diff options
Diffstat (limited to '7814-h')
| -rw-r--r-- | 7814-h/7814-h.htm | 14902 |
1 files changed, 14902 insertions, 0 deletions
diff --git a/7814-h/7814-h.htm b/7814-h/7814-h.htm new file mode 100644 index 0000000..f475c26 --- /dev/null +++ b/7814-h/7814-h.htm @@ -0,0 +1,14902 @@ +<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?> + +<!DOCTYPE html + PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Strict//EN" + "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-strict.dtd" > + +<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; } + H1,H2,H3,H4,H5,H6 { text-align: center; margin-left: 15%; margin-right: 15%; } + hr { width: 50%; text-align: center;} + .foot { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; text-indent: -3em; font-size: 90%; } + blockquote {font-size: 97%; font-style: italic; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%;} + .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%;} + .pagenum {display:inline; font-size: 70%; font-style:normal; + margin: 0; padding: 0; position: absolute; right: 1%; + text-align: right;} + .side { float: right; font-size: 75%; width: 25%; padding-left: 0.8em; + border-left: dashed thin; margin-left: 0.8em; text-align: left; + 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%;} + +</style> + </head> + <body> + + +<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 + +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’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’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> + “Walter,” asked Margaret in her impulsive way, “at what temperature does + mercury melt?” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah, I supposed it was understood that I had given it to you.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “What, in words? Isn’t there something that speaks louder than words?” + </p> + <p> + “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.’” + </p> + <p> + “I will confess this much, Margaret, that your words are one of your + principal charms.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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> + “What you need,” said Margaret, “is some violent sensation, some + extraordinary experience to stir your soul.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “That is quite sufficient in that line,” said Margaret. “Now let us come + down to something practicable.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “It would be almost worth the trial if it were not for the other people,” + she returned. “Such a role would become you immensely.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “Just the thing,” exclaimed Margaret, laughing and clapping her hands, “if + you can only be sure she will not return your passion.” + </p> + <p> + “Small chance of that,” I answered. “So you approve the plan, do you?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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’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> + “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: + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “I assure you I was never more in earnest in my life, and I am sorry you + will not sing. Is your answer final?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “No, I shall relapse and be worse than ever. Now is your time to help me + find my heart.” + </p> + <p> + Without answering, Margaret sprang up impulsively, exclaiming: + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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’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—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> + “This is a strange sight. Do you think it is real, or are we all bereft of + our senses?” + </p> + <p> + “Strange indeed, but true,” he answered. + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </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’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. + </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’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’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> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “I am not at all indifferent to the wonderful character of this journey,” + he replied, “but its scientific value swallows up all personal + considerations.” + </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> + “Well, Doctor,” said I, as soon as our feet touched the ground, “the moon + is inhabited now if never before.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, yes,” he answered, “and I am glad to find the inhabitants are of + such a lively disposition.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, who can help being light-hearted,” I rejoined, “when one’s body is so + light?” + </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> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “Agreed,” 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’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’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> + “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.” + </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> + “What’s that?” I exclaimed. + </p> + <p> + “That feels very much like a moon-quake,” replied my companion. + </p> + <p> + I was terribly frightened, but resolved to follow the doctor’s example and + make light of what we could not help. + </p> + <p> + So I said: + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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—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: + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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’s science, but to get some expression of + his thoughts I said to him: + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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’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’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. + </p> + <p> + 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. + </p> + <p> + “Doctor,” said I, when I could control my emotions enough to speak, “where + now?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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> + “Wait!” cried the doctor. “Where are you going?” + </p> + <p> + I could not stop an instant, but answered with feeling: + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” he replied, “if it is such a desperate case as that, I’ll have to + go along to take care of you.” + </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’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> + “Come, come, fear no harm,” it seemed to say, and we were content to + follow blindly, even the doctor no longer objecting. + </p> + <p> + {Illustration: “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> + “It’s a fine day,” 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> + “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?” + </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’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> + “When do you expect the other members of your family home?” + </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> + “I have no friends to come home. I am alone.” + </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> + “But these other houses! Surely they are not all empty?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” she replied, “their inmates are all gone. I am the only inhabitant + left.” + </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, “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. + </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’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”? + </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’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’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> + “You must have taught her those words. I did not.” + </p> + <p> + “I shall have to acknowledge it,” I replied, “but I assure you I did not + influence her to make such use of them.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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’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’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’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’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’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> + “So you see,” she sang, “I was as glad to find you as you were to hear + me.” + </p> + <p> + “But,” asked the doctor, “how did you know we were out there, nearly ready + to be blown off into space?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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’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> + “Aha! let me introduce you to the planet Mars.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” I replied, “and we may become too well acquainted before a great + while if our rapid flight is not checked.” + </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’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> + “Fear,” said the doctor, “is a feeling excited by the apprehension of + danger.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + She laughed aloud as she sang out in joyous notes: + </p> + <p> + “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. + </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’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’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> + “Inconstancy,” I cried, “thy name is Luna.” + </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’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> + “Yes, this is surely the little fellow we are searching for.” + </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> + “But Proctor says Mars has passed its life-bearing period.” + </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> + “Why, how did you know Proctor? You must have misunderstood him, for he + would never say such a thing as that.” + </p> + <p> + While I was puzzling over this strange speech he continued: + </p> + <p> + “I think we have some one in the ship whom you will be glad to see.” + </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> + “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.” + </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’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> + “Where’s Mona?” were the first words he said. + </p> + <p> + “Mona!” I replied. “Who’s Mona?” + </p> + <p> + “Who’s Mona?” he returned. “Well, you have recovered pretty rapidly.” + </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> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” said I, “you found me, and I am very thankful for it, but Mona I + fear you will never see.” + </p> + <p> + “What was the last you saw of her?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + 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. + </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> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “Then, Doctor,” said I, “if we had found inhabitants on the moon what + great folks they must have seemed to us.” + </p> + <p> + This was an exceedingly foolish remark for me to make, for it resulted in + the doctor’s almost betraying his condition to our friends. + </p> + <p> + Of course Thorwald was interested in what I said, and eagerly inquired: + </p> + <p> + “So you found no inhabitants in the moon?” + </p> + <p> + “Just one,” spoke up the doctor quickly. + </p> + <p> + “What! you found one and left him there?” + </p> + <p> + “It was a woman,” 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’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> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + This appeared so reasonable that I said to him: + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “So that is what you call the golden rule, is it?” asked Thorwald. “And + are you all trying to live by it?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + The doctor’s smile was not lost on Thorwald, who replied: + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “It must have helped you greatly,” said I, “in the matter of which you + have just been speaking, that of government.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “Then,” said I, “you have no doubt lost all fear and anxiety over the + conflicting interests of capital and labor.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “Did you find out how thick the crust is?” I asked. + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “What a capital idea that will be,” I interrupted, “to throw at some of + our pessimistic friends on the earth, Doctor.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, we have the fall of meteorites, foreign substances which we believe + the earth encounters in its path around the sun.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + Here the doctor thought he saw a chance to make a point, and spoke as + follows: + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “But we don’t have meteorites now,” replied Thorwald. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, you don’t?” + </p> + <p> + “No, they ceased falling long ago. Mars is going slow enough for the + present.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “There, Doctor,” said I, “you are well answered. And now, Thorwald, tell + us how you have escaped other evils, famine and fire for instance.” + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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> + “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> + “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.” + </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> + “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> + “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.” + </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> + “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? + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “What has brought about this highly interesting condition?” I asked. “Was + there a natural tendency toward perfection on the part of the beasts?