Page:The History of a Lie (1921).djvu/45

 “The clock in the tower struck two past midnight. The last of the mysterious visitors knocked at the window and a hoarse voice said (as though the speaker knew that the watchman was not asleep):

“‘Close the house of life, watchman of those who are awaiting the resurrection, and may your lips be sealed with the seal of Solomon for a hundred years.’

“The scholar still lay motionless; he was afraid to stir; all he had heard had made upon him such a dreadful impression.

“A noise near him indicated that his companion was rising.

“‘To concentrate in their hands all the capital of the nations of all lands; to secure possession of all the land, railroads, mines, houses; to be at the head of all organizations, to occupy the highest governmental posts, to paralyze commerce and industry everywhere, to seize the press, to direct legislation, public opinion and national movements—and all for the purpose of subjugating all nations on earth to their power! No! I shall struggle against the golden calf and shall smash it to pieces as Moses smashed it in the desert.’

“‘What we heard is a threat against all society. Here is my hand, I will be your comrade in this struggle against the power of gold.’

“The Italian shook his head, but accepted the extended hand. ‘No,’ he said, ‘I want to act alone. There is a force which, if properly directed, is not weaker than gold. That force is poverty and her companion, labor. I shall call them out and lead them into battle. Proud Israel! Beware! I shall put against you the Artel (union) and Labor.’

“‘And I,’ said the scholar, with animation, ‘all that is lofty and noble,—science, idealism, faith—I shall lead these against this materialism.’

“His comrade laughed:

“‘Your ideals will crumble as clay striking against metal. Only the forces of poverty and hunger can be the fighters that will defeat the golden calf. Our ways part here; you will go one way, and I another. My promise is fulfilled; but remember your vow—be silent as to all that you have heard and seen here!’”