Reading 254-89

TEXT OF READING 254-89

Text

Date: 1/13/1936 Sex: M ReadingID: 1227

This psychic reading given by Edgar Cayce at his home on Arctic Crescent, Virginia Beach, Va., this 13th day of January, 1936, in accordance with request made by Hugh Lynn Cayce, Manager of the Ass”n for Research & Enlightenment, Inc. [See 254-89, Par. B1.]

[Edgar Cayce; Gertrude Cayce, Conductor; Gladys Davis, Steno. Hugh Lynn Cayce.]

Time of Reading 3046 Webb Avenue, 3:35 to 3:55 P. M. Eastern Standard Time. Detroit, Mich.

1. GC: You will have before you the conditions as have existed and do exist relative to the complaint and disturbance caused by Maurice Mitshkun over a psychic reading for his daughter given by Edgar Cayce through the Ass’n for Research & Enlightenment, Inc., on Nov. 21, 1935 in Detroit, Michigan [See Case [1061]]. You will consider the handling of this complaint under the Michigan Law against the illegal practice of medicine, taking into consideration the activities of Major Rayle and other members of the Detroit police force and prosecutors office. You will also consider the handling of the Association’s case being prepared to meet this complaint by Eugene O’Leary of the Washington Boulevard Bldg., Detroit, Mich. You will advise us as to the proper manner of handling this situation in order to bring the best for the psychic work of Edgar Cayce as being presented by the Ass’n for Research & Enlightenment, Inc. Answer questions.

2. EC: Is this being tried before the court here or in Detroit?

3. In considering the conditions, much must be taken into consideration from the standpoint of the presentation of psychic information, and that as relative to material law.

4. For here you have a situation, as has been given of old, where the letter of the law is - or has been - transgressed; while the spirit of the law (that maketh alive) is One.

5. Then, in meeting the situation: Consider that given by Him who said that the children of this world are wiser than the children of light.

6. Hence the preparation and the handling, then, must be from the MATERIAL angle, and presented from the material as well as from the spiritual angle - and that the organization is an ecclesiastical, research, as well as a scientific research organization, not of a sect or set - but as the LAW OF ONE!

7. In the preparations, then, many various phases should be, and are to be, considered. Not only is there to be, then, all the influence or force possible brought to bear upon the court from the material angle, but there must be a CONSISTENT presentation of the good that HAS been, MAY be, accomplished through the work of the organization! and that it has been, is, of the very nature that is claimed that the Association’s activities are, and under which claims it perform its functionings in the State in which it is incorporated as well as in States where this may be or has been presented for its activities!

8. Then, present it in that manner.

9. (Q) Is there any way in which this matter can be handled to prevent this coming to trial, if that is best for the Work? (A) As indicated, all of these influences and forces must be brought to bear from every angle; not only from the courts where the Work may have been presented, or by individuals or groups, or those in authority, or those in any other position, but from every angle!

Remember those things that have been given; that in the LETTER of the law you are guilty; in the spirit of the law; no!

In the activities, then, as indicated, use the same type of weapons for defense that would be presented, or could be, or may be, or might be, or should be, or will be, presented by those that would prosecute!

10. (Q) Should this come to trial, would you advise securing any other lawyer to assist O’Leary in representing the Association, either from Detroit or elsewhere? (A) Just as many as you can procure, whether it’s one, three, five or fifty! ALL you can procure, or can pay for!

11. (Q) Should any effort be made to regulate the publicity regarding the trial, or should advantage be taken to present favorable articles regarding the Work to the public in connection with the trial? (A) Dependent upon whether the publicity can be CONTROLLED or not! We have indicated that there would be those channels, those conditions, wherein these very circumstances would arise (as to the publicity). Also, as indicated, there have been those approaches made to the Work by those through whom such may be handled; but this will require diplomacy, it will require tact, it will require the efforts of not one but of many - in a concerted, cooperative way and manner.

And, as this can be controlled - if it can be controlled - use it! Otherwise, do not attempt to suppress nor deny; just let it take its course.

But it would be ADVISABLE to make the situations such as to be able to handle or CONTROL same, see? For if it is handled properly, it may become advantageous; not only from the newspapers but from the magazines. And if it’s been Associated Press news once, will it be again? It is in your hands! Can you handle it?

12. (Q) Would it be advisable to return the membership fee paid by Mitshkun’s friend? (A) If returned to the friend, and if returned through those (not from the Association but through those) that may be interested in same or the approach may be made through those same channels from which the approach was made at first. [Abe Warshawsky’s business associate]

13. (Q) Should any member of the Board of Trustees, or members of the Association, be asked to be present in Detroit to testify as witnesses for the Association? (A) All that may be included! Just as many as may be included! From every portion of the country! Whether they are present in person or by letter or by acclamation or how! If you are going to publicize it, publicize it properly!

14. (Q) Should Drs. Thompson [1885] and King [1063] [Osteopaths in Detroit who followed many rdgs. and got results], or either, be asked to testify for the Association? (A) Not unless it’s called. If they are called from or by those of the prosecution. For if they are called it will be through those.

Not that there is any indication that there is anything kept under cover. But, as is set forth - or should be set forth in the first premise, the information through this channel is to meet the needs of the individual, is to aid individuals in obtaining help for themselves or for their dependent ones - through EVERY source, EVERY phase, that is of the LAW OF ONE! whether it is through this, that or the other school, or through the spiritual forces within themselves! And these must ALL work together for good for ONE!

15. (Q) When would be the best time to try and have the trial set for, and before what judge? (A) Those that will come sometime in March or April.

16. (Q) Any special lawyers you would recommend to help O’Leary handle the case? (A) Any of them that are interested, or would interest themselves! There are many lawyers that are members of the Association! Approach every one of them! and if they don’t want to, don’t let ‘em! HIRED help is still just HIRED help!

17. (Q) Any special advice regarding the testimony of the following? Give points to be stressed by each: Edgar Cayce, Gertrude Cayce, Gladys Davis, Hugh Lynn Cayce, Harry Bonelli, C. W. Dillman, Guilda Krause, Abe Warshawsky, Bessie L. Warshawsky. (A) (Interrupting before names were called) All of those points to be stressed are just as we have indicated, that are to be set forth as the premise for the purpose for which the organization was and is brought in to being; and that it presents to each individual, in any State or in any line or in any endeavor of life, should be presented by EACH of these - dependent upon their interest, or that which prompted them, or that which brought them into association with the Work; their desires, that which the Work has built in their experience. And the testimony of each one of these may be classified by that PROMPTING them to become members of such a research, such a philanthropic, such an ecclesiastical organization.

18. We are through.

Reports

Reports & Follow-up

R1. 1/13/36 Background for A.R.E. Trustees by HLC when sending rdg. with note of explanation:

Edgar Cayce, Gertrude Cayce, Gladys Davis and Hugh Lynn Cayce spent part of November and part of December, 1935, in Detroit, Michigan, as guests of Mr. and Mrs. A. Warshawsky. On November 21 a Physical Reading was given for the daughter of Maurice Mitshkun [See Case [1061]]. The request for the reading was made through a friend of Mr. Warshawsky. Mr. Mitshkun did not understand the reading and felt that it did not fit his daughter’s case. After taking it to doctors who expressed no interest he presented the reading to the Detroit police department. A detective who gave an assumed name was sent to investigate. He received no reading but was given the literature describing the work of the Association. On November 30, Mr. and Mrs. Cayce, Miss Davis and H. L. Cayce were arrested for practicing medicine without a license. Mr. Mitshkun charges that promises were made regarding the cure of his daughter. This is not true and will be so proven, if necessary, by witnesses. The charge includes giving suggestions for relief of the daughter. This is technically true. The law, which is basically sound, was passed to prevent the fraudulent practice of medicine and certainly does not in spirit include the benevolent psychical research work being carried on by our Association. No claims were made regarding curing Mr. Mitshkun’s daughter, she was not present at the time the reading was given, in fact Mr. Cayce has not seen the daughter, and no treatments have been given. A postponement from the first date of trial, January 21, has been requested. It is hoped that the case will be dismissed. Any suggestions you may offer or help you may render will be appreciated.

R2. 1/17/36 See 601-12, Par. 17-A, 18-A re. attitude toward Mr. Mitshkun & testimony of Guilda Krause at trial.

R3. 1/30/36 Letter from HLC to Mr. and Mrs. Harry Goetz:

”…Enclosed you will find a reading on a situation which arose in Detroit during November of last year. The trial will be postponed to the last part of February or the first of March.

“This case is of considerable importance to the Association and to us personally. Any suggestions you may care to offer relative to handling it will be appreciated. Any connections or friends in Detroit will be most helpful.

“Through misunderstanding and ignorance the police are working on the assumption that this work has no background or basic value. I would appreciate a letter from you, Mr. Goetz, as a member of the Trustees, deploring the misunderstanding which caused such interference with the helpful psychical research work which we are carrying on…”

R4. 2/36 Suggestion of an Argument for the Cayce trial given by Dr. Hereward Carrington: ”…Laboratory tests have been made to determine whether persons in a hypnotic trance may by induced to commit crimes. The results have been negative. Place a paper dagger in a hypnotic subject’s hand, and tell him to stab someone with it, and he will do so. But place a REAL dagger in his hand, give him the same command, and he will refuse - showing that his protective subconscious mind prevents him from doing so. This also shows that the subconscious is merely part of the whole mental man, as we should expect it to be.

“In mediumistic trances, on the other hand, and peculiar psychic states, such as Mr. Cayce’s, things are different. Information is frequently given which the Psychic could not possibly have known, and which certainly did not emanate either from his own conscious or subconscious mind. Nothing is supposed to come out of the mind which did not first of all get into it - and get into it through the normal avenues of the five senses. Yet, in mediumistic and psychic states, such is often the case.

“It is this fact which differentiates the mediumistic trance from all other kindred conditions, and forced William James to say, in his PSYCHOLOGY, that the medium-trance is in a class by itself, quite different from any sort of coma, or other pathological condition.

“The intelligence, whatever it is, which gives this information, is therefore not that of the medium: and the medium cannot be held responsible for it. If this other intelligence has given medical advice, IT should be legally prosecuted, and not the subject, through whose unconscious organism this information has come. If it can be ‘caught’ then it can be prosecuted: but try and catch it!”

R5. 2/25/36 Letter from HLC to Douglas T. Johnston:

”…We arrived in Detroit this morning by train. The bond was reinstated and the trial set for Tuesday, March. 3 [See EC’s dream under 294-185, Par. 18-A]. As you suggested the charge will be shifted to one of us, my father, and he will make a plea of technical guilt. The lawyers feel that a suspended sentence can be obtained. Frankly, my father objected a bit to the plea of guilty but after discussing the matter agreed that it would be the best thing. I am to talk with the lawyers again and will advise you of the outcome of the conversation. They feel that we have a pretty good case if we care to go to trial, but that would mean publicity…”

R6. 3/16/36 See HLC’s letter to general membership outlining events, i.e., Detroit arrest, trial, etc. [See Par. R12 below].

R7. 3/16/36 Hugh Lynn Cayce’s ltr. to members:

IMPORTANT - PLEASE READ CAREFULLY

Dear Member:

This letter will explain the delay in the regular issues of the Bulletins and the temporary disturbance in other phases of the Association’s activities.

Our membership has been growing in Detroit, Michigan, due to untiring efforts of our representative there. During the latter part of last year a small group of doctors there became interested in a few unusual cases for whom we had readings. At the invitation of our representative and other members Mr. and Mrs. Edgar Cayce, Miss Gladys Davis and I went to Detroit in November 1935, for a series of readings. We feel that much good was accomplished during our three week stay there. Only one incident, which led to considerable difficulties, marred an otherwise pleasant and helpful trip.

One of the individuals who sought a reading failed to comprehend the information and after taking a transcribed copy of the reading to doctors who laughed at him, he took the matter up with the local authorities. Little need be said regarding this person. We understood that his daughter, for whom the reading was given, was critically ill. The period was taken from others requesting readings because of our desire to be of help. A friend met the entire expenses of this man’s membership. We were not advised of any attitude of unfriendliness or malice. Apparently there was some unwarranted feeling against the gentleman in whose home we were staying. It is best to put the matter down as misunderstanding.

On November 30, all four of us were arrested on the absurd charge of practicing medicine without a license. Through the kind assistance of friends we were released within a few hours on bail. It became necessary to employ attorneys and upon investigation of the law we discovered a broad statute under which the reading in a technical sense was classed. We returned to Virginia Beach. The case was postponed due to illness of Mr. Edgar Cayce, resulting, we feel, from worry over the situation. In order to avoid undue publicity and close the matter as quickly as possible, and acting upon the advice of Trustees of the Association and the lawyers in charge of the case, we sought to have the case dismissed against three and a plea of technical guilt made for the fourth member of our party. The case was settled in this manner on March 3, 1936. Upon investigation by the probation department and the presiding Judge the charges were admitted as false and misrepresenting. The case was then quietly disposed of without fine or reprimand.

Unfortunately lawyers’ fees, extra travel expenses and incidentals connected with the case entailed considerable expense not included in the Association’s budget. It became necessary for us to borrow $475.00. This debt must now be met by the Association and I hope can be cleared before our regular annual meeting in June.

As members of this Association carrying on pioneer work which is naturally severely criticized by the general public we must not be surprised at periodic persecutions. Work in any unexplored field is condemned, and it is well that this is so, for if it then contains true value it will grow stronger and stronger as it withstands the attacks of those who would ignorantly hinder its progress. It is unfortunate that the weight of such persecution must fall upon the individual who is giving so much time and effort to be of service to his fellow men. His concern over this debt resulting from personal charges against him is natural.

I feel that his matter will be considered a personal responsibility by every member of the Association who is truly interested in the humanitarian aspects of the work. This is not merely a matter of a few hundred dollars. Fundamental principles are involved in your attitude toward this situation. Doubt, fear or shame certainly should not enter our considerations. This is not the first time in the history of the world that good has been attacked, that service has been sacrificed upon an altar of scorn. We should be glad that investigation by competent authorities proved the value and worth of the work, and perhaps, there should be a little pity for the ignorance which caused the difficulties.

Inclosed you will find a small envelope marked as a special contribution to this Detroit debt. Give as you are able, but however small or large take part in helping to meet this emergency. It is not the amount but the spirit with which it is given which will count.

Very sincerely yours, (signed) Hugh Lynn Cayce, Manager ASSOCIATION FOR RESEARCH AND ENLIGHTENMENT, Incorporated

R8. 3/31/36 HLC’s ltr. to David and Lucille Kahn [see also under Health Home Remedies - 1800-25 Reports]:

Mr. and Mrs. David E. Kahn 44 West 77th Street, New York City

Dear Lucille and Dave:

As you know we have been planning a trip to New York for the early part of April. I am writing you to learn if it will be convenient to arrange to give the readings in your home as we have during our last few visits. Again definite plans will depend upon your suggestions as to the best time, but we have considered leaving here about April 6.

As usual all of our New York members will be notified by mail. I am arranging with Miss Florence Benner, Secretary to Mr. Dale Parker, to make appointments before our arrival. The phone is Hanover 2-9050. Upon our arrival I want to discuss the possibility of a general meeting of our members. We will doubtless drive to New York as it will be a pleasant and inexpensive way of traveling.

The service was very bad at the Hotel Park Plaza during our last visit. I have written another hotel there in the neighborhood, the Olcott, which is at 27 West 72nd Street. Mr. J. P. Tepper, who is owner and manager, is interested in the work. I will advise you later of the arrangements which are made.

Dr. Warner spent a few days here last week. He seems to be extremely interested in the work and we feel that any work we can do with him will be mutually beneficial.

The H.H.R. is moving along nicely. You were quite right about Sheifflin. They were very nice about recommendations for tests, etc., but want the Dept. of Agriculture o.k. before they take it over. I will discuss the details of all this with you when we reach New York.

Tell the boys hello for me. With love from all,

Sincerely, [Hugh Lynn Cayce]

R9. 4/1/36 David E. Kahn’s ltr. to Edgar Cayce in reply to HLC’s ltr. of 3/31/36 [see also under Health Home Remedies - 1800-25 Reports]:

DAVID E. KAHN 206 Lexington Ave. New York LExington 2-8967

Mr. Edgar Cayce Virginia Beach, Va.

Dear Judge:

Lucille just telephoned me that you are planning to come to New York some time after the 7th. Whatever time suits you suits me and also suits her, as she is very glad to have you and will cooperate fully with you. I have not seen the letter but am rushing this off to you at her suggestion.

With kindest personal regards to you and hoping to see you soon, believe me, as always,

Sincerely yours, [signed] Dave

David E. Kahn/eb

R10. 4/4/36 HLC’s ltr. to David and Lucille Kahn:

Mr. and Mrs. David E. Kahn 44 West 77th Street, New York City

Dear Lucille and Dave,

Enclosed you will find copies of notices which went out today to all of our members in the New York area.

In order to be as little bother as possible to you both before and after our arrival we will try to arrange for a little more systematic handling of the readings, calls, appointments, etc. As you will notice on the announcement we have set aside two evenings, April 14, and 16, for group discussions of the Physical and Life Readings respectively. I hope we can concentrate on these two evenings and avoid repeating the usual stories to small groups each evening. I want to arrange another evening for a general discussion of the research phases of the Association’s work, but the number invited to this will have to be selected.

We are asking that all phone calls be limited to the hours between ten and eleven and two and three. Anyone calling at other times may be asked to call again during those hours, and Gladys or I will be there during those two periods each day.

We plan to drive on Wednesday, April 8, and will arrive there late in the afternoon or early evening. In spite of the poor accommodations at the Park Plaza, next door, we are going to try it again because of the convenience and expense. Mother will be with us and I may return before the end of the entire period. I have made reservations at the Hotel.

From many angles this is an important trip in the history of the Association. I hope to have the opportunity of going over many of the developments with you both soon after our arrival.

It is useless to try and express our appreciation for your helpfulness and kindness. I can only say thank you again.

Sincerely, HLC

R11. 4/4/36 HLC’s announcement to N.Y. members:

ANNOUNCEMENT

Mr. Edgar Cayce will be in New York City for a series of interviews and personal readings from April 9, through April 23.

