[3] This answer is the more remarkable from the fact that my mind was intent upon the revelation of some new theory, while the other operator was not at all familiar with the subject. The simplicity of the answer, and its statement of what had been the common practice for years past, made me feel for the moment that I had been very cleverly hoaxed.
[4] In every instance the writing of Planchette has been copied verbatim.
[5] The gray matter of the nervous centres, the precise nature of which is unknown.
[6] "Outlines of Physiology."
[7] There is no doubt that spirit-writing is very ancient, China alone furnishing sufficient evidence of the fact.
"Spirit-writing," says Taylor, "is of two kinds, according as it is done with or without a material instrument. The first kind is in full practice in China, where, like other rites of divination, it is probably ancient. It is called 'descending of the pencil,' and is especially used by the literary classes. When a Chinese wishes to consult a god in this way, he sends for a professional medium. Before the image of the god are set candles and incense, and an offering of tea or mock money. In front of this on another table is placed an oblong tray of dry sand. The writing instrument is a V-shaped wooden handle, two or three feet long, with a wooden tooth fixed at its point. Two persons hold this instrument, each grasping one leg of it, and the point resting on the sand. Proper prayers and charms induce the god to manifest his presence by a movement of the point in the sand, and thus the response is written, and there only remains the somewhat difficult and doubtful task of deciphering it...."—"Primitive Culture." By Ed. B. Taylor. Vol. I., p. 133.
[8] The serpent was more subtle than any beast of the field; "Be ye wise as serpents."—Bible.