cultured artist he really was. There is
something mysterious about his strong, intellectual, spiritual nature,
which has aroused my interest in him, and my sympathy for him, to a
degree that is very unusual for me. The more I know of him the more I
wish to win his friendship.

"What a terrible misfortune, that he is so afflicted by the deformity of
that spinal trouble! I cannot help picturing him as possessed of a
physique in harmony with his glorious intellectual and spiritual
unfoldment. How naturally then, he could win the love of some equally
gifted, noble woman. How happy they could make each other through the
passing changes of a long and useful life. Aside from my speculative
fancies, I do wonder what the future has in store for him? How bravely
he bears himself! He does not seem inclined to be gloomy or
misanthropical under the burden of his misfortune!"

"I think, my dear Fern, that my story will unravel the mystery. I am
delighted to find that you have already become interested in Gilbert,
and have discovered so many of his good qualities! I can assure you that
he is worthy of your sympathy and friendship! He is a noble fellow!
Richly endowed, with a remarkable, intuitive, spiritual nature! His
enthusiasm, persevering efforts and ingenious devices, have contributed
much towards the success of this co-operative farm. The value and
variety of his especial work in the department of experimental farming,
has proved his extraordinary ability, and justly earned for him the
title of the 'wonder worker of the farm!'

"On account of Gilbert's frail form and sensitive nature, it was deemed
wise by his ever watchful parents, to give him the protection of an
isolated home life. For this purpose, a cozy cottage was built in the
center of its own grounds, some distance away from all other buildings.
This cottage was charmingly fitted and furnished in such style and taste
as would satisfy the artistic ideas of this domestic trio, and at the
same time, afford quiet, retired, spacious rooms, for Gilbert's musical
and other studies. Rooms where violin and piano practice, at any hour
that might suit his fancy, could disturb no one.

"Referring to that haunting desire which impresses you to picture
Gilbert as possessing a magnificent physique, in harmony with his
brilliant, mental and spiritual unfoldment; I accept it as another proof
of the growth of his spiritual body to the beautiful proportions you
seem to see. All psych