Our brother's words have made it clear to you, That we have been induced by solemn signs To call you to the Threshold of our Shrine. The Master soon will speak to you and show The deeper reasons for thus calling you. But first I must, so far as may be meet, Tell you of this great man, whose work hath made Our present union possible today. Thomasius gave himself to painting's art Until he felt an inward spirit-call To take up science as his work in life. His gifts which were so great and so unique Within the region of the painter's art, Were first developed when he passed within The spheres devoted to true mystic lore, These led him to the Master, and, through him, He learnt the first steps in that world of truth Where wisdom teaches spiritual sight. Upborne to spirit-heights and thus infilled With great creative power, he painted then Pictures, which seem indeed like living men. That which would soon have driven other men To strive amain toward the highest goal Upon the beaten track of art--all this Was but a fresh incentive to his brain To use hard-won success in such a way As might prove best for welfare of mankind. He saw full well that spirit-science must First find a firm foundation, and for this The sense for science and strict reasoning Must be released from mania for set form Through contact with an artist mind, and gain The inward strength to realize the truth Of world-relationship in life and deed. And so Thomasius hath offered up, A willing off'ring to humanity, The artist-power, he might have used himself. O friends, read ye aright this man's true soul And understand the call which now we give And hesitate no more to follow it. HILARY TRUE-TO-GOD: