ADYAR DAY-FEBRUARY 17 TTTTTTT' TTTTTTT

MADAME H. P. BLAVATSKY Portrait Painted by Gutzon Borglum

-x i.Ì .L L L L 1 -111. THE AMERICAN

f o r m e r l y THE THEOSOPHICAL MESSENGER

Official Organ of the American Theosophical Society

Vol. X X II February, 1934 No. 2

The Presidential Candidates

By C. JINARAJADASA

HAVE no doubt whatsoever in my own which I try to give, for each lecturer or mind which of the two candidates for writer has his circle of inquirers and stu­ 1 president — Dr. G. S. Arundale or dents whom he can inspire better than Prof. E. Wood — is the more suitable any other lecturer or writer. But it is person to represent the Theosophical So­ not necessarily an author who is best at ciety before the world. Our Society is leadership. Leadership requires the abili­ a great international organization of re­ ty to drive a team, and to select the route pute, and during the twenty-six years of the future. It is on this point of the when Dr. Annie Besant was its president selection of the course of the Society that it has impressed itself on the public I differ fundamentally from Prof. Wood. opinion of every country. I shall speak frankly, for it is to me a Now, the president should surely be a matter of vital importance to the Society person who moves with ease among the Prof. Wood is strongly averse to the presidents of other international organi­ expression within the Society by its mem­ zations similar to ours, at great inter­ bers of their religious tendencies. Dr. national congresses and gatherings. Our Besant did her utmost not only to pour president should be one to command new life into the great Religions, but also attention, even by his mere appearance, to rouse the members to work in their by his distinction. I write this in Paris, faiths. Since Theosophy is the sum­ the center of the European world of mation of them all, she as president insti­ thought. It is impossible for me to think tuted in the Jubilee Convention of 1925 of an effective president of our Society the brief ceremony called the “ Prayer of moving among the twenty-two European the Religions.” Each Convention morn­ National Societies of Europe and unable ing, the official activities of the day began to address the members in French. Dr. with brief prayers from the representatives Arundale has all these qualifications which of a ll the Religions, ending with “ 0 Hidden I have in mind. Life” repeated by all in unison. Of course I know both candidates well: She held greatly to this symbol of union I have a great appreciation of the work within the Theosophical Society of all the which Prof. Wood has done to propagate great Faiths. But since 1932, Prof. Wood Theosophy. His many books give a pres­ has objected to the brief quarter-of-an- entation which is as necessary as that hour’s ceremony being scheduled in the 26 THE AMERICAN THEOSOPHIST

“ official” part of the convention program. I Wood’s attitude, we shall have a repetition of the resisted the reversal of Dr. Besant’s policy so long condition of things when H. P. B. stepped in and as I could, but in 1932 he convinced the Vice saved the Society with her Esoteric School. President, and Dr. Besant’s policy was reversed. I know that many have doubts as to the useful­ I know from the difficulties which I have had at ness to the Society of a man who is a Bishop. Adyar, that Prof. Wood objects to the religious life But which is he first — a Theosophist or a Bishop? at our Headquarters, represented by the small Since he was five years old, when H. P. B. called temples and shrines erected at Adyar — some con­ him “ George Chela, Esq.,” and sent him a secrated by Dr. Besant, and one by Mr. Krishna- box of chocolates, Dr. Arundale has been a Theoso­ murti in 1925. phist first and last. He has been General Secretary Furthermore, it was in the Convention of 1930 of three Sections — England, India and Australia. at Benares that Prof. Wood speaking to the whole I know what misunderstandings might arise in the Society at a convention lecture asserted that the public mind; I am glad therefore, to quote the Esoteric School should be disbanded, as it thwarted following letter from him which should remove the proper development of the Society. what is a natural objection on the part of many. This objection to the influence within the Adyar, December 5,1933. Society of those who believe in and work for the “ You enquire from me this morning if a Masters is on a line with Colonel Olcott’s action certain report of an interview on behalf of a in 1885-88 when he eliminated from the Society Ceylon newspaper represented my views. and from The Theosophist references to the Masters. I have not seen the report. It was in 1877 that both H. P. B. and he publicly “ I endeavored to make clear in the inter­ proclaimed the Masters as members of the Society. view that my membership of the L. C. C. was Colonel Olcott’s action in 1885-88 produced the entirely subordinate to my membership of the following remarks from the Master K. H., as re­ T. S., that I had joined the Society in 1895 and ported by H. P. B.: “The Society has liberated the Church only in 1925 and that I had always itself from our grasp and influence and we have let and would have supreme allegiance to the it go — we make no unwilling slaves. He says he Society and to the teachings of Theosophy. has saved it? He saved its body, but he allowed “ I may add for your own information that, through fear its soul to escape; it is now a soulless with the entire concurrence of the Presiding corpse, a machine run so far well enough, but Bishop of the L. C. C., I should regard it a which will fall to pieces when he is gone.” duty, if elected president of the Society, to It was then that, in order to save the Society, abandon the use of clerical dress in ordinary H. P. B. practically levelled the pistol at the life, to ask that I be addressed as Dr. Arun­ Colonel’s head by threatening to make the Europ­ dale, and in all ways to avoid any danger of ean lodges into an autonomous Section not directed identification of the Society with the L. C. C. by Adyar, unless the Colonel gave way. He I have not made these decisions public because yielded, and consented to her forming her Esoteric they might be regarded as a bid for votes — a School, “ the heart of the Society,” as she called it. most reprehensible proceeding. But I shall With the policy which is inevitable from Prof. adopt them if I happen to be elected. Adyar Day

B y A . P . W a r r i n g t o n

DYAR DAY, February 17, is truly a me­ library building; (2) the dispensary, a furlong morial day of our presidents; first, of Colonel away; and (3) the one-time Star Building, nearly A Olcott, and now of Dr. Besant, for both half a mile away. But we have very recently loved Adyar and worked hard for it. In the case of ordered certain improvements to be made in the the Colonel, his heart was wrapped up in the main library building, which will enable us soon to library and the Panchama Schools; and she, on house all the books under one roof. her part, added greatly to the area of the estate, As to the general upkeep of the compound, I to provide facilities and proper environment for have recently appointed as garden superintendent, members who might come here to pursue a course a practical, successful business man — an Indian, of study. When she passed away, there was hang­ who is both a Theosophist and a Mason. My main ing in her room a little motto which she had had hope is that through this department we may be made, reading, “Work for Adyar.” It was her able eventually to make this compound self-sus­ custom, since the establishment of Adyar Day, to taining. I believe it can be done, and I believe divide the donations between the library, the that now we are headed in the right direction and Olcott Schools and the general upkeep of the have the proper management. compound. An Initiate once wrote of Adyar: “ It is essential As to the library, the books belonging to it are now housed in three separate places: (1) The main {Concluded on Pago SB) 27

C. W. Leadbeater B y A. P. WARRINGTON

N The Canadian Theosophist published within one who (even had they ever seen him) was never the Society, there recently appeared appre­ so placed that they could personally judge of the I ciative articles devoted to the memory of truth or falsity of that which they now claim. Dr. Annie Besant.- Many beautiful and even I am sure that our late President, who fought tender things were said, which do the authors many a battle in the name of justice, would rise fine credit. and defend her brother in words of powerful It is regrettable, however, that they should eloquence and finality, were she but here. There have destroyed the value of their expressions by are very many throughout the length and breadth taking occasion to throw stones and mud upon of the world who, as she did, look upon him, now one whom the late President loved as a brother; in his ripe old age, with reverence and devotion, for whose powers and abilities she entertained the not only for the epoch-making pioneer work he highest regard, and with whom she for years has done in original research into the conditions worked in the closest harmony. It was indeed a of the higher planes, but also for bringing hope poor tribute to her intelligence, as well as her and happiness into the lives of thousands, both character, to have assumed that she could have through his personal touch and his public work. been deceived as to his real nature, for in the Among these, I find myself. Him have I known long years of her close association with him she for a third of a century; for periods I have had the had every opportunity to know him as he was. privilege of a more or less close personal relation­ I can well remember hearing her say, more than ship with him and very many of his pupils, at once, that Bishop Leadbeater was the purest one time seeing him almost daily in the per­ person she had ever known. And she who said formance of his ceaseless tasks, and nothing have this had spent the best energies of her marvelous I ever found that would justify any thought of life in the endeavor to discover and to live Truth. him save that which was of the highest and How strange, then, that those who had had no noblest. such opportunities could sit in judgment upon Reprinted from The Theosophist, January, 1934.

Kind-hearted H. P. B.

UCH has been written showing that H. P. B. is in Adyar a letter which she wrote to George was masculine, rough and unfeeling. Cer­ Arundale on his fourth or fifth birthday. She M tainly she smoked — but so did all Russian was very fond of him as a child, and so when his ladies then; she was witty and used her wit as a birthday came she selected a special piece of note barb when necessary. No one certainly would paper with a picture on it a child would under­ ever say she was sentimental. But I want to stand, and wrote as follows: suggest to you that all that was a m a sk. I should To Georges Chela Esq: like to quote two incidents to show that she was Happy New Year to the most Honor­ utterly tender at heart. able Georgy Esq. The first incident I heard this noon at lunch A box of sweets is forthcoming from from the President herself. Once a man came to Russia, a cold and pious country where see H. P. B., and he did not feel at home among the undersigned is supposed to have the company. To put him at his ease, H. P. B. evoluted from. When it arrives — you asked him to sing for her. He did; he sang a shall have it, and when you understand music hall song of doubtful taste. H. P. B. what your loving old friend means — you asked him then to sing it again! Her intimate shall indeed be a Chela. circle, afraid that the general company might Yours respectfully, think that music hall comic songs represented H. P. Blavatsky H. P. B.’s taste in music, seem to have intimated an objection, when she whispered back to one I feel utterly convinced that no one who did of them, “ Don’t you see it is the only thing he not have the heart of a child could have written can do?’’ such an exquisite letter to a child. From The Personality oi H. P. Blavatsky, The other incident is far more significant, for by C. Jinarajadasa. Reprinted from The in it H. P. B. reveals herself in a new way. There Australian Theosophist, January, 1931. 28 THE AMERICAN THEOSOPHIST Published monthly by Entered aa second-class matter Dee. 19, 1932, at the post office at Aurora, Illinois, under the Act of March THE AMERICAN THEOSOPHICAL SOCIETY 8, 1879. Acceptance for mailing at special rate of postage Publication office — 217 Fox St., Aurora, 111. provided for in Section 412, Act of Feb. 28, 1925, Editorial office—Wheaton, HI. authorized Dec. 13, 1927. Second class mail is not forwarded. Therefore changes of address should be sent promptly to The SUBSCRIPTION PRICE...... «1.00 A YEAR American Theosophist, Aurora, Illinois or to Wheaton, FOREIGN SUBSCRIPTIONS ...... «1.25 Illinois.

