Strange things occur in this sublunary world; but the strangest of all is, that a recognized American scientist of great eminence and learning, a biologist who is the trans-Atlantic Huxley, should have certain letters written to him; more than this, that he should answer them. An enquiring searcher, hungry after truth, begs our friend, Professor Elliott Coues, in the name of his “mystic powers,” to guide him; and, instead of pooh-poohing his correspondent in the name of cold, materialistic, modern Science, the President of the Washington “Gnostic Theosophical Society” writes to him a reply which shows how deeply Professor Coues has studied our philosophy. Both letters will be useful to our English members. They are republished from the Religio-Philosophical Journal.—Ed.
[Here followed the letter written to Dr. Coues, within which there was a single a footnote that appears to be by H.P.B. though it wasn’t accompanied by the usual signature “Ed.” for Editor. We give only a selection of the letter here along with that note.]
. . .
I was surprised to find myself so receptive to the doctrine set forth there, as it was a welcome light to one who had not been able to find peace and trust in creeds, although surrounded by devoted Christian influence from childhood. I have since then read very little of the scientific doctrines of Theosophy, but have found a trust in the teachings of Buddha that has thrown a new light on the words of the Bible, and has brought a growing peace and belief that I have long yearned for, although I have not yet found “the jewel in the lotus.”1
. . .
[The letter was followed by the response from Dr. Coues, which he signed anonymously as “A Psychic Researcher.” This was followed by a note by H.P.B. which addresses Dr. Coues use of a pen-name instead of signing with his own. We give only H.P.B.’s note here.]
This reply speaks for itself, and no theosophist could answer any better and explain the situation with more clearness, or in a more orthodox esoteric spirit. Only Professor E. Coues, being a Theosophist, we are at a loss to understand why he should sign himself so modestly “A Psychic Researcher”? We only hope this is not synonymous with—“member of the S. P. R.” As a Fellow of the T. S. we can only congratulate and thank the Professor; as a member of the S. P. R. we should be doubtful of his motives. We might be really alarmed at the signature, did we not know that, do and say what he may, Prof. Coues’ love of occultism is as great as his mystic powers, and that he can never be untrue to either.—Ed. [H.P.B.]
1. No one can find it unless he is a born Buddha, a saint, or—studies the true Occult, Esoteric doctrines, and tries to become one.