I started, and woke again. The Professor's notes were still under my
eyes, and I read the words, "Lose yourself and live as if you were one
of the others. Exalted on this pinnacle you are prepared for any
existence; you have learnt your path through eternity, and the world and
its vicissitudes may sweep by you like winds past a statue."

As I slowly thought over all the dream, and comprehended its remarkable
character, I conceived it as a revelation.

"The highest things,--I have found them at last!" I exultantly cried, in
a final enthusiasm--"the total subjection of self and obedience of the
whole life to Reason! What shall I care more for events and opinions, or
any matter that but concerns myself and a fleeting world! I will seek in
my actions ever the greater, finer, nobler thing for all, and the rule
will be aim sufficient!"

"I saw that DUTY is the Secret of the World."

It was only a question to choose my largest, finest, noblest field of
work for all. Difficulties disappeared, and the great aim soon appeared
before me of the cultivation of the national spirit.

The nation must found and shape its own work on the same deep idea.




CHAPTER XLIV.