Editorials

Presidential Election Views— The incident applied to the election of 1928 and not to the present time — a point that we dealt with in Issu e our last issue as being inconsistent with Dr. The policy of this magazine is to present the Besant’s later action. statements of the candidates and to state clearly A few letters oppose the candidacy of anyone the issues. Mr. Wood’s manifesto was given space prominently connected with any religious organiz­ and prominence in our last issue in the expectation ation. Dr. Arundale’s statement in this issue that Dr. Arundale would similarly issue an election covers that point. statement. In its absence, we feel justified in Correspondents present the view that to isolate accepting a statement on his behalf by one or two the E. S. because of the frailty of human nature on who are generally known to our members and the part of some members, is to remove a link whose views they will wish to know. Apart from established by H. P. B., and liken it to the complete this, it is impossible to furnish space for all of those removal of a patient’s heart because of some slight who would like to be heard for one candidate or organic derangement. the other, but we shall briefly summarize in this From a distant part of the country comes a pro­ column any new viewpoints. test against the imposition of authority, and there Elsewhere in this issue we present an article is quoted the instance of the refusal of the Master which we conceive to clearly set forth the real issue K. H. to take part in a controversy between Mr. before the members. We are not alone in our view. Sinnett and Mrs. Anna Kingsford over the presi­ In India and in Europe this time-worn issue of the dency of the London Lodge many years ago. In relation of the Masters to the Society has also been that instance the quotation shows that the Master discerned as the main principle upon which mem­ recommended recourse to the ballot bers must vote, although there it has apparently Another calls attention to the fact that Colonel not yet been so unequivocally stated as we present Olcott, in an official statement just before his it to our members here. But it is a subject so vital death, admonished Dr. Besant that in the event to the future well-being of the Society that we she found it necessary to appoint a successor, as cannot do other than present it squarely for he had appointed or nominated her, to be sure that consideration. any such choice of hers should first be approved by Among the views that have reached our editorial the Masters. An old member, who was present at desk, we find one to which we cannot give credence, the time and to whom Colonel Olcott dictated that stating that Mr. Wood is not seriously considering message, has written to us in verification of it. himself as a candidate, but is taking his present Some hoped for a non-contested election; others course only to bring to an issue the relationship of are glad to see a choice of candidates. the E. S., the Co-Masonic Order and the Liberal Some see in Mr. Wood’s reference to “the un­ Catholic Church to the Theosophical Society, in reliability of the psychic abilities of any person accordance with his quoted promise to Dr. Besant whatever,’’ a reiteration of his unfortunate expres­ to help to maintain a proper balance between the sion in his tribute at the death of Dr. Besant, when Society and these other separated organizations. he announced her as “ the victim of her friends.’’ An explanation of the letters written by Dr. For ourselves, we say that there appears to be no Besant to Dr. Arundale in 1926 is offered by one just or adequate reason, even in the throes of an who claims that it was given by Dr. Besant; election campaign, to cast a shadow by innuendo namely, that the idea of Dr. Arundale’s succeeding on our great President, who so well served the her in the presidency arose in his mind as an im­ Society for so many years, or on the comrade who pression of the Master’s message, rather than in gave her steadfast and loyal support throughout Dr. Besant’s mind — a point that to us seems to be the years. of little consequence, since she confirmed it as the From among all these varying views and opin­ Master’s wish. In our informant’s opinion, the ions our members must make their own decisions THE AMERICAN THEOSOPHIST 29

and form their own conclusions. and unjustifiable antagonisms aroused. Theos­ On one point we would take issue with Mr. ophy is a principle, not a polemic. It comes to Wood, in his use of the old election device of ad­ sweeten and soften, not to embitter. It is the vising members not to vote. It is the duty, the light, not that which the light illuminates.” responsibility, the privilege of every member to exercise his best judgment and to vote accordingly. We repeat, let intuition, not argument, prevail. The Need for Balance The members in America have the courage and It is reported that the German government will the intuition, and America will vote! order the sterilization of many thousands of de­ fectives, and it appears that in England this Note: Mr. Rogers* views on the election will question is again to the fore, although there, per­ appear in our next issue. mission rather than order is the function of the government in the matter. The purpose is clear Our Platform and worthy; the method of accomplishment is much in question, especially by the Catholic A committee appointed in England to consider Church, although we can sympathize with the methods of publicity for the Theosophical Society desire of those responsible for the welfare of a there, offered the following among other sug­ nation or a state to find some way to prevent the gestions in its report: propagation of defective mentalities and incurable “ The Committee strongly recommends that a disease. reminder be sent to lodge and federation sec­ However, an interesting comment along an retaries that lectures to which the public are entirely different line is made by Prof. W. F. Tait, invited should be primarily concerned with ad­ head of the department of psychology of McGill vocating the theosophical teachings.” University in Montreal: So well has the feeling of the Committee been “ If you wish to cure the ills of society by expressed by the Acting General Secretary of the sterilization, you should start with the over- English Section and so completely does that ex­ intelligent. The worst crimes, the most wide­ pression coincide with our own that we reproduce spread blights, are not caused by subnormal or it here as a reminder of our own responsibilities mental defectives but by intelligent people. in selecting speakers for our platform. Grave Child labor, sweatshops, religious, political is that responsibility, for there is power in the and racial persecution, stock manipulation, spoken word and what is given in the name of bank delinquencies, graft at the expense of Theosophy (from our platform) must be super­ the country, intrigues and high grade murder, latively worthy of the splendid and subtly power­ war and its horrors, are not caused by the ful auspices under which it is given. morons but by the intelligent.” “ Although Theosophy does not admit of defini­ But perhaps the problem is not one of too much tion, its teachings nevertheless indicate views intelligence, but rather of too little moral develop­ with regard to the nature, government and destiny ment, and the recognition of this lack of balance is of the universe and of man, which are widely perhaps the best evidence of an awakening public different from those generally held. These have conscience. been so attractive in the past, that there seems no reason to suppose that they have lost their interest in the present. The mere conception of Shakespeare Vindicated man as a spiritual entity with eternal persistence History has attributed the murder of the boy and learning gradually, by repeated visits to princes in the Tower of London to King Henry VII. earth, to understand himself is fraught with such Shakespeare makes the murders an exciting scene immeasurable possibilities that if it were generally in “ King Richard III,” and the discrepancy has accepted it would revolutionize the thought of caused considerable comment among historians and mankind. This, with its implications and corol­ much question of Shakespeare’s knowledge. But laries, may be said to be the primary message of now history is proven wrong. Shakespeare knew Theosophy. It is the justification for theosophical the truth. The bones of the murdered princes were propaganda. found in the Tower in 1674 and the relics were “ The Committee felt that this message should deposited in an urn in Westminster Abbey. A be delivered in as undiluted a form as possible short time ago the dean of Westminster, the presi­ and not confused with matters which, however dent of the Royal College of Physicians and important, are not Theosophy but only problems Surgeons in Great Britain and other high officials which Theosophy can re-interpret. Politics, so­ investigated the matter. An examination of the ciology and economics, for instance, offer legiti­ bones scientifically fixed the ages of the two boys, mate fields for theosophic endeavor, but they are proving that they could not have been killed by not themselves Theosophy, and if persons who order of King Henry VII and that the crime was attend lectures without previous knowledge of one of Richard’s, as Shakespeare said. the subject are allowed to carry away the im­ Theosophists, who have much more reason than pression that some particular antidote is part of has the world at large to know Shakespeare as the specific teaching of Theosophy, wrong ideas Bacon, will not be surprised to find that Bacon of what Theosophy means may be spread abroad knew. 30

The Masters and the Theosophical Society B y FRITZ KUNZ

Editor's Note — M r. Kunz develops a most valuable thesis on a subject of vital importance. A s he says, the influence of the Masters has always permeated the Society, although that influence has naturally been limited by the capacity of perception and has been colored by the qualities of its leaders. But there is the additional most important point that unthin the limits of available personalities They select the leader who can most strongly sound the note already determined by Them as necessary to world change and progress; as witness, Their considera­ tion of both Madame Blavaisky and Dr. Besant in 1875, and Their choice of H . P . B . as most capable of the startling and striking action then needed to arrest a terrible materialism; Their instruction to her to seek Col. Olcott as a co-w ork er, and Their decision at that time to utilize Annie Besant sixteen years later, a choice They presently expressed and the membership in due time confirmed.

EMBERS of the Theosophical Society are animal by the fact of self-awarene3s (accompanied commonly recruited from the world at large by tool-using), and animal is other than plant by M by the sheer reasonableness of the philo­ nobility (associated with thought and seeking), sophy. Frequently these members are ill-informed and plant is marked off from crystal by capacity as to the circumstances attending the founding for digestion and adaption in general (accom­ of the Society they have joined. They may be panied by feeling), — so there is a definite otherness acquainted with some portions of O ld D ia r y which is the true break between man and Adept. L ea ves, or they may have read The Occult World. I have examined this important distinction upon Upon experience of some thirty-odd years of purely reasonable grounds in a long series of lec­ membership and work for the Society, I find tures in New York recently.1 I cannot repeat that very few of these members have really and the extensive arguments here, but would like to squarely faced everything implied in those books point out that the constant attempt to describe and the kindred literature connected with the the Masters in terms of a purer and nobler hu­ launching of the modern Theosophical Society. manity o n ly is bound to be misleading upon the Such ignorance is as embarrassing, eventually, one matter which is of critical importance. I to them as it is awkward to those deeply con­ am prepared to admit that mere intellection as cerned with the forwarding of the Work. It is regards the difference at issue is also sure to bound to find them out, and meanwhile it hampers mislead, but at least concentration upon this others. matter warns the student to be expectant, where­ Either the Masters exist, or They do not. as constant attention to moral grandeur alone Either They founded the Society by the methods may leave him in complete ignorance of the described in the books above cited, or They did true situation. The real point is that Masters not. If the negative is held to be the truth, then are not better men, as Masters; They must be what are people who decide in that way doing considered primarily in Their state as Demigods. in the Society? How can they associate them­ A great deal of trouble has arisen out of this selves with something so fraudulent? And how business, from both friends and enemies of the can any valid philosophy spring from a source so Society. tainted? Members should decide their minds on Without examining this unique property further, this matter, or retire from the scene. I must declare somewhat dogmatically, but in If the affirmative is held, then the consequences accord with all the best traditions, that certain Bhould be equally candidly faced. The first of characteristics accompany the prime difference. these consequences in importance and order, it These secondary characteristics can be enumer­ appears to me, is the relation that the Masters ated, even though the prime factor is elusive. n ow bear to the Society. Has this altered since Among the secondaries is the fact that the Masters the eighteen-eighties? If so, in what particulars? are free men, by which is meant They have no If not, then what is that connection and in what more personal karma. They obey, like every ways can we draw upon it? manifested creature, the laws of the cosmos, but I propose to deal with this issue here. But it They have brought to an end "the ceaseless will be essential first of all to make a point of round,” and with that cessation They have immense importance, however briefly. This point ended also the personal claims which may be made is: What exactly is the character of a Master upon Them. which distinguishes Him from mankind in gen­ 1 The Men Beyond Mankind, which will shortly appear in eral? By this I mean, that as man differs from booh form. THE AMERICAN THEOSOPHIST 31

