Genessano--I wish Gentol[a:] to observe the person who, at this moment, is ascending the steps of the Transport. He is a Priest of the Inner Sanctuary of the Temple Zim. One of those with whom the Gods commune. One whom we would term a Sensitive. Accompanying him are several Novices, who have not yet made Vows of Consecration. I recall days of long ago, when as youths, Inidor[a:] and I knelt before Priests of this Order, receiving from them instruction relating to our religion. To us they then appeared too holy to share the common fate of Andûman[a:]'s other children. Indeed, outside of their Order, no one ever learns of their death. They disappear and no one questions as to what has become of them. Knowing this, our boyish imagination invested them not only with uncommon sanctity, but, as did our parents, with a certain mystery. You have become aware that usually Spirits can read the thoughts of mortals, and thus I can say that, as a rule the priesthood of Ento, especially the Sensitive Priests, serve sincerely their conception of the Infinite One. It may interest you to learn that the Ento name of this order is Oimû vosten-d[a:] fanûlist[a:], which in your language, De L'Ester says, would mean "consecrated to the mystery." It is true that they are consecrated to a mystery which they wholly misunderstand. Being Sensitives, they commune with Spirits on a level with or possibly above the level of their own spiritual evolvement, who still cling to and encourage them in an observance of the old superstitions. For the reason that a peculiar qualification is requisite, the number of Priests admitted into this Order is quite limited. Of course, we understand that the qualification is the Sensitive condition. De L'Ester--Friends, as the Transport is about to rise, we will embark. George, George, you are incorrigible. Gentol[a:], if you lend yourself to participation in his mischievous pranks you will demoralize those staid Entoans. By your touches on his face and hands, you have so disconcerted that Official that he has quite forgotten the dignity of his position. It is amusing to see him turning this way and that, in a vain quest for the person who has taken such uncourteous liberties. Gentol[a:], with all your gravity you, too, are inclined for a bit of fun. Gentola--It is the old story: George did tempt me and I weakly yielded. That Official looked so serene and so very dignified that I felt a strong desire to startle him. His expression of dismay as he looked at his hands and rubbed his face and found no one near him, who could have touched him, was most laughable. He still looks disturbed and thoughtful. If he could hear me, I would ask his pardon. George--Upon my word, I think he might hear you. I perceived that he is a very sensitive person, else I should not have asked you to touch him. Shall we test him, De L'Ester?