JUNE
 
Whence are thy wooings, gentle June?
 
3 Thou hast a Naiad's charm;
Thy breezes scent the rose's breath;
Old Time gives thee her palm.
6 The lark's shrill song doth wake the dawn: 
The eve-bird's forest flute
Gives back some maiden melody,
9
Too pure for aught so mute.
The fairy-peopled world of flowers,
Enraptured by thy spell,
 
12 Looks love unto the laughing hours,
Through woodland, grove, and dell;
And soft thy footstep falls upon
15 The verdant grass it weaves;
To melting murmurs ye have stirred
The timid, trembling leaves.
18 When sunshine beautifies the shower,
As smiles through teardrops seen,
Ask of its June, the long-hushed heart,
21 What hath the record been?
And thou wilt find that harmonies,
In which the Soul hath part,
24
Ne'er perish young, like things of earth, 
In records of the heart.
Page 391
 
WISH AND ITEM
 
Written to the Editor of the Item, Lynn, Mass.
 
3 I hope the heart that's hungry
For things above the floor,
Will find within its portals
6
An item rich in store;
That melancholy mortals
Will count their mercies o'er,
 
9
And learn that Truth and wisdom
Have many items more;
That when a wrong is done us,
 
12 It stirs no thought of strife;
And Love becomes the substance,
As item, of our life;
15 That every ragged urchin,
With bare feet soiled or sore,
Share God's most tender mercies, -
18
Find items at our door.
Then if we've done to others
Some good ne'er told before,
 
21
When angels shall repeat it,
'T will be an item more.
Page 392
 
THE OAK ON THE MOUNTAIN'S SUMMIT 
 
Oh, mountain monarch, at whose feet I stand, -
 
3 Clouds to adorn thy brow, skies clasp thy hand, -
Nature divine, in harmony profound,
With peaceful presence hath begirt thee round.
6 And thou, majestic oak, from yon high place 
Guard'st thou the earth, asleep in night's embrace, -
And from thy lofty summit, pouring down
9
Thy sheltering shade, her noonday glories crown?
Whate'er thy mission, mountain sentinel,
To my lone heart thou art a power and spell;
 
12
A lesson grave, of life, that teacheth me
To love the Hebrew figure of a tree.
Faithful and patient be my life as thine;
 
15
As strong to wrestle with the storms of time;
As deeply rooted in a soil of love;
As grandly rising to the heavens above.
 
ISLE OF WIGHT
 
Written on receiving a painting of the Isle
Isle of beauty, thou art singing
 
21
To my sense a sweet refrain;
To my busy mem'ry bringing
Scenes that I would see again.
Page 393
 
1 Chief, the charm of thy reflecting,
Is the moral that it brings;
3
Nature, with the mind connecting,
Gives the artist's fancy wings.
Soul, sublime 'mid human débris,
 
6 Paints the limner's work, I ween,
Art and Science, all unweary,
Lighting up this mortal dream.
9 Work ill-done within the misty
Mine of human thoughts, we see
Soon abandoned when the Master
12
Crowns life's Cliff for such as we.
Students wise, he maketh now thus
Those who fish in waters deep,
 
15
When the buried Master hails us
From the shores afar, complete.
Art hath bathed this isthmus-lordling
 
18 In a beauty strong and meek
As the rock, whose upward tending
Points the plane of power to seek.
21 Isle of beauty, thou art teaching
Lessons long and grand, to-night,
To my heart that would be bleaching
24
To thy whiteness, Cliff of Wight.
Page 394
 
HOPE
 
'T is borne on the zephyr at eventide's hour;
 
3 It falls on the heart like the dew on the flower, -
An infinite essence from tropic to pole,
The promise, the home, and the heaven of Soul.
6 Hope happifies life, at the altar or bower, 
And loosens the fetters of pride and of power;
It comes through our tears, as the soft summer rain,
9
To beautify, bless, and make joyful again. 
The harp of the minstrel, the treasure of time;
A rainbow of rapture, o'erarching, divine;
 
12
The God-given mandate that speaks from above,-
No place for earth's idols, but hope thou, and love.
 
RONDELET
 
15 "The flowers of June
The gates of memory unbar:
The flowers of June
18 Such old-time harmonies retune, 
I fain would keep the gates ajar, -
So full of sweet enchantment are
21
The flowers of June."
JAMES T. WHITE
Page 395
 
TO MR. JAMES T. WHITE
 
Who loves not June
 
3 Is out of tune
With love and God;
The rose his rival reigns,
6
The stars reject his pains,
His home the clod!
And yet I trow,
 
9 When sweet rondeau
Doth play a part,
The curtain drops on June;
12
Veiled is the modest moon -
Hushed is the heart.
 
AUTUMN
 
15
Written in childhood, in a maple grove
Quickly earth's jewels disappear;
The turf, whereon I tread,
 
18
Ere autumn blanch another year,
May rest above my head.
Touched by the finger of decay
 
21 Is every earthly love;
For joy, to shun my weary way,
Is registered above.
24 The languid brooklets yield their sighs,
A requiem o'er the tomb
Of sunny days and cloudless skies,
27
Enhancing autumn's gloom.
Page 396
 
1 The wild winds mutter, howl, and moan, 
To scare my woodland walk,
3
And frightened fancy flees, to roam
Where ghosts and goblins stalk.
The cricket's sharp, discordant scream
 
6 Fills mortal sense with dread;
More sorrowful it scarce could seem;
It voices beauty fled.
9 Yet here, upon this faded sod, -
O happy hours and fleet, -
When songsters' matin hymns to God
12
Are poured in strains so sweet,
My heart unbidden joins rehearse;
I hope it's better made,
 
15
When mingling with the universe,
Beneath the maple's shade.
 
CHRIST MY REFUGE
 
18 O'er waiting harpstrings of the mind
There sweeps a strain,
Low, sad, and sweet, whose measures bind
21
The power of pain,
And wake a white-winged angel throng
Of thoughts, illumed
 
24
By faith, and breathed in raptured song, 
With love perfumed.
Page 397
 
1 Then His unveiled, sweet mercies show
Life's burdens light.
3
I kiss the cross, and wake to know
A world more bright.
And o'er earth's troubled, angry sea
 
6 I see Christ walk,
And come to me, and tenderly,
Divinely talk.
9 Thus Truth engrounds me on the rock,
Upon Life's shore,
'Gainst which the winds and waves can shock,
12
Oh, nevermore!
From tired joy and grief afar,
And nearer Thee, -
 
15
Father, where Thine own children are,
I love to be.
My prayer, some daily good to do
 
18
To Thine, for Thee;
An offering pure of Love, whereto
God leadeth me.
 
"FEED MY SHEEP"
 
Shepherd, show me how to go
O'er the hillside steep,
 
24
How to gather, how to sow, -
How to feed Thy sheep;
Page 398
 
1 I will listen for Thy voice,
Lest my footsteps stray;
3
I will follow and rejoice
All the rugged way.
Thou wilt bind the stubborn will,
 
6 Wound the callous breast, 
Make self-righteousness be still,
Break earth's stupid rest.
9 Strangers on a barren shore,
Lab'ring long and lone,
We would enter by the door,
12
And Thou know'st Thine own;
So, when day grows dark and cold,
Tear or triumph harms,
 
15 Lead Thy lambkins to the fold,
Take them in Thine arms;
Feed the hungry, heal the heart,
18
Till the morning's beam;
White as wool, ere they depart,
Shepherd, wash them clean.
 
COMMUNION HYMN
 
Saw ye my Saviour? Heard ye the glad sound? 
Felt ye the power of the Word?
 
24
'Twas the Truth that made us free,
And was found by you and me
In the life and the love of our Lord.
 
Poems
 
Page 399
 
1 Mourner, it calls you, - "Come to my bosom,
Love wipes your tears all away,
3 And will lift the shade of gloom,
And for you make radiant room
Midst the glories of one endless day."
6 Sinner, it calls you, - "Come to this fountain,
Cleanse the foul senses within;
'T is the Spirit that makes pure,
9
That exalts thee, and will cure
All thy sorrow and sickness and sin."
Strongest deliverer, friend of the friendless,
 
12 Life of all being divine:
Thou the Christ, and not the creed;
Thou the Truth in thought and deed;
15
Thou the water, the bread, and the wine.
 
LAUS DEO!
 
Written on laying the corner-stone of The Mother Church
 
18 Laus Deo, it is done!
Rolled away from loving heart
Is a stone.
21
Lifted higher, we depart,
Having one.
Laus Deo, - on this rock
 
24 (Heaven chiselled squarely good)
Stands His church, -
God is Love, and understood
27
By His flock.
Page 400
 
1 Laus Deo, night star-lit
Slumbers not in God's embrace;
3 Be awake;
Like this stone, be in thy place:
Stand, not sit.
6 Grave, silent, steadfast stone,
Dirge and song and shoutings low
In thy heart
9 Dwell serene, - and sorrow? No,
It has none,
Laus Deo!
12
A VERSE
 
MOTHER'S NEW YEAR GIFT TO THE LITTLE CHILDREN
 
Father-Mother God,
 
15 Loving me, -
Guard me when I sleep;
Guide my little feet
18
Up to Thee.
 
TO THE BIG CHILDREN
 
Father-Mother good, lovingly
 
21 Thee I seek, -
Patient, meek,
In the way Thou hast, -
24
Be it slow or fast,
Up to Thee.
Page 401
 
CHAPTER XII
TESTIMONIALS
 
LETTERS FROM THOSE HEALED BY READING "SCIENCE
 
AND HEALTH WITH KEY TO THE SCRIPTURES"
The Editor of The Christian Science Journal (Falmouth and St.
Paul Streets, Boston, Mass.) holds the original of most of the letters
that authenticate these.
IT is something more than a year and a half since I was
cured of a complication of diseases through reading
"Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures."
Becoming at an early age disgusted with drugs, I learned
hygiene, and practised it faithfully for over twenty years;
then I began to lose all faith in its efficacy, became
greatly discouraged, and, as I had never been cured of
a single ailment, I rapidly grew worse in health. Hear-
ing of this, a dear sister brought me Science and Health.
Her admonition was, "Now read it, E - ; I have heard
that just the reading of that book has been known to heal
the sick."
I had read to, and through, the chapter on Healing and
Teaching,(1) and was so deeply interested that I began
reading that blessed chapter over again, - when I found
I was cured of my dyspepsia, that I could use my strength
in lifting without feeling the old distressing pain in my
side, and also that the pain in the kidneys only came on
(1) Page 292 of the revised edition of 1890.
Page 402
 
at night, waking me out of sleep. Then I began my first 
conscious treatments: of course I followed no formula, 
and I needed none. A cry for help, knowing it would 
be answered; precious texts from the Bible, which had 
already become like a new book to me; sweet assurance 
of faith by the witnessing Spirit; strong logical conclu- 
sions, learned from Science and Health: what a wealth 
of material! Before finishing the book, all tendency to 
my old aches and pains had left me, and I have been a 
strong, healthy woman ever since.
 
My first demonstration with another than myself was 
also before I had finished my first reading. My husband 
was cured of the belief of bilious fever by not over ten 
minutes' treatment; the fever and pain in head and limbs 
disappearing in that instantaneous way as soon as I 
could summon sufficient courage to offer my services in 
this, to us, new but glorious work. He slept soundly 
that night (the treatment was given about 10 A. M.), and 
ate and worked as usual the next day, with no symptoms 
of a relapse then or afterward. That was in March, 1888; 
in the following August I met in one of our Rocky Moun- 
tain berry patches a lady who complained so bitterly that 
I felt compelled to offer her treatment. Her words, when 
I visited her at her home during Christmas week, will 
give some idea of the result: -
 
"Yes, I am doing three women's work, - attending to 
my own and my son's housework, and caring for his wife 
and new-born babe; but I am equal to it, when I think 
of all the Lord has done for me! Why, Mrs. S., I was 
cured with that first treatment you gave me, I know; 
because I went out to gather berries that day and was 
caught in a drenching shower, - and for ten years before
 
Page 403
 
I could not bear the least exposure without suffering 
from those dreadful headaches I told you about, and 
from dysentery, - but that day I had neither. I had 
once been laid out for dead, - lying there perfectly con- 
scious, hearing my friends grieving over me, - but I did 
not want to come to, I suffered so. No, I never have any 
of those ailments. I am a well, hearty woman, - and 
that is not all. I had been seeking religion for more than 
twenty years, but I never knew how Christians felt till I 
told you I was cured that day on the camp-ground." 
 
On the first of this year I was so blessed as to receive 
a course of lessons from one of our teacher's students. 
Now I am only trusting that the time will come when I 
may be enabled to teach others the way of Truth, as well 
as to add to the many demonstrations God has given 
me. - E. D. S.
 
A student of Christian Science was employed in the 
Massachusetts State Prison at Charlestown, to teach the 
prisoners to make shoes. He carried his copy of "Science 
and Health with Key to the Scriptures" and the Journal 
with him, and as he had the opportunity would tell the 
men what this wonderful truth could do for them, set- 
ting them free in a larger and higher sense than they had 
dreamed of.
 
We make extracts from a number of letters that one 
of the prisoners has written to those who are interesting 
themselves in this work.
 
"Editor of The Christian Science Journal: - At the 
prison, once a week, there are Christian papers given 
to the inmates. But none of those papers point out so
 
Page 404
 
clearly the fallibility of the mortal or carnal mind, and 
the infallibility of the divine Mind, as does the teaching 
of Christian Science.
 
"I was strangely blind and stupid. I loved sin, and 
it seemed as though I never would be able to forsake it. 
I did everything that would be expected of one entirely 
ignorant of God.
 
"I also had a complication of diseases. I could not 
begin to describe the medicines I have taken. 
 
"I no longer look for material treatment, but hum- 
bly seek for the divine assistance of Jesus, through the 
way Christian Science has taught me. I am, indeed, 
an altered man. I now have no more doubt of the 
way of salvation than I have of the way to the prison 
workshop.
 
"I am very grateful to the students of Christian Science, 
for the interest they have taken in me and my fellow- 
prisoners. Their letters and books have been of great 
profit, and in accordance with their wish I have done what 
I could for the others.
 
"I gave the Journal to every man who would accept 
it, and related my experience to those who would listen. 
I told them they need go no farther than myself to see 
what the demonstration was; for not only have my eyes 
been healed, but many other ailments have disappeared.
 
"Some of the fellows told me I was becoming reli- 
giously insane, but acting upon your advice, I did not stop 
to argue with those opposed; and I am glad to be able to 
tell you that those who expressed interest were more than 
those who opposed.
 
"The chaplain told me I could keep Science and 
Health until I got through with it. I never should
 
Page 405
 
get through with that book, but, as others were waiting 
for it, I did not like to keep it too long. God bless the 
author!
 
"I need have no fear after leaving here; I feel that 
I can make an honest living. I can honestly add, that 
my bad reputation is largely due to my lack of educa- 
tion. What little I do know, I learned here and in the 
House of Correction. I tell you this, for I feel that I 
must be honest with the kind friends who have done so 
much for me.
 
"Providing I should not be paroled, I shall remain 
here until the 24th of next December. God bless you 
all. - J. C."
 
I am glad to tell how I was healed. Beliefs of con- 
sumption, dyspepsia, neuralgia, piles, tobacco, and bad 
language held me in bondage for many years. Doctors 
that were consulted did nothing to relieve me, and I 
constantly grew worse. Nearly two years ago a lady 
told me that if I would read a book called "Science and 
Health with Key to the Scriptures" I would be healed. 
I told her I would "go into it for all it is worth," and 
I have found that it is worth all. I got the book, and 
read day and night. I saw that it must be true, and be- 
lieved that what I could not then understand would be 
made clear later.
 
After some days' reading I was affected with drowsi- 
ness, followed by vomiting. This lasted several hours; 
when I fell into a sleep, and awoke healed. The good I 
have received, and that I have been able to do in healing 
others, has all come from Science and Health. I received 
some instructions from teachers; but they did me more
 
Page 406
 
harm than good: I asked for bread, but they gave me a 
stone. I held to what I could understand of Science and 
Health; and the truth does not forsake me, but enables 
me to heal others.
 
Last February, I was called to treat a child that the 
M. D.'s said was dying from lung fever; after the third 
treatment the child got up and ran about, completely 
healed. Another child was brought to me, with rupture; 
after the second treatment the truss was thrown away. 
An aged lady was healed of heart disease and chills, in 
one treatment. These cases brought me many more, that 
were also healed.
 
The husband of a lady in the State Lunatic Asylum 
asked me to treat her; she had been for two years and 
a half in the asylum, and though taken home in this time 
once or twice, she had had to be taken back. After two 
weeks of absent treatment, the husband visited her, and 
the doctor reported great improvement during the pre- 
ceding two weeks. At the end of another two weeks I 
went with the husband to the asylum, and the doctor told 
us that she was well enough to go home. The husband 
asked the doctor how it was that she had improved so 
rapidly, and he said that he could not account for it. We 
said nothing about the Christian Science treatment, and 
took the lady home. This was about a year ago, and she 
has remained perfectly well.
 
Many cases as striking as this can be referred to in 
this town, as evidence that Truth is the healer of sickness 
as well as of sin. - J. B. H.
 
No. 1. A lady friend, who was found to have a severe 
attack of dysentery, was assured that such attacks could
 
Page 407
 
be cured without medicine, and advised to take no more. 
She was more than astonished at the result; for in less 
than an hour all pain and other symptoms of the trouble 
ceased, and she felt perfectly well the next day.
 
No. 2. While she was visiting relatives in the country, 
an infant of theirs was attacked severely with croup, 
and appeared to be on the verge of suffocation, giving 
its parents much alarm. The infant was taken in 
the arms of the lady, in thirty minutes was completely 
relieved, went to sleep, and awoke in good health the 
next morning.
 
No. 3. The mother of this child was subsequently 
attacked with a scrofulous swelling on the neck, just 
under the ear, which was very painful and disfiguring; 
the side of the face, also, being badly swollen. It was 
feared that this would develop into and undergo the 
usual phenomenon of abscess, as other similar swellings 
had done previously. She had great faith in the meta- 
physical treatment, because of the experience which she 
had had with her baby, and wrote a letter describing her 
case. This was immediately answered, and absent 
treatment was begun. In twenty-four hours after receipt 
of the letter, to the astonishment of herself and family, 
the tumor had entirely disappeared: there was not a 
trace of it left; although the day before it was fully as 
large as a hen's egg; red, and tender to the touch.
 
These instances are only a few of the many cures which 
have been performed in this way, and they are mentioned 
simply to show what good work may be done by any 
earnest, conscientious person who has gained by reading 
my works the proper understanding of the Principle of 
Christian Science.
 
Page 408
 
What a wonderful field for enlightenment and profit 
lies open to those who seek after Truth. Alas, that the 
feet of so few enter it!
 
Rev. M. B. G. Eddy: - Will you kindly spare me a few 
moments for the perusal of these lines from a stranger, - 
one who feels under a debt of gratitude to you, - for, 
through the divine Science brought to light by you, I have 
been "made whole." I have been cured of a malignant 
cancer since I began to study Christian Science, and have 
demonstrated the truth of it in a number of cases. I have 
only studied your good books, having been unable to take 
the lectures for want of means. I dare not think of these, 
for there is no prospect that I shall be in a position to 
take the course at all. I do not allow myself to com- 
plain, but cheerfully take up my books and study, and 
feel thankful for this light. 
M. E. W., Canon City, Col.
 
Dear Madam: - May I thank you for your book, 
"Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures," and 
say how much I owe to it - almost my very life - at a 
most critical time . . . .
 
If it were not for the heat of your American summers 
(I had nine attacks of dysentery in the last one), and the 
expense, I should dearly like to learn from you person- 
ally; but I must forego this, - at any rate, for the pres- 
ent. If you would write me what the cost would be for a 
course on divine metaphysics, I would try to manage it 
later on.
 
Page 409
 
Meanwhile, I should be grateful if you would refer me 
to any one in this country who is interested similarly, 
for I get more kicks than halfpence in discussing it. 
Your obliged friend, (REV.) I. G. W. BISHOP, 
 
Bovington Vicarage, Hemel Hempstead, 
Herts, England
 
Extract from a letter to Rev. M. B. G. Eddy
 
A gentleman here had hired all the most skilled doctors 
in the United States - nothing helped him. He was a 
ghost to look upon. I told him just to read my copies 
of your books. I talked to him, told him what he could 
do for himself if he but tried. He laughed at me. I was 
willing he should laugh, for it was very unusual for him 
to do this. He had your books two months, and last Sun- 
day he returned them. I wish you could see him: he is 
well. He is happy, and told me he was going to write to 
you for the books for himself this week. - E. E. B.
 
Dear Madam: - I have been a sickly person all my 
life, until a few months ago, and was confined to my 
bed every little while. It was during one of many attacks 
that your book, "Science and Health with Key to the 
Scriptures," was handed me. I read it only a very short 
time, when I arose, well, went out into the kitchen, pre- 
pared a large dinner, and ate heartily of it.
 
I have been up and well ever since, - a marvel to my 
friends and family, and sometimes they can hardly be- 
lieve it is I; and feeling so grateful, I must tell you of
 
Page 410
 
it. I wish everybody in the world would read your book, 
for all would be benefited by it. 
Gratefully yours, ANNA M. SMITH
 
Dear Madam: - About seven years ago I was com- 
pelled to go to an oculist and have an operation performed 
upon my eyes. He fitted me with glasses, which I wore 
for a considerable time, and then removed; but the pain 
and difficulty returned, and I was obliged to go again to 
the oculist, who advised me never to take my glasses off 
again.
 
I continued wearing them for fully five years longer, 
until some time in last January, when, upon reading your 
book, "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures," 
I again took them off. Since that time, though I have been 
in the courts reporting, and reading fine notes frequently, 
I have experienced no difficulty with my eyes. 
Very respectfully, 
WILLIAM A. SMITH, Wilmington, Del.
 
Dear Mrs. Eddy: - We have been studying "Science 
and Health with Key to the Scriptures" for a year, and 
I cannot tell you how much it has done for us; giving us 
health instead of sickness, and giving us such an under- 
standing of God as we never had before. Christian 
Science was our only help two weeks ago, when our baby 
was born. My husband and myself were alone. I dressed 
myself the next day; commenced doing my work the 
third day, and am well and strong. It must be pleasing 
to you to know how much good your work is doing. 
KITTIE BECK, Elmwood, Cass Co., Neb.
 
Page 411
 
I was a helpless sufferer in August, 1883, and had been 
so for many years. The physicians said I had cancer 
of the uterus. I heard of your book, "Science and Health 
with Key to the Scriptures," bought a copy, began read- 
ing it, and a great light seemed to break through the 
darkness. I cried aloud in joy, "This is what I have 
been hungering for, these many years!" I studied it 
closely, and healed myself and several of my friends be- 
fore I had taken instruction of any teacher. 
MRS. S. A. McMAHON, Wyandotte, Kans.
 
I was healed thoroughly of the belief of chronic hepati- 
tis and kidney disease, by reading "Science and Health 
with Key to the Scriptures." I have never, to this day, 
had the slightest return of it. 
J. P. FILBERT, Council Bluffs, Iowa
 
You, dear Mrs. Eddy, have saved my life, through 
Science and Health; and I feel that the patients healed 
through me should give the first thanks to God and to 
you. - MRS. D. S. HARRIMAN, Kansas City, Mo.
 
How grand your book, "Science and Health with Key 
to the Scriptures," is! It is a translation of Truth. No 
amount of money could buy the book of me, if I could not 
get another. No matter what suffering comes, physical 
or mental, I have only to take Science and Health, and 
almost invariably the first sentence brings relief. It
 
Page 412
 
seems to steady the thought. I do not think any student 
old enough to neglect reading it. When we think we are 
advanced far enough to let that book alone, then are 
we in danger. 
MRS. ELLEN P. CLARK, Dorchester, Mass.
 
Many thanks for the good received from your books. 
When I commenced reading them, I was carrying about 
a very sick body. Your books have healed me. I am 
now in perfect health. People look at me with surprise, 
and say they do not understand it; but when they see 
the sick ones made well, they are not always willing to 
believe it. 
MRS. JOSEPH TILLSON, South Hanson, Mass. 
 
Rev. M. B. G. Eddy: - I add one more testimony of 
a cure from reading your book, "Science and Health 
with Key to the Scriptures." Five years ago I lay pros- 
trate with piles and inflammation of the bowels. All 
the coating came off, apparently. A stricture was formed, 
beyond medical reach. I then lived in Chicago; one 
of the best physicians, who made a specialty of treating 
piles, attended me. The pain was relieved, but my 
bowels were inactive, and remained so until New Year's 
eve.
 
I determined to trust all to God, or die before I would 
take any more medicine, as I never had an action unless 
I took a free dose of some laxative. If I forgot to take 
the medicine one night, or allowed myself to be without 
it, I had a terrible sick headache for two or three days, 
and terrible backache. I never had backache at any
 
Page 413
 
other time, and the piles would be so much inflamed, in 
two days' time, that I could hardly tell where I suffered 
the worst.
 