As the number of readings to be given in New York will be limited members desiring readings at which they may be present, or important readings for friends should make appointments early. Miss Florence Benner [Mr. Dale Parker’s secretary], Phone Hanover 2-9050 will handle all appointments which you care to make before Mr. Cayce’s arrival. After April 9, appointments may be made by calling Trafalagar 7-3456.

In order to avoid confusion we are requesting that all phone calls regarding readings or appointments be made between the hours of 10 and 11 a.m., and 2 and 3 p.m., each day.

Two evenings during the week of April 12, will be devoted to general group discussions. On Tuesday evening, April 14, at 8 p.m., a discussion of the Physical Readings will be held. At this time Mr. Cayce will relate many of his unusual experiences in giving this type of psychic information. On Thursday evening, April 16, at 8 p.m. a discussion will be held on Life Readings. Arrangements are being made to have open Physical and Life Readings to which you and your friends are invited. The announcements of the dates of these open readings will be made on the respective discussion evenings.

All readings and appointments for individual and group discussions will be held at the apartment of Mr. and Mrs. David E. Kahn, 44 West 77th Street.

Mr. Cayce will be glad to see each one of you again and will be happy to make the acquaintance of any of your friends whom you feel would be interested in the Work.

ASSOCIATION FOR RESEARCH AND ENLIGHTENMENT, INCORPORATED Virginia Beach, Virginia

R12. 8/72 Detroit mbr. of A.R.E. brought transcript of the Detroit trial of 3/3/36 to Hugh Lynn Cayce covering 11/30/35 through 3/3/36.

OFFICE OF THE PROSECUTING ATTORNEY COUNTY OF WAYNE

Detroit, Mich., November 30, 1935.

Hon. John P. Scallen, Judge of the Recorder’s Court of the City of Detroit Dear Sir:- I recommend the issuing of a warrant for

Practicing medicine without a license. Betty Ruth Mitshkun

Date of Offense Nov. 21, 1935 - Nov. 22, 1935.

against Edgar Cayce, Hugh Lynn Cayce, Gertrude Cayce, Gladys Davis,

Address 3046 Webb Ave.

upon the complaint of Maurice D. Mitshkun

Address 2940 Waverly Ave.

Respectfully yours, (signed) Duncan C. McCrea Prosecuting Attorney

BAB’McD

COMPL. DEFT. CRIMINAL WARRANT

State of Michigan To the Superintendent, or any Captain, County of Wayne Lieutenant, Sargeant, Detective or City of Detroit Patrolman of the Metropolitan Police Force of the City of Detroit, in said County, GREETING:

Whereas, Maurice D. Mitshkun hath this day made complaint to the undersigned Hon. John P. Scallen a Judge of the Recorder’s Court, of the City of Detroit, in said County, that heretofore, to-wit, on the 21st and 22nd days of November, A.D. 1935, at the City of Detroit, the County aforesaid, Edgar Cayce, Hugh Lynn Cayce, Gertrude Cayce and Gladys Davis, late of the said City of Detroit, in the County and State aforesaid, did then and there unlawfully practice medicine in the said City of Detroit, in the County and State aforesaid, and did then and there, for hire and reward, treat and attempt to treat and cure one Betty Ruth Mitshkun of a certain disease and ailment by then and there professing to diagnose, treat, cure and relieve the said Betty Ruth Mitskun of said disease and ailment, by then and there attending and giving advice to the said Betty Ruth Mitshkun and by using certain appliances, manipulations and other methods upon the person of the said Betty Ruth Mitshkun, in an attempt then and there to treat, cure and relieve the said Betty Ruth Mitshkun of a certain disease and ailment, they, the said Edgar Cayce, Hugh Lynn Cayce, Gertrude Cayce and Gladys Davis, not being then and there the lawful possessors of certificates of registration or licenses as required by law; Contrary to the Form of the Statute, etc.

And Whereas, on examination, on oath, of said Complainant, by me, the said Judge of the Recorder’s Court, it appears to me that said offense has been committed, and there is just cause to suspect the said accused parties to have been guilty thereof; therefore,

In the name of the People of the State of Michigan, You and each of you are hereby commanded forthwith to take the said accused parties and them bring before the Recorder’s Court, of the City of Detroit, at the Municipal Court Building, in the said City of Detroit, to be dealt with according to law.

Witness, The Hon. Thomas M. Cotter, Presiding Judge of the Recorder’s Court of the City of Detroit.

Given under my hand and seal, at the City of Detroit, in said County, on the 30th day of November, A.D. 1935.

[signed, […]] Judge of the Recorder’s Court of the City of Detroit.

STATE OF MICHIGAN

IN THE RECORDER’S COURT FOR THE CITY OF DETROIT

THE PEOPLE VS. No. A-12096 EDGAR CAYCE, HUGH LYNN CAYCE, GERTRUDE CAYCE & GLADYS DAVIS

Offense - Practicing Medicine without a License.

Examination before Hon. Christopher E. Stein, Judge of the Recorder’s Court, on Thursday, December 5, 1935.

APPEARANCES:

CHARLES W. JONES, ESQ., Assistant Prosecuting Attorney, For the People.

EUGENE O’LEARY, ESQ., and ARMAN LeFEVRE, ESQ., For the Defendants.

George A. Smith, Reporter.

THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF MICHIGAN vs. RECORDER’S COURT Edgar Cayce, Hugh Lynn Cayce, of the Gertrude Cayce, Gladys Davis CITY OF DETROIT

The undersigned, a Judge of the Recorder’s Court of the City of Detroit, does hereby certify and return to the Recorder’s Court in and for the City of Detroit, that the warrant hereto annexed was duly issued on the complaint and examination on oath of the complainant named therein, which on reference thereto will more fully appear. That said accused persons were duly arrested by virtue of said warrant, and brought before the Recorder’s Court in said City of Detroit, on the day of the date of the return, endorsed on the back of said warrant, at which time said accused persons heard read the charge contained in said complaint. That afterwards at the Recorder’s Court Room, in the City of Detroit, in the presence and hearing of said accused person, I proceeded to an examination of the witnesses, whose names are in the dispositions hereto annexed, touching the alleged offense, set forth in said complaint. That said witnesses were sworn and examined, touching said offense, on the days the depositions bear date respectively, and that the testimony given by said witness was reduced to writing in my presence and under my direction respectively, and is contained in said disposition hereto annexed.

That from said testimony it appears to me that said alleged offense was committed and that there is probable cause to believe that the accused person Edgar Cayce, Hugh Lynn Cayce, Gertrude Cayce and Gladys Davis to have been guilty thereof; and I therefore, on the day of the date hereof required and ordered said accused person Edgar Cayce, Hugh Lynn Cayce, Gertrude Cayce and Gladys Davis to enter recognizance, with one good and sufficient surety in the sum of Two Hundred Dollars, conditioned for the appearance of the accused persons at the Recorder’s Court in and for the City of Detroit, on the [left blank] A.D. 193-, to answer to such information as may be filed against the said accused persons for said offense, and in default thereof to be committed to the County Jail of the County of Wayne, to answer to such information.

I further certify and return, that said accused person, Edgar Cayce, Hugh Lynn Cayce, Gertrude Cayce and Gladys Davis did [left blank] enter into such recognizance, which said recognizance is hereto attached.

Witness, the Hon. W. McKay Skillman, Presiding Judge of the Recorder’s Court of the City of Detroit.

Given under my hand and seal, at the City of Detroit, in said County, on the 5th day of December, 1935.

Christopher E. Stein Judge of the Recorder’s Court of the City of Detroit,

MAURICE D. MITSHKUN, sworn for the People, testified as follows:

DIRECT EXAMINATION BY MR. JONES:

(Q) What is your name, witness? (A) Mitshkun, Maurice D.

(Q) Where do you live, Mr. Mitshkun? (A) 2940 Waverly.

(Q) Do you have a daughter by the name of Betty Ruth Mitshkun? (A) I have.

(Q) How old is your daughter? (A) Twenty years old.

(Q) Now, on or about November 21st, 1935, did you see any of these defendants? (A) I did, sir.

(Q) Whereabouts did you see them? (A) In the home of Warshawsky on Tuxedo, - on Webb and Lawton, I think it is - Lawton or Wildemere.

(Q) And is that in the City of Detroit? (A) It is.

(Q) How many of these defendants did you see there? (A) Four of them.

(Q) Four of them? Will you point out the ones that you saw? (A) Behind these two gentlemen, the four people. (indicating).

THE COURT: Indicating the defendants.

MR. JONES: Let the record show that he indicated Gladys Davis, Gertrude Cayce, Edgar Cayce and Hugh Lynn Cayce.

(Q) Now, what time of day did you go there, Mr. Mitshkun? (A) Three o’clock in the afternoon.

(Q) Three o’clock in the afternoon? And why did you go there? (A) I understood that they could - MR. LeFEVRE: (Interrupting): I object to that, what he understood, Your Honor.

(Q) (By Mr. Jones): Well, did you have information? (A) I had information to the effect that they could tell me what was wrong with my daughter and aiding in curing her.

MR. LeFEVRE: I object to that, what information he had. It is a conclusion of the witness.

THE COURT: He said he had information that they could tell what was wrong with his daughter. Well, after you had information about certain things, did you go to see them? (A) Yes.

THE COURT: Go ahead.

