a great relief for me to change the subject,
+or stop talking."
+
+"We will not object to your changing the subject," said I, "whenever you
+think it best, but we shall try to keep you talking till we know a great
+deal more about Mars than we do now."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXI.
+
+WINE-DRINKING IN MARS.
+
+
+I went downstairs the next morning before the doctor was ready, and when
+I met Thorwald I said, without thought: "A fine morning."
+
+"Yes," he replied, "all our mornings are fine. I do not mean that the
+sun is always shining or that we do not have clouds and a variety of sky
+effects, but we know the clouds can be depended on not to give rain till
+night."
+
+"Do you not lose something by having a perpetual calm?" I asked. "For
+I understand the rain in the night comes only in gentle showers. In our
+rough world some of us enjoy the grandeur of the storm."
+
+"How about those who are exposed to its fury?" asked Thorwald in reply.
+"I do not see how anyone can really enjoy what is sure to be bringing
+sorrow or even inconvenience to others. Could a mother take pleasure in
+a tempest if she knew her son was in danger of shipwreck from it? Why
+should it change her feeling to know her son was by her side and that it
+was only strangers that were in danger?"
+
+"But," continued Thorwald, "are you and your friend ready for an
+excursion to-day? If you are, I propose to give you a new experience."
+
+"We shall be delighted to accompany you, and as I see breakfast is ready
+I will go up and tell the doctor to hurry."
+
+"Oh, I wouldn't do that," exclaimed Thorwald. "You must try to learn to
+live as we do, and you will remember I said the other day that we are
+never in haste. If, for example, it were Zenith who was late, I should
+never think of calling to her to hurry, for I should know she must have
+a good excuse for staying. Her liberty of action is as valuable to her
+as mine to me, and however long she might keep me waiting, I should
+feel sure that her action was the result of right motives and correct
+reasoning. If the doctor does not appear, we can easily postpone
+our excursion to to-morrow. There would be no lack of occupation for
+to-day."
+
+"What a delightful feeling it must be," I said, "to be always free from
+hurry. It is the commonest experience in our imperfect state for one to
+start a few minutes late in the morning, and then be on a constant jump
+all day to make them up. One of the evils of our driving age is the
+wear and tear of our nerves in what we consider a necessary haste to get
+there."
+
+"Get where?" asked Thorwald.
+
+"To get anywhere or to do anything that we set out to accomplish," I
+answered.
+
+"I fear," said Thorwald, "that I have talked too much about Mars and
+not insisted enough on hearing about the earth. Suppose something should
+happen to break off your visit?"
+
+"You wouldn't miss much, Thorwald."
+
+"We certainly should regret exceedingly not learning many things that
+you could tell us," he said.
+
+"Yes," I answered, "but you cannot profit by our experiences, while we
+of the earth are in a condition where we need all the help and advice
+you have for us. If we ever return to our home we want to tell all about
+your advanced civilization and how you have overcome the evils that vex
+our race. But I wonder why the doctor doesn't come. I think I will go
+and see, but I promise not to interfere with his liberty of action." I
+soon returned with my friend, and we all went to breakfast. The doctor
+said he would not eat much, as he felt somewhat indisposed. Here was
+something new in the life of this household, and each one began to
+express sympathy and ask what could be done. The doctor was amused, and
+I said I thought a good, hearty breakfast would make him all right. But
+Thorwald insisted that something unusual should be done, although his
+inexperience was so great that nothing feasible suggested itself at
+first. Zenith was in favor of all repairing to the library, hunting
+up the histories of the days when people were ill, and finding out
+the proper remedy for his ailment. This would have been a logical
+proceeding, but I thought to myself that they did not understand the
+value of time in such cases and that the doctor would probably either
+recover or die while they were at work.
+
+As I did not appear to be any more alarmed than my companion was, the
+excitement soon subsided. But Thorwald was not satisfied yet, and after
+some further thought his face brightened and he asked me if a glass of
+good wine would not be the thing for the doctor. When I replied that it
+would probably not hurt him, Thorwald told his son to go and bring up a
+bottle of the oldest wine in the cellar, and soon not only the patient
+but the members of the family and myself were all partaking. No more was
+heard after this of the doctor's indisposition, and Thorwald no doubt
+felicitated himself that he had effected a cure. The situation was
+rather suggestive to me, and while we were drinking, and eating our
+breakfast, I could not refrain from saying:
+
+"If some of our friends on the earth could see us now, Thorwald,
+we would be discredited in all that we might say about your higher
+condition. It would do no good to expatiate on your ripe character
+and on your attainments in knowledge and virtue. I fear they would not
+believe much of it if they knew that you not only drank wine yourselves,
+but encouraged its use by giving it to your guests."
+
+"Why," said Thorwald, "you could tell them the wine was brought out to
+be used as a medicine, and that the rest of us drank to keep the doctor
+company. But when you see your friends you had better tell them the
+truth at once, that while we all take wine here frequently this is the
+only instance where I have ever known it to be used medicinally."
+
+"They would tell us," said the doctor, "that you have made one mistake
+at least, and that it is a dangerous thing to have wine in the house,
+and especially to give it to children."
+
+"He would have a very gross and imperfect conception of our character,"
+said Thorwald, "who should have the thoughts which you express. I can
+judge something of the nature of the feeling which you say exists on the
+earth, however, for only a few days ago I was reading a full account of
+the different temperance movements on our planet. Few subjects in our
+history are more interesting. Do not despise the temperance reformers,
+and if you think they are sometimes too radical you can afford to excuse
+that for the sake of the absolute good they accomplish. All through
+the early part of our career there was a perpetual warfare against the
+drinking habit. At first wine was an ordinary article of food, and in
+some countries more commonly used for drinking than water. There was
+much abuse of it, but in general people used it as a matter of course,
+without thinking they were any more responsible for the drunkards than
+they were for the intemperate in eating. But the evil of overdrinking
+increased, and some religious reformers found that the easiest way
+to check it was to forbid all use of intoxicants. Here is an extreme
+example that I have read of what one such reformer taught: 'If a single
+drop of alcoholic liquor should fall into a well one hundred and fifty
+feet deep, and if the well should afterwards be filled up and grass grow
+over it, and a sheep should eat of the grass, then my followers must
+not partake of that mutton.' Could any of your prohibitionists be more
+radical than that?
+
+"In later times many kinds of strong and poisonous drinks were made,
+and untold harm was done by their use. Drunkenness was the most fruitful
+source of crime and misery; it, more than any other cause, filled the
+jails, the almshouses and the insane asylums; it kept men in poverty
+and squalor; it scattered families and changed men, and sometimes women,
+too, into beasts. No class or profession was free from the evil, for
+it disqualified the scholar and statesman for their duties just as it
+unfitted the laborer for his daily task. It helped to debauch politics
+and public morals, while it brought disgrace and ruin to private
+reputation and character. More money was lost by it than was spent to
+educate and Christianize the world, and it cost more precious lives than
+war and pestilence combined. Being a crime utterly selfish and debasing,
+as well as extremely tenacious of its hold upon the individual life, it
+was almost the greatest enemy to the spread of the gospel.
+
+"Was there anything in the way of good to be said of the drinking habit
+to offset all this harm? Men drank to be sociable and companionable and
+to please their friends, and when the habit was fastened on them found
+they had lost every friend of value. They took to their cups to drown
+their sorrow, and found a sorrow more poignant among the dregs. They
+began the moderate use of stimulants to give strength to the body or
+activity to the brain, and discovered when too late that their abuse
+had brought down in common ruin both body and mind. No, it is impossible
+that anyone should ever attempt to make an argument in favor of
+drunkenness.
+
+"The more active the age the more prevalent was this evil, but
+the greater, also, was the determination to overthrow it. When the
+conscience was quickened by the growth of Christianity and men's lives
+became more valued, many persistent efforts were made to stamp out the
+crime of intoxication.
+
+"Numerous societies were organized and good men and women entered
+heartily into the work. Every argument was used to show the danger of
+the drink habit and to teach the beauty and value of sobriety, appeal
+being made both to the reason and the conscience. The power of the state
+was invoked and punishment administered to the drunkards, while the
+manufacture and sale of intoxicants were restricted and sometimes
+prohibited. We see how firm a hold this evil had on all classes when we
+read that very often public sentiment would not permit these beneficent
+laws to be enforced. In all great reforms the apathy of a large part of
+the people has been a most discouraging feature.
+
+"Of course it was never intrinsically wrong to drink a glass of wine,
+but in view of the enormous amount of sorrow and trouble caused by
+overdrinking, can it be wondered at that many earnest souls came to
+abhor everything in the nature of intoxicating drink, and to practice
+and insist on total abstinence? Oh, I can tell you if I lived on the
+earth now I should be a radical of the radicals on this subject."
+
+"Notwithstanding which," said I, "here you are sitting at your own table
+and pouring into our glasses this delicious wine."
+
+As a smile passed around at this remark it was Zenith who said:
+
+"Do you see anything incongruous in that?"
+
+I paused a moment to choose a reply, when the doctor spoke up with:
+
+"Far be it from us, Zenith, with our earth-born ideas, to even seem to
+pass judgment in this happy place, but I presume my companion was trying
+to imagine what our temperance friends, who do not know you, would say."
+
+"As for us," said Thorwald, "I trust we shall be justified in your eyes
+at least, before we are through, but let us inquire about those whom you
+call your temperance friends. I suppose they would have a poor opinion
+of a man who was loud in his public advocacy of temperance and yet drank
+wine at home."
+
+"I think," I replied, "that I have heard some such term as 'hypocrite'
+applied to men of that class."
+
+"And yet," continued Thorwald, "they would think it perfectly proper for
+a man to keep razors away from his children, but at the same time have
+one or more concealed about the house somewhere for his own use. It
+might very easily be argued that razors were dangerous things under any
+conditions; the children might find them by accident and do great harm
+to themselves or others; the man himself, though accustomed to their
+moderate use, might, in a moment of overconfidence, go too far and
+inflict a serious injury on himself or even a fatal one; and, further,
+it might be said that razors are of no real use to men, for nature knows
+best what is needed for protection, and if hair on the face was not
+necessary for the well-being of man it would not grow there. This
+argument could be pushed until, under an awakened public sentiment, the
+manufacture and sale of razors might be prohibited.
+
+"I have said this to introduce a plea for tolerance of opinion. You were
+created, I have no doubt, as we were, with different temperaments and
+inclinations, which, with various kinds of education, produce different
+opinions. You cannot all have the same mind on any given subject, nor
+all approve of the same methods of reform, but you will make but little
+progress in true temperance until you can bury minor differences and
+all work together. You must learn that everything that has been made,
+whether produced by the direct hand of God or through the agency of man,
+has its proper use. Do you say that some people would express the wish
+that everything intoxicating could be destroyed from the earth, as
+having no proper use? All the evil in it will surely be removed, but the
+good will remain. At present it is one of the stubborn obstructions in
+your thorny path. If your way were to be suddenly made smooth and easy
+your race would never learn self-denial, the only road that leads to a
+higher state. Your present imperfect life is a daily conflict, and it is
+only by battles won and temptations overcome that you will ever be built
+up into virtuous and God-like characters.
+
+"I said you must be tolerant. I can conceive that a man might feel
+perfectly safe in the use of wine and have no scruples of any kind
+against it, and yet be sincere in urging people in general to totally
+abstain from it on account of the harm some might receive. This man must
+not be denied a place in the temperance ranks. Another might think it a
+sin to touch a drop. One might believe the only right way to deal with
+the subject would be to prohibit the sale entirely, another would think
+more might be done by some other method of restriction. All that I have
+read of our experiences goes to prove that the people of the earth
+will never drive out this evil till all shades of temperance people get
+Christianity enough into their hearts to unite on a broad platform and
+work as one army with a single purpose."
+
+"Will you not tell us," I asked, "how the reform was finally effected on
+Mars?"
+
+"Like all other true reforms," replied Thorwald, "it came about through
+the sanctified commonsense of the church of God, not suddenly by any
+means, but gradually and only after many years of severe struggle.
+A combined effort of all good people, especially women, working with
+spiritual as well as moral weapons, produced an impression which was
+lasting. When men were taught from their childhood the dangers which
+accompany the drinking habit; when one class of people denied themselves
+all indulgence for the sake of the class who were weak; when drinking
+became a disgrace, and those who could not keep sober were taken in
+charge by the state and permanently separated from the rest of the
+community; when the church awoke to its full duty and the rich poured
+out their money; when men and women forgot fashion and pride and caste
+in their love for the practical work of Christianity; when the power of
+the gospel had strengthened men's will and had begun to plant in
+every heart a love for something purer than fleshly appetite; when the
+spiritual part of our nature began to gain the ascendency and to occupy
+the place for which it was made; then intemperance loosed its hold and
+soon disappeared, never to trouble us again.
+
+"You see it was a long road with us and I have no doubt it will prove
+so on the earth, but do not on that account lose courage. And let me
+counsel both of you to join the ranks of the reformers when you get
+home.
+
+"Although intemperate drinking has long been unknown among us, as well
+as all other gross imperfections of character, we still make good wine,
+and no more danger is felt in drinking it than in using milk. Everybody
+can have all he wants of it. Our tables may be supplied with the
+luxuries of every clime, but we have learned that it is best for us to
+be temperate in both eating and drinking. I am sorry your temperance
+friends, as you say, would not approve of us, but when you see them
+I trust you will do what you can to let them understand that such
+temptations as this of which we have been speaking belong to the
+childhood of a race, and that the people of Mars have long since passed
+out of infancy."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXII.
+
+A GENUINE ACCIDENT.
+
+
+Mona did not feel obliged to be present at our conversations after she
+had explained her position to us, but I saw her many times every day. I
+tried to respect her feeling and avoid the subject which still occupied
+so many of my thoughts. I fought against my passion, which I told myself
+was unmanly, since it was not returned in the good, old-fashioned way.
+What man of spirit would submit to the enchantment of one who, while
+professing she loved him with her whole heart, declared in the same
+breath that she also loved equally well half a dozen others? I tried
+to make up my mind to shake off the spell and be free. To this end
+I endeavored to examine my heart with the purpose of discovering if
+possible the secret of Mona's power over me.
+
+I was sure I could not be weak enough to be held so firmly by her beauty
+alone, lovely as she was. Her mental equipment did not seem to furnish
+the ground for such a deep attachment, and I could not believe that
+I was good enough to be so powerfully drawn to her by the inimitable
+character of her spiritual nature. What, then, was the attraction? It
+was not far to seek. What was it that first moved me, before I had ever
+seen her? What accomplishment was it that always came to my mind first
+when I thought of her? In short, what would Mona, silent, be? I could
+hardly imagine. But then, she was not silent, and I knew well enough
+that, struggle as I night, I never could successfully resist the subtle
+charm of that voice.
+
+So, as I saw no escape for me, I next began to study how I could infuse
+into Mona's love for me something more of the personal element. How
+could I teach her to love me just a little for myself alone? Evidently
+she had been educated in an atmosphere of the most uncompromising
+monotony. Where everybody loved everybody what chance could there be for
+lovers? I wondered what would move Mona. Some heroic action which should
+appeal to her sympathies would probably do it. She had been pleased with
+the part I had taken in discovering her retreat in the moon, and perhaps
+something else in that line would help me. But what was there one could
+possibly do in Mars which could be called heroic? I should have to
+ask Thorwald if he could think of anything I could do to arouse the
+imagination of Mona and bring her a little closer to me.
+
+Not long after I had been indulging in these conflicting thoughts I had
+a more promising opportunity than I had hoped for of showing Mona that I
+could do something besides make love to her.
+
+One morning she came to me and said she would like to go out for a long
+ride. As I never lost an opportunity of being alone with her I eagerly
+accepted this one and hurried off with her, lest any other member of
+the household should appear and propose to accompany us. Mona was as
+agreeable as ever, and chirruped away in her musical style as we walked
+down the hill in search of just the right carriage. We soon found one
+which pleased us, and as I was by this time perfectly at home in the
+management of these vehicles, we started off at a brisk pace along a
+road which took us through a charming section of the country. It made
+me happy to reflect that this pleasant ride was at Mona's suggestion.
+Although she had peculiar views about my manner of wooing, she did not
+shun my company, and I could not refuse to believe she really loved
+me as she said. I turned on more power, and as our speed became
+exhilarating I said to my companion:
+
+"Mona, they will think we have eloped."
+
+"Excuse me," came out in sweet notes, "you will have to explain."
+
+"Dear me, were your people so very proper that you don't even know the
+meaning of that word? Didn't they ever do anything wrong?"
+
+"Oh, is it wrong to elope?"
+
+"That depends entirely on the point of view. But I cannot explain
+further without bringing up the subject which you have forbidden me to
+speak about."
+
+"What subject is that? I have forgotten that I have ever put you under
+such a prohibition."
+
+"Why, the subject that is always nearest my heart and nearest my lips,
+the subject of my great love for you, dear Mona, so different from my
+regard for any other person."
+
+"Oh, I remember now, but I assure you I had forgotten all about it."
+And here her voice suddenly lost much of its tenderness and assumed a
+character which she rarely employed, as she continued, "But let us not
+discuss that topic again. I already know all you have to say on it, and
+why should we waste our time with such useless talk when there are so
+many more valuable things to occupy our attention?"
+
+"Forgive me," I exclaimed. "If you will promise me not to sing in that
+tone again I will talk about anything you wish."
+
+"I agree," she responded, and never did her accents sound sweeter.
+
+Somehow I was not so much affected by Mona's coldness this time as
+before, and I was able to recover my cheerfulness at once. I then
+determined to give her no occasion for another rebuff if I could help
+it, but to do all in my power to entertain her with what she called
+sensible conversation. There were many things connected with society on
+the earth in which she took a lively interest, and I made a great effort
+to talk myself into her favor, so that she would not say again that she
+preferred the doctor's company to mine.
+
+We had been riding a couple of hours or more, generally at a swift pace,
+when, from a high point in the road, we saw we were approaching the
+shore of the sea or a large lake.
+
+Mona was so delighted with the view that I said:
+
+"If we can find any kind of a boat on the shore we will have a ride on
+the water."
+
+"Can you manage a boat?" she asked.
+
+"Oh, yes, if it is not too large."
+
+"But it may be some new kind, something you are not acquainted with."
+
+"Then I shall have to study it out. But you are not afraid to go on the
+water with me, are you?"
+
+"If there is anything in this pleasant world to give me fear it is water
+in such mass as that," she replied, stretching out her hand toward the
+sea.
+
+"But I thought you were afraid of nothing," said I.
+
+"You have taught me the word," she responded, "and I hardly know its
+meaning yet, but I must acknowledge that I shrink from the ocean. Its
+vastness, so much water, overwhelms me. You know it is many, many years
+since the moon had any large bodies of water."
+
+"So it is," I exclaimed, "and everything will be new to you. What sport
+we shall have, and I shall make it my business to see that the water
+does not harm you."
+
+We hurried down to the shore and found the prettiest little boat I had
+ever seen all ready for us, as if we had ordered it for the occasion. It
+was evidently intended for children, but was fitted with both sails and
+oars, and also, I was glad to find, with a little screw and an electric
+apparatus to turn it. I was overjoyed with our good fortune, and
+prepared at once to embark. But Mona plainly hesitated. She kept up her
+musical chatter and tried to be as cheerful as ever, but I saw she was
+not as eager for the trip as I was. I did not let her see that I noticed
+her manner, however, and went on with my preparations. When I had
+brought the boat around so that she could step into it conveniently, she
+looked in my face, and asked in a voice which trembled with excitement:
+
+"Are you sure you understand how to manage it? It is all so strange to
+me."
+
+She wanted to decline to make the venture, I thought, but her courage
+was too great. Now was the time when I proved myself still a son of the
+earth, with fallible judgment and a will too much engrossed with self. I
+had been wishing for an opportunity to do some difficult thing for
+Mona, something noble which should win her affection, and here, when the
+chance offered, I did not recognize it. The truly heroic action would
+have been to respect Mona's feeling and give up the idea entirely, for I
+knew she had a strong aversion to trusting herself on the water. But
+it was really my own pleasure and not hers that I was seeking, for in
+answer to her question I said hurriedly:
+
+"Why, certainly. It is as easy to control as the carriage we have just
+left. We'll not put up the sails if you say so, and I promise to bring
+you back all safe and sound in a short time. I am sure you will enjoy
+the new experience, and then I want to hear how your voice sounds on the
+water."
+
+"Well, I will go," she said, "on your promise to protect me; but I have
+the queerest sensation, I don't know what to call it. Do you think it is
+fear?"
+
+"Oh, no, it can't be that, because there is nothing to fear. Are you
+ready now? Let me take your hand."
