explain the birth of that being it is absolutely necessary that I
disperse the clouds which envelop the most obscure of Christian
doctrines. It is not easy to make myself clear when speaking of that
incomprehensible revelation,--the last effulgence of faith that has
shone upon our lump of mud. Do you know Swedenborg?"

"By name only,--of him, of his books, and his religion I know
nothing."

"Then I must relate to you the whole chronicle of Swedenborg."



CHAPTER III

SERAPHITA-SERAPHITUS

After a pause, during which the pastor seemed to be gathering his
recollections, he continued in the following words:--

"Emanuel Swedenborg was born at Upsala in Sweden, in the month of
January, 1688, according to various authors,--in 1689, according to
his epitaph. His father was Bishop of Skara. Swedenborg lived
eighty-five years; his death occurred in London, March 29, 1772. I use
that term to convey the idea of a simple change of state. According to
his disciples, Swedenborg was seen at Jarvis and in Paris after that
date. Allow me, my dear Monsieur Wilfrid," said Monsieur Becker, making
a gesture to prevent all interruption, "I relate these facts without
either affirming or denying them. Listen; afterwards you can think and
say what you like. I will inform you when I judge, criticise, and