roots will go searching out for nourishment. When once it has a fair start, it clings to life with a persistency that defies sun and tempest. Place a rock upon the little seed. Does it become discouraged and die? Not a bit of it. The slender shoot, with full faith in its own power, and an innate knowledge of the bright sunshine, and balmy air awaiting it outside, goes creeping along in the darkness, until the impediment is passed, or a crevice in the rock allows it to ascend, when it puts on a green robe, like those of its companion plants, and reaches up its head in the warmth of the God-love that has been surrounding it all the while. It is an annual, giving its life to its seed and then dying. But horticulturists, who wish to use the leaves instead of the seed for the table, and whose grounds are too small to admit of giving much space to any one thing, have found that the life of the plant may be indefinitely prolonged by plucking the seed cups before the buds are matured. And what happens then? Why the life-principle is held within the stalk, and for every cluster of buds plucked, a half dozen or so new branches will appear. Pluck the seed cups from these, and still others will spring forth; and so on until the tall, spindling plant takes the appearance of a shrub. Try the experiment. I have done so in order to supply my table with tender greens, and I never yet knew a plant to die until often, tiring of the greens, I have let it run to seed.

There are many lessons to be learned from a grain of mustard seed. Its hardiness; its perseverence amid the direct difficulties; its faith in its own power to spread its leaves in the sunshine, no matter what impediments may present themselves, and in spite of its insignificance in regard to size, caused it to be chosen by Christ to teach us what elevation we may obtain, if we possess like faith, perseverence and courage.

Yes, like faith in us, would remove the dark mountains of doubt and passion that stand between us and our Father, and enable us to grow in the glad light of His love and knowledge.

ESOTERIC BRANCHES.

FROM the numerous answers to the questions of the Nucleus Work and Culture, we have determined that the majority of applicants belong to one definite pupil-group, and, as was expected, the members of that group possess great similarity of aspiration and ability. The preliminary cir cular was not one of instruction in the Nucleus Work and Culture, but in a method of getting the data for classification. Now that we know the needs and desires of the majority, we have decided to present a modified and special course, tending to render the Branch Workers more united in aim, and less divergent in the subject matter of their study and training. Although the Branch Workers are under the direct superintendence of C. H. Mackay, they are not therefore taken out from under the supervision and management of the founder of the Esoteric Movement, for he is and has been, engaged in organizing and teaching Branches, and will personally assist in introducing the Special Work. The Nucleus Work and Culture under the superintendence of Melvin L. Severy has been with drawn, and he has resigned with our love and best wishes, to take charge

of a different line of work in Art and Esthetics, which he has long anticipated, and for which his eminent abilities particularly fit him.

This change simplifies and renders more elementary the immediate work of the Branches, and leads more directly to the ultimate in view by the faithful members of the College Movement. Those who misunderstood some recent statements, which statements themselves were based upon a misunderstanding, will be pleased to know that Hiram Erastus Butler is directly connected with the Branch Movement that the Branches are Esoteric Branches, and that when the Work and Culture is presented, it will be with the full approval and assistance of Mr. Butler-no different course has ever been contemplated. In all the objects and purposes of the Branch Work there is no disagreement between the Nucleus Teacher and H. E. Butler. The Work and Culture will be given to members selected from the Branches, and the special subjects taught will be under charge of special teachers.

The executive relations of the representative of Vidya-Nyaika to the Esoteric Movement ceases with the transference of the remaining industries to the leader of the Esoteric Movement, and the Branch Work and Movement will be then, as it is now, under Prof. Butler's immediate control; and if the people desire the Work and Culture and the No. 1 Department, it will be presented with the full approval of those most concerned. The change modifies some of the questions, the 11th particularly, which need not include the temperature of the breath. All other questions must be answered just as before, and the Seven Step tests made. Our Brother Mackay, in whose sterling fidelity and ability we have all trusted, will superintend the presentation of the Special Work and Culture to the Branches, as outlined and arranged by the Teacher of the Nuclei, and we assure our pupils that the Special Course has the full sanction and assistance of those who have a right to accept or reject, or it would not be presented at all; and in said course H. E. Butler will be the leader of one of the most important departments.

As soon as the numerous letters can be examined, and as soon as the management of the Movement can attend to certain business matters, the final announcement will be made, and with the guidance and help of the Infinite All, we hope to meet with no delays in our endeavors to permanently help humanity. Lovingly Your Brother, TEACHER OF THE NUCLEI.

