When the object of a state of mind, as, for instance, calmness all day
long, is obtained, even partially, the operator (who must, of course,
do all to _help himself_ to keep calm, should he remember his wish)
will begin to believe in himself sincerely, or in the power of his
will to compel a certain state of mind. This won, all may be won, by
continued reflection and perseverance. It is the great step gained,
the alphabet learned, by which the mind may pass to boundless power.

It may be here interesting to consider some of the states of mind into
which a person may be brought by hypnotism. When subject to the will
of an operator the patient may believe anything--that he is a mouse or
a girl, drunk or inspired. The same may result from self-hypnotism by
artificial methods which appeal powerfully to the imagination.
According to Dr. JAMES R. COCKE many of his patients could induce this
by looking at any bright object, a bed of coals, or at smooth running
water. It is, of course, to be understood that it is not merely by
_looking_ that hypnotism is induced. There must be will or determinate
thought; but when once brought about it is easily repeated.

"They have the ability," writes Dr. COCKE, "to resist this state or
bring it on at will. Many of them describe beautiful scenes from
Nature, or some mighty cathedral with its lofty dome, or the
faces of imaginary beings." This writer's own first experience of
self-hypnotism was very remarkable. He had been told by a hypnotizer
to keep the number twenty-six in his mind. He did so, and after
hearing a ringing in his ears and then a strange roaring he felt that
spirits were all round him--music sounding and a sensation as of
expanding.