+
+As she stepped in and felt the motion she realized how unstable the
+water really was, and sank down at my feet, emitting an involuntary
+note of not very joyful quality. But she showed great bravery and, as
+I helped her to a seat, she said she would no doubt enjoy it after a
+while. I now shoved the boat out and used the oars a few minutes,
+but soon tiring of that exercise, I looked into the operation of the
+electric motor and found it quite simple. Turning on the power, the
+screw worked to perfection and sent the boat through the water in good
+shape.
+
+Mona was now recovering her spirits, seeing that no harm came to
+her, and at my request she sang some of her native songs. This was
+delightful, and I resigned myself to the full enjoyment of the occasion.
+It seemed to me that the excitement she had just passed through added a
+new and pleasing quality to her voice, if that were possible. As I sat
+listening and musing, my memory carried me back to the first time I had
+heard this marvelous singer, and I could not help contrasting the two
+situations. I felicitated myself on my present happiness, for when Mona
+was singing I wanted nothing more. I seemed to forget then that she
+would not listen to my tale of love, or if I thought of it I attached no
+consequence to it. The voice seemed to be a thing by itself, and a thing
+which in some way appeared to belong wholly to me, whether Mona was mine
+or not.
+
+She stopped singing after a while and asked if we had better not start
+for home. To which I replied:
+
+"I turned the boat around some time ago, and we are now headed directly
+for the place where we found it."
+
+When she expressed surprise at this I steered about in various
+directions to show her how easily it was done, and then some mischievous
+spirit, which. I myself must have imported into Mars, put it into my
+head to try and see how fast our little vessel could go. My idea was
+partly to satisfy my own curiosity and partly to treat Mona to as
+great a variety of sensations as possible. The electric apparatus was
+extremely sensitive, and a slight movement of the lever made an instant
+increase in our speed. A little more, and we began to go through the
+water at quite a handsome rate. I enjoyed it immensely, and if Mona did
+not like it she had pluck enough not to make it known. This emboldened
+me to put on still more power, which sent the boat ploughing along at
+such a velocity that the spray flew all about us and the boat shook so
+that we kept our seats with difficulty. Not knowing what I might be led
+to do next, and being in reality terribly frightened, if she had only
+known what the feeling was, Mona now mildly expostulated with:
+
+"Isn't this a little too fast? Something might happen."
+
+"Don't be afraid," I replied. "I'll take care of you. The doctor must
+have taught you that last word, as it is not used here. You know nothing
+ever happens in Mars. Everything goes along in the even tenor of its
+way, moved by laws which are fixed and certain. This boat, you see,
+is strong and well able to bear the strain. The water is smooth and
+contains no hidden rocks, and it is perfectly easy to steer clear of the
+shore, which you see is some distance off yet. But now that I have given
+you this little excitement, which you will not regret after it is all
+over, I will stop the current which produces this great force and bring
+in an artificial law, as it were, to override the natural law now in
+operation. Just look at this lever and see how easily it is done."
+
+I seized the handle, intending to shut off the power suddenly, but by
+some unaccountable mistake I turned it the wrong way. Instantly I saw
+the bow of the boat jump out of the water and go over our heads, and
+then Mona and I realized that something had actually happened on Mars,
+for we were both buried under the boat.
+
+I was the first to extricate myself and come to the surface, and, not
+seeing my companion, I thought she was surely lost. I might save her
+yet, though, and was just about to dive under the boat again, when her
+head appeared insight, only a little way from me, her eyes wide open
+and, really, a smile on her face.
+
+"Can you swim, Mona?" I cried, excitedly.
+
+She had not the breath to answer or else thought my question
+unnecessary. But I soon found my own answer when I saw her head sinking
+again just as I had reached her. I clutched her, and, as I held her head
+above the water, I began to understand that I had something on my hands
+to fulfill my promise to take care of her. At this instant I saw one
+of the oars from the boat floating a little way from us and managed to
+secure it, holding Mona with one arm and swimming with the other. I now
+helped my companion to half support herself by grasping the oar, while
+for the rest she was induced to throw an arm over my shoulder. In this
+way I was left free to make what progress I could through the water, and
+I lost no time in swimming toward the shore, since there was no hope of
+our being able to make use of the boat, which now lay, bottom up, on the
+surface.
+
+All this was done without a word from Mona, although I had been talking
+to her freely, giving her directions and assuring her of my ability
+to save her. As this was her first experience in drowning, she had
+evidently been trying to sing under the water and had found it so
+difficult that she had determined to keep her lips closed till she was
+well out of it. With this thought in my mind I said to her as soon as we
+were under way:
+
+"Your head is so far above water now that you can open your mouth with
+perfect safety. You see I can talk, and my head is much lower than
+yours."
+
+She was so situated that I could not see her face easily, and therefore
+I do not know whether she ventured to unstop her lips or not, but no
+sound came from them if she did. Perhaps the water still filled her ears
+and made her deaf. So I called aloud:
+
+"Can you hear me, Mona?"
+
+No answer in words, but I imagined I felt a slight pressure of her hand
+on my shoulder. I toiled on, musing over her strange behavior, till
+it occurred to me to try a subject which had never failed to bring a
+response from her.
+
+"I hope this will make you more affectionate to me, dear Mona," I said;
+and then, as she made no answer, I continued:
+
+"If we reach the shore alive and get home safe you will love me more
+than you do Foedric, will you not?"
+
+I thought this would bring an answer, and I was not disappointed, except
+in the manner in which it came. Not the faintest note escaped from her
+lips, but a throb of feeling came along her arm, and her hand grasped
+my shoulder with unmistakable vigor. I suppose she thought I would
+understand what this answer meant, but I was puzzled. It might mean so
+many things. Perhaps her heart was softening toward me and she was so
+much affected by her love for me, stronger and deeper than she had ever
+thought it could be, that she dared not speak. With this possibility
+in view I began to feel very tender toward her and to experience the
+pleasure of one whose love is returned in full measure.
+
+But then her answer might have quite a different meaning. What if she
+were telling me that she had determined never to speak another word on
+that subject, and that my question was an offense to her? Surely she
+had told me often enough to talk about more sensible things, and perhaps
+this was only a new and forcible way of repeating the same injunction. I
+reflected, too, that it was hardly fair to take advantage of the present
+situation to force upon her a prohibited topic of conversation.
+
+There was another possible meaning to her manner of answering me.
+Perhaps she was indignant because I had insisted on her getting into the
+boat with me against her wish, and held me strictly responsible for
+all that followed. With this view in mind I imagined she was saying to
+herself:
+
+"I want nothing to say to you. I accept your assistance because I cannot
+get to shore without you, but when once out of this dreadful water I
+shall have nothing more to do with you."
+
+To place against the latter theory I had the fact that Mona's face had
+beamed with pleasure all the time I was getting her fixed so I could
+swim freely. Dwelling upon this memory my mind returned to thoughts of
+love, and I felt that I must try once more to start that familiar song.
+So I said:
+
+"Forgive me, Mona, if I have offended you, and let me hear your voice
+again. You are too good to punish me so severely for my fault in getting
+you into this trouble. Will you not cheer me with a few notes while I
+bear you safely to the shore?"
+
+Again a pressure of the hand but no expression from the lips, and I was
+left to further conjecture over the strange mood my companion was in.
+I swam leisurely, so as not to exhaust my strength, and as there was a
+considerable distance to go I had plenty of time to think after I had
+found it impossible to induce Mona to enter into conversation. Although
+so near, my companion seemed far away, and I became extremely lonesome.
+In trying to determine what had occasioned such a mishap in a world
+where I had been taught to believe such things entirely out of date,
+I came to the conclusion that the Martians owe their freedom from
+many misfortunes to their ripened characters, rather than to anything
+peculiar in their physical laws. With my imperfect development I had
+made an error in judgment in taking Mona upon the water, and with my
+untrained mind I had simply made a mistake when I turned the lever of
+the electric apparatus the wrong way. The Martians had reached such high
+attainments in every direction that it was practically impossible for
+them to make mistakes. Thus had they freed themselves from many of the
+vexations which harass the people of a younger world.
+
+I was fortunately able to endure the strain of the great task which I
+had undertaken, and finally succeeded in bringing my precious burden
+to land and helping her to a place of safety. We were both pretty well
+fatigued with our exertions, but felt no danger from our wet clothes,
+because of the mild and balmy air.
+
+Mona's behavior still perplexed me. Her manner was delightfully pleasant
+and familiar. Now that we were safe she appeared to appreciate the
+humorous part of the situation, and I was loath to believe that she
+could or would affect such good nature if she were harboring unpleasant
+feelings toward me. But I could not account for her continued silence,
+for as yet no word nor sound of any kind had come from her lips. Her
+face and hands, however, were continually in motion, and after I had
+overcome my usual stupidity I discovered that she was actually making
+signs.
+
+"Why, Mona," I exclaimed, "can't you speak?"
+
+She shook her head.
+
+"Nor sing, I mean?"
+
+Another shake.
+
+"Do you mean to say you have lost your voice?"
+
+A nod.
+
+For a moment a shadow settled upon her face, occasioned, no doubt, by my
+falling countenance, for I must have shown something of the great shock
+to my feelings. Mona without the voice of Mona! I could not at once
+realize the depth of my loss. And now it was her turn to attempt to
+restore my spirits, as we fell back to our original mode of conversing.
+I urged her to make an effort to sing, and she told me she had tried
+many times, and that it had grieved her to be so unsocial while I was
+toiling so hard to save her life.
+
+"Why, my dear," I answered, "I thought you were angry with me for
+speaking to you again about my love."
+
+Her reply was a look so full of tenderness that I was almost sure
+that, if she had had her voice, she would have used it more kindly than
+before. Still it may have been only compassion.
+
+By this time we had found our carriage and were on our way home, and I
+am sure that if, on our arrival, our friends had judged from our looks,
+they would have supposed I, and not Mona, had experienced a great
+misfortune.
+
+Avis had returned to her distant home several days before this, but
+Antonia and Foedric were at Thorwald's when we arrived, and I had the
+unpleasant task of relating to the whole household our sad experience. I
+did not spare myself, although they were all kind enough to offer every
+manner of excuse for me. Everybody showed sympathy with Mona in
+all possible ways, but she herself still exhibited the same sunny
+disposition as ever, although the house seemed quiet without her bright
+and happy song.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXIII.
+
+THE EMANCIPATION OF WOMAN.
+
+
+Family life in this model home went forward without a jar. Thorwald and
+Zenith exhibited not the least sign of restraint before us, so that
+what we saw from day to day we were sure was their natural and usual
+behavior. They never worked at cross purposes, were never impatient
+nor forgetful of each other, but without effort, apparently, to avoid
+friction, they always did what was best pleasing to themselves, and at
+the same time what was just suited to each other. This happy state of
+affairs did not come from a division of labor, by which Zenith should
+have nothing to do with outside matters and Thorwald nothing to say
+about how things should go in the house, but it seemed to proceed from
+their innate love of harmony, their perfect compatibility, and their
+practical equality. The doctor and I saw there was something here far
+different from anything existing in the conjugal relation on the earth,
+but we could not decide just what it was. The doctor was strongly of the
+opinion, however, that it arose in some way from the higher condition of
+woman.
+
+"You know," he said, when we were alone, "the civilization of a people
+on our planet is pretty correctly measured by the position occupied by
+the women, so that here, in this exalted society, they must be held in
+high esteem, if there is the same analogy between the two worlds in this
+as in so many other things."
+
+I quite agreed with him, and took the first opportunity when we were all
+together to introduce the subject.
+
+"I should like to direct the conversation," I said, addressing our host
+and hostess, "to a topic of considerable interest, just now, to the
+people of the earth. I am sure we can learn something of value in
+regard to it from you, and I will introduce it, if you will pardon my
+impertinence, with a personal question. Will you please tell me who is
+the head of this household?"
+
+"Zenith."
+
+"Thorwald."
+
+Two answers in one breath.
+
+"It is very polite of you," I said, "to disclaim the honor and each one
+give it to the other, but, seriously, is there no head?"
+
+"Why, no," answered Thorwald; "we never think of such a thing, and yet
+you must admit that things run smoothly without it."
+
+"I will then try again, if you please," I said. "Which of you is the
+bread-winner?"
+
+To which Zenith replied:
+
+"That question is hardly appropriate, for you know we do not work for
+our daily bread. The bread would come anyway, whether we worked or
+not; but then, as a matter of fact, every one does work at some useful
+occupation, because we have found out by long experience that it is much
+better for us than idleness. If you reply that you have not seen us work
+while you have been here, I will say that our time is considered to be
+well employed if we can be learning anything or imparting knowledge to
+others, as this is supposed to add indirectly to the general well-being
+of society. But perhaps what you want to know is which of us does the
+more to benefit the world, and even this would be a difficult question
+to answer. Thorwald creates, we will say, an elaborate design for a
+noble cathedral, and as he watches its fair proportions rise under the
+hands of skilled men, who take an equal pride and satisfaction in their
+work, his heart is made glad by the thought that for many years after he
+has left the body the structure will be used as a place for teaching the
+way of life, with its graceful spires pointing men to heaven. While I,
+perhaps--"
+
+"Let me tell that part," interrupted Thorwald. "While Zenith, with just
+as strong a feeling of responsibility for a share of the world's work,
+composes a beautiful song and writes the music for it, and then sings it
+before a vast audience, while the phonograph catches it and holds it for
+future generations. Is she not doing as much as I am toward earning the
+bread for the family?"
+
+"It certainly cannot be denied," I answered. "But what I want to find
+out is, to use a homely expression common with us, which of you two
+holds the reins in this home?"
+
+"Well," replied Thorwald, laughing, "that is a figure of speech which is
+not employed here, for we use no reins of any kind; but I know what you
+mean, and I will answer you by saying that we each hold one rein, and in
+that way drive as steadily as if we were one person."
+
+"But when disputes arise, which one gives in?"
+
+"Disputes never arise, and if they did we would both 'give in,' whatever
+that expression means."
+
+"If not your wills, do not your wishes or inclinations sometimes oppose
+each other?"
+
+"Why, no," Thorwald answered quickly. "It is impossible, and for this
+reason: each one of us is so intent on trying to please the other that
+we are saved from all temptation to selfishness, which is the root and
+source of all differences."
+
+While I was considering what next to ask, the doctor broke in with:
+
+"I think my companion will be obliged to discontinue his questions
+and accept the truth that here we have found an ideal household, where
+husband and wife are in reality equal. Let me ask if the women, all over
+this happy world, are treated with as much consideration as in the case
+before us."
+
+"Why, what a funny question," exclaimed Zenith, before Thorwald could
+speak. "Why don't you ask if, all over this happy world, we treat our
+men with consideration and respect? But, to save you the trouble of
+asking, I will say that, all over this happy world, a man is held in
+as high esteem and is as tenderly cared for as a woman, every bit. Your
+words, Doctor, remind me that I have several times wanted to speak to
+you about a certain manner which you and your friend have exhibited
+toward me. No one could accuse you of disrespect to Thorwald; indeed, I
+think your carriage toward him is excellent, but with me you seem to be
+a little strained, and your manner is a trifle effusive. Pardon me
+for the criticism. I know your action is well meant, although it is
+something I am not accustomed to."
+
+"I suppose," said the doctor, "you refer to our feeble and, it appears,
+stupid efforts to be polite."
+
+"Oh, then I ought to feel complimented instead of finding fault with
+you. But why should you wish to be more respectful to me than to
+Thorwald? He is more worthy your regard than I am, and has as many
+rights in this house as I have, exactly."
+
+"We have been taught to pay an extra deference to women," answered the
+doctor.
+
+"Why?" asked Zenith. "Because they are superior beings?"
+
+"Hardly that, I think."
+
+"Then it must be because they are considered inferior, and you seek to
+hide your real feeling, which is one of commiseration, by a false show
+of politeness."
+
+"That sounds harsh," said the doctor, "and I believe you are not
+correct."
+
+"Oh, I do not mean to criticise you personally," Zenith made haste
+to say, "but the system. It seems to me that you, Doctor, try to be
+sincere; and assuming that to be so, let me ask you why you are
+more ceremonious in your manner to your neighbor's wife than to your
+neighbor's husband."
+
+"Well, let me see. Why do I instinctively make a special show of respect
+in meeting a woman? I never analyzed my feeling, but I will try to do
+so for you. I think one principal reason is because it is so very
+conventional that she would expect it, and think me either piqued or
+ill-bred if I omitted it. Then, deeper than that is a desire to tell her
+that I recognize in her and admire those graces and amenities which
+are supposed to be peculiar to her sex. And I suppose there is, also,
+a little selfishness in it, as if I were asking her to take note that I
+knew what were the usages of good society."
+
+"But would you not also tell her in effect by your flattery, if you will
+excuse the word, that she and the rest of her sex are by birth not quite
+equal to men, and you are trying to make up the difference all you can
+by politeness?"
+
+"I am not conscious of such a feeling, I am sure," answered the doctor.
+"It seems to me that woman is entitled to some extra attention because
+she is physically weaker than man."
+
+"True," said Zenith; "that is a good reason why she should be
+protected."
+
+"And should we not maintain and practice toward her the spirit of true
+courtesy?"
+
+"Most certainly. But women should also exercise the same spirit toward
+men. The duty is reciprocal. The days of knight-errantry, when men were
+chivalrous and women were merely beautiful, should not last forever;
+women, too, should learn to be chivalrous. Do not imagine I would have
+you less considerate or thoughtful of anyone, or less demonstrative in
+your feelings, if you will only remember that men and women are equal,
+have equal duties and privileges, and should have similar treatment.
+Great respect should go where it is deserved, whether to man or woman.
+If I were an inhabitant of the earth and a woman, I should try to have
+some such thought as this: one man of character knows another good man
+is his equal; therefore as they treat each other so I would have them
+treat me, for then I would know that they held me, also, as an equal,
+and not as a doll, pretty and well dressed perhaps, but brainless, nor
+as a child who must not be told things too deep for its mind."
+
+"I begin to understand you," said the doctor. "You first get me to admit
+that women are not a superior order of beings, and then you argue that,
+as we do not treat them exactly as we do each other, we cannot consider
+them our equals, and therefore nothing remains but that we must look
+upon them as inferior to us."
+
+Zenith gave a pleasant little pink laugh and answered:
+
+"I see you have found me out. But you do not deny that my logic is
+correct."
+
+"I have tried to tell you several times," returned the doctor, with a
+smile, "that, as for me, I do not feel guilty of harboring the least
+degrading sentiment toward women. But I cannot answer for the opinions
+of the world at large. This subject promises to be more interesting than
+we anticipated. I see you know a great deal about it. Have women always
+been accorded an equality with men, or is it a part of your mature
+development?"
+
+"Now, Doctor, just see how prejudiced you are. You would never think of
+asking if the men of Mars had always been the equal of women. It would
+be quite as natural with us to ask it in one way as the other."
+
+"I will try again, then, by asking if the two sexes have always been so
+happily equal as at this time."
+
+"I will give you a direct answer to that question. They have not. But
+I think I have talked enough for once. Thorwald will tell you all about
+our tortuous course in reaching our present condition, if you wish."
+
+"Not at all," said Thorwald. "I would like to tell it, but this is a
+topic that Zenith has taken a special interest in, and she shall have
+the pleasure of talking to you about it."
+
+"Now then!" I said to myself, "here is a difference right away. Zenith
+says Thorwald must tell it; Thorwald would like to do so, but insists on
+sacrificing himself for Zenith's sake. Now, what if Zenith should prefer
+the pleasure of self-denial, and refuse to let Thorwald immolate his
+desire so readily? What could prevent war in this happy family? Would a
+quarrel be any less a quarrel because its cause was unselfishness rather
+than selfishness?"
+
+But if I, with a worldly heart, was expecting a lapse from these
+excellent people, I was disappointed, for Zenith, with a look of wifely
+affection toward Thorwald, said pleasantly:
+
+"Very well, since Thorwald is so kind, I will do my best, if you are
+sure you will not tire of hearing me talk."
+
+The doctor and I expressed our pleasure with the arrangement, and Zenith
+began:
+
+"I wish to say at the start that, whatever may have been your experience
+on this question, it is hardly possible that your mistakes have equaled
+ours, for the folly and wickedness of our race have been stupendous and
+of long continuance."
+
+"If you will excuse the interruption," I said, "I will suggest that we
+can sympathize with you, as our history shows the greatest injustice to
+women."
+
+"Your remark proves to me that you cannot fully sympathize with us. I
+did not infer, as you seem to do, that the women of Mars had been the
+only victims of injustice.
+
+"But without further delay let me begin, only do not hesitate to break
+in upon my story with any inquiries that suggest themselves to you.