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “Does this condition extend even to the fish of the sea?” inquired the + doctor. + </p> + <p> + “Even to the fish of the sea,” answered the Martian. + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “But you haven’t told us,” said I, “what is the source of the power that + does all your work.” + </p> + <p> + “Let me ask,” replied Thorwald, “if you have begun to use electricity + yet?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” I answered, “we are trying to harness it, but it is still far from + obedient to us.” + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “Here we have made full use of both of these valuable helps. Electricity + enters into every department of life. + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + To my experienced eye the doctor’s face looked a little skeptical at this + last remark, and he said: + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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> + “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> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + Here the doctor asked: + </p> + <p> + “And has this singular mode of traveling become popular, Thorwald?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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> + “I fear,” continued Thorwald, “that I am wearying you with this long + talk.” + </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> + “Why did you act so queerly when I spoke of Mona?” + </p> + <p> + “Why did you speak so?” I asked in reply. “And how could you tell Thorwald + we found one inhabitant on the moon?” + </p> + <p> + “Did you want to have me tell him a falsehood?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “My friend,” said the doctor, “I am now confirmed in my suspicion that + your brain was affected by your fall from the moon.” + </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> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + I said all this seriously enough, but the doctor laughed boisterously as + he answered: + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “I must say,” returned the doctor, “I never expected to see you get over + your infatuation so quickly.” + </p> + <p> + “What direction did my infatuation, as you call it, take?” + </p> + <p> + “Marriage, I should say.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly she is, but you surely must be out of your head to call her my + Mona—I want no stronger proof.” + </p> + <p> + “How so?” I asked. + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “This is very laughable,” I exclaimed. + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “True,” answered the doctor, “as to the outside, but you forget our visit + to the interior.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “Very well. You remember, of course, when we found ourselves rushing away + from the earth so swiftly.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “Is that a fact?” asked the doctor. “And do you love her?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, doesn’t she understand it now?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I think so, but she thought I didn’t show heart enough in my + wooing.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you know what I think about you?” asked the doctor. + </p> + <p> + “No.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “You will be disappointed,” said I, “if you think I shall be more than + civil to her.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “And did you find any inhabitants at all?” asked Thorwald. + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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> + “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.” + </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> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “And are we to understand, Thorwald,” I asked, “that you believe all this + rest from trouble and wrongdoing is coming to the earth, too?” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “In these and many other directions,” I answered, “I think we can see + improvement.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “But, Thorwald,” I asked, “can you not tell us something of these higher + pursuits?” + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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> + “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> + “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> + “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.” + </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> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “What has been the general opinion among you on that subject?” asked + Thorwald. + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “But what are your own views, Doctor?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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> + “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> + “You start, then, without prejudice, on a voyage of discovery, aided by + your telescope and your reasoning faculties. + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “They make very pretty objects for us to look at,” replied my companion. + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “And do you think,” asked Thorwald, “that the myriads of stars were also + made simply to delight the eye of man?” + </p> + <p> + “How do I know that they were not?” the doctor asked in reply. + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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> + “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.” + </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’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 “by your leave,” + Thorwald touched a button, and we were off. + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </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> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, this seems more like a private park than a city. Where are your + crowded streets and houses for the poor?” + </p> + <p> + “After all I have told you of our high civilization, Doctor, do you not + understand that we have long since abolished poverty?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “But,” asked the doctor, “with the population spread out in this marvelous + way, is there room for everybody?” + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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> + “You spoke, Doctor, about the people owning these houses. No one owns + them.” + </p> + <p> + “Do they belong to the state?” asked the doctor. + </p> + <p> + “There is no state.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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> + “So you earth-dwellers are still in the habit of buying and selling land, + are you?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “I certainly do,” I said. + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “Would not such palaces as these on this beautiful street bring a good + rent?” I inquired. + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “But would you go to all the trouble of moving without even knowing his + reason?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “But would you not have to move all the furniture?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “Under such conditions,” said I, “what we call the eighth commandment + would be superfluous.” + </p> + <p> + “If that refers to theft,” answered Thorwald, “you are certainly right, + for it is impossible to steal where everything is free. + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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’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> + “Can it be possible that we are to travel in this apartment?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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> + “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.” + </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> + “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.” + </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> + “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.” + </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> + “You have seen all any of us can see,” said Thorwald. + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + 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. + </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—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> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “I am sure,” I answered, “that the advantage is greatly on our side.” + </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> + “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.” + </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’s speech. + Of course, I could not ignore the allusion, and said: + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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> + “Do you think Antonia is as handsome as Mona?” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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> + “Besides its expedition, there is another feature to recommend their way + of traveling.” + </p> + <p> + “What is that?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, there is no danger of getting a seat just behind a window fiend.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “Is it not just as beautiful at sunset after a shower?” I asked. + </p> + <p> + “Oh,” answered Thorwald, “I haven’t told you that it never rains in the + day-time, have I?” + </p> + <p> + “No, indeed, that’s another surprise for us. But how is it managed?” + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “What of those people,” I asked, “whose occupation or pleasure calls them + out in the night?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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> + “This would be a pretty poor place for an umbrella trust, wouldn’t it?” + </p> + <p> + As we left our place of outlook and made our way down stairs, Thorwald + resumed: + </p> + <p> + “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> + “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> + “But this is getting to be quite a long talk for so early in the morning. + Let us see if breakfast is not ready.” + </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> + “If it is proper for me to ask, will you tell us how this is done, Mrs. + ——” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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> + “Yes,” I answered, “I should like to see the earth.” + </p> + <p> + “No doubt, my friend, but I don’t see exactly how I am going to take you + there.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “Then, of course,” said I, “we will choose one nearer home for our visit.” + </p> + <p> + “Why so?” asked Thorwald. “It is always wise to get the best when you + can.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “In five minutes,” answered Zenith. + </p> + <p> + “Then we had better get off at once,” 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> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “But suppose you want to go east?” + </p> + <p> + “Then we go west to get east, and we arrange the speed so as to get to our + destination in the day-time.” + </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’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> + “Call him by his name, just as you do the rest of us. We have but one name + each.” + </p> + <p> + “I should think that would be confusing,” said I. “For example, how are + you to be distinguished from any other Thorwald?” + </p> + <p> + “There is no other that I ever heard of. There are names enough to go all + around.” + </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> + “Proctor is a friend of yours, is he not?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly,” answered Thorwald, “what could he be but a friend? But then I + never saw him before today.” + </p> + <p> + “Is it possible? Are strangers always treated so hospitably?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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’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. + </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> + “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.” + </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> + “Can anyone present tell me who it was that woke me in the night ‘with + concord of sweet sounds’?” + </p> + <p> + A general smile passed around the table at this question, while Fronda + looked at me and said pleasantly, + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “It was no disturbance, I assure you. But is Avis present? I should like + to thank her for the great pleasure she gave me.” + </p> + <p> + “No,” replied Fronda, “she took an early breakfast and started out for a + long walk.” + </p> + <p> + “Then I may as well tell you all about it,” 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> + “So the voice of Avis was a little familiar to you?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” I replied, “but I am not able to tell from what niche in memory’s + hall it comes.” + </p> + <p> + “Does it recall anything you heard or saw on the moon?” + </p> + <p> + “That dreadful place? No, indeed,” I replied. “Are you going to bring up + Mona again?” + </p> + <p> + “You asked me never to mention that name again, and now you have spoken + it.” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” I asked, “will you forgive me for that foolish request if I will + let you talk to me about her now?” + </p> + <p> + “I am not anxious to talk about her,” the doctor answered, “especially as + I know the topic is not a pleasant one to you.” + </p> + <p> + Without noticing this last remark, I asked abruptly: + </p> + <p> + “Was Mona a good singer?” + </p> + <p> + “Fair.” + </p> + <p> + “As good as Avis?” + </p> + <p> + “I think so, though I am not a critic.” + </p> + <p> + “Did I understand you to say she was handsome?” + </p> + <p> + “Beautiful.” + </p> + <p> + “And I fell in love with her?” + </p> + <p> + “You had all the symptoms. But why do you insist on talking on such a + disagreeable subject? Come, let’s go and find Proctor.” + </p> + <p> + “Wait. One question more. Have you seen Avis?