THE GUARDIAN OF THE THRESHOLD SCENE 1 A hall with a ground tone of indigo blue. The antechamber to the rooms in which a Mystic League carries on its work. In the centre a large door with curtain. On each side of the door two pictures which represent, beginning from the right of the stage, the Prophet Elijah, John the Baptist, Raphael, the poet Novalis. There are present, in a lively conversation twelve Persons, who in one way or another take an interest in the activities of the League. Beside them: Felix Balde and Doctor Strader. FOX: A most unusual summons 'tis indeed, That draws us here together at this time. It comes from men, who ever hold that they, From all Earth's other children separate, Are honoured with a special spirit-aim. Their spirit-eyes shall now, however, see That in the world's plan they must be bound close With men whose spirit is unconsecrate; Who face life's fight in their own strength alone. I ne'er felt drawn towards such spirit-ways As find their chief resource in secrecy, And only care to hold fast to sound thought, And to the commonsense of human minds. This Spirit-League by which we now are called Means not through this same call that we should be Initiated in its higher aims. It will thro' mystic dim word-portraiture Keep us but in the Temple's outer courts; And use our powers but as the people's voice-- A cunning plan to strengthen its own will. So shall we merely be the helpers blind Of men who from the spirit heights above, Look down to lead us on with beckoning hand. They do not hold that we are ready yet Even to take one step that might lead on Toward their holy Temple's treasure-house, Or to the spirit-light in which they dwell. When I observe the true state of this league It seems I see but pride and self-deceit Clothed in a prophet's robe and humble dress. And so 'twere surely best to shun each thing That here is offered us in wisdom's garb; That we at any rate may not appear To strive without due proof against the work Which is so highly prized by many men; So would I counsel you at first to hear What aim this wisdom-teacher hath in view And then to follow simple commonsense. Who takes such sense as guide within himself Will not be led astray by tempting lures Which from the Mystic Temple issue forth. MICHAEL NOBLEMAN: