It exists in _Pauline_, but all its elements are in solution; uncombined, but waiting the electric flash which will mix them, in due proportions, into a composite substance, having a lucid form, and capable of being used.

That flash was sent through the confused elements of _Pauline_, and the result was _Paracelsus_.
I will state the theory first, and then, lightly passing through _Pauline_ and _Paracelsus_, re-tell it.

It is fitting to apologise for the repetition which this method of treatment will naturally cause; but, considering that the theory underlies every drama and poem that he wrote during sixty years, such repetition does not seem unnecessary.

There are many who do not easily grasp it, or do not grasp it at all, and they may be grateful.

As to those who do understand it, they will be happy in their anger with any explanation of what they know so well.
He asks what is the secret of the world: "of man and man's true purpose, path and fate." He proposes to understand "God-and his works and all God's intercourse with the human soul." We are here, he thinks, to grow enough to be able to take our part in another life or lives.