We
have disposed by this time of most illusions; and the same scientific
method is being strenuously applied to all other processes of human
endeavour. It is even hinted that Sylvanus has practically proved that
the imaginative element in literature is purely a taint of barbarism,
though he has not yet announced the fact. But many of his class are
looking forward to his final lecture on the subject as to a profoundly
sensational event, which is likely to set a deep mark upon all our
conceptions of literary endeavour. So that," he said with a tolerant
smile, gently rubbing his hands together, "our life here is not by any
means destitute of the elements of excitement, though we most of us, of
course, aim at the acquisition of a serene and philosophic temper. But
I must not delay you," he added; "there is much to see and to hear, and
you will be welcomed everywhere: and indeed I am myself somewhat closely
engaged, though in a subject which is not fraught with such polite
emollience. I attend the school of metaphysics, from which we have at
last, I hope, eliminated the last traces of that debasing element of
psychology, which has so long vitiated the exact study of the subject.
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