rare -UTiZoi Book ^T 5 Gopightfi? COKRIGHT DEPOSIT. THE SECOND LETTERS FROM ROY . •* ■4^ f c: ^^^l^^^^^ THE SECOND LETTERS FROM ROY BY LEON H. STEVENS FURTHER PROGRESS IN THE MESSAGES FROM THE LIFE BEYOND, AS COMING FROM LEROY S. STEVENS, WHO, SINCE HIS PASSING, HAS GIVEN US THE PREVIOUS BOOK, CALLED "LETTERS FROM ROY" BOSTON Copyright i gi 8 by The Christopher Publishing House / NOV 29 1918 f CLA508330 BY WAY OF EXPLANATION. It is with a great deal of pleasure that we place before you this, the continua- tion of our first work, our first endeavor to help in the wonderful work of forever eliminating the fear of death. It is also with much pleasure that I take a mental review of both this book and the first; and for this reason — it is very evident that the messages of the second volume have shown a natural and much-to-be-desired progress. We have not failed to include some of the lighter material, for to omit it would be to remove a necessary family touch, or atmosphere. This would be a grave mistake, because it is our earnest desire to show the true situation, in as com- plete and concise a form as possible, and it would seem to us that a most valuable and comforting touch were missing, should all of the material which is used be of a serious, or weighty, nature. On the other hand, the more serious messages will be found in greater num- ber than in the first book. Knowing Roy as we do, this is to us BY WAY OF EXPLANATION an added satisfaction, for many reasons; the most important of which is to real- ize that he is in a life unlimited in its scope, giving him an opportunity to show what is really in him, without phy- sical handicap. He was extremely ambitious. This is often spoken of by mother, who says that some of his ambitions, as confided to her from time to time, were almost startling in their height. Of course, he still has his fund of good humor, as will be noticed on many occasions, and I imagine that he and our sister must be a hard combination to beat, once they get started! Roy was always quick-witted, some- times unconsciously bringing out a point with unexpected results. I shall never forget the time when he was a youngster, about four or five years old. I, as older brothers sometimes do, had teased him in some way, and quick as a flash, in a half-petulant tone he cried, "I wish I was a door. I'd jam your finger!" FOREWORD It may be noticed that Roy, in this present work, has from time to time answered questions which may have arisen, or might some time arise, in connection with our work, the reasons why this particular method of commu- nication (The Ouija board) was chosen, etc. We feel that this is an important item for consideration, because it tends to clear up any misunderstandings. It tends to show his readers that he is do- ing his work in a thorough manner, try- ing to cover all necessary points to insure a more complete success of his efforts, of which the most important is that mentioned in the opening para- graph of this introduction. Ruth, as may be noticed in one par- ticular message near the end of the book, also wishes to show that under- neath all her sunshine and happiness, lies an intense desire, coming from a soul beautiful in its purity and love, to help people to a better spiritual under- standing, and preparation for the next life. FOREWORD I need not quote her, but simply refer to her message of January 15th, 1918, when she seemed anxious to add her bit of comforting material to Roy's book. It is not to be wondered at, therefore, that we are happy in our work, happy in the knowledge that so many on the other side are showing us the way. For, while the book is principally from Roy and Ruth, it must be remem- bered that there are doubtless many, many others helping, and for this help I want to take this opportunity to thank them, one and all, and of doing so in a way which I hope is pleasing to them. So, as you read, do so thoughtfully; read between the lines, because in so doing one can secure far more insight into the work. Try to feel that abso- lute naturalness is what is wanted. Naturalness, simplicity, and faith. These three can help so much in this old world of ours. As you read, let your thoughts also include those of your own families, who want so much to help you in your daily lives. Think of them and with them, and in so doing, bring yourselves into closer communion with them, and with the beautiful spiritual realm. The Second Letters From Roy "Cast thy bread upon the waters, for thou shalt find it after many days." This is the first that was given us on March 22nd, 1917, and, at the opening of the messages of this volume, it is sig- nificant in its connection with the first book. While I do not intend to weary my readers with but very little material which is of a personal nature, and then only as it has a particular purpose in the work, the next message of impor- tance is surely personal, but, on account of the sound advice which it contains, it will be placed in the record, of course omitting names. The man who gives the advice, through Roy, is known in Taunton and Brockton, Mass., and I feel confident that the very nature of his language, or phraseology, will enable some to recog- nize him. The man to whom the advice is given is well known to us. 10 SECOND LETTERS FROM ROY March 24th. "Tell that is going to give him some advice that he would have been glad to get when he was a young man. Keep the chip in your pocket if you have to carry one, but don't carry it on your shoulder! If you do, you will find plenty to knock it off. He says he was eternally kick- ing, and finally kicked himself out of that life. "He says if Roy had been with me when I was so sick he would have tried to smooth out the hurts, and I might have gone easier. He says he always had a kick when he met Roy, and won- dered why Roy had anything to say to him. Not that is so bad, but if you want anything to come your way you must listen to the other fellow some- times, and if you want a better job just look for the good points in that one, and shut your eyes and ears to the other man's faults, and see if you cannot find something good about him; and say, boy, you will feel a good sight happier." March 25th. " 'Let your conversa- tion be yea and nay, for whatsoever is more than these cometh of evil. ' Sara 1 1 . (It may be remembered that Sarah is SECOND LETTEKS FROM ROY 11 the Quaker teacher, mentioned in the former record.) " You got me today. The kid got the beach." He meant that mother had received his impression regarding a friend of hers who was stopping at a certain beach, and that I had received the beach impression, while at the supper table. You will note his name for me. It is a very common occurrence for him to use it through the board, it being simply a continuation of his habit while in the earth life; but I have previously hesi- tated to mention it. Now I am so cer- tain that it will help some to realize the close connection between the two worlds, or lives, that, while it is hardly formal, it must have a place in the record! I planned to attend a service at the Friends' Church in Eoxbury that even- ing, being anxious to hear the Pastor's talk on the War. This church is very near the place where we lived when Roy was between nine and thirteen years of age. " Going around my old stamping grounds tonight. About this time of the year I lost the coat in Townsend's 12 SECOND LETTERS