divine Architect, these shadows but compel us to see that which can alone survive as the fittest in this struggle with our lesser selves which we call existence.

The blessedness of giving for its own sake is beautifully portrayed, as well as the the patience that can wait, however long, for recognition. The lawful little deceptions by which Pauline enables her loved one to accept assistance without sacrifice to his pride, the never-ceasing watchfulness which not only enables her to give, but also provides the means by which she gives, touch the heart with a profound emotion, as if a veil has been lifted, affording a glimpse of holy virgin motherhood.

This idea, the virginity of motherhood, foreign perhaps to the artificial sentiment of a modern society, is carried throughout the triad. We see it in the faithful devotion and protection given to Louis Lambert, in the firm yet tender guidance of Seraphita. It is a revelation of the Divine, that with the patience of infinity waits for fruitage. The woman who loves with the higher love will inevitably be the mother as well as the wife to him she loves. The wifely office includes the other. Her husband is her child, to be brought up and out into the divine likeness; a result which can never be reached by the masculine nature without the help of the feminine. She is the necessary "help-meet" for the growing soul, for as she is overshadowed by the divine, even so does she overshadow her mate, who is reborn through her virginity.