The iron grate, which I mentioned, is not a mystical sign; it is only a formula, a simple, sober, honest, mathematical formula.

To you, as a sensible man, I will willingly explain this formula.

The grate is the scheme in which are placed all the laws guiding the universe, which do away with chaos, substituting in its place strict, iron, inviolable order, forgotten by mankind.

As a brightminded man you will easily understand--" "Pardon me.

I did not understand you, and if you will permit me I--But why do you make them swear ?" "My friend, the soul of man, believing itself free and constantly suffering from this spurious freedom, is demanding fetters for itself--to some these fetters are an oath, to others a vow, to still others simply a word of honour.