I lost a friend. I know the feeling. I understand the implications. But, I can’t change the situation. I need to accept and move on. It is the case everywhere. No one is given a second chance. At least in fiction, we can imagine what things would be like if given an opportunity. The Golden Opportunity to revive a friend. This story is about friendship between teenagers that takes them on an expedition to unexpected places, unearth a new set of challenges and face their emotions towards one another. The evolution of their relationship among themselves and with their parents made a compelling story to be told. I wish you joy as you embark on a journey in your mind with these characters. I wish you the same pleasure reading this book as I had in writing it. “A fun, fast-paced story filled with magic, mystery, and adventure.” –David Aretha, Moonbeam Children’s Book Award winner

Reprint of the original, first published in 1875.

This society, probably the most pernicious association which has ever existed in Europe, was, or is-for we have no proofs that it has ceased to exist-an association of blacklegs, thieves, extortioners, rogues and villains of every kind... -from "The Camorra" From the modern intrigue of conspiracy theories to the immense popularity of The Da Vinci Code, the fascination with secret societies-and their arcane knowledge and power-has never been so rampant. This monumental, encyclopedic work details the initiations and ceremonies, the codes and customs of mysterious organizations from ancient times to the modern world. First published in 1875 and completely revised and updated in 1897, this remains the definitive, authoritative guide to secret societies... and to the spiritual evolution of humanity they represent. Volume I explores: the Magi and the Mithraics . Egyptian priests and kings Chinese metaphysics . the Druids . Cabbalism and Gnosticism pagan rites and myths echoed in Christianity . heretics the Assassins and the Dervishes . chivalrous knights the Inquisition . Alchemy . the Mafia . the Illuminati and much more. Also available from Cosimo Classics: The Secret Societies of All Ages & Countries: Vol. 2. British historian and author CHARLES WILLIAM HECKETHORN (c. 1826-1902) was born in Switzerland but emigrated to England as a child. Among his writings are a novel, a book of verse, translations of Scandinavian folklore, and the travelogues Italian Lights and Shadows, London Souvenirs, and London Memories.