+
+"We read that God created man, male and female; that is, there came
+forth from the hand of the Maker a male man and a female man, and all
+through that early age of gold they loved each other, and served their
+God with purity of heart and without a selfish thought. God was their
+father, they were his children, with equal privileges, equal affection,
+and equal ability to do faithful service. No evil spirit was near
+to whisper in the ear of either a suggestion of personal leadership.
+Ambition, that ambition which would exalt self at the expense of
+another, was not yet born, and neither of these happy beings could
+conceive it possible to achieve a higher happiness by lording it over
+the other.
+
+"So they lived till sin came; and among the woes which sin brought in
+its train there were few more dreadful than the decree that the man
+should rule over the woman and that her desire should be unto her
+husband. For thousands of years our race struggled against that giant
+evil. During a long period the condition of woman was so low that we
+know nothing of her, and when she reappears it is only as the servant
+of man. Made in the image of God as the companion of man and an equal
+sharer in all his rights and duties, she is now his chattel, a piece of
+property, held for his selfish use or disposed of for his advantage.
+
+"Even in these dark days individuals of our sex rose out of the general
+degradation and showed that they were fitted by nature for a higher
+position. But sin and ignorance kept the mass of them under the heel of
+their masters. As civilization advanced there came some mitigation of
+their lot, and where pure religion gained a foothold women began to
+receive recognition; but their state was deplorable indeed among all
+those peoples whose religion was only gross superstition and idolatry.
+
+"In the process of time Christ came and brought the light of heaven
+to this dark world, and from that hour woman can well say that her day
+began to dawn. One of the sweetest strains in her song of salvation is
+that evoked by the memory of her resurrection from misery and abasement
+to a position of honor among the children of men. The change, however,
+was very gradual, for Christianity itself was slow in gaining ground;
+but the gospel was ever the friend of woman, as of all the oppressed,
+lifting her up where she could influence the world and begin to fulfill
+her destiny. As fast as the nations shook off barbarism and became
+in any degree enlightened, the unnatural burdens were lifted from
+the shoulders of woman, although for a long time she was compelled to
+perform more than her share of severe toil even among people who thought
+themselves civilized.
+
+"Then came a time when, in nations of some refinement, there was such
+a reaction against the injustice and degradation to which woman had so
+long been subjected that she suddenly became an object of sentimental
+regard among courtly men. Her noble qualities were exaggerated far
+beyond their merit, and she was set on a pedestal, to receive homage and
+all the outward forms of respect from those whom she so recently served
+as a menial. Being so poorly fitted by her long training in serfdom
+for such exaltation, what wonder is it that her head was turned by the
+flattery, and that her recovery was slow and difficult? The insincere
+and superfluous manners of that period remained for ages a vexation to
+our growing intelligence and a hindrance to our true progress; and,
+from what you have said, I am inclined to think you of the earth are now
+going through some such experience as ours.
+
+"After that epoch had been passed, woman never fell back to her former
+condition, although she did not yet for a long time reach a position
+that was at all enviable, except as compared with the dark days of her
+bondage. But she was now where she could take advantage of the general
+uplifting of the race, and though kept in the background by man as much
+as was possible, she was constantly growing and learning, preparing
+herself for a future of which she would then dare not even to dream.
+
+"And now I am coming, in this rapid sketch, to that period of activity
+and change which Thorwald has described to you in its industrial
+features. In portraying some of the evils of those days, arising from
+our almost ineradicable selfishness, he was obliged to make his picture
+a somber one, a necessity under which, happily, I am not placed. Looking
+at the times, not as compared with the present era but with what had
+gone before, which was the only comparison the people of that day could
+make, there was much room for encouragement. It was, in truth, a bright
+day, whose beauty, however, consisted not so much in the realization
+of happiness as in the promise of still brighter days to come. Material
+prosperity abounded, education flourished, and religion was beginning
+to creep down from men's heads into their hearts. Wrongs were righted,
+justice enthroned, and philanthropy sprang into being. Even while there
+was so much evil, and while some men seemed to be trying all they
+could to keep back the breaking dawn, the day was surely coming. The
+brotherhood of man, long preached as a settled principle, now became
+a living force, showing itself in a multitude of devices for relieving
+distress, lessening pain, alleviating poverty, and for the general
+betterment of society.
+
+"Surrounded by such a universal spirit of improvement, woman felt the
+impulse of new life, and heard the call to a higher service to humanity
+than she had ever yet rendered. As men's minds broadened and their
+hearts grew more tender, and as their sympathies reached out to the weak
+and down-trodden of every class, it was not possible that their ancient
+prejudice against woman could much longer survive. Her rise from this
+time forward was rapid. Let us examine the position which, under the
+influence of this kindly feeling, she soon came to occupy. Protected by
+many special laws, guarded by all the legitimate forces of society, but
+exempt from military and police service, honored for her high and noble
+qualities, respected by all whose regard was of value, and loved with a
+true affection which scorned the question of individual rights, her lot
+seemed indeed a happy one. Shielded from the severe struggles of life,
+freed from the cares of business, released in a great measure from
+uncongenial work and from the dangers attending exacting labor, with the
+disagreeable things in life kept from her as much as possible, always
+seeing the best of every man's character and manners, and, more than
+all, being supreme in her natural domain, the home, with none to dispute
+her right, what more could she ask?"
+
+"What, indeed?" I remarked, as Zenith paused a moment after her
+question. "The picture you have drawn looks so bright, beside your
+description of her former lot, that I have no doubt she was now
+contented and happy."
+
+"So you think that shelter and protection and the love of husband and
+children and the serenity of home ought to be enough to satisfy one
+who was created with a spirit as restless, a brain as active, an
+individuality as marked, and hands as clever as those of man?"
+
+As Zenith threw this question at me and waited for me to answer, I
+realized that I had been caught by her former inquiry, and found not
+that Zenith was about to take advanced ground on the subject before
+us. Wishing I had not drawn her attention so squarely to my personal
+opinions, and yet feeling obliged to stand up for my position, I said:
+
+"It seems to me that woman's surest path to honor and happiness is that
+marked out for her by nature, a path which she adorns because so well
+fitted for it, and that to forsake the home and compete with man for
+the thousand places in the work of the world would be to cast aside the
+charm of her womanliness and all that makes her what she is, a solace
+and comfort to all the world. If she seeks for a pleasurable life, where
+can she find such keen and lasting pleasure as among the duties of home,
+and if she is ambitious to lift the world to a higher plane, where is
+it possible for her to have so much influence as in the nurture of the
+young?"
+
+"So spoke the men of our race in the era I am describing to you,"
+replied Zenith. "It seems as if you must have been reading some of our
+old writers, so closely do you follow the ideas then prevalent. I have
+read and reread those histories until I am quite familiar with them,
+and you shall hear how such views as you have expressed soon became very
+old-fashioned."
+
+"I am sure your account will closely concern us," I said, "for the age
+of which you are now speaking must be that corresponding to our own
+times on the earth. The woman question is attracting special attention,
+and seems bound to remain with us indefinitely; but I am frank to say I
+think our women are making a mistake in trying to elbow their way into
+man's domain, whatever may have been the result of the movement in this
+favored world."
+
+"I suppose you would have them stay at home where they belong,"
+said Zenith, with a good-natured laugh, which sounded as if she were
+confident enough of her ability to meet any possible argument.
+
+"Yes," I replied, "out of pure kindness to them. It is an astonishing
+thing to me that they can think of gaining anything by giving up all
+that is distinctive in their nature and becoming more like us. I am not
+so much in love with my own sex as to enjoy seeing our sisters and our
+wives and daughters trying to make themselves over into men."
+
+I now felt that I had said enough, and so expressed myself to Zenith,
+but she replied pleasantly that she was glad I had told my thoughts, as
+it gave her an opportunity to say some things that might not otherwise
+have been called for.
+
+"You seem to think," she continued, "that woman's supreme happiness is
+to be gained by self-effacement. I suppose her custom is with you, as it
+formerly was here, to renounce her own name at the marriage altar."
+
+"It is," I replied.
+
+"And from that hour," resumed Zenith, "she makes every effort to bury
+herself, to deny her personality, and to lay aside whatever individual
+desires and aspirations she may have had; that is, if she is what
+you would call a true woman. If she objects to this renunciation and
+attempts to make an independent career suited to her talents, then she
+is strong-minded and is trying to unsex herself. With the world full of
+work waiting for her nimble fingers and loving heart, she is compelled
+to suppress all secret hope of doing something to impress her own
+character on that world, because her only duty is in the home. A man is
+also called upon to be a good husband and father, but that by no means
+comprises all he is expected to be and do. To him it is given to strike
+out into untrodden fields, and, without reproach, to make a name for
+himself if possible.
+
+"You say work is hard and disagreeable, but is it all dull and
+uninteresting? Are there not sweet moments of hope in every work, and
+then the joy of achievement when it is over? Do not men find this joy
+and the rewards of labor amply sufficient? The more difficult the
+task, the greater the satisfaction when it is accomplished. Business is
+perplexing and uncertain, you say, but what of the triumphs of success?
+Would any man refuse to undertake an enterprise because success was not
+certain? The very uncertainty adds zest to the business, and makes
+hope possible. From all this striving and achieving, and from all the
+satisfying rewards which come with success, woman is debarred. Then
+there are the professions and the wide range of occupations which
+require education and special training. What a variety for man to choose
+from, while you would confine woman to one; and a great many women, not
+being born good cooks or good housekeepers, cannot fill that one with
+any credit to themselves. So what can life be to them compared with
+what it ought to be? Think of the opportunities they might have in these
+higher occupations of competing for the prizes of life--honor, fame,
+position, riches, and, above all, the consciousness of doing some good
+in the world. Oh, it is impossible for you to realize anything of the
+longing in woman's heart to be someone, to do something, and so to be
+relieved from the everlasting monotony of the treadmill, which, if men
+were obliged to submit to it, would make the majority of them insane.
+
+"You see I have put myself in the place of one of my sex in that olden
+time, and have spoken as she felt when to express her feelings would
+have been almost a shame to her.
+
+"What I desire to show you is that woman had not then received all that
+was due her, although men seemed to think she was fully emancipated. But
+events moved rapidly in that stirring age, and this great question could
+not be kept in the background in a day when every abuse and injustice
+was allowed a hearing and reform was in the very air. Even the dumb
+beasts had such powerful advocates that cruelty and unkindness
+were greatly checked. What wonder then, as men's sensibilities and
+consciences became quickened, that they should begin to see, what they
+could not see before, that a fuller liberty ought to be accorded to
+woman? But this vision came not without help. Sometimes in our history
+we have known of a race being deprived of their freedom, and so benumbed
+by their condition that they desired nothing better, and so perforce
+waited for a movement for their enfranchisement to come from without. It
+was not so in this case. Women themselves cried out against their
+lot. They were not so enraptured with the calm and quiet of their
+conventional life but that they felt the stirrings of ambition for
+something different, and they did not fear to raise their voice for more
+liberty."
+
+"Liberty!" I echoed. "Were they really deprived of liberty?"
+
+"Yes, liberty to choose a calling that would suit their individual
+tastes and satisfy their growing ambition."
+
+"Excuse me," I again interrupted, "but were not these women who
+exhibited so much restlessness unattached--that is, without many family
+ties? And were not the great majority so contented in the shelter of
+home and so engrossed in the care of husband and children that they were
+entire strangers to any such disturbing fancies, or ambitions as you
+call them? And, again, did not this large class of happy and busy wives
+and mothers resent the action of those self-appointed liberators who
+were fighting for an image of straw and crying themselves hoarse over
+imaginary wrongs?"
+
+Zenith smiled again in that peculiar manner which told me, in the
+pleasantest possible way, that she was perfectly sure I was on the
+losing side, and with the smile she resumed:
+
+"Your questions are so familiar to one who has studied this subject that
+they seem like another plagiarism, as it were, from our histories, but I
+will give you fair answers.
+
+"It is true that the early protests came from the solitary women,
+unfortunately not a small class at that day, who, being without legal
+protectors, felt the inequalities of the law and the unjust restraints
+put upon their sex by society, but the truths they spoke came with added
+force because of their intimate acquaintance with their needs.
+
+"You are wrong in your supposition that the mass of women were so
+shallow in mind as to know nothing of those longings for a fuller, more
+satisfying life. Deep in their nature, planted by the Creator himself,
+was the same lofty spirit with which man was endowed, and it could not
+be smothered by marriage. Taking a husband should not, and in reality
+does not now, change one's ambition or aim in life any more than taking
+a wife does, but in those benighted days men, after marriage, could
+go forward with their plans just as if nothing had happened, while
+the women were supposed to forget their high hopes and aspirations and
+confine themselves entirely to the trivial round of domestic duties.
+The men, however, were much mistaken if they thought their wives were
+forgetting. They but bided their time.
+
+"In your last question you are not altogether wrong, for there were a
+few unthinking ones who joined with some of the men in ridiculing the
+whole movement as unnecessary and foolish. But this class had not much
+influence, and, in spite of such opposition as they offered, the reform
+made steady progress.
+
+"As a help to obtain what she was striving for, woman asked for the
+right of suffrage, and thereupon had to undergo a fusillade of cheap
+criticism from those who would not understand her, and who supposed she
+wanted this privilege as an end and not as a means. Men were slow to
+grant the right to vote, but after much discussion suffrage began to be
+allowed in matters where the women were particularly interested. With
+the first concession, however, men realized that the force of all their
+arguments was broken, and before many years the full right was bestowed.
+
+"And now, Thorwald, I am sure our good friends did not come so far from
+home to hear me talk all the time. The rest of the subject concerns
+your sex as much as mine, and you had better take up the story at this
+point."
+
+"Oh, no," replied Thorwald, "I shall not take the narrative away from
+you now, you may be sure, for what is left is just the part you can best
+relate. I shall enjoy it as much as our friends from the earth. But I
+propose that we hear the rest this afternoon, and that, in the meantime,
+we go out for a drive."
+
+"A drive," I asked, "what do you drive?"
+
+"You shall see," Thorwald answered, as he stepped to the telephone. I
+thought I should hear his message, but found the instrument had been
+further improved. In the use of the telephone as I had known it,
+everybody in the house was much surer of hearing what was said than the
+person at the other end of the line was, but here the one addressed was
+the only one to get a word of the communication.
+
+Thorwald talked to us a short time about other matters, and then asked
+us all to prepare to go out. When we reached the door the doctor and I
+were surprised to see a beautiful and commodious carriage, to which were
+attached, with the lightest possible harness, four of the handsomest
+horses we had ever seen. There were, besides, two fine saddle-horses for
+the children, who were to accompany us.
+
+Thorwald drove, but without rein or whip, the horses being guided
+perfectly and easily merely by word of mouth. The animals were also so
+large and strong that they seemed to enjoy the sport as much as we did.
+
+"Do you mean to say," I inquired, "that such a turnout as this can be
+had for the asking?"
+
+"Certainly. I just said through the telephone that I would like a
+carriage for four persons, and two saddle-horses. The man who has the
+care of the horses is a friend of mine who likes the work better than
+anything else."
+
+"The horses appear to be well broken," the doctor remarked.
+
+"Broken," said Zenith, "what do you mean by that, Doctor?"
+
+"Why, it is an expression by which we mean that the high spirit with
+which they were born has been subdued, making it easy to train them to
+obedience."
+
+"They must be wild, then," spoke Zenith again, "and you are obliged to
+tame them. The difference here is that the horses are born tame and do
+not need breaking, and though they have plenty of spirit, as you see,
+they are so intelligent and have such solidity of character that there
+is never any danger that they will become unmanageable."
+
+"That must be so," said I, "or you could not be sure of being free from
+accidents. But tell us, Thorwald, how it happens that we have not seen
+others enjoying this delightful mode of traveling."
+
+"It is not very singular that you have not seen any horses before," said
+Thorwald. "They have been entirely superseded in all kinds of business,
+you remember, by mechanical power, and even for pleasure-riding most
+people are too tender of heart to enjoy using them. They fear the horses
+will be fatigued, and they do not like to see them straining themselves
+in dragging a heavy load, when there is a force that has no feeling
+ready to do it a great deal better.
+
+"But you can see these horses are not working very hard, and it is a
+good thing for us sometimes to give up a little sentiment. There is some
+danger that our sympathies may carry us too far. For instance, it is
+probably a real kindness to these horses to give them a little work, if
+we are only careful not to render their service galling to them; and yet
+there are many people who never drive, on account of the feeling they
+have for the beasts."
+
+"It would be a good thing if we had more of that sentiment on the
+earth," said the doctor.
+
+[Illustration: "THE HORSES ARE BORN TAME"]
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXIV.
+
+THE EMANCIPATION OF MAN.
+
+
+After an exhilarating ride, in which the doctor and I, certainly, were
+not troubled by any over-sensitiveness in regard to such robust horses,
+we returned to the house and soon found ourselves seated in the music
+room listening to one of their famous dramatists reciting his own words
+through the phonograph. Next we had some music, and then a poem, from
+the same prolific instrument.
+
+When this entertainment was over, and after lunch, Zenith, at our urgent
+request, seconded by Thorwald's solicitation, resumed her narrative.
+
+"We read," she began, "that during the time when men were grudgingly
+bestowing the right of suffrage on our sex, woman was making rapid
+strides toward a position in society fitted to her talents and
+aspirations. One occupation after another became available, and it was
+no longer a disgrace or hardly a peculiarity for women to be earning
+their living instead of depending for support on their fathers or
+brothers. This tended to create in them a feeling of independence,
+and in many employments they had every right to be proud of their
+attainments, for, with so little training, they often surpassed the
+men at their own trades. Even then, however, some of the old
+prejudice against the sex seemed to remain in force, since women were
+discriminated against in the matter of wages. When they did the same
+work and did it better, still their pay was less than that of men. But
+this was a temporary injustice, which disappeared, as it was bound to
+do, when woman had acquired her full freedom and had been in the field
+long enough to prove her right and ability to stay.
+
+"The work at which women excelled was that requiring a quick
+intelligence, nimble fingers, and the faculty of easy adaptability. In
+the realm of physical strength woman was not a competitor, but there was
+another field in which she more than made up for that loss, and in which
+she early began to show great native ability. That was in all pursuits
+demanding the education of the mind. Here is where she was to look for
+the greatest of her victories. Nature had endowed man with a superior
+strength of body and muscle, but woman with a higher order of mind."
+
+"I must interrupt you here, Zenith," said the doctor. "This is assuredly
+an instance where your race differs materially from that of the earth,
+for with us man has by nature the stronger mind."
+
+"How do you know?" asked Zenith.
+
+"It has been proved so in all ages."
+
+"Yes, but does not the expression 'all ages' include with you only the
+ages in which man has been the ruling spirit, and woman has been kept
+down and allowed but little opportunity to show the strength of her
+mental faculties? You know our history takes in not only a period
+similar to that covered by your whole career, but also other ages which
+we believe correspond with the years yet to come for the inhabitants of
+the earth. It has been during the latter era, a time which you have not
+yet seen, that woman has proved the truth of my assertion."
+
+"I wish to make myself understood," said the doctor again. "I am willing
+to grant the equality of the sexes, as far as natural rights go; that
+is, that every man and every woman ought to have the opportunity to
+develop all their talents, untrammeled by any edict or convention of
+society. Perhaps I would agree with you also in believing it would
+be better to treat men and women alike, with open-hearted, sincere
+courtesy, and use equal ceremony in showing respect to individuals of
+either sex. But it seems to me that there is a vast difference between
+all that and your latest position. There are many people of our
+generation on the earth, and their number is rapidly increasing, who
+believe in the essential equality of the sexes, but I never heard one
+put forward anything approaching the claim you make, that woman was
+created with a higher order of mind than man--I believe that was your
+expression; and this is why I say that in this particular your race
+differs greatly from ours."
+
+To which Zenith replied:
+
+"I am not so sure of that, my dear doctor. It would seem hardly fair
+that man should be given both physical and mental superiority. But
+please tell me again why you think man has the stronger mind."
+
+"Because he has done the thinking of the world. The intellectual
+achievements of woman, though occasionally brilliant, are not to be
+compared with those of man. This is true in every department throughout
+our history--in science and art, in religion, in literature, in
+government, and in everything that I could name. It is hardly to
+the point for you to say that woman would have done more if she had
+possessed a fuller freedom; perhaps it is true, but it seems to me a
+matter of conjecture. Neither is it a complete answer for you to
+say that in the years to come woman, being wholly enfranchised, will
+revolutionize the world by her unexpected powers. We can judge only by
+what she has done. Excuse me, Zenith, for trying to uphold my point.
+It is rather discouraging, when I can see by your face that you can
+demolish my argument in a moment, whenever you choose to attempt it."