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “Who is she?” + </p> + <p> + “I believe she is a friend of the family merely.” + </p> + <p> + “Does she live here?” + </p> + <p> + “She is staying here for the present.” + </p> + <p> + “Is she beautiful, too?” + </p> + <p> + “I shall leave you to be your own judge of that when you see her. Now, not + another question.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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’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. + </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’s hand, and exclaimed: + </p> + <p> + “I see it all now, old fellow. You were right and I was the crazy one.” + </p> + <p> + “Good, I rejoice with you.” + </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’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> + “Hasn’t Avis appeared? I thought she was an early riser.” + </p> + <p> + To which Fronda quickly replied: + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “I remember,” answered Thorwald, “I was just asking you what theory you of + the earth hold on that important topic.” + </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> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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’s frowns, Thorwald showed a lively + appreciation and insisted that I should be heard. + </p> + <p> + “Not another word from me,” he said, “till we have had the story.” + </p> + <p> + With such encouragement, it was easy for me to proceed. + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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> + “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> + “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> + “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> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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> + “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.” + </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> + “You have told me,” he said, “of some of your earlier beliefs about the + origin of meteorites. Have you any more modern views?” + </p> + <p> + 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.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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? + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + 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. + </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> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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> + “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> + “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> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “No,” replied Thorwald, “but for what other conceivable purpose were these + bodies created?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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> + “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> + “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> + “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> + “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> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + 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: + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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> + “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> + “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> + “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> + “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> + “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> + “This was the extent of the knowledge obtained of the interesting object + until the beginning of the present age of advanced civilization. + </p> + <p> + “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> + “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> + “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.” + </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> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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> + “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> + “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.” + </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> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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’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> + “Pardon me, but may I ask you a question?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “I did not, I am sure. I have met no young girl, and I could not see any + one by the name of Avis.” + </p> + <p> + “Why so?” + </p> + <p> + “Because there is no such girl.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you know her?” she asked. + </p> + <p> + “No—or, rather, I hope so; I cannot tell till I see her.” + </p> + <p> + “That’s curious. Have you ever met her?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “But her name cannot be Avis.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, yes, it is. It is quite plain that you do not know her.” + </p> + <p> + “I beg your pardon,” she returned, “there is but one person in all this + country by the name of Avis.” + </p> + <p> + “Then that is the very person I am trying to find.” + </p> + <p> + “You have found her.” + </p> + <p> + “Where?” + </p> + <p> + “Right here. I am she.” + </p> + <p> + I laughed outright and said: + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “How do you know she is young?” + </p> + <p> + “Why,” I answered, “of course she is young.” + </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> + “I know she is young, because I have heard her sing.” + </p> + <p> + 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. + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “And where, if I may ask, did you find that one?” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “You have forgotten,” she answered, “what I told you. I am Avis.” + </p> + <p> + “Not my Avis, the singer.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, the very same, and I can prove it.” + </p> + <p> + “How?” + </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’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> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “Then,” I exclaimed, with sorrow and despair in my voice, “I have indeed + found Avis, but, alas! I have once more lost Mona.” + </p> + <p> + “How so?” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “Are you so fond of singing, or is it because you like to be reminded of + Mona?” + </p> + <p> + “Both, I assure you.” + </p> + <p> + “Does my voice sound like hers in conversation?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, no, Mona never talked as we do. Everything she wanted to say she + sang.” + </p> + <p> + “You surprise me,” said Avis. “I should think she would soon become + tiresome to her friends.” + </p> + <p> + “If you had ever known her you would not make such a remark as that.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “I thank you very much, and I promise you I shall walk as slowly as + possible.” + </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> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “You know there is nothing to forgive,” I replied. Then Zenith said: + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “How thoughtful you are,” I exclaimed. “But why do we not hurry home? + Perhaps she is found.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + 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. + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “I have,” answered Foedric, “and I am exceedingly pleased to make their + acquaintance.” And then turning to the doctor, he said: + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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> + “Say that again, Antonia,” spoke Foedric. + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “Very well,” Foedric responded, “then I, too, will be silent.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you must believe the same of me,” 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> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + As we smiled at Thorwald’s words, Zenith showed her interest by saying: + </p> + <p> + “The subject reminds me of that epoch in our history of which we read, + when all the world went without eating for a time.” + </p> + <p> + “Without eating?” asked the doctor. + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + The doctor did not try to hide his interest in this recital, and as soon + as Zenith paused he said: + </p> + <p> + “My friend and myself are most truly thankful that that custom did not + continue to the present day. But did it remain long?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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> + “You are sad—I think I will send for Avis to come over and cheer you + up.” + </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> + “We have heard you several times speak reverently of a God. Will you tell + us definitely what your religion is?” + </p> + <p> + “With pleasure,” he replied. “We worship one God, the maker of all things, + and his Son, Jesus Christ, who gave his life for us.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, how did you hear of his death, Thorwald?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “But Jesus died on the earth too, and you but describe his relations to + us.” + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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!’ + </p> + <p> + “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.’ + </p> + <p> + “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> + “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> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + 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. + </p> + <p> + 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. + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + 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: + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “I do not know that such a being did come to the earth.” + </p> + <p> + “What!” exclaimed Thorwald, “is there any doubt of it? Has your companion + here been deceived? Must we give up our new-found joy?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “A good man! Nothing more?” + </p> + <p> + “I don’t know,” answered the doctor. + </p> + <p> + “What do you believe?” + </p> + <p> + “I do not allow myself to have any belief.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “Before such mysteries, and in answer to all questions relating to what is + called the supernatural, I always say, ‘I do not know.’” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + To this the doctor replied: + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, are there not any in Mars?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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’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. + </p> + <p> + In this mind Thorwald said: + </p> + <p> + “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> + “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> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “We shall he very glad to know what you consider the spring of all the + vast improvement in your race,” I remarked. + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, what reason can there be for that?” Thorwald inquired with eager + interest. + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “In the circumstances, I think you are excusable,” replied the doctor; + “and, besides, I believe I introduced the topic.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + We promised to do so, and Thorwald began: + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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> + “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> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you mean,” I asked, “that your vast improvement in material affairs + has come through Christianity?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + 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. + </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> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “That will make a pleasant party,” 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> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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’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> + “We are taking them for the ride,” said Thorwald, “and you may choose any + course and go to any height you please.” + </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—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> + “Foedric is a scholar,” said Thorwald, “and is engaged just now in writing + a treatise on the color of sounds.” + </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—the + application of electricity to flying machinery, perhaps. But Thorwald + further enlightened us, the talk going on in Foedric’s presence: + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “I would like to ask about the color of Antonia’s voice,” I said, “and + Avis’s, too.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + This recital excited the doctor’s interest amazingly, and as Thorwald + closed he said: + </p> + <p> + “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!” + </p> + <p> + 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: + </p> + <p> + “The moon! Look!” + </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> + “It cannot be more than a few miles away. Why not go and make it a visit?” + </p> + <p> + To her surprise, if people of such high endowments ever are surprised, + Thorwald asked quickly: + </p> + <p> + “Are you willing to try it if the rest of us are?