Science and invention make many discoveries, but our mental flights fall far short of the ancients in the discernment of the basic principles of philosophy. In religion we have lost the meaning of the simplest symbols, and, apparently, we do not understand where to place the credit for the principles and precepts we profess to believe and practice. Gautama led the travelers on by the west, while far away to the east was seen the conical head of Orizaba, soaring high into the clouds. Near by was the barren, though beautifully shaped, Malinche Sierras, casting broad shadows over the plains of Tlaxcala. At their feet lay the Pyramid of Cholula, reposing in denuded gardens in the once fairest portion of the plateau of Puebla. “Thou seest but a remnant of former glory,” said Gautama. “We, too, have bowed to the chastening rod. Only such as climbed the long flight of steps to the top of the pillar escaped destruction. Thou, too, art able to bear witness?” It was like probing an old wound, but Yermah answered bravely: “The lash found my tender parts, but I am learning to be content.” “It is to assist thee in this endeavor that I am come. When once thou art ascended to the teocalli heights, thou mayst not return again until thou art fully prepared. Thy next labor is to quash doubtful inspiration. Thou art still leaning on thy earth loves, when thou art commanded to have but one ideal—” “I stand face to face with inner consciousness, and hear the still small voice.” “He hears the bells, but he does not know where they hang,” commented the priests of the Brotherhood, smiling at each other. “Seclusion in rarefied atmosphere, where the whole basin of the earth has been purified, will give peace beyond thy present capacity for understanding,” returned Gautama. “Thy will be done!” responded Yermah. “Thou art a doer of penance, and must be able to say literally, ‘Thy will be done!’” The devotees were nearing the pyramid, when they were met by a delegation of priests, who crowned them with garlands, and conducted them up the first flight of steps. On the truncated face of the terrace was the inscription: BEFORE THE LIGHT WAS OBSCURED THIS MEMENTO FOR GENERATIONS WAS BUILT BY SERPENT KINGS THEY WERE SCATTERED OVER THE EARTH TO CARRY TRUTH AND WISDOM THEY WILL COME AGAIN TO RECEIVE THE TREASURES HIDDEN IN THY BOWELS ALL MEN WILL SPEAK AND HEAR THE I AM I The thoughtful band was allowed to rest at this juncture of their pilgrimage after partaking of some refreshment; but they ascended to the top of the pile in time to see the sunset. Next morning, Yermah called his small aggregation of faithful adherents together, and told them that he had received Akaza’s final commands.