| The first excerpt represents the element of Air. It speaks of mental influences and the process of thought, and is drawn from The Commission in Lunacy by Honore de Balzac: manoeuvres employed to entrap the refugees who had large fortunes to
carry away. It is enough to say that the lands of Negrepelisse,
comprising twenty-two churches and rights over the town, and those of
Gravenges which had formerly belonged to us, were at that time in the
hands of a Protestant family. My grandfather recovered them by gift
from Louis XIV. This gift was effected by documents hall-marked by
atrocious iniquity. The owner of these two estates, thinking he would
be able to return, had gone through the form of a sale, and was going
to Switzerland to join his family, whom he had sent in advance. He
wished, no doubt, to take advantage of every delay granted by the law,
so as to settle the concerns of his business.
|
The second excerpt represents the element of Fire. It speaks of emotional influences and base passions, and is drawn from Confidence by Henry James: "Will you go?"
"I will do what Angela requests," said Bernard.
"You have heard what she requests; it 's for you to come now."
"Ah, you must at least allow me to take leave!" cried Bernard.
Gordon went to the door, and when he had opened it he stood for a while,
holding it and looking at his companions. Then--
"I assure you she won't be long!" he said to Angela, and rapidly passed out.
The others stood silent till they heard the outer door of the apartment
close behind him.
"And now please to elucidate!" said Bernard, folding his arms.
Angela gave no answer for some moments; then she turned upon
|