+
+We all laughed at the doctor's want of courage, and Zenith answered:
+
+"I beg your pardon; I am greatly at fault if I have any such expression
+in my face. My confidence, if I have any, is not in any supposed ability
+I may have in conversation, but in our experience here on Mars. Your
+history matches ours so well up to your generation that I cannot but
+think the likeness will continue; and if it does, then woman, in your
+near future, will prove the truth of my statement. But before I proceed
+to tell you what she has done in this world, let me ask you if your
+women have shown any mental peculiarity which distinguishes them from
+men."
+
+"Yes," answered the doctor, "their intuitive perceptions appear to be
+more developed than those of men, probably because they use them more.
+A man may reach a certain conclusion by a course of reasoning, while
+a woman will often arrive at the same point much quicker by intuition.
+That is, a man will tell you why he knows a thing, when a woman simply
+knows it because she knows it."
+
+"Is that faculty akin to anything else with which you are acquainted?"
+
+"Yes, we call it instinct in animals."
+
+"Is not the possession by woman of that quality a silent but powerful
+suggestion to you of the fact that she was treated like an animal in the
+dark days of her inthrallment?"
+
+"I had not thought of it," returned the doctor, "but it certainly may be
+looked upon as a sad commentary on that rude age."
+
+"Do you consider this instinct an advantage to woman?" asked Zenith.
+
+"Certainly; it is a great help to her, often serving with much success
+in place of other faculties."
+
+"Would it be a valuable quality to add to man's mental equipment?"
+
+"Yes, indeed, if he could retain all his other powers of mind."
+
+"Well, now let me ask you what would come to pass if the women of the
+earth, possessed already of that quickness of thought, that ability to
+discern the truth by direct apprehension, should, by thorough education
+and many years of patient training, acquire the power of reasoning, the
+judgment, the strength of mind, and all the intellectual powers now held
+by your men?"
+
+"That is a very large 'if,' and I cannot tell you what would happen,"
+answered the doctor.
+
+"I have only described," continued Zenith, "what actually took place on
+our planet. When the movement for giving woman a higher education began,
+men looked at the subject just as you do now. Women were supposed to be
+of inferior mental capacity, and it was thought to be a foolish thing to
+attempt to educate them. 'Better educate the boys,' men said, 'and let
+the girls learn to cook and sew and to play the piano; that is all that
+will ever be required of them.' But, in spite of every discouragement,
+the girls improved their opportunities so well that they were soon
+taking the prizes away from the boys. Broadminded philanthropists of
+both sexes endowed schools for them, and the highest institutions of
+learning opened their doors to them. When the young women, almost from
+the start, began to be successful in competitive contests in different
+departments of scholarship, it was generally thought that such cases
+were exceptional and would not be apt to be repeated very often. But
+this was a great mistake. These instances proved to be no exception. It
+was found that woman's facility of thought and native acuteness gave her
+an immense advantage over the masculine mind in mastering any ordinary
+course of study. But this was surface education. The reasoning power
+and the solidity of mind for which men were distinguished in mature life
+came later, but they came.
+
+"At first, only here and there a girl was fortunate enough to be offered
+a liberal education; but when it was found that in almost every instance
+they brought great credit on themselves, the number increased with
+rapidity, until a college course was the customary and expected close of
+almost every girl's school-days. For it was not the rich only that had
+this advantage, since by this time education was free, being provided
+either by the public or by universities richly endowed.
+
+"All this time the boys seemed to find a great attraction in business
+and the trades, and appeared to be willing that the girls should have a
+monopoly of the higher education. One circumstance that greatly helped
+this state of things was the extraordinary furor that prevailed just
+then in the matter of manual training. This system had received more or
+less attention from educators for many years, and it had been introduced
+into schools as an addition to the regular course of study. That was
+a material age. Men desired first of all to be practical, and the
+new method of teaching, being eminently practical, became exceedingly
+popular with the boys. The parents, not dreaming where it would end,
+and seeing the eager interest with which their sons now crowded into the
+schools, encouraged them in it.
+
+"Schools of technique, in which the literary branches were entirely
+subordinate, sprang up on every hand, and two or three years spent
+in these institutions took the place of a college course. The old
+universities tried to meet the changing sentiment by paying more
+attention to science, by giving the students a free choice of studies,
+and by shortening the course when desired. But the mechanical idea in
+the new education seemed to be the attraction. The boys were seized
+with a passion for doing something with their hands, and their inventive
+faculties were quickened, increasing in a remarkable degree their
+interest in their work and studies.
+
+"For a long time this movement was thought to be a great advance in
+education. It was such an improvement on the old way, to find the young
+men learning something useful, rather than wasting their time over the
+dead languages and other things they would never need after finishing
+school. And it must be acknowledged that all this industrial impulse
+was of advantage to the world in its way. It multiplied labor-saving
+machinery, added to the people's comforts in many ways, and increased
+the general prosperity and well-being of society as far as material
+improvements could do it.
+
+"But there was another side to the picture. So much time could not be
+given to training the hand and hardening the muscle without detracting
+from the attention due to the cultivation of the brain. To be sure, the
+brain was active enough, but it was receiving a one-sided development,
+which boded it no permanent good.
+
+"I have spoken at such length of this almost universal rage for
+technical education, because it was a chief factor in turning the world
+over."
+
+We all smiled at this expression, and the doctor asked:
+
+"How did it overturn the world?"
+
+"By aiding in taking the real brain work away from the men and giving it
+to the women."
+
+"Did this actually happen?"
+
+"Certainly it did. Not in a day, but in the process of time. How could
+it be otherwise, when the women alone had been for many years going
+through that long, patient mind-drilling which is the only preparation
+for a thorough education? When the young men observed that a civil
+engineer, a superintendent of a factory, or even a skilled mechanic
+could earn a larger salary than a college graduate, it took away much of
+the incentive for the old-fashioned education, and they were perfectly
+willing to see their sisters take what they had not time for.
+
+"And so it came about that the women began to crowd into the learned
+professions; and, as there was not one which they could not adorn, the
+prejudice against them soon wore off, and before many years they were
+competing with men in all the grandest fields of human action. Even in
+the matter of government woman's power was felt. Men were so engrossed
+in the endeavor to develop to their fullest extent the material
+resources of the planet that they became careless of the higher duties
+of citizenship, especially after the women began to take control of
+things. They saw affairs were well managed, and seemed to be relieved to
+have them taken out of their hands, not dreaming that they were forging
+chains for themselves which it would take long years to break. Although
+the world was constantly growing better, it was far from a perfect age.
+Human nature was still a synonym for selfishness, and with men and
+women measuring swords on every intellectual battlefield a contest for
+supremacy was inevitable.
+
+"Man was absorbed in his chosen work, he was indifferent to public
+affairs, and he was, in his way, proud of the position woman was taking
+in the world, but he could not let her assume his place as acknowledged
+leader without a struggle. He said he had given her her rights, and now
+she wanted to deprive him of his rights.
+
+"There was too much truth in this, for society had not reached a state
+where the sexes could live in perfect equality. It was admitted by all
+that there must be a head, both in the household and in the state, and
+it long remained a question which should rule. But was there ever a
+struggle of long continuance on the earth in which mind did not triumph
+at last?"
+
+"I must answer in the negative," replied the doctor, "although I
+perceive it will help your argument."
+
+"Why, this is not an argument," continued Zenith. "It is simply a story
+of what has taken place on this planet. If you have any doubt of it,
+ask Thorwald. You have known him longer than you have me, and, perhaps,
+would have more confidence in what he would say. He ought to have told
+this part of the story himself. I know you think I am exaggerating,
+because you see I am making my sex come out ahead."
+
+Zenith said this in a playful manner, which showed she was as far as
+possible from being offended, but the doctor pretended to take her
+seriously, and replied with feeling:
+
+"Do forgive me, Zenith, for my thoughtless expression, and pray do not
+stop in your narrative at this interesting point. I will tell you how I
+came to use the word to which you object. While you were talking I was
+thinking how one would be received on the earth, who should attempt an
+argument to show the probability that anything like what you are telling
+us should ever come to pass there."
+
+"Well, how would such an argument be received?" asked Zenith.
+
+"It would probably be passed by without any notice whatever, if you will
+excuse me for telling the truth," answered the doctor. "It certainly
+would not be looked upon as serious, and I fear it would not even
+receive the dignity of being called funny. Even the women would laugh
+feebly at the extravagant notion, and think no more of it. But we were
+talking of Mars, not of the earth, and I am exceedingly anxious to know
+how affairs progressed here, though there is no likelihood that they
+will ever be paralleled among us."
+
+"I would not be too sure, Doctor," spoke up Thorwald. "Better wait till
+Zenith is through."
+
+"I shall wait longer than that before I believe the earth will ever go
+through such an experience. But now I am ready to listen."
+
+"When I speak of woman assuming leadership," resumed Zenith, "do not
+misunderstand me. Although society was not perfect, still it was not a
+gross age, and there was no return to the manners of those rude times
+when women were cruelly treated and men took all the good in the world
+to themselves. Oh, no, there was no absence of good manners. Women
+treated men with the greatest courtesy, showing them every mark of
+outward respect, and being much more polite to them than to each other.
+And it was not all show, either; for, in spite of the fact that the men
+were patronized unmercifully, the women really thought a great deal of
+them, and often remarked to each other that the world would be a dull
+and uninviting place without them. They admired their robust strength
+of body, their brawny arms and well-trained hands, as well as their many
+excellent qualities of mind; and they never tired of telling them in
+honeyed words how necessary they were to their happiness.
+
+"The women were very considerate also in the matter of laws. The rights
+of the men were well looked after. To be sure, they were not allowed
+to vote and hold office, but in their fortunate, happy condition it was
+incredible that they should care about a little thing like that. Were
+they not perfectly protected by the law, and did they not have as much
+to do already as was good for them? The women argued that if the men
+were given the right of suffrage it would only be the cranks who would
+avail themselves of it, for the great mass of the men were perfectly
+satisfied with their condition.
+
+"A man was allowed the right of dower in his deceased wife's estate, and
+he could hold property in his own right, even after marriage. His wife
+could not even deed away her real estate without his consent. By this
+you see how carefully the men were shielded from the liability of coming
+to want.
+
+"In matters of the heart it was not considered modest for a man to make
+a direct proposal, but in reality the affair was in his hands, for no
+woman could make any advance unless she received encouragement from the
+object of her affections."
+
+"How about the home?" asked the doctor. "Did man take the place of woman
+there?"
+
+"He did whatever he was asked to do in the home. You must know that at
+this time domestic duties were quite different from what they formerly
+were. Men had not given up all their thought and time to handicraft for
+nothing. The drudgery had pretty well disappeared under the full play of
+the inventive faculties, so that the home duties were not exacting.
+What work there was, was shared by the sexes, each doing that which was
+appropriate. The management of the home was, of course, in the hands of
+the women."
+
+"Was there no department in which the men were masters?" inquired the
+doctor.
+
+"Not one. They thought they were in full charge in their peculiar field
+of labor, but here, as everywhere, the women dictated their terms when
+they chose."
+
+The doctor was bound to learn all he could about this curious state of
+things, and asked again:
+
+"What effect did all this strain upon the mind have on woman's physical
+nature? You have admitted that she was weaker in body than man, and it
+seems to me she must have been ill prepared for the struggle you have
+narrated. From the experience we have had in educating women, we believe
+it is a positive injury to them to attempt to reach that high degree of
+culture which is easily and safely compassed by men. Our idea is that
+nature never intended that they should study much, for their minds
+are really not any stronger than their bodies. Too much brain work has
+already ruined the health of a good many girls, and when we left the
+earth the reaction against the higher education of woman had fairly
+begun. For we believe that her mental faculties can be developed only at
+the expense of her physical powers, and that if she were to persist in
+such an abnormal cultivation of her intellect it would be sure to result
+in the deterioration of her offspring and disaster to the race. So, for
+the sake of the generations unborn, we--that is, the male men of the
+earth--who still retain our grip on affairs, have about decided to put a
+stop to this foolish mania among our young women. We will probably pass
+laws, setting a limit in the several branches of study beyond which
+girls shall not be allowed to go, either at school or privately."
+
+We all laughed heartily at this idea, including the doctor himself, who
+continued:
+
+"Well, what else can we do to stop them? Stop them we must, or we shall
+soon become a race of weaklings and mental imbeciles."
+
+Thorwald had been getting more and more interested, as I could see by
+his face, and now broke out with:
+
+"Doctor, you surprise me. I have acquired such a respect for your
+intelligence that I can hardly believe you serious. If Zenith will
+excuse me, I should like to answer your question. Hard study did not
+hurt our young women, and it never hurts anyone. It is careless living
+and a disregard of the laws of health that do the harm. Physical
+training was an important part of the education of our women. They could
+never have accomplished what they did without sound bodies, and it must
+be unnecessary for me to say that the more highly cultured they became
+the more our race improved. Learning never made poor mothers. Ignorance
+does that. Do not keep education out of the home. Keep out folly, low
+desires, sordid ambitions, uncultivated tastes, narrow-mindedness, envy,
+strife, wastefulness, inordinate pleasures, and every evil thing that
+comes from an empty, ignorant mind. Keep out the darkness; let in the
+light. It is not God's way to give capacity and desire for noble things,
+and then shut the door to their attainment."
+
+"Many thanks, Thorwald," exclaimed Zenith, "for your good help. And now,
+Doctor, will you ask anything further?"
+
+"I must admit," answered the doctor, "that your experience gives you
+more knowledge of the subject than we possess, and perhaps we are wrong.
+Of course, we want that to come to pass which will be best for our race.
+But let me ask if the gentler sex, as we call them, did not lose, by
+such superior culture, their gentleness and their charm. The masculine
+type of woman is not at all popular with us."
+
+"This question, Doctor," answered Zenith, "shows that you have a poor
+conception of our condition at that time. This great change in society
+had been gradual, and I must remind you that by the time it was
+accomplished the world was much improved in every way, although, as we
+have seen, it was by no means perfect. In her treatment of man there was
+none of that domineering spirit which you might expect; and the victory
+she had achieved was never used harshly. Her reign, if firm, was mild.
+And woman herself, in the general betterment of things, had improved,
+even in the direction you mention. Instead of becoming less womanly, in
+her changed condition, every admirable quality in her had ripened toward
+perfection, while she had thrown off much that was disagreeable and
+unlovely in her disposition. In personal appearance the advance had been
+remarkable. Being relieved of the severe labor and sordid cares which
+were once her lot, and with her mind set free by high culture and her
+artistic tastes developed, nature asserted itself by making her truly
+a delight to the eye and a comfort to the heart of mankind. Whatever
+charms she possessed in her old life were now doubled, making her indeed
+a blessing to the world and preparing her for the next great change,
+which came with the advent of the present age."
+
+"In spite of the sweetness and beauty surrounding them, did not men fret
+at the firm hand that held them down?"
+
+"At first, yes. But as time went on it came to be looked upon so
+naturally that it was hardly thought of as a thing which should not be."
+
+"How long did such a state of things continue?"
+
+"It continued until our race had outgrown all such trivial things as
+selfish ambition and personal strife, until our characters had ripened
+for a higher service than the old world had ever dreamed of, and until
+love reigned in our hearts, supreme and unquestionable."
+
+"What makes the situation seem so strange to you is because it is so
+contrary to your experience. Let me see if I cannot make it look more
+reasonable to you by epitomizing our history on the subject in this way:
+
+"Our career is made up of three eras. The first was one of brute force,
+when man ruled by strength of body and subdued the world to our use.
+Everything weaker than himself, even woman, his natural helper, was made
+to feel the power of his arm. This age lasted long, but its rigor slowly
+passed away, and it merged gradually into the second era, which was
+one of mind. Here, too, man thought to rule, claiming the leadership
+by right of possession and natural endowment. But woman's sharpness
+of intellect was more than a match for him when it was given full
+opportunity, and she won, as we have seen, after a long struggle. The
+third and present era is a spiritual one. In the realm of the spirit men
+and women are equally endowed, and hence it is that in this age you find
+the two sexes living in perfect equality.
+
+"Comparing the words you have spoken with what I have read of our
+history, I conclude that the earth is now passing from the first to the
+second era. The struggle is on. Soon your sex will be considering the
+question of the emancipation of man. You have the sincere sympathy of
+both Thorwald and myself, and that you may emerge from your trials as
+happily as we have from ours is our heartfelt wish."
+
+Zenith closed, and the doctor was silent.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXV.
+
+AN EXALTED THEME.
+
+
+The doctor and I had not forgotten that Thorwald still held in store for
+us a talk on the most important theme of all. We wondered why he did
+not give it to us, as he had many opportunities in those days of quiet
+pleasure. He seemed to take great delight in hearing from us everything
+we chose to tell, asking numerous questions which showed a growing
+knowledge of the earth and its inhabitants.
+
+It was the doctor who finally inquired when we were going to hear what
+he had promised us.
+
+"I suppose I have been waiting," answered Thorwald, "for you to ask for
+it. I could listen to your talk a great deal longer with pleasure and
+profit. It is astonishing how closely your history matches ours up to
+your times. The period you have been describing to me as that in which
+you live corresponds with a similar age here. It was a time of great
+activity and rapid change, and one whose records make a deep impression
+on many of our writers, judging from the attention they give to it. It
+was an enviable time to live in, if you compare it with the previous
+ages, but chiefly on account of the promise it contained of the glorious
+day to come.
+
+"Doctor, are you sure you desire to hear about the growth of
+Christianity in this world and the blessings it has brought us?"
+
+"Most certainly," answered my companion. "I want to learn all I can of
+your history and present condition, and, as religion seems to occupy
+a chief place in both, anything you may say on the subject will be
+listened to with delight."
+
+Perhaps Thorwald was a little disappointed because the doctor did not
+give a more personal reason; but he failed to show it if he was, and,
+after calling to Zenith to come and sit with us, he began:
+
+"Fair shines the sun on this fair world. So shines the sun on other
+fair worlds. Its piercing rays dart out in all directions from the
+great glowing mass, and as they fly outward they lose in brilliancy
+and intensity every second. In eight minutes some of these rays are
+intercepted by the earth and find there an atmosphere well adapted to
+receive them. In twelve minutes some strike this world, and although
+they are less powerful than those that fall on the earth, the conditions
+here are favorable for their reception. At varying distances from the
+center other rays find other planets as ready to welcome them, no doubt,
+as ours are.
+
+"As the sun is in the physical universe, so is the Sun of righteousness
+in the domain of the spirit. Infinite in power, wisdom, and love, he
+comes wherever there are souls to save, shedding light in every dark
+spot, bringing life and hope and comfort, and lifting men out of the
+darkness of sin up to a condition of peace and happiness. Many ages ago
+he came to this planet, and started into life those forces which have
+brought us to our present state. Then he came to the earth, and you
+are at this time beginning to feel more intensely the impulse of his
+mission."
+
+"Your illustration is a forcible one," said the doctor, as Thorwald
+paused a moment, "and weakens my former position, which would make it
+necessary for me to believe that all the rays of the sun, except the
+few that fall on Mars and the earth, are lost. It seems to me now quite
+reasonable that some do their beneficent work on other planets also."
+
+"Yes," answered Thorwald, "whenever they are ready to receive them. And
+now I hope to lead you to see that the same intelligence that made the
+sun and gave to its rays such power has been present as a personal force
+in this world, molding it to his use and raising up a people here for
+his service and glory.
+
+"In the perfect plan of that omniscient being the advent of the Savior
+occurred at the most opportune moment. Deep in the heart of one nation,
+firmly grounded in their nature by ages of discipline and suffering, lay
+the belief in one only God. The other nations of the world, surfeited
+with sinful pleasure and worn out with a vain pursuit of happiness, were
+ready to abandon the gods of their imaginations. Some lofty souls among
+them, following intently every prompting of their better nature, had
+developed high characters, while of God's peculiar people many pure
+hearts waited, with joyful expectancy, the coming of the promised
+Savior.
+
+"He came, the lowly, patient one, and, although the world was made by
+him, it knew him not. The greatest event in the history of the globe
+passed almost without notice; but the seed was planted, and in God's own
+time the growth began, which has filled our happy world with the perfect
+flower of Christianity.
+
+"The religion which Jesus taught aimed to save the race. It was
+universal, not only as adapted to all nations, but as fitted to
+regenerate and perfect the whole nature of man--body, mind, and soul. It
+would take me too long to tell all the changes it wrought. It found the
+heart hard and unfeeling, and made it tender and loving. It found men
+filled with every evil passion and almost without a desire to be better,
+and it gave them a longing to be free from sin and pure in heart. It
+found the race in darkness and despair, and brought them hope and light
+and comfort. Above all, it attacked the demon of selfishness and gave
+men the promise that in time they should be entirely free from its
+power.
