o have a
strong sympathy for the spiritistic teachings that I recognize the
validity and genuineness of much of the phenomena of spiritism--I know
these things to be true, for that matter; it is not a matter of mere
belief on my part. But I also know that much of the so-called spiritistic
phenomena is possible without the aid of "spirits," but by, the employment
of the psychic astral forces and powers as stated in these lessons. I see
no reason for any honest investigator of spiritism to be offended at such
statements, for it does not take away from the wonder of the phenomena;
and does not discredit the motives and power of the mediums. We must
search for truth wherever it is to be found; and we must not seek to dodge
the results of our investigations. There is too much wonderful phenomena
in spiritism to begrudge the explanation that the occultist offers for
certain of its phases.

While I am on the subject of materialization however, I would direct the
attention of the student to my little book entitled "The Astral World," in
which I have explained briefly the phenomena of those planes of the astral
in which dwell the cast-off shells of souls which have moved on to the
higher planes of the great astral world. I have there shown that many
astral shells or shades, or other astral semi-entities may be
materialized, and thus mistaken for the "spirits" of departed friends. I
have also explained in the same little book how there are certain powerful
thought-forms which may be mistaken for spirit materializations. I have
also shown how many a honest medium is really a good clairvoyant, and by
reading the records of the astral light is able to give information which
seems to come from the departed soul. All of these things should be
familiar to the earnest investigator of spiritism, in order that he may be
able to classify the phenomena which he witnesses, and to avoid error and
disappointment.

In this connection, before passing on to the consideration of other phases
of psychic phenomena, I would say that one of the best mediums known to
the modern Western world--a medium who has been consulted by eminent men,
university professors, psychologists, and others--and whose revelations
regarding past, present and future astounded careful and intelligent men
of international reputation--this medium at the height of her professional
success made a public announcement that she felt compelled, from
conscientious motives, to assert