My fortunes and thine we must
direct, for though we implored that Power till we died from the fervor
of our supplications, It could not hear, whose ears are filled with the
murmurings of the traveling stars. Why we were created and forgotten,
we may not know. How may we guess the motives of anything too great
for us to conceive? Whatsoever befalls us results from our use at the
hands of men, or from the nature of our abiding-place. We must defend
ourselves, prosper ourselves and live for what we make of life. After
that we shall not know the troubles and the joys of the world, for the
tombs are restful and soundless. Is it not so, my Rachel?"
She shook her head. "Thou hast gone astray, Kenkenes. But thou wast
untaught--"
"I have reasoned, Rachel, and the Power I have found in my ponderings,
makes all the gods seem little. Thy God must manifest himself more
fearfully; he must overthrow my reasoning before I can bow to him. And
if, of a surety, he is greater than the Power I have made, will he need
my adoration or listen to my prayers? Nay, nay, my Rachel. If thou
wilt have me worship, let me fall on my face to thee--"
She interrupted him with a quick gesture.
"Kenkenes, have I prayed in vain for the light to fall on thee?" she
asked sadly.
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