(Q) (By Mr. Jones): And tell us what happened after you arrived there? (A) I was required to join a society for the -

MR. LeFEVRE: (Interrupting): I object to that statement that he was required, Your Honor.

(Q) (By Mr. Jones): Well, what did you do?

THE COURT: Well, we will get the facts.

(Q) (By Mr. Jones): Witness, don’t tell us what you were required to do or anything like that, or what was said, other than what you saw or heard and the conversation with these people at the place. Now, were you asked to do anything by these defendants? (A) I was asked to sign an application to a Society for the Research of Information and Health, or some such name, which included a psychic reading.

(Q) Who asked you to sign that application, which one of these defendants, if any? (A) I don’t remember which one. One of them. I can’t remember.

(Q) Well, one of the men or one of the ladies? (A) I think it was the son.

(Q) Well, figure, now, which one? (A) Well, I say it was the son.

MR. LeFEVRE: I object to that.

THE COURT: Were they all there at that time?

(Q) (By Mr. Jones): Were they all there at that time? (A) They were all there.

(Q) Well, now, after you were asked to sign this application did you sign an application? (A) I did.

(Q) And what happened after you signed the application? (A) I was conducted into a back bedroom where all the defendants were in there, and other people, and Mr. Cayce laid down on a couch.

(Q) Now, which one of the Cayces? (A) The elder Cayce.

(Q) What is his name?

MR. O’LEARY: Edgar Cayce.

MR. JONES: Let the record show that he indicates Edgar Cayce. (A) That is right.

(Q) Go ahead. (A) He laid down on the couch and he went into a trance, supposedly, and in this trance he was supposed to see the body of the sick person.

MR. O’LEARY: Just a minute. I object to that.

MR. LeFEVRE: It is not a question of what he was supposed to do.

(Q) (By Mr. Jones): Well, did he say that? (A) I was told that he would do, yes, sir.

MR. LeFEVRE: Just a moment, I object to that. He should testify to who told him and what the conversation was. (A) They all told me there.

MR. LeFEVRE: Everyone? (A) Every one, yes.

THE COURT: Wait a minute. Let him go ahead. Go on.

(Q) (By Mr. Jones): Go ahead, Mr. Mitshkun. (A) And during this time he is supposed to - the body of the sick person is supposed to appear before him in this trance, and he sees right into this body, and can tell what causes the sickness and what the cure would be.

(Q) Did he tell you what the cure was? (A) Well, the cure in this case started out with some sort of a battery I was supposed to buy.

THE COURT: How long was he in the trance?

(Q) (By Mr. Jones): How long was he in this trance?

THE COURT: And when he came out of it, what did he say to you? (A) How long was he in this trance?

(Q) (By Mr. Jones): Yes. (A) Oh, about a half an hour.

(Q) What did he say when he was in this trance?

THE COURT: Did he talk? (A) Well, he talked all the time, yes, for half or three-quarters of an hour; I couldn’t repeat it.

(Q) (By Mr. Jones): Well, what did he talk about? What did he say? (A) He mentioned the various divisions of the body, the various major organisms of the body, touching upon the mental activities and muscular, the respiratory trouble and various divisions of the body that -

(Q) (Interrupting): Well, what did he say to you concerning the ailment of your daughter, if anything? (A) Well, everything that he said was - he touched upon all the parts of the body, so that no matter what could be wrong with her would be mentioned somewhere in this speech.

(Q) Now, did he talk to anyone in your presence there concerning the condition of your daughter? (A) In this trance, do you mean?

(Q) Yes, in this trance? (A) His wife sat next to him and asked the questions, which he answered.

(Q) Now, when you say, “his wife”, do you mean the lady sitting next to the table? (A) Yes.

(Q) What is her name, Gertrude Cayce? (A) Yes.

MR. JONES: Let the record show that the witness indicates Gertrude Cayce.

(Q) Now, after his wife sat next to him and interpreted the trance, did she talk to anyone in your presence? (A) She asked us if we had any questions to ask.

(Q) Did you ask any questions? (A) I didn’t ask any questions myself.

(Q) Now, did anyone take down the conversation that was held there? (A) His Secretary is supposed to have taken down the conversation.

(Q) Is that the other young lady who is here today? (A) That is the young lady.

MR. JONES: Let the record show that the witness indicates Gladys Davis. (A) That is right.

(Q) Now, what happened after this conversation was taken down by Mrs. Davis? (A) After the conversation was taken down he came out of this trance and we all went into the living room and we sat down and conversed a few moments, and I was asked just what was wrong with my daughter.

(Q) Who asked you? (A) The young lady of the house, the daughter of Mr. Warshawsky. I think her name is Mrs. Crouse (?). [Krause]

(Q) Is she here today? (A) Yes, she is.

(Q) And was that in the presence of the four defendants? (A) It was.

(Q) All right, go ahead and tell us what happened? (A) And I told her that my daughter had bronchial asthma, and I couldn’t see that there was anything in this diagnosis that he gave as to her sickness that would be mentioned -

(Q) (Interrupting): Now, were you asked to pay a fee for this service? (A) I was.

(Q) How much money was it? (A) $20.

(Q) $20? And did you pay that money? (A) I did.

(Q) And whom did you pay that money to? (A) To Mr. Cayce, Jr.

(Q) Mr. Cayce, Jr.?

MR. JONES: Let the record show that the witness indicates Hugh Lynn Cayce, one of the defendants in this case.

(Q) And did you get a receipt for that money? (A) No, I did not.

(Q) Now, after this other defendant, Gladys Davis, took down the notes, did she subsequently give you suggestions and - (A) (Interrupting): She did.

(Q) And was that typewritten? (A) It was.

(Q) What, if anything, was said concerning a cure, Mr. Mitshkun? (A) A cure was supposed to start out with this -

Mr. LeFEVRE: (Interrupting): I object to that, “Was supposed to start out.” By whom, Your Honor?

MR. JONES: If you give him a chance, we will see who it was.

(Q) What, if anything, was said by any of these defendants concerning a cure?

THE COURT: Concerning a what?

MR. JONES: A cure for his daughter? (A) A cure, according to Mr. Cayce’s -

(Q) (Interrupting): Cayce, Senior? (A) (Continuing): - Cayce, Senior’s, speech in this trance starts out with the use of a battery.

(Q) What was said about that battery? (A) Well, the battery was to be ordered from a company in Newark, New Jersey, that they wrote the order out, and I was to send $26 to these people for the battery, and full instructions were to accompany the battery as to its use. There was some -

(Q) (Interrupting): Well, now, who told you that? (A) Miss Gladys - I don’t know her last name?

(Q) Gladys Davis? (A) Gladys Davis and Mister -

(Q) (Interrupting): Is that one of the defendants in this case? (A) One of the defendants, and Mr. Cayce, Jr., and Mrs. Warshawsky tried to analyze and define this thing for me, but -

(Q) (Interrupting): Was that in the presence of the defendants? (A) It was.

(Q) Go ahead. (A) But I couldn’t make head nor tail out of it, and I decided that I couldn’t go any further with it, it was too indefinite. The -

(Q) (Interrupting): Well, you decided not to do anything after that, is that right? (A) That is right.

(Q) All right. Now, I will show you People’s Exhibit No. One and ask you do you recognize that exhibit? (A) I do.

(Q) Who gave you that exhibit, People’s Exhibit No. 1? (A) This was handed to me by Miss Davis, one of the defendants here.

(Q) And in the presence of the other three defendants? (A) Yes, I think they were all there at the time; at least, two of them were.

(Q) Which two? (A) The two gentlemen.

(Q) The two gentlemen. Now, when you say “the two gentlemen”, you mean defendants, Edgar Cayce and Hugh Lynn Cayce? (A) That is right.

(Q) All right. Go ahead. What else happened after that? after those instructions were given to you? (A) Well, I started to look it over and I was reading -

(Q) (Interrupting): Pardon me just a minute. Now, were you given any other papers there by these defendants? (A) Yes, there was a lot of papers handed to me.

(Q) And how many other papers were given to you? (A) There was an order for the battery on this Newark concern, and a diet list, and also some reports of previous cases, a couple of cases that they had reports on.

(Q) Now, who gave you this order for the battery, which one of the defendants? (A) Miss Davis.

(Q) And was it in the presence of these other defendants? (A) It was.

(Q) And in what part of the house was that? (A) In the living room.

(Q) The living room? Now, you say a diet list was also given to you? (A) Well, whether this could be called a diet list or not, I don’t know. It is a list of diets but it is not a recom mendation, I don’t suppose, as to what she should eat or not eat.

(Q) I show you People’s Exhibit No. 2, which reads at the top: “Health Home Remedies Company, radio activity appliance”, and ask you whether or not you received that from any of these defendants? (A) Yes, I did.

(Q) From whom did you receive that? (A) From Miss Davis.

(Q) Mrs. Davis? In the presence of these other defendants? (A) Yes.

(Q) I will show you People’s Exhibit No. 3 and ask you if you received that? (A) Yes, I did.

(Q) And from whom did you receive that? (A) From the same party.

(Q) Mrs. Davis? (A) Mrs. Davis.

(Q) In the presence of these defendants? (A) That is right.

(Q) I will show you People’s Exhibit No. 4 and ask you if you received those? (A) I did.