N. B. The Teacher of the Nuclei desires to correct a statement in the Preliminary Circular about the tatwa, to which his attention was kindly directed by Dr. Brievogelle of New York-it should read anterior nares instead of posterior nares, and instead of the septum curling against the walls of the nostril, the nostril wall presses against the septum. This mistake will be corrected in the circular. The fibres in the walls of the nostril above the ala nasi curl, and the tissues depress against the septum. The doctor has our thanks for not allowing the mistake to pass unnoticed — for a wrong concept is a veritable evil.

Will Branch Members please correct their circulars as above.

A typographical error in Prof. Butler's article in the April ESOTERIC (page 421, third paragraph) somewhat changes his intended meaning, "illustrations should be read "elucidations." Also in "Stepping Stones (page 411, second paragraph) the sentence; "The spirit of man is the abiding place of the soul," should be read; "The soul of man is the abiding place of the spirit."

THE ZODIACAL CONSTELLATIONS.

FOR the benefit of Solar Biology students and others, we present herewith the first of a series of twelve articles on the above subject.

We shall not confine ourselves strictly to those stars included in the zodiac, but shall point out the positions of many others, more or less closely connected with these constellations. In studying the constellations, the reader must bear in mind that the signs of the zodiac are changeless, while the constellations are slowly moving around the heavens at the rate of one sign (30 degrees) in about 2000 years. This change is so gradual that no variation in the places of the "fixed" stars would be noticed during a life-time of close observation. The diagrams which accompany these articles are made by the author, and verified by actual observation. Only those stars are shown which he has seen with the unassisted eye, except as otherwise designated. By systematic observation the reader will surprise himself by the progress he will make in developing his powers of seeing stars where previously all was blank.

That group of stars known as Leo, is now in fine position for observation It will be easily found (during May) by facing the south western heavens, and looking at a section a little more than midway from the horizon to the zenith. The principle star is Regulus in the lion's neck. Above Regulus will be seen a curved line of smaller stars, these are known as the "Sickle." Denebola is in the tail of the lion. To facilitate fixing these stars more firmly in the observer's mind, we have shown the positions of the stars Arcturus* (of the constellation Bootes) and Spica (of Virgo.) These two stars with Denebola form a triangle, whose sides are nearly 45 degrees in length. This is a point which the student should remember, for these lines form a most convenient standard of measurement in reckoning distances between other celestial bodies.

Do not confound the planet Saturn † with the star Regulus. There is little similarity between these two bodies, for Regulus is almost white, while Saturn is a dull red. Another important point is this: Saturn shines with a dull, steady light, while Regulus twinkles or flashes. Saturn's light is reflected. The light of Regulus is his own, like that of our sun.

The place of the planet Uranus † is indicated, but only the most practiced eye can find it. It is now in splendid position for observation, and we would be pleased to hear from those who are able to see it without the assistance of a glass. C. H. M. *During the early hours of evening in May, this star is directly overhead.

We give planetary positions as they appear viewed from the earth (geocentric position.) Solar Biology gives their positions as they wonld be seen from the sun.

EDITORIAL.

A MEETING of the directors of The Esoteric Publishing Company was held April 7th to consider the resignation of Melvin L. Severy, as Director, Treasurer, and Managing Editor. Mr. Severy's resignation was accepted, and Chas. H. Mackay chosen to fill the vacancy in the office of Treasurer and Editor, and Hiram E. Butler was elected Director. Mr. Mackay submitted his resignation as President, and the office was given to Mr. Hiram E. Butler. Following is the board of officers as now existing.

Hiram E. Butler
Wilbur H. Manning

Chas. H. Mackay

Directors.

Hiram E. Butler, President and Contributing Editor; Wilbur H. Manning, Vice President; Chas. H. Mackay, Treasurer and Managing Editor.

Mr. Severy's withdrawal from the Editorial department of THE ESOTERIC, and his disconnection from the company is elsewhere referred to in this number of THE ESOTERIC. See the article entitled "Esoteric Branches," also the paragraph over Mr. Severy's name.

THE present editor, in his new position, feels himself a child upon the borders of a boundless and unexplored ocean of great possibilities. The editorial chair has come unsought, and while we feel impressed with the importance of a position which places us more directly before our people in the capacity of teacher and adviser, yet we were quite satisfied with former connections.

Our readers may rest assured that under the new regimen every opportunity will be improved to further the interests of this magazine and the work in general. We, in our methods as a people, are yet far from that satisfactory state of order and development, which the successful issue of the movement demands. The perfect point cannot be reached at once, however. The improvement must come gradually, and with patience, faithful and united labor, we shall attain to that which we seek.

