He could only catch a few incoherent words, till Philip exclaimed in a louder voice: "All that is well-reasoned.

But you will be able to write an enduring inscription on the shifting wave sooner than you will shake my conviction that for our spirit, such as Nature has made it, there is nothing infallible or certain." The painter was familiar with this postulate, and was curious to hear the Magian's reply; but he could not follow his argument till he ended by saying, rather more emphatically: "You, even, do not deny the physical connection of things; but I know the power that causes it.

It is the magical sympathy which displays itself more powerfully in the universe, and among human beings, than any other force." "That is just what remains to be proved," was the reply.

But as the other declared in all confidence, "And I can prove it," and was proceeding to do so, Serapion's companion, a stunted, sharp-featured little Syrian, caught sight of Alexander.

The discourse was interrupted, and Alexander, pointing to Melissa, begged his brother to grant them a few minutes' speech with him.