FROM ROY field. (An incident which had entirely slipped our minds, until he recalled it.) I guess not! When we have it all planned." Something had occurred which led me to think that my plans for the evening would be changed. The next is from our sister, Euth. " Hello. May we go with you, if we will be quiet ?" I wish to use, from time to time, some of the messages she gives us, in order to show something of her nature, and why she was first called ' ' Sunbeam. ' ' There is surely a reason! The message on March 26th is also from her, and is beautiful in its mean- ing. She must have been in touch with many of those of the spirit world who were present during the service; and it will also be noticed that another little trick of hers is to imitate people, as may be remembered in one or two instances in the first book. March 26th. "How do you do this finest evening? Did not we have a great time last evening with the little ladies in gray? And isn't it nice to hear them say, ' Bless you, my sister. Art thou well?' And another will say, SECOND LETTERS FROM ROY 13 ' Yea, always well, because health comes from God.' " March 27th. "Earl says he wishes his mother could hear that. ' ' (A song.) Q. Is he here tonights Ans. "Yes. Going back when we get through with this." To his home in Taunton, probably. The next is from Euth. "Hello. There is company with Eoy tonight, so I'll be very cautious!" (Then Eoy.) "Just listen to her! She thinks Earl is fine because he loves his mother so well. Play something for him before he goes, dad. Marches, same as I like. Don't play anything sad." This boy is the one mentioned in February, 1917, and who passed on very suddenly. Eoy has been able to help him a great deal, we find, and we our- selves, with their assistance, have been able to help his mother. March 28th. ' ' . Ministers situated as he is will be glad to get my book." (He refers to a pastor from whose family a boy had within a short time passed over.) March 29th. This was the anniver- sary of the evening on which Eoy was 14 SECOND LETTERS FROM ROY taken sick. "You are beginning on a new era. Say, ma, how does dad know what I had for supper? (In answer to a remark.) You would not know." This was in answer to a question as to what it was. March 30th. The anniversary of the night on which he passed to the larger life. "The Almighty Power of Spirit has put all our affairs in Divine order. I am glad this is 1917 instead of 1916. We have all learned something since. You are getting onto our ways of reck- oning time." I cannot describe this sensation clearly on paper, and must leave it for each one to discover for him- self. March 31st. "May 17th. (Please do not forget this date, when reading through the record.) A good many in Taunton know about our wireless. Can't keep it dark. Ma was told that long ago." AprS 1st. "Much doing with us, as I told you there would be. I told you more were going. More almost every day. was needed over here more than you were, you see. (After a few personal messages he paused, and apparently had left the board.) Some- SECOND LETTERS FROM BOY 15 one going now." " Hello. Roy has gone a little while. (Ruth.) Will be back for Church. He was happy when he went." Her explanation shows that Roy had left us, after saying that someone was passing out of this fife. He apparently had gone to be present during the change, and was pleased because he would be able to greet them. April 2nd. "H is so tired he doesn't realize yet. Probably thinks he is dreaming. His brother thinks their loss is the worst there ever was. Mrs. Conant is very much brighter to- day. She says she must find what you have got. You ought to see Earl. (Her boy, who passed over in February.) She feels him with her tonight. Will hear good news this week, I think." April 5th. "We are going some nowadays. I know a lot more than I did a year ago, and I think you do. H is very much taken with this life. He can still be doing things. Not at all as he had been told." April 10th. " ' Every day is a fresh beginning. All the past things are past and over. Prayers are done and 16 SECOND LETTERS FROM ROY tears are shed. Yesterday's errors let yesterday cover.' " April 15th. Some question was asked relating to the war. " You know I told you to wait. Well, they are fix- ing the Kaiser, and the others are scared blue, although they feel that they must fight, and that is all they know. Out of it all will come democracy." April 17th. Father had gone to a circle, and after some personal messages Roy said, "I went, too, and I am going back. If I cannot make her tell him about us I shall think I am no good at making impressions on ladies!" I may mention in passing that this medium did tell father about Roy, that night, and gave him a beautiful mes- sage, relating to the fact that Roy was simply lent to us for a time, and that his life but touched this physical world very lightly, for the reason that he was so very spiritual. It is surely very true. April 18th. During the sitting we were speaking of a certain man, and whether or not he was familiar with the fundamentals of Spiritualism. "He has heard of such things before, but SECOND LETTEES FROM ROY 17 never gave it a thought. Had too much on his mind. You find more that way than any other. Don 't stop to think un- less they have to." April 19th. " Little boy drowned to- day. (Upon reading the next morn- ing's paper we discovered that the case referred to happened in Milton, near Mattapan, Mass., our home.) "Everyone has a band, unless they are too bad, and then they are watched closely from a distance, unless there are others of the same kind, associated with them, who have previously passed over here, and then they are guarded. (Speaking about people in this life be- ing guided, and each one having many helpers.) "People in your life can have all the help they ask for, but they cannot have it to hurt or cheat anyone else." April 21st. "Things are delayed be- cause of minds in a turmoil. You could not stand being around as you used to, ma. People are so foolishly stirred up. (Here he named a boy whom I know, and who had fallen out of a tree, on April 19th, while putting out a flag. I asked Roy if the boy were badly hurt.) He is pretty bad some ways. I did not 18 SECOND LETTERS FROM ROY go that way, or didn't drown. Can't you see how favored you are?" April 22nd. "Aunt Nellie says, ' Carrie, all's for the best, if a man would but know it; Providence tenderly gov- erns the rest, and the frail bark of his creature, is guiding wisely and warily, all for the best.' 'Let your light so shine before men. ' (I spoke of a sermon heard that morn- ing, in a certain Episcopal Church, the tendency of which was to border very closely on the connection of the two worlds, and which pleased me very much.) " That's what we want, and more. Good for a starter." April 24th. "You will be surprised when you hear from Euss." An explanation is in order. We had previously written to the man men- tioned to ask his advice concerning the publication of Roy's book, which was at that time somewhat undecided. As I write this, it is the twenty-seventh of August, 1917, and no word had been re- ceived from him as yet. We could not understand it. Yesterday, August 26th, father was at the Lake Pleasant Camp Meeting, SECOND LETTERS FROM ROY 19 and, through a very singular chain of circumstances was led around to a cer- tain house. He was extremely sur- prised to find the man above mentioned there, said he had not received either of our two letters, was much pleased to know of the work, and, being connected with a paper, wished to review the book for it! Another indication of the fact that with the dropping of the physical body the spiritual eyesight becomes much clearer! April 25th. " There will be many changes in 7. You would be surprised could you know some of them." April 26th. "H. Y. is very much interested." Here he named a man who was reading our manuscript, to pass judgment upon it. April 28th. "The book needs to go where I have been. W W says they are going to have a big time on the Green, Sunday. We will be there. (I asked him if he would not like to 'Bowl a string,' as we had done many times while he was here.) Ha, Ha! You think I don't have any fun that way. Well, now, you watch Roy and I some time. Roy could not do it while there. 20 SECOND LETTERS FROM ROY Lack of physical strength. You ought to see him now." For fear that some might miscon- strue the meaning of the foregoing, per- haps I had best explain that Mr. Waite meant that now Roy was not handi- capped by his sickly physical body, but was free to enjoy what he liked. So far as the bowling is concerned, it should be understood that of course his enjoyment did not consist of the exer- cise personally, but that it lay in his ability to associate himself spiritually with those whom he liked, who were playing the game. It is taken for granted that the ma- jority will so understand it, but the explanation is given to prevent any pos- sible chance that his message be mis- construed. April 29th. " Abide with Me" was played on the Victrola. "We are go- ing to use that same hymn twice more that we know of. Tell J that I have not gone away at all. Tell her that this is life; that death is only birth into real life ' ' Later— "i" Love to Tell the Story" was played. "That's what the birds do. You will hear good tidings soon. SECOND LETTEKS FROM ROY 21 There is something doing in our circles all the time. Does not get monotonous, like your life. You would be surprised to know some of the people who are looking into the Spirit life." May 1st. " Write to Mrs. ., and tell her what she wants to know. That Earl and I are together a good deal, and that we had work to do that no one else could do. That we had accomplished all that we could in that life, and that we are trying to do our work here, al- though handicapped by human beings, who eventually will understand, and are beginning to understand now. " May 3rd. "Oh, say! Wait till ma wakes up here. We expect a lot of fun and questions/ ' May 5th. We spoke of Taunton. ' ' I can go down there as quick as I used to go to the Green, and stop on the way, too ! Some talking down there. You Ve put most everyone on. What you haven't done, the 's and 's have. Some are willing to believe it, and some say, i Their heads are turned.' But then, you would not care what those people thought! " and , and numerous other ones expected it. Mr. Howard said, 22 SECOND LETTERS FROM ROY 'Well, if anyone ever did talk with their friends, they will. ' Something stewing down that way! You'll hear about it soon. Being stirred up. Eeady to cook! Wait till gets it. What if I send you to see him? Say, he'd be crazy if he saw my book. (Shall I go to see him ?) Wait. I 'm fixing things. ' ' May 6th. After Roy had finished, Ruth came on. "Hello. I've been out to see some fine girls, who think they have lost their mother. (Do you have to help people now?) Oh, I have to do my work. I do not play every hour!" May 7th. 6 ' William Brown likes Mr. T very much. You tell him for me that I send love to him, and that things are dawning bright for him. Tell him there were some fine spirits there Sun- day who never met him in your life, but were much pleased to call on him, and will call again when he wants them to." This man had read the manuscript of our first volume on the Sunday men- tioned. May 8th. "Now what do you think of Grandma Flanders and I for plan- ning? You know I talked H. Y. some time before you met him. (We spoke SECOND LETTERS FROM ROY 23 of a young man, to whom mother had given a little idea of our work.) You sowed the seed for me. That's gone farther than you could ever guess. I did not say half that I wanted to in Taunton. I am going to finish it!" May 11th. "We share our mutual joys. (We spoke of a certain man, passed on.) He came in, arm in arm with C . (C was a passenger conductor on the New Haven, very jolly. I made some joking remark to him, and Roy let him use the board.) Well, now, you had better go easy, or I'll put you off! (Then Roy.) Say, that's great! I pushed him in. (We spoke of an Indian girl, about whom we had re- ceived a recent message.) She has been with you more than once. Sun- set's sister. He works quietly. That's why he is such a favorite. You could not do without him. His sister's name is Wanda. Sometimes they call her Sunbeam. That's why we took that name for Ruth." May 12th. We were speaking of various Taunton people. "Some say, 'Well, they can't all be crazy. One might, but it is all of them ! ' (We spoke of the different ways in which people 24 SECOND LETTEKS FKOM KOY were taken out of this life.) Some are taken with the heart, some with the head, some indigestion, etc. (I said, well, Roy, I suppose I will go with brain fever!) You know I told you not to worry! (Shortly before this he had, through a medium, laid great stress on the fact that I was not to worry about anything. He was not at all slow in seizing the chance I gave him!) You want to tell Uncle Herbie that." May 13th. " Robert will tell you what to say to Virtie. He is the same class as I am. Earle is in Leon's class. (Q. By ourselves?) Your kind are, in a way. Henry and others, and my- self, can never be in a class by our- selves. Alan is in Leon's. D is not. More tonight." Later — The Robert mentioned in the preceding paragraph is the husband of Virtie, and had passed over, shortly be- fore this time. Mother had written his wife a note, intended to help her in her hour of trouble. " Robert said, 'Well, my girl will be very glad of that, and she will have one good cry, and then she will keep what you said in mind. She will find her- self listening for me, and, as she is very SECOND LETTERS FROM ROY 25 impressionable she will receive them; so, instead of constant despair, the star of hope will gradually dawn for her.' "He wants me to thank each one of you for your part. That is all he can say now. often thinks of the let- ter, (To a relative of ours) and, al- though he can't fully understand yet, I put him to thinking, and he is not sorry I wrote it. "I am going to give you a message for Miss . She will not be sur- prised. She has been expecting some- thing of the kind. Tell her that it did not take long for you to begin to find out why I went out of the body, and that you are not unhappy, although your life is so different in every way, because I have given you such an insight into the future life, and that I shall probably give you more for her. Tell her that this life is different from what most peo- ple think while they are in the body. I should say the physical body, for I have a body, and it's not sick half the time!" May 14th. " 'Who hath not found the Heaven below, will fail of it above. God's residence is next to mine, His furniture is Love.' Alan, Henry, and lots of others were