| The first excerpt represents the element of Air. It speaks of mental influences and the process of thought, and is drawn from The Large Catechism by Dr. Martin Luther: nobler than obedience to father and mother, to whom God has appointed
and commanded obedience next to His own majesty; so that if God's Word
and will are in force and being accomplished nothing shall be esteemed
higher than the will and word of parents; yet so that it, too, is
subordinated to obedience toward God and is not opposed to the
preceding commandments.
Therefore you should be heartily glad and thank God that He has chosen
you and made you worthy to do a work so precious and pleasing to Him.
Only see that, although it be regarded as the most humble and despised
you esteem it great and precious, not on account of our worthiness, but
because it is comprehended in, and controlled by, the jewel and
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The second excerpt represents the element of Fire. It speaks of emotional influences and base passions, and is drawn from Domestic Peace by Honore de Balzac: sash tied close under the bosom, in imitation of Greek statues, a
pitiless fashion for those whose bust was faulty. As he cast furtive
glances at the Countess' figure, Martial was enchanted with its
perfection.
"You have not danced once this evening, madame," said he in soft and
flattering tones. "Not, I should suppose, for lack of a partner?"
"I never go to parties; I am quite unknown," replied Madame de
Soulanges coldly, not having understood the look by which her aunt had
just conveyed to her that she was to attract the Baron.
Martial, to give himself countenance, twisted the diamond he wore on
his left hand; the rainbow fires of the gem seemed to flash a sudden
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