+
+"Slowly the truths of Christianity spread. The missionary spirit was
+born and the gospel was carried to remote lands. It was ever God's way
+to work through the agency of his creatures, whether these be brute
+forces or intelligent beings. And so through imperfect men the perfect
+rule of life made feeble progress. But as it was the work of the Spirit,
+there was never any danger, even in the darkest ages, that the gospel
+would not triumph over all the sin and degradation of the world, and
+lift men to a higher plane.
+
+"For a long period the truth lay buried beneath ignorance and
+superstition. Then came an awakening, and men, with their minds more
+enlightened and their consciences quickened, began to catch something of
+the true spirit of the gospel. Christianity now became a dominant power.
+Under its benign sway civilization advanced, intelligence spread, and
+Christian nations outstripped all others and extended their power to
+every part of the globe.
+
+"Soon the ameliorating influences of the gospel were felt on every hand.
+Government began to be administered with more regard for the interest of
+the governed, and men came to receive consideration simply because
+they were men. All the aggravated forms of oppression ceased under the
+newborn spirit of human brotherhood, a sentiment brought into the world
+by the founder of Christianity.
+
+"This brings us, my friends, up to that intense age of which I have
+spoken before, and which you say you recognize as that corresponding
+with the time in which you are living on the earth. Let me state briefly
+the condition of some of our affairs of that period.
+
+"The industrial world was in a ferment, as we have seen, and it was only
+in a general and impersonal way that the Christian religion shed its
+influence on the majority of the actors in that drama. Individuals,
+among both employers and workmen, had good impulses and indulged them
+as much as they could, and I am inclined to think this class was larger
+than most of our writers admit. But we read that the greater part were
+moved chiefly by motives of self-interest. Still, Christianity was
+a growing force among them, and they could not entirely escape its
+influence. They were born under its elevating power, and, even if they
+did not acknowledge its sway, they were quite different men from those
+who lived before Jesus began to preach the law of love. This remark will
+apply to all the people of that day who were born under Christian skies,
+and yet acknowledged no personal allegiance to the Savior. They were the
+unconscious heirs of a priceless inheritance."
+
+"I just want to say, Thorwald," the doctor interrupted, "that I can
+accept that idea fully now, with respect to the people of the earth,
+though at one time I should not have been willing to do so."
+
+Thorwald smiled his answer, and without further reply continued:
+
+"Let us look at the business situation. National and local governments
+had begun to extend their powers beyond what had before been considered
+legitimate. With one excuse or another they had taken out of private
+hands many branches of business, and there was a strong tendency toward
+a continuance of the policy. There was no difference in principle
+between carrying the mails and carrying freight and passengers, or
+between giving the people cheap water in their houses and furnishing
+them with cheap coal.
+
+"It was acknowledged that there were certain things which the city or
+state could do better than private enterprise, and the difficulty was
+to decide where to draw the line. While this uncertainty existed in the
+minds of most people, there was a small but aggressive party who were in
+favor of not drawing the line at all, but of putting everything into
+the hands of the government. They would have had the people, in their
+corporate capacity as a nation, raise and distribute the products of the
+soil, do all the manufacturing and dispose of the goods to consumers,
+conduct all the trades and professions, and, in fact, carry on every
+kind of business necessary to the well-being of society."
+
+Of course, this woke up the doctor, whose practical mind could see
+nothing attractive in such an arrangement as that, and he was moved to
+say:
+
+"I trust, Thorwald, that your ancestors did not adopt that crazy scheme
+as an experimental step in their development. But I beg your pardon for
+using such vigorous language without knowing whether they did or not."
+
+Thorwald smiled, as he answered:
+
+"You are safe, Doctor. From actual experience we cannot tell what the
+result of such a trial would be, for the vast majority of the writers,
+and the people too, of the period were opposed to the plan, and no doubt
+with good reason.
+
+"But I do not wonder that this idea had a fascination for some
+right-minded people, in the promise it gave of doing away with the evils
+arising from competition, to which I have before referred."
+
+Thorwald paused here, as if to invite one of us to speak, if he wanted
+to do so. I accepted, by saying:
+
+"I wish you would tell us a little more on that subject. Competition is
+said to be the life of trade with us, an accepted principle of honest
+business. And yet you speak of it as something that should be done away
+with."
+
+"If you could know," answered Thorwald, "how repugnant the idea is to
+us of the present day, you would understand how truly you have voiced my
+feelings."
+
+"I have no doubt," I said, "that your experience has taught you much on
+the subject that we do not know, but this is the way it looks from our
+standpoint: There is born in us a passion for getting that which belongs
+to others, or that which others are trying to get. In some of us this
+instinct is developed more than in others, and some are unprincipled
+enough to indulge it unjustly; but let me ask you if it is wrong to
+follow the leadings of such a desire if we are strictly honest in all
+our dealings."
+
+"We might differ over the meaning of the phrase 'strictly honest,' but I
+will answer your question by saying it is certainly wrong."
+
+"But it seems to be a part of our very nature."
+
+"Do you offer that as a reason for its being right? I never heard you
+claim that human nature was perfect," said Thorwald.
+
+"Then," I returned, "in our present state, with which you are now
+pretty well acquainted, is it not possible to carry the principles of
+Christianity into business?"
+
+"To answer that as I should be obliged to do would make me appear to you
+too arbitrary, and so perhaps I had better let you find your own answer
+in the questions which I will ask you. Is not unselfishness one of the
+first principles of Christianity? Now, the very essence of competition
+is a regard for self-interest, with no room for thought about the
+interests of others. In an ideal state of society the rules of life
+given by Jesus are fully obeyed. In such a state, would a transaction
+be right where each person was trying to do what was best for himself,
+although it might be to the damage or loss of another? It might be
+called honest to own slaves, and probably in the history of the earth
+a great many sincere Christian people have owned them, but you have now
+reached that condition, I think, where you can see it is wrong. So your
+way of doing business may be honest, but in our more ideal state we see
+that it is not right. Our remote ancestors, through the various stages
+of our development, did a thousand things with clear consciences which
+we could not do now. I understand your situation perfectly, and am sure
+your race will outgrow its imperfections."
+
+I thanked Thorwald for his faith in us, and he resumed his narrative.
+
+"In the age of which I am speaking," he said, "the church was taking a
+prominent place in the world, but had not assumed the leading position
+which it afterward reached. Many nations were still without the light of
+the gospel, and even in nominal Christian lands the actual supporters
+of the church were in the minority. In the midst of much evil and many
+discouragements the church was trying to regenerate society, but it had
+a difficult task, partly on account of the great perversity of the
+human heart, and partly because the church itself was not free from
+the imperfections of the age. Its members represented all shades of
+spirituality, the great majority of them having but a faint appreciation
+of the glorious cause in which they had enlisted. They called themselves
+soldiers of the cross, but were so burdened with the ordinary but more
+pressing duties and occupations of life that they never dreamed of the
+grandeur of the service, nor of the brilliant deeds of which the church
+was soon to show itself capable.
+
+"One chief hindrance to the growth of the church and to the spread of
+its influence was the spirit of division within itself. Theoretically,
+all believers, the world over, were one body, or church, but in point of
+fact there were many churches, and in some particulars they were quite
+sharply opposed to each other. This evil was in full force in that age,
+but there were signs in the air that it was not to remain forever a
+stumbling-block to the faith of the world."
+
+"We are afflicted in the same way," said I, "and some of us are hopeful
+enough to look forward to a really united church. But many think it is
+a part of our nature to differ, and are not able to see how all can ever
+come to think alike. They say that if by a miracle all should be brought
+into one church, and then left to their own inclinations, in a short
+time there would be as many sects as there are now."
+
+"And so there would," returned Thorwald, "with your present ways.
+Your imperfect nature must change under the softening influence of
+the gospel. The differences that cause such trouble come from each
+individual's selfish regard for his own opinion. All must learn not only
+to respect but to embrace the opinions of each other when they are
+right opinions. Two streams may run in parallel channels forever if each
+persists in following strictly its own course. If one turns toward the
+other and the other turns away, they will still be kept apart; but let
+each turn toward the other, and how quickly they come together."
+
+I told Thorwald I could apply his illustration to our condition and we
+would try to profit by it.
+
+"One of the promising features of the religious situation," he
+continued, "was the good start the church had made in missionary work.
+In the zeal with which this was taken up it was quite a new departure
+for the church, for not long before this time good men believed that if
+God intended to save the heathen he would do it without any help from
+man. But now success had come in the work in sufficient measure to
+greatly encourage the faithful souls engaged in it.
+
+"When I speak of zeal, however, you must understand that this quality
+was confined to a few people. Nearly all were only half-hearted
+Christians at the best, doing something, to be sure, but not at all
+alive to the grand opportunity of bringing the world to the feet of the
+Savior. Only here and there was one found who was ready to give himself
+unselfishly to the work, and the amount of money given to advance the
+cause of Christ, at home and abroad, was small indeed compared to that
+spent in luxurious living and hurtful indulgences.
+
+"At the same time, it was an age of progress. The ordinary span of life
+was long enough to show improvement in many ways, and men, seeing the
+rapid advancement the world was making, took courage and looked forward
+more confidently for the dawn of a brighter day. Religion was beginning
+to be more of an every-day matter, and Christians were coming to a faint
+realization of the real value of the gospel in its adaptation to all
+the needs of men. Care for the body, better ways of living, and right
+conduct toward others were all taught, as well as duty to God, and
+society began to feel the benefit of such sensible teaching."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXVI.
+
+VANQUISHED AGAIN BY A VOICE.
+
+
+We all hoped Mona's affliction would prove temporary, but after a number
+of days had passed, and no improvement appeared, Thorwald had an expert
+anatomist come to the house and make an examination of the organs of her
+throat. Although this was a new way in which to apply his skill, as the
+Martians of that era were all physically perfect, he thought he might be
+able to discover the cause of the trouble. The result of this experiment
+was somewhat reassuring, for our scientist told us there was no defect
+of organ or injury to any part, closing his report with the remark
+that the case presented the greatest mystery of the kind he had ever
+encountered. My companion, the doctor, now expressed his opinion, which
+coincided with my own. This was, that Mona's trouble was occasioned by
+the shock to her nervous system when she was plunged into the water,
+an element which she so much dreaded. Our good friends, including the
+expert, were utterly unable to understand the meaning of this theory.
+The remark that Zenith made was:
+
+"Why, but for our friend, and others who pry into these things for us,
+we would never know we had any nerves."
+
+"Happy will our race be," responded the doctor, "when it arrives at the
+same blissful ignorance."
+
+"Well," continued Zenith, "if your opinion is the correct one, what have
+we to hope for in Mona's case?"
+
+"Unfortunately," answered the doctor, "we have no experience to teach us
+what to expect. We can only hope with you that she may speedily recover
+her voice, which has seemed to form such a great part of her, and has
+given us all so much delight."
+
+Perhaps it was imagination, but it seemed to me that Mona's behavior
+toward me was more affectionate than it had formerly been. She had told
+me before, to be sure, that she had loved me with all her heart, but in
+these latter days she appeared to seek my society more and to show other
+indications that her love was assuming more of the personal element for
+which I had once so assiduously sought. But how was it with myself? This
+question forced itself on me, one day, and I was a little startled to
+find that an answer did not spring up spontaneously. Was it possible
+that my love was becoming cold? I would not admit it. Just as the poor
+girl had lost her chief attraction, should I turn from her and forget
+all my former professions? On the first suspicion that such might
+possibly be my desire, I said it was a wicked thought and I should
+never let it be true. But even if I could not force my heart to remain
+faithful, no one should ever know it but myself.
+
+A little more time elapsed and I discovered that, in spite of my brave
+resolutions, Mona, silent, was filling less and less of my thoughts,
+and that I was living on the precious memory of her lost voice. But this
+discovery did not shake my determination ever to be to Mona herself a
+true and faithful lover.
+
+At this juncture I was sitting alone, one morning, going over in my mind
+the strange vicissitudes of my love affair, when, in a far-distant part
+of the house, I heard a sound which thrilled me. I stopped all
+motion and listened, my heart, however, trembling with the fear of a
+disappointment. The music, for it was sweet music to me, came nearer,
+and now I could not be mistaken. What joy filled my heart! How
+impossible to forget that voice! I sat still and let it come. She
+evidently knew where I was and was coming to find me, pouring forth
+her heart in the way she knew I adored. Where now were my fears that my
+heart was growing cold toward her? Could it be possible that I had ever
+doubted my affection for her since I first heard her sing? Nearer it
+comes, filling my ears now with its familiar melody, a song without
+words but full of meaning for one who hears aright. She is guided true
+by the lamp of love and is now in the next room. I cannot wait, but
+interrupt her song with this cry:
+
+"Come to me, my love, come quickly. I know your voice and the meaning of
+your song, and my heart responds to yours."
+
+The strain continues, and soon a form appears in the doorway. I spring
+from my seat and start to meet it, but fall back almost immediately in
+confusion.
+
+"Oh, Avis," I exclaimed with vexation, "I thought you were Mona again. I
+supposed you were on the other side of the world."
+
+"I was, but I have come back to sing for you. I heard poor Mona had lost
+her voice and I wanted to do what I could to fill her place. But I fear
+you are not pleased with me."
+
+"My dear friend," I replied, "I beg your pardon for the abrupt manner
+in which I received you. I thought Mona had suddenly recovered her voice
+and was coming in the fullness of her joy to tell me about it, and you
+can imagine my disappointment when I discovered my mistake. But now I
+assure you I am glad to have your sympathy and delighted to know that
+you are to be near me. Please go on with the song which I so rudely
+interrupted, and let me hear your voice as often as possible. It is
+exceedingly fortunate for me to have you here while Mona is recovering.
+Will you stay till she can sing again, or do you think it is too selfish
+in me to make such a request?"
+
+Instead of answering me, Avis began to sing again, and in a twinkling
+I had forgotten my question and everything else in the enjoyment of the
+moment.
+
+I now wanted little to make me supremely happy. There was Mona herself,
+with her exquisite beauty and friendly manner, and there was Mona's
+voice in the mouth of one who liked me enough to go half around the
+world to entertain me. And, if the truth must be told, my heart inclined
+more and more toward the voice. This was a startling truth indeed when
+it first fell upon me, and I fully determined that no one else should
+know it. Mona should never discover that I loved her less because she
+could not sing, and Avis should never know that her marvelous song was
+beginning to make the singer dear to me.
+
+Whenever I found myself alone I could think of nothing but this
+perplexing subject. As I dwelt upon my situation, I told myself I must
+be careful, and avoid getting into trouble. Mona was becoming more and
+more tender toward me every day, and now Avis had come, unconsciously
+storming the seat of my affections with Mona's own voice. I felt that I
+was in some danger of embarrassing myself before the rest of my friends,
+and it behooved me to simplify matters if possible.
+
+First, I must find out to a certainty just how I stood with Mona.
+Notwithstanding the admission which I had been forced to make to myself,
+I felt that it must be right for me to continue to devote myself to
+Mona, even if my heart did not bound toward her as in the days of my
+exuberant love. I should indeed be unworthy of her to give her up now.
+When I considered my former depth of feeling, I fairly despised myself
+for entertaining for a moment the possibility of her becoming less dear
+to me. But, for all that, I knew deep in my heart that the charm which
+had held me to her was gone, and I knew of no way to arrest and bring
+back my wandering affections.
+
+Still, it could not be right for me to let her know I was changing. What
+would she think of me, and what opinion would Thorwald and Zenith have?
+I must own that the latter consideration had a good deal of force with
+me, for I did not want to lower myself and our whole race in their eyes.
+
+So I prepared the form of speech with which to address Mona again on the
+old subject. It seemed strange that she should begin to grow fond of me
+just as soon as my love began to cool, and I determined with all my will
+never to let her know the state of my heart.
+
+Not long after I had made this resolution, I was surprised to have
+the doctor tell me he was sorry to see I was not so partial to Mona's
+society since she had lost her voice. I do not remember what I said to
+him in reply, but I know his remark set me thinking hard. Perhaps other
+observers had noticed the same thing and were too considerate of my
+feelings to speak of it. Surely, I must have matters put upon a better
+footing at once.
+
+As for Mona, she was never happier in her life, if we could judge from
+her actions. She had now learned to talk so well in her mute language
+that we all found conversation with her comparatively easy. Her
+fascinating manners made her interesting always, and in spite of her
+great loss she was still an important part of the life of the house.
+I argued to myself that my heart must be hard indeed if I could not
+continue to love her. To me her behavior was characterized by such a
+peculiar sweetness that I knew she was ready, on a word from me, to
+recall some of the harsh things she had said and to own a love quite
+different in kind from her regard for others.
+
+The opportunity soon came to speak to her, and I embraced it. "Mona," I
+said, "I want to make a little speech to you. First, let me ask you if
+I can introduce a subject on which you have more than once stopped my
+mouth. Perhaps you know what I mean."
+
+"Oh, yes," she replied, "I remember it very well, and you may talk all
+you please about it now. You must forgive me if I was unkind before and
+used my voice to vex you. But I am surprised to have you bring up this
+topic."
+
+"Why?"
+
+"Because I thought from your manner that you did not love me as you used
+to."
+
+By this time the speech that I had prepared was all out of my head,
+and I was wondering if it were possible that I had lost so much of my
+affection for Mona that she had discovered it by a change in my manner.
+In reply to her remark I said:
+
+"But such a thought has not made you unhappy, Mona, if I may judge from
+your behavior. I have never seen you more cheerful and full of life."
+
+"No," she responded, "I think it has had the contrary effect. I was
+rather relieved to find you were recovering from your foolishness, and I
+thought we would now be able to live in peace, treating each other in a
+kind and sensible manner. I am disappointed to find that you are still
+clinging to the old idea, but I will not object to your saying all you
+please on the subject, for I have my own reasons now for being gracious
+to you."
+
+"That's the very thing I want to ask you about, Mona. I have noticed
+your great kindness of late, and have supposed it came from the fact
+that you were learning to love me in my way; that is, somewhat to the
+exclusion of others. Isn't it that?"
+
+"I think you will not be pained when I say you have had a wrong
+impression."
+
+"Why do you think such a discovery will not pain me?"
+
+"Because I am sure you do not care for me now in the same way as before.
+It was my voice that inthralled you. In all this interview you have not
+once said you love me, and you know at one time you could say nothing
+else. But let me tell you why I have shown an extra tenderness toward
+you recently. It was because I feared you would think I blamed you
+for my misfortune. I wanted to let you know I had not the least unkind
+feeling and that, in spite of the loss of my voice, I was as happy and
+contented as ever."
+
+"Well, after all, you do love me a little, do you not, Mona?"
+
+"Why, of course I do, just as much as ever. And now let us go right
+along and be nice to each other. We will love each other and love
+everybody else just the same, and you must promise not to look disturbed
+any more when I am talking with Foedric; but you have been very good
+about that of late."
+
+"I will promise," I answered; "but what will you do if you find I am
+loving another person more than you?"
+
+"Oh, I cannot understand what you mean by loving more and loving less.
+It is a strange idea to me, and I hope I shall never get accustomed to
+it. My way is to love everybody with all my heart, and that's an end of
+it. Don't you see in that way I escape all the worry and vexation which
+you seem to have in the matter? As to your loving another, you will
+pardon me if I say it will be a great relief to me for you to do so.
+I have not been used to being the sole recipient of any person's
+affection, and I shall rejoice to be freed from the responsibility. If
+you have thought me happy heretofore, you will now be astonished at my
+sprightliness. I suppose you refer to Antonia. She is a lovely girl,
+and--"
+
+"Allow me," I interrupted; but before I could go on with my denial that
+voice again fell on my ears--so distant and low that I held my breath to
+listen. At first Mona did not hear it, but it soon increased in volume;
+and now, as the sweet sounds came pouring upon us, my companion saw how
+I was affected, and said in her sign language:
+
+"Oh, I was mistaken. Antonia is not the one."
+
+My heart was now all aflame, and, with Mona by my side and gazing into
+my glowing face, I almost forgot her presence in the approach of one
+whose song had such power. Was she old? Music like that is never old.
+Why should not my heart go out to her? She was still beautiful and not
+so old as I had supposed. And then, of course, people in that advanced
+condition, did not wear out in a few years as they did on the earth. As
+for her size, she was rather small for a Martian, and I, living under
+new conditions, would certainly take a start before many days, and no
+doubt become as large as Foedric, almost.
+
+These ingenuous sentiments came to me with the sweet accents of that
+melodious song, and when Avis appeared I had great difficulty to keep
+from making some foolish exhibition of my feelings.