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly,” she replied. + </p> + <p> + “Foedric,” said Thorwald, “what do you say to flying out to the moon and + attempting an invasion of it?” + </p> + <p> + “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: + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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> + “Although you gave your consent, you look as if you did not enjoy the + prospect of another visit to the moon.” + </p> + <p> + Thorwald heard this remark, and after a glance at me he said: + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + 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. + </p> + <p> + “Thorwald,” I exclaimed, “keep right on! I want to go now. I have changed + my mind.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “Don’t you know? Mona is there.” + </p> + <p> + “Where?” + </p> + <p> + “In the moon, of course.” + </p> + <p> + “How do you know that? You seem to be pretty confident.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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. + </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> + “Remember,” said the doctor, “that you are not to judge the earth by what + you see of her old satellite.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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> + “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.” + </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> + “Yes,” Foedric answered, “I am sure we have power enough here to overcome + the attraction and get away whenever we please.” + </p> + <p> + Thorwald, who had been intently studying the surface through the + telescope, now spoke out with some excitement in his voice: + </p> + <p> + “Doctor, I begin to think you did not make a thorough investigation of the + moon’s condition. Did you not report it practically uninhabited?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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’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. + </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’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’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> + “I am flattered,” she said, “but what do you want to have me do?” + </p> + <p> + “Sing,” I answered. + </p> + <p> + “What for? You needn’t be afraid of the dark, for we can give you light + enough.” + </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> + “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.” + </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’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> + “Hark, hear the echo!” + </p> + <p> + “Ho!” I cried, “that’s not an echo. That’s the original, and Avis is the + echo. Sing out again, Avis.” + </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’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’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> + “So I understand you to say he would not give me up as lost?” + </p> + <p> + It was the pink voice of Zenith that answered: + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “And he admired my singing?” said Mona in a questioning tone. + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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’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: + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, Mona,” I said to myself, “if this be suffering, let me never know + happiness.” + </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’s voice broke + the silence. + </p> + <p> + “How is he, Mona? Is there any change?” + </p> + <p> + “No,” replied my beloved, “he hasn’t stirred nor shown a sign of + consciousness. Cannot something more be done for him?” + </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> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “But you forget,” said Zenith, “that Mona herself will be here to sing for + him.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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> + “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.” + </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> + “I do remember you, dear Mona, and shall never forget you. Doctor, you see + your science has proved false again.” + </p> + <p> + “And glad indeed I am that it has,” he rejoined, “since it is so greatly + to our advantage.” + </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’s immediate company, though no one seemed to + think we need feel at all embarrassed when our conversation was overheard + by others. + </p> + <p> + “Mona,” I said, “were you glad to see our relief party when they arrived?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, did you think I would mourn for you?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, yes, I think that would be natural, considering something I know.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, I should like to hear what you know.” + </p> + <p> + “If I tell you, I shall have to make a confession.” + </p> + <p> + “What is a confession, and how can you make one? Have you anything to make + it of?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” said Mona, “if that is it, I am sure I shall never have to make + one, for I have never done anything wrong.” + </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> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “And did I say anything to displease you?” + </p> + <p> + “No, indeed; you said you loved me, and it made me very happy.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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—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> + “They seem well pleased with each other’s society. Are you not afraid + Foedric will lose his heart to her?” + </p> + <p> + “My friend,” she replied, “we never even think of such things as that. I + hope you are not serious in asking the question.” + </p> + <p> + “Forgive me, Antonia,” I answered; “I hardly know what I am saying.” + </p> + <p> + And then I rose and followed Mona, and said to her when I came near: + </p> + <p> + “Well, my dear, what do you and Foedric find so pleasant to talk about?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + I controlled myself enough to ask: + </p> + <p> + “And what did Foedric say?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “Now, Mona, do you think it is right to make sport of such a serious + matter?” + </p> + <p> + “I assure you I am in earnest in all I have said.” + </p> + <p> + “Then are you trying to deceive Foedric?” + </p> + <p> + “Deceive him? What is that?” + </p> + <p> + “Telling him what isn’t true.” + </p> + <p> + “No, indeed. I would never do that.” + </p> + <p> + “It is true, then, that you love him?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly it is; isn’t it, Foedric?” + </p> + <p> + I did not wait for Foedric to answer, but continued: + </p> + <p> + “And still a short time ago you said you loved me.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, is that any wonder, after what you have done for me?” + </p> + <p> + “But do you love us both at once?” + </p> + <p> + “I do.” + </p> + <p> + “And do you love Foedric as much as you do me?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly. Why shouldn’t I? And now let me ask you a question. Do you + love me?” + </p> + <p> + “With all my heart.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + Foedric began to protest that Antonia would not care, but Mona went right + on with: + </p> + <p> + “Another complication. What possible difference could it make to Antonia?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, Antonia and Foedric love each other, you know.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, no,” I replied hastily. “Or, at any rate, not in the same way that I + love you.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “Mona,” I asked, as she finished, “where did you get such a heart? You are + showing me how utterly selfish I have been.” + </p> + <p> + “Good-by,” she exclaimed; “I am going back to Antonia. May I love her?” + </p> + <p> + “You may love everybody,” 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—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. + </p> + <p> + 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. + </p> + <p> + 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. + </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> + “Let us step into the music room,” said Thorwald. “Doctor, what + acquaintance have you with the telephone?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “Does it minister to any other sense than the hearing?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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> + “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.” + </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> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + This speech pleased Zenith exceedingly, and her emotion made her voice and + manner more charming than ever as she said: + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + We all smiled at Zenith’s happy assurance that the earth was on the upward + path, and Thorwald said: + </p> + <p> + “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> + “And now, should you like to see how the telephone works in every-day + matters?” + </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> + “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> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “These waterfalls must fortunately be well distributed,” remarked the + doctor. + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “Doctor, what is the best metal you have for transmitting electricity?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, you surely do not mean it is given away,” exclaimed the doctor, + “after all the expense connected with producing and transmitting it.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “Of what value would it be to us?” asked Thorwald. “We could not use it.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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> + “You discovered my favorite department of art this morning. Now is a good + time to learn what Thorwald’s is.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + 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. + </p> + <p> + It was now time for Thorwald to speak, and he remarked quietly: + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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> + “Very well, we will then go into the music room again, if you please.” + </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> + “So you have kept the theater, have you? Some good people on the earth + think the drama is demoralizing.” + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </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> + “This is an altogether comfortable and satisfactory situation.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” added Zenith, “we think it is almost as good as being actually + present in the theater.” + </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> + “Well, my friends, I suppose you will go to church with us to-day?” + </p> + <p> + “To church?” asked we in one breath. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, this is Sunday.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “Let me see,” said Thorwald, “I believe this is the first Sunday we have + spent at home since you came to us.” + </p> + <p> + “Then how long is your week?” + </p> + <p> + “Ten days.” + </p> + <p> + “That accounts for our misunderstanding,” I said, “for our Sunday comes + every seventh day.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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> + “Mona,” I said, one day, “I wish you would ask me to do something real + hard for you.” + </p> + <p> + “Why?” she asked. + </p> + <p> + “So that I could show you how much I love you.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “Because I do not love her as much as I do you.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “No, the doctor and I are both grateful to you for that kindness, but + gratitude isn’t love.” + </p> + <p> + “I haven’t done anything else for you,” she said. + </p> + <p> + “It isn’t for anything you have done that I love you.” + </p> + <p> + “What then?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, I don’t know. I suppose it is because I can’t help it.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, then you are becoming like me, for I can’t help loving everybody.” + </p> + <p> + “I shall never be good enough for that,” said I. “What is love, as you + understand it?” asked Mona. + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “Then I fear you do not love me,” I responded, with great sadness in my + voice. + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “Hatred; or, in such a case as this, indifference would be about as bad as + anything.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “No, Mona, you seem to be the most loving creature in all the worlds we + have ever known, but—” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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> + “Certainly,” she replied, “I can tell you something from my own + recollections, but more from our traditions.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, were the men of the moon all sensible, or were they all like me?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “Let me ask if everyone was worthy of being loved?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, as to that, we were all alike. What do you think of me?” + </p> + <p> + “You know what I think of you, Mona; or, if you do not, I will tell you.