In Dr. J. R. Nichols's interesting book (called Whence? What? Where?) is a sketch worth repeating, for its connection with Christian Science.
In a company of friends, distinguished in the walks of literature and science, the question was asked, if it is possible to form any satisfactory conception of the nature of Spirit and the conditions of a future life, not based in emotion or sentiment. The reply was, that it is possible. In dreams we often have experiences which make clear the possibility of life without physical activity.
It once appeared to the author, in a dream, that he was travelling in France, and, with friends, had rested at a small inn. A thunder-storm arose; the thunder reverberated through the heavens, the lightning flashed, the pattering rain-drops came slowly at first, and finally the storm burst in all its fury. Looking out of the window, it was observed that a company of travelling minstrels had turned into the yard, and sought cover under a farm-wagon at hand. The water ran in the streets, the trees bent to the force of the wind. Soon the cloud passed, the sun shone in the west; a rainbow appeared in the east; the minstrels came out from their place of refuge, and played upon their instruments, under the windows of the inn. A window was opened, and a sense of delight experienced at the scene presented to view. The adjoining fields were visited, while the rain-drops still weighed down the green grass, and the light was reflected from the leaves of beautiful shrubs. Flowers and minerals were collected; and, on returning to the hotel, tea was provided.