(Q) And from whom did you receive that exhibit? (A) From Mrs. Davis.

(Q) In the presence of these defendants? (A) That is right, sir.

MR. JONES: I will offer in evidence, Your Honor, People’s Exhibits Nos. 1, 2, 3, and 4.

MR. O’LEARY: I will object to them at the present time until I get an opportunity to cross-examine him.

THE COURT: Well, go ahead and cross-examine him.

CROSS EXAMINATION BY MR. O’LEARY:

(Q) Now, Mr. Mitshkun, you went over to Mr. Warshawsky’s house? (A) I did.

(Q) Were you alone at the time? (A) No, sir.

(Q) Who was with you? (A) A friend of mine by the name of Mr. Lasky.

(Q) Your daughter didn’t go over there with you? (A) No, sir.

(Q) She was at home? (A) Yes.

(Q) Now, when you went into Mr. Warshawsky’s house, whom did you talk to first? (A) Mrs. Crouse (?). [Krause]

(Q) Mrs. Crouse? [Krause] (A) Mrs. Warshawsky’s daughter.

(Q) Mrs. Warshawsky’s daughter? (A) That is right.

(Q) And did you later talk with Mr. Cayce, Jr.? that is, Hugh Lynn Cayce? (A) Yes.

(Q) Now, at the time that you talked with Hugh Lynn Cayce, he asked you to join - to take out a membership in the Association for Research & Enlightenment? (A) He said it would be required in order to get these readings.

(Q) Before you could get this psychic reading, you had to take this membership in this society, is that right? (A) That is right.

(Q) And you filled out one of these applications? (A) Yes, sir.

(Q) Did you pay a membership fee? (A) Yes, sir.

(Q) You, yourself, personally? (A) Yes, sir.

(Q) Now, isn’t it a fact that Mr. Lasky is the one that paid this? (A) Well, he gave them a check for me.

(Q) Oh, Mr. Lasky really paid for it, then? (A) He gave him a check for me.

(Q) And that check was paid payable to whom? (A) I imagine it was paid payable to these people.

(Q) It was made payable to the association, isn’t that true? (A) It may have been; I didn’t even read the check.

(Q) You didn’t even read it? (A) No, sir.

(Q) Because Mr. Lasky made out the check? (A) He made out the check, yes, sir.

(Q) And was his own personal check? (A) No, it wasn’t a personal check, I don’t think.

(Q) What was it, a company check? (A) It probably was, yes.

(Q) When you talked to Hugh Cayce, he told you that after you had taken out this membership his father would give you a psychic reading on your daughter, is that right? (A) Yes - what was that question.

(Q) When you talked to Hugh Lynn Cayce, he told you that his father would give you a psychic reading on your daughter? (A) Yes.

(Q) Now, at that time, Mr. Cayce didn’t promise any cure for your daughter, did he; I mean, Hugh Lynn Cayce. (A) Yes, he told me what was wrong with her.

(Q) Just a minute. Did Hugh Lynn Cayce promise any cure for your daughter when you talked to him? (A) Yes, he did.

(Q) Are you sure of that? (A) Sure.

(Q) I am talking about this man right here? (indicating). (A) Yes.

(Q) Do you remember all that took place? (A) Yes.

(Q) What did he say? (A) Well, told me what is wrong with her and said, “We will tell you how to cure her.” That is why I went there.

(Q) Are you sure he promised that he could cure her? - that his father could cure her? (A) Yes.

(Q) Who sent you there? (A) Who sent me there?

(Q) Yes. (A) Mr. Lasky heard about these people from Mr. Warshawsky, and he took me there.

(Q) What conversation did you and Mr. Lasky have about these people? (Q) He told me that a friend of his came into the store and told him about a man that could diagnose and tell me how to cure my daughter, whom various doctors have failed to do - failed to cure.

(Q) As a matter of fact, Hugh Lynn Cayce - all he told you was that his father would give you this psychic reading; he didn’t promise you a thing, did he? (A) They all promised they would tell me what was wrong with her and cure her.

(Q) And he told you, Mr. Hugh Lynn Cayce - (Interrupting): That is why that I give him $20; I didn’t just go there to look at the people.

(Q) He told you he would charge you this 20 for the membership in the association? [Association for Research & Enlightenment, Inc.] (A) Yes, which included a reading for 10.

(Q) He told you it would be a psychic reading? (A) Yes, a psychic reading, yes.

(Q) He didn’t promise you any relief, did he? Mr. Hugh Lynn Cayce, for your daughter? (A) Yes, I believe he did.

(Q) Your daughter was not present? (A) No.

(Q) They didn’t give her any treatment? (A) She didn’t have to be, according to them.

(Q) I show you defense Exhibit A, and I will ask you if that is a copy of the application that you signed? (A) This is not the copy; this is the original.

(Q) The original? (A) Yes.

(Q) That is an application for membership in the Association for Research and Enlightenment, is that true? (A) That is what it is, yes.

(Q) And what does it say on there that they offer you? (A) They offer me the psychic readings.

(Q) Will you read that?

THE COURT: Well, let the Prosecuting Attorney see it first.

MR. JONES: I object to it, Your Honor, as being immaterial. It is not signed by the defendant.

THE COURT: He made this application out in his own handwriting.

THE COURT: Does the testimony show that he signed an application? Did you sign that, may I ask you?

MR. O’LEARY: He stated that it was an application made, which was handed to him at the time. That was the basis for it.

THE COURT: Is this your handwriting? (A) Yes.

THE COURT: Is this the one you signed? (A) I printed it on there.

THE COURT: Which is the one he signed?

MR. O’LEARY: This is it, Your Honor.

MR. LeFEVRE: Yes, that is the application he printed his name on.

THE COURT: Is that your application? (A) My signature is not there; I printed my name on there.

(Q) (By Mr. O’Leary): You printed your name on there?

MR. O’LEARY: It would be equivalent to his signature if he printed it; that is his own writing.

MR. JONES: All right.

THE COURT: All right, go ahead.

(Q) (By Mr. O’Leary): Now, in the application did you ask the privilege of receiving from one Mr. Edgar Cayce a psychic reading? (A) In this application?

(Q) Yes. (A) Yes, I imagine this application -

THE COURT: (Interrupting): It speaks for itself, doesn’t it? (A) It does speak for itself, yes.

(Q) (By Mr. O’Leary): Now, what other conversation did you -

MR. O’LEARY: I will offer this in evidence. Is there any objection?

MR. JONES: No objection.

THE WITNESS: Why, there is another slip there that I filled out and signed. I suppose you have that?

(Q) (By Mr. O’Leary): Now, what other conversation did you have with Hugh Lynn Cayce when you first went in there? (A) There was another slip made out that we had some conversation about.

(Q) Now, when you first talked to Hugh Cayce, he did not know the nature of your daughter’s ailment, did he, or you didn’t tell him? (A) I didn’t tell him, no.

(Q) They didn’t attend the patient at any time? (A) No.

(Q) No treatment was given your daughter at any time? (A) No, not through this - not through these efforts, no.

(Q) Your daughter never saw these people? (A) No.

(Q) And they never saw her? (A) No, except that he was supposed to see her in his trance.

(Q) Now, Mr. Mitshkun, you went in this place purely for the purpose of receiving a psychic reading on your daughter, isn’t that true? (A) That is right.

(Q) And you received that? (A) Yes.

(Q) Now, was Mr. Hugh Cayce present at the time this reading was taken? (A) He was.

(Q) Are you sure of that? (A) He was.

(Q) How many other people were present and their names, if you know? (A) Mrs. Cayce, Senior, was there, this Gladys Davis was there, Mrs. Crouse was there, and Mr. Lasky and myself.

(Q) Now, when Mr. Cayce, Senior, gave you this reading, you say he was laying on the davenport? (A) He was.

(Q) And he was in trance? (A) Well, I am not qualified to say as to that.

(Q) Did he appear to be unconscious? (A) Well, he was lying there and he was talking; I don’t know whether he was unconscious or conscious, I couldn’t tell that. I didn’t examine him. I am not a doctor.

(Q) Did you understand what he was saying? (A) Yes.

(Q) Now, Mr. Cayce, Senior, was the only one that was giving you any advice or saying anything about your daughter’s condition during this reading, isn’t that right? (A) During this psychic reading?

(Q) Yes. (A) He was the only one that was doing any talking, yes.

(Q) He was the only one? In fact, he is the only one that ever said anything about your daughter’s condition or treatment, is that right? (A) Well, he said all these things in this report, and then the rest of them tried to define them and analyze them for me.

(Q) And all these things he said, he said while he was in this trance? (Q) Supposedly, yes.

(Q) And you knew all the time that you were receiving a psychic reading. (A) Yes.

(Q) You knew it was going to be given to you in a trance, didn’t you, before you received it? (A) I understood that, yes.

(Q) But Mr. Lasky never told you that? (A) I think he did.

(Q) That is the only purpose you went up there for, then, was to receive this psychic reading? (A) No, the purpose I went up there was to get my daughter some treatment for what was wrong with her. I am not interested in psychic readings, I want you to understand. I have a sick daughter, and any father that has a sick daughter and can’t cure her is naturally looking for someone and some way out to get that girl cured.