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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’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. + </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’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> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, the fact is,” answered the doctor, “I am ready to believe almost + anything now.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, I wish Thorwald could hear you say that.” + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + To which the doctor replied: + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you then all have equal pay for your work, and that so much that it + places you above anxiety?” asked the doctor. + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “But what is the incentive to labor if you get nothing for it, and can + live just as well without it?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + To this Thorwald replied: + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “Are all equally well educated?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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> + “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> + “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> + “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> + “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> + “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> + “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> + “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.” + </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> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “Why,” I asked, “is there more than one motive higher than patriotism?” + </p> + <p> + “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? + </p> + <p> + “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> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + 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: + </p> + <p> + “Doctor, I think our friend must belong to your party.” + </p> + <p> + “I should rather belong to his party,” replied the doctor. + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + 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. + </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’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’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> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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> + “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> + “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.’” + </p> + <p> + “And now,” asked Zenith, “how do you think the affair came out?” + </p> + <p> + “I confess,” I answered, “that I shall have to give it up.” + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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> + “I trust not,” 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> + “Yes,” he said, “I shall be glad to do so, for I had not reached the + important part when our sitting broke up yesterday. + </p> + <p> + “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> + “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"> +“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. +</pre> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you mean that all business was conducted dishonestly?” I asked. + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “Excuse me, Thorwald,” I said; “I am dull. What was there wrong in their + manner of doing business?” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “But the system itself made men selfish,” I ventured to say. + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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> + “But were not the great majority of business men honest, and were not + these instances that you have cited extreme cases?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “Were they?” I asked eagerly. + </p> + <p> + “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> + “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> + “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> + “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> + “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.” + </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> + “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> + “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> + “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> + “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> + “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> + “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> + “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> + “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> + “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> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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> + “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> + “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> + “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> + “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> + “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> + “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> + “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> + “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> + “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> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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> + “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> + “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> + “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?” + </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> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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—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> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + In her sweet accents, so charming to every ear, Mona responded: + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “Not understand? Why, I know from former conversations with you that such + things are not beyond your comprehension.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you,” said Mona, “but I think they are, for I never before heard + anything like the ideas you have advanced.” + </p> + <p> + “We shall all be glad to learn, then, how these questions were answered + and these wrongs righted by your ancestors.” + </p> + <p> + “They never had any such perplexities,” responded Mona. + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, no,” she sang out, “that’s not it. What had they to struggle over?” + </p> + <p> + “Was it then so easy for them to be just?” asked Thorwald. + </p> + <p> + “Certainly, and I have been exceedingly surprised to learn by your long + talk that there is such a thing as injustice.” + </p> + <p> + We were all becoming thoroughly interested, but left it for Thorwald to + continue his questions. + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “Was there never any sickness there?” I asked. + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, all I can say is that I am thankful I was not discovered till after + the moon had deserted the earth.” + </p> + <p> + “Tell us more about your race,” said the doctor. “Were they all as good as + you are?” + </p> + <p> + “Just the same. There were no degrees in goodness.” + </p> + <p> + “And did they all sing as they talked, and in such sweet tones as yours?” + I asked. + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “And did everything else in your life there correspond to your charming + manner of talking?” asked Thorwald. + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + 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. + </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> + “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.” + </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> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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> + “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> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “I am sure you will find it a great relief for me to change the subject, + or stop talking.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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: “A fine morning.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “We shall be delighted to accompany you, and as I see breakfast is ready I + will go up and tell the doctor to hurry.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “Get where?” asked Thorwald. + </p> + <p> + “To get anywhere or to do anything that we set out to accomplish,” I + answered. + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “You wouldn’t miss much, Thorwald.” + </p> + <p> + “We certainly should regret exceedingly not learning many things that you + could tell us,” he said. + </p> + <p> + “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. + </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’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> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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? + </p> + <p> + “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> + “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> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “Notwithstanding which,” said I, “here you are sitting at your own table + and pouring into our glasses this delicious wine.” + </p> + <p> + As a smile passed around at this remark it was Zenith who said: + </p> + <p> + “Do you see anything incongruous in that?” + </p> + <p> + I paused a moment to choose a reply, when the doctor spoke up with: + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “I think,” I replied, “that I have heard some such term as ‘hypocrite’ + applied to men of that class.” + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “Will you not tell us,” I asked, “how the reform was finally effected on + Mars?” + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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> + “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.” + </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’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’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’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> + “Mona, they will think we have eloped.” + </p> + <p> + “Excuse me,” came out in sweet notes, “you will have to explain.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, is it wrong to elope?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “What subject is that? I have forgotten that I have ever put you under + such a prohibition.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “Forgive me,” I exclaimed. “If you will promise me not to sing in that + tone again I will talk about anything you wish.” + </p> + <p> + “I agree,” she responded, and never did her accents sound sweeter. + </p> + <p> + 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. + </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> + “If we can find any kind of a boat on the shore we will have a ride on the + water.” + </p> + <p> + “Can you manage a boat?” she asked. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, yes, if it is not too large.” + </p> + <p> + “But it may be some new kind, something you are not acquainted with.” + </p> + <p> + “Then I shall have to study it out. But you are not afraid to go on the + water with me, are you?” + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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> + “Are you sure you understand how to manage it? It is all so strange to + me.” + </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’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> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, no, it can’t be that, because there is nothing to fear. Are you ready + now? Let me take your hand.” + </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> + “I turned the boat around some time ago, and we are now headed directly + for the place where we found it.” + </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> + “Isn’t this a little too fast? Something might happen.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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> + “Can you swim, Mona?” 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> + “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.” + </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> + “Can you hear me, Mona?” + </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> + “I hope this will make you more affectionate to me, dear Mona,” I said; + and then, as she made no answer, I continued: + </p> + <p> + “If we reach the shore alive and get home safe you will love me more than + you do Foedric, will you not?” + </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> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + 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: + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </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’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> + “Why, Mona,” I exclaimed, “can’t you speak?” + </p> + <p> + She shook her head. + </p> + <p> + “Nor sing, I mean?” + </p> + <p> + Another shake. + </p> + <p> + “Do you mean to say you have lost your voice?” + </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> + “Why, my dear,” I answered, “I thought you were angry with me for speaking + to you again about my love.” + </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’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> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + I quite agreed with him, and took the first opportunity when we were all + together to introduce the subject. + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “Zenith.” + </p> + <p> + “Thorwald.” + </p> + <p> + Two answers in one breath. + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, no,” answered Thorwald; “we never think of such a thing, and yet you + must admit that things run smoothly without it.” + </p> + <p> + “I will then try again, if you please,” I said. “Which of you is the + bread-winner?” + </p> + <p> + To which Zenith replied: + </p> + <p> + “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—” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “But when disputes arise, which one gives in?” + </p> + <p> + “Disputes never arise, and if they did we would both ‘give in,’ whatever + that expression means.” + </p> + <p> + “If not your wills, do not your wishes or inclinations sometimes oppose + each other?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + While I was considering what next to ask, the doctor broke in with: + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “I suppose,” said the doctor, “you refer to our feeble and, it appears, + stupid efforts to be polite.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “We have been taught to pay an extra deference to women,” answered the + doctor. + </p> + <p> + “Why?” asked Zenith. “Because they are superior beings?” + </p> + <p> + “Hardly that, I think.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “That sounds harsh,” said the doctor, “and I believe you are not correct.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “True,” said Zenith; “that is a good reason why she should be protected.” + </p> + <p> + “And should we not maintain and practice toward her the spirit of true + courtesy?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + Zenith gave a pleasant little pink laugh and answered: + </p> + <p> + “I see you have found me out. But you do not deny that my logic is + correct.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “I will try again, then, by asking if the two sexes have always been so + happily equal as at this time.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </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> + “Very well, since Thorwald is so kind, I will do my best, if you are sure + you will not tire of hearing me talk.” + </p> + <p> + The doctor and I expressed our pleasure with the arrangement, and Zenith + began: + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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> + “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> + “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> + “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> + “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> + “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> + “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> + “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> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </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> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “It is,” I replied. + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “Liberty!” I echoed. “Were they really deprived of liberty?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, liberty to choose a calling that would suit their individual tastes + and satisfy their growing ambition.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </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> + “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> + “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> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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> + “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> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “A drive,” I asked, “what do you drive?” + </p> + <p> + “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. + </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> + “Do you mean to say,” I inquired, “that such a turnout as this can be had + for the asking?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “The horses appear to be well broken,” the doctor remarked. + </p> + <p> + “Broken,” said Zenith, “what do you mean by that, Doctor?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “It would be a good thing if we had more of that sentiment on the earth,” + said the doctor. + </p> + <p> + {Illustration: “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’s solicitation, resumed her narrative. + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “How do you know?” asked Zenith. + </p> + <p> + “It has been proved so in all ages.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + To which Zenith replied: + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + We all laughed at the doctor’s want of courage, and Zenith answered: + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “Is that faculty akin to anything else with which you are acquainted?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, we call it instinct in animals.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “I had not thought of it,” returned the doctor, “but it certainly may be + looked upon as a sad commentary on that rude age.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you consider this instinct an advantage to woman?” asked Zenith. + </p> + <p> + “Certainly; it is a great help to her, often serving with much success in + place of other faculties.” + </p> + <p> + “Would it be a valuable quality to add to man’s mental equipment?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, indeed, if he could retain all his other powers of mind.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “That is a very large ‘if,’ and I cannot tell you what would happen,” + answered the doctor. + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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> + “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> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + We all smiled at this expression, and the doctor asked: + </p> + <p> + “How did it overturn the world?” + </p> + <p> + “By aiding in taking the real brain work away from the men and giving it + to the women.” + </p> + <p> + “Did this actually happen?” + </p> + <p> + “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> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “I must answer in the negative,” replied the doctor, “although I perceive + it will help your argument.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, how would such an argument be received?” asked Zenith. + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “I would not be too sure, Doctor,” spoke up Thorwald. “Better wait till + Zenith is through.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “How about the home?” asked the doctor. “Did man take the place of woman + there?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “Was there no department in which the men were masters?” inquired the + doctor. + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + The doctor was bound to learn all he could about this curious state of + things, and asked again: + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + We all laughed heartily at this idea, including the doctor himself, who + continued: + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + Thorwald had been getting more and more interested, as I could see by his + face, and now broke out with: + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “Many thanks, Thorwald,” exclaimed Zenith, “for your good help. And now, + Doctor, will you ask anything further?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “In spite of the sweetness and beauty surrounding them, did not men fret + at the firm hand that held them down?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “How long did such a state of things continue?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “Doctor, are you sure you desire to hear about the growth of Christianity + in this world and the blessings it has brought us?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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> + “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> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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> + “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> + “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> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + Thorwald smiled his answer, and without further reply continued: + </p> + <p> + “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> + “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.” + </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> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + Thorwald smiled, as he answered: + </p> + <p> + “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> + “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.” + </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> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “We might differ over the meaning of the phrase ‘strictly honest,’ but I + will answer your question by saying it is certainly wrong.” + </p> + <p> + “But it seems to be a part of our very nature.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you offer that as a reason for its being right? I never heard you + claim that human nature was perfect,” said Thorwald. + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + I thanked Thorwald for his faith in us, and he resumed his narrative. + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + I told Thorwald I could apply his illustration to our condition and we + would try to profit by it. + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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> + “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.” + </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’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: + </p> + <p> + “Why, but for our friend, and others who pry into these things for us, we + would never know we had any nerves.” + </p> + <p> + “Happy will our race be,” responded the doctor, “when it arrives at the + same blissful ignorance.” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” continued Zenith, “if your opinion is the correct one, what have + we to hope for in Mona’s case?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + 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. + </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> + “Come to me, my love, come quickly. I know your voice and the meaning of + your song, and my heart responds to yours.” + </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> + “Oh, Avis,” I exclaimed with vexation, “I thought you were Mona again. I + supposed you were on the other side of the world.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </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’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’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’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. “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “Why?” + </p> + <p> + “Because I thought from your manner that you did not love me as you used + to.” + </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> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “I think you will not be pained when I say you have had a wrong + impression.” + </p> + <p> + “Why do you think such a discovery will not pain me?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, after all, you do love me a little, do you not, Mona?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “I will promise,” I answered; “but what will you do if you find I am + loving another person more than you?” + </p> + <p> + “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—” + </p> + <p> + “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: + </p> + <p> + “Oh, I was mistaken. Antonia is not the one.” + </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—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? + </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’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. + </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> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + A Martian never loses self-possession and is never at a loss what to say + to the most unexpected proposition. + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </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> + “Zenith, this province must be the New England of Mars, by the way you + evade my question and ask another.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “Mona is not able to sing for me,” I said. + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + To which I made haste to answer: + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “Is your race so little developed, then,” asked Zenith, “that your ears + are the only avenue to your hearts?” + </p> + <p> + Before I could answer, Mona herself came bounding into the room, and + Zenith continued: + </p> + <p> + “There’s the poor child now. How can you be so unkind to her?” + </p> + <p> + “Who’s unkind to me?” asked Mona in her sign language. + </p> + <p> + “Zenith thinks I am,” I answered. + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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’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> + “You find Avis a pretty good singer?” + </p> + <p> + “Excellent.” + </p> + <p> + “And good company?” + </p> + <p> + “Excellent company. Why?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, nothing; only I thought you were neglecting another friend.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, Mona doesn’t care for me, and Avis does, or, at least, I think she + does.