who could attain to such a state? That which is part only, cannot
comprehend the whole. To bid a creature to be wise as God is wise
would be mockery."

Then a fourth old man said:--"It must be Truth that is intended.
For truth only is perfection." But he who sat next the last speaker
answered, "Truth also is partial; for where is he among us who
shall be able to see as God sees?"

And the sixth said, "It must surely be justice; for this is the
whole of righteousness." And the old man who had spoken first,
answered him: "Not so; for justice comprehends vengeance, and
it is written that vengeance is the Lord's alone."

Then the young man stood up with an open book in his hand and said:
--"I have here another record of one who likewise heard these words.
Let us see whether his rendering of them can help us to the knowledge
we seek." And he found a place in the book and read aloud:--

"Be ye merciful, even as your Father is merciful."

And all of them closed their books and fixed their eyes upon me.

--London, April 9, 1877





IV. The City of Blood