THERE seems a likelihood that our circular, or a portion of it, in April ESOTERIC was not as clear as it might have been. We said therein, referring to Mr. Butler: "He seeks only to benefit humanity, and while the means employed may not be unassailable from a scientific stand-point, yet he always does his best." It has been suggested that this might be interpreted to imply: "He means well but is ignorant!" Allow us to say that Prof. Butler's teachings have been proven absolutely true and beneficial in our own experience as far forth as we have tested them. He has studied and experimented upon Nature's laws; is an inventor and mechanic of large capability, and while laying no claim to scientific attainments, he is sufficiently familiar with this branch of knowledge to be always able and competent to demonstrate his principles of teaching.

say

IN leaving the editorial department of THE ESOTERIC to take charge of other matters, the undersigned regrets to inform his readers that press of other matters will necessitate the discontinuance of his two serials "A Prayer for Knowledge and "Art Culture and its Effect Upon the Conduct of Life." To those who have followed the Art Articles thus far, and are desirous of mastering their theme, I would that if they will communicate with me at 534 Tremont St., this city, outlining their present attainments, I will be pleased to suggest to them such literature as will enable them to follow the subject from the point where this number leaves it. I make this offer inasmuch as circumstances will not permit me to finish the subject as I had originally planned, and because I dislike to leave those who may have become interested in it thus far, without suggesting books which will give them further information. M. L. SEVERY.

"WHAT can I do; I am alone and there is no opportunity for me to be of service in this attempt to uplift and benefit my fellows?" We receive so many letters

containing queries of this import. To all such we simply say: Act upon suggestion and organize yourself into a branch of one. Promise that you will neglect no opportunity to do good; that you will do your best to live each day in such a manner that at night you can review the acts of the hours just past and receive the blessing, "well done" from an approving and awakened conscience. Your example of pure living will attract those of like quality to yourself, and you will not always be alone.

Is there a more satisfactory or surer road to the successful ultimation of a movement like ours, than through organization?

Organize, if for no other purpose than for social interchange of ideas, and the creation of centres from which may radiate the purest and noblest thought. We hope that every reader of this magazine will grasp the importance of this idea, and cause their names to be enrolled at once, as members of record in the great work at hand.

PROF. BUTLER'S "Bible Reviews" began in the April ESOTERIC under the title of "To the Readers of THE ESOTERIC." The former title will, hereinafter, be applied to this series however.

We predict that great interest will be taken in these "reviews," for they will be given in an original and comprehensive style. Henceforth, each issue of THE ESOTERIC will contain subjects from the pen of Mr. Butler, for he is now comparatively at leisure from his arduous duties in connection with other departments of the work. We are sure that the reader will be gratified to learn of this, for Mr. Butler's writings have ever been most acceptable to the columns of this mag

azine.

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WE acknowledge receipt of the following books which will be noticed more at length in our next number:-" Food and Work" by M. L. Holbrook, price. $1.00. "Truth's Fairy Tales" by Julia Winchester, price, $1.10. Rocks and Shoals by Mrs. Bella F. Swisher, paper covers, 25 cents. Also the pamphlet, "Rights of Man" by J. F. D'Arey.

WE have made arrangements with the manufacturers, whereby we are now enabled to furnish the Deyton Radial Spirometer direct from this office. This is a most valuable aid in the development of lung power, and there are few who cannot derive great benefit from its daily use. (See Ad.)

QUITE a stock of pamphlets and magazines have been sent us through exchanges and otherwise. They are of little use to us, and we desire that our readers may get the benefit of their contents. We propose to offer them at 25 cents per pound, and will send a good assortment with each order.

LETTERS pertaining to Branch business should be so designated upon the outside of the envelope in closing them. This envelope must be inclosed in another addressed, Esoteric Publishing Company.

"LOOKING BACKWARD" has attained a most remarkable popularity. Nearly 325,000 copies have been sold. We can furnish it in paper covers at 50 cents per copy, post-paid. (See Ad.)

REMEMBER that sample copies of THE ESOTERIC are freely sent to all who feel sufficiently interested to make the application. Mention this fact to your friends. WE have a "World" Type Writer which has been used but slightly, and which can be bought for $8.00.

A "METAPHYSICAL TEXT-BOOK" by Mrs. H. C. Clark, ably expounds the subject indicated by its title. Price, 15 cents.

"PRELIMINARY INSTRUCTIONS may now be obtained at 10 cents per copy in any quantity desired.

THE serial "In the Astral" will probably be completed in the June issue of his magazine.