"As you can see," explained President Jackson, "one chair for each United States President — past and present."
Dorothy appeared somewhat puzzled, and was about to speak, when President Jackson continued: "As you know, most of the American presidents have left their earthly bodies and now live here. However, at any given point in time there are usually one or more ex-presidents still in their physical bodies as well as, of course, the existing or current President. A chair is required for each of these people because, although they are still on the earth, they are able, while in restitude, to depart temporarily from their physical abode — their bodies; and join us for our meetings.
"Incidentally, time is not the same here as on earth. For example, we could have a meeting here which lasts for several hours. But only minutes would have elapsed on earth. Peculiar, isn't it? You will understand why this is so at a later date.
"Now, the earth presidents will more than likely not consciously remember their visit here. In fact, it is very difficult for anyone to recall such visits upon awakening. But these visits are so very important. A great deal is impressed on the subconscious level of the mind during these excursions and much is accomplished."
President Jackson sat down and motioned Dorothy and her friends to do the same. "I think the proceedings are about to begin," he whispered.
Dorothy looked around the table. What a distinguished sight to behold, she thought. Every single president of the United States of America. And to think she, little Dorothy from Kansas, was here with them as a guest. She had noticed earlier that each chair had a beautifully designed silver nameplate attached with a president's name engraved. Two dates also appeared. One said "Birth date," the other "Transition date." She noticed that the transition dates on the chairs belonging to the current President and ex-presidents still on earth had not yet been engraved. She wondered if those dates were known in advance by those present who had already made the transition.
The presidents were seated in sequence, beginning with George Washington, and ending with the current President. The only chair not in sequence was President Andrew Jackson's, whose chair was the larger one at the end of the table.
President Jackson now stood. He spoke with a strong, vibrant voice. "Let us recite the Pledge." Everyone stood and, holding the right hand over the heart, began.... "I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all."
"Please be seated," said President Jackson.
On the wall behind President Jackson was a large sculpture of a beautiful eagle. It appeared to be made of solid gold. In each corner of the room was a large American flag.