NEW ATLANTIS. 375 



then that they should have knowledge of the lan 

 guages, books, affairs, of those that lie such a distance 

 from them, it was a thing we could not tell what to 

 make of; for that it seemed to us a condition and pro 

 priety of divine powers and beings, to be hidden and 

 unseen to others, and yet to have others open and as 

 in a light to them.&quot; At this speech the governor gave 

 a gracious smile, and said ; &quot; That we did well to ask 

 pardon f,;r this question we now asked ; for that it 

 imported as if we thought this land a land of magi 

 cians, that sent forth spirits of the air into all parts, to 

 bring them news and intelligence of other countries.&quot; 

 It was answered by us all, in all possible humbleness, 

 but yet with a countenance taking knowledge that we 

 knew that he spake it but merrily, &quot; That we were 

 apt enough to think there was somewhat supernatural 

 in this island; but yet rather as angelical than magical. 

 But to let his lordship know truly what it was that 

 made us tender and doubtful to ask this question, it 

 was not any such conceit, but Tbecause we remembered 

 he had given a touch in his former speech, that this 

 land had laws of secrecy touching strangers.&quot; To this 

 he said ; &quot; You remember it aright ; and therefore in 

 that I shall say to you I must reserve some particulars, 

 which it is not lawful for me to reveal ; but there will 

 be enough left to give you satisfaction. 



&quot; You shall understand (that which perhaps you will 

 scarce think credible) that about three thousand years 

 ago, or somewhat more, the navigation of the world, 

 (specially for remote voyages,) was greater than at 

 this day. Do not think with yourselves that I know 

 not how much it is increased with you within these 

 six-score years : I know it well : and yet I say greater 