there when he 26 SECOND LETTERS FROM ROY came." He refers to the passing of a Catholic priest, a fine character. " does not think much of your staying in the house and doing this sort of work all the time. He says so. I know it is not hurting you, but he can- not understand just how you feel. A prominent Catholic, who went down in the Titanic. He came the other day, when you first got that. (Speaking of the song, ' Asleep in the Deep,' which had come strongly to mother.) "Hope is your star, ma. It's bright, too." May 17th. This was the date on which a definite decision was reached concerning the publication of Roy's first book. "GK S. is right happy, and I won't say anything about your humble ser- vant! Psychological momenta I told you G and I would wake folks up. Barrett. He is very much interested in us, to have had the courage. This is some night for us!" May 19th. "I am going to let my — note that my — friend come and try this board, Mr. H . (The following is from Reverend Dr. H , formerly of Brockton, Mass.) SECOND LETTERS FROM KOY 27 "I want to tell you something about this, or any other subject. Do not let it occupy your entire time and mind, but develop all sides of your character and body. You will be one-sided if you do otherwise. (Q. Have you ever used a board before ?) I never did. It is very interesting, if used in the right way. Do not be afraid of evil spirits coming. They cannot get through your lines now. I think I will go now, as you have others. Good evening. ' ' The next is from Roy. "He surely can speak from knowledge about de- velopment. (As those who knew him in this life can testify.) Tell Phil, old boy, I wish he could see us as well as we can see him. Go to the Hall. (While in Taunton.) You will see someone you don't expect." This proved true, and in a very concrete form. May 20th. c i ' Come ye, buy wine and food, without money; and without price, for it is the Father's good pleasure to give you the Kingdom.' (This was given by Sylvan Hunting, whose name was given to Roy for a middle name.) You have my namesake, I see. He and grandma are together lots. That is when you folks get going! 28 SECOND LETTERS FROM ROY " Don't be afraid today. You know what you have got." Later — " Guess we will have to send the kid down to , as missionary! Give it to them straight. You must re- member you are not doing this all by your lonesome, so just keep your eyes on us, and we will do the rest. That came from — guess. G. S. and H. R." May 21st. " thinks she is firm in her belief, but I feel sure that she will think some more. Mrs. is interested." May 22nd. We had a friend present during this session, one whom we had not seen for nearly ten years, and I shall record such messages as may be of interest. This friend is one who has given much thought to the development of the higher powers, and was of course much interested in our work, especially as she had not seen us since before Roy had passed over. She felt inclined to ask some few questions, and, without repeating them, I shall give his answers. "The tide has turned for you. How does life strike you these days? Don't let it. Better things coming. You will have to talk before you think of do- ing so, and when you do, you will make SECOND LETTERS FROM ROY 29 an impression. Let us do the fixing up, and you just stop thinking for a time, and, when you talk, God will give you the message. (She asked a question concerning one particular branch of thought.) If the Truth is there, it can- not be hidden. There is One who is all Truth. He speaks to every soul in the silence, and He will never fail. I will tell more about that, but I cannot hurry an answer to so deep a question. I must have time, and if I get it before you come again, I will ask Leon to write, because you might get the wrong idea, very easily. Your aunt can answer your questions for you, if you will stop and listen, just before sleeping, and while you are alone. You have ex- pressed a wish to hear from them, and you will have to listen. You will find yourself listening, and you will under- stand better all the time. Good night. " May 26th. " 'Man does not live by bread alone.' (Then Ruth.) Hello. May I go, to take care of my brothers'? Don't forget to tell them about the book! (I was going to Taunton the next day. The next is from Roy.) A year from now, or less, according to their faith, they will all see that life 30 SECOND LETTEES FROM ROY very differently. (He refers to certain friends of ours.) Tell her that Earl is happier tonight than he has been be- fore. He says he will talk to her. Per- haps she will be able to get it better just before going to sleep, and on awak- ing. Tell her that Earl is as anxious to do as much for her as I have been for ma. Tell her that she need not be ashamed to go to a Spiritualist meeting; the best people are following it up, and, once begun, I don't know how they can stop, unless they are afraid of getting found out!" May 27th. "Land of the True. J. H. C. says there is very little truth in the earth life. Tell M I am glad she goes to the Spiritualist meetings. Tell her that if they would start girls and boys in this belief from the cradle, the way ma did me, that life, while in the physical body would be truer and sweeter. But parents are apt to get careless, living for that life alone, and thinking about this one on Sundays for an hour or two, and at funerals !" Later — "You know when you tell folks not to say anything, they can't tell it quick enough." May 30th. " 'Fear not — I have re- SECOND LETTEKS FKOM KOY 31 deemed thee; I have called thee by thy name. When thou passest through the waters I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee; when thou walkest through the fire thou shalt not be burned, neither shall the flame kindle upon thee. For I am the Lord thy God, the Holy One of Israel, thy Savior.' " June 1st. The Boston Commandery March was played on the Victrola. "You get a lot of nice boys when you play this one. Grandma W has been trying to make herself known. She is so pleased that you wrote to Byron, ma. Hello, my dears. (Ruth.) I hurried to get here. Yes, I've been very busy." June 3rd. " 'And there shall be no night there.' Night means darkness, and don't you see, when you are < there?' "They cannot carry their evil with them, and if they have not had enough, they will have to begin all over again in your life." From the foregoing, it appears that one who has not used his life rightly while here is not allowed to enter the 32 SECOND LETTERS FROM ROY next, but is sent back, as one might say, to learn his lesson. This apparently is the extent to which re-incarnation is carried, and, I hope, may help to settle the question for a good many, who, even as ourselves, have not always fully understood the ques- tion as to whether or not each soul re- turns to the physical again and again. To me the solution is simple and sat- isfactory. Looking at the question in such a general way as to grasp the en- tire subject, so far as our mortal minds can grasp it, it is nothing more than the old, old story of the soul's progression. In school, as we learn our lessons in a certain grade, or class, we are advanced. If the lessons are not learned, we are kept back; and I believe that the sensa- tion must be similar, but of course on a much greater scale, to that of the child who, having played or wasted his time throughout the year, sees his chums