ion science of curative mesmerism gave way to spirit-rappings and
clairvoyant medical treatment. Now spiritism in all its forms is passing
into decay, only to leave the field free to mind-doctors and
faith-healers. There is nothing for it but to wait for the middle ages
to pass; when modern times arrive, there will be more criticism and less
credulity, let us hope.

The propositions put into the mouth of Miss Bowyer, though they sound
like burlesque, are taken almost verbatim from the writings of those who
claim to be expounders of Christian science. While Miss Bowyer was drawn
more closely from an original than is usual in fictitious writing, I am
well aware that there are professors of Christian science much superior
to her. There are, indeed, souls who are the victims of their own
generous enthusiasm; and it grieves me that, in treating the subject
with fidelity and artistic truthfulness, I must give pain to many of the
best--to some whose friendship I hold dear.

For the idea of a novel on the present theme I am indebted to an
unpublished short story entitled An Irregular Practitioner, by Miss Anne
Steger Winston, which came under my eye three or four years ago. I
secured the transfer to me of Miss Winston's rights in the subject, and,
though I have not followed the lines of her story, it gives me pleasure
to acknowledge my obligation to her for the suggestion of a motive
without which this novel would not have had existence.

For the comfort of the reader, let me add that the name Phillida should
be accented on the first syllable, and pronounced with the second vowel
short.

JOSHUA'S ROCK ON LAKE GEORGE, _September, 1891_.

CONTENTS.

CHAPTER PAGE

I. THE ORIGIN OF A MAN OF FASHION 7
II. THE EVOLUTION OF A SOCIETY MAN 19
III. A SPONTANEOUS PEDIGREE 29
IV. THE BANK OF MANHADOES 37
V. THE ARRIVAL OF THE HILBROUGHS 55
VI. PHILLIDA CALLENDER 69
VII. THE LION SOIREE 91
VIII. IN AVENUE C 110
IX. WASHINGTON SQUARE AND ELSEWHERE 120
X. BROKEN RESOLVES 132
XI. IN THE PARK 144
XII. PHILIP