"Yes, it is all strange to us, but it cannot be otherwise. You see, if we knew all about what we really are and what our past has been, mortal experiences would not be the test or the school that Father intends it to be." "That is true; but think of being shut out, even in our thoughts, from this world. And then, I hear that down on earth there will be much sin and misery, and a power to tempt and lead astray. O, if we can but resist it, dear brother. What will this power be, do you know?" "I have only my thoughts about it. I know nothing for a certainty; but fear not, something will prompt us to the right, and we have this hope that Father's Spirit will not forsake us. And above all, our Elder Brother has been accepted as an offering for all the sins we may do. He will come to us in purity, and with power to loose the bands of death. He will bring to us Father's law whereby we may overcome the world and its sin." "You said the bands of death. What is death?" "Death is simply the losing of our earthly tabernacles for a time. We shall be separated from them, but the promise is that our Elder Brother will be given power to raise them up again. With them again united, we shall become even as our parents are now, eternal, perfected, celestialized beings." As they conversed, both faces shone with a soft, beautiful light. The joy within was traced on their countenances, and for some time it was too deep for words. Homan was drawn to this beautiful sister. All were pleasing to his eye, but he was unusually attracted to one who took such pleasure in talking about matters nearest his heart. "I must be going," said she. "May I go with you?" "Come." They wandered silently among the people, then out through the surrounding gardens, listening to the music. Instinctively, they clung to each other, nor bestowed more than a smile or a word on passing brother or sister. "What do you think of Lucifer and his plan?" asked she. "The talented Son of the Morning is in danger of being cast out if he persists in his course. As to his plan, it is this: 'If I cannot rule, I will ruin.'" "And if he rule, it will still be ruin, it seems to me." "True; and he is gaining power over many." "Yes; he has talked with me. He is a bewitching person; but his fascination has something strange about it which I do not like." "I am glad of that." She looked quickly at him, and then they gazed again into each other's eyes. "By what name may I call you?" he asked. "My name is Delsa." "Will you tell me where you live? May I come and talk with you again? It will give me much pleasure." "Which pleasure will be mutual," said she. They parted at the junction of two paths. II. "How art thou fallen from heaven, O, Lucifer, son of the morning."--_Isaiah 14:12._