Lincoln and his killer(extracted from the Banner of Light, from Boston)
Analysis of a communication from Abraham Lincoln, obtained through medium in Ravenswood
“
When Lincoln recovered from his dizziness, and woke up in the spiritual world, he was very surprised and confused, for he had no idea he was dead. The blow that struck him had instantly suspended all sensation, and he did not understand what had happened to him. This confusion and turmoil did not last long, though. He was spiritualist enough to understand what death is, and he was not, like many others, astonished at the new existence to which he found himself transported. He saw himself surrounded by many people he knew had long been dead, and he soon learned the cause of his death. He was cordially welcomed by many people for whom he had sympathy. He understood their affection for him, and shortly he could embrace the happy world he had entered.At the same time, he had a sense of anguish, for the pain his family should be experiencing, and great anxiety about the consequences his death might have for his country. These thoughts brought him violently back to earth. Having heard that William Booth[1] was mortally wounded, he came up to him and leaned over his deathbed. By this time Lincoln had regained full awareness and the tranquility of his Spirit, and calmly awaited Booth's awakening into the spiritual life. Booth wasn't surprised when he woke up, as he expected his death. The first Spirit he encountered was Lincoln; he looked at him with great boldness, and as if boastful of the act he had committed. Lincoln's feeling for him, however, did not radiate any idea of vengeance, quite the contrary; he was gentle and kind, and without the slightest animosity towards him. Booth couldn't stand this situation and left him filled with emotion. The act he committed had several motives; first his lack of judgment, that made him consider him meritorious, and then his unruly love of praise had persuaded him that he would be showered with praise and regarded as a martyr. After wandering around, he again found himself drawn to Lincoln. Sometimes he is filled with repentance, other times his pride prevents him from amending. Yet, he understands how vain his pride is, knowing above all that he cannot hide, as he did during his life, any of the feelings that agitate him, and that his thoughts of pride, shame or remorse are known to those around him. Always in the presence of his victim, and receiving only remarks of kindness, this is his current state and his punishment. As for Lincoln, his happiness surpasses what he could have hoped for.” Observation: The situation of these two Spirits is, in all respects, consistent with what we daily see examples in accounts from beyond the grave. It is perfectly rational, and in keeping with the character of the two individuals.
[1] A likely typo. Full name was John Wilkes Booth (T.N.)
