One fact is stronger than fifty theories; and one reliable success overweighs a thousand failures.

I testify to that which I have seen.
But more, and more wondrous, was to follow.

All at once Mr.Home flung himself back in his chair, looking wild and white; and then rising slowly and solemnly, went to the still bright fire, into which he thrust his unprotected hands, and taking out a double handful of live coals, placed them--as a fire offering--upon Mr.Hall's snow-white head, combing the hair over them with his fingers, all which our host appeared to receive more than patiently--religiously.

Thereafter Mr.Home placed them in the Countess's blonde-lace cap, and carried them, as a favour vouchsafed by the spirits, to each of us, to hold in our hands.

When he came to me, Mr.Hall said: "My friend, have faith." "Yes," I answered, "and courage, too;" whereupon I was blest with a good handful of those wonderful coals, still hot enough to burn any skin; but, somehow or other, I felt no pain and had no mark.