Ignorance of this , simple fact has given rise to colleague, was that of arresting the attention of every manner of misapprehension as to Their the world by displaying laws denied equally by relationship to the Society. We are today strug­ orthodox materialism and dogmatic religion, al­ gling with problems which stem from this very though these opponents pretended to be commit­ root-difficulty. Some have assumed that the ted, the one to the investigation of new laws, the Masters have altered of late Their relationship other to the championing of miracles. Few mem­ to the Society. But the truth of the matter is bers of the Society seem to have noticed the real that those who make that assumption make it consequence of this method. It was that there on a false premise, which has long misled them. was drawn around the two bold Founders a group The premise is that the naive relation of the Mas­ of people personally linked by karma to them and ters to the Society which is set forth in the early by soul responsive to the method selected. For the literature is the true relationship. The Masters natural consequence of physical phenomena was are conceived as having taken up a job in which metaphysical study. When a ring hops out of a They have personal feelings, wanting a direct rose under your very nose, you are a fool if you success. In short, it is tacitly taken that They do not ask what sort of world is behind this want the fruit of action. It should surely strike extraordinary episode. So we had a corps of a reasonable person that if there are Beings who Sinnetts and Humes and the like, and eventually are entirely independent of all personal karma a Secret Doctrine, a wonderful attempt to describe — in the binding sense, They love and Thor think how something comes from the no-thing. —such individuals would be exceedingly foolish Then Madame Blavatsky died (but the Masters to turn back on Their prime achievement of alone- went on) and there had to be a shift to the karma ness (kaivalya) and commit Themselves to attach­ and character of Colonel Olcott. This put the ment. In short, the notion is that the Masters whole outer method up a notch in the planes of founded the Society for Their own pleasure. Nature. For this interesting man had a vast fund It is from this error that our troubles come. The of etheric magnetism for healing and like miracles, fact is that the Masters, who are after all charged but not capacity for his former colleague’s style of with the duty of teaching, are not bound by Their work by physical phenomena. And instantly a own personal karma — for They have none — but new type of person was attracted, deep in his soul, are instead limited by the personal karma of Their to the Society. There is a correspondence at a high volunteer agents. Once this idea is taken in, the level to vitality. It is generalized vitality, com­ notion that the Masters have abandoned the monly called the Will. Hence the rapid growth Society is supplanted by a true concept, namely, of the Theosophical Society, as a movement. that Their relationship alters as leaders alter in Then the Colonel died, and new personages took character. In short, the tangible methods of a the stage, and with them a new method, since the Blavatsky give way to the psychic methods of a Masters must accept the limitation of the personal Besant, not because the Masters have suddenly karma of the worker at hand. The whole style changed or left, but because the mask has been changed. By psychic inquiry the center of atten­ changed for a new one. tion was shifted to the psychic worlds. Astral We must ask ourselves, in short, this: “ How are bodies were described, and psychic forms pictured. the Masters to retain Their personal freedom, won As a result a new kind of person came into the at such cost by yoga, and yet help people person­ Theosophical Society. Metaphysics fell into the ally? How are They to change people’s lives background, just as a matter of course. Virtue personally without interfering in personal karma, came forward. For when people hear what a sight and hence binding Themselves anew to personal an astral body is they want to do something about karma, which They have by much effort equili­ it. Hence the recent era when people joined brated?” The answer is that They can act only practically every movement launched, with the through volunteers, and, note w ell, They must most virtuous intent. It cannot be said of this assent to be bound by the limitation of such volun­ era that it was supremely marked by mental teers. When Jesus weeps over an obdurate city, comprehension, because the upper correspondent He weeps not because He has no power to act of the astral world is the intuitive, and people directly, but because there are so few to volunteer flocked into the Society on that basis. It had the to represent Him. He does not weep from personal taint of authoritarianism naturally, as well. The chagrin, in short! leaders of this era in our work were, as much as In Their own letters the Masters make clear Madame Blavatsky, dependent upon the wisdom that They had to do the best They could with of the Masters, but she had the advantage of Madame Blavatsky, whom some would like to phenomena which created in people the illu sio n deify now that she is dead. They had to take such that they knew. Psychic investigation has no such methods as she was fitted for. These happened to advantage and there has often been, in conse­ be what they were, but we must not confuse quence, a strong and unreasonable revulsion Madame Blavatsky’s phenomenalism with the against authority. essential character of Those who employed her. This period, now closing, had at least the If all this be agreed, an interesting conclusion advantage of quick action and solidarity and can be drawn. I shall proceed now to draw it. energy. The Society was manned principally by The method determined upon, out of the charac­ people who tried to lead a good life, becoming ter of H. P. Blavatsky, and that of her principal vegetarians, and what not, out of intuitive grasp 32 THE AMERICAN THEOSOPHIST of certain ideas and intuitive trust of certain brought upon the carpet! Could iconodasm go people. But it must be candidly admitted that further? The issue is simply to sort out those who it was a time when folks believed rather than knew. mean to know for themselves. No doubt the And rebels were not exactly popular, even though mortality has been high. A considerable quantity they were polite and friendly in their scepticism! of members have lost interest or left owing to mere Indeed, many people one liked heartily one saw discouragement. Another large group has shouted sadly grow bitter. The fault was theirs. For hurrah over the discovery that they have been after all the corrective was to kn ow , and no one depending on psychic authority and promptly can prevent anyone from knowing, except himself. proceeded to lean on a new authority. But I see It was a habit to place personal weaknesses and signs everywhere of the righting of the boat again. failure upon leaders, as if they stifled growth. That The principal feature of the recent storms has was all very sad, and bound up with many matters been the almost total loss of a sense of humor. We of purely personal disappointment, self-betrayal should first recover that. Next, we should face and the like. The Society, whatever the era, has the fact of a new era. C. Jinarajadasa’s interesting no room for vaulting ambition. little venture into Theosophy and M odem Thought, With the passing of this intuitive-psychic era a in his book of that name, and his general thesis in new one is bound to arise, determined by the his First Principles have long seemed to me signs character of the leaders and their personal links of the dawn of another day. I must say that I of karma. What is interesting is that it can be look with as much eagerness to the next period as forecast. Note that the first period was phenome­ I feel a pensive mood of backward-looking toward nal, and the metaphysical was evoked. Thus the the former. I suppose people who knew Madame lowest world was linked with the highest in human Blavatsky (who died when I was three, and had reach. Then, toward its end, the etheric was thus no opportunity to meet me) felt a deep sad­ linked with the highest vital, the so-called robe of ness over her withdrawal, and despised the rising glory. There followed a period of linking the powers of the day as unworthy. What we should astral to the intuitive. From this it follows, keep well in front of us is the fact that the methods reasonably enough, that we are in for a time of of the Masters are bound to change with the binding together the higher and lower mental. personnel. The new period will be exciting in its That is to say, the scientific materials of our times own way. People, in a way, will know something will be brought before the bar of the eternal An­ for themselves. This will be no substitute for the cient Wisdom, and there reorganized. I expect a making of that angular change which is called the period of scientific research, in which any intelli­ attainment of m o k sh a — for the difference between gent person can take part, unlike psychic research, man and Master is angular and dimensional, not which is limited to a few as yet. I believe that linear or volumetric. The deep function of the psychic inquiry will be as little stressed shortly as Society will continue to make such changes in phenomenalism was recently. But a vast growth of those who survive all outer change. Meanwhile philosophy and science will, instead, take place. the outer changes have much interest in them­ selves. The Masters remain the Masters; and, in For this we have been lately prepared. A great a long view, the Theosophical Society with all its searching has been going on among people who baffling character remains the Theosophical have had their idols assayed for clay. Not only Society. have the Masters been (supposedly) doubted, but the heavenly cow of Reincarnation has been Reprinted from The Theosophist, December, 1933.

Adyar Day [Continued from Page 26) for the individual member and for the Society the extraordinary intangible something of our that Adyar, as a great spiritual center, should be Adyar. There is an atmosphere there that does maintained, worthy and dignified. The importance not exist in many a church and temple, and there of this is so obvious that few can doubt it. Adyar is a Presence there that we expect to perceive in a is, and always has been, a spiritual oasis to which sacred shrine. One can become either a god or a the weary traveler looks for comfort and repose. pitiful sinner at Adyar. It is a wondrous spot and Though it may not be the privilege of each member it must be maintained as though it were a holy in the Society to go there from the world of wilder­ temple. ness, yet the mere existence of such a center gives "Adyar Day exists to remind the members of the hope and encouragement. glorious place and to urge them to their best to “ I have visited many a wonderful land and seen make Adyar a worthy and dignified shrine for the many a famous sight, but there is none to equal Masters." “Who Is for Us?”—The Real Issue

B y e t h a S n o d g r a s s

To the members of the Theosophical Society is no doubt that such will be the result- on this there comes in the presidential election a magnifi­ occasion also, but in bringing that promise to a cent challenge, one to stir their hearts and com­ climax, members of the Theosophical Society have mand their highest wisdom. Although not a new again the immense privilege of rising to the challenge, it is new to our generation and, therefore, heights of a noble and splendid decision. Never in it must come to the membership of this year of the past have we been willing that our Society 1934 with that stirring sense of great achievements should be merely a formal organization for techni­ to be accomplished, as in the past older members cal research or for ethical purposes only, for have faced a similar demand upon their courage always we have known that in the leadership of and insight. Doubtless unconsciously to himself the Masters of the Wisdom lies the privilege and and certainly unexpectedly to the members, wonder of membership in the Theosophical Society. Prof. Ernest Wood has precipitated in his mani­ Always our decision has given the confirmation festo an issue so significant that he has immediately which is necessary, for as one of Them has said, set aside the relatively simple selection of a presi­ “ We impose ourselves upon none.” As the history dent as between personalities, and has forced each of our Society proves, each time that recognition member squarely to face his own convictions as to has been given, the result has invariably been new the relationship of the Elder Brethren to the growth and power and the attainment of new Theosophical Society. heights of service, of which today we find the The crux of the matter is stated by Prof. evidence in an extension of its Sections to nearly Wood when he announces that in his opinion the every country of the world, uniquely standing for office of president is to be regarded as “ a purely the upliftment and enlightenment of humanity. executive position." We have known Prof. Since history so wisely repeats itself for our Wood too long as lecturer and writer and for instruction and guidance, it is inspiring to remem­ splendid services rendered with self-sacrifice and ber that it was our own great Fouriders, Madame devotion to the Theosophical Society not to have H. P. Blavatsky and Colonel Henry Steele Olcott, every reason for believing that for himself he who were the first to make this decision that the recognizes most reverently the existence of the Masters shall ever be the source of the life and Masters, but obviously the exercise of a “purely power of our organization. In the very beginning executive" function would give Them no place or of the founding of the Theosophical Society when recognition in the Society’s direction or activities. problems were perplexing, and particularly when The whole spirit and tone of his manifesto make the Coulomb affair brought discouragement and this abundantly clear. disaffection among the members, Colonel Olcott In contradistinction to this statement by Prof. felt that it was not wise to give to the Masters Wood, note the following paragraph taken from the recognition hitherto accorded Them, since he the article by Dr. George S. Arundale as it ap­ thought that it was impossible so to recognize peared in the January number of T h e A m e r ic a n Them and at the same time carry on effectively T h e o s o p h is t . the development of an exoteric organization. “You and I have to realize that the Theo­ This point of view was held regardless of the fact sophical Society does not belong to us, is not that to H. P. B. and Colonel Olcott the Masters to be maneuvered by us, is not to be brought were tremendous and vital facts of everyday down to the level of our lesser understanding, experience, for as H. P. B. herself said, “ Belief is not to be imprisoned and restrained within in the Masters was never made an article of faith our own individual conception of life. The in the Theosophical Society. But for its founders, Theosophical Society is a powerful instrument the commands received from Them when it was in the hands of the Elder Brethren and They established have ever been sacred." In spite, use it to mighty purposes.” however, of this deep-hearted devotion they Very different indeed is this expression of an faced the question as to whether the Masters were intensity of desire that our Society shall be Theirs. to be recognized as positive factors in the life The office of president can become magnificently of our Society or merely as reasonable hypotheses. potent in Their service only when its occupant The problem was a serious one because obviously recognizes that They also function through it. in Colonel Olcott They had a remarkable ex­ Time after time during the years of our Society’s ecutive, one skilled in administration and, as Dr. progress this issue has recurred and has been faced, Besant has said, it is not easy to adjust to perfect and each time our members have unfailingly balance the power of an esoteric leader and that decided that for them and for always only that of one whose function is exoteric only. leader shall be chosen who gives recognition and As a result, therefore, of the Coulomb affair, place in the Society to the Elder Brethren. There Colonel Olcott allowed the Masters to sink into 34 THE AMERICAN THEOSOPHIST the background. 1 “ This did not mean that he “Since the time when the Adepts have did not believe in Them, for as a matter of fact 'broken the silence of centuries’ and offered he was the pupil of one of Them, and he never openly Their knowledge to the world through swerved in his intense devotion to his Master. the Theosophical Society, the Society’s work But it was his conviction that a kind of subtle has been on two plane3, as it were, each danger to the Society arose from the occult ele­ having its laws, yet both intimately related. ment in its teachings. Hence his desire that as The first plane of work is what is visible to much as possible the Society should be withdrawn all: The Society is supremely a body of from any kind of an occult influence emanating philanthropists toiling to build a Universal from invisible sources.” Brotherhood, and bound by no creed nor But the outcome of this policy in which the pledged to follow any ‘leader,’ for the mem­ Masters^ were no longer recognized proved dis­ bers are seekers of Truth, not the builders of astrous, and although Colonel Olcott himself did a doctrine. Every well-wisher who is ‘willing not note the change, H. P. B. was aware of the to study, to be tolerant, to aim high and to devitalization which was gradually taking place. work perseveringly,’ is ever welcome into the In a conversation between the Master K. H. and Society’s membership. H. P. B., the Master told her quite definitely that “But from the Society’s commencement, a continuation of this policy of exclusion would there has been another aspect of the Society’s mean that with the passing of Colonel Olcott work and development, on another plane. the Society would fall to pieces and no longer No secret was ever made of the fact by H. continue its service in the world. Even Colonel P. B. or Colonel Olcott that the Society was Olcott’s leadership, dynamic though it was, was inspired by the Masters and steadily guided not in itself sufficient to insure that inspiration by Them in its development. If this part which would mean permanence to the organiza­ of the Society’s inner and invisible basis is tion without the acknowledged power of the true, then a most vital problem is: Who is Masters behind it. The first members of our the person through whom the Masters are Society and its great Founders, H. P. B. and working; in other words, who is the ‘leader?’ Colonel Olcott, were also the first to decide that “ The Society’s steady development has in our recognition of the Masters as the real lead­ been by the interaction of these two planes ers of our Society we maintain that link with of ideas. For as is the leader, so is the So­ Them which is essential to its very life. ciety, at least as an organization. It is true If in 1888 it was true, and if again and again in that the Society today is a democratic body; our Society’s history that truth has reverberated even its president is only the executive officer through the decisions made by our members, on behalf of the Society's General Council. Yet then again today comes the responsibility of the all know that the personal worth and the members of the Society to give the needed rec­ ‘driving power’ of the president moulds the ognition — for it appears that from time to time Society’s work and expansion. a redeclaration of allegiance to the Inner Found­ ers is required, and elections and other crises pro­ “ Time and again, the question is being vide opportunity for such declaration. In those asked: ‘Who is for us — answer!' It is asked early days a poignant letter was given to the through a situation, a ‘crisis,’ if you will, in Founders by the Master M., which may well the Society’s affairs. In 1883 the question ring in our hearts today as we give our answer. was asked of the English Society’s members, whether they recognized Mr. A. P. Sinnett “ To all those whom this may concern — as the leader chosen by the Masters, or to the honorable and doubting company. another. Some replied, ‘No’ — and chose “ Foolish are the hearts who doubt of our to follow Dr. Anna Bonus Eingsford. In existence! or of the powers our community 1884 the question was asked of all members is in possession of for ages and ages. . . of the Society, whether they still recognized Would that you would open your hearts to H. P. B. as the ‘channel,’ in spite of all the the reception of the blessed truth, and obtain charges of the Coulombs. Many doubted and the fruits of that Arhatship, if not in this replied, to all practical purposes, ‘No’ — for then in another and better rebirth. they left the Society. It was at that crisis “ Who is for us — answer!” too that grave doubts were cast on the very Mr. Jinarajadasa quotes this heart-stirring let­ existence of the Masters Themselves. In ter in the Watch Tower Notes of the April, 1933 1894-5 the same situation arose, when the Theosophist, and gives there a splendid statement then Vice President of the Society, Mr. W. of the privilege which has come from time to Q. Judge, stood against its President, Colonel time to the members of the Theosophical Society Olcott, and the members who believed in the as they have answered this ringing question, Masters had to decide behind whom was “ Who is for us?” Mr. Jinarajadasa continues: Their influence: Judge or Olcott. In the “ Today also there are those who doubt, U. S. A. ninety per cent of the members and these are not among the 'novices’ but followed Mr. Judge. The Society which he among tried and trusted workers. then founded chose at his death a year after, 1 The Original Programme o f the Theosophical Society Mrs. Katherine Tingley, and that ‘Judge H.P.B.—P.IX. Secession’ is now broken up into the Point THE AMERICAN THEOSOPHIST 35