+
+At my next sober moment, that is, when I was by myself, and out of
+hearing of that intoxicating music, it was very easy for me to realize
+my ridiculous situation, but not so easy to tell how I was to escape
+from it. As to my relations with Mona herself, I was greatly relieved by
+our last conversation. I certainly need no longer feel obliged to tie
+my vagrant heart to her. She would not miss it if it never once showed
+itself again, but how could I hope to preserve any sort of character in
+the eyes of my other friends? What sport the doctor would make of me
+if he knew how I felt toward Avis. He little thought that this was the
+daughter of Mars most likely to bring me to my knees.
+
+And the doctor would have good reason for whatever enjoyment he might
+have at my expense, for I felt at first that I did not deserve any
+sympathy. When away from the powerful influence of that voice I was
+myself, and could see everything in its true perspective, but it is
+difficult to describe the change that came over me as soon as those
+entrancing notes fell upon my ear. The music sent great waves of emotion
+through my being, the storm center generally appearing to be the seat of
+my affections. My heart would beat fast, going out toward the singer
+in sympathy and love. The doubts of propriety belonging to my sane
+moments--hesitation, argument, uncertainty--all went in a flash, and I
+was almost ready to throw myself before her and proclaim my love without
+shame or embarrassment. At such times I felt that I could hold my head
+up in view of all the inhabitants of Mars and prove to them that I was
+not fickle, but as steadfast as constancy itself in following always one
+and the same attraction. Was I not as true to the best that was in me,
+when my heart was ravished by the voice of Avis, as I was when I had
+loved Mona so tenderly for the same sweet charm?
+
+As day followed day in this delightful home, it was the society of Avis
+which I continually sought, and I was never quite happy except in her
+presence, or, at least, within hearing distance of her voice. And it was
+not long before the constant association of Avis with the music I
+loved so well began, even when I was not listening to her, to draw my
+affections toward one who, at will, could exert such power over me.
+
+Mona was still herself, the same friendly, joyous creature as ever, but
+the knowledge that I could never gain her undivided affection helped to
+cure my infatuation. And now, with my heart free, why should I not love
+Avis? The mere fact that she was an inhabitant of Mars proved that she
+was far too good for me, but I could see by the example of Foedric and
+Antonia that Avis would never, in consequence of her high development,
+have any scruples against loving one person more than others.
+
+When I had fully persuaded myself that I was perfectly consistent in my
+present course, I became quite anxious to know what others would think
+of me. But I was too much afraid of the doctor's criticism to confide my
+secret to him. I must try one of the Martians, whose high breeding and
+true courtesy would not permit them to make light of one's feelings on
+so serious a subject.
+
+So it was to Zenith that I went for sympathy. She had been more than
+kind to me, and it is remarkable how easy and perfectly at home she made
+me feel in her company.
+
+"Zenith," I began, "I want to consult you on a delicate subject, and
+I will first ask you a rather abrupt question. Will you give us your
+permission to take Avis back to the earth with us?"
+
+A Martian never loses self-possession and is never at a loss what to say
+to the most unexpected proposition.
+
+"Well, that is abrupt," Zenith quickly responded. "Do you know, Thorwald
+and I were talking only this morning about your apparent fondness for
+the society of Avis. Are you forgetting Mona?"
+
+This was getting into the subject faster than I had intended, and I
+determined to take my time, so I said:
+
+"Zenith, this province must be the New England of Mars, by the way you
+evade my question and ask another."
+
+"But you wouldn't expect me to answer such a question offhand. You
+see, it contains several new ideas. First, I didn't know you thought of
+returning to the earth. Then I am surprised that you should want to
+take anybody with you. And, finally, I am more surprised that you should
+choose Avis rather than Mona. Now that I have explained so fully, may I
+not ask you again if this means that you are forgetting Mona?"
+
+"Mona is not able to sing for me," I said.
+
+"And do your ideas of what is right allow you to become indifferent to
+her as soon as she loses one of her attractions? Here her misfortune
+would tend to make her only more dear to one who really loved her."
+
+To which I made haste to answer:
+
+"I am proud to tell you, Zenith, that such sentiments prevail on the
+earth, too, and I have been trying hard to hold them in my own breast.
+But in living with you I am learning to be honest, and it would not be
+right for me to deny that Mona's chief charm for me is gone from her,
+and is in the possession of another. The voice of Avis has the same
+power over me that Mona's formerly had, and shall I fight against my
+growing fondness for Avis?"
+
+"Is your race so little developed, then," asked Zenith, "that your ears
+are the only avenue to your hearts?"
+
+Before I could answer, Mona herself came bounding into the room, and
+Zenith continued:
+
+"There's the poor child now. How can you be so unkind to her?"
+
+"Who's unkind to me?" asked Mona in her sign language.
+
+"Zenith thinks I am," I answered.
+
+"Why, you are mistaken, Zenith; he is just the opposite. We have always
+loved each other, and I think more of him than ever since I lost my
+voice, and he has ceased making serious speeches to me that I can't
+understand. I wish you could see how he enjoys hearing Avis sing."
+
+In this way Mona proved to Zenith that she was not heart-broken. I was
+going to explain the matter myself, but was glad to have Mona take it
+out of my hands.
+
+The most difficult task yet remained. I must tell Avis how affairs
+stood; and yet, was it the proper thing for me to do? I wondered how the
+delicate subject of making love was handled in Mars, where the two sexes
+were perfectly equal. Which one was to make the advances? The matter is
+simple enough on the earth, where women are inferior and dependent. Of
+course, they must smother their own feelings and wait to be discovered,
+while the men can make their selection, and if they do not succeed at
+first can simply try again. That is entirely proper, and everybody knows
+just what to do; but here things are probably different. I don't want to
+make a failure in this case, as I did with Mona, not knowing the customs
+of the moon-dwellers. Perhaps my best way will be to try a little
+coquetry and pretend I do not care for her nor her singing. That may
+draw her on to make some avowal to me.
+
+I had gone so far in my deliberations, when I was interrupted by the
+doctor, who called to ask if I did not want to go out with him. I
+consented reluctantly, as I preferred to go on with my thinking till I
+could come to some decision. But the doctor had a purpose in taking
+me out, and, as soon as a good opportunity presented itself, he said,
+inquiringly:
+
+"You find Avis a pretty good singer?"
+
+"Excellent."
+
+"And good company?"
+
+"Excellent company. Why?"
+
+"Oh, nothing; only I thought you were neglecting another friend."
+
+"Why, Mona doesn't care for me, and Avis does, or, at least, I think she
+does."
+
+"Do you mean by this," inquired the doctor, "that you have transferred
+to Avis the personal interest you had in Mona?"
+
+"Have you anything to say in disparagement of Avis?" I asked.
+
+"Certainly not. I have a high respect for her. But there is one other
+plain question I would like to ask you, in view of your rather erratic
+behavior."
+
+"Well, what is it? I'm dying to know."
+
+"It is this. What are you going to do with Margaret?"
+
+"Margaret? Oh, yes, I forgot about Margaret. That is something else I
+have got to think over."
+
+That night, as I was falling asleep, the same sweet, familiar music came
+to me from a distant part of the house. Half-thinking and half-dreaming,
+I let my mind drift where it would. The sensation received through my
+ears was so delicious and so satisfying that I wondered why I could
+not rest in it entirely and not think of the singer; but that was
+impossible. The notes penetrated from my brain down to the region of
+my heart. I thought of Margaret, but Margaret could not sing like that.
+Mona could not, now; no one but Avis. Oh, how I loved her for it! I
+remembered how nice Margaret was, and how much I had once thought of
+her; but as for loving her now, with this music of Mars in my ears, why,
+I simply couldn't try to do it. At last Margaret, Mona, Avis, all became
+jumbled up in my chaotic mind, and I thought they were one superb woman,
+and I loved her. The conceit was worthy the colossal selfishness of a
+dreamer. The essence of three worlds was mine. The earth, the moon, and
+Mars had all given me their best. And she could sing. The thought was
+soothing. I was asleep.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXVII.
+
+UNTIL THE DAY BREAK.
+
+
+The events related in the foregoing chapter were interesting to us all,
+in one way and another, but the doctor and I felt that the real purpose
+of our visit to Mars, if anything so unpremeditated could be said to
+have a purpose, was to learn all we could of the planet, and especially
+of its people. And as we did not know how soon our visit might be
+brought to a close, we lost no time in urging Thorwald to continue his
+instruction whenever he could find it convenient. Thorwald's answer to
+this was, that he hoped nothing would occur to hasten our departure, but
+that it was his convenience to heed at any time our wishes, and he would
+resume his talk as soon as we pleased. So it was not long before we were
+seated, and Thorwald began again as follows:
+
+"It is now my privilege to speak to you, my friends, of that part of
+our history which differs from anything you have experienced, and I
+anticipate much pleasure in doing so. I must say again that we have
+found the parallel remarkably close between your career and ours up to
+the time when you left the earth."
+
+"We have indeed," remarked the doctor, "and that makes us all the
+more anxious to learn what came to you next and how you escaped the
+threatening storms."
+
+"There were certainly many clouds upon our horizon at that day," resumed
+Thorwald. "The people were full of unrest. The worst part wanted to
+replace organized society with anarchy, but this extreme party never
+succeeded in their purpose. The world had progressed too far for that.
+There were too many churches and schools and printing presses. The
+anarchists should have begun their efforts in a ruder age.
+
+"There was more danger from the jealousies and mischievous tendencies
+among the great industrial class, because their number was so large. But
+even here the same influences which saved us from the nihilist had their
+effect. As time went on, men came to think more, and the result of this
+was that both conscience and reason began to govern men's actions.
+
+"The workmen had looked about them and had seen many corporations
+increasing in wealth and power, and individuals rolling up enormous
+fortunes, and they had felt that they were not getting a fair share of
+the money their labor was earning. But then a little thought enabled
+them to realize that these evidences of great prosperity came from the
+successful few, while a large proportion of all business ventures were
+failures; and in these the employees received more of the profits than
+the owners did. Then the wage-earners had the benefit of much of
+the money accumulated in large fortunes, by having the free use of
+libraries, trade schools, reading rooms, and an increasing number of
+philanthropic institutions, which were equipped and endowed by the rich.
+Such a use of wealth became an ordinary thing, so that it was not a
+matter of wonder and wide notice when a man spent a liberal share of his
+fortune in educational or other humanitarian work.
+
+"All this had a great effect on the mass of the people, gradually
+raising the average of character, and placing before the mind a higher
+incentive for right living. Ignorance had always been to the race a
+twin enemy with sin, and the growth of intelligence meant the general
+elevation of mankind.
+
+"Another chief item in the reformation of men in that age of improvement
+was the general abandonment of the drinking habit. You will understand,
+of course, that the mainspring of all these reforms was the gospel of
+Christ, under which man's spiritual nature was gradually developing.
+But, at the same time, there was always a secondary cause, and through
+human instrumentality such blessings came to us. What do you suppose
+brought about the overthrow of intemperance?"
+
+"I suspect," answered the doctor, with a glance at our hostess, "it was
+the growing influence of woman, who, by that time, according to Zenith's
+account, ought to be taking quite a leading position."
+
+"Doctor," said Thorwald, "you take in the situation completely. If
+there was one thing woman had always been sure she could do, it was the
+breaking up of the liquor traffic. In the old days, when she had been
+treated as man's inferior, she had declared that, if she had the power,
+she would stamp out the manufacture and sale of intoxicating drinks, and
+make it impossible for men to get them at any price. And when power came
+to her I am glad to say she proved that her boast had not been in vain.
+Not that she fulfilled her threat in any such dramatic way as she had
+had in mind, but the end was accomplished just as surely by the force
+of her high character, working itself out in many ways. It was chiefly a
+crusade of education. The children of one generation after another were
+taught the value of right habits and purity of body, and in time the
+change was wrought, a victory for woman more precious to the race than
+any army of mailed warriors had ever won.
+
+"With temperance came better manners, more self-respect, a kinder
+spirit, a more tender care for others, and, along with these things,
+better hearts and better homes."
+
+As Thorwald had invited us to interrupt him as often as we pleased, I
+took advantage of a pause here by saying:
+
+"I see, Thorwald, you are making the people all too good to leave any
+fear in the mind of a social convulsion, but I would like to ask how
+politics were smoothed out. During that period of industrial war, which
+you described to us, you said the workingmen and ignorant classes
+found they were in the majority and were beginning to use their power
+unjustly. We are threatened in a similar way on the earth at this time,
+and I am anxious to know how the cloud in your sky was dispersed."
+
+"I will endeavor to make it plain to you," replied Thorwald, "but you
+must remember I am trying to condense the history of a great many
+years into as few words as possible. It was found that there had been
+a mistake in making the right of suffrage universal without universal
+education, and that the ignorant and vicious were so numerous as to make
+the average unsafe to rely upon in a crisis. It was a difficult matter
+to remedy this state of things. Some attempts were made from time to
+time to confine the privilege of citizenship to the intelligent part of
+the community, but many of the best people thought this was taking the
+wrong course, and that the only safe cure was in educating all classes
+up to a full appreciation of their higher duties. There was a growing
+faith, the world over, in the virtue of the people at large, and
+wherever they had been given full power to govern themselves, or had
+taken it from their former rulers, they were exceedingly jealous of any
+abridgment of this power.
+
+"Here, again, we see the effects of the beneficent influence of woman.
+The more her dominion increased the more was intelligence diffused, and
+although she yielded to the subtle temptation of power and reigned alone
+for a while, yet the world had, on the whole, great cause to be thankful
+for her signal advancement. With education made compulsory, and with
+society brought gradually under the sway of woman's finer nature and
+more lofty ideals, communities were molded to a higher form of life, and
+saved from the evils which threatened them in their former state.
+
+"Let me tell you briefly how war was banished from our world, that
+monster whose hideous presence would be so utterly out of place here
+now. At the beginning of the age I am describing, the foremost nations
+kept powerful armies and navies, all ready for their deadly work. Wars
+were frequent and bloody. The best of the young men in nearly every land
+were forced to bear arms and fight for their country at the command of
+their rulers, while the conscience of mankind was dulled and stunted by
+the spectacle or constant menace of war.
+
+"The lives of millions of men were actually in the hands of a few
+irresponsible autocrats, who were possessed with exaggerated or false
+notions of national honor. Now came a time when the world stood hushed,
+as it were, on the eve of a mighty conflict. Every nation had increased
+its army and strengthened its defenses to the utmost limit. Every day
+threatened to see the match lighted--a hasty word, a fancied insult, any
+trivial thing, which would bring on the struggle and put the world in
+mourning. And what was it all for? No one could tell. It seemed to be
+nothing but the selfish ambition of the rulers and their innate love
+for supremacy. As for the real actors, those who were to do the actual
+fighting, they had no love for their work. However it may have been in
+the past, the world was older now and better, and war was abhorred with
+all its accompaniments both by the army and by the people at large.
+
+"It was a time of great inventions, looking not only to the saving of
+life but to its destruction. Even while the nations were standing, arms
+in hand, waiting for the signal to begin the conflict, their weapons
+were rendered useless and the strength of their fortresses reduced to
+nothing by the working of one man's brain. Yes, by a single invention,
+inspired by God for the good of his creation, inhuman war received its
+death-blow and the world obtained a mighty impulse toward its final
+goal."
+
+The doctor became somewhat excited by these words and asked with
+eagerness:
+
+"What wonderful invention was that?"
+
+"The perfection of the air ship," Thorwald replied, "by which any
+required weight could be taken into the air, and carried with ease and
+certainty by currents of air or force of gravity.
+
+"You no doubt see what such an invention implies. It means that powerful
+explosives could be dropped from the sky in quantities sufficient to
+annihilate an army or utterly destroy a city. Experiments were made,
+and engineers learned, with surprising rapidity, to cast the bombs with
+great accuracy from any desired height.
+
+"At once every government hastened to build air ships and manufacture
+explosives. There seemed to be no limit in sight to the production of
+either, and soon power enough was stored in this way to extinguish
+half the life of the world, when rightly applied. The entire system of
+warfare was revolutionized; but, while all were preparing for offensive
+operations, there appeared to be no adequate plan of defense under the
+new system. It therefore became apparent that, should the threatening
+cloud burst, it would be difficult to imagine the extent of the
+destruction it would bring. This feeling, which filled all hearts with
+dread, delayed the catastrophe, for no one was ready to assume such an
+immense responsibility. So matters stood for a long time, the fear
+of the dire consequences preventing an outbreak, while the sentiment
+against war was rapidly growing. In nations of the highest civilization,
+where the Christian character of the people was reflected in the
+government, some serious disputes had been settled by arbitration, and
+every time this humane method was adopted a precedent was created which
+made war appear more and more useless and barbarous. The world was now
+becoming so much changed that such a good example was contagious, and
+the result was that the aerial warships and the deadly dynamite did not
+have to be used.
+
+"Among the legends of the time is the improbable one that, when these
+air fleets were at their highest point of efficiency, and the world
+was literally lying at their mercy, one hot-headed young monarch, whose
+selfish pride had stolen away his senses, gave the command to fire
+the train which would ram destruction upon his foes, when, wonder of
+wonders, not a man would obey his order. Angered beyond measure by
+such an unwonted experience, he seized with his own hand the electric
+apparatus arranged to give the fatal spark, but with such violence
+and indiscretion that, instead of sending the current on its appointed
+mission, it turned from its course and destroyed the angry youth
+himself.
+
+"This is undoubtedly a myth, but the rest that I have told you is
+well-authenticated history.
+
+"The abolition of war seems sudden, but it never would have taken place
+as it did had not the people been prepared for it by a radical change in
+their character. For many years the spirit of peace had been quietly at
+work on the heart of mankind, until it came to be realized that warfare
+and strife, whether between individuals or nations, were bound to die
+away under the growing appreciation for the higher law.
+
+"It was one of the supreme days in the history of Mars, when grim war
+passed and became but a memory. The effect was instantaneous. At once
+the people of the different nations were drawn together to their mutual
+advantage. Commerce became world-wide, one language was adopted, and the
+arts of peace flourished as never before. Men began to feel that they
+were one family, national distinctions were made little of, and the
+world drifted gradually toward universal brotherhood.
+
+"I must now draw your attention to the work of the church and show you
+how it was carrying out its great commission. First, to prepare for
+the highest usefulness, it quite early freed itself from the sectarian
+spirit. As the magnitude of its mission became more apparent the points
+of difference between the denominations grew constantly smaller, and, in
+time, all Christians found themselves united on the fundamental truths
+of the gospel, and working together to bring the world to the light.
+With this union fully accomplished, Christianity became more than ever
+the dominant force in the world, and the church the chief center of all
+work looking to the elevation of the race.
+
+"The progress of the world was along the line of the brotherhood of
+man, and that doctrine was the church's own Christianity taught the true
+socialism, which, however, could not be realized till the heart had lost
+its selfishness, and each one had learned to care for the interests of
+his neighbor. Although such a condition was not in sight at that day,
+there was a mighty awakening which set the current of men's thoughts and
+desires strongly in the right direction."
+
+"Do you call yourselves socialists now?" asked the doctor.
+
+"No," answered Thorwald, "but you can call us so, if you please. It is
+a good word, but our condition is much more perfect, since the coming of
+the kingdom of God in every heart, than any dream of socialism, in the
+olden time, ever contemplated.
+
+"I was speaking of the increasing power of religion. Where the church
+had been weak and dependent on a few half-earnest, timid believers,
+it was now strong and active, and supported by all the self-respecting
+portion of society. Instead of being forced to beg for its meager
+subsistence, it now received in abundance the money that was poured out
+voluntarily. Men did not wait for death, but gave their fortunes away
+during their lives, and enjoyed the blessing which followed. The church
+went down to the people, and in so doing lifted them up to itself.
+It showed them how to make much of life, gave them instruction and
+recreation and social enjoyment, fed the hungry, clothed the naked, and
+visited those in trouble. It strengthened family and neighborhood ties,
+encouraged peace and good-fellowship, and taught men to love each other
+as a preparation for loving God.
+
+"A local church of that day was not a feeble body of men and women, with
+an overworked and underpaid man at their head, who was expected to do
+all the varied work required, except what he could get done by a small
+number of his members, themselves worn out with the labor and business
+of life. No, I will acquaint you with a then modern church. It was an
+institution rich in resources and men, male and female, reaching out
+into the community in every direction, helping the people in every
+imaginable way to live as well as preparing them to die, a beauty and a
+joy to all. It appealed to every side of man's nature, first supplying
+physical wants, not by indiscriminate largess of money, but by teaching
+sobriety, industry, and thrift as virtues necessary to a rounded
+character. Such teaching was not confined to pulpit precepts, but there
+was no lack of good souls who took delight in going into the homes of
+the people and showing them by example the best ways of living, and how
+to make even the homeliest duties a loving and beautiful service.
