Publishers' Note:
This book was first published in 1913 and since then it has been reprinted five times,because of the continued interest in its contents. The authors were both exercising their powers of clairvoyant observation and their book represents a contribution in a field about which very little is known. It should be noted, however, that since the Theosophical society has no dogmas or creeds, the statements made in this book do not necessarily reflect the views of the society or of all its members. The wok is offered undogmatically, and each student is encouraged to arrive at his own conclusions on the subjects discussed. ......
Foreword by Annie Besant and C.W.Leadbeater:
The idea that clairvoyant observation is possible is no longer regarded as entirely insane......
The use of clairvoyance for research into the past is not new.......
Proofs of its general accuracy obviously cannot be given, though from time to time discoveries may be made which confirm an occasional statement.......
To students we would say: Accept it so far as it helps you in your studies, and throws light on what you already know....
As a history cannot be written without names, and as reincarnation is a fact--and therefore the re-appearance of the same individual throughout succeeding ages is also a fact, the individual playing many parts under many names--we have given names to many individuals by which they may be recognized throughout the dramas in which they take part.
..... They are not Gods perfect from unending ages, but men and women who have unfolded the God within themselves and have, along a toilsome road, reached the superhuman. They are the fulfilled promise of what we shall be, the glorious flowers on the plant on which we are the buds.
And so we launch our ship on the stormy ocean of publicity, to face its destiny and find its fate.