| The first excerpt represents the element of Air. It speaks of mental influences and the process of thought, and is drawn from Fantastic Fables by Ambrose Bierce: against conviction."
This answer deeply impressed the Lawyer, and having ascertained
that the Burglar had accumulated no money in his profession he
threw up the case.
The Fabulist and the Animals
A WISE and illustrious Writer of Fables was visiting a travelling
menagerie with a view to collecting literary materials. As he was
passing near the Elephant, that animal said:
"How sad that so justly famous a satirist should mar his work by
ridicule of people with long noses - who are the salt of the
earth!"
Fantastic Fables |
The second excerpt represents the element of Fire. It speaks of emotional influences and base passions, and is drawn from The Bride of Lammermoor by Walter Scott: to this honourable maiden, since her faith is now irrevocably
pledged to the choice of her parents. Let it, I say, be this: it
belongeth to my functions to entreat your honours' compliance
with this headling overture."
"Never!" answered Lady Ashton, whose rage had now overcome her
first surprise and terror--"never shall this man speak in
private with my daughter, the affianced bride of another! pass
from this room who will, I remain here. I fear neither his
violence nor his weapons, though some, " she said, glancing a
look towards Colonel Ashton, "who bear my name appear more moved
by them."
The Bride of Lammermoor |