and companions pass on to the next grade, to larger studies, and to different sur- roundings. That is the lesson, and lesson it is, for it must be learned, and by each one. As Eoy said in his first book, on Febru- ary 22nd, "You have got to stand on SECOND LETTERS FROM ROY 33 your own feet. Everyone has got to learn their own lessons, either in your life or this one; and the sooner they be- gin the better it will be for them." When the world as a whole learns it, the difference between that time and this, as regards general conditions, can hardly be imagined; but let each one work for it, by doing their own little bit. If that is done faithfully by each indi- vidual, the whole will be well taken care of. "Oh, Thou Eternal One, Whose Pres- ence bright All space doth occupy, all motion guide — " "I simply want to introduce myself. Dr. Gt . I will give you more of that when you wish." Dr. O was formerly a pastor in Boston, Mass., and for those who may read these pages who knew him, no words of mine are necessary. For those unacquainted with him, I feel that after they have read his messages, scattered throughout the rest of tins book, they will know him, and know him as he is, one of the truest, most manly and thoroughly Christian workers known. It has surely been a great pleasure to 34 SECOND LETTERS FROM ROY us to have had his help in our work, to- gether with that of several others men- tioned from time to time, and I have the greatest confidence that his words will please and help many who read them. June 4th. Roy's birthday. "See what pretty flowers I got for my birthday. (Then Ruth.) Miss Ruth Stevens. I registered! No draft gets me!" On the next day I was to regis- ter for the United States Army draft. June 5th. This sitting was opened with Dr. Gr handling the mes- sage board. He finishes the verse that he began on June 3rd. He occupied a part of many evening sittings in giving the poem, verse by verse, but I shall give it complete, in order to preserve its beautiful message without a break. The poem is called "God", was writ- ten by Derzhavin, and after Dr. G- commenced to give it, we located a copy of it, which was clipped from a daily paper some time ago. I am very glad that it is our privilege to give it here, coming as it has through the board, from one well advanced in the Spirit world, this former Boston pastor, but I also want to place the au- SECOND LETTEKS FROM ROY 35 thorship properly. It is a beautiful and wonderful poem, which mother heard given in connection with a ser- mon in Roxbury, Mass., years ago. This was the reason that she saved the copy now in our possession, never thinking of the use to which it would be put later on. 36 SECOND LETTERS FROM ROY GOD. By Derzhavin. "O, Thou eternal One, whose presence bright All space doth occupy, all motion guide; Unchanged through time's all-devastating flight! Thou only God — there is no God beside! Being above all beings! mighty One, Whom none can comprehend and none explore; Who fill'st existence with Thyself alone, Embracing all, supporting, ruling o'er; Being whom we call God, and know no more! In its sublime research philosophy May measure out the ocean deep, may count The sands or the sun's rays ; but, God ! for Thee There is no weight nor measure; none can mount Up to Thy mysteries; Reason's brightest spark, Though kindled by Thy light, in vain would try To trace Thy counsels, infinite and dark; And thought is lost ere thought can soar so high, Even like past moments in eternity. Thou from primeval nothingness didst call First chaos, then existence; Lord, on Thee Eternity hath its foundation; all Sprung forth from Thee — of light, joy, harmony, Sole origin — all life, all beauty Thine; Thy word created all, and doth create; Thy splendor fills all space with rays divine; Thou art and wert and shalt be! Glorious! Great! Life-giving, life-sustaining Potentate! Thy chains th' unmeasured universe surround — Upheld by Thee, by Thee inspired with breath! Thou the beginning with the end hast bound, And beautifully mingled life and death! As sparks mount upward from the fiery blaze, So suns are born, so worlds spring forth from Thee; And, as the spangles in the sunny rays Shine round the silver snow, the pageantry Of heaven's bright army glitters in Thy praise. SECOND LETTEES FKOM BOY 37 A million torches, lighted by Thy hand, Wander unwearied through the blue abyss; They own Thy power, accomplish Thy command, All gay with life, all eloquent with bliss. What shall we call them? Piles of crystal light — A glorious company of golden streams — Lamps of celestial ether burning bright — Suns lighting systems with their joyous beams? But Thou to these art as the noon to night. Yes, as a drop of water in the sea, All this magnificence in Thee is lost; What are ten thousand worlds compared to Thee? And what am I then? Heaven's unnumbered host, Though multiplied by myriads, and arrayed In all the glory of sublimest thought, Is but an atom in the balance, weigh'd Against Thy greatness — is a cipher brought Against infinity! What am I then? Nought! Nought! but the effluence of Thy light divine, Pervading worlds, hath reach'd my bosom, too; Yes, in my spirit doth Thy spirit shine As shines the sunbeam in a drop of dew. Nought! yet I live, and on hope's pinions fly Eager toward Thy presence; for in Thee I live and breathe and dwell; aspiring high, Even to the throne of Thy divinity. I am, O God! and surely Thou must be. Thou art — directing, guiding all — Thou art! Direct my understanding then to Thee; Control my spirit, guide my wandering heart; Though but an atom 'midst immensity, Still I am something, fashioned by Thy hand; I hold a middle rank 'twixt Heaven and Earth, On the last verge of mortal being stand, Close to the realms where angels have their birth, Just on the boundaries of the spirit land! 38 SECOND LETTERS FROM ROY The chain of being is complete in me, In me is matter's last gradation lost, And the next step is spirit — Deity! I can command the lightning, and am dust! A monarch and a slave, a worm, a god! Whence came I here, and how? so marvelously Constructed and conceived? unknown! this clod Lives surely through some higher energy; For from itself alone it could not be! Creator, yes; Thy wisdom and Thy word Created me; Thou source of life and good; Thou spirit of my spirit, and my Lord, Thy light, Thy love, in their bright plentitude Filled me with an immortal soul, to spring Over the abyss of death, and bade it wear The garments of eternal day, and wing Its heavenly flight beyond this little sphere, Even to its source — to Thee — its Author there. O, thoughts ineffable! O, visions blest! Though worthless our conceptions all of Thee, Yet shall Thy shadow'd image fill our breast, And waft its homage to Thy Deity. God! thus alone my lowly thoughts can soar, Thus seek Thy presence — Being wise and good! 