Since I have learned to trust all to God, I have not 
had the least trouble with the piles, nor one twinge of 
the backache. I have an easy action of the bowels each 
morning. It was five days after I resolved to leave medi- 
cine alone, before a natural movement took place; and 
ever since I have been perfectly regular. It was a great 
effort for me to take that step, for I knew I was running 
the risk of throwing myself back into all misery, and 
perhaps into a worse state than before. By reading 
Science and Health, I learned that God was able to save 
the body as well as the soul, and I believed His promises 
were for me. 
MATTIE E. MAYFIELD, Des Moines, Iowa
 
For the Cause of Truth, I submit the following testi- 
monial for publication; may it bring one more, at least, 
into the fold of divine Science ! The truth, as it is stated 
in "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures," 
has done much towards making our home the abiding- 
place of peace and harmony. I now write of the wonder- 
ful demonstration of Truth over the birth of my baby 
boy, two weeks ago. Sunday, September 23, we went 
for a long drive of three hours; at night I retired at the 
usual hour; toward morning I was given a little warn- 
ing; when I awoke at seven o'clock, the birth took place. 
Not more than ten minutes after, I ate a hearty break- 
fast, and then had a refreshing sleep; at ten o'clock 
walked across the room while my bed was dressed; at
 
Page 414
 
twelve took a substantial dinner; most of the afternoon 
sat up in bed, without any support but Truth; at six 
in the evening dressed myself and walked to the dining- 
room, and remained up for two hours. Next morning 
I arose at the usual hour, and have kept it up ever since, 
- was not confined to my bed one whole day. The 
second day was out walking in the yard, and the third 
day went for a drive in the morning and received callers 
in the afternoon. If it had not been for the presence of 
my young hopeful, it would have been hard to believe 
that there had so recently been a belief of a birth in the 
house; but then, I was sustained by Love, and had no 
belief of suffering to take my strength away. Before 
baby was two weeks old, I cooked, swept, ran the sew- 
ing machine, etc., assisting with the housework gen- 
erally. How grateful I am for the obstetrics of this 
grand Science! Mothers need no longer listen to the 
whispering lies of the old serpent, for the law of mortal 
mind is broken by Truth. 
MRS. DORA HOSSICK, Carrolton, Mo.
 
My wife and I have been healed by reading your book, 
"Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures." We 
both feel very grateful to you.
 
Five months ago my wife gave birth to a child, with- 
out pain or inconvenience, has done all the housework 
since, and has been every minute perfectly well. Neither 
she nor the child have been ill, - as was constantly the 
case with former children, - so we have thought it right 
to name the child Glover Eddy.
 
We have been reading Science and Health nearly 
 
Page 415
 
two years, and have sold several copies to others. We 
are reading the Journal also this year. 
Yours respectfully, JOHN B. HOUSEL, Lincoln, Neb.
 
Dear Mother: - The most blessed of women! Oh, 
how I long to sit within range of your voice and hear the 
truth that comes to you from on high! for none could 
speak such wondrous thoughts as have come from your 
pen, except it be the Spirit that speaketh in you. 
 
Two years ago last October, while laboring under a 
great strain of care and anxiety in regard to financial 
affairs, I heard of Christian Science. I borrowed "Sci- 
ence and Health with Key to the Scriptures," and began 
to read. I bless God that I was driven to it by such an 
extremity. After reading some one hundred and fifty 
pages, I was convinced that it was the truth for which 
I had searched during twenty years. While I was read- 
ing the chapter on Imposition and Demonstration, (1) I 
was healed of endometritis and prolapsus uteri of over 
twenty years' standing, pronounced incurable by emi- 
nent physicians. Professor Ludlam, the dean of Hahne- 
mann Medical College, of Chicago, Ill., was one of my 
doctors.
 
Before I was healed, to walk seven or eight blocks 
would so fatigue me that it would take me a week to 
recover. I now started out and walked, and was on my 
feet all day and for several succeeding days, but felt no 
weariness from my labors.
 
I felt, after being healed, I must have a Science and 
Health of my own. I had no money to buy it, so earned
 
(1) Page 234, revised edition of 1890.
 
Page 416
 
it by getting subscribers for the Journal. It has gone 
with me everywhere I have been. I have been well ever 
since.
 
I had suffered from bodily ailments, but they were 
nothing compared to my mental trials. Grief, hatred, 
jealousy, and revenge had well-nigh bereft me of reason. 
I had lost a home of plenty, been reduced to almost abject 
poverty, and had become a cheerless woman, - could 
not smile without feeling I had sinned.
 
All my griefs and sorrows are now turned to joy, and 
my hatred is changed to love. "Glory to God in the 
highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men." I 
read Science and Health, and all your other books, to- 
gether with the New Testament, every minute I can 
get. - E. B. C., Omaha, Neb.
 
I must add one more to your great pile of letters, to 
tell you what your book, "Science and Health with Key 
to the Scriptures," has done for me and my family. More 
than a year ago, my husband was suffering from an injury 
received about a year previous, and he went to Mrs. B. for 
treatment. His shoulder had been fractured, his collar- 
bone broken, and he had sustained internal injuries. Sev- 
eral M. D.'s had attended him, but had given him very 
little relief. Mrs. B. treated him a short time, and he 
received much benefit. He bought Science and Health. 
From reading it, I was cured of a belief of chronic liver 
complaint. I suffered so much from headaches and con- 
stipation, and other beliefs, that I seldom ever saw a well 
day; but, thanks to you and divine Principle, I now 
seldom ever have a belief of feeling badly. 
 
Page 417
 
November 4th, last, I was confined. I was alone, 
because I knew no one whose thought was in harmony 
with Science. I thought I could get along without help, 
and I did. My little girl was sleeping in the same room 
with me, and after the birth she called a woman who 
was asleep upstairs, to take care of the baby. This 
woman was much frightened; but, on seeing how com- 
posed I was, she got over her fright. I was sitting up 
in bed, holding the child, and feeling as well as I ever 
did in my life. I never had seen a Scientist nor been 
treated, but got all my ideas from Science and Health. 
My baby was born on Sunday morning, and I got up 
Monday at noon, and stayed up. I never got along so 
well with a baby as I did with this one. 
 
I am very thankful for the knowledge of Science I 
have gained through your book. I want so much to be 
a Scientist; but we are very poor. My husband is a 
brakeman on the railroad; and I have very little educa- 
tion. There is comfort in the thought that, if I can't be 
a Scientist, my children may be. 
Yours with much love, 
C. A. W., Lexington, Mo.
 
In the February Journal it appears there is some one 
who says that "Science and Health with Key to the 
Scriptures" is hard to understand, and who thinks she 
can explain it. Perhaps my experience with Science 
and Health may help some one who might otherwise 
take up this thought, and so be led away from the truth. 
After reading and studying it for some time, and talking 
to the Scientists I met in my travels, the thought came 
to me, "Why not try these truths on yourself ?" I did
 
Page 418
 
so, and to my surprise and great joy I found immediate 
relief. Dyspepsia (the trouble of most commercial travel- 
lers), catarrh, and many lesser beliefs, left me, so that in 
a short time I was a well man, and by no other means 
than trusting to the Saviour's promises as explained in 
Science and Health. This took place while I was travel- 
ling about the country.
 
On my return home, I gave my wife treatments. In 
many instances the blessing came before the treatment 
was finished, and often we proved that only a thought 
of the power of Truth was sufficient to give relief. 
 
One Sunday morning, soon after my return, a friend 
called and asked if I could give him anything to relieve 
his wife, who, he said, had been suffering for some days 
with rheumatism in her shoulder, so severely that she 
could neither dress alone nor comb her hair. I told him 
that the only medicine we had in the house was Chris- 
tian Science. He laughed at the idea; but before he 
left, he asked if I would give his wife a treatment. I 
told him I was very young in Science, but if she wished 
it, I would. He went home, but returned immediately, 
saying she wished me to come. Then I asked help from 
the fountain of Truth, and started for my first treatment 
to be given away from home. When I left their room 
fifteen minutes later, she was shaking her hand high 
above her head, and exclaiming, "I am all right; I am 
well!" That was in November, 1887, and she has had 
no return of the belief since.
 
A friend told me that his son, twelve years old, had 
catarrh so badly that his breath was very offensive, his 
throat troubled him all the time, and that he had been 
deaf since he had the measles. In less than three weeks
 
Page 419
 
both beliefs vanished. This was a case of absent treat- 
ment. I could give you other cases, but I think I have 
said enough to prove that Science and Health is not 
hard to understand, for my work has all been done with- 
out my ever attending class. 
H. H. B., New York City
 
A lady, with no other instructor than "Science and 
Health with Key to the Scriptures," has demonstrated 
beyond many who have taken numerous lessons. Per- 
suaded, through her reading, of the allness of God, - 
and the perfectness of idea, - she would know nothing 
else. A daughter, so badly affected by poison oak (ivy) 
that for weeks death was feared from blood-poisoning, 
had recovered with a terrible dread of that plant. As 
the next season's picnic time drew near, she was regret- 
ting that she dared not go again. The mother, with her 
new-born faith in the Science of being, said, "Certainly 
you can go, for nothing can harm you." Assured by 
these words, the daughter went, and in her rambles fell 
into a mass of the dreaded plant; but trusting to the 
word of Truth, she thought nothing of it till one who 
knew of her previous trouble said, in her mother's pres- 
ence, "See, her face is showing red already." But the 
mother was prompt in denial and assurance. Next morn- 
ing, old symptoms were out in force, but they yielded 
at once and finally to the positive and uncompromising 
hold on Truth. Another daughter, that was thought 
too delicate to raise, from bronchial and nervous troubles, 
always dosed with medicine and wrapped in flannels, 
now runs free and well without either of these, winter
 
Page 420
 
and summer. The mother was recently attacked by 
mesmerism from the church that believed she was in- 
fluencing her daughter to leave. She overcame by the 
same unwavering trust in God, seeing Truth clearer than 
ever before. Her demonstrations come through no form 
of treatment, but by letting the Spirit bear witness, - 
by the positive recognition and realization of no reality 
but ever-present good.
 
The other night her husband was attacked with an 
old belief, similar to one that some time before had ended 
in a congestive chill which the doctor thought very seri- 
ous, and from which he had been a long time in recover- 
ing. The wife simply recognized no reality in the belief, 
and, seeing only perfect being, felt no fear. She did 
nothing, - no "treating" in the usual sense. There is 
nothing to do but to understand that all is harmony, 
always. He felt the presence that destroys the sense of 
evil, and next morning - there was nothing left to re- 
cover from.
 
A lady, while doing some starching, thoughtlessly put 
her hand into the scalding starch to wring out a collar. 
Recalled to mortal sense by the stinging pain, she imme- 
diately realized the all-power of God. At once the pain 
began to subside; and as she brushed off the scalding 
starch, she could see the blister-swelling go down till 
there was but a little redness to show for the accident; 
absorbed in her thankfulness, she mechanically wrung 
out the collar with the same hand, and with no sense of 
pain, thus verifying the demonstration. This woman 
(not reading English) only knows Science as she has re- 
ceived it from her practitioner during the treatments 
received within the last month. So much has come to
 
 
Page 421
 
her from Spirit through her loyalty to Christ, in so far 
as she could understand.
 
A case of ulcerated tooth and neuralgic belief would 
only partially yield after repeated treatments, till it was 
discovered that the patient was antagonizing Truth by 
holding the thought that her old remedy, laudanum, 
would give relief; treated from this standpoint, relief was 
immediate and final.
 
One morning after Rev.- had been preaching to 
thousands for several days, he told them that he had 
never felt such a sense of depression nor had so little 
showing of results. Some Scientists hearing this, at once 
saw his trouble. He had been fearlessly exposing and 
denouncing evil; and it had turned on him, till the mes- 
merism was likely to overcome him entirely, for he did 
not understand the seeming power. The effect of the 
silent word to uplift and sustain, was very manifest that 
evening in his preaching, and was a beautiful demon- 
stration of Science. He probably only felt Spirit-inspira- 
tion as he had not before, without a thought as to what 
had broken the evil spell; but we never know the what, 
or when, or where, of the harvest we can sow - "God 
giveth the increase." - E. H. B., Sacramento 
 
 
I had two German patients who were anxious to have 
you publish "Science and Health with Key to the Scrip- 
tures" in their language. I advised them to buy it and 
try to read it. They commenced reading, and now can
 
Page 422
 
read all of Science and Health, but do not read well any 
other book or paper, and they do not need to. With 
great love. - M. H. P.
 
 
I sold three copies of "Science and Health with Key 
to the Scriptures" to friends, not long ago. One of them, 
fifty years of age, said to me, "I never had one day's 
sickness in my life; but after reading Science and Health 
I found that I was bruised and mangled, from the crown 
of my head to the soles of my feet. I have been reach- 
ing after something that, before reading Science and 
Health, seemed to me unattainable;" and with tears 
in her eyes, she rejoiced in the God of her salvation. 
Did not Jesus say, "If these should hold their peace, the 
stones would immediately cry out"? 
P. L., Lexington, Ky.
 
 
For eight years I suffered terribly with my eyes; I 
could not read fifteen minutes without the most agoniz- 
ing sick headache. Oculists called it a case of double 
vision, and said that the only chance for a cure lay in 
cutting the muscles of the eyes. This was done, but the 
pain was worse than before. One of the most famous 
oculists of New York said I would simply have to endure 
it for life, as it was a case of severe astigmatism. 
 
