SPIRITUALISM AND THE POLICE

Press, Volume LXXII, Issue 21970, 19 December 1936, Page 20

SPIRITUALISM AND THE POLICE

TO THB rDITOB OF TH» PWSS. Sir,—Upon reading in the columns of "The Press" the letters of Messrs Peter Trolove, E. M. Lovell-Smith, and Eglon Sercombe, on "Spiritualism and the Police," one is particularly struck with the "positiveness" of the champions in these opposing camps. Now, can any one of these correspondents offer, or give proofs for investigation or verification for their assertions and beliefs? Nowadays one demands facts, not simple assertions. The Bible laws against witches show that the writer of that portion of the Scriptures, (and those lawmakers also) apparently believe in the existence of witches and their power and influence; yet their attitude surely does not prove, even the truth at all, about the existence of such spirits. If our present laws against witches were repealed, however, would this not introduce, and encourage, too, another set-class, and profession of "legalised religio parasites"; also to live off the life blood of the people? I think so. Even now it is known that America, Great Britain, and many other countries pay quite a heavy tribute to this intriguing business of spiritualism in its many attractions and forms. Our little New Zealand even does its "little bit"; and, what does anyone really get in return? I feel convinced (from much travel, thought, and experience) that should the Taw be repealed, such an "uncontrollable mushroom priesthood" would arise, that it could (and probably would) menace the home, home-life, and private, social, and even the business-life of this people. Who would then dare deny the assumption of their professionals—rrfan or woman, seer, medium, or priest—who affirm they see "things"—visions, and spirits of departed ones? Because, several well-known scientific men believe in spiritualism,' that alone >does not prove the truth of their beliefs; does it? What chance would (or has now) any believer in spiritualism really to test and prove the assertions, and of any medium, for the truth of the pictures, visions, messages and advice, etc., as tendered as the truth—by such? Now, can any of the writers mentioned even really prove there is "a kingdom," as they mention, and that this place is a fact There surely can not be any religion higher than truth —and I and others seek it, hence my now taking up your valuable space by asking these positive, sure men—where "this kingdom" they so much refer to is?— Yours, etc., A WASP. Methven, December 17, 1936.