The very souls that I tread underfoot realise, as their dying gaze follows me, the possibilities with which the future is big� . Eternally secure, I carry the essence of what is cosmic � of what is divine� . I am Homer � Goethe � Shakespeare� . I am an embodiment of the same force of which Alexander, C�sar, Confucius and the Christos were also embodiments� . None so strong as to resist me.”

A sudden madness overcame Ernest at this boast. He must strike now or never. He must rid humanity of this dangerous maniac — this demon of strength. With a power ten times intensified, he raised a heavy chair so as to hurl it at Reginald’s head and crush it.

Reginald stood there calmly, a smile upon his lips� . Primal cruelties rose from the depth of his nature� . Still he smiled,