I suffered so that my health gave way. A friend spoke 
to me of Christian Science, but I scoffed at the idea. 
Later on, in desperation, I asked her to lend me "Science 
and Health with Key to the Scriptures," thinking I might 
be able to read five minutes a day in it. I opened the
 
Page 423
 
book at the chapter on Physiology, and began. Time 
passed unnoticed: every page seemed illuminated. I 
said, "This is everything or nothing; if everything, then 
you need no glasses." I took off the heavy ground glasses, 
and went on. What a terrible headache I had the next 
morning! but I fought it with the truth laid down in the 
book. I said again, "This is everything or nothing," 
and the truth triumphed. The headache ceased, but I 
felt miserably. I recalled what was said about chemicali- 
zation, and persevered.
 
In four days my eyes were well; I read as many hours 
a day as I pleased; my strength returned. I conquered 
one belief after another, until now, strong and well, I 
meet every belief with confidence. "I will fear no evil: 
for Thou art with me." For two years I have realized 
the peace and confidence which the knowledge that God 
is all-powerful and always present alone can give. Feel- 
ing a great desire to spread Christian Science, that it 
may do the good to others that it has to me, not only 
physically but spiritually, I ask if you have any mission- 
aries in the work. Being a member of the Episcopal 
Church, I have always sent what I could to help foreign 
missions through that church. Will it do the most good 
to continue so doing, as our foreign missionaries are de- 
voted men, or have you Christian Science missionaries 
who devote their lives to the work?
 
An answer addressed to me, or published in the Journal, 
would help one who is seeking to do right. 
Yours sincerely, K. L. T.
 
I do wish to add my testimony of being healed by 
reading "Science and Health with Key to the Scrip-
 
Page 424
 
tures." I had been an invalid for over twenty years, 
and had given up all hope of ever being well again. I 
had read the book about six weeks, when it seemed 
I was made all over new, and I could "run, and not be 
weary; and . . . walk, and not faint." I did not under- 
stand it, but it was the savior from death unto life with 
me; I have remained well ever since I was healed, - 
more than five years ago. I commenced to treat others 
as soon as I was born anew into the kingdom of Truth. 
My patients were healed right along, before I had taken 
lessons in a class, and they have remained well to this 
day.
 
Christian Science has made me as young as a girl of 
sixteen. If this should meet the eye of any sufferers 
who may be led to go and do as I did, they will be 
healed. - N. A. E.
 
Language is inadequate when bearing grateful testi- 
mony to the book "Science and Health with Key to the 
Scriptures." By its simple reading, I was healed of ills 
which baffled the skill of specialists and all curatives 
that love and money could command. After eighteen 
years of invalidism, and eight years of scepticism, with- 
out hope, with no God, - except a First Cause, - I was 
given up to die.
 
A loving friend told me of this book, which was soon 
brought; and thirty-five pages of the first chapter were 
read to me that evening. The next morning I got up, 
walked, and read the book for myself.
 
I mention the chapter, for the reason that nearly two 
years have passed since those wonderful words of Life
 
Page 425
 
were first read to me, and still their sacred sweetness is 
ever the same. Now I exclaim, God is All! 
MRS. MARY A. R.
 
It is impossible for me to keep still any longer. In 
1885, when I had not known a well day in five years, 
"Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" was 
placed in my hands by a dear lady who insisted upon 
my reading it, saying she believed it would heal me. Like 
many, I was afraid of it, - until I learned what it really 
was. The friend's words were verified. I was healed 
by the reading of the book, and for one year continued 
to read nothing whatever but the Bible and Science 
and Health. They were my constant study. Through the 
understanding gained, that God is All, I came to demon- 
strate with great success, and with but one thought, - 
for I knew nothing about giving a "treatment;" I wish 
I knew as little now, for I believe that healing in Christian 
Science is to be done in a moment. I became anxious to 
learn more, to study with the teacher, but funds would 
not allow, - and I thought to substitute a course in 
Chicago, perhaps. Every time I would speak of it, how- 
ever, my dear mother would say, "You have Science and 
Health and the Bible, and God for your teacher - what 
more do you need? If I could not go to the teacher, I 
would not go to any one."
 
If I had only heeded the blessed counsel of Truth!
 
I went to Chicago, however, so full of confidence in 
Christian Science that I supposed every one who had 
studied with Mrs. Eddy must be right. Unfortunately, 
I took my course with a spiritualist who had been through
 
Page 426
 
two of her classes; discovered my mistake, and went to 
a mind-cure, - only to find the mistake repeated. Being 
an earnest seeker for Truth, I tried again to go to the 
Massachusetts Metaphysical College; but it was un- 
certain when there would be a class, so I took a course 
with one of Mrs. Eddy's students in Boston. The dark- 
ness now rolled away. Science and Health once more 
revealed the light to me as of old.
 
All this time, the mind-curers had me in view, and 
were sending me reading-matter; but, praise the Lord! 
Truth is victorious.
 
My dear brothers and sisters, let us be safely guided 
by the counsels of our Mother, in Science and Health! 
I, for one, am astounded that I was so led astray; but I 
did it all through ignorance, - and the sincere desire to 
know the truth and to do it, saved me. 
Your sister in truth, R. D.
 
I have been reading Science and Health for one year 
and a half, and have had some wonderful demonstra- 
tions. People here are antagonistic to the Science, and 
tell me that I am a "fit subject for the asylum." Physi- 
cians threaten me with arrest, also, but I walk straight 
on, knowing well in whom I trust. 
E. I. R., Wauseon, Ohio
 
A little over two years ago, while living in Pittsburgh, 
my wife and I had Christian Science brought to our at- 
tention. We were at once interested, and bought a copy 
of "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures."
 
Page 427
 
At the time, Mrs. A- was suffering with severe belief 
of astigmatism of the eyes. She had been treated by a 
number of specialists, during seven years, the last being 
the late Dr. Agnew of New York, who prescribed two 
sets of glasses. He said that he could do nothing more 
for her, as the trouble was organic; that she must wear 
glasses constantly; that if she attempted to go without, 
she would become either blind or insane. The glasses 
were in operation, and still life had become a burden 
from constant pain, when Christian Science came to our 
relief. Mrs. A- had not in years read for two con- 
secutive minutes, and could not use her eyes in sewing 
at all. The lady that told us of the Science, insisted that 
she could read Science and Health, which she actually 
did, - reading it through twice, and studying it carefully 
each time. After the second reading, there came the 
thought that she did not need the glasses, and she at once 
abandoned them, and went about her usual duties. In 
about two weeks from that day the eyes were perfectly 
healed, and are well and strong to-day. 
E. G. A., New York City
 
My Dear Teacher: - Yours without date is at hand. 
Could you know out of what depths of material débris 
the first reading of the first volume of Science and Health, 
six years ago last December, lifted me, you would be- 
lieve it had always been "all I could ask." It was only 
words from the pen of uninspired writers that gave me 
pain. As the revelation of the All-good appeared to 
me, all other books, all forms of religion, all methods 
of healing, to my sense became void. Chronic beliefs of
 
Page 428
 
disease of twenty years' standing, dimness of sight from 
the belief of age, all disappeared instantly; indeed, 
material life seemed a blank. The why? I could not 
explain, but this I did know, in this realm of the real I 
found joy, peace, rest, love to all, unbounded, unspeak- 
able. Human language had lost its power of expression, 
for no words came to me; and in all this six years of bliss 
I still have found no words to tell my new-found life in 
God. The most chronic forms of disease have some- 
times been healed instantly and without argument. With 
great love and gratitude. - M. H. P.
 
I take great comfort in reading "Science and Health 
with Key to the Scriptures," and will cling firmly to 
the light I have, knowing that more will be given me. 
While in Salt Lake City, I met at the hotel a lady who 
had been an invalid all her life. I talked with her about 
Christian Science, and loaned her Science and Health, 
together with the Journals I had with me. She had 
become very much discouraged, having lost all faith 
in doctors and medicine, and did not know where to 
turn next. She became very much absorbed in the book, 
feeling she had found salvation. She at once laid aside 
the glasses she was wearing, and now reads readily with- 
out them. She and her husband have accepted this truth 
beautifully. - MRS. G. A. G., Ogden, Utah 
 
On a trip through Mexico I met a woman who told me 
that, although she did not believe in Christian Science, 
on her way from Wisconsin, her home, she had bought
 
Page 429
 
a copy of Science and Health. When she reached M-, 
she met a minister from the North, whom the M. D.'s 
had sent there because of consumption, - they had given 
him two months to live. She gave him Science and 
Health, and while doing so, felt it was all absurd. The 
minister read it, and was healed immediately. Was not 
this a beautiful demonstration of the power of Truth, 
and good evidence that Science and Health is the word 
of God?
 
I had while in Mexico a glorious conquest over the 
fear of smallpox. There were hundreds of cases in some 
small towns where we were. After the fear was cast 
out, never a thought of it as real came to me or my hus- 
band, or troubled us in any way. On the street I met 
three men who were being taken to the pest-house with 
that loathsome disease. - F. W. C.
 
A lady to whom I sold "Science and Health with Key 
to the Scriptures," writes me: "My longing to know 
God has been answered in this book; and with the answer 
has come the healing." She is an intimate friend of 
Will Carleton, the poet. This is doing much good in 
the social circles. He has for a long time been interested, 
but his wife has declared it could not heal, and was not 
Christian. She will now be obliged to acknowledge this 
healing, for the lady above referred to has been, to sense, 
a great sufferer. - P. J. L.
 
Some of the experiences given in the Journal have 
been so helpful to me, I have been moved to give to its
 
Page 430
 
readers a little experience of my own, which occurred 
when I first began the study of "Science and Health with 
Key to the Scriptures." 
 
I had already been healed of sick headache, almost 
instantly, by declaring that I was God's child, and, as 
God is perfect, His child must be perfect also. This had 
given me great happiness, and a quiet, peaceful state of 
mind I never had known before. My family did not 
seem to see anything good in Christian Science, but to 
me it was sacred.
 
One Monday morning, I awoke feeling very ill indeed. 
The morning was warm and sultry. I thought I cer- 
tainly could not wash that day; but when I went down- 
stairs, I found my daughter had made preparations for 
such work. I thought, "Well, if she feels like washing, 
I will not say anything; perhaps I shall get over this." 
After breakfast I went about my work, thinking I could 
lean against the tub and wash with more ease than I 
could do up the morning work. I tried to treat myself 
as I had done before, - tried to realize that "all is Mind, 
there is no matter;" that "God is All, there is nothing 
beside Him," but all to no purpose. I seemed to grow 
worse all the time. I did not want my family to know 
how badly I was feeling, and it was very humiliating to 
think that I must give up and go to bed. 
 
All at once these questions came to me, as though 
spoken by some one, taking me away from my line of 
thought entirely: How is God an ever-present help? 
How does He know our earnest desires? Then, with- 
out waiting for me to think how, the answer came in 
the same way, God is conscious Mind. Instantly the 
thoughts came: Is God conscious of me? Can I be
 
Page 431
 
conscious of Him? I was healed instantly: every bad 
feeling was destroyed. I could see that the morning 
had not changed a particle, but I was oblivious of the 
weather. It did not seem that I had anything more to 
do with that washing. It was finished in good season, 
while I was "absent from the body, and present with the 
Lord."
 
That was the beginning of the battle with sin and 
self, but at the same time it was the dawning of the resur- 
rection. Since then (over four years) I have had many 
experiences, some of which seem too sacred to give to the 
world. False literature has caused me much suffering; 
sorrow has visited my home; but, through all this, the 
light that came to me on that Monday morning - that 
new and precious sense of omnipresent Life, Truth, 
and Love - has never left me one moment. It was the 
light that cannot be hid. 
MRS. H. B. J., Cambridge, Ill.
 
HEALING
 
Four years ago I learned for the first time that there 
was a way to be healed through Christ. I had always 
been sick, but found no relief in drugs; still, I thought 
that if the Bible was true, God could heal me. So, when 
my attention was called to Christian Science, I at once 
bought "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures," 
studied it, and began to improve in health. I seemed 
to see God so near and so dear, - so different from 
the God I had been taught to fear. I studied alone night 
and day, until I found I was healed, both physically and 
mentally.
 
Page 432
 
Then came a desire to tell every one of this wonder- 
ful truth. I expected all to feel just as pleased as 
I did; but to my sorrow none would believe. Some, 
it is true, took treatment and were helped, but went 
on in the old way, without a word of thanks. But still 
I could not give up. I seemed to know that this was 
the way, and I had rather live it alone than to follow 
the crowd the other way. But as time passed, I had 
some good demonstrations of this Love that is our 
Life.
 
I am the only Scientist in Le Roy, as yet, but the good 
seed has been sown, and where the people once scoffed 
at this "silly new idea," they are becoming interested, 
and many have been healed, and some are asking about 
it. One dear old lady and I study the Bible Lessons 
every Tuesday afternoon. She came to call, and as we 
talked, she told me of her sickness of years' standing; 
and was healed during our talk, so that she has never felt 
a touch of the old trouble since.
 
One lady, whom I had never seen, was healed of con- 
sumption in six weeks' treatment. She had not left 
her bed in four months, and had been given up by many 
physicians. 
MRS. FLORENCE WILLIAMS, Le Roy, Mich.
 
I like the Journal and Quarterly, and have many of 
Rev. Mary B. G. Eddy's works, which make my little 
world. I have a great desire to learn more of this Love 
that casts out all fear, and to work in this Science. It is 
the greatest pleasure I have, to talk this truth, as far as 
I understand it, to any who will listen; and am waiting 
for others to learn of this blessed Science. 
 
Page 433
 
I give my experience in reading "Science and Health 
with Key to the Scriptures" aloud to a little child. A 
letter published in the Journal, written by a lady who 
had relieved a two-year-old child by reading to her, first 
suggested this course to me. At the time, my little one 
was a trifle over a year old. I was trying to overcome 
for him a claim which, though not one of serious illness, 
was no small trial to me, because of its frequent occur- 
rence and its seeming ability to baffle my efforts. One 
day as I sat near and treated him, it occurred to me to 
read aloud. I took up one of the older editions of Science 
and Health lying near, began at the words, "Brains 
can give no idea of God's man," and read on for two 
or three paragraphs, endeavoring - as the writer suggested 
- to understand it myself; yet thinking, perchance, 
the purer thought of the babe might grasp the underlying 
meaning sooner than I. So it proved. Before the dis- 
turbance felt by me had been calmed, the weary expres- 
sion on the face of the child was replaced by one of evident 
relief.
 
When putting him to sleep, I had often repeated the 
spiritual interpretation of the Lord's Prayer. One night 
he was very restless, fretful, and cried a great deal, 
while I seemed unable to soothe him. At last I per- 
ceived that he was asking for something, and it dawned 
upon me that the Prayer might be his desire. I began 
repeating it aloud, endeavoring to mean it also. He 
turned over quietly, and in a few minutes was sweetly 
sleeping.
 
The last time my attention was specially called to 
this subject, was about a year after the first experience. 
Various hindrances had been allowed to keep me from
 
Page 434
 
Science and Health all day; and it was toward even- 
ing when I recognized that material sense had been 
given predominance, and must be put down. I soon felt 
drawn to read the book. The little boy had seemed 
restless and somewhat disturbed all day; but without 
thinking specially of him, rather to assist in holding my 
own thought, I began to read aloud, "Consciousness 
constructs a better body, when it has conquered our 
fear of matter." In a minute or two a little hand had 
touched mine, and I looked down into a sweet face fairly 
radiant with smiles. I read it over. The child was evi- 
dently delighted, and was restful and happy all the rest 
of the day. - A. H. W., Deland, Florida
 
A week ago a friend wrote to me on business, and in 
the letter stated that his wife had been very ill for six 
weeks. At once the thought came, "Tell her to read the 
chapter on Healing, in Science and Health." In my 
answer to his letter I obeyed the thought. A few days 
after, I had occasion to call; found her much better, and 
reading Science and Health. They had done as directed, 
and had received the promise. - R., New York 
 
The first allusion to Christian Science reached me in 
an article I read on that subject. Later, a friend came 
to visit me, bringing a copy of "Science and Health with 
Key to the Scriptures." For two weeks I read it eagerly; 
then I sent for a copy for myself. When it came, I 
began to study it. The Bible, of which I had had but 
a dim understanding, began to grow clearer. The light
 
Page 435
 
grew brighter each day. Finally, I began to treat my- 
self against ills that had bound me for twenty-eight 
years. At the end of six weeks I was healed, much to the 
amazement of all who knew me. From that time, my 
desire was to help others out of their suffering, and to 
talk this wonderful truth. After a while I took the class 
lectures, and am doing what I can to spread this healing 
gospel. - A. M. G.
 
Rev. Mary B. G. Eddy 
My Dear Leader: - I will try to tell you how I was 
led to Christian Science. Heretofore I have not tried to 
lead a Christian life, but have always firmly believed 
that if one truly desired and needed help, he would get 
it from God by asking for it. I suffered, as I think but 
very few have, for fourteen years; yet I did not think it 
sufficient to warrant me in asking God to help me, until 
I gave up all hope elsewhere, - and this occurred in the 
spring of 1891. I then thought that the time had come 
to commit myself to God. Being at home alone, after 
going to bed I prayed God to deliver me from my tor- 
ments, this sentence being the substance of my prayer, 
"What shall I do to be saved?" 
 
I repeated that sentence, I suppose, until I fell asleep. 
About twelve o'clock at night, I saw a vision in the form 
of a man with wings, standing at the foot of my bed, - 
wings partly spread, - one arm hanging loosely at his 
side, and one extended above his head. At the same 
time there was a bright light shining in my room, which 
made all objects shine like fire. I knew where I was, 
and was not afraid. The vision (for such it was), after
 
Page 436
 
looking directly at me for some time, spoke this one sen- 
tence, and then disappeared: "Do right, and thou shalt 
be saved."
 
I immediately tried to live according to that precept, 
and found relief in proportion to my understanding. 
I soon after learned of Christian Science. One of my 
brothers in Kansas, having been healed by it, persuaded 
me to buy "Science and Health with Key to the Scrip- 
tures," wherein I learned that the above precept was the 
key to Christian Science; that it is Christian Science to 
do right, and that nothing short of right living has any 
claim to the name.
 
I have been learning my way in Christian Science 
about one year, and have been successful in healing. I 
have all of your books, and am a subscriber for the Jour- 
nal and Quarterly Bible Lessons. Some of the cases 
I have treated have yielded almost instantly. I am a 
stranger to you, but I have told you the truth, just as it 
occurred. Yours in truth, 
SAM SCHROYER, Oklahoma City, Okla.
 
I desire to make known the great good I have re- 
ceived by reading the blessed book "Science and Health 
with Key to the Scriptures." Four years have now 
passed since I began to read it. It has been my only 
healer and teacher, as I never have had an opportunity 
to go through a class; but I find that the "Spirit of truth" 
will teach us all things if we will but practise well what 
we know. After two years and a half of study, I thought, 
as many beginners think, that I had travelled over the 
worst part of this narrow path.
 
Page 437
 
Soon after, it came about that I was separated from 
every one who had ever heard of Christian Science; and, 
as I lived in the country, no one came to visit me for 
about eight months. At first, I thought the Lord had 
wrought a great evil. I had no one to talk to, but would 
take my Science and Health every morning, before go- 
ing about my work, and read; yet mortal mind would 
say, "You can do no good, with no one to talk with." 
At last, one morning after listening to the serpent's voice, 
I looked out at the little wild flowers as they waved to 
and fro; they seemed to be a living voice, and this is what 
they said: "On earth peace, good will toward men." 
There was also a mocking-bird that would sit on the 
house and sing. For the first time, I realized that divine 
Love was the only friend I needed. Soon after, I sent 
the Journal to my nearest neighbor, by her little son 
who came to play with my children. Afterward she 
told me that when she began to read it she said to the 
family, "God has sent this book to me." Calling to see 
her one evening, I found her suffering from heart dis- 
ease. I began talking to her about Christian Science, 
and in less than an hour she declared herself healed. 
She is to-day a happy woman. I would say to all suf- 
fering ones, that if you will buy a copy of this wonderful 
book, "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures," 
by the Rev. Mary Baker G. Eddy, and study it, and 
practise its teachings, you will find it a pearl of great 
price. 
MRS. FANNIE MEEKS, Bells, Grayson Co., Texas
 
On my arrival in New York, last July, my brother 
spoke to me of "Science and Health with Key to the
 
Page 438
 
Scriptures;" and, coming in contact with a number of 
Scientists, all wishing me to procure the book, I did so. 
I read it through in the same manner in which I would 
read any other book, to find out the contents. 
 
Before I got to the end, having partly understood its 
meaning, I began to demonstrate over old physical trou- 
bles, and they disappeared. A belt that I had worn for 
over twelve years, I took off, and threw overboard (being 
a seafaring man).
 
Up to that time I had been a constant smoker, and 
chewed tobacco; but I gradually lost all pleasure in it, 
and now look upon it with disgust.
 
I was brought up in the Lutheran doctrine, and when 
a boy received a good knowledge of Scripture; but I 
never understood it until explained to me in Science and 
Health. H. F. WITKOV, 
27 Needham Road, Liverpool, England
 
 
In a letter received a few days ago from one of my 
absent patients, there was such a glorious testimonial 
for Science and Health that I feel as if I ought to send 
it in for the pages of our Journal, trusting it may be the 
means of helping many others to turn for help and com- 
fort, in every emergency, to this book.
 
In her letter, this lady says: "A few days since, I had 
quite a serious claim attack me. I left my mending, took 
Science and Health and read all the afternoon and even- 
ing; when all trace of the claim was gone, and I have 
felt nothing of it since."
 
When this dear woman applied to Truth, she was a 
great sufferer. Her gratitude knows no bounds. Many
 
Page 439
 
chronic ailments, which have bound her with heavy 
chains for many years, are being removed one by one. 
It is such a sweet privilege to lead her out of this bond- 
age of flesh, for she turns with such childlike trust and 
obedience to the book, and looks to that for aid in every 
trial and affliction. It is beautiful to see, and is a rebuke 
to some of us older in the thought, who depend so much 
on personality.
 
She is far away, in a little country town where Science 
has hardly been heard of; but she is so happy with her 
book that she has no desire for other reading. 
 
I have always tried to show her that God was with her 
there as well as with us here; that in Him she possesses 
all; and that with her Bible and Science and Health no 
harm can befall her, for the remedy for every ill she has 
at hand. - MRS. C. H. S., Woburn, Mass.
 
I have been an interested reader of the Journal for 
some time, and thought I would contribute my mite by 
giving one of my latest demonstrations in Christian 
Science.
 
An accident occurred as follows: Officers, while hunt- 
ing for a criminal in thick underbrush, fired upon each 
other through mistake, and it was found that one was 
shot six times; two of the bullets passing through the 
abdomen, and one through the hips.
 
Two physicians who examined him had no hope. He 
asked me to help him. I took the case. Relief came 
almost instantly. I treated him for eight days; the 
fifth, I heard one of three physicians, who held a private 
consultation over my patient, ask him this question:
 
Page 440
 
"Mr. F- , have you not got one bit of pain?" I was 
rewarded by hearing him answer, "No, sir; not the least 
bit." No one else seemed to have any hope for him; but 
I held firmly to the thought that God is an ever-present 
help, never doubting, and Christian Science has again 
won a victory. Many people call it a miracle, and it 
has set them to thinking.
 
The harvest is now ripe and ready for the reaper. I 
wish some good Christian Science teacher would come 
and help us. I can help in my own way, but am not 
advanced enough to lead and teach others. I have only 
studied Science and Health a little over a year, and have 
not been through a class yet. 
S. G. SCHROYER, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 
 
I became interested in Christian Science through be- 
ing healed. I had no faith in doctors, therefore would 
not consult any; but felt that something must be done, 
or I would soon follow a brother and sister who had 
passed on with the same claim. In my extremity I thought 
of the "great Physician," and took my case to Him, and 
realized that He alone could help me.
 
A relative, finding I would not consult a doctor or 
take any drug, gave me "Science and Health with Key 
to the Scriptures" to read; saying that, although a dear 
friend thought she was greatly helped by a Christian 
Scientist, he himself had no faith in that kind of treat- 
ment, and had no use for the book.
 
I had heard of the people called Christian Scientists, 
and of their textbook, Science and Health, but knew 
nothing about either; yet I wanted to know, and took
 
Page 441
 
the book gladly, and was soon deeply interested in it. 
It was a revelation to me. Although I could only under- 
stand it in part, I knew it was the truth, and the truth 
was making me free. I felt that I had been bound and 
in prison; and that now, one after another, the bonds 
were being broken, and I was lifted into the pure air 
and light of heaven. I was healed before I had read 
half-way through the precious volume; for I was obliged 
to read slowly, and some passages over and over again. 
When I came to page 304, line 10 (47th edition), I then 
and there felt that I must add my testimony, though 
already there were "heaps upon heaps;" but since then, 
I have tried to put the thought of those dark days away 
from me, and only refer to them now in the hope that 
some one who is bound may be released and brought 
into the light of divine Love, which alone can heal, and 
make us "every whit whole." 
L. M. C., Brooklyn, N. Y.
 
I have been thinking for a long time that I would give 
my experience in coming out of sickness into the knowl- 
edge of health by reading "Science and Health with Key 
to the Scriptures."
 
I was sixty years old (as we mortals count time) be- 
fore I ever read one word of Christian Science. On July 
2, 1890, I met a Scientist who gave me a pamphlet called 
"Christian Healing," by the Rev. Mary B. G. Eddy. 
At that time I was almost helpless. This lady advised 
me to buy Science and Health. I did so, and tried to 
read it; but my hands were so lame I could not hold it, 
and I let it fall to the floor so often that it became un- 
bound, and I laid it away and resumed my medicine.
 
Page 442
 
The following May, the Scientist visited in this city 
again. She advised me to burn all my medicines and to 
lean unreservedly on the promises of God. I took her 
advice; had my book rebound in three volumes, so I 
could hold it more easily, and now read it constantly, 
reading nothing else. Sometimes I would suffer intensely, 
then I would get a little better; then more suffering, and 
so on, until August, 1891, when all pain left me. I have 
had no return of it, and no disagreeable sensations of any 
kind, and am perfectly well in all respects. 
 
Surely, if we will but trust our heavenly Father, He is 
sufficient for us. I hope some one of, or near, my age, 
who is afflicted, may read this and take courage; for I 
have demonstrated the fact that, by reading Science and 
Health, in connection with the Bible, and trying to follow 
the teaching therein, one in the autumn of life may be 
made over new. I am so thankful to God for my great 
recovery!
 
That remark of Sojourner Truth helps me to a better 
understanding of Life in God: "God is the great house 
that holds all His children; we dwell in Him as the fishes 
dwell in the seas." - P. T. P.
 
Until about one year ago, I had no thought of investi- 
gating Christian Science. Previous to that time it had 
been presented to me in such a way that I condemned it 
as unreasonable and absurd. At that time it was pre- 
sented to me in a more reasonable light. I determined 
to divest myself of prejudice (as far as was possible) 
and investigate it, thinking that if there was anything 
in it, it was for me as well as others; that I surely needed
 
Page 443
 
it, and if I found no good in it, I could then with some 
show of reason condemn it.
 
I had been reading Science and Health about two 
weeks, when one morning I wanted my cane. It had 
been misplaced; and while looking for it the thought 
came to me, If all is Mind, I need no cane. I went out 
without it, have not used it at all since, and do not need 
it as a support; but for a time I did miss it from my 
hand. I had used it for years as a support to a very 
lame back.
 
I before went much stooped, because it pained me to 
straighten up; but from the time I laid my cane aside I 
straightened up, free from pain. Occasionally I have a 
slight pain in my back, but it is nothing to compare with 
what it had been.
 
In a short time after laying my cane aside, my pipe 
and tobacco went out into the street and have not re- 
turned. I had smoked for sixty-five years, and chewed 
for fifty. I have no desire for either of them; in fact, 
the smoke is offensive to me.
 
Many times before I had tried to quit, but the desire 
for it was so strong that I would go back to it; and when 
I tried to "taper off," I would make the taper end the 
longest.
 
Many other physical claims have disappeared, and it 
is a common thing for acquaintances to say when they 
meet me, "You look better than I have seen you for 
years; what have you been doing?" My reply is, I not 
only look better, but feel better, and am better; and 
Christian Science has done it.
 
With all this, I seem to have very little spiritual under- 
standing of the truth; am endeavoring to get more, but
 
Page 444
 
it seems slow. If there is a shorter road to it than I have 
found, I should like to be directed to it. 
J. S. M., Joplin, Mo.
 
Four years ago I was healed by reading "Science and 
Health with Key to the Scriptures." The third day, 
one of my worst claims gave way. The book was full of 
light, and disease vanished as naturally as darkness gives 
place to light, although it was about six months before 
I was entirely healed.
 
Seeing this truth in its purity, showed me where to 
take my stand; and in defending it I have the prince of 
this world to meet. Mortal mind has even called me 
crazy; but what a blessing to know the nothingness of 
that mind, and that divine Principle governs all its ideas, 
and will place each where it belongs!
 
If our Master was persecuted, can his servants hope to 
escape? I know in some degree what Paul meant when 
he said he rejoiced in tribulations, "for when I am weak, 
then am I strong."
 
Many claims that have baffled the skill of the physi- 
cians have disappeared through my understanding of 
Truth. What a blessing that we can break the bread of 
Life to others, and so add to our crown of rejoicing! 
S. E. R., Kansas City, Mo.
 
A dear little six-year old boy of my acquaintance was 
invited by his teacher, with the rest of his class in kinder- 
garten school, to attend a picnic one afternoon. He did 
not feel that he wanted to go; seemed dumpish, and
 
Page 445
 
according to mortal belief was not well; at noon, he said 
he wanted to go to sleep.
 
His mother took him in her lap and began to read to 
him from "Science and Health with Key to the Scrip- 
tures." Very soon he expressed a wish to go to the 
picnic, and did go. His father, happening to pass the 
place where the little ones were spending the afternoon, 
and somewhat surprised to see him playing, as happy 
and active as any there, called to him and asked, "How 
long did you sleep?" The little fellow replied, "I did 
not sleep at all; mamma read to me from Science and 
Health, and I was well in a minute." - K. L. H.
 
One evening I was calling on a neighbor, and some- 
how the subject of Christian Science came up. I asked 
her what it was, and what they believed. 
 
She then told me of a friend of hers who had become 
a Christian Scientist. This friend had passed through 
great sorrow and disappointment; her health had failed 
her, and her cheerful disposition had entirely changed; 
she could talk of nothing but her troubles, and was a 
most unhappy woman. A few years ago she visited my 
neighbor, who, greatly surprised at her changed appear- 
ance, - for she was happy and well, - asked where her 
troubles were. The reply was, "I have no troubles. I 
have found true happiness; for I have become a Chris- 
tian Scientist."
 
I became deeply interested, and asked if the students 
in Clinton had public meetings on Sundays. She replied 
that they had, and told me where they were. 
 
The next Sunday, I went. All was quiet when I en-
 
Page 446
 
tered, for they were engaged in silent prayer. Soon they 
repeated the spiritual interpretation of the Lord's Prayer. 
I shall never forget the impression that made on me; all 
the next week I heard the leader's voice repeating the 
first sentence.
 
I was invited to come again, and did so. One of the 
ladies loaned me "Science and Health with Key to the 
Scriptures," and offered to get me one; which she did 
the next week. I have studied it in connection with the 
Bible. I have greatly improved in health, having had 
only one attack of a physical trouble which caused great 
suffering, since that time, and that was a year ago.
 
At first, I did not think anything about being healed, 
or of my physical infirmity. I only loved the sacred teach- 
ing. How true, that God's word does not return unto 
Him void! The words of truth that my neighbor's 
friend spoke to her, were what first awakened me. If 
the one who first hears it does not receive it, it goes to 
some one who is ready, and it takes root and bears fruit. 
MRS. G. H. I., Clinton, N. Y.
 
About three years ago I was near death's door with 
various troubles; also, was seventy years old. I had a 
desire to know something of Christian Science. 
 
I procured the textbook, and studied it with a desire 
to know the truth. At first all was dark; but light began 
slowly to come, and at the end of three months I found 
my physical claims all gone and my eyesight restored. 
At the end of three months more, I had gained thirty- 
five pounds in weight.
 
I had been an infidel, and the change from that came 
more slowly; but now I know that my Redeemer lives,
 
Page 447
 
and I am able by divine grace to make very convincing 
demonstrations. - J. S., Rudd, Iowa
 
For a long time I have felt that I must in some way 
express my great debt of gratitude for Christian Science. 
I know no better way to do so than to give an account, 
through the Journal, of some of the many blessings I 
have received as a result of our Leader's untiring toil 
and self-sacrificing love for suffering mortals, in giving 
to us the wonderful book, "Science and Health with 
Key to the Scriptures."
 
When I first heard of Christian Science, about six 
years ago, I was satisfied that it was the religion of Christ 
Jesus, because Jesus had so plainly said, "And these 
signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall 
they cast out devils; . . . they shall lay hands on the 
sick, and they shall recover."
 
I had been a church-member since my girlhood, but 
was not satisfied that my belief would take me to 
heaven, as I did not have these "signs following" - and 
this had always troubled me; so, when I heard that an 
old acquaintance living at a distance had not only been 
raised from a dying condition to health, but her life had 
been changed and purified through Christian Science, I 
could hardly wait to know more of this Christlike religion 
which was casting out evils and healing the sick. I 
searched every bookstore in the city for Science and 
Health, at last found a copy, and was delighted to get hold 
of it, but little realized what a treasure it was to be to me 
and my household.
 
At first it was like Greek to me, and I could not un-
 
Page 448
 
derstand much of it, but gleaned enough to keep on 
reading, and longed for some one to talk to me of it.
 
After I had been reading it about a year's time, I 
suddenly became almost blind. I knew no Scientist to go 
to, so went to physicians; they told me that my case was 
hopeless, that it was certain my sight never could be 
restored, and the probabilities were that I would soon be 
totally blind.
 
I felt sure that Christian Science would help me if I 
could only fully understand it; but there was no one 
from whom I could ask help, that I knew of. I gave all 
the time that I could use my eyes to studying Science 
and Health, - which at first was not more than five 
minutes two, and sometimes three, times a day; gradu- 
ally my sight returned, until it was fully restored.
 
During this time God and the "little book" were my 
only help. My understanding was very limited; but like 
the prodigal son, I had turned away from the husks, 
towards my Father's house, and while I "was yet a great 
way off" my Father came to meet me. When this great 
cloud of darkness was banished by the light of Truth, 
could I doubt that Christian Science was indeed the 
"Comforter" that would lead us "into all truth"?
 
Again I lay at the point of death; but holding stead- 
fastly to the truth, knowing, from the teaching of this 
precious book, that God is Life and there is no death, I 
was raised up to health, - restored to my husband and 
little children, all of whom I am thankful to say are now 
with me in Science.
 
I had no one to talk with on this subject, knew no one 
of whose understanding I felt sure enough to ask for 
help; but I was careful from the first not to read or
 
Page 449
 
inquire into anything except genuine Christian Science, 
and how thankful I am for it! Since then, I have been 
through a class.
 
I cannot express in words what Christian Science has 
done for my children, or my gratitude that the light of 
Truth has come to them in their innocent childhood, - 
healing all claims of sickness, and showing us how to over- 
come the more stubborn claims of sin. - L. F. B.
 
It is a little over one year since a very esteemed friend, 
of this city, invited me to partake of the heavenly manna 
contained in the revelation of "Science and Health with 
Key to the Scriptures." I had, up to that time, been 
for fifteen years a victim of hip-joint disease; this even- 
tually confining me to my bed, where I had been ten 
months when the "book of prophecy" was opened for 
me. I was not long in finding the light I needed, - that 
gave "feet to the lame," enabling me now to go, move, 
and walk, where I will, without crutch or support of any 
description, save the staff of divine Science. 
 
In proportion as my thoughts are occupied with the 
work in Science, does the peace and joy come inwardly 
that transforms the blight of error externally. 
T. G. K., Tacoma, Wash.
 
I wish to acknowledge the blessings which Christian 
Science has brought to me through reading "Science and 
Health with Key to the Scriptures." My first demon- 
stration was over the tobacco habit; I had smoked for 
at least fifteen years: I have now no desire for tobacco.
 
Page 450
 
I was then healed of two claims which had bound me 
for ten years. My prayer is that I may be so filled with the 
truth that I can carry the message to my brother man. 
F. W. K., Angelica, N. Y.
 
I take advantage of the great privilege granted us, 
to give my testimony for Christian Science through the 
pages of our much loved Journal. The blessing has 
been so bountiful that words can but poorly express my 
gratitude.
 
A little over six years ago, a relative came from Den- 
ver, Colorado, to visit us. She was a Christian Scientist, 
having herself been healed of a severe claim that M. D.'s, 
drugs, and climate could not relieve; and her husband 
having been in the drug business, she had had a chance 
to give them a fair trial.
 
My sister-in-law did not talk much on the subject, as 
I remember; but what was better, lived the truth before 
us as she realized it.
 
One day (a blessed day to me), I ventured to open 
Science and Health, and read the first sentence in the 
Preface. I closed the book, wondering what more it could 
contain, this seeming to cover the whole ground. When 
my sister-in-law returned to the room, I asked her if I 
might read it. Her reply was, "Yes; but begin at the 
first."
 
That night, after all had retired, I began to read; 
within forty-eight hours I destroyed all drugs, appli- 
cations, etc., notwithstanding the fact that my husband 
had just paid fifty dollars to a travelling specialist for 
part of a treatment. With the drugs disappeared ail-
 
Page 451
 
ments of nine years' standing, which M. D.'s had failed
to relieve.
 
I now understand that my sudden healing was due to 
my turning completely away from material methods; 
for I was convinced I should never use them again. I 
realized that God was my health, my strength, my Life, 
therefore All. As I read Science and Health, I won- 
dered why others had not discerned this truth, - physi- 
cians, ministers, and others who had devoted their lives 
to benefit mankind. Yes! why? Because they had 
been seeking in the opposite direction to Truth, namely, 
for cause and effect in matter, when all cause and effect 
are mental.
 
I mention physicians and ministers, because one class 
claims to heal disease, the other claims to heal sin; but 
Christian Science heals physically and morally, - it con- 
tains all; "its leaves are for the healing of the nations." 
L. B. A., Memphis, Tenn.
 
I was for years a great sufferer. I called doctor after 
doctor, getting no help. The last one, after treating me 
for one year, told me he would give me one year more 
to live.
 
One evening a near neighbor came in and asked me 
to go home with her; and as it was only a few steps, I 
did so.
 
She took up a new book, Science and Health, read me 
a few chapters, and then gave me some Christian Science 
tracts, which I read, and one of them I almost committed 
to memory.
 
I bought a copy of "Science and Health with Key to
 
Page 452
 
the Scriptures," and studied it carefully. I am healed 
of all those claims which troubled me so long. I was 
lifted out of darkness into light.
 
M. J. P., Burns, Oregon
 
Chicago, March 19, 1894 
Rev. Mary B. G. Eddy, Boston, Mass.: - I wish to 
thank you for the true light that was revealed to me by 
reading your book, "Science and Health with Key to the 
Scriptures," and at once adopting its teaching. It was 
one year ago to-day that I put on the armor, determined 
never to surrender to the enemy; and you may know I 
have looked forward to this day with a great deal of 
pleasure, to show my friends that the Lord is constantly 
with me to help overcome all evil.
 
Some said, when I first started in this new path, "Wait 
until you get one of your stomach attacks, and you will 
change your mind." For months they have waited, and 
are beginning to see the truth in my actions, that speak 
for themselves, and show that all is Mind. 
 
For nearly thirty years I had been a sufferer from 
throat and stomach troubles; bronchitis, dyspepsia, gas- 
tralgia, and gastritis, etc., were the terms applied by 
my physicians. About eighteen years of that time I was 
engaged in the drug business, had constant opportunities 
for consulting the best physicians, and took such medicine 
as I felt assured would cure me; but only to be disap- 
pointed each time.
 
The last few years I had been living on oatmeal crackers 
and hot water; suffering more or less all the time, and 
could not eat anything else without suffering intense
 
Page 453
 
pain. I felt as though I could not live many months 
more, and was getting ready to give up the fight 
when a dear friend and neighbor, Mrs. Corning, left 
a copy of Science and Health at our home. At first I 
did not care to read it; having been educated, for many 
years, in the belief that medicine can cure all diseases, I 
could not conceive of anything else to cure the sick.
 
One Sunday I had the curiosity to know something 
about this Christian Science, and read Science and Health. 
The more I read, the more interested I became, and 
finally said to myself, "I will try it." I took a large 
porous plaster and four thicknesses of flannel off my 
stomach, and threw them in the corner, saying, "Now 
it shall be Mind over matter; no more matter over Mind." 
I filled a large basket full of bottles containing medicine, 
and put it in the shed (where all medicine should be). 
From that day I have eaten of everything on the table, 
and all I wished. Coffee was my worst enemy, and I 
had not tasted it for years without suffering untold agony. 
Several days passed before I cared to drink it; then, one 
morning, I told my family I would commence to use it; 
I did, and have used it every day since, and don't know 
that I have a stomach, as it never has caused me any 
trouble since that morning.
 
I am happy to say I have not used a drop of any kind 
of medicine, internally or externally, from that day, and 
I know that all is Mind. I read the Bible and Science 
and Health nearly every day, thanking the Lord for the 
years of suffering which have led me to the truth as taught 
by our Saviour; for I feel it was only through its victory 
over the suffering that the truth could have been revealed 
in my case.
 
Page 454
 
I have had some demonstrations to make over error, 
but each time it becomes easier. God is ever present 
and ready to help me, and I trust in Him; my faith is 
planted on a rock that is immovable. 
Yours truly, FRANK S. EBERHART
 
P. S. If you think this letter, or any part of it, will help 
some one out of darkness into the light of Truth, you 
are at liberty to have it published.
 
Having so many occupations and interruptions, I have 
not found time to read "Science and Health with Key to 
the Scriptures" sufficiently, but will not on that account 
delay thanking you for its excellence. 
HENRY W. LONGFELLOW, Cambridge, Mass.
 
I am an old-school practitioner; have served as surgeon 
in two European wars; practised medicine for about 
ten years in New York city and Brooklyn, until my health 
compelled me to relinquish my profession. I became 
a victim of the morphia habit, taking daily thirty grains 
of that drug. My physicians declared me consumptive, 
and abandoned all hopes of recovery. Shortly after 
this I made the acquaintance of a student of the author 
of "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures," 
who presented me with her works; and as drugs did me 
no good, I stopped taking any whatever, save morphia, 
without which I thought it impossible to get along, and 
to my astonishment began to gain in flesh, and my am- 
bition returning in proportion. I finally felt that I would 
stop my loathsome habit of morphia-eating, and did so
 
Page 455
 
in one week, without any discomfort worth mentioning. 
For a test I administered one fourth of a grain of morphia 
to the aforesaid Scientist, hypodermically, without the 
slightest physiological effect, clearly proving the existence 
of metaphysical laws. I have read Science and Health 
carefully, and consider my present improved health solely 
due to mental influence. 
OTTO ANDERSON, M. D., Cincinnati, Ohio 
 
The profound truths which you announce, sustained 
by facts of the immortal life, give to your work the seal 
of inspiration - reaffirm in modern phrase the Christian 
revelations. In times like these, so sunk in sensualism, 
I hail with joy your voice, speaking an assured word for 
God and immortality, and my joy is heightened that these 
words are of woman's divinings. 
A. BRONSON ALCOTT, Concord, Mass.
 
I was sick six years; tried many physicians and reme- 
dies, but received no lasting benefit from any of them, 
and concluded I must remain sick the rest of my life. 
In this condition, I purchased the book "Science and 
Health with Key to the Scriptures," read it, was deeply 
interested, and noticed that my health began to improve; 
and the more I read the book, the better I became in 
health. This I can say truly: it did more for my health 
than all the physicians and remedies that I had ever 
tried. - DR. S. G. TODD, 11 School St., Newburyport 
 
I had been a nervous sufferer for nine years; had a 
belief of incurable disease of the heart, and was subject
 
Page 456
 
to severe nervous prostration if I became the least weary. 
I was told that if I should read your books they would 
cure me. I commenced reading them: in ten days I was 
surprised to find myself overcoming my nervous spasms 
without the aid of medicine; and ever since then I have 
been improving, and I now can walk twenty miles without 
fatigue, and have been able to rise above all ailments. 
MRS. JULIA A. B. DAVIS, 
Central Village, Westport, Mass.
 
I would inform my friends and the public, that after 
twelve years of sickness I am restored to health; and, 
with renewed vigor and keen enjoyment, take up the 
pleasures and duties of life once more; all labor now 
seems less arduous, and all happiness more perfect. To 
Christian Science, as taught in "Science and Health with 
Key to the Scriptures," I am indebted for my restoration. 
I can cordially recommend this book to all. 
ROSE A. WIGGLESWORTH, Lowell, Mass.
 
When I commenced reading "Science and Health with 
Key to the Scriptures," I could sit up but a very short 
time, and could not eat the most simple food without 
great distress. In a few days there was a great change, 
and I have been growing better ever since. 
E. D. RICHARDSON, Merrimac, Mass.
 
I have not been as well for years as I have been since 
reading "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures," 
all of which I impute to its teaching. 
(MRS.) MARY A. WILLIAMS, Freeport, Ill. 
 
Page 457
 
Had been in ill-health for several years; had been 
confined to my bed three months, when I got your book 
and read it. At first I was unable to read it myself, and 
others read it to me, and the truth revealed in your book 
restored me to health. 
(COL.) E. J. SMITH, Washington, D. C. 
 
I have been perusing with great interest your work 
on metaphysical Science, for the last four months, and 
to great advantage; you make the path to health so plain, 
that a wayfaring man, though a fool, cannot err therein. 
R. I. BARKER, Bethel, Me.
 
"Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" "is 
a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path;" your 
missiles of Mind have battered down the illusions of sense, 
allowing Life to appear an eternal monument, whose 
spirited hieroglyphics, Truth and Love, unlike those cut 
in marble, shall grow more luminous to consciousness as 
sickness, sin and death fade out of belief. 
ARTHUR T. BUSWELL, 
Office of Associated Charities, Cincinnati, O.
 
"Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" is 
beautiful in its form of thought and expression. I have 
perused it with interest. Your book tends to lead us to 
new thoughts and practices in the healing art, and for 
many maladies I have no doubt the treatment your ex- 
cellent work introduces will be the only remedy. 
(COL.) ROB'T B. CAVERLY, Centralville, Mass. 
 
Page 458
 
Undoubtedly "Science and Health with Key to the 
Scriptures" is the greatest and grandest book ever pub- 
lished; and that by pulpit and press it will be so ac- 
knowledged, is only a question of time. Yours has, 
indeed, been a pioneer work, and will be; and I believe 
that you, of all the millions, are selected and chosen be- 
cause of your peculiar fitness for this great work - this 
grand work of opening the gates and leading the way, 
that fallen humanity may follow step by step; reach up 
to Christ, and be made whole! That all this should be 
systematized and proven with mathematical precision, - 
that there can be no guesswork or quackery, - is simply 
astounding. Science and Health has given me a new 
impetus heavenward. 
M. A. HINKLEY, Williamsport, Pa.
 
The book "Science and Health with Key to the Scrip- 
tures" is the most wonderful work that has been written 
in the past five thousand years. I wish you could get 
ten dollars per copy. I am of the opinion that I can heal 
the sick on its basis, from reading the work. 
H. D. DEXTER, M. D., Dundee, N. Y.
 
Rev. Mary B. G. Eddy's book, "Science and Health 
with Key to the Scriptures," has been duly catalogued 
and placed on our shelves for use. In behalf of the trus- 
tees, let me convey cordial thanks to the earnest-minded 
author for this interesting contribution. My own idea 
is, that the power of Mind or Spirit is supreme in char- 
acter, and destined to supremacy over all that is adverse 
to divine order. WILLIAM H. KIMBALL, 
Librarian New Hampshire State Library 
 
Page 459
 
I am reading the work, "Science and Health with 
Key to the Scriptures," for the third time; and I am 
convinced of the truth of the Science of which it treats, 
- instructing us how to attain holiness of heart, purity 
of life, and the sublime ascendency of soul over body. 
C. CLEMENT, McMinnville, Warren Co., Tenn. 
 
I was sick for a number of years with what some of 
the most skilful physicians pronounced an incurable 
disease. The more I tried to get help, the worse I be- 
came, until a life of pain and helplessness seemed un- 
avoidable. Two years ago I heard of "Science and 
Health with Key to the Scriptures," began reading it 
and trying to live up to its teachings. At first, my be- 
liefs were so strong I made but little progress; but grad- 
ually my disease gave way, and finally disappeared, and 
to-day I am a well woman. I cannot express the grati- 
tude I feel for what the light shining through the teachings 
of that book did for me. 
(MRS.) EMILY T. HOWE, Norway, Me.
 
I have been reading "Science and Health with Key 
to the Scriptures," and feasting-like a starving, ship- 
wrecked mariner, on the food that was to sustain him 
- on truths which ages to come will appreciate, under- 
stand, and accept. Many of the theories which at first 
appear abstruse and obscure, at length become clear and 
lucid. The candle of intellect requires occasional snuff- 
ing to throw the clear light of penetration on the page. 
(MRS.) S. A. ORNE, Malden, Mass.
 
Page 460
 
The mother of a little girl about eight years old told 
me her child was having a severe attack of cold, and 
was delicate and easy to take cold. I told her the little 
girl would be all right; not to give her any medicine, but 
read Science and Health to her. When I next saw the 
mother, she told me the little girl was entirely well; that 
the cold had all disappeared, and with it a claim of night- 
sweats that the child had been under for more than a 
year. The little girl had been out sliding down-hill in 
the snow a number of times; had her feet very wet, but 
it did not affect her at all. They were all pleased, - 
especially the child; her face was beaming with hap- 
piness and smiles. This is just one little instance of the 
good that comes from reading Science and Health. 
T. W. H.
 
OPINIONS OF THE PRESS
 
This is, perhaps, the most remarkable book on health, 
in some respects, which has appeared in this country. 
The author evidently discards physiology, hygiene, mes- 
merism, magnetism, and every form of medication, bath- 
ing, dieting, etc., - all go by the board; no medicine, 
manipulation, or external applications are permitted; 
everything is done through the mind. Applied to cer- 
tain conditions, this method has great value: even the 
reading of the author's book has cured hopeless cases. 
The author claims that her methods are those used by 
Christ and his apostles, and she has established a church 
and school to propagate them. - Herald of Health, N. Y. 
(M. L. HOLBROOK, Publisher)
 
Page 461
 
The Christian Scientists claim that the power of heal- 
ing is not lost, and have supported that claim by induc- 
ing cures astonishingly like those quoted from the New 
Testament. And even more good they hope to achieve, 
as this power which they possess is better understood 
and the new light gains strength in the world. Experi- 
ence has taught us that the nearer we approach to the 
source of a report of miraculous power, the smaller does 
the wonder grow. In the instance of the Christian Sci- 
entists, the result has been rather the reverse; if third 
parties have related a remarkable circumstance, the person 
of whom the fact was alleged has been found to make 
the assertion still stronger. - Boston Sunday Globe
 
"Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures," by 
Mary Baker G. Eddy, President of the Massachusetts 
Metaphysical College, is a remarkable publication, 
claiming to elucidate the influence of mentality over 
matter. Mrs. Eddy announces herself as the discoverer 
of this metaphysical Science, and receives students, to 
whom she imparts so much of her metaphysics as their 
minds are capable of receiving. The volumes are a 
vigorous protest against the materialism of our modern 
scientists, Darwin, Huxley, Tyndall, etc. Her Science 
of Mind was first self-applied: having been ill and treated 
by doctors of the various schools without benefit, she 
discovered the grand Principle of all healing to be God, 
or Mind. Relying on this Principle alone, she regained 
her health, and for the last sixteen years has taught 
this theory to others, and has healed the sick in all cases 
where the patient's mentality was sufficiently strong to
 
Page 462
 
understand her teachings and act upon them. - Brooklyn
Eagle
 
The book "Science and Health with Key to the Scrip- 
tures" is certainly original, and contains much that 
will do good. The reader will find this work not influ- 
enced by superstition or pride, but striking out boldly, 
- full of self-sacrifice and love towards God and man. -
Christian Advocate, Buffalo, N. Y.
 
