Pagina 44 di 134

Just as the distant chimes pealed forth their announcement of the

midnight hour the Hierophant arose and stepped forth to the front

of the Altar and, at a silent signal, there broke forth, as of

one voice, the low-distant strains of the most enchanting music.

The voices and the tones from the musical instruments were so

harmoniously and wonderfully blended that the result was

magically effective. The strains increased in volume--they seemed

to approach nearer and nearer--until the whole edifice resounded

and re-echoed as though filled with one vast orchestra sounding

forth the Anthem of Creative Life, "We Praise Thee, O God."

This enchanting music continued for some time, then gently died

away until only the breathings of music could be heard, when the

Hierophant raised his hands as if in supplication. The solemn,

awful stillness of the hour was awe-inspiring.

Once, twice, thrice, the voice of the Hierophant resounded

throughout the Sanctuary as he thus spoke to their souls: