indeed — but what are we to do with civilization?" And I fell to thinking again of this mighty civilization that has made bodily comfort so alluring to man that he has become its slave, while in truth it wears out his brain and his nerves and robs him of the soul's solace and its peace. A violent loathing for it took hold of me, for I found myself in revolt against it, yet unable to retreat backward to primitive nature; and what if I gave my soul free rein while all around me were the worshippers of its idols and the servants of matter, which is its instrument?

It was as if my discerning companion perceived the snare into which she had cast me, and wished to make her purpose plain. So she addressed me first:

— I am nature's fosterling. And you?

— Nature is my mother, though I have forgotten her..

— And her law — what is it? Do you remember?

— Moderation; and their code is growth and ascent.

— And civilization — is that not also growth and ascent?

— Indeed it is..

— Then what would you say to a natural, moderate civilization?!

A Middle Way

This conclusion pleased me; I rejoiced, my care was lifted, and I

marveled at my unlettered teacher. But my joy did not last long before one final question shattered my ease....

— But civilization knows no moderation; it stops at no limit; it has no mercy; it goes on and on...

— It is for you to curb its tyranny and hold it within its fruitful, useful bounds. This is my message to you above all... that you take in hand the reins of the age's temptations and appetites...

"So that if it should happen that

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