'Midst Thy vast works admire, obey, adore; And when the tongue is eloquent no more The soul shall speak in tears of gratitude." SECOND LETTERS FROM ROY 39 The next messages are significant, and I feel that I should explain their meaning, so far as is necessary, or so far as I am able. On the Sunday pre- ceding this, I had attended a meeting, and had received a message from a woman on the other side, whom I could not then place. Her message was correct, and, with- out going into details, or personalities, I may say that it dealt with the work that was to be mine, that is, my little share in the great work of opening the doors between the two worlds. The connection between the reading as given to me, and the following mes- sages from Roy, is so intermingled with personalities that it is best that I give no explanation other than the above, un- less it should be seen best later on to do so. "Mary Baker Eddy thought that she had found the only religion, but real- ized, when she came to consciousness, that she had founded a cold religion, in- stead of what the loving Son of God taught. She says tell the world that when they get to this life they realize that all is pure love ; that the earth life is only a small beginning; that some 40 SECOND LETTERS FROM ROY souls have to re-incarnate to that life because of their utter disregard of the God-love which Christ taught. The whole world is striving and struggling, each in his own way, for the truth. They have been put off with promises and led by the nose as long as they are willing to bear it." I cannot judge of the reception which may be given this message by some of her followers, but I do feel that if I were to hold it back that I would be do- ing a great wrong. If some should receive it with dis- favor, I cannot help it, because I am sure that the ones who can be helped by it are the ones to be considered. I may be crossing my bridge prematurely; and of course I hope no one will take ex- ception, but that all will try to under- stand that I have simply tried to help, without the slightest intention of caus- ing the least feeling on anyone's part. June 6th. "And you know ma said we would not have the poem! He laughed and said perhaps we will." Roy refers to Dr. G , with relation to a verse of the poem given on June 5th. "If Jesus came to earth I suppose SECOND LETTERS FROM ROY 41 some would call Him a molly-coddle, but His very gentleness shows His firmness. "I wonder what some of the people in your life would say, could it be revealed to them what this life is. No fighting nor enviousness; no back-biting, and no jealousy. When we enter here we drop all those things, and if one tries to carry them with him, he is sent back for an- other trial at school." "Hello. (Ruth.) Oh, my. IVejust got home. (Where have you been 9) Way out to Whitman. Billy (our cat) must come in nights. He gets crazy when we try to talk to him out of doors." June 7th. "Say, ma, the Doctor is fine. (Dr. Gr .) He is around lots when you don't know it." At about this time, someone in our neighborhood had gotten things badly tangled, and perhaps having heard my typewriter running evenings, had also heard something of our work; the result was that a young boy asked me one day if we had a wireless in our house! I said no, and then it struck me as to how a person absolutely ignorant of the subject might have been mistaken. As Eoy said in his first book, I 42 SECOND LETTEES FROM ROY thought I should split! When I told mother and father, we had the time of our lives! We have a wireless, all right, but I use this incident to show how some ex- tremely funny cases sometimes start! I suppose that whoever it was that started it, had heard that we were " Talking with spirits" and, having heard my machine going, thought that that was the method used. I wish I could explain our feelings when we found out! If laughter" aids digestion, we surely needed no stomach-tablets that night! When we spoke of it during the sit- ting, Roy said, 1 6 Say ! That 's the worst I've heard yet!" June 10th. The first is from Ruth. "I am 14 today. I am glad Leon is go- ing where he is this morning. " She re- fers to the fact that I was going to church, in comparison with an automo- bile party about which we had heard. They were going on a picnic, and even a terrific rain failed to stop them! " All sorts of people mixed up, trying to have a good time ! WAIT! (Spelled very slowly and meaningly.) George says it has come to a pretty pass when SECOND LETTEKS FROM KOY 43 people get so crazy! Where is the pattern? Haven't any. Wandering around like lost sheep. Henry says, 'I was a busy man and never had any in- clination to sport, especially on Sun- days.' " It is very evident that our friends on the other side did not approve of the aforesaid picnic, that is, on a Sunday, because it was not right to abuse the Seventh day. Roy always liked a good time, and was as full of fun, before he was sick, as anyone, but he never liked to see things done which were not right. "No one ought to do just as they please with their time and lives, and then expect just what they want, and all at once. That is not the Master's way, because He is too wise and too far- seeing. "George says he hopes you two will look out for some designing people while doing this work. You would be surprised to know the people who are designing. Tou have to build an invisi- ble wall around yourselves to scare them off. We are talking of the future. "You came here for dad to get the right exercise, for ma to have quiet, and 44 SECOND LETTERS FROM ROY for you to have a chance to do this work." This was in answer to a remark that mother had made that day, concerning the fact that it was a good thing that we were in a house by ourselves, because the continual noise of my typewriter would of course have been very annoy- ing to another family beside ourselves. He has given three excellent reasons for placing us in our present home, about which considerable will be found in the first book, and, as I look back over the past year, it is amazing to see the man- ner in which we have been placed here, step by step. It is but another illus- tration of the way and manner in which 'The guiding hand of Providence' can be demonstrated in every one's life. "Poor ma. I am not bothered with my teeth. " Hers were aching. June 12th. "Mr. C. says Good Evening. (Where has he been*?) Cal- ifornia. (Any more sunshine there than here? Don't blame you for get- ting away from this climate!) Make your own sunshine, and you make it for others. Catching, same as the blues!" June 13th. We spoke of a certain pageant. "I do not miss things of that SECOND LETTEKS FROM ROY 45 kind, any more than I ever did. I can go now and you do not worry, and I do not come home all in. "I have been surprised at the way you have all listened to me since I made the change. You would be surprised, could you know the people who will not listen. "E says how is Roy's book com- ing? He knows more about it than you do ! (Someone here remarked concern- ing the control of our spirit friends over us, especially while we here in the earthly bodies are asleep; and that those on the other side must have a lot of fun, making impressions on people here.) Heaps! You wait till you can try it!" June 15th. "All of that life is a dream. You will waken some day. My life there was somewhat troubled, but there is no trouble now. Entering this life is so wonderful, you could not real- ize it if I did my best to make it plain. The cleaner, more upright you live there, the better will be your home here." June 17th. ' ' ' There 's a Land that is Fairer than This. ' Wilhelm has lots to answer for. The Germans whom he 46 SECOND LETTERS FROM ROY can't bluff hate him worse than any- other nationality could do." It had been raining that morning, and Ruth told me to "be careful and not step on the little worms!" June 18th. A beautiful day, and a holiday in Boston, Mass. "Leon has had a better time