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Benson, Robert Hugh, 1871-1914

"The Necromancers"

It was practically impossible for the boy
to sit here, still nervous from his experience, and hear, unmoved,
this apparently reasonable and connected account of things that were
certainly incomprehensible on any other hypothesis. His remembrance of
the very startling uniqueness of his dream was still vivid.... Surely
it all fitted in ... yet....
"But there is one thing," broke in the medium's quiet voice. "Should
you ever experience this kind of thing again, I should recommend you
not to pray. Just exercise your own individuality; assert yourself;
don't lean on another. You are quite strong enough."
"You mean--"
"I mean exactly what I say. What is called Prayer is really an
imaginative concession to weakness. Take the short cut, rather. Assert
your own--your own individuality."
Laurie changed his attitude. He uncrossed his feet and sat up a
little.
"Oh! pray if you want to," said the medium. "But you must remember,
Mr. Baxter, that you are quite an exceptional person. I assure you
that you have no conception of your own powers. I must say that I hope
you will take the strong line." He paused. "These _seances_, for
instance. Now that you know a little more of the dangers, are you
going to turn back?"
His overhung kindly eyes looked out keenly for an instant at the boy's
restless face.


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