wn priests,
who say, `that the power of the devil is only permitted to be used by
Divine intelligence, and that it cannot used without that permission?'
Allow it then to be sorcery, or what you please, unless by Heaven
permitted, it would fail. But I cannot see why we should suppose that
it is from an evil source. We ask for a warning in a dream to guide our
conduct in doubtful circumstances. Surely the evil one would rather
lead us wrong than right!"

"Amine, we may be warned in a dream, as the patriarchs were of old; but
to use mystic or unholy charms to procure a vision, is making a compact
with the devil."

"Which compact the evil could not fulfil if not permitted by a higher
power. Philip, your reasoning is false. We are told that, by certain
means, duly observed, we may procure the dreams we wish. Our observance
of these means is certainly the least we can attend to, to prove our
sincerity. Forgive me, Philip, but are not observances as necessary in
your religion--which I have embraced? Are we not told that the omission
of the mere ceremony of water to the infant will turn all future chance
of happiness to misery eternal."

Philip answered not for some time. "I am afraid, Amine," said he, at
last, in a low tone; "I--"

"I fear nothing, Philip, when my intentions are good," replied Amine.
"I follow certain means to obtain an end. What is that end? It is to
find out (if possible) what may be the will of Heaven in this perplexing
case. If it should be through the agency of the devil, what then? He
becomes my servant, and not my master; he is permitted by Heaven to act
against himself;" and Amine's eyes darted fire, as she thus boldly
expressed herself.

"Did your mother often exercise her art?" inquired Philip, after a
pause.

"Not to my knowledge; but it was said that she was most expert. She
died young (as you know), or I should have known much more. Think you,
Philip, that this world is solely peopled by such dross as we are?--
things of clay--perishable and corruptible? Lords over beasts--and
ourselves but little better. Have you not, from your own sacred
writings, repeated acknowledgments and proofs of higher intelligences
mixing up with mankind and acting here below? Why should what was then,
not be now! and what more harm is there to apply for their aid now, than
a few thousand years ago? Why should you suppose that they were
permitted on the earth then--and not permitted now? What