He examines the whole cycle of abnormal psychic, spiritual facts,
trances, ecstasy, clairvoyance, witchcraft, spiritualism, etc., etc.,
as shown in the Romish miracles and the history of Europe.
I have long since come to the conclusion that the marvels of
spiritualism are natural, and not supernatural, phenomena,--an
uncommon working of natural laws. I believe that the door between
those _in_ the body and those _out_ has never in any age
been entirely closed, and that occasional perceptions within the veil
are a part of the course of nature, and therefore not miraculous. Of
course such a phase of human experience is very substantial ground for
every kind of imposture and superstition, and I have no faith whatever
in mediums who practice for money. In their case I think the law of
Moses, that forbade consulting those who dealt with "familiar
spirits," a very wise one.
Do write some more, dear doctor. You are too well off in your palace
down there on the new land. Your Centennial Ballad was a charming
little peep; now give us a full-fledged story. Mr. Stowe sends his
best regards, and wishes you would read "Goerres." [Footnote: Die
Christliche Mystik, by Johann Joseph Gorres, Regensburg, 1836-42.] It
is in French also, and he thinks the French translation better than
the German.
Yours ever truly,
H. B. STOWE.
Writing in the autumn of 1876 to her son Charles, who was at that time
abroad, studying at Bonn, Mrs.
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