The reward for perfect observance was Beatitude, or absorption into the being of Brahm, which was not existence as much as absolute rest." The Hindoo gave himself a moment's thought; proceeding, he said: "The part of a Brahman's life called the first order is his student life.

When I was ready to enter the second order--that is to say, when I was ready to marry and become a householder--I questioned everything, even Brahm; I was a heretic.

From the depths of the well I had discovered a light above, and yearned to go up and see what all it shone upon.

At last--ah, with what years of toil!--I stood in the perfect day, and beheld the principle of life, the element of religion, the link between the soul and God--Love!" The shrunken face of the good man kindled visibly, and he clasped his hands with force.

A silence ensued, during which the others looked at him, the Greek through tears.