Wells abandoned this early version of the story after three installments. He may not have
liked it, but it’s a fun historical read—and the first mention that I’ve seen of time
as the fourth dimension.
— Michael Main
Those who were there say that they saw Dr. Nebogipfel, standing in the toneless electric
glare, on a peculiar erection of brass and ebony and ivory; and that he seemed to be
smiling at them, half pityingly and half scornfully, as it is said martyrs are wont to
smile.