Loma Theosophical Society; the Theosophical For it is not necessary to believe in the Society of New York, of Mr. E. T. Hargrove Masters in order to help the Society’s ideal­ and others; the United Theosophists, of istic work on the visible plane of its activities. Los Angeles and elsewhere; the movement Yet the challenge, ‘Who is for us?’ is a part, of Blue Star, now the Temple of the People, too, of the Society’s development.” under Dr. W. H. Dower, in Halcyon, Cali­ “ Who is for us— answer!” Today the clarion fornia; and the Blavatsky Association of call rings out for us to select our president and London. One more, a Theosophical Society it is for the members of the Theosophical Society in Germany, under Herr Hugo Vollrath, also to reply. As Colonel Olcott, and then Dr. Besant, belongs to those who chose Mr. Judge. Those were selected by Them and Their selection con­ who chose Colonel Olcott make the great firmed by the members, so today shall the mem­ ‘Parent’ international Society whose Head­ bers of the Theosophical Society choose as a quarters are at Adyar. Then in 1907 came leader one who will not restrict his duties to that once again the question: ‘Who is for us — of an executive only, but who will also permit answer!’ This time the question was tanta­ recognition of the Elder Brethren and of Their mount to: ‘Do you recognize Annie Besant power and blessing and influence in the Society’s as the leader chosen by us?’ Many replied, affairs. So shall our Society continue to be Theirs ‘No,’ and — since they resigned from the Society — replied also that they no longer to carry out Their mighty purposes for the ser­ believed that the Masters guided the Society. vice of the world. Splendid is the opportunity “ All through these events everyone working to face this challenge; splendid to participate for Brotherhood, whether he believed in the when so vital an issue is again presented to us; Masters or not, has not only been welcome, joyous the duty which enables us to select Their but cherished as a worker in the Society. leader for our own.

Most of the great~work is wrought by thought and will and by making ourselves channels for the spiritual forces that pour down upon the world. Comparatively little is done on the physical plane. Annie Besant.

Extracts from Letters Addressed to Correspondents

B y G e o r g e S . A r u n d a l e

1. In September last, when I was first nom­ giance to the Society and to the teachings of inated for the office of president, I resolved that Theosophy. I would as far as possible avoid all controversy. The place that Dr. Arundale gives to the Theoso­ I felt that by so doing I should be best upholding phical Society and its direct work are clearly shown at the present moment the dignity of our Society in a question presented to him and his answer, last and, in particular, be best honoring the mem­ summer at Olcott: (Editor). ory of our beloved President in these days so Question: “ Will you pardon a personal ques­ near to her passing. And I ventured to think tion, because I have heard it discussed by many that members throughout the world know me of the members? If you were nominated for the well enough to be able to decide quite definitely presidency of the Theosophical Society (and if as to my suitability for the office to which I have elected to the office), would you be able to accept been nominated, but which I surely do not seek. despite your present position and heavy respon­ All I can say to you is that, if elected, I shall sibilities in relation to the several theosophical do my best to support Theosophy and the Theo­ centers in different parts of the world, to the sophical Society before the world, and within the Co-Masonic fraternity and to the Liberal Catholic Society to encourage to the best of my power Church?” the free search for Truth and expression of opinion Answer: “ If it so happened that I were elected to the office of president, I should regard its dis­ within those essential limitations which courtesy, charge as my first and most solemn duty, and all goodwill and mutual respect demand. my present work would take second place. The 2. My membership of the Liberal Catholic Society is the veritable mother of all the move­ Church is entirely subordinate to my member­ ments with which I am connected, and my service ship of the Theosophical Society. I joined the of the mother precedes that of the children — Society in 1895 and the Church in 1925. I have ever and always. M y first and supreme allegiance always had, and shall ever have, supreme alle­ is to the Theosophical Society." I

36

Why Dr. Besant Entered Co-Masonry

B y M a r y K . N e f f

Editor’s Note: The following article is of interest principally as regarding a phase of Dr. Besant’s work, shovnng its direct inspiration by the Masters. Co-Masonry, into which that inspiration flowed, had not then and has not now any connection with the Theosophical Society.

R. ANNIE BESANT was a Thirty-third not in her line.” But somewhat later, on the eve Degree Mason, and the Sovereign Lieuten­ of a visit to London, the same Person who had D ant Grand Commander of the Order of visited her locked bedroom appeared and said, Universal Co-Masonry and its Representative for “ Go to see Miss Arundale in London.” Miss the British Federation, a well earned honor, for she Arundale repeated the invitation to join Co- was the chief of the Founders of Co-Masonry in Masonry, and this time Mrs. Besant accepted. A the British Empire and the first Master of the party of seven went to Paris: Miss Arundale and first lodge in England. Knowing it will interest all those who knew her in other work, I repeat the George, accompanied by five candidates — Mrs. history of her coming into Co-Masonry, as she Besant, Mrs. and Miss Bright, Mr. and Mrs. gave it here at Adyar on Christmas Day of 1929. Lauder — who were duly initiated, passed and She began with an incident that may not seem raised. Having made up the required seven, the particularly relevant at first thought. It was in first Co-Masonic lodge in England was consecrated London in the eighteen-nineties, when Mrs. in London, September, 1902, by the Grand Officers of the Supreme Council, under the title of “ Human Cooper-Oakley was collecting data for her T races o f the Hidden Tradition in Freemasonry and Medieval Duty Lodge, No. 6.” Mrs. Besant was the first Master of the lodge. M y s tic is m , that one night just as Mrs. Besant had gone to bed, an unknown Person appeared in her Before taking up the work of building up Co- locked bedroom and said, “ Take a pencil and Masonry in England, Mrs. Besant had made one write.” She had the materials for writing at her stipulation at Paris. In French Co-Masonry there bedside, having been told by Madame Blavatsky is no reference to The Great Architect. She main­ to take down immediately on waking each morning tained that if God were excluded (so to speak) and the impressions received in sleep. This Person women were admitted, these two features together proceeded to give her a list of dates and names left no hope for Co-Masonry in England. The chiefly ending in “ski,” which she thought to be Supreme Council took a liberal view of the situa­ Polish. “ No,” said He, “ Transylvanian.” Next tion and said, “ Do what you think best,” and so morning she gave the list to Mrs. Cooper-Oakley we have this most essential element of Masonry with the remark, “ I hope you can get something in our Ritual. out of them, for I can’t.” “ Oh,” said Mrs. Cooper- Ever since 1902 Dr. Besant worked for the spread Oakley, “ they are just the very missing links that of Masonry and early introduced it into India. Of I have wanted concerning Pere Joseph Zimsky” her work in the higher degrees I am not competent (who, by the way, was a former incarnation of to speak. I remember, however, her telling us how Madame Blavatsky). The bearing which this she came to write the questions and answers in incident has on Mrs. Besant’s Masonic career is the Eighteenth Degree. She said that she and her that it was her first meeting on the physical plane Brother Leadbeater had tried in Sydney, but with­ with the Head of all true Freemasons throughout out success. She took ship for Europe, and when the world, for it was He who appeared and gave the ship entered the jurisdiction of the Master her the list of names. the Prince, she felt impelled to write. She sat Next she met Mile. Deraismes in Paris, who told down, and the questions and answers came flow- her of the recently founded Order of Universal ingly. Later the Master told her that He had given Co-Masonry and invited her to join. She refused, them to her; that it was not a new but a very old being a Socialist then, because princes and other Ritual, with a cipher which we might do well to aristocratic persons were members, and so “ it was try to unravel. 37

Common Sense Talks B y Sid n e y a . Co o k

On Health and Karma past, and we must not be unsympathetic with those who suffer, no matter what may be the cause. But It is so easy to blame someone else, such a wouldn’t it be wise for most of us to exhaust the simple and expedient way of relieving ourselves of quite ordinary explanations before we seek to place consideration of our own responsibilities. And the burden upon some other personality in some just as we think of war and crime as created by other day? Isn’t it more likely that a stomach of someone else, forgetting that in our thinking and unique behavior acquired that uniqueness from in our complacence we contribute some part to mistreatment in the present incarnation rather the creation of these errors in our national and than in the past, and that it will respond to a social life, so do we often think of things that are skillful selection of appropriately balanced food3, if much more individual and personal, and of which administered with a sufficient degree of scientific we similarly consider ourselves unfortunate victims. thoughtfulness to offset the thoughtlessness with If we have digestive equipment that has methods which it was previously supplied? Might not all its own, a liver whose influences run to green Friday night’s rest be as good as that of Monday, and yellow rather than to the rose of perfect if the day before were just as well organized? health; if we have colds in the fall, corns all the Might not our shoes in the immediate present or in time, and cannot sleep on Friday nights, how the earlier days of the present life be just as re­ simple it is to consider ourselves unfortunate sponsible for our corns as the fact that we stood victims of that karma which we so often look upon too long on sentry duty in Rome? If our mining, as something far away beyond our present control. stock is no good, it is much more likely to be true And there is such a mental and moral satisfaction that we bought it without investigating either the in thus throwing the blame way back past the mine or the stock, than that we looted King present personality, which suffers nevertheless, Solomon’s mines or foreclosed a mortgage on the surrounded by the sympathy that we extend to banks of the Nile. it for what that earlier personality has thrust upon it. Yes, it is all so simple and so easy thus to Let us be sensible. We shall find that the great explain it. It makes it so much easier to bear majority of our present ills and difficulties origi­ when we have thus convinced ourselves that we nated through some action or inaction of our own in cannot help it anyway, and in the meantime, we this life, and we shall more surely disperse those become satisfied with our inefficiency and our in­ difficulties in this life and for all time if we seek ability to do the things we would so like to do if the means at hand, thoughtfully, scientifically, we only had the health which karma has denied us. with good judgment, rather than simply resting There are, of course, many thousands of in­ on our oars, believing ourselves victims of the tide stances of physical disability and sometimes of of karma, in which we do not attempt to select ill health attributable only to karma from the our course.

