The Rambles of an Idler 



CHