A correspondent of the Times, who writes with gravity and
moderation, declares that there exists in France a secret University which grants degrees in occult science, such as "licentiate in hermetic science," or "doctor in Cabala." The principal organiser of this school is a doctor named "Papua," who describes himself as a disciple of more learned biero- phants. One of these is believed to be Dr. Philippe Nizier, commonly known as Philippe, the man who has recently exercised such influence at the Russian Court, where be was introduced by "Papua," who has converted many. Russians, and some even in the Imperial family. Philippe professes ability to raise spirits and foretell events, and is said to have summoned Alexander IL to instruct and warn his grandson. The tale is told with many circumstances, and there is an a priori probability of its truth, a general diffusion of agnostic opinions being usually accompanied by a readiness to believe anything which pretends to be occult, and especially in ap- paritions. It was so in the days of Tiberius and of Louis XV. It should not be forgotten that Alexander I. had a deep mystical tinge in his intellect, and would listen for hours to the " mystic " or occultist, Madame Krudener.
Previous page