(Q) Why did you sign this application, then, for a membership in this Association for Research and Enlightenment and ask for a psychic reading? (A) It was required in order to get this reading.

(Q) Well, did you go up there just for the psychic reading? You knew that was what you were going to get when you went up there?

MR. JONES: I object to that. It has been already asked and answered. This witness said he went up there to get a cure for his daughter.

THE COURT: He said what he went there for.

MR. JONES: Surely, he did.

THE COURT: In regard to a sick daughter. He went to try to get relief for her.

THE WITNESS: I would try anything to get her cured.

(Q) (By Mr. O’Leary): But you knew you were going to get a psychic reading when you went up there? (A) I understood that I was to be told what was wrong with her in this trance and I was told what would cure her - what could be done to cure her.

(Q) That is what Mr. Lasky informed you, is that right? (A) Yes, and everybody there, too. I am not interested in psychic readings, for any other purpose.

MR. O’LEARY: I think that is all.

MR. JONES: I renew my offer, Your Honor, of these exhibits 1, 2, 3, and 4.

THE COURT: All right, the Court will admit them in evidence.

MR. JONES: Counsel, I will ask you: Do you waive the production of the County Clerk for the purpose of the examination, to show that the four defendants have not a license to practice medicine in the State of Michigan?

MR. O’LEARY: Yes, I will for the purpose of the examination.

MR. JONES: Alright, I recommend that all four defendants be held for trial.

THE COURT: Is that all?

MR. JONES: Yes, I recommend the defendants be held for trial, all four of them, Your Honor.

MR. O’LEARY: I move at this time for the dismissal of the complaint and warrant and the discharge of the defendants for the reason that the People have failed to show probable cause that anyone of these defendants in any way come under this crime as charged. Now, this complaint charges them with “For hire and reward to treat and attempt to treat and to cure one Betty Lou [Ruth] Mitshkun”. There is no testimony here whatsoever that anyone of them did treat or attempt to treat or attempt to cure. The party that was sick was not present at any time. The complainant himself admits that when he went there he went there for a psychic reading and knew he was going to receive this psychic reading.

THE COURT: No, he did not.

MR. O’LEARY: He admitted that off the witness stand.

THE COURT: He went there to see what could be done for his daughter and said he would do most anything in order to see his daughter healthy.

MR. JONES: Yes, that is his testimony. He said he would take a psychic reading if necessary.

MR. O’LEARY: Yes, but he said he knew he was going to receive a psychic reading.

THE COURT: Well, wasn’t there an attempt there to cure her?

MR. O’LEARY: I wouldn’t say that there was an attempt there to cure her. It might, possibly, be an attempt to diagnose. A psychic reading could be construed as a diagnosis. The man admits, himself, that the man was in a trance, and any diagnosis or any reading he gave, he gave while he was in trance. Now, your statute on that is very specific in this way: that it says, as far as a medical diagnosis is concerned, it must be an actual diagnosis. Well, what is an actual diagnosis?

Now, are we to construe that a psychic reading is a real diagnosis, under the Medical Act? They had never seen him before. The patient never seen these people, was not present at any time, and it was a diagnosis given while the complaining witness, himself, says he was in a trance.

THE COURT: Didn’t he advise him what should be done, how to proceed in order to help the girl in some way, his daughter? Didn’t he advise getting this battery?

MR. O’LEARY: Yes, but the way it was given, it wouldn’t come within the statute as a real diagnosis.

THE COURT: All right, I think it would come under the statute.

MR. O’LEARY: Now, it is alleged here that they treated her. There is no testimony here that they did treat her.

THE COURT: But there is some here that he diagnosed it and he offered to treat. Well, you had better go to trial and find out.

MR. O’LEARY: Well, as far as any diagnosis, if there is a diagnosis, if Your Honor is going to take this diagnosis, why, I think Mr. Cayce, Senior, is, possibly, the only one who has given any diagnosis here. That is about all they have here, the diagnosis given under these psychic conditions.

THE COURT: Well, they all took part in it, didn’t they?

MR. O’LEARY: They were present, but they didn’t give any advice.

THE COURT: Well, I will hold them all for trial.

MR. JONES: If they were all present, they would be equally as guilty as the principal.

THE COURT: Bond will be continued.

QUESTIONING OF ABE WARSHAWSKY, 3046 WEBB AVE., DETROIT, MICH.:

(Q) Do you know one, Maurice Mitshkun? (A) Yes.

(Q) Did you have a conversation with him on November 21st, 1935? (A) Over the telephone.

(Q) What was the substance of that conversation? (A) I was in the Lasky Furniture Co., talking with Mr. Lasky regarding the psychic work of Edgar Cayce. Mr. Lasky called Mr. Mitshkun on the phone and talked with him about securing a psychic reading for his daughter. Mr. Lasky then asked me to talk with Mr. Mitshkun to advise him about making the necessary appointment for his daughter. I talked with Mr. Mitshkun, telling him of experiences I had seen resulting from such readings and explaining the membership in the Association which is presenting and studying Mr. Cayce’s work.

(Q) You did not see Mr. Mitshkun on the 21st? (A) No I did not see him until evening of the 22nd, in my home at 3046 Webb Ave.

(Q) Did you have any conversation with Mr. Mitshkun at that time? (A) Yes.

(Q) What was the nature of the conversation? (A) He expressed himself as being dissatisfied with the reading because it did not specifically state that his daughter had asthma. He felt that there was only one cure for asthma and that was to send her to Arizona.

(Q) Who was present at this time? (A) Mrs. Warshawsky, Mr. and Mrs. Cayce and Miss Gladys Davis. (Q) During this evening at your home did Mr. Cayce, Mrs. Cayce or Gladys Davis make any promises to Mr. Mitshkun regarding cures for his daughter? (A) I did not. After Mr. Mitshkun stated that he did not have funds to carry out the reading, Mr. Cayce offered to recommend to the Association for Research & Enlightenment, Inc., that whatever expenses necessary in checking the information of the reading be met by the Association without cost to Mr. Mitshkun.

Note: The point might be stressed from the above testimony that Mr. Mitshkun received from Mr. Warshawsky and Mr. Lasky the impression that Mr. Cayce made promises regarding curing his daughter, but that no such claims were made by any one connected with the Association.

QUESTIONING HUGH LYNN CAYCE:

(Q) Do you know one, Maurice D. Mitshkun? (A) Yes.

(Q) When did you first meet Mr. Mitshkun? (A) On the afternoon of November 21, 1935, at the home of Mr. Warshawsky, 3046 Webb Ave.

(Q) Give the substance of your conversation with him. (A) I explained to Mr. Mitshkun that my father’s psychic abilities were being investigated by the Association for Research & Enlightenment, Inc., and that as a member of this organization he might take part in a psychological experiment to study and check the value of psychic information, by having a reading on himself or members of his family if he so desired. I discussed briefly with Mr. Mitshkun the work of the organization in collecting and studying data of a psychic nature through the cooperation of individuals and doctors in charge of various cases.

(Q) Did he suggest that he would like to have a reading? (A) He did.

(Q) Did you have any other conversation with him, Mr.

Mitshkun, involving any cure for his daughter. (A) I explained to Mr. Mitshkun that he was receiving only a psychic reading, and that we gave no treatments or made any promises regarding results, for in many instances the reading offered nothing of interest for further study. I pointed out to Mr. Mitshkun that as an organization we would be glad to help him in any way possible in obtaining the doctors’ cooperation in following out any information he might receive. I made no promises regarding a cure for his daughter.

(Q) Did Mr. Mitshkun take out a membership in the Association? (A) Yes. Mr. Mitshkun handed me a blank which he filled out in my presence and Mr. Lasky gave me a check made out to the Association for the membership fee.

(Q) Did you cash that check? (A) The check was forwarded to the Association’s account in Virginia Beach, Virginia.

(Q) Was the reading given that afternoon? (A) Yes.

(Q) When Mr. Mitshkun arrived was anyone with him? (A) Yes - Mr. Lasky.

(Q) Did you have any conversation with Mr. Lasky? (A) No direct conversation. Mr. Lasky heard my conversation with Mr. Mitshkun.

(Q) Are you sure you made no promises to Mr. Mitshkun regarding his daughter? (A) I promised him nothing. I explained that we had no way of knowing what would be given in one of these psychic readings.

(Q) Did you tell him that you did not direct treating? (A) I did.

(Q) Was the daughter present when the reading was given? (A) She was not.

(Q) After the reading was over did you have any further conversation? (A) We discussed the girl’s condition. He described the condition as bronchial asthma.

(Q) Did he express any dissatisfaction? (A) He indicated that he did not understand the reading. I suggested that he come back the following afternoon or evening after the material had been typed and go over the data.

(Q) Did you see Mr. Mitshkun on the evening of the 22nd? (A) No.

(Q) Who was present when you first talked to Mr. Mitshkun? (A) Mr. Lasky and Mrs. Krause.

(Q) Who was present when the reading was given? (A) Mrs. Cayce, Miss Davis, Mrs. Krause, Mr. Mitshkun and Mr. Lasky.

(Q) After the reading was over did the express any dissatisfaction? (A) He said that the reading did not cover the case. I suggested that we wait and discuss the typewritten copy as the reading was difficult to understand.