Turn Back, O Man

Turn back, O Man, forswear thy foolish ways, weep. Old now is Earth, and none may count her Would man but wake from out his haunted days, sleep, Yet thou, her child, whose head is crowned Earth might be fair and all men glad and with flame, wise. Still wilt not hear thine inner God proclaim “ Turn back, 0 Man, forswear thy foolish Earth shall be fair, and all her people one, ways!” Nor till that hour shall God’s whole Will be done. Earth might be fair and all men glad and Now, even now, once more from earth to sky wise, Peals forth in joy man’s old undaunted cry Age after age their tragic empires rise, “ Earth shall be fair, and all her folk be one!” Built while they dream and in their dreaming — Clifford Bax. 38

The Greater America Plan

trial, real development must come. I had the World Wide Interest honor and great delight of being the first speaker From Australia comes a letter from Miss Clara at our first class session last week. We are making Codd, who is now the General Secretary of that the class the regular program of the lodge for Section, telling of their interest in the Greater December.” America Plan and of their desire to plan activities Colorado lodge writes: “ The lodge has adop­ for that Section along similar lines. ted the H. P. B. Training Class as the main feature Mr. H. Frei, the Recording Secretary of the of the lodge meeting for a month. This obviates Society, writes from Adyar: “ I am very much extra meetings and those members of the lodge who interested in the scheme adopted at your last do not wish to participate in the class will be convention, the Greater America Plan.” Mr. Frei welcomed as visitors and may take part if they so asks for additional particulars, pointing out that a wish, but will not be urged to do so. This was similar plan might be utilized for the development adopted due to difficulty in getting members to of life and interest in other Sections. participate in a regular study group. However, When Dr. Arundale was here at the convention judging by the last meeting, which was the first, at which the Plan was adopted, he foresaw its those present were more highly entertained and possibilities and realized that the enthusiasm with instructed than at our regular lodge meetings so which the Plan had been engendered could fire the far this year. This is on trial and may be con­ members not only throughout America, but tinued or abandoned at any time, to the best throughout the world, and we are only at its interests of the lodge.” beginning, only the bare preliminaries have yet Mr. X of the Y lodge gave a list of the changes been adopted, but the sowing of seed is always an that have been made in the lodge as a result of essential to a later harvest and we are sowing the work there. “We hope you have as great a good seed. S. A. C. success on your Eastern tour as you have had in this part of the country.” Progress of the Greater America A Middlewestern lodge writes that they have moved to a new and very desirable location, “ are P lan free of all debt and are making a clean, unen­ p The work begun so directly last summer shows cumbered start in a new chapter” in their city’s no signs of a relapse. On the contrary, we are theosophical growth. forging ahead with great vigor and results begin to be noticeable all around. Several lodges have Our Impertinence written us about the improvements initiated on the From several quarters we have been criticized basis of suggestipns provided in our Plan and it for the sending out of questionnaires — our “ Di­ will interest our readers to see a few of these rectory Blanks” — in which we ask such imperti­ comments. nent questions as “What is your favorite pastime A reinstated member writes: “ I was a member or hobby?” and “ What special field of theosophical back in 1918, but in moving to another city I did study or activity interests you most?” There is not join the local lodge because the atmosphere also a question about the member’s educational of the group was too stiff and so deadly serious background. If all our critics realized: First, that (no touch of cosmic mirth) that I could not feel of course the information they give us of a personal at home. I went to another city and my interest nature is kept purely confidential; second, that it was rekindled by a lecturer and I was invited to is not asked from the point of view of curiosity, but rejoin the lodge there. 1 felt a new connection to guide us in our work; and third, that already offered an avenue of considerable helpfulness in the extreme usefulness for this purpose has been many kinds of personal and social education or demonstrated — they would not resent these ques­ development, and being by basic inclination an tions in the least. For example, by January 4 we experimenter, decided I would like to try out had received 637 answered blanks, which revealed membership in the Society. Although this is but that more than two-thirds of our membership has two or three months ago, I can say that I am very had high school education or its equivalent, and of happy in the association. May I say quite frankly the other third, 134 had college degrees. We found that I am glad that the new Greater America Plan a preponderant interest in art, music; dramatics, is being tried out. I doubt if the old methods would etc., and an almost equal interest in activities such at all interest me. Members who do not take an as are taken care of in the Theosophical Order of active part in meetings soon become indifferent, Service. Many were interested in public work of but when they have to participate through such a Borne kind or in writing. Others expressed an scheme as the H. P. B. Training Class, to which interest in the study of astrology, the new edu­ we have just committed ourselves for a week’s cation, science or some other definite line of cultural THE AMERICAN THEOSOPHIST 39

activity. A third of these people with outspoken use of existing means without requiring immedi­ interests desire to be put in touch with others ately a new type of organization. This art course working along the same lines. When our field distinctly serves our Special Objective Number workers return to Headquarters in April, their Three, “ To develop a sense of beauty and culture first work will be to associate together these in the entire membership.’’ workers of various types and the beneficial result So does the arts and crafts department of the this will have upon our whole Section cannot Theosophical Order of Service. This saem organ­ easily be overestimated. ization is excellently fitted to promote Objective The returned questionnaires reveal that there Number Nine, “ To develop and broaden the con­ is a real need for a swift and careful development cept of right citizenship in every member.” of the cultural side of our program and for a more Members interested along these lines can write systematic introduction of Theosophy to the public for information to the Head Brother for America and to new members. Many other interesting and of the T. O. S., Mr. Robert R. Logan, “ Sarobia,” valuable conclusions are suggested by the answers Eddington, Pa. given, to which we shall presently give attention and publicity in this magazine. Incidentally, a On the March number of members have not received a question­ Yes, our “ Greater America Plan” is definitely naire blank became the mailing list used was that marching on to its gradual realization and at every of this magazine, of which in some instances only step is proving its timeliness and its effectiveness. one copy is sent to members living under one roof. While we will undoubtedly make mistakes and see Headquarters will be glad to send more copies on some failures, we feel confident that we are going request. in the right direction and in the main are using the right measures. Monthly, we will keep our Art Appreciation members posted on the work that is being done The great interest in the development of artistic toward the realization of this plan to which they taste revealed by the questionnaire prompts us to pledged themselves with such unstinted moral and call attention to the new art course, which was material support. As long as their support con­ announced on Page 19 of the January number. tinues, the work can continue and will continue It is a splendid six month’s course, which will until victory has been achieved. P. K. R. distinctly add to one’s power to relate the intel­ lectual and artistic aspects of life in a deeper view Greater America Plan Honor Roll of our splendid philosophy. Buffalo Lodge. Many of the activities suggested in our program Hypatia Lodge, Indianapolis. can be excellently taken care of by an intelligent Chicago District Theosophical Association.

The Olcott Lecture— An Invitation

By E . N o r m a n P e a r s o n

N ACCORDANCE with the resolution adopted be held by the National President, who will at the 1933 convention, the National President mark both manuscript and envelope with a I has appointed the following committee to distinguishing mark to insure identification examine manuscripts for the Olcott Lecture: after all lectures have been judged. Thus the Dr. Pieter K. Roest, C hairm an judges will not know who are the writers of the compositions they are to judge. Mrs. Ava Boman Mr. Henry Hotchener 3. Lectures should be written to take an ap­ proximate delivery time of from forty-five to Mr. E. Norman Pearson fifty minutes. Mr. Herbert A. Staggs 4. All manuscripts should be typed, double The committee invites members to send in their spaced, on letter size paper (8H by 11) and manuscripts to the National President at Olcott, on'one side of the paper only, and should be (marking the envelope “ Olcott Lecture” ) as early sent in duplicate so that one copy may remain as possible so that careful consideration may be at Headquarters to provide against loss by given to each lecture submitted. Those submitting mail during judging. If possible, manuscripts manuscripts should carefully observe the following should be mailed flat, not folded into small rules: envelopes. 1. All manuscripts must be received by June 10. The name of the member who shall have been 2. The name and address of the writer should chosen to deliver the Olcott Lecture will be an­ not be given on the manuscript but should nounced in the July issue of The American be enclosed in a sealed envelope, which will T heosofhist. 40

The Inner Life By CLARA M . CODD

The Yoga Aphorisms of Patanjali says Vyasa. And Patanjali proceeds to enumerate Patanjali now describes the results of the different methods for the overcoming of them. obstacles upon mind and body. 32. Steady aspiration and devotion to an 31. Pain and grief, despair and despon­ ideal will overcome these. dency, nervousness and restlessness, the up­ This sutra is variously translated by different set of the pranic currents, are the signs and authors. Dvivedi gives it as “ intense application results of these obstacles. to any one thing,” and Rama Prasada as “ habitua­ The commentator, Vyasa, says tion to one truth,” which truth, says Vachaspati, that the cause of pain is either “ is God.” We all know that an entire absorption in one’s self, or caused by an in any one interest will cure a distressed mind, external object or by the powers hence in mental patients we try to arouse their of Nature; and that despair is a interest in that way. We seek distraction from condition of mind consequent grief in work. Even in the ordinary world an upon the non-fulfillment of some absorbing interest in a beloved work or hobby desire. Personal desire is the has been the means of saving many a man. The tyrant in man and the root of all distracted, inharmonious condition of the psy­ pain. Hence the universal incite­ Clara M . Codd chical bodies gives way to the peace of a rhythm ment by old teachers to the attainment of Vair- steadily imposed. I remember a man telling me agya, detachment from the objects of desire. during the great war, that to him the place of But this must be the natural, expanding result peace was the front line trenches. I think I see of the growth of the soul in purity and under­ how that was. There, face to face with death, standing. A forced, artificial Vairagya is worse all lesser thoughts and interests were wiped out than useless. To quote Light on the Path: “ It of existence and so a kind of peace reigned. A is useless for the disciple to strive to learn by restless mind can be cured by concentration, means of checking himself. The soul must be a restless heart by devotion to an ideal. In­ unfettered, the desires free. But until they are teresting study is always a help to us all, giving fixed only on that state wherein there is neither food for starved minds and consequently restless reward nor punishment, good nor evil, it is in nerves. vain that he endeavors.” That is, from the 33. Purity and peace of mind are also standpoint of the noumenal world, of w’hich attained by cultivating habits of friendliness, Krishnaji speaks in very similar terms. And, compassion and a philosophic attitude too, as he says, it is not by the destruction of toward happiness and misery in one’s self, desire, which is our very life, that we attain, but and toward virtue and vice respectively. by its purification and simplification. Singleness There are no cast attitudes of mind in the of heart, singleness of mind, is purity. To such life of a Yogi. He is friendly and understanding shall come the Vision of the King in His beauty, to all, endlessly compassionate to all suffering for “ if thine eye be single, thy whole body shall and sin, and cheerfully indifferent to whatever be full of light.” changing life brings him, whether joy and success Despair and despondency, from the occult or temporary failure and mistake. His ideas standpoint, however human and unavoidable, about what is good and evil also take on a wider are sin. “ God shall forgive thee all but thy des­ meaning. He sees that they are relative. Perhaps pair.” For despair is the virtual denial of the for him goodness and evil as absolutes no longer power of the Higher Self to overcome all, the exist. Vyasa recommends that the aspirant should turning of our faces away from the vision of cultivate in his mind the habit of friendliness Him. To doubt our power to attain, to “ give toward those who are happy, and of compassion up,” is to cut the ground frcm beneath our own toward those in pain; contentment with the good, feet. “ Eeware of this, 0 candidate; beware of and indifference, absence of censorious criticism, fear that spreadeth, like the black and soundless toward the wicked. “ Thus,” says he, “ the white wings of midnight bat, between the moonlight characteristic (Sattva) makes its appearance,” of thy soul and the great goal that loometh in and the mind becomes pure and then one-pointed. the distance far away. Fear, 0 disciple, kills the Vachaspati, the commentator in turn upon will and stays all action.” Vyasa, says that being friendly to the happy The result of these mental states upon the and successful removes the dirt of envy from the physical nerves were as well known to the ancients mind, and that by not taking sides and strictly as they are known to the modern psycho-analyst. minding our own business we remove impatience They are very potent hindrances to Yoga. “ They from the mind. It reminds us of the Seven Deadly do not exist in him whose mind is entranced,” (Concluded on Page 41) 41

Dr. Besant and Mr. Judge

(A n I m p o r t a n t S t a t e m e n t B y M r . J inarajadasa )

Editor’s Note: While the following was written because of certain propaganda from outside that was insidiously injected into our lodges in England, it is applicable also in the American Section, where similar unfriendly influences have been at work.

