Page:Marie Corelli - the writer and the woman (IA mariecorelliwrit00coat).pdf/120

 *est shadow of wrong is to me as gross an act as that of one who, loaded with benefits, scruples not to murder his benefactor!"

The reading of "Ardath" will help many to the conviction of Theos Alwyn—"God Exists. I, of my own choice, prayer, and hope, voluntarily believe in God, in Christ, in angels, and in all things beautiful, and pure, and grand! Let the world and its ephemeral opinions wither; I will not be shaken down from the first step of the ladder whereon one climbs to Heaven!"

Such is the teaching of this remarkable book "Ardath," which inculcates these lessons interwoven with a romantic story of fascinating interest.

Towards its close there occurs, again in the person and in the words of Heliobas, a scathing comment upon "spiritualists," for whom six tests are suggested:

"Firstly.—Do they serve themselves more than others?—If so, they are entirely lacking in spiritual attributes.

"Secondly.—Will they take money for their professed knowledge?—If so, they condemn themselves as paid tricksters.

"Thirdly.—Are the men and women of commonplace and thoroughly material life?—Then, it is