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you mean by this,” inquired the doctor, “that you have transferred to + Avis the personal interest you had in Mona?” + </p> + <p> + “Have you anything to say in disparagement of Avis?” I asked. + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, what is it? I’m dying to know.” + </p> + <p> + “It is this. What are you going to do with Margaret?” + </p> + <p> + “Margaret? Oh, yes, I forgot about Margaret. That is something else I have + got to think over.” + </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’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’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> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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> + “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> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + The doctor became somewhat excited by these words and asked with + eagerness: + </p> + <p> + “What wonderful invention was that?” + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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> + “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> + “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> + “This is undoubtedly a myth, but the rest that I have told you is + well-authenticated history. + </p> + <p> + “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> + “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> + “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> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you call yourselves socialists now?” asked the doctor. + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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> + “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> + “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> + “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> + “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.” + </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> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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> + “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> + “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> + “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> + “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> + “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> + “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> + “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> + “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> + “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> + “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> + “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> + “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> + “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.” + </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> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “That describes the situation admirably,” he answered, “and it is + literally true.” + </p> + <p> + “Why should that be so?” I asked. + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + To which Thorwald replied: + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “You have just stated the trouble,” Thorwald replied. + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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’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. + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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> + “Well, doctor, what do you think of it all?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” I said, “if we ever return. But doesn’t that seem impossible?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “What are they?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, don’t you know? They are the little satellites of Mars, named after + the favorite horses of the war god.” + </p> + <p> + “But seriously now,” I asked, “how are we to get home?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, seriously, I don’t know,” the doctor answered. “Some accident may + happen to send us away from here in a hurry.” + </p> + <p> + “You know this is not the right world for accidents,” I said. + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + In the morning Thorwald met us with a pleasant greeting, as usual, and + then said: + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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> + “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. + </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’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> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said the doctor, “if it is beyond your skill we shall no doubt be + able to read it at sight.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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> + “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> + “Foedric, what advice have you to offer them before they take their leave + of us?” + </p> + <p> + 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: + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “You have spoken well, Foedric,” said Thorwald. “And now, what wise + counsel will you give, Proctor?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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> + “Zenith,” said Thorwald, “will you take your turn, after Proctor’s + inspiring words?” + </p> + <p> + “If we were in truth making our farewells to these friends,” replied + Zenith, “I should feel more sadness than I am conscious of now. + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “But, Thorwald, I fear you will not have time to give your farewell words + before our friends depart.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + Then, turning to us, Thorwald continued: + </p> + <p> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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!” + </p> + <p> + 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. + </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> + “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, + </p> + <p> + “Why, Walter, are you hurt?” + </p> + <p> + During the effort to recover full consciousness I said: + </p> + <p> + “There, Doctor, the accident you expected has certainly come.” + </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> + “You must have had that broken chair; I knew it would let you down some + time. Don’t you know me, Walter?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, yes, it’s you, Margaret, isn’t it? But where’s the doctor?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, how are you hurt?” cried Margaret in alarm. “Tell me, and I will run + for the doctor at once.” + </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’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: + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, I fell in love with a voice.” + </p> + <p> + “With a voice? Whose voice?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “You make me jealous,” 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> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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> + “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. + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “I was only dozing. But what did you do then?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, I sat quiet for a while, and then took up the amusement I usually + follow when I find myself alone.” + </p> + <p> + “What is that? Pray tell.” + </p> + <p> + “Singing, of course.” + </p> + <p> + “Singing?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, yes, didn’t you know I could sing?” + </p> + <p> + “Do you mean to say you were singing all those two or three hours?” + </p> + <p> + “Not all the time, but at intervals. I sang so loud sometimes that I + thought I should wake you.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + At this Margaret laughed heartily, as she answered: + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “Not at all. I can retain the memory, and have the present happiness + besides.” + </p> + <p> + “But you said you never expected to hear such music in your waking hours.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “My dear, I prefer to think of you. Mona was a beautiful girl, but she + could never love me as you do.” + </p> + <p> + “Why so? Wasn’t her heart large enough?” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </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’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. + </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> + “Wait, Walter, someone is coming. I can see all you want to tell me in + your face.” + </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> + “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: + </p> + <p> + “Did not the poor child recover her voice?” + </p> + <p> + “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.” + </p> + <p> + “How fortunate for me,” said Margaret, laughing, “that you came away just + then.” + </p> + <p> + “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?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, my dear, I have had it for years. But my love is certainly + increasing now, when I see yours flowering out so luxuriantly.” + </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, + “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.” + </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: “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.” + </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, “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.” + </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: “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.’” + </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 & 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’s Daybreak: A Romance of an Old World, by James Cowan + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK DAYBREAK *** + +***** This file should be named 7814-h.htm or 7814-h.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + http://www.gutenberg.org/7/8/1/7814/ + + +Text file produced by Anne Soulard, Suzanne Shell, William Craig, +Robert Laporte, Steen Christensen and the Online Distributed +Proofreading Team + +HTML file produced by David Widger + + +Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions +will be renamed. + +Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no +one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation +(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without +permission and without paying copyright royalties. Special rules, +set forth in the General Terms of Use part of this license, apply to +copying and distributing Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works to +protect the PROJECT GUTENBERG-tm concept and trademark. Project +Gutenberg is a registered trademark, and may not be used if you +charge for the eBooks, unless you receive specific permission. If you +do not charge anything for copies of this eBook, complying with the +rules is very easy. You may use this eBook for nearly any purpose +such as creation of derivative works, reports, performances and +research. They may be modified and printed and given away--you may do +practically ANYTHING with public domain eBooks. Redistribution is +subject to the trademark license, especially commercial +redistribution. + + + +*** START: FULL LICENSE *** + +THE FULL PROJECT GUTENBERG LICENSE +PLEASE READ THIS BEFORE YOU DISTRIBUTE OR USE THIS WORK + +To protect the Project Gutenberg-tm mission of promoting the free +distribution of electronic works, by using or distributing this work +(or any other work associated in any way with the phrase “Project +Gutenberg”), you agree to comply with all the terms of the Full Project +Gutenberg-tm License available with this file or online at + www.gutenberg.org/license. + + +Section 1. General Terms of Use and Redistributing Project Gutenberg-tm +electronic works + +1.A. By reading or using any part of this Project Gutenberg-tm +electronic work, you indicate that you have read, understand, agree to +and accept all the terms of this license and intellectual property +(trademark/copyright) agreement. If you do not agree to abide by all +the terms of this agreement, you must cease using and return or destroy +all copies of Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works in your possession. +If you paid a fee for obtaining a copy of or access to a Project +Gutenberg-tm electronic work and you do not agree to be bound by the +terms of this agreement, you may obtain a refund from the person or +entity to whom you paid the fee as set forth in paragraph 1.E.8. + +1.B. “Project Gutenberg” is a registered trademark. It may only be +used on or associated in any way with an electronic work by people who +agree to be bound by the terms of this agreement. There are a few +things that you can do with most Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works +even without complying with the full terms of this agreement. See +paragraph 1.C below. There are a lot of things you can do with Project +Gutenberg-tm electronic works if you follow the terms of this agreement +and help preserve free future access to Project Gutenberg-tm electronic +works. See paragraph 1.E below. + +1.C. The Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation (“the Foundation” + or PGLAF), owns a compilation copyright in the collection of Project +Gutenberg-tm electronic works. Nearly all the individual works in the +collection are in the public domain in the United States. If an +individual work is in the public domain in the United States and you are +located in the United States, we do not claim a right to prevent you from +copying, distributing, performing, displaying or creating derivative +works based on the work as long as all references to Project Gutenberg +are removed. Of course, we hope that you will support the Project +Gutenberg-tm mission of promoting free access to electronic works by +freely sharing Project Gutenberg-tm works in compliance with the terms of +this agreement for keeping the Project Gutenberg-tm name associated with +the work. You can easily comply with the terms of this agreement by +keeping this work in the same format with its attached full Project +Gutenberg-tm License when you share it without charge with others. + +1.D. The copyright laws of the place where you are located also govern +what you can do with this work. Copyright laws in most countries are in +a constant state of change. If you are outside the United States, check +the laws of your country in