Page:The Naturalisation of the Supernatural.pdf/132

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112
On Hallucinations in General

indeed so clothe it if it is to rise into consciousness at all.

But fortunately we are not compelled to make the violent transition referred to; for some of the most remarkable hallucinations of which we have authentic records have been produced experimentally. Some instances of the kind were published in Phantasms of the Living. It was after reading the accounts there given that Mr. Clarence Godfrey, a friend of my own, determined to make a similar experiment on his own account. He wrote to me on the 16th November, 1886, as follows:

No. 28. From Mr. Clarence Godfrey[1]

I was so impressed by the account on p. 105 [of Phantasms of the Living, vol. i.] that I determined to put the matter to an experiment.

Retiring at 10.45 (on the 15th November, 1886), I determined to appear, if possible, to a friend, and accordingly I set myself to work with all the volitional and determinative energy which I possess to stand at the foot of her bed. I need not say that I never dropped the slightest hint beforehand as to my intention, such as could mar the experiment, nor had I mentioned the subject to her. As the "agent" I may describe my own experiences.

Undoubtedly the imaginative faculty was brought extensively into play, as well as the volitional, for I endeavoured to trample myself, spiritually, into her room, and to attract her attention, as it were, while standing there. My effort was sustained for perhaps eight minutes, after which I felt tired, and was soon asleep.

The next thing I was conscious of was meeting the lady next morning (i. e., in a dream, I suppose?), and asking her at
  1. Studies in Physical Research, by F. Podmore, pp. 249–252.