December 24. 1678. the Narrow Bridge: A Parabolical Explication of the Eighth and Tenth Rules of the Theosophical Art.

This Night I beheld by my interiour sight A River, over which I was to pass. For beyond it there was a rich Planted Land, where all necessaries were provided to entertain those, who could come thither. There was no working, nor toil: the Inhabitants had Rest. Thus I was discoursed, (as I stood in the sight of this River) by voice: but saw no Man. Then I considered, how I might yet pass over: for there was no Boat; and the River was deep. I was very desirious to get over, but had none to help me: for it was as solitary place, where no resort was, so I sat down, resolving a while to wait, whither I might see any means for to pass over. I found my Spirit in a Praying posture, as having Faith that God would make way.

And suddenly there was a Line stretched over this River, by the appearance of One, being in white Raiment. Which One was on the other side of the River, and cried to me, to Venture upon this Line, for it was strong enough to bear me. The Line was very thick, and white as Milk. But when I saw this must be the way of my pass, I was in great jeopardy: and debated, whether or no I should adventure to walk upon it. But still the Voice from the other side cried, Fear not to come: there is a Wall on each side, which will keep from all peril; though thou canst not see it. For it is Magical, and not to be visible, till thou hast first set Faith's Foot upon the Line. Then thou shall it see. Then I desired him to get my Faith up hereunto, which yet was not strong enough.

Then I bethought my self of my Friend, and Fellow-Traveller in the narrow tract of the Spirit, that I would advise with about this adventure to see whether he would encourage me. And immediately he came to me, and was very forward to go upon the Line first: but not being skilful in the Magia, began to totter. Then a Word spake in me, Go a little apart, and consult the Mystery of this Pass. For who can walk upon this Line, till they have fully learned their Magical part? Whereupon we were Counselled, to attend the wise Sentential Proverb, who would perfect us in this Art. Which was opened to be the Root and Spring-birth of Wisdom: from whence numerous Proverbs highly profound, would be given for us to learn our Magical part by.

N.B.

With these Theosophical Rules do Harmonize the Laws of the High and Holy Calling that, are to be observed by those that are admitted into the Paradisical Land: which Laws are inserted into the little Prophetical Treatise of the Ark of Faith, Printed in the Year 1696. p. 20. Which are there Represented as the Fundamental Laws and Constitutions of the New KINGDOM, or New WORLD.