“Certainly,” responded Henry Clay.  “Let all formalities cease.  We will partake of refreshments, and then Franklin will make him acquainted with the wonderful aids to science and humanity with which he has supplied my residence.”

As he ceased speaking, a shower of sound, like the music from the ringing of innumerable crystal bells, filled the air.  Accompanying this, and apparently descending from the ceiling, a soft light of aromatic odor diffused itself through the apartment.  This was followed by the appearance of a shining disk of amber and pearl, revolving rapidly in its descent till it reached the congregated party.  This magic circle (which Thomas Hood, who was present, facetiously termed the “wheel of fortune”) was supplied with refreshments truly supernal.  Here were fruits of most brilliant dyes; some of soft, pulpy flesh, and others of the consistency of honey; some more transparent than the diamonds of earth; others substantial, seemingly intended to supply the demands of hunger.  Here were confections resembling foam and cloud, whose very taste was elysium.  The guests ate and chatted vivaciously.  I received much information concerning the various products of this great land which were displayed upon the table.  The most luscious fruits, I considered, both in flavor and quality, were those produced on an island in the spirit land corresponding to your island of Cuba, which was under the protection of a band of spirits called the “Good Sisters.”

The company having regaled themselves at the table, arose and divided into groups, laughing and chatting like ordinary mortals.  I felt immediately attracted to a cluster of which Benjamin Franklin was the magnetic centre.  I reminded him of the duties imposed on him by our host, and told him playfully that I desired to investigate the mysteries of this wonderful palace.  He cordially acquiesced, and, in company with a few friends, we commenced our explorations.  I inquired as to the construction of the table from which we had just arisen, so superior to the cumbersome ones of earth.  “It is a very simple contrivance,” he smilingly remarked.  “You observe inserted in these twisted columns, ornamented with leaves, which support the ceiling, an electric wire, similar to that of a telegraph.  From each of these central columns, this wire connects with the upper gallery.  Here,” said he, pointing to one of the leafy ornaments, “you perceive the means of communicating.  Unobserved by you, our gracious host touched one of these springs which are connected with the crystal bells, and announced to his servants his desire for refreshments.”  “Servants!” exclaimed I.  “How singular!  I little supposed, from the religious teachings I had received, that there would be menials in heaven!”