addition to the terms of this agreement +before downloading, copying, displaying, performing, distributing or +creating derivative works based on this work or any other Project +Gutenberg-tm work. The Foundation makes no representations concerning +the copyright status of any work in any country outside the United +States. + +1.E. Unless you have removed all references to Project Gutenberg: + +1.E.1. The following sentence, with active links to, or other immediate +access to, the full Project Gutenberg-tm License must appear prominently +whenever any copy of a Project Gutenberg-tm work (any work on which the +phrase “Project Gutenberg” appears, or with which the phrase “Project +Gutenberg” is associated) is accessed, displayed, performed, viewed, +copied or distributed: + +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 + +1.E.2. If an individual Project Gutenberg-tm electronic work is derived +from the public domain (does not contain a notice indicating that it is +posted with permission of the copyright holder), the work can be copied +and distributed to anyone in the United States without paying any fees +or charges. If you are redistributing or providing access to a work +with the phrase “Project Gutenberg” associated with or appearing on the +work, you must comply either with the requirements of paragraphs 1.E.1 +through 1.E.7 or obtain permission for the use of the work and the +Project Gutenberg-tm trademark as set forth in paragraphs 1.E.8 or +1.E.9. + +1.E.3. If an individual Project Gutenberg-tm electronic work is posted +with the permission of the copyright holder, your use and distribution +must comply with both paragraphs 1.E.1 through 1.E.7 and any additional +terms imposed by the copyright holder. Additional terms will be linked +to the Project Gutenberg-tm License for all works posted with the +permission of the copyright holder found at the beginning of this work. + +1.E.4. Do not unlink or detach or remove the full Project Gutenberg-tm +License terms from this work, or any files containing a part of this +work or any other work associated with Project Gutenberg-tm. + +1.E.5. Do not copy, display, perform, distribute or redistribute this +electronic work, or any part of this electronic work, without +prominently displaying the sentence set forth in paragraph 1.E.1 with +active links or immediate access to the full terms of the Project +Gutenberg-tm License. + +1.E.6. You may convert to and distribute this work in any binary, +compressed, marked up, nonproprietary or proprietary form, including any +word processing or hypertext form. However, if you provide access to or +distribute copies of a Project Gutenberg-tm work in a format other than +“Plain Vanilla ASCII” or other format used in the official version +posted on the official Project Gutenberg-tm web site (www.gutenberg.org), +you must, at no additional cost, fee or expense to the user, provide a +copy, a means of exporting a copy, or a means of obtaining a copy upon +request, of the work in its original “Plain Vanilla ASCII” or other +form. Any alternate format must include the full Project Gutenberg-tm +License as specified in paragraph 1.E.1. + +1.E.7. Do not charge a fee for access to, viewing, displaying, +performing, copying or distributing any Project Gutenberg-tm works +unless you comply with paragraph 1.E.8 or 1.E.9. + +1.E.8. You may charge a reasonable fee for copies of or providing +access to or distributing Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works provided +that + +- You pay a royalty fee of 20% of the gross profits you derive from + the use of Project Gutenberg-tm works calculated using the method + you already use to calculate your applicable taxes. The fee is + owed to the owner of the Project Gutenberg-tm trademark, but he + has agreed to donate royalties under this paragraph to the + Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation. Royalty payments + must be paid within 60 days following each date on which you + prepare (or are legally required to prepare) your periodic tax + returns. Royalty payments should be clearly marked as such and + sent to the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation at the + address specified in Section 4, “Information about donations to + the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation.” + +- You provide a full refund of any money paid by a user who notifies + you in writing (or by e-mail) within 30 days of receipt that s/he + does not agree to the terms of the full Project Gutenberg-tm + License. You must require such a user to return or + destroy all copies of the works possessed in a physical medium + and discontinue all use of and all access to other copies of + Project Gutenberg-tm works. + +- You provide, in accordance with paragraph 1.F.3, a full refund of any + money paid for a work or a replacement copy, if a defect in the + electronic work is discovered and reported to you within 90 days + of receipt of the work. + +- You comply with all other terms of this agreement for free + distribution of Project Gutenberg-tm works. + +1.E.9. If you wish to charge a fee or distribute a Project Gutenberg-tm +electronic work or group of works on different terms than are set +forth in this agreement, you must obtain permission in writing from +both the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation and Michael +Hart, the owner of the Project Gutenberg-tm trademark. Contact the +Foundation as set forth in Section 3 below. + +1.F. + +1.F.1. Project Gutenberg volunteers and employees expend considerable +effort to identify, do copyright research on, transcribe and proofread +public domain works in creating the Project Gutenberg-tm +collection. Despite these efforts, Project Gutenberg-tm electronic +works, and the medium on which they may be stored, may contain +“Defects,” such as, but not limited to, incomplete, inaccurate or +corrupt data, transcription errors, a copyright or other intellectual +property infringement, a defective or damaged disk or other medium, a +computer virus, or computer codes that damage or cannot be read by +your equipment. + +1.F.2. LIMITED WARRANTY, DISCLAIMER OF DAMAGES - Except for the “Right +of Replacement or Refund” described in paragraph 1.F.3, the Project +Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation, the owner of the Project +Gutenberg-tm trademark, and any other party distributing a Project +Gutenberg-tm electronic work under this agreement, disclaim all +liability to you for damages, costs and expenses, including legal +fees. YOU AGREE THAT YOU HAVE NO REMEDIES FOR NEGLIGENCE, STRICT +LIABILITY, BREACH OF WARRANTY OR BREACH OF CONTRACT EXCEPT THOSE +PROVIDED IN PARAGRAPH 1.F.3. YOU AGREE THAT THE FOUNDATION, THE +TRADEMARK OWNER, AND ANY DISTRIBUTOR UNDER THIS AGREEMENT WILL NOT BE +LIABLE TO YOU FOR ACTUAL, DIRECT, INDIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL, PUNITIVE OR +INCIDENTAL DAMAGES EVEN IF YOU GIVE NOTICE OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH +DAMAGE. + +1.F.3. LIMITED RIGHT OF REPLACEMENT OR REFUND - If you discover a +defect in this electronic work within 90 days of receiving it, you can +receive a refund of the money (if any) you paid for it by sending a +written explanation to the person you received the work from. If you +received the work on a physical medium, you must return the medium with +your written explanation. The person or entity that provided you with +the defective work may elect to provide a replacement copy in lieu of a +refund. If you received the work electronically, the person or entity +providing it to you may choose to give you a second opportunity to +receive the work electronically in lieu of a refund. If the second copy +is also defective, you may demand a refund in writing without further +opportunities to fix the problem. + +1.F.4. Except for the limited right of replacement or refund set forth +in paragraph 1.F.3, this work is provided to you ‘AS-IS’, WITH NO OTHER +WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO +WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR ANY PURPOSE. + +1.F.5. Some states do not allow disclaimers of certain implied +warranties or the exclusion or limitation of certain types of damages. +If any disclaimer or limitation set forth in this agreement violates the +law of the state applicable to this agreement, the agreement shall be +interpreted to make the maximum disclaimer or limitation permitted by +the applicable state law. The invalidity or unenforceability of any +provision of this agreement shall not void the remaining provisions. + +1.F.6. INDEMNITY - You agree to indemnify and hold the Foundation, the +trademark owner, any agent or employee of the Foundation, anyone +providing copies of Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works in accordance +with this agreement, and any volunteers associated with the production, +promotion and distribution of Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works, +harmless from all liability, costs and expenses, including legal fees, +that arise directly or indirectly from any of the following which you do +or cause to occur: (a) distribution of this or any Project Gutenberg-tm +work, (b) alteration, modification, or additions or deletions to any +Project Gutenberg-tm work, and (c) any Defect you cause. + + +Section 2. Information about the Mission of Project Gutenberg-tm + +Project Gutenberg-tm is synonymous with the free distribution of +electronic works in formats readable by the widest variety of computers +including obsolete, old, middle-aged and new computers. It exists +because of the efforts of hundreds of volunteers and donations from +people in all walks of life. + +Volunteers and financial support to provide volunteers with the +assistance they need are critical to reaching Project Gutenberg-tm’s +goals and ensuring that the Project Gutenberg-tm collection will +remain freely available for generations to come. In 2001, the Project +Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation was created to provide a secure +and permanent future for Project Gutenberg-tm and future generations. +To learn more about the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation +and how your efforts and donations can help, see Sections 3 and 4 +and the Foundation information page at www.gutenberg.org + + +Section 3. Information about the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive +Foundation + +The Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation is a non profit +501(c)(3) educational corporation organized under the laws of the +state of Mississippi and granted tax exempt status by the Internal +Revenue Service. The Foundation’s EIN or federal tax identification +number is 64-6221541. Contributions to the Project Gutenberg +Literary Archive Foundation are tax deductible to the full extent +permitted by U.S. federal laws and your state’s laws. + +The Foundation’s principal office is located at 4557 Melan Dr. S. +Fairbanks, AK, 99712., but its volunteers and employees are scattered +throughout numerous locations. Its business office is located at 809 +North 1500 West, Salt Lake City, UT 84116, (801) 596-1887. Email +contact links and up to date contact information can be found at the +Foundation’s web site and official page at www.gutenberg.org/contact + +For additional contact information: + Dr. Gregory B. Newby + Chief Executive and Director + gbnewby@pglaf.org + +Section 4. Information about Donations to the Project Gutenberg +Literary Archive Foundation + +Project Gutenberg-tm depends upon and cannot survive without wide +spread public support and donations to carry out its mission of +increasing the number of public domain and licensed works that can be +freely distributed in machine readable form accessible by the widest +array of equipment including outdated equipment. Many small donations +($1 to $5,000) are particularly important to maintaining tax exempt +status with the IRS. + +The Foundation is committed to complying with the laws regulating +charities and charitable donations in all 50 states of the United +States. Compliance requirements are not uniform and it takes a +considerable effort, much paperwork and many fees to meet and keep up +with these requirements. We do not solicit donations in locations +where we have not received written confirmation of compliance. To +SEND DONATIONS or determine the status of compliance for any +particular state visit www.gutenberg.org/donate + +While we cannot and do not solicit contributions from states where we +have not met the solicitation requirements, we know of no prohibition +against accepting unsolicited donations from donors in such states who +approach us with offers to donate. + +International donations are gratefully accepted, but we cannot make +any statements concerning tax treatment of donations received from +outside the United States. U.S. laws alone swamp our small staff. + +Please check the Project Gutenberg Web pages for current donation +methods and addresses. Donations are accepted in a number of other +ways including checks, online payments and credit card donations. +To donate, please visit: www.gutenberg.org/donate + + +Section 5. General Information About Project Gutenberg-tm electronic +works. + +Professor Michael S. Hart was the originator of the Project Gutenberg-tm +concept of a library of electronic works that could be freely shared +with anyone. For forty years, he produced and distributed Project +Gutenberg-tm eBooks with only a loose network of volunteer support. + +Project Gutenberg-tm eBooks are often created from several printed +editions, all of which are confirmed as Public Domain in the U.S. +unless a copyright notice is included. Thus, we do not necessarily +keep eBooks in compliance with any particular paper edition. + +Most people start at our Web site which has the main PG search facility: + + www.gutenberg.org + +This Web site includes information about Project Gutenberg-tm, +including how to make donations to the Project Gutenberg Literary +Archive Foundation, how to help produce our new eBooks, and how to +subscribe to our email newsletter to hear about new eBooks. + + + +</pre> + + </body> +</html> |