The article under the above caption, in the May C. S. J., to my mind, met the question of the hour as no other contribution has done. It voiced the experience of all who have entered the arena of mental science, and pointedly reiterated the wise directions of our teacher, on the subject of maliciously intentioned mind. Permit me to add my own evidence to the power of that influence.
After I studied Science I passed through very nearly the same experience in the matter of personal shrinking from all connection with the subject, that your contributor mentions. But there are cases that have come under my observation where the effects of mesmerism are even more disastrously apparent: homes have been broken up; children have sickened and died; enmities have been established between life-long friends; ingratitude and hatred have superseded grateful regard and deep affection for their teacher, and all that is known in the world of evil has been accomplished by the false potency of mesmerism, will-power and silent argument. Let me cite one instance in proof.
Near my home was a very lovely family consisting of husband, wife and two young children. There moved into their neighborhood one of these practical pests. He began by turning the thoughts of the wife toward himself and away from her family; succeeded so effectually that within a few months she actually left her pleasant home and little ones to wander in a distant country with the unsuspected mesmerist.