than he would have had on the cars. (Working in the gar- den.) Packed going and coming. Some wanted to get in, others wanted to get out! H asked me this morning if I wanted to take a look over the road, so of course I said yes. So we took a trip up the Northern lines. We did not get among the crowd, or wait for con- nections!" Mother and I did not wait for father to come in and take down the messages as I called them off to him, as is our cus- tom, but I was doing the writing, as well as using the board with mother. Father was out in the yard, talking with another man. "Buth is buzzing in dad's ear, but I don't think he knows it. She says she cannot buzz harder than that man can ! ' ' (After a short while she came.) "Hello. No use ! I cannot get my dad SECOND LETTERS FROM ROY 47 in this house! He knows it is time, too!" June 19th. We were talking of Roy, and his habits. "They did not know what a fine lad I was until I put one over on them! (This touched mother's feelings.) Well, now, how did I do that? Oh, you don't know, and I can't tell you, much as I should like to, any- thing about what a time we will have when we all get over on this golden shore. u O. K. I got to do some correspon- dence work!" Many times have we heard him make g this remark before starting upstairs to his studies, and it is a strong link in the chain that binds the family together; because it brings such a natural feeling into the work, that we cannot help but realize how near, even if invisible, is the next life. June 22nd. " ' Letters from Roy' will travel all around this old globe. We are all too pleased to express our feelings tonight." He is referring to another step forward regarding his book. June 23rd. "Tell in my next book about Fluffy!" 48 SECOND LETTERS FROM ROY And I think this is the time to do it. Some weeks before this, he said, "Earl calls your fern Fluffy Ruffles/' Just before we moved from Taunton to Bos- ton, in 1916, mother had a small fern. It was very small, and not much to speak of, but she was trying, in spite of the fact that it was not very flourishing, to raise it and have it presentable. A short while before Roy passed over, he said to mother, "You are going to take that fern to Boston, aren't you? We can raise it there. " She of course did as he had asked. It was soon noticed that the plant was showing an improvement, which has been continual, until now it is a large, handsome, spreading fern, which causes all who see it to remark upon its unusual size and beauty. Now comes the most interesting part of the story — after Roy had told us what Earl called our fern, he told us to tell Earl's folks about it. When I did so, I was extremely surprised to learn that while Earl was in the body he had often called one of his sisters Fluffy Ruffles. I saw the point at once, and then told them that Roy had instructed me to tell about it. It was a neat little link in the chain SECOND LETTEKS FROM ROY 49 of evidence which was being accumu- lated, and was of value in helping Earl's family to realize that he was just as much a boy as he ever was. After this evening's first message, concerning Fluffy, we heard a sharp rap on the jardiniere which contains the plant. I said, "Good girl." Eoy said on the board, "No." I said, "Good boy, then." Eoy said, "No, no, no!" So I gave up the attempt to classify it! June 24th. I was going to Taunton. " It 's going to be a fine day. If it clears away, let Leon go and play! (Then Eoy.) She said it. "Give everyone that you think will believe that I sent it, my love. If you see Capt. D , tell him this is the life for me ! I am as happy as can be. Tell him about the book. It's the old fel- lows who know it won't be long, that need enlightenment." June 25th. "So you feel better, now that you know is on my side. I laughed when ma was doubtful. I knew, all right, I also knew . (Naming another man, to whom I showed an announcement of our book, and who, to my inward amusement, met 50 SECOND LETTERS FROM ROY it with a very frosty reception!) Just wait a while. His time is coming." June 26th. With reference to the first book. " Hallelujah! Tis done. Many will deny the truth of it, but didn't they deny Christ 1 And haven't they kept on denying Him all this time? And always will as long as they are in the mortal ?" June 27th. " ' Large are the man- sions in thy Father's dwelling.' Oh, I'm pleased at the way things are go- ing." Just before this message he named our next door neighbor, and just as he started the word pleased, this same neighbor rang the door bell, and brought in a beautiful bouquet of roses. "How do you like the roses? 0. K. (I had planned to go up to his room and write, after our sitting.) ' Write unto the Seven Churches.' I say unto you, joy shall be in Heaven and on this old earth. It's time they realized that whatever you might have done, you could not have kept me in that life any longer." June 28th. ' ' Say, dad, you tell S this has just been waiting. I knew how he felt. I said to myself, wait till the SECOND LETTERS FROM ROY 51 right time comes. Although it's been pretty hard to wait. I knew he thought I was dead. Well, I'm not. I am liv- ing in a well body this time. I never felt like other boys when in that other body. It used to make me mad some- times because I could not do the things they did. Ma knows. Some people said they did not know what my folks were thinking of, letting me work. Well, now, I can tell them that if ma and I had known how it was with me, we would both have gone, double quick! I wanted to work. Ma could not keep me at home. Tell him I'm very happy in our home. Yes, I'm here, and in the station sometimes, but I have to take care of my brother, so I'm pretty busy! (Eather an indication that I need a caretaker about all the time !) Tell him I can go where I want to now, and of course he will know that I should never want to go to places that are bad. Tell him any time he would like to come out here, he will find us all here ! And I wish he would read my book. "All right. Cross over now! Other track ! Now for Miss S . (A wom- an who had asked me if Roy could find something of hers which had been lost.) 52 SECOND LETTERS FROM ROY Tell her I'm sorry, but that is not in my line. There are plenty who could answer those questions, but I don't have time. I wish I could please her, but I cannot." "Hello. (Ruth.) Oh, dear me! Roy had so much this time." Please notice the kindly way in which Roy has answered Miss S , and showed her that his time was entirely taken up with the Spiritual side of the subject, but that there were plenty of ways in which she could find out what she wished. We of course have known right along that he does not wish to begin any of that sort of work with us, because his work lies in the greater and most im- portant direction, and of course we are much pleased to know that it does, and to know that he does not care to have the material side of the subject enter so much into our work. June 29th. "Evelyn will find Ralph. ' ' More about this will be found in August. July 1st. "Hello, and how is it you are down this time in the forenoon? (Ruth. The truth is that I was down unusually early that morning, and when SECOND LETTERS FROM ROY 53 she said that, I remarked to mother that Ruth was teasing me.) Ma, I love to jolly him!" Later — "Let us try to realize that every human being is a part of God. (We spoke of a man who had passed over, who had been