It is as if all men were connected together by elastic cords.

If a man rises a little above the general level of his fellows, the cords tighten.

His former companions tend to draw him back, but with an equal force he draws them upwards.

The higher he gets, the more he feels the weight of the whole world pulling him back, and the more dependent he is on the divine support, which reaches him through the few who are still above him.

Highest of all are the great Prophets and Saviors, the Divine "Manifestations"-- those perfect men Who were each, in Their day, without peer or companion, and bore the burden of the whole world, supported by God alone.