The doctrines of "Science and Health with Key to 
the Scriptures" are high and pure, wholly free from 
those vile theories about love and marriage which have 
been so prevalent among the spiritualists. This new 
sect devotes itself to a study of the Bible, and a practice 
of curing disease without mesmerism or spiritualism. It 
treats Darwin and materialists with a lofty scorn. - 
Springfield Republican
 
"Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" is 
indisputably a wonderful work. It has no equal. No 
one can read the book and not be benefited by it in mind 
and body. The work is endorsed by some of the best 
men of the age. - Star-Spangled Banner 
 
We shall watch with keen interest the promised results 
of "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures." 
The work shows how the body can be cured, and how
 
Page 463
 
a better state of Christianity can be introduced (which 
is certainly very desirable) . It likewise has a hard thrust 
at spiritualism; and, taken altogether, it is a very rare 
book. - Boston Investigator
 
The author of "Science and Health with Key to the 
Scriptures," which is attracting much attention, shows 
her ability to defend her cause with vigor. - Boston 
Weekly Journal
 
(By permission) 
HOW TO UNDERSTAND SCIENCE AND HEALTH 
 
 
My Dear Friend H.: - Your good letter of the 26th 
ult. came duly to hand several days ago, and I am not 
greatly surprised at its contents. You say, in substance, 
that you procured the book, "Science and Health with 
Key to the Scriptures," which I recommended, and 
that to your surprise and disgust you found it to be a 
work on faith-cure, and ask by what process of reason- 
ing I could possibly bring myself to adopt or accept 
such visionary theories. In answer to your very nat- 
ural question, I will try, in my own way, to give you 
what appears to me to be a reason for the hope that is 
in me.
 
My religious views of fifteen years ago are too famil- 
iar to you to need any exposition at my hands at this 
time. Suffice it to say that the religion of the Bible, 
as taught by the churches, to my mind appeared to be
 
Page 464
 
self-contradictory and confusing, and their explanations 
failed to explain. During the next eleven years my 
convictions underwent little change. I read everything 
that came in my way that had any bearing upon, or 
pretended in any degree to explain, the problem of life; 
and while I gained some knowledge of a general nature, 
I was no nearer the solution of life's problem than when 
I began my investigations years ago, and I had given 
up all hope of ever being able to come to a knowledge 
of the truth, or a satisfactory explanation of the enigma 
of life.
 
In all my intellectual wanderings I had never lost my 
belief in a great First Cause, which I was as well satis- 
fied to call God as anything else; but the orthodox ex- 
planations of His or its nature and power were to my 
mind such a mixture of truth and error, that I could not 
tell where fact left off and fancy began. The whole ef- 
fort of the pulpit being put forth, seemed directed to the im- 
possible task of harmonizing the teachings of Jesus Christ 
with the wisdom of the world; and the whole tendency 
of our religious education was to befog the intellect and 
produce scepticism in a mind that presumed to think 
for itself and to inquire into the why and the wherefore. 
I fully believe that the agnosticism of yourself and my- 
self was produced by the futile attempt to mix and har- 
monize the wisdom of the world with the philosophy of 
the Christ.
 
In my investigations into the researches of the savants 
and philosophers I found neither any satisfactory expla- 
nation of things as they seemed to exist, nor any solu- 
tion of the great and all-absorbing question, "What is 
Truth?" Their premises appeared to be sound, and
 
Page 465
 
their reasonings faultless; but in the nature of things, 
no final conclusion of the whole matter could be reached 
from premises based wholly on material knowledge. 
They could explain "matter" and its properties to their 
own satisfaction, but the intelligence that lay behind or 
beyond it, and which was manifested in and through it, 
was to them as much of a mystery as it was to the hum- 
blest of God's creatures. They could prove pretty con- 
clusively that many of the generally accepted theories 
had no basis in fact; but they left us as much in the 
dark regarding Life and its governing Principle as had 
the divines before them.
 
About four years ago, while still in the mental condi- 
tion above indicated, my attention was called to what at 
that time appeared to me to be a new phase of spiritism, 
and which was called by those who professed to believe 
in it, Christian Science. I thought that I had given some 
attention to about all the isms that ever existed, and that 
this was only another phantasm of some religionist lost 
in the labyrinths of mental hallucination. 
 
In my reflections at that time it seemed to me that 
life was an incomprehensible enigma; that the creator 
had placed us on this earth, and left us entirely in the 
dark as to His purpose in so doing. We seemed to be 
cast upon the ocean of time, and left to drift aimlessly 
about, with no exact knowledge of what was required of 
us or how to attain unto the truth, which must certainly 
have an existence somewhere. It seemed to me that in 
the very nature of things there must be a great error 
somewhere in our understanding, or that the creator 
Himself had slipped a cog when He fitted all things into 
their proper spheres. That there had been a grand mis-
 
Page 466
 
take somewhere I had no doubt; but I still had doubt 
enough of my own capabilities and understanding to be- 
lieve that the mistake, whatever it was, was in me and 
not in the creator. I knew that, in a fair measure at 
least, I had an honest desire to live aright, as it was given 
me to see the right, and to strive to some extent to do the 
will of God, if I could only know certainly just what it 
was.
 
While in this frame of mind, I inwardly appealed to 
the great unseen power to enlighten my understanding, 
and to lead me into a knowledge of the truth, promising 
mentally to follow wherever it might lead, if I could only 
do so understandingly.
 
My wife had been investigating Christian Science to 
some extent, but knowing my natural antipathy to such 
vagaries, as I then thought them, had said very little to 
me about it; but one day, while discussing the mysteries 
of life with a judge of one of our courts, he asked me 
whether I had ever looked into the teachings of the Chris- 
tian Scientists. I told him that I had not, and he urged 
me very strongly to do so. He claimed to have investi- 
gated their teachings, and said that he had become a 
thorough believer in them. This aroused my curiosity, 
and I procured the book called "Science and Health 
with Key to the Scriptures," and read it. Before read- 
ing very far in it, I became pretty thoroughly nauseated 
with what I thought the chimerical ideas of the author, 
but kept on reading, - more because I had promised to 
read the book than because of interest in its teachings; 
but before I had gotten through with it, I did become 
interested in the Principle that I thought I discovered 
the author was striving to elucidate; and when I got
 
Page 467
 
through it, I began again and reread it very carefully. 
When I had finished reading this book the second time, 
I had become thoroughly convinced that her explana- 
tion of the religion taught by Jesus Christ, and what 
he did teach, afforded the only explanation which, to 
my mind, came anywhere near harmonizing and making 
cohesive what had always seemed contradictory and 
inexplicable in the Bible. I became satisfied that I had 
found the truth for which I had long been seeking, and 
I arose from the reading of the book a changed man; 
doubt and uncertainty had fled, and my mind has never 
been troubled with a serious doubt upon the subject from 
that day to this.
 
I do not pretend to have acquired the power it is claimed 
we may attain to; but I am satisfied that the fault is in 
me, and not in the Principle. I think I can almost hear 
you ask, What! do you believe in miracles? I answer 
unhesitatingly, Yes; I believe in the manifestations of 
the power of Mind which the world calls miraculous; 
but which those who claim to understand the Principle 
through which the works are done, seem to think not 
unnatural, but only the logical result of the application 
of a known Principle.
 
It always did seem to me that Truth should be self- 
evident, or at least susceptible of unmistakable proof, - 
which all religions seemed to lack, at least in so far as I 
had known them. I now remember that Jesus furnished 
unmistakable proofs of the truth of his teachings, by his 
manifestations of the power of Mind, or, as some might 
call it, Spirit; which power he plainly taught would be 
acquired by those who believed in the Principle which he 
taught, and which manifestations would follow as signs
 
Page 468
 
that an understanding of his philosophy had been reached. 
It does seem to me, that where the signs do not follow 
professing Christians which Christ said should follow 
them, there must be something wrong, either in his teach- 
ings or their understanding of them; and to say the 
least, the foundations of their faith require a careful re- 
examination, with a view to harmonizing them with the 
plain teachings of the Christ in whose footsteps they 
profess to follow.
 
I never could understand how God could be ever-pres- 
ent as a personal Being, but I think I can and do under- 
stand how divine Principle can pervade every thing and 
place.
 
I never could understand how heaven could be a place 
with gorgeous fittings, but I think I can and do under- 
stand how it might be a spiritual (or if you please mental) 
condition. Jesus said, "The kingdom of God cometh 
not with observation: neither shall they say, Lo here! 
or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within 
you."
 
"Knowledge (or understanding) is power." Since 
adopting the views of life as set forth in "Science and 
Health with Key to the Scriptures," I have seen proofs 
of what can be accomplished through a knowledge of the 
truth, which to my mind amount to demonstrations, and 
which no longer seem incredible, but which I do not ask 
another to accept upon my statements. Every one must 
see or feel for himself in order to be convinced; but I 
am satisfied that any who will lay aside their preconceived 
notions, and deal honestly with themselves and the light 
they have, will come to a knowledge of the truth as illus- 
trated in the teachings and life of Jesus Christ; that is,
 
Page 469
 
that Mind, or Soul, or whatever you may be pleased to 
call it, is the real Ego, or self, and that mortal mind with 
its body is the unreal and vanishing, and eventually goes 
back to its native nothingness.
 
Truth is, and ever has been, simple; and because of 
its utter simplicity, we in our pride and selfishness have 
been looking right over it. We have been keeping our 
eyes turned toward the sky, scanning the heavens with 
a far-off gaze in search of light, expecting to see the 
truth blaze forth like some great comet, or in some ex- 
traordinary manner; and when, instead of coming in 
great pomp and splendor, it appears in the simpleness 
of demonstration, we are staggered at it, and refuse to 
accept it; our intellectual pride is shocked, and we are 
sure that there has been some mistake. Human nature 
is ever the same. The Jews were looking for something 
transcendently wonderful, and the absence of it made 
the Christ, Truth, to them a stumbling-block. It was 
foolishness to the Greeks, who excelled in the worldly 
wisdom of that day; but in all ages of the world it has 
ever been the power of God to them that believe, not 
blindly, but because of an enlightened understanding. 
 
I always did think that there was something beautiful 
in the philosophy of life as taught by Jesus Christ, but 
that it was impracticable and not susceptible of applica- 
tion to the affairs of life in a world constituted as this 
appeared to be. As I now view it, that belief was the 
result of ignorance of the real power that "moves the 
universe," - too much faith in matter or effect, and not 
enough in Mind or cause, which is God.
 
To one who can accept the truth that all causation is 
in Mind, and who therefore begins to look away from
 
Page 470
 
matter and into Mind, or Spirit, for all that is real and 
eternal, and for all that produces anything that is last- 
ing, the doubts and petty annoyances of life become 
dissolved in the light of a better understanding, which 
has been refined in the crucible of charity and love; and 
they fade away into the nothingness from whence they 
came, never having had any existence in fact, being only 
the inventions of erring human belief.
 
Read the teachings of the Christ from a Christian Science 
standpoint, and they no longer appear vague and mysti- 
cal, but become luminous and powerful, - and, let me 
say, intelligible.
 
It is true, as you intimate, that this theory of life is 
much more generally accepted by women than by men, 
and it may be true that as a rule their reasoning is much 
less rigid in its nature than that of the sterner sex, and 
that they may be liable to scan their premises less keenly; 
but may it not also be true, that they are of finer texture 
and more spiritual in their natures, and that they may 
be just as likely to arrive at the truth through their in- 
tuitions, in connection with their logic, as we are through 
the more rugged courses? If it be true that man is the 
more logical, the fallibility of our own reasonings very 
frequently becomes painfully apparent even to ourselves, 
and they are therefore not the safest gauge by which to 
judge others.
 
I believe, myself, that when it comes to standing up 
for Truth in the face of the world, and possibly at the 
sacrifice of position and popularity, women possess the 
necessary courage in a much greater degree than do 
men.
 
I had not intended to weary you with such a long
 
Page 471
 
letter, but after getting into the subject, I hardly knew 
where to stop. As an old and loved friend, I have given 
you a glimpse of my inner life, because I hardly knew 
how to explain my mental condition to you in any other 
way. . . .