a follower of a cer- tain belief, and, to say the least, was strong in it. Strong to the extent that no other belief or creed stood the ghost of a show with him!) After you have passed through the change you are not rank about anything. You do not take personal prejudices with you. If you try, you are sent back. (Think that over long and deeply.) Deary me! (Ruth.) Where did my brother go to- day^ Well, he is not going to that place again." By their direction I had that day gone to a certain locality to accomplish a par- ticular purpose, and she spoke as she did because my experience had not been particularly pleasant. July 2nd. "Hello. (Ruth.) Oh, my! Everybody says it's so hot. I don't care! (Then Roy.) Tou wait till September and then see." Refer- ring to something concerning his book. July 3rd. ' 6 You would like Mar j orie. 54 SECOND LETTERS FROM ROY She is around some now, and is inter- ested. She is all sunshine. I told her what said about her. How she laughed! Big things doing soon. (Just at that moment we heard a loud rap inside of the piano, and I asked who did it.) That was George. (I then asked Ruth, it being the night before the Fourth, if she wanted a firecracker.) Do you want one?" I said I guessed not, as I distinctly remembered the time that she had handed me one in the dark room! Mention was made of this incident in the first book. July 4th. "Glad you are not riding in automobiles today. Lots of acci- dents. (Then Ruth.) My kitten does not like this day. (Because of the noise from firecrackers, etc.) (We spoke of Roy's first book.) "After they read it, two-thirds of them will want it, and the other third will be afraid their worst half will find them out ! They will steer clear of it ! Hast- ings. (Formerly a conductor on the New Haven Road.) Been busy, Steve, he says. You take the parlor car this time, don't you, he says. (Because we were sitting in the ' Parlor,' I suppose!) I did not go the way G did. (With SECOND LETTERS FROM ROY 55 much suffering.) Mine was tiresome, but not painful. Hope you will go as easy." July 5th. "Hazel. She is learning fast. Many ways of communication. Hello. (Euth.) Oh, my! I want to tell something, and Roy said no. I do as Roy wants me to ! ' ' When I told her she might tell it. July 6th. "Watch out for hints for your vacation. (As to where to go.) Hello. (Ruth.) Oh, I know some- thing, I do. Girls cannot keep as quiet as some boys!" July 8th. " will be wild about my book. Better send her an an- nouncement. Did you bake enough beans for us all this week? You know we 're all home this week ! (I was about to take my vacation.) Ruth looked out for that! You just don't worry and we will help you do the work. Hello. (Ruth.) I knew Leon would come home hungry, so I planned beans!" (Mother incidentally had by mistake cooked more beans than she had in- tended. The reason is now evident.) A moment's thought will explain why I have used this incident, as it clearly shows that for those of us here, even 56 SECOND LETTERS FROM ROY the most commonplace every-day af- fairs can be looked out for, probably a good many times without our knowl- edge. The message has its purpose, and that is to help someone to realize a little more of the absolute naturalness that is possible in the work, without confining it to altogether material ef- forts. I do not mean to imply that such close attention to detail is always neces- sary, unless so desired, but the principal idea is to know that all here are con- stantly guided and helped, and it rests with each one, as to just what sort of guides may be theirs. Enough for the beans! But I wrote as the spirit moved, and I realize as I write that the very fact of the perfectly natural help, explained as it was by Ruth, is at this moment the cause of helping me to feel even a little more natural, if possible, than before, in the work. Later — ' l Hello. (Ruth.) Now, wasn't I right about the beans? You see, IVe known you a long time! (I said that I wished I had known her longer.) You used to think I was somewhere.' ' SECOND LETTEKS FROM ROY 57 July 9th. "Aunt Mariette is very much pleased about my book. She laughed Sunday at Emily. (Someone who had read part of our first book, hav- ing casually picked it up, and had got- ten so deeply into it that she had to be spoken to three times before she heard! This in spite of the fact that she had previously been skeptical.) She said, 'No. She don't believe it, Oh, no!' " July 10th. " is anxiously watching the papers and magazines for it. He is surprised, and yet not sur- prised. You'll knock more than one out this time! "Well, they didn't get that train. I wonder why! They tried hard enough. They won't have trouble of that kind. They are too square. Nothing on that train for them. Later one good enough." He refers to two people whom we know, who had tried hard that morning to catch a certain train, which, before it reached its destination, was wrecked, one car tipping over, and one man killed. These people were evidently looked out for, and were not allowed to catch that particular train, and thereby run the risk of being hurt. 58 SECOND LETTERS FROM ROY In this connection, it occurs to me that some will ask, Why cannot more warnings be given? The only answer I can give is that there probably are many warnings which cannot be gotten across, perhaps because of the unfamiliarity of the one concerned with the nature of impressions, etc. Furthermore, devel- opments have led us to believe that in many cases such things are necessary, for some particular reason, as part of the various plans that are being worked out from the other side, and conse- quently are not always " accidents," as we call them. It is a tremendously large part of the subject, which I shall not attempt to handle, but must leave for each one to study out for themselves. July 11th. "See Mrs. H if you can. Don't scare her. Tell her I liked her, and didn't go away, as she thought. And when she gets ready to come to this side of the veil, I will be right there to say hello. It is nothing for the one who goes. (Meaning that they should not be frightened at the thought of go- ing.) Human beings will not see it in the right light. There should be re- joicing when one goes out of the physi- cal body, if one has not deliberately SECOND LETTERS FROM ROY 59 done wrong to his fellow man. Of course, such have to account in some life. Oh, say! I can't tell them half I want to!" The woman mentioned in the preced- ing paragraph passed over in Novem- ber, 1917, about four months after Roy gave her the above message, and of course it came strongly to our minds when she went. Several messages will be found about her in November, and we feel that he had a particular reason for wording his message to her as he did, as we now T look back. July 12th. " Cracker jack time to- night. (I was going to a concert.) Great time yesterday, ma, trying to pull people out of the mud! (I had on the day mentioned talked with several peo- ple about Spiritualism, and our work in that direction.) Sunbeam has gone to Abington. She went to see if they spoke of Louise and us." Later — "The abundance is waiting to be spoken unto your sight. Health, Happiness, Prosperity. Speak it for . Book coming right along. is getting hers, and she begins to think that the best laid plans of mice and 60 SECOND LETTERS FROM KOY WOMEN gang aft agley! Ruth came running and clapping her hands and said,