| The first excerpt represents the element of Air. It speaks of mental influences and the process of thought, and is drawn from Betty Zane by Zane Grey: Wetzel and others say they actually saw the deed done, so I must accept it,"
said Major McColloch.
"It seems incredible!" said Alfred. "I cannot understand how a man or horse
could go over that precipice and live."
"That is what we all say," responded the Colonel. "I suppose I shall have to
tell the story. We have fighters and makers of history here, but few talkers."
"I am anxious to hear it," answered Clarke, "and I am curious to see this man
Wetzel, whose fame has reached as far as my home, way down in Virginia."
"You will have your wish gratified soon, I have no doubt," resumed the
Colonel. "Well, now for the story of McColloch's mad ride for life and his
wonderful leap down Wheeling hill. A year ago, when the fort was besieged by
 Betty Zane |
The second excerpt represents the element of Fire. It speaks of emotional influences and base passions, and is drawn from Rezanov by Gertrude Atherton: no mean inheritance, unwound and readjusted the
folds of soft batiste, that most becoming neck ves-
ture man has ever worn. He fain would have
pressed the matter of the sash, but Rezanov, most
indulgent of masters to this devoted servant, was
never patient of insistence. Jon also regretted the
powdered wig and queue, which he privately thought
more befitting a fine gentleman than his own hair,
even though the latter were thick and bright. He
said tentatively:
"I notice these Californians still wear the hair
 Rezanov |