INTRODUCTORY

 

Communications from the spirit world come in numerous ways. The most voluminous records are probably those made by automatic writing, where the medium, sometimes entranced, but more often not, writes ideas and statements that are seemingly more or less foreign to the conscious thought. This method undoubtedly lends itself readily to the operation of the medium's subconscious mind; and, unquestionably, much that there purports to be from spirit sources originates in, or at least is greatly modified by, this little known portion of the mentality. But there are often evidences in the manner or the content of the writing that, to a truly unprejudiced mind, indicate a source entirely outside the medium. The editor believes that the material included in this book belongs in this class, although it is hardly possible here to enter into much detailed explanation regarding the proof of it. It is hoped that the reader is familiar with a previous volume called "SPIRIT WORLD AND SPIRIT LIFE" where some of the proof is set forth and he is also referred to the article on the subconscious mind in the appendix of this book. To aid those who have not had the opportunity to read the first volume, some facts should be presented here that will make clear the origin of both books.

 

For many years three of us were in very close friendship and companionship. We were together much of the time, and traveled extensively over a good portion of the globe. The constant association led to the adoption among ourselves of the intimate appellations of "Dee," "Sis," and "F. R." Late in 1917 our joys were rudely interrupted by the death of my wife, "Dee." "Sis" had always looked forward to, or at least hoped for, a future life. I had seldom given the subject a thought. But in less than a year, through "table-tipping" at the home of some friends, and later through the ouija board by ourselves, we were drawn into communication with unseen forces that soon proved themselves to be "Dee" and the friends she had already made in the spirit world. Communications came rapidly. Information was given freely. And we were soon made acquainted with the life and conditions in that farther existence. The leader of the communicating circle on that side gave us her name as "Mary." And "Mary" and "Dee" have now for over eight years been in almost daily touch with us. Sis soon developed automatic writing under their guidance; and, after repeated trials extending over more than six years, my hand received the gift also, but in a rather unusual manner. For despite the hundreds of trials, I cannot receive an impression unless Sis's hand is placed on mine. The writing is usually a little freer if she places it on the hand that holds the pencil; but much of my writing has come when her hand is placed on my left hand, which is quiet.