Spiritual Communion between
the Two Worlds of Matter and Spirit." The judge was as communicative as
I could desire, and with the aid of two large manuscript volumes (which
were subsequently given to the public), he introduced me at once into
the profoundest arcana of the science. I read his books through with the
deepest interest, and though not by any means convinced, I was startled
and bewildered. The most powerful instincts of my nature were aroused,
and I frankly acknowledged to my instructor, that an irresistible
curiosity had seized me to witness some of those strange phenomena with
which his volumes superabounded. Finally, I extorted a promise from him,
that on our arrival at Greytown, if a favorable opportunity presented,
he would endeavor to form the mystical circle, and afford me the
privilege I so much coveted--_to see for myself_. The anticipated
experiments formed the staple of our conversation for the six weary days
and nights that our trip occupied. Finally, on the morning of the
seventh day, the low and wooded coast of Nicaragua gently rose in the
western horizon, and before twelve o'clock we were safely riding at
anchor within the mouth of the San Juan River. But here a new vexation
was in store for us. The river boats commenced firing up, and before
dark we were transferred from our ocean steamer to the lighter crafts,
and were soon afterwards leisurely puffing our way up the river.

The next day we arrived at the upper rapids, where the little village of
Castillo is situated, and where we had the pleasure of being detained
five or six days, awaiting the arrival of the California passengers.
This delay was exactly what I most desired, as it presented the
opportunity long waited for with the utmost impatience. But the weather
soon became most unfavorable, and the rain commenced falling in
torrents. The Judge declared that it was useless to attempt anything so
long as it continued to rain. But on the third evening he consented to
make the experiment, provided the materials of a circle could be found.
We were not long in suspense, for two young ladies from Indiana, a young
doctor from the old North State (now a practicing physician in Stockton,
California), and several others, whose names I have long since
forgotten, volunteered to take part in the mysterious proceedings.

But the next difficulty was to find a place to meet in. The doctor and I
started off on a tour through the village to prepare a suitab