FIND on coming to England that various years (1921-28) and in charge of all the documents individuals are trying to make a subtle prop­ which form the material for the case against Mr. 1aganda within our lodges on behalf of their Judge. Some of that material has not yet been groups which do not form part of our Theosophical published. I, for one, do not in any way desire Society. This propaganda has as its crux the to open up this matter, because even though statement: “Annie Besant betrayed the Society Mr. Judge did break up the Society (I know that of H. P. B. and the Masters.” Of course the after the “ secession” he claimed he was the statement is made by the adherents of Mr. W. original Society, and H. P. B. and Colonel Olcott Q. Judge, because they hold that she was wrong merely a kind of colony sent from New York) and he right in certain events which rent the he did a magnificent piece of work for Theosophy Society in two in the years 1893-95. in the U. S. A., and, as I have already said, I Ever since that time, Dr. Annie Besant and recognize the value of the theosophical propaganda most of us following her lead kept silent when done by the various organizations who look to attacks were made on us and our Society; we form him as the only successor of H. P. B. the original Society and are still where H. P. B. But I shall not sit silent if I hear that this transferred it, that is, Adyar, and since her passing outrageous statement about Dr. Besant is being in 1891 our Society’s work for the world has grown made a pivot to make trouble in our lodges. from country to country. We realize that there Facts are facts, and while it is better that these is room in the world for many bodies proclaiming particular facts should remain buried — for what Theosophy, nor are we going to quarrel with value have they in giving Theosophy to a world them for adopting our name. But the matter is sadly in need of it? — yet the name of Annie different when charges are made against persons, Besant is too great a one to allow to pass un­ and especially so when this particular charge, challenged false statements that detract from her that Dr. Besant betrayed the Society, is made. greatness. I was in England during all the period of the Society’s difficulty with Mr. Judge; long after, Reprinted from Theosophical News and Notes of the English I was vice president of the Society for seven Section, January-February, 1934. The Inner Life (Continued from Page iO) Sins of Catholicism. We can place them in the takes on the likeness of that upon which it medi­ order of our sheaths of consciousness, thus: phy­ tates, and to think of Him with devotion and sical,— sloth; astral — anger, lust, greed; mental earnestness is to draw near Him in thought and — pride, envy, covetousness. These have their to reflect a little His purity and power. Such natural antidotes, the Cardinal Virtues, which, persons, says Dvivedi, are the great Mahatmas, employing the same category, we may classify and the absorption of the mind of the devotee in another Mind ever steady and blissful will thus: physical — diligence; astral — meekness, produce a corresponding effect and lead finally chastity, temperance; mental — humility, con­ to Samadhi. The thirty-ninth aphorism describes tentment, generosity or brotherly love. a similar effect. The next six aphorisms continue to describe 39. Or by meditation upon that which is different ways of removing the obstacles, by the dearest to the heart. control of the breath, by meditation upon teach­ Even human love sufficiently high and pure ing received in sleep or meditation, etc. Let us and wholehearted may thus become à Gateway consider two in particular. to God. Johnston writes: “Love is a form of 37. By contemplating Those Who are free knowledge. We truly know any thing or person from desire. by becoming one therewith, in love. Thus love The mind of the Yogi, says Vyasa, is tinged by has a wisdom that the mind cannot claim, and the color of the mind of the pure whom he takes by this hearty love, this becoming one with what as an object of meditation. Hence the reason for lies beyond our personal borders, we may take a meditation upon the Master, for the mind always long step toward freedom.” 42 Personal Opinions B y L. W . ROGERS

Dr. Besant’s Prophecy months. But in the rush of dramatic events it may almost be overlooked by the casual observer. Time has a mysterious stealth that enables it to pass so swiftly that one is always amazed when And so it is with other scenes that make up the the years of the past are counted. It seems acts of the revolutionary drama. The action is so impossible that it was in 1909 that Dr. Besant fast that it is a bit difficult to get the full signifi­ delivered in London the startling course of lectures cance of any particular development. The “bank that she aptly called “ The Changing World.” holiday” will illustrate the point. That occurred What a remarkable prophecy those lectures con­ less than a year ago. The banks resumed business tained will be more fully realized if we remember and have managed to carry on after a fashion. But that it was but five years before the World War banking depends absolutely upon the confidence of and that the status quo of the civilization whose the people. The evidence that the old confidence doom she announced had been maintained since is dead is that the government was obliged to the end of the Feudal age. Probably nothing that guarantee deposits to prolong the life of the banks. a Theosophist had ever said seemed quite so far­ If the United States postal savings banks accepted fetched and bizarre to the prosperous, well con­ checking accounts the private banks would have tented, successful business man of that day as her been out of business long ago. While statesmen prophecy that the solid foundations of his very are debating what kind of banks we shall have in satisfactory world were soon to crumble beneath the future, we are liable to awaken some morning his feet. It began in America because industry to find that Uncle Sam is the only banker in the in the United States was more fully organized and United States because he is the only financier in production by machinery had reached a higher whom the people have any confidence. level than elsewhere; but the seal of doom is upon There can no longer be any doubt that the the old form of civilization and the other nations national administration realizes the full significance will inevitably fall into line. of the revolutionary changes that are now occur­ The happiest characteristic of the remarkable ring. The President’s message to the new Congress transformation that is now occurring is its peaceful was unequivocal. Such phrases as “to make our nature. The American plutocracy, which, under economic and social structure capable of dealing different circumstances, would have fought sav­ with modern life,” cannot be misunderstood. An agely every provision of the New Deal from its “ overwhelming majority of our people seek a very inception, was thoroughly frightened and greater opportunity for humanity to prosper and completely cowed by the bank collapse last March find happiness,” is an assertion as clear as it is and it has not yet recovered even a little of its old significant, while the suggestion that the revolu­ confidence and audacity. Thousands of millions tionary measures should be permanent is the last of dollars are being appropriated for expenditure stitch in the shroud of the perishing type of civili­ in ways that would have been hotly opposed in the zation that succeeded the Feudal age. early days of the depression, yet the most pluto­ cratic of the great American newspapers can The present anarchistic type of civilization has scarcely find voice enough for an intelligible pro­ no legitimate place in this age of the world. Its test. For this happy state of affairs we have to true character was pointed out in the President’s thank a few — a very few — courageous members message when he referred to “ruinous rivalries of Congress belonging to no one political faith. within industrial groups, which in many cases The rapidity with which Dr. Besant’s prophecy resemble the gang wars of the underworld.” That is being fulfilled, now that the culmination has is an accurate description. No other word than arrived and the old order has begun to break up, is “ anarchy” properly indicates the present chaos of as startling as the drama of the world change itself. economic affairs throughout the earth. The world­ A thing that a generation ago would have been a wide depression that deprived millions in every revolution in itself now passes as a mere incident. large nation of the means of life, and filled the Forty years ago a group of reformers attempted to minds of multitudes in both Occident and Orient take children out of the factories and put them in with paralyzing fear, is the legitimate result of the schools. Very slowly a little necessary legis­ that business anarchy. It is amazing that it could lation was enacted by some states. But the people have endured as long as it did in a world that had were indifferent and the press apathetic. Strange otherwise been reduced to system and order. It as it may seem, the parents of the children were could not have done so but for the fact that the against the reform. They wanted the money their development of intellect outstripped the evolution children could earn I For fully four decades that of compassion. But the human race has reached crusade to rescue childhood from industrial slavery the point where balance must be restored. Greed has dragged along. The New Deal arrived and is surrendering to 'consdence^and the dawn of a now it is sweeping to complete success in a few new day is in the sky. 43

What Lodges Are Doing

Aurora Lodge (Illinois) has started an H. P. B. Colonel Wylde is scheduled to lecture on Febru­ Training Class. Mrs. Marian Applequist is organ­ ary 22. izing, also, a public class in elementary Theosophy, Dayton Lodge meets in the homes of its mem­ which is to meet at her home on Wednesday bers, each member serving as host or hostess for a evenings. month. The lodge holds one closed meeting every Besant Lodge (Hollywood) reports that a de­ month, and the public is invited to the regular lightful Christmas lodge meeting was arranged by weekly meetings. The programs during the past the Young Theosophists. Miss Dorothy McBrayer, few weeks have covered a wide variety of subjects vice president of the group, presided. The program and have proved unusually instructive and inter­ included Christmas carols, and short talks and esting. Plans for the new year include studies on readings by the young people. The whole program Meditations from At the Feet of the Master, Inner showed much thoughtful planning and brought the L ife and Mr. Rogers’ “ Questions and Answers” spirit of Christmas to all. course. Besant Lodge (Seattle) writes that its Sunday Detroit Lodge held a very impressive public evening lectures are well attended and the class Christmas program Sunday, December 17. Mrs. work is steadily gaining. The lodge hall, which is Adeline Lennon contributed delightful music es­ in a good neighborhood, is artistic and attractive pecially selected for the occasion, and Miss Anna E. and helps to draw a cultured class of people. Kerr read five extracts illustrative of the life of Birmingham Lodge presented its president, the ChriBt. As these readings were being given, Mr. Richmond P. Wetmore, in a public lecture beautiful colored pictures portraying the events early in December, on the subject, “ The Universe were thrown upon a screen. Mr. E. Norman We Live In.” Mr. Wetmore, who is an engineer Pearson spoke of the unseen forces for spiritual and naturally approaches Theosophy from the upliftment which are liberated at the winter scientist’s point of view, gave a comprehensive, solstice. The music, lighting, pictures and talks although simplified, resume of modern scientific contributed to an evening of inspiration which opinions in physics and a comparison of these new many will long remember. The new year has discoveries with occult teaching. On December 22 started very auspiciously for Detroit Lodge. On the the lodge celebrated the Christmas season with a first two Sundays in January Mr. Arthur Coon party. There were contests dealing with titles of presented two very successful lectures, the first of theosophical books and names of theosophical a series of illustrated lectures; and Bishop Hampton leaders, and a well-filled grab bag, which helped gave two excellent public lectures in the lodge hall to fill a gap in the lodge treasury. Violin music on January 4 and 5, which attracted large audiences. and Christmas carols gave a happy atmosphere, Genesee Lodge (Rochester) enjoyed a Christ­ and light refreshments in the Christmas colors mas party and supper on December 26. The lodge closed an evening of fun. The new year was opened study class; under the leadership of Miss Sarah on January 5 with a public lecture on “ Invisible Kitchen, has been pursuing its work in Theosophy Rulership,” by Mrs. Orline Barnett Moore. and Christianity. The last meeting in December Brahmavidya Lodge (Tampa) had several out­ was given over to an experiment in an H. P. B. standing meetings during November and Decem­ Training Class session. ber, among them three meetings devoted to the Hartford Lodge writes that two public lectures subjects, “ Meditation,” “ Power of Thought,” and by Fritz Kunz on January 4 and 5 were very en­ “ Pythagoras,” and another meeting, in which all thusiastically received. The lectures served to the members took part, was devoted to a study of stimulate a deeper interest in Theosophy on the “Brotherhood.” On December 27 the lodge gave part of these to whom the teachings of the Ancient a Christmas party, to which the members of the Wisdom were new, and all who attended enjoyed Theosophical Library Association were invited. the lectures very much. The members are now Excerpts from Dickens* Christmas Carol were read, looking forward to a visit from Dr. Roest in and a talk on “ The History of the Christmas February. Festival and Its Customs” was presented. After­ Heraklea Lodge (Chicago) decided to meet dur­ wards there were music and refreshments. Every­ ing Christmas week instead of discontinuing one present agreed that the party was a great as has been its custom, and the Christmas meet­ success. ing was a very pleasant and successful one. Chicago Lodge has been offering an exception­ About thirty members and friends were present. ally valuable lecture series by Prof. R. Brenes- There was a cheerful fire in the fireplace, and Mesen. On February 11 the lodge will be host to the room was lighted only by that and many the lodges in Chicago and vicinity in a “ Chicago candles. The president, Mr. Sigurd Sjoberg, Day” program, after which tea will be served. gave an informal talk about the Christmas 44 THE AMERICAN THEOSOPHIST festival in different lands and the origin of Christ­ to meet regularly and the attendance has not only mas customs, and Mrs. Ella Beckwith read been maintained, but has increased. This is attri­ aloud a beautiful story. The evening was con­ buted to the splendid ability of Mr. John Eklund cluded with folk dancing and refreshments. as class leader, as well as to a series of three Kansas City Lodge has moved to new quarters, lectures given during the last week of each month in the Carlton Hotel, and anticipates renewed inter­ by Bishop Hampton. During the Christmas sea­ est and activity as a result. Mrs. Betty Dolan son, the two Boy Scout troops sponsored by the gave an informal tea for members of the lodge in lodge were the guests of Mr. and Mrs. Eklund at honor of Miss Eldred Taylor, who sailed for the the Theosophical Headquarters in Omaha. Over Canal Zone on December 13, and Mrs. Lee Dorin forty boys were present and enjoyed the Christmas Hankins, who sailed for France on December 16. tree, sang carols, ate ice cream and cake and were Los Angeles Lodge announces that it has given bags of fruit and nuts. moved to new lodge rooms, which are very nice, Portland Lodge has a splendid H. P. B. modern, artistic and ample for the lodge activities. Training Class, in which all of the members take The members are doing everything possible to part, led by Miss Violet MacLean. Open meetings make their new quarters fit the standard set in are held every Sunday evening, as well as several the Greater America Plan. study classes on various subjects during the week. Minneapolis Lodge gave a New Year’s Eve St. Louis Lodge organized an additional class party, at which it entertained about seventy in “Bible Interpretation” on January 22. These members and friends. The entertainment was classes have been carried on most successfully presented under the auspices of the “ Nirvana Nite since early in the fall season. Mr. Chas. E. Luntz, Club,” numerous bridge tables and chairs being president of the lodge, gave a very interesting talk placed in the lodge rooms to carry out the effect. on the subject of “ Patience Worth” at the January A four-piece orchestra played for the dancing, and meeting of the Theo-Arts Study Club. The social the Young Theosophists staged a mock wedding, for January took the form of a “ kid party,” with which was very humorous and afforded the guests toys for all the guests. The members are looking much amusement. A prominent astrologer gave forward to a visit from Colonel Wylde from Febru­ horoscope card readings for the new year. The ary 26 to March 4. party was a success socially and financially. New York Lodge is presenting Fritz Kunz in a St. Petersburg Lodge enjoyed a “ Dutch Din­ series of lectures on “ The Origins of Occultism in ner” on New Year’s Eve at the home of Dr. Clara India,” to be followed, beginning March 4, by a A. Hooper. The members discussed ways and series on “ The Origins of Occultism in Nature,” by means of bringing more life and activity into the Dr. Alvin Kuhn. The lodge has a very full pro­ lodge work, and closer and better cooperation with gram each week, including public lectures, classes Headquarters. and seminars. San Antonio Lodge held its annual meeting Oak Park Lodge has started a fund for a new and election of officers on January 3. The report lodge home. In October, Dr. and Mrs. L. Abt gave for 1933 indicated that in spite of the depression a musical, and Mr. and Mrs. G. V. Burns gave a the lodge had prospered in many ways during the party, and the proceeds of both affairs went to year. The members are looking forward to the this fund for new lodge quarters. The lodge had new year with much hope and courage, and an as its guests most of the Headquarters staff and unfailing determination to make Theosophy felt in many of its own members and friends at a Christ­ San Antonio. mas party on December 20. Miss Eva Minnich Springfield Lodge (Massachusetts) is planning and Mrs. Blanche Krauss Reed, of Olcott, very to conduct a new forum, which is to meet once a capably presented a negro skit, which was thor­ month. Dr. Kenneth C. Hitchcock, president of oughly enjoyed by everyone. Many games were Hartford Lodge, is to preside and to give a short played and a grab bag provided much merri­ talk at each meeting. Other local speakers sched­ ment, and one of the beautiful features of the uled to give talks in the near future are Mrs. evening was the singing of Christmas carols. Emma L. Bragg and Mr. Nathan P. Avery. The Oklahoma City Lodge plans to have a new lodge had a short visit from Miss Anita Henkel lodge program during the coming year. Sunday early in December. There was an informal re­ afternoons are to be devoted to the large class ception for her on December 2, and she gave a talk formed while Mr. Rogers was there, and which has to the members and also a public lecture on De­ been splendidly carried on under the leadership of cember 3. The members all enjoyed Miss Henkel’s Captain Leo Partlow. After the class there will be visit and assured her of a warm welcome when next open house and tea. A vegetarian dinner is served she visits Springfield. by the lodge every Friday evening. Committees Yggdrasil Lodge joined with Minneapolis of members take turns in preparing the dinners, and Lodge in entertaining tbe St. Paul members at a much good food is served. Occasionally there is Christmas party on December 23. Dr. E. C. Boxell impromptu music. The members enjoy the friend­ gave a very fine talk appropriate to the season; ly contacts of these weekly meetings, and the Mrs. A. Ruder read “ The Happy Prince;” and proceeds find their way to the “ Little House” fund. the Theosophical Quartet sang a group of old Omaha Lodge reports that the class of over English carols. By the fireplace were hung three thirty-five members, which resulted from Mr. stockings, into which the guests placed an offering Rogers’ series of lectures in Omaha, has continued as their Christmas gifts to their respective lodges. 45