+To provide further for the needs of the body, there were gymnasiums,
+bath-houses, swimming schools, playgrounds, riding schools, and the
+like.
+
+"More numerous still were the means offered to meet the intellectual
+and social desires--club-houses, lecture halls, conservatories,
+museums, picture galleries, libraries, reading rooms, observatories,
+kindergartens, manual training and trade schools, besides games and
+sports, spectacular and dramatic exhibitions of a high order, and
+many other things, designed to compete with attractions of a debasing
+character.
+
+"Then, rising high over all, both in outward form and inward grace,
+was the church edifice itself, set apart and strictly preserved for its
+sacred purpose. In the noble lines of its architecture, in the beauty
+of its artistic adornment, and in the character of its service,
+intellectual and musical, it represented the highest culture of the age.
+The structure included under its roof accommodations for the various
+departments of religious work, and its doors were always open, inviting
+every passer-by to enter and seek for spiritual refreshment.
+
+"Imagine, if you can, an institution employing all these agencies, every
+one of them fully equipped and manned, and with streams of money flowing
+in to their support; no barren appeals from the pulpit for funds to pay
+expenses, and no auctioneer's hammer profaning the sacred aisles.
+
+"This was the church of the period. Can you wonder that God's rich
+blessing was on such work and that his kingdom made rapid progress?
+There was an ever-increasing number of God's ministers, men and women,
+imbued with Christ's own spirit, working in all these various activities
+to elevate and save their kind.
+
+"In the life of the people there was nothing in all the world that so
+surrounded them as the church. They could not escape from its influence.
+It touched them from one side or from another, calling upon them, by
+every manner of appeal, to lead less sordid lives, and seek the highest
+good. Whereas in the olden time they seemed to be set in the midst of
+evil influences, which imperceptibly molded their characters and too
+often wrecked their lives, their condition was so changed that their
+environment was now a help and not a hindrance, and so the gospel found
+easy entrance to their hearts and lives.
+
+"This much the church had done by giving its money and itself, with
+new-born zeal, to the work of the Master. And from this time you may be
+sure its victories were rapid and notable.
+
+"While this great change in society had been going on among nominal
+Christian people, hand in hand had gone the work of the gospel in
+heathen lands. The faster the money was poured out for the church
+at home, the more plentifully it was offered for the foreign field.
+Sometimes it was feared there would be more money than men and women for
+the work. Then the laborers would come forward in such numbers that the
+money would be exhausted, which, however, gave no concern, for it was
+sure to come again as soon as needed. Where one missionary, in the
+former days, had had the courage to take up the work, now thousands
+sprang forward and with eager hearts went into the field.
+
+"Going to the heathen in the same spirit of brotherly love and
+helpfulness which had been so successful at home, the church was almost
+overwhelmed with the happy results. One people after another threw away
+their idols, and became followers of the gentle Savior, whose disciples
+showed so much of his spirit. In every part of the world the gospel
+was gaining fast over superstition and ignorance. In Christian lands no
+other news was so sought after by all as the reports of the progress of
+the cross, at home and abroad. Enthusiasm is a small word with which to
+describe the burst of genuine interest in this great cause. Nor was it
+a transient show of feeling, but so steady and constant that there was
+never any doubt of its enduring till the final victory was won.
+
+"Where now were the dangers that threatened society? What had become
+of the labor troubles, the schemes of the anarchists, the menace of the
+unemployed, the risk of a plutocracy, and all the evils that darkened
+the sky of that former day? How far away, how trivial these things
+seemed, now that they had passed, and men were learning to dwell
+together in peace."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXVIII.
+
+AND THE SHADOWS FLEE AWAY.
+
+
+Thorwald paused again, and the doctor felt moved to say:
+
+"Your sketch has been richly enjoyed, Thorwald, and if it can be taken
+as prophetic, in any sense, of what is to come to pass on the earth, we
+are to see some happy days indeed. But a question has arisen in my mind
+which I would like to ask you. When you broke off your former narrative,
+things were in a pretty serious state among your ancestors. You have now
+told us in a general way that there was a great change for the better,
+and that every thing and every body improved until the time came when it
+was easier to be good than not. I accept the fact, but do not understand
+the practical operation of the causes that led to such a result. For
+instance, I would like to know how that industrial strife came to an
+end. The parties to it seemed to be full of bitter enmity and far enough
+from ever loving one another. You have perhaps answered my question
+already, and my stupidity has prevented me from grasping your meaning."
+
+"Let me first ask you a question," said Thorwald. "I have inferred,
+from some words you have let fall from time to time, that your mind has
+changed somewhat. Will you admit that whatever advance this world has
+made has come through the teachings of Christ?"
+
+"It would be rather presumptuous in me," answered the doctor, "to think
+of denying anything to which you hold so firmly. More than that, in
+the light of what I have seen and heard here, my own views, so rashly
+expressed in the first days of our acquaintance, seem to me out of
+place. They were formed without sufficient study of the subject, and I
+am free to tell you that I now believe the same influence to which you
+attribute your growth is the strength and growth of our race also."
+
+"Your words give me great pleasure," Thorwald resumed, "for now I know
+I have your full sympathy. The troubles to which you refer, and all the
+clouds of that period, were dispersed by the growth of the spirit of
+love in the world. Does that seem a vague and insufficient answer to
+your question? Does the cause appear inadequate to the effect? Perhaps
+I should have warned you not to expect any new or startling method
+of removing these evils. The world was not in need of any nostrum for
+curing sin, nor of any new scheme of the visionary for teaching men how
+to find peace and happiness.
+
+"No, the old gospel was sufficient. The power was already at work which
+was to regenerate the world and, in time, to do away with all kinds of
+oppression and injustice. The gospel did not spend its force so much
+in attacking special forms of evil. It struck at the foundation of our
+sinful nature, and, by long and patient effort, won a firm place in our
+hearts. Then the whole structure of evil passions and low desires fell,
+and our race began to build, on this new and safe foundation, more
+beautiful and enduring mansions.
+
+"If we were to be the children of God, it was necessary for us to be
+like him, to deny ourselves, and to love our enemies. So, with that
+spirit growing in our hearts, what place was there for greed and anger
+and strife between man and man?
+
+"One secret of the new power put forth by the church is to be found in
+the union of all good men and women in its support. Before that period
+many people of character had stood aloof, giving little thought to
+religion for themselves, and less still to its influence on the world
+at large. Some of them were out-and-out unbelievers, but, for the most
+part, they were careless livers, too much engrossed in the affairs of
+this world to feel any anxiety about the world to come.
+
+"But now, in the march of events, the time came when the lines must be
+sharply drawn between the good and evil forces. Iniquity presented
+such a bold front, and all the foes of order and decency became so
+threatening, that the moral forces of society had to combine for mutual
+protection. The church, being the conservator of morals as of religion,
+was the only rallying point for these forces, and felt at once the
+impulse of new life. Thus, society, in the hour of its extremity, found
+the true source of its salvation, and from that day its progress toward
+a higher state began, a progress which has never yet been stayed.
+
+"Let me urge you, Doctor, to learn a lesson from our history. You
+acknowledge that, if the earth is to be saved from the evils which
+threaten its peace, it must be through the gospel. If, therefore, you
+and others like you wish to help speed the earth in its upward path,
+you must obey and work for that gospel. To do good to your fellowmen
+and assist in the regeneration of the world is only one motive for doing
+this, but it will, I am sure, lead you to that other motive, a desire to
+please your God. Every consideration calls you to leave your doubts and
+negations, your neglect and indifference, and join with all the strength
+of your character in a united effort to free the earth from some of its
+sin. When this is done, when all the good forces cease their strife and
+their cold neutrality and come together under the banner of love, you
+will see a mighty change. Then will the earth grow bright with hope and
+begin to realize something of the nature of its high destiny.
+
+"Let me continue to describe the effect of such warm-hearted, combined
+labor among us, and the result on our planet of the great spiritual
+awakening to which I have referred.
+
+"As men took note of the vast improvement going on around them, for
+every department of life felt the quickening of the new zeal, they
+became more and more eager in the overthrow of evil. And they had
+learned thoroughly the great truth that the way to regenerate the
+world was for everyone to build up his own character in truth and
+righteousness. Noble lives, devoted to lofty aims, were the natural
+result of the change, and our race, emerging from such a state of
+imperfection as I have tried to outline, began to realize with joy that
+they were living in a new world.
+
+"I wish I could describe to you in fitting words the wonderful nature of
+this advancement. All the pride and selfishness, so common to all hearts
+in our degenerate days, were now driven out and replaced by the spirit
+of self-denial. Love, the living principle in the gospel, had conquered
+all its foes and was now enthroned in every heart.
+
+"Do not suppose all this came about in one generation. It is only by
+comparing one period with another that we are able to see such marked
+progress. Our development toward the higher life has always been step by
+step, and sometimes so slow that the people actually living, and in whom
+the change was taking place, were not aware of any growth.
+
+"But there have been special periods in our history when, after long
+years of preparation, the race has come to a sudden appreciation of a
+higher and better condition. The most glorious epoch of this kind came
+at the close of the period I have just been describing.
+
+"Perhaps you have seen some rare plant, having come to its maturity
+through a process so slow as to bring discouragement, often, to
+those who are cultivating it, now suddenly burst into bloom with such
+magnificence that the disappointments of the past are all forgotten in
+the enjoyment of its beauty.
+
+"So broke that blessed day upon Mars. None so fair had ever dawned
+before, and none less fair have we ever seen since.
+
+"While this spiritual awakening was taking place, there had been rapid
+progress, also, in our material development. The evils that formerly
+vexed our bodies having disappeared, we were now free from sin and
+sorrow alike, and so were prepared to enter upon duties relating to our
+higher condition.
+
+"All nature rejoiced with us, for the world itself was filled with the
+joy and beauty which came from the knowledge of the Lord. Peace reigned
+in the animal creation, and such gladness abounded everywhere that it is
+hardly an exaggeration to say that the mountains and hills broke forth
+into singing, and all the trees of the field clapped their hands."
+
+As Thorwald uttered these closing words, so beautiful and familiar, I
+was so impressed with their appropriateness to his narrative that I
+did not stop to wonder where he had obtained them, but inquired with
+eagerness:
+
+"And is it true, Thorwald, that instead of the thorn there came up the
+fir-tree, and instead of the brier there came up the myrtle-tree?"
+
+"That describes the situation admirably," he answered, "and it is
+literally true."
+
+"Why should that be so?" I asked.
+
+"Because, when sin was banished from our world, it dragged in its train
+every evil thing and left all bright and joyous behind it. Even the
+unconscious soil was so improved in character that, whereas in the
+former time it had brought forth by nature the thorn and brier and
+noxious weed, there now sprang up spontaneously all manner of healthful
+plants and fruits."
+
+"But," said I, "we do not attribute moral excellence to the ground that
+produces our food. How could the absence of sin make it any better?"
+
+"Like everything else," replied Thorwald, "it reflected the spiritual
+condition of our race. By long and patient cultivation, by a constant
+use of good seed, and by a persistent fight against every tendency to
+evil growth, men had so changed the nature of the soil that it yielded
+only that which was good. Even if left without care the ground did not
+deteriorate, but the products took on the character of the times and
+gradually improved. To such a degree had our once sinful world been
+changed.
+
+"The disagreeable features in nature's laboratory were lost to every
+sense, while everything that was beautiful in sight or sound, or that
+was pleasant to the taste, now possessed an added charm. The birds
+sang in more joyous notes, the flowers glowed in brighter hue, and all
+created things burst forth in a song of praise to their Maker."
+
+"Is it possible," I asked, "that the growth of love in the heart will
+so transform a world and make even inanimate things more beautiful? The
+earth is full of selfishness and I fear will be so for a long time, and
+yet we think we have a few things that are perfect. I cannot conceive,
+for instance, how anything could ever grow, sin or no sin, that would
+surpass in beauty one of our finest roses."
+
+To which Thorwald replied:
+
+"Is this not of value to you, to learn that the roses of the future are
+entirely beyond your conception? Let me assure you that, with each new
+advance in your progress toward a higher condition, there will unfold
+within you new powers of appreciation for the increasing beauties in
+nature, and new desires for spiritual perfections which are now too high
+for your mind to grasp. Is it not a pleasure to know that there are many
+things in reserve for the earth of whose character and perfections you
+cannot conceive?"
+
+"It surely is," I replied, "and we shall never cease to thank you for
+this hour's talk. But now let me ask if you were not really in heaven
+when you reached such a happy state. With both man and nature redeemed
+from sin, with the tears wiped away from all eyes, with all griefs
+assuaged and sickness and sorrow forgotten, and with love supreme in the
+heart, what more was needed to make a heaven? Many of our generation on
+the earth believe that the earth itself will be our heaven, when sin has
+been driven out and peace and joy abound."
+
+"Oh, no, not heaven," answered Thorwald. "The earth will be better in a
+thousand years than it is now, much better in ten thousand years, but it
+will never be heaven."
+
+"But why?" I persisted. "We cannot understand how there could be any
+more blessed place than the earth would be if it should ever reach the
+condition which you have pictured to us as existing here."
+
+"You have just stated the trouble," Thorwald replied.
+
+"You cannot understand. With your present capacities you think a state
+such as I have described would be perfection; but you--I mean, of
+course, your race--will come in time to see imperfections even in such
+a life, and will, with increasing spiritual vision, see still higher
+things to strive for. Let me urge you to keep your hearts attuned to the
+heavenly music and your minds open to divine influences."
+
+Here Thorwald was about to leave us, as we remained in quiet thought
+after his solemn and impressive words. But I kept him a moment to ask
+if they had solved all the mysteries of God's moral government. "By no
+means," he replied. "There are still many things unexplained in God's
+dealings with us, and we think this is well. Life would lose much of its
+value if the time should come when there would be nothing to learn.
+We know much of God's character, but are not acquainted with its full
+depths, and whenever we see or experience anything mysterious in his
+providences we are content to wait for a fuller revelation of truth in
+the future.
+
+"We shall see the time when all our questions will be answered--that is,
+in the world to come--and, in the mean time, we try to strengthen our
+high and beautiful conception of God's character by referring everything
+we do not understand to his loving and gracious qualities, which we know
+so well."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXIX.
+
+A SUDDEN RETURN TO THE EARTH.
+
+
+That night, when the doctor and I were alone, I said to him:
+
+"Well, doctor, what do you think of it all?"
+
+"It would take me a long time," he replied, "to tell what I think. I
+confess I am beginning to imbibe a little of the spirit of this place.
+I have spent my life in the pursuit of material facts, which we supposed
+were the only substantial and valuable things in life Now I find myself
+thinking lightly of such matters, with my mind held in the grasp of far
+different thoughts. I realize now something of the substance and reality
+of unseen things, and believe that man has a spiritual side to
+his nature, which must be developed if he is to fulfill the high
+expectations of our friends in this world. Taught by Thorwald's words
+and by all I have seen here, I have come to that point where I can say
+I am losing my doubts and acquiring a love for things which formerly
+did not exist for me. If we ever return to the earth we shall find
+occupation enough for the rest of our lives in teaching the lessons we
+have learned here."
+
+"Yes," I said, "if we ever return. But doesn't that seem impossible?"
+
+"It certainly is difficult to imagine how it can be accomplished, but
+going home ought not to be any more impossible than our coming here.
+Perhaps we had better bestir ourselves, for Mars is now getting farther
+away from the earth every day. Thorwald says the two planets were nearer
+each other at the recent opposition than ever before since their records
+began, and this is probably what drew our moon here, so fortunately for
+us. For the return trip we might get these generous people to loan us
+Demios or Phobos."
+
+"What are they?"
+
+"Why, don't you know? They are the little satellites of Mars, named
+after the favorite horses of the war god."
+
+"But seriously now," I asked, "how are we to get home?"
+
+"Well, seriously, I don't know," the doctor answered. "Some accident may
+happen to send us away from here in a hurry."
+
+"You know this is not the right world for accidents," I said.
+
+"I am not able to see," he replied, "how they can be sure that they are
+entirely free from accidents. They have been so long without them that
+it seems to me it would not be strange if a big one should come almost
+any day. One must be due, as we say."
+
+In the morning Thorwald met us with a pleasant greeting, as usual, and
+then said:
+
+"I have been surprised that you have not shown more curiosity on one
+subject of vast importance to us. You have not once asked to see our
+comet."
+
+"We have talked of it by ourselves," said the doctor, "but we have been
+too much engrossed in studying your history and customs to think much of
+a topic so far above our comprehension as the comet. Your civilization
+is much higher than we can appreciate, and I am sure we should make
+small progress in attempting to investigate a development that is so
+much beyond yours."
+
+"Your excuse," returned Thorwald, "is as complimentary as it is
+ingenious. But should you not like to see an object which possesses so
+much interest for us?"
+
+"Certainly," the doctor made haste to reply; "and just as soon as you
+choose to take us. You told us it was at the door of a large city. Is it
+far from here?"
+
+"Yes," Thorwald answered, "a long way in miles, but not far in minutes
+if we go by the tubular route. But if it is agreeable to you, suppose we
+take the air line and make a leisurely excursion of it."
+
+We both assured him that we were delighted with the prospect, and I
+suggested that Zenith and the children should accompany us.
+
+"Yes," said Thorwald, "and in anticipation of your consent to go on the
+expedition, I invited some other friends of yours last night to share
+the pleasure with us. And here they are now," he continued, rising and
+stepping to the door.
+
+The doctor and I hurried forward, and were heartily greeted by Proctor,
+the astronomer, and Foedric of the red voice. The latter was accompanied
+by a comely-looking ape, which had been trained to act as his body
+servant. The animal was intelligent, and quick to understand every word
+addressed to him, but quiet and respectful in demeanor, and, to all
+appearance, as well fitted to fill the station he occupied as the
+servants we had been accustomed to seeing on the earth.
+
+Zenith explained to us that in many households the ape and other
+creatures were employed for light services, and were exceedingly useful.
+But as for their own house, she said the work that could not be done by
+mechanical means she preferred to do herself, assisted by her children.
+It was much better that every child should have some stated work to do.
+
+It was not long before we were all on our way to the aerial station,
+where we selected a commodious air ship, managed by one of Foedric's
+friends.
+
+When we were seated comfortably and were enjoying once more the
+exquisite sensation of sailing so easily through that balmy air,
+Thorwald said to the doctor and me:
+
+"We all anticipate a great deal of pleasure in showing you our big
+natural curiosity and what it contains. We want to see your surprise
+when you look upon its vast proportions, and your growing curiosity as
+you try to make out some of its mysteries. Things which baffle our skill
+may be plain to you, and perhaps you will even be able to do something
+with that puzzling language."
+
+"Yes," said the doctor, "if it is beyond your skill we shall no doubt be
+able to read it at sight."
+
+"Well, at any rate," continued Thorwald, "we shall enjoy the novel
+experience of exhibiting the marvel of our whole world to those who
+were, until so recently, entirely ignorant of its existence."
+
+"I hope," I said, "that our behavior will not be such as to disappoint
+you, when we are brought face to face with the object for which you have
+so deep a sentiment.
+
+"But, Thorwald, the doctor and I have been talking about going home. Not
+that we are tiring of your society, but we are filled with a desire to
+tell the people of the earth what we have found on Mars and try to teach
+them some of the good lessons you have given us. The doctor, who has a
+monopoly of the scientific culture in our party, can see no prospect of
+our getting away from your planet. With your more advanced science, can
+you suggest any way by which we can take a dignified leave of you?"
+
+"We should regret exceedingly," replied Thorwald, "to lose you just as
+we are becoming well acquainted, but I have no criticism to make on the
+excuse you offer for wanting to revisit your home. I must say, however,
+that you present to us too hard a problem to solve. With all our
+attainments in astronomy and in the navigation of the air, you went one
+point beyond us when you took passage from the earth to Mars, for we
+have no means by which to express passengers from one planet to another.
+
+"We consider the circumstances of your leaving the earth and your
+journey hither the most remarkable thing of the kind ever heard of, and
+we have nothing in our experience on which we can begin to build any
+scheme for sending you off on so long a flight through space. If you
+will only be content to stay here till we have progressed further with
+our investigations of the high civilization brought to light in our
+comet, perhaps we can help you. The remarkable people whose exalted
+condition is there represented may have had powers in this direction
+of which we cannot conceive. The subject will add even more zest to our
+researches.
+
+"Why do you desire to leave us so soon? You have seen but few of our
+notable improvements, and learned comparatively little of the practical
+workings of our high civilization. And then I have been hoping the
+doctor would come fully into our belief before he went away."