(Q) Did you admit to Mr. Mitshkun that the readings some- times suggested a line of treatment? (A) I explained to Mr. Mitshkun that this psychic information generally contained suggestions for treatment to be followed by a physician, but that this was given in a psychic state and should be studied and tested, as that was the purpose of the organization and his membership in it.

(Q) Did you make any suggestions regarding the Wet Cell Appliance suggested in the reading. (A) I told him of cases that had used such appliances with beneficial results. This was in line with our discussion of the research work being conducted by the organization.

QUESTIONING GUILDA KRAUS

(Q) Where do you live? (A) 3311 Chicago Blvd.

(Q) Where you present in your father’s home when Mr. Mitshkun was a visitor there on November 21. (A) Yes, I was.

(Q) Will you tell us who else was present? (A) Mr. Lasky, Mr. and Mrs. Cayce, Hugh Lynn Cayce and Gladys Davis.

(Q) Were you present with Mr. Mitshkun and Mr. Lasky when they had a conversation with Hugh Lynn Cayce. (A) Yes I was.

(Q) Did you have any conversation with Mr. Lasky or Mr. Mitshkun? (A) They asked me how this was done and I explained that Mr. Cayce went to sleep.

(Q) Did you hear the whole conversation between Hugh Lynn Cayce and Mr. Mitshkun? (A) I did.

(Q) What was the substance of their conversation? (A) Hugh Lynn explained to Mr. Mitshkun and Mr. Lasky about the work of the Association in studying and investigating the work of his father and explained the membership arrangement by which members, if they desired, could take part in the experiments being carried on.

(Q) Did Hugh Lynn Cayce make any promises regarding the curing of Mr. Mitshkun’s daughter? (A) No.

(Q) Did he say that the reading would prescribe a treatment? (A) He said that there was no way of knowing just what would be given in the reading but that from past experiences we felt that interesting and valuable data might be secured.

(Q) Did you hear Hugh Lynn Cayce at any time suggest any treatment for Mr. Mitshkun’s daughter? (A) I did not.

(Q) What conversation followed the reading? (A) We discussed the daughter’s condition and I described to Mr. Mitshkun a Wet Cell Appliance as I had seen one working. Mr. Mitshkun appeared not to understand the information and said that his daughter had bronchial asthma and that only a change of climate would help her.

QUESTIONING EDGAR CAYCE:

(Q) Did you have any conversation with Mr. Mitshkun on November 21, before the reading. (A) No.

(Q) After the reading on the same afternoon did you have any conversation with him. (A) No.

(Q) On the 22nd did you have any conversation with him. (A) I told Mr. Mitshkun that I did not understand the psychic work which I was doing, and that I did not know that it was valuable or worth while except from the experiences others told me of checking and following up the information given while I was in a psychic state. I told him that the Association was trying to study the work with the view of making it valuable to others. He mentioned the fact of being unable to follow the information and I told him that I would be glad to ask the Research Committee of the Association to meet all expenses of following his daughter’s reading.

(Q) Do you refer to the Association for Research and Enlightenment, Inc. (A) Yes.

(Q) This Association is incorporated in the state of Virginia? (A) Yes.

(Q) Does this Association operate under a charter from the State of Virginia? (A) It does.

(Q) Where is the principal office of the Association. (A) Virginia Beach, Va.

(Q) Briefly what are the purposes of the Association. (A) To conduct and carrying on psychical and scientific research.

(Q) Did you at any time in your conversation with Mr. Mitshkun claim to be able to cure his daughter. (A) I did not.

QUESTIONING MR. DILLMAN

(Q) What is your name. (A) Charles Weston Dillman.

(Q) Where do you live. (A) Dearborn, Mich.

(Q) Where did you live formerly? (A) I travel much of the time.

(Q) Do you know Edgar Cayce? (A) Yes.

(Q) How long have you known him? (A) For thirteen years.

(Q) Are you a member of the Association for Research and Enlightenment, Inc. (A) I am.

(Q) How long have you been a member? (A) For three years.

(Q) Where were you living at that time. (A) In Pittsburgh, Penn.

(Q) How many times have you seen Mr. Cayce since coming to know him. (A) I have seen him a great many times. I am always in touch with the activities of the Association.

(Q) What are the purposes of this Association. (A) To study and investigate psychic phenomena and their possible affects on various phases of human life.

(Q) To what does a membership entitle you. (A) A participation in all of the research activities of the organization through the study of psychic data on others or on those directly under your observation such as members of your family or yourself. You also receive regular publications of the organization reporting its findings.

(Q) What types of psychic information have you studied as a member? (A) Historical, psychological, medical, philosophical, scientific.

(Q) Have you had readings from Mr. Cayce through the Association. (A) I have.

(Q) When did you have the last one. (A) Two or three months ago.

(Q) In obtaining information for yourself did Mr. Cayce make any promises as to curing or helping you. (A) He did not. I have never known Mr. Cayce to make promises of any kind regarding his work.

R13. 3/5/36 HLC’s ltr. to D. Johnston:

Mr. Douglas T. Johnston Graybar Building, New York City

Dear Mr. Johnston:

I wish to thank you again for your kindness and assistance in clearing up the Detroit situation. The whole matter was most unfortunate.

As advised in conversation with you and Mr. McQuade [Eugene T. McQuade], and also by both Detroit attorneys, my father entered a plea of technical guilt under the Michigan statute. The case was dismissed against the other three, mother, Miss Davis and me. The entire discussion of the case took place in the private chambers of the Judge. As usual in such cases it was referred to the probation division. The time for reporting on it was out, at the Judge’s request, from a week, the usual time, to a couple of hours. My father spent an hour with the probation officer and was then asked to lunch in order that the discussion of the work might be continued. In the course of the interview I understand that the officer asked that an application blank and other literature be sent him because of a personal interest. I had an opportunity to explain the work of the Association and present our Charter, letters and other papers. This probation officer sent in an excellent report to the Judge. The Judge then called my father and explained that he was very sorry that the situation ever arose. He said that he would be glad to do anything possible to avoid causing further trouble. He suggested that the original membership fee be returned and a short probation period be imposed. If we preferred he indicated that he would be glad to impose a small fine of a few dollars rather than a period of probation. After the trial he asked several questions about the work, shook hands with my father and told him he was very sorry that the whole thing happened. All of this took place Tuesday morning and during the early afternoon enabling us to leave the same afternoon for Virginia Beach.

Your letter was read by both Judge and probation officer and was one of the few that did not constitute more evidence that we were actually practicing medicine. Thank you very much for it.

I am inclosing a statement of the funds used from the bond money and a check for the balance. I deeply regret the necessity for such expenditures. In order to be in Detroit before Mr. Warshawsky, bondsmen and principal witness left the city, we had to return sooner than I expected. The weather here and in Detroit at that time prevented our driving. The Association treasury, never very full, was taxed beyond its capacity. We had sufficient funds on hand for the trip up but found it necessary to use some of the bond money for the return. This you will see noted on the statement.

I am preparing a letter of explanation relative to the Detroit difficulties which will be sent out at once. This letter will ask for contributions from members to assist in meeting the expenses involved. These funds will be kept separate and further reimbursements forwarded to you.

No publicity accompanied the trial. We received over a hundred and fifty letters during the week between the reinstating of the bond and the trial, some of them containing splendid affidavits regarding cases upon which we did not have complete reports.

Dr. Lucien Warner [Lucien Warner, Ph.D] of Columbia, regarding whom I wrote you, became a member of the Association when he stopped here on his way to Duke where he is making connections to carry on some psychic research work. He seemed most interested in the work and expressed himself as desirous of coming to the Beach to make some close personal observations and conduct a thorough study of the phenomena manifested through my father. I will advise you of any further developments as I feel that this will lead to just the type of connection we need to place the work on a solid scientific basis. Dr. Warner said that he would be very glad to introduce my father to Dr. Carrel [Alexis Carrel, M.D.] whom he knows personally and who, he felt, would be most interested in our work.

Sugrue is at a temporary standstill with his articles requiring he says several interviews with my father to fill in the details of much of the material he is presenting. [See 254-88 regarding pubs.]

At the present time our appointments are limited.

Considering the above three reasons I am advising a short trip to New York for my father during March. Warner has returned to New York and will conduct his experiments from there. I feel that a follow-up with regard to his suggestions about Dr. Carrel as well as the work with Sugrue are most important.

Thank you again for your kindness and helpfulness. Words cannot express our personal gratitude.

Sincerely, Hugh Lynn Cayce

P.S. I have just discussed the possible New York trip with my father and we have decided that it will be wise to delay it until the first two weeks in April…

R14. 8/7/74 GD’s note: On 6/9/72 Miss [Marilyn L.] Collinson was mailed by her request, two copies of the court records of Edgar Cayce’s trial in Detroit in Dec. 1935 and March 1936. She later brought these records to Hugh Lynn Cayce, 8/7/72.

HLC’s secretary, Norrene Leary, gave them to GDT [Gladys Davis Turner] by HLC’s request, for making a part of the archives. I put one copy as the Master under 254-89 Reports and the other copy in the Library under 254-89 Reports.

Three extra copies of sheets preceding the court trial were also placed in the date sequence 11/30/35 vault books and in EC’s correspondence folder for 1935 & 1936 - also under 254-89 Reports.