Section News and Notes

The Method of Election Distinguished Australian Guest About the end of February a printed ballot with — The Truth About 2 GB full instructions will be mailed to each and every individual member who was in good standing on We were happy to have as a Headquarters guest November 11,1933, that being the date upon which over the week-end of January 13, Mr. A. E. the last Annual Report was mailed to Adyar. Bennett, the Managing Director of the theo­ Voting can then immediately commence and will sophical broadcasting station, 2GB, in Sydney, continue to April 20. Ballots received after that Australia. Not only did we find Mr. Bennett a date will not be valid. delightful guest, with his heart and his interest deep in the work of the Theosophical Society, but Voting will be by secret ballot and all votes will his visit afforded us a first-hand opportunity of be counted on April 21, by a committee appointed learning about this broadcasting venture, at which by the National President, who will certify the so much criticism has been directed. result and send a record of the voting to Adyar, in duplicate by two separate mails to provide against Started some six or seven years ago in a very possible loss and to insure that the American vote small way, we learn that through the enterprise of will be taken into account when the votes from all its directors, working under the chairmanship of Sections are compiled at Adyar on June 20. The Dr. Arundale and the management of Mr. Bennett, result of this compilation will be announced at 2GB has become the most powerful broadcasting Adyar on June 21. The voting is not by Sections station in Australasia and by far the most popular, but by individual members, although the General competing successfully with other commercial Secretary of each Section compiles the votes of his stations and with those supported by the govern­ members, sending only the totals to Adyar. ment. The station has taken over practically all of the publicity work of the Society and now Families who receive but one copy of T h e maintains a theosophical publicity department, A m e r ic a n T h e o s o p h is t will receive as many regularly giving theosophical programs and con­ copies of the voting blank as there are members of ducting the correspondence with those who have the Society in the family, but probably all will be become interested through the broadcasting. addressed to “ Mr. and Mrs.” Will theosophical families please be sure not to destroy the extra The station is run along strictly business line3. blanks, although they may appear to have been It could exist only if it successfully competed in mailed in error? acquiring revenue from advertising, for no station could be maintained on the income from theo­ The candidates are: sophical programs alone. From an expenditure of Dr. George S. Arundale $200 a week it has developed to the point where Nominated by $3500 a week is now necessary for its maintenance. C. W. Leadbeater It has paid off every dollar of borrowed money, is C. Jinarajadasa not in debt to the Section and has ample reserves Sidney A. Cook to insure its continued activity. Its charter pro­ and twenty-three others vides that every share of its stock must be in the Prof. Ernest Wood hands of members of the Theosophical Society; it Nominated by is dedicated to the service of Theosophy and theo­ D. K. Telang sophical enterprise. Albert E. S. Smythe Our congratulations to Dr. Arundale, who has and three others insisted throughout that the station should have a The president is elected for a term of seven years. business management and that it shall remain in the hands of Theosophists, and to Mr. Bennett, for Dr. Cousins* Lodge Program the success of his management. Friends of Dr. James H. Cousins, who is now the principal of the Theosophical College, at Max Wardall Passes Madanapalle, will be glad to know that he has published in pamphlet form his analysis of the Just as we go to press, word comes of the needs for lodge work and a program for such sudden and peaceful passing, due to heart failure, activity under the title “The Theosophical Syn­ of a truly loved and honored brother, Max Wardall. thesis.” There may be lodges or members who A stalwart servant of the Great Ones, he left a would like to have copies of this little pamphlet, deep impress on the Society during years of splen­ which certainly contains valuable information. It did success as a lecturer. True friend of Dr. was published about a year ago in The Messenger, Besant, he has been released soon to return to a but it is now made more conveniently available new life of even more effective and dynamic in pamphlet form. living in Their name. 46 THE AMERICAN THEOSOPHIST

Colonel Wylde—A Welcome The Cost of Unpaid Pledges Visitor On an average, our Building Fund pledges have Such enthusiastic reports are coming to us from been outstanding five years. The present unpaid the members and lodges which have already had total pledges is somewhere around $50,000. On the opportunity of hearing Colonel Wylde that we this amount the Society has paid interest for five are sorry not all of our lodges have made engage­ years on bonds that would have been redeemed ments with him. However, those to whom he is had the pledges been paid. In five years this coming have a vepr great deal to anticipate, for interest has amounted to $15,000 — that is the as one member writes, “ Colonel Wylde fascinated amount which the Society has paid in interest his audience with his charm of personality, keen because of unpaid pledges. To bring it down to sense of humor and immense wealth of knowledge. an individual basis, the member who has a $100 He seems to be a rare combination of mystic and pledge unpaid for five years has allowed the occultist, of philosopher and scientist. The keynote Society to pay $30 in interest on the bond which of Colonel Wylde’s lectures is the realization of the that $100 would have paid had the pledge been power of God within and the necessity of expres­ redeemed. sing it in outer creative activity.” These figures are given as presenting a new The member who writes to us adds that no lodge thought to promote prompt payment of pledges can afford to miss the opportunity of presenting when our members shall be so fortunate as to so dynamic a lecturer as Colonel Wylde. have funds available again.

New Lodge Officers 1934 Convention Dates Bcsant Lodge, Houston, — Pres., Miss Christine M. Walter; Vice Pres., Mrs. Jessie H. Thompson; Sec’y, Miss Subject to the approval of the Board of Direc­ Elsie M. Walter; Treas., Miss Belle Williamson; Librarian and Purchasing Book Agent, Miss Freda Dewson. tors, the convention of 1934 will be held from Crescent City Lodge — Pres., Miss Muriel Mitchell; Vice August 19 to 23 inclusive, with the reception on Pres., Mm. W. H. Henderson; Sec’y. Mr. Joseph Mason; Treas., Mrs. Ona Norman; Directors: Mr. Claude Smith, Mr. Morales, the preceding Saturday evening, the convention Mr. C. Redwitz, Mis. Claire Langermann and Mrs. J. Corry. activities continuing through Sunday, Monday, San Antonio Lodge — Pres., Mrs. Winnie F. Hardy; Tuesday and Wednesday. 1st Vice Pres., Mrs. Marie Connor; 2nd Vice Pres., Mr. T. D. Dawkins; Sec’y, Miss Helen Clemens; Treas., Mrs. Annie With the approval of the Board of Directors Campbell; Librarian and Publicity Agent, Mrs. Pansy E. last summer, an extra day will be devoted to the Black; Purchasing Book Agent, Mr. N. L. Hardy; Trustees: convention this year. Probably the official call to Mrs. Hallie Day and Miss Mary Calloway. order will be about noon on Monday. We are advised that no fewer than six very fine exact astrological aspects take place during this con­ Itineraries vention period, and this but adds to the assurance already everywhere felt that 1934 will produce L e c t u r e r s another memorable convention. We are preparing Mr. L. W. Rogers for still greater attendance, and we expect in due January 28-February 8, Jacksonville, Fla. coiirse to be able to announce the presence of February 11-22, Birmingham, Ala. distinguished guests. February 25-March 8, Atlanta, Ga. Convention will, of course, be preceded by some Colonel L. F. Wylde few weeks of summer school and institute, the exact period yet to be determined. February 2- 4, Cleveland, Ohio February 5-19, Michigan February 20-25, Chicago, 111. February 26-March 4, St. Louis, Mo. F ie l d W o r k e r s M r. J. H. Talbot Miss Anita Henkel Mr. J. H. Talbot, of Los Angeles, well known for February 1- 6, Norfolk, Va. h5.s library work, has been seriously ill, and his February 8-14, Augusta, Ga. friends will be glad to know that he is now on the February 16-21, Jacksonville, Fla. road to recovery. February 22-26, Gainesville, Fla. Dr. Nina E. Pickett February, St. Petersburg, Fla. F ie l d D ir e c t o r H. P. B. Portrait Dr. Pieter K.Roest In our December issue we recounted the ac­ January 22-Feb. 9, New England Federation. quisition of the splendid portrait by Gutzoh February 11-15, Albany, N. Y. Borglum. That picture now hangs in the Shrine February 16-19, Syracuse, N. Y . Room at Olcott. We reproduce it, with its frame, February 20-24, Rochester, N. Y. inside our front cover. February 25-28, Buffalo, N. Y. THE AMERICAN THEOSOPHIST 47 Theosophy In Action American Theosophical Fund Felix Layton, chairman of the Young Theoso- Previous receipts...... $349.30 phists, took the opportunity to introduce many To January 16...... 36.36 theosophical ideas when he was asked to deliver $385.66 a sermon on December 17 at the Episcopal Church in Flint, Michigan, as president of the young Building Fund people’s organization in the church. Mrs. Jennie T. Wood, Mr. Otis S. Vaniman, Mrs. Florence He took for his subject "Beauty in Religion,” Kramer, Mrs. Rosa L. Sutfin, Mr. Louis P. Tolby, Miss Anna E. Kerr, Miss Lucile Tenny, Mrs. C. Sarris, Mrs. Margaret Gross, stating that it is that aspect which appeals to Mrs. Florence B. Correll, Maryland Lodge, Montclair Lodge, and holds the interest of the devotees of religion. Mr. M. B. Holmes, Dr. Nina E. Pickett — Total $140.50. He spoke of the men who planned the church edifice, of those who designed the beautiful stained Greater America Plan glass windows and of those who created the poetic Previous receipts...... $1,628.03 beauty of its literature and the magnificent music. To January 15 ...... 269.50 He spoke also of the priests, who made of the $1,897.63 ritual a thing of beauty, and of the laymen, whose worship lifts them out of ugliness into a realm of beauty, and he closed by asking the congregation Higher Memberships to join him in visualizing a beautiful episode from Previous receipts...... $1,646.00 the Bible. To January 15...... 189.63 The sermon was so successful that Mr. Layton $1,835.63 is next to talk to the young people of the church on the subject, "What Is Theosophy?” Christmas Fund Previous receipts...... $17.00 To January 15...... 148.10 Mrs. Edith Lee Ruggles, of Sacramento, Cali­ fornia, accepted an invitation from the Women’s $165.10 Committee of the N. R. A. recently to broadcast over a national network on the subject, "The Helping Hand Fund N. R. A. from the Woman’s Viewpoint.” Mrs. Total...... $2.26 Ruggles was introduced as past chairman of the Federation of Women’s Clubs, and as president of the Theosophical Society in Sacramento. She Prison Literature Fund gave a splendid talk along theosophical lines, Total...... $1.00 thus helping in the great work of spreading our views. Deaths Mr. August Westby, San Francisco Lodge, December 7,1933. Miss Harriet L. Brewer, Genesee Lodge, January 6, 1934. Mr. Max Wardall, National Member, January 25, 1934. Visitors At Olcott Mrs. L. Hrale, Deerfield, 111.; Mrs. J. E. McCon­ Marriages nell, St. Louis, Mo.; Jacqueline McConnell, St. Miss Stella E. Paisley, National Member, and Mr. Vernon E. Briard, December 3,1933. Louis, Mo.; D. V. Strander, Chicago; Elsie B. Mrs. Anne Brainard Dexter, Akbar Lodge, and Mr. Arthur Sherwood, Dedham, Mass.; Elizabeth Hancock, Nelson, November 30, 1933. Mr. Ernest R. Brockway, Colorado Lodge, and Miss Bertha Chicago; Mrs. L. K. Purdom, Balboa, Canal A. Lippard, recently. Zone; Margaret Purdom, Balboa, Canal Zone; Ruth Marquardt, Chicago; Margaret C. Clark, Wheaton, 111.; Gilbert H. Marquardt, Chicago; Edith Webster, Chicago; George Jansberg, St. Mr. Burling Visits Headquarters Louis; Lew Gallagher, Chicago; Lancaster D. We were happy to have as our guest recently, Burling, Boulder, Colo.; Mrs. Lula C. Samuel, Mr. Lancaster D. Burling, of Boulder, Colorado, Hinsdale, 111.; Grace R. Gregory, Wheaton, 111.; president of the Colorado Federation, who spent Albert E. Gregory, Wheaton, 111. a few hours with us at Headquarters.