+
+"If you could hear what he has told me," I said, "you would see that
+he is already fit to be sent as a foreign missionary from this blessed
+world to the struggling earth."
+
+"Good!" cried Thorwald. "I am delighted to hear it. If anything could
+reconcile us to the loss of your society, it is the knowledge that you
+will both he glad messengers of hope to your promising race. I rejoice
+that I have had a share in the work of preparing you for your mission.
+
+"And now, suppose we all humor your conceit and give you our parting
+words, as if the ship were at hand which was to sail the mighty void,
+and bear you safely to your distant home.
+
+"Come, wife, friends, the day is young and the air delightful. There is
+nothing to hasten us on our way. Let us ride leisurely along and take a
+little time to speed these earth-dwellers on their prospective journey
+with a few words of cheer.
+
+"Foedric, what advice have you to offer them before they take their
+leave of us?"
+
+Foedric was modest, as we had learned before, but he entered into
+Thorwald's plan with evident pleasure, and said, addressing the doctor
+and me:
+
+"My friends from foreign skies, you do not need advice from me after you
+have been so long with Thorwald and Zenith, but I will send a message to
+your unfortunate fellow beings who have never had the pleasure of their
+acquaintance. When you have related your experiences and told them the
+condition in which you have found us, ask them to call us no longer
+Mars, but Pax, the world of peace. Our planet is red, but not with
+war. Its red is rather the blush of the dawn that ushers in the day of
+universal love. My word to men is to expect the advent of that day, and,
+expecting, to prepare for it. Useless, cruel, inhuman war must cease,
+with all strife and hatred and envy and bitter feeling; and then shall
+you begin to see the full measure of beauty in the song of the angels of
+which you have told us, and 'Peace on earth' will be a blessed fact and
+not a prophecy. Thorwald, I have finished."
+
+"You have spoken well, Foedric," said Thorwald. "And now, what wise
+counsel will you give, Proctor?"
+
+"From what I have learned in regard to the people of the earth," replied
+Proctor, "it seems to me they will be obliged to have a great deal of
+war there yet--war against a world of evils, which must be driven out
+with a strong hand before they can have peace. When each individual has
+subdued his own spirit, then there will be no more war, and no other
+enemies to conquer."
+
+"Study the majesty and power of God as exhibited nightly in the starry
+sky, and learn to revere a being who holds in his hands a million
+worlds, and not only guides their movements but directs with a heart of
+love the minutest affairs of all their inhabitants. Look over the broad
+field of creation, and think of the earth, grand and beautiful as it
+is, as only one among the vast number of peopled orbs, all swinging in
+unison, parts of one plan, every one in its day sending forth a song of
+praise to its maker. So shall your hearts expand and burst the narrow
+bounds of selfish desire and trivial occupation, and you will begin to
+grow into the full stature of the sons of God."
+
+Proctor spoke with such feeling that the doctor and I now began to think
+that these people must be in earnest and were really preparing to send
+us home in some way, but the latter idea was, as will speedily be seen,
+an unjust suspicion.
+
+"Zenith," said Thorwald, "will you take your turn, after Proctor's
+inspiring words?"
+
+"If we were in truth making our farewells to these friends," replied
+Zenith, "I should feel more sadness than I am conscious of now.
+
+"My message, O men, shall be a plea for purity. If you would seek to
+make your world the better for your visit here, teach men everywhere to
+be pure, a hard lesson to learn, but one that will bring a rich reward.
+First make the fountain sweet. Be pure in heart, and then your lives,
+and even your thoughts, will be pure. When you can fully obey the
+command, 'Think no evil,' you will need no other commandment to keep
+your lives unspotted. Such a requirement no doubt seems too difficult
+for you now, but the earth must come to its maturity by following the
+same high ideal which has ever been set before us. There is one law
+for all worlds, an infinitely pure and holy God commands us all to be
+perfect even as he is perfect, although to that perfection nor earth nor
+Mars, nor, perhaps, any other world, has yet attained."
+
+"But, Thorwald, I fear you will not have time to give your farewell
+words before our friends depart."
+
+"I shall not require much time," replied Thorwald, "but I should not
+like to lose the opportunity of adding something to what has already
+been said. I think we have been wise in having this talk, for those who
+could take advantage of such a novel way of coming to us may discover
+some means of going home again before we suspect it."
+
+Then, turning to us, Thorwald continued:
+
+"Go back to the earth, my brothers, and tell men to despair not in their
+conflict with evil; for God reigns, therefore the good will triumph.
+Tell them you found a race of happy beings here, not perfect, but aiming
+toward perfection, having escaped many of the perils that belong to an
+earlier stage of existence. The earth, too, will one day be old. Will it
+be happy then? Your generation can help to make it so. With our history
+to guide us, and with the knowledge you have given us of the earth's
+present condition, we have high hopes of your race, and I venture the
+prediction that your world will see, in the near future, such an advance
+as you have never dreamed of. The era of a united effort to overthrow
+the evil forces is approaching, when all will press with eager, sincere
+hearts into the work, when money will be poured out like water, when men
+will begin to lose their selfishness and take each other by the hand as
+brothers, and when the dark places of the earth will grow bright with
+the light of the gospel.
+
+"I do not wonder you want to get back there. I hope I should have the
+same desire if I were in your place. What a time in which to live, with
+so much good work to do, and such encouragement and sure reward!"
+
+Thorwald's enthusiasm made him eloquent, and we all regarded him
+intently as he spoke. How well I remember that group of persons:
+Proctor, the devout astronomer; the stalwart and earnest Foedric;
+Zenith, the queen of all womanly graces; and Thorwald himself, our
+friend and brother, the rich fruit of an advanced development.
+
+My companion and I were deeply impressed with the words we had heard,
+and could hardly realize that these friends were not aware that our life
+in Mars was nearly over, their farewells were so genuine.
+
+But, hark! Thorwald is still speaking:
+
+"Go back to the earth, I say, and--" a crash, a sensation of falling, a
+dull pain in my head, a new voice at my ear, saying,
+
+"Why, Walter, are you hurt?"
+
+During the effort to recover full consciousness I said:
+
+"There, Doctor, the accident you expected has certainly come."
+
+And then I opened my eyes and discovered that I was sitting in an
+undignified position on the deck of a vessel of some kind.
+
+Again the voice, now more familiar and identified with a lovely face,
+said:
+
+"You must have had that broken chair; I knew it would let you down some
+time. Don't you know me, Walter?"
+
+"Why, yes, it's you, Margaret, isn't it? But where's the doctor?"
+
+"Oh, how are you hurt?" cried Margaret in alarm. "Tell me, and I will
+run for the doctor at once."
+
+This conversation had all passed in a moment, and by the time it was
+finished I had extricated myself from the broken chair with Margaret's
+assistance, and was now wide awake. I had never expected to leave Mars
+without the doctor; but now he was gone with all the rest, and I was
+well content to find myself back by Margaret's side, and to hear her
+pleasant words, the words of a plain inhabitant of the earth, not too
+good to love me a little selfishly. A wave of intense happiness in the
+possession of such a love passed over me. It was a feeling I had never
+before experienced in my waking moments and it must have illumined my
+face, for Margaret continued:
+
+"I don't believe you are hurt at all. You look too happy to be in pain.
+What have you been dreaming about, that makes your face shine so? How
+thankful I am for this bright moonlight. I never saw you have so much
+expression before."
+
+"Margaret," I replied, as soon as she would let me speak, "don't you
+remember you sent me on a quest for my heart? Well, I have found it and
+brought it back to you."
+
+"How lovely to find it so soon," she exclaimed; "and I know by your
+looks it's a large one and full of love. But tell me about it. How did
+it happen?"
+
+"Why, I fell in love with a voice."
+
+"With a voice? Whose voice?"
+
+"Well, it didn't seem to matter much. First it belonged to Mona and then
+to Avis, and part of the time to both of them."
+
+"You make me jealous," said Margaret.
+
+We were now standing, hand in hand, leaning on the rail of the vessel,
+in the full enjoyment of our new-found happiness.
+
+"You will not be jealous," I answered, "when you know all about it. I
+have enough to tell you, Margaret, to occupy a week, I should think.
+I have seen and heard a great deal, and seemed to be living amid other
+scenes for many months, and yet I notice the moon is but two or three
+hours higher than when you left me there in the chair to go and find
+your book. I shall take great pleasure in relating to you the entire
+experience when we have time. Perhaps I will write it out for you. I
+have been stirred as I never expected to be, but I assure you I have
+brought back my whole heart to you. Only," I added, as a sudden flash of
+memory startled me with its vividness, "I should like to hear that voice
+once more."
+
+"Ah," said my companion, "why do you think of that so much? I fear you
+are not quite heart whole. What was there peculiar about the voice?"
+
+"Margaret, it was the most exquisite music anyone ever dreamed of. I
+cannot describe my emotions or the intensity of my enjoyment whenever I
+heard it. First the voice belonged to a beautiful girl whom I thought we
+met on the moon, and who talked only in the language of the birds. Then
+she went to Mars with us, and there I heard the same sweet voice also
+from one of the noble women of that happy planet.
+
+"Oh, what queer things we do in our sleep, and how supremely selfish
+a dreamer is. I once had a theory that we are all responsible for the
+character of our dreams, but I hope, my dear, that you will not call me
+to too strict an account in this case, I should blush to tell you how I
+loved each singer, and yet I know now it was only the voice that charmed
+me. I shall seek my pillow with delight to-night, to try and catch in my
+sleep some faint echo of that song, for I never expect to hear its like
+in my waking hours. You are laughing at me, and I don't wonder. Let me
+see. I dreamed that I dreamed that you and Mona and Avis were all one
+grand, sweet singer. I wonder what would have happened if I had staid
+there long enough to tell Avis something that was on my mind. Perhaps I
+never should have come away.
+
+"But forgive me, dear Margaret, for my enthusiasm for simply a memory,
+and put the blame on my sensitive ears. And now, tell me what you have
+been doing during these long hours. Did you find the professor and get
+your book?"
+
+"Yes, but I had to stay a few minutes and hear him talk. I hurried back,
+however, to be with you, and for my reward found you fast asleep."
+
+"I was only dozing. But what did you do then?"
+
+"Oh, I sat quiet for a while, and then took up the amusement I usually
+follow when I find myself alone."
+
+"What is that? Pray tell."
+
+"Singing, of course."
+
+"Singing?"
+
+"Why, yes, didn't you know I could sing?"
+
+"Do you mean to say you were singing all those two or three hours?"
+
+"Not all the time, but at intervals. I sang so loud sometimes that I
+thought I should wake you."
+
+"Then," I exclaimed with feeling, "it was you that I heard. You know my
+ears are never fully asleep. Margaret, it was your voice that I have
+been falling in love with."
+
+At this Margaret laughed heartily, as she answered:
+
+"You have been a good while finding it out. I knew it all the time.
+That's what I sang for, and I had my pay as I went on, for every time
+I began, whether soft or loud, I could see your face light up with the
+light of your soul, and then I knew my voice was finding its way to some
+corner of your brain."
+
+"How stupid of me," I said, "not to wake up the very first time I heard
+you; but I thought it was Mona. Oh, how it did thrill me! And to think
+I am to hear it again when I am really awake. Come, why do we waste all
+this time in talking when I have that great happiness still unfulfilled?
+May I not hear you sing now?"
+
+"Oh, you might be disappointed, after all. My idea is that you enjoyed
+my singing because all your critical faculties were dulled in sleep, and
+you heard only through your heart, as it were. Don't you think it would
+be better to live awhile on the pleasant memory you have brought back
+with you?"
+
+"Not at all. I can retain the memory, and have the present happiness
+besides."
+
+"But you said you never expected to hear such music in your waking
+hours."
+
+"Do not be so cruel, Margaret, as to recall those words against me,
+although they were really a tribute to you, for it was your own voice
+that forced me to utter them. But what can I do to induce you to sing?"
+
+"Go to sleep," she replied. "I will sing for you all you please when you
+are asleep, and you can hear me and think of Mona at the same time. That
+will be a double pleasure."
+
+"My dear, I prefer to think of you. Mona was a beautiful girl, but she
+could never love me as you do."
+
+"Why so? Wasn't her heart large enough?"
+
+"Yes, it was too large--so large that she loved everybody, and one no
+more than another; while you, darling, have chosen me, out of all the
+people in the world, as the object of your highest and deepest love, and
+yet in doing that have only increased your power of loving others. Now
+what will you do to pay me for that speech?"
+
+"Well, I'll relent. But you must at least pretend to be asleep. Come
+back and find another chair that you can rest in easily, and I will sit
+beside you. There, that will do. Now turn your head away from me, close
+your eyes, and promise me you won't open them till I tell you to do so.
+I intend to have the calm judgment of your ears uninfluenced by your
+sight or any other sense. If you can manage to fall asleep while I am
+singing, so much the better."
+
+"Margaret," I replied, "I shall try hard to keep my eyes closed, but
+there isn't a drug in the ship's dispensary powerful enough to put me to
+sleep."
+
+"Then keep quiet and think of Mona. That will be the next best
+occupation for you. Stop laughing, or I shall disappoint you, after
+all. I should think the memory of the first time I sang for you would be
+enough to sober you. Now I am going to turn away my head, so that if you
+do look around you won't see my face."
+
+I said nothing in reply, being too eager to have her begin. And now I
+had not long to wait for the fulfillment of my oft-expressed desire.
+
+Sweet and low came the first accents of her song, and, with all my
+anticipations and with the foretaste I had had in my sleep, I was not
+prepared for the effect they had on me. It was Mona's voice, but with
+every fine quality so exaggerated that all my faculties, now in the
+fullest sense awake, were completely taken captive. I made no movement,
+except to turn my head slightly so that I might drink in the sweet
+sounds with both ears. As the notes increased in volume my pleasure grew
+to rapture. Not only was my critical taste fully satisfied, which of
+itself was almost bliss, but that other and higher effect followed--my
+heart was enlisted. I had never known love till that hour. We had been
+introduced to each other years ago and had kept up a cold and formal
+acquaintance, and in my recent sleep we had made notable progress,
+but only now did love and I really clasp hands in a warm and lasting
+embrace.
+
+If I had loved Margaret before, then the feeling I now had was something
+else, it was so different. But it was nothing else, and, therefore, I
+was obliged to conclude that I had lived all these years with a false
+notion in my head. As the song changed now and then, but did not
+stop, my heart swelled with its strong emotion, and I had the greatest
+difficulty to keep my promise and remain quiet. At length the music
+ceased, and I jumped from my chair with the intention of giving Margaret
+some palpable sign of my new love, when I was arrested by her warning
+hand and these words:
+
+"Wait, Walter, someone is coming. I can see all you want to tell me in
+your face."
+
+I was obliged to stop, and reserve for a more private place any violent
+manifestation of my exuberant affection, but answered quietly:
+
+"Not all, dear Margaret. You will never know all my love." There was now
+more or less passing back and forth by the passengers, preparing for the
+approaching landing, but yet we were able to continue our conversation.
+At Margaret's request I told her more about Mona and Avis, and the
+principal incidents of what seemed to me a real experience, reserving
+the graver parts of the story for other occasions. Her sympathies went
+out particularly toward Mona, and suggested the question:
+
+"Did not the poor child recover her voice?"
+
+"I think she did soon after we left," I replied. "I neglected to tell
+you that, the morning we started for our last aerial trip, Antonia told
+me she was teaching Mona the use of the vocal organs, and the results
+were already such that she believed she would in a short time be
+entirely successful."
+
+"How fortunate for me," said Margaret, laughing, "that you came away
+just then."
+
+"Oh, Margaret," I exclaimed as loud as I dared, "I thought I was happy
+last night, but what shall I call my condition now? Do you have that
+intensity of feeling for me which is nearly bursting my heart?"
+
+"Yes, my dear, I have had it for years. But my love is certainly
+increasing now, when I see yours flowering out so luxuriantly."
+
+In such sweet converse the time passed rapidly. Steadily our noble
+vessel carried us every moment nearer home. And with the last words of
+Thorwald, "Go back to the earth," still ringing in my ears, we steamed
+amid familiar scenes--the lights from Long Island, New Jersey, Staten
+Island, and soon Liberty's torch, Governor's Island, and the great city
+in front of us. This voyage was ended, but our life's voyage seemed to
+be just beginning as I led Margaret forth with wonderful tenderness and
+whispered in her ear, passionately, the magic words, "I love you."
+
+
+
+
+POSTSCRIPT.
+
+
+Every book should have a purpose. Notwithstanding the popular character
+of much that is contained in these pages, the purpose of this volume is
+a serious one.
+
+I acquired the belief in the habitability of other worlds when quite
+young, and it long ago grew into a settled conviction.
+
+Firmly held by this idea, what is called the astronomical difficulty in
+theology gave me great concern. When I considered the vast extent of the
+universe, and saw, with but little imagination, millions on millions of
+habitable worlds, I felt the force of the old objection, How could our
+tiny earth have been chosen for such peculiar and high honor as we read
+of in the gospel story?
+
+Thomas Chalmers, in the preface to his astronomical discourses,
+states the difficulty in these words: "This argument involves in it an
+assertion and an inference. The assertion is, that Christianity is a
+religion which professes to be designed for the single benefit of our
+world; and the inference is, that God cannot be the author of this
+religion, for he would not lavish on so insignificant a field such
+peculiar and such distinguishing attentions as are ascribed to him in
+the Old and New Testaments."
+
+And then Dr. Chalmers proceeds in his able manner to overthrow both
+assertion and inference. He shows that it is only presumption for the
+infidel to claim that Christianity is designed solely for this world,
+and asks how he is able to tell us, "that if you go to other planets,
+the person and religion of Jesus are there unknown to them." "For
+anything he [the infidel] can tell," the writer continues, "the
+redemption proclaimed to us is not one solitary instance, or not the
+whole of that redemption which is by the Son of God;... the moral
+pestilence, which walks abroad over the face of our world, may have
+spread its desolation over all the planets of all the systems which the
+telescope has made known to us.... The eternal Son, of whom it is said
+that by him the worlds were created, may have had the government of many
+sinful worlds laid upon his shoulders."
+
+In this and in all the rest of his argument Dr. Chalmers, while
+intimating that the redemption may include other worlds, retains the
+belief that the actual occurrences related in the gospel took place only
+on this globe. Others may have heard the story, or, as he beautifully
+says: "The wonder-working God, who has strewed the field of immensity
+with so many worlds, and spread the shelter of his omnipotence over
+them, may have sent a message of love to each, and reassured the
+hearts of its despairing people by some overpowering manifestation of
+tenderness.... Angels from paradise may have sped to every planet their
+delegated way, and sung from each azure canopy a joyful annunciation,
+and said, 'Peace be to this residence and good will to all its families,
+and glory to Him in the highest, who from the eminence of his throne has
+issued an act of grace so magnificent as to carry the tidings of life
+and of acceptance to the unnumbered orbs of a sinful creation.'"
+
+But, as Dr. Chalmers truthfully says, it is not the infidel alone that
+raises this question. It is asked by many sincere believers, generally
+in communion with their own minds, and has disturbed, if not hindered,
+their faith. These brilliant discourses left me still perplexed on the
+main point, and I was forced to ask myself again if it was at all likely
+that one world could be made so unlike all others as to become the only
+scene of such a wonderful event as the death of the Son of God. And even
+if this could be made to seem probable, what an infinitesimal chance
+there would be that our earth would be the one chosen for this
+exhibition, out of the unnumbered worlds that fill the immensity of
+space.
+
+As a feeble hint toward a possible solution of this difficulty, this
+volume is offered. The argument may not be acceptable to a single
+reader. I do not say that I believe it myself; but the thought has
+helped to satisfy my mind and may be of assistance to some other soul.
+I will merely say that, of course, I do not believe the analogy between
+any two worlds is so close as I have made it, for the purposes of the
+story, between Mars and the earth.
+
+In my effort to relieve the book of dullness, I have exaggerated some of
+the situations, as in the treatment of the woman question for example,
+but the intelligent reader will easily discover whether there be
+anything of value remaining after the extravagance has been brushed
+away.
+
+Alvan Clark & Sons, the celebrated makers of telescopic lenses, in view
+of their recent successes in casting larger object-glasses than was once
+thought possible, now assert that they can place no limit to the size
+these glasses may reach in the future. It is only a question of time,
+skill, patience, and money.
+
+Is it, then, presumptuous to believe that the day will dawn when this
+world will know whether Venus or Mars is inhabited? And if either or
+both of them shall be found to be peopled, among the many questions of
+engrossing interest to be studied it seems clear to me that the most
+important will be the moral and spiritual condition of the inhabitants.
+
+THE AUTHOR.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+End of Project Gutenberg's Daybreak: A Romance of an Old World, by James Cowan
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