Amidst the various topics that were discussed in his presence,
allusions were, of course, made to the inexplicable events that had
lately happened. At those times the words and looks of this man
were objects of my particular attention. The subject was
extraordinary; and anyone whose experience or reflections could
throw any light upon it was entitled to my gratitude. As this man
was enlightened by reading and travel, I listened with eagerness to
the remarks which he should make.
At first I entertained a kind of apprehension that the tale would
be heard by him with incredulity and secret ridicule. I had
formerly heard stories that resembled this in some of their
mysterious circumstances; but they were commonly heard by me with
contempt. I was doubtful whether the same impression would not now
be made on the mind of our guest; but I was mistaken in my fears.
He heard them with seriousness, and without any marks either of
surprise or incredulity. He pursued with visible pleasure that
kind of disquisition which was naturally suggested by them. His
fancy was eminently vigorous and prolific; and, if he did not
persuade us that human beings are sometimes admitted to a sensible
intercourse with the Author of nature, he at least won over our
inclination to the cause.
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