New Members from December Press Business Developing 21 to January 20 The signs of business stimulation that have been Applications for membership during the above period were appearing in commercial circles are now becoming received from the following cities: Jacksonville, Fla.; St. Louis, Mo.; Philadelphia, Pa.; Sausalito, Calif.; Columbus, Ohio; evident in the growth of the business of the Theo­ Butler, Okla.; Hollywood, Calif.; Los Angeles, Calif.; Pitts­ sophical Press. For the first time in several years, burgh, Pa.; Des Moines, Iowa; Tampa, Fla.; Houston, Texas; New York City, N. Y.; Astoria, L. I., N. Y.; Port Angeles, the sales of recent months are exceeding the total Wash.; Wallace, Idaho; Huntington, West Va.; Tulsa, Okla.; of the corresponding months a year ago. Atlanta, Ga.; Detroit, Mich.; Henderson, Ky.; Brooklyn, N. Y.; Newark, N. J.; Washington, D. C.; Glendale, Calif. (Concluded on Pago 48) 48 THE AMERICAN THEOSOPHIST

Tables are being revived in several cities. In other places small groups are gathering and are now potential Tables. The Chief Knight has been requested to visit some of these and establish active Tables. If a few more lodges feel like co­ operating by accepting engagements for lecture dates, it will be possible for the Chief Knight to make an organization tour, and begin the real task of making our Round Table Order one of A League of Young People the outstanding youth organizations in America. Banded Together for Service M otto! “ Live pure; speak true; right wrong; follow the King." Even where only a few lodge members have Pages: 7 to 11 years Squires: 18 to 20 Companions: 12 to 17 Knights: Over 21 children — or in fact, where there are no children Official organ: MODERN KNIGHTHOOD at all — the lecture engagement will prove of A Newspaper by Young Citizens of Am erica mutual benefit. Although no attempt is made to S u b s c r i p t i o n P r i c e ...... $ 1 . 0 0 p e r y e a r establish a Table, the lodge members and the At least two centers of Round Table activity public of their town will enjoy hearing of the have sprung up voluntarily, founded by groups unique work of this Order and seeing the many of young people who organized themselves after interesting photographic pictures which the Chief Knight will show on the screen. No financial simply reading copies of M o d e r n K n i g h t h o o d . One, a boy’s Table at Wilmington, Delaware, guarantee or obligation is asked of any lodge. elected officers and formed committees for var­ The Chief Knight’s lecture is entitled: “Can ious departments of its work, while waiting for Youth Rebuild the World?” supplies, application blanks and Table report papers to be sent them from R. T. headquarters. Round Table headquarters appreciates the words of good cheer and the support given by friends from various cities and towns during the Anyone who has subscribed for M o d e r n Christmas and New Year season. This en­ K n i g h t h o o d and is not receiving it, is asked to couragement and practical cooperation, including write R. T. headquarters, stating the date and subscriptions to the Round Table paper, M o d e r n the amount sent. Also write name and address K n i g h t h o o d , are being put into good service very plainly, in hand-printed letters. with economical and effective management.

Section News and Notes

( Continued From Page J>7) A Delightful Gift to Olcott Helping Hand Fund Miss Mary K. Neff recently sent to us from In days gone by, the Society apparently used to Adyar a precious bit of tapestry woven by the have fairly frequent contributions to a small fund skillful fingers of Annie Besant when she was a out of which help could be given to old theosophi­ little girl. This piece of tapestry is a portion of a cal workers and members temporarily in distress. long strip, several of which she made and joined More than ever do the calls come in to us — seldom together to cover an armchair for her mother. is there a contribution to the fund. One complete strip is at Adyar. The times are difficult for those who would be so The American Section and Olcott in particular glad to contribute, as well as for those who would are indebted to Miss Neff for her thoughtfulness be the beneficiaries. But let us remember that in sending it. through this fund members wishing to dispense aid to worthy people may find assurance that their desire to help will be turned effectively into ap­ THE THEOSOPHIST proved channels. Official International Organ of the T. S. Should Be in Every Public Library and in Every Theosophical Home and Lodge in WANTED the United States. A few second-hand copies of Science o f $4.50 per year the Emotions by Bhagavan Das.

Subscriptions through the Theosophical Press Please write T h e Theosophical Press, O l c o t t , W h e a t o n , I llinois Wheaton, Illinois, stating price. THE AMERICAN THEOSOPHIST BOOH, JHBDU^L fseuiews J[®

R ^ W a w -'J asr C H 6 BOOIS one UAOCS (ubcd'Oije-wairteUt, i3^ncl-rau.st-rcTriatjvtbe'.5upremC'l'UX\vry'e^t$e/-cuVt(>'Btc

Count Cagliostro. An Authentic Story of a M ys­ alchemist and healer, the benefactor of all and terious Life. By Constantin Photiades. Rider & sundry, winning the love and reverence of many Co., London, England. Price, cloth $5.00. followers wherever he sojourns; then he is sketched “Who is Sylvia? What is she?” Only in this as the exceedingly unpleasant charlatan, Guisepze instance the song should run: “Who was Cagli­ Balsamo, hated and hounded over Europe by the ostro? What was he?” ; and who is M. Photiades, victims of his fraud. Although the subject-matter his biographer? Not in the 288 pages of this book of the book is in itself tremendously interesting, are these questions answered. and in spite of the author’s attempt to recount in Manly Hall (in his encyclopedic work on Sym­ sprightly fashion the ins and outs of Cagliostro’s bolic Philosophy) describes Cagliostro as “the adventures, the book is slow and difficult to read, most caluminated man in modern history,” an the style is heavy and involved, the arrangement alchemist, the creator of the Egyptian Rite of of the episodes and contrasting versions repetitious Freemasonry, altogether a most remarkable per­ and confusing. There is no bibliography of the son. William Balithe (Twelve Against the Gods) sources on which the book is based; no reference to calls him “half a hooligan, half a lout,” who owes the author’s authorities. his reputation even as a charlatan and trickster In fact the reviewer feels on closing the book that to the determination and ambition of his wife, with all his research M. Photiades has failed to Seraphina. The Encyclopedia Britannica, in a provide material upon which any decision about brief paragraph, identifies him as “the Italian Cagliostro can be based and leaves his readers as alchemist and imposter,” Guisepze Balsamo. much at sea as ever, still questioning, “ Who was Madame Blavatsky (The Secret Doctrine) cites him Cagliostro? What was he?” — D. M. W. B. with Mesmer and Comte de St. Germain as a mis­ judged pioneer. The following excerpt from the translator’s pre­ face indicates the noncommital attitude assumed by M. Photiades in his “authentic version of a The Psalms of Krishna, by Richard Carlyle. mysterious life:” “It is, indeed, frequently dis­ Phoenix Press, Los Angeles, California. Price, missed as the life of a charlatan, but those who cloth $2.50. believe that that description all too often conceals only ignorance and prejudice would wish to probe An interpretation of The Bhagavad-Gita in blank beneath the scornful epithet and get at the facts. verse. The colloquy which takes place between On the contrary, there are others who readily Krishna and Arjuna is written with such lucidity assume that anyone who has dabbled in the occult, that it must command the attention of the ordi­ nary reader, as weii as that of the advanced who has suffered persecution and inspired the student. Everyone who is discouraged or des­ blind devotion and loyalty of innumerable follow­ pondent in the present economic crisis will find ers must be invested with the majesty, the sacred­ renewed hope and vigor by the perusal of this ness and the inscrutability of a semi-divine book, for it opens up wide horizons in the under­ personage.” M. Photiades, says the translator, has standing of the needs-be of difficult problems often presented the material “ upon which alone a sound accompanied with acute anguish, in the volutionary judgment can be formed,” material gathered from trend of events in this changing world. A book to extensive researches into all available sources of read over and over again, and each time new zeal information concerning Count Cagliostro, but towards all that makes for freedom and the con­ leaves his readers to draw their own conclusions. quest of the lower self will be inspired. Cagliostro is first pictured in the various inci­ dents and periods of his career as the genuine — M a u d e L a m b a r t -T a y l o r . The Original Programme of The Theosophical Society

By H. P. B l a v a t s k y W ith an Introduction by C. Jinarajadasa A fundamental pronouncement regarding the aim of the Theosophical Society which will always remain as a kind of Magna Carta for Theosophists. This little book states very clearly just what the aim of the Theosophical Society was when it was founded. A book so valuable just at this time, for it gives one a clear under­ standing of the Original Programme, then certainly there can he no doubt as to how the work should be carried on at present. Neatly bound in medium blue cloth, gold lettering. Price $1.00

Special Price on Pamphlets Booklets provide valuable, interesting information at very little expense. After they are read, they may he passed along to a friend — thus greater good is accom­ plished. This selected group is priced very low. Regular Price America, Her Power and Purpose, George S. Arundale...... 25 cents Ancient Ideals in Modern Masonry, C. W. Leadbeater...... 10 cents Basis of the Theosophical Society, Annie Besant...... 10 cents Expanded Theosophical Knowledge, A. P. Sinnett...... 25 cents The Fourth Dimension, C. W. Leadbeater...... 10 cents Mind Radio, Max Wardall...... 25 cents Occult View of the War, C. W. Leadbeater...... 10 cents Other Side of Death, Clara M. Codd...... 5 cents Our Relation to Children, C. W. Leadbeater...... 20 cents The Religion of J. Krishnamurti, J. T. Davies...... 10 cents The Secret of Sin and Suffering, Clara M. C odd...... 10 cents Stanzas of Dzvan, H. P. Blavatsky...... 25 cents Sweets for Health, M. Claunch...... 15 cents The Theosophical Society — First Fifty Years...... 25 cents Theosophy and Theosophists, C. Jinarajadasa...... 15 cents Thought the Creator, Clara M. C odd...... 5 cents To Those Who Rejoice, Fritz Kunz...... 5 cents The United States of Europe, Annie Besant...... 15 cents An Offering to The Voice of the Silence, V. R. Stone...... 25 cents OnThientation, C. W. Leadbeater...... 10 cents

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