Background

Background

B1. 12/2/35 Letter from HLC to Douglas T. Johnston:

”…First, thank you for your letter mentioned in our telephone conversation. I am glad H.H.R. [Health Home Remedies] is on its way. This tie up here is delaying us for at least a few days and I will advise you as quickly as possible regarding just when I will return to Virginia Beach. I hope that House and I will be able to come up for a few days before Christmas, so things may be under way by January 1. I like the idea of the letters to members. Some of them will definitely be interested.

“Now in regard to our difficulties here. On Thursday, November 21, a Mr. Mitshkun, recommended by a friend of the gentlemen in whose house we are staying, had a reading for his daughter who is very ill with asthma. As usual he did not tell us anything of the condition before the reading. The reading plainly indicated a disturbance in the respiratory system but did not call it asthma nor give the basic cause of the girl’s trouble as being asthma. The man did not understand the reading. He was stubborn and insisted that the treatments suggested were in no way connected with his girl’s trouble. Dad was completely tired out after this reading, indicating a difficult mental attitude.

“It seems that Mitshkun took the reading to two doctors and they told him the thing was worthless (an old story). Incidentally he did not pay for his membership nor ask for the money to be returned to his friend who paid for him. Instead he lodged a complaint with the police department. They sent a Mr. L. A. King (an assumed name) who pretended to have a sick child. We explained the work to him, but did not give a reading for him. On Saturday, just at the close of a reading, four officers came in and arrested the four of us on a charge of practicing medicine without a license. The complaint was signed by Mitshkun and included giving treatments (false), making suggestions for appliances (Wet Cell), giving advice with remuneration (not so on membership basis), etc. Apparently a health officer was one of the four men making the arrest.

“We were taken down to the station and subjected to a very trying experience involving registration, etc. I was naturally particularly distressed over Mother and Dad. As it was Saturday our friends had difficulty in getting hold of the necessary judges to authorize the release. This was accomplished Saturday night without bail, thus saving us a night in a very modern but rather filthy jail. This morning we went down and obtained bond of $200 each. A hearing is called for Thursday morning of this week.

“Yesterday, Sunday, we had a lawyer here, a good friend of the judge’s, they tell me, and properly connected politically here. Such things mean a great deal where strangers like ourselves are involved. This lawyer was talked to by some twenty very good friends and members who gathered here and the work thoroughly explained. He feels that the case will be thrown out on Thursday unless the doctors who read the reading are called in to testify. We are not allowed, I understand, to present any of our witnesses or evidence on Thursday other than a cross questioning of the witnesses or evidence on Thursday other than a cross questioning of the witnesses they call. Within the hour we have been informed that our lawyer has found some information pertaining to psychic work in a Michigan law. I am not sure just what bearing this will have on the case. If the case must come to trial it will not be set until the next term which is sometime in January. This will necessitate our return to Detroit and also a necessary participation by the Association as an organization to fight this charge.

“Mr. Harry Bonelli, General Manager of the Buick Plant in Detroit, who received very wonderful relief from an attack of kidney stone last week, and Mr. Harry Winegarden, a furniture dealer from Flint, Michigan, whose son is being helped through readings, put up $400 each for bond. Friends here have arranged to take care of lawyer’s fees. There is only one serious problem at the moment. None of our friends here, that is close friends, have property in Detroit which could be put up as security thus preventing the outlay of cash. In case the bond is raised, taking into consideration that the worst might happen, it would be necessary for us to raise some more cash at very quick notice. The lawyer tells me that this is not probable but I would not for anything have Mother and Dad go through the experience of being in jail even for a short time. They questioned Dad for half an hour on Saturday trying to get him to admit the work was a fake. He has not been able to give readings since that time but hopes to be able to resume work tomorrow.

“I would appreciate it very much if you will arrange to have wires come from yourself, Parker, Kahn and any others there you care to notify just to stimulate Dad and Mother. Too, the psychological effect on the people here will be good. As a matter of courtesy and to strengthen the understanding of the men involved I think it would be fine to send a wire to Mr. Harry Bonelli, Buick Motor Co., Detroit, Michigan, and to Harry Winegarden, Los Plaza, Detroit, Michigan, thanking them for handling the matter of the bond here for the Association. These coming from you as Chairman of the Board of Trustees, or from the members and Trustees as a whole in New York would be very good and might be of use to show to the Judge. We will of course rely strongly on the Association as a research organization. We have a copy of our Charter here and all other necessary data.

“If it is possible to arrange it would be very well to at least have 1,000 available here for Bond on Thursday in case the amount of Bond is raised to 500 each, due to our leaving the city before the trial. Mr. Parker would, I am sure, know of some method to make this available through a bank here to be used only if necessary for Bond. Otherwise everything is taken care of. People have been most loyal and helpful.

“Two of the doctors here are standing by in case we need them. We do not want to involve them in fights with their local associations unless necessary at a later trial. Others of the doctors who have come in have not handled enough cases to be thoroughly in sympathy and hence we are reluctant about drawing them into the picture.

“A Mr. Newman, who has a great many political friends, is doing everything possible to prepare the way for a dismissal on Thursday. Mr. A. Warshawsky, with whom we are staying, is also working through friends on the bench. In one wire

• a nightletter will do it - to Dad, kindly mention appreci- ation for their efforts (Newman and Warshawsky) the New York Trustees. I hope you will understand these suggestions. I feel that if these men here have something more than just our word for your attitude as officers of the Association it will make them think a great deal more of the organization and, indeed, make them more active in regard to it. Naturally what they have done and will do - as with us all
• is motivated by a personal feeling for Dad, but his work cannot live without a thorough understanding of the Association as an organization standing behind him and truly reaching and helping him to reach ever widening circles.

“With kindest regards to you and your family…” HLC

B2. 12/16/35 Letter from HLC to Douglas T. Johnston:

”…The arraignment mentioned in my wire did not take place until Tuesday, December 10. We left Detroit that afternoon and drove to Dayton, Ohio, where we met members and friends and gave a reading for a Mr. Robinson connected with the McCall’s Magazine. I mention him because he is extremely interested in the work and has offered to assist in our publication program.

“We certainly appreciated your prompt reply to my letter explaining the Detroit situation. Both the wires and funds were most helpful. I used 800 of the amount you sent to put up for bonds of 200 each. The bonds placed for us were discontinued at the time of the hearing and Mr. Bonelli and Winegarden were not present at the hearing. I had the remaining $400 returned to you through the bank and I am enclosing the receipt given me by the bank for that amount.

“Mr. Bonelli talked with the Judge who heard the case again and was told by him that it really amounted to very little and at the worst was just a small fine. Of course this is not the point at all and it will be necessary for us to obtain a complete vindication.

“Office work here has of course piled up during our absence and with the necessity of getting out the December Bulletin before Christmas I feel that it will be better for House and I to come to New York during the first week of January. At that time we will have the opportunity of going over the complete plans for H.H.R. Corp., the publication program for the coming year and the details of the Detroit situation.

“We are to be advised by Mr. O’Leary, the Detroit Lawyer, as to the time set for the trial. If possible we may have this delayed as much as possible to avoid the undesirable weather there during January and February.

“We are having a reading on the Detroit situation at an early date and I will mail you a copy at once. I have considered suggesting the calling of a Trustees’ meeting, or Executive Committee meeting to be held in New York at your convenience during the time I am there in January for the purpose of discussing the Detroit situation, the publications and the arrangement with the Health Home Remedies Corp. This latter will of course be done through the letters you suggest. It is possible that much more may be accomplished through contact with the individual trustees rather than a meeting, yet with the publishing of the first of the articles on my father and his work to be written by Sugrue and to begin in January or February the Association will become more of a distinct entity and will need the guidance and cooperative effort of its trustees. I will write you again about this after the reading on the work. If you have any questions you would care to present for this reading please let me have them.

“Mr. James R. Ashley, a member of the Association there in New York and one whom I hope you have met by this time, wired a friend of his in Detroit who knows a number of able lawyers there. I talked with Mrs. Dohaney, this friend, several times and she is to write the Ashleys any suggestions she may have about handling the case after she has talked with several of her friends. She is also going to obtain a check on Mr. O’Leary, as to his standing and ability. We had to take the advice of friends and the whole thing was rushed through in a hurry in order to obtain our immediate release. I will see and talk with Mr. Ashley in New York and I am anxious for you to meet him as he is a very fine man and is deeply interested in the work.

“I regret the delay on the H.H.R. activities but with the difficulties in Detroit our time has been cut much shorter as to the period here before Christmas than we expected…” [HLC]

B3. 12/35 through spring of 1936 see EC’s letters to A.R.E. trustees and members giving details re. Detroit arrest, trial, etc., especially [257], [489], [1021], [264], [779], [853], [1192], etc.

Mentioned Entities

A.R.E. (Association for Research and Enlightenment), Hugh Lynn Cayce, Gladys Davis, Trial of Jesus, New York City, Gertrude Cayce, Purpose, David Kahn, King David, Virginia Beach, Law of Moses, Law of One, Subconscious Mind, Thomas Sugrue, John (Apostle), Wet Cell, Arizona, Chicago, Dayton Ohio, Dreams

Source: The Complete Edgar Cayce Readings, A.R.E. CD-ROM (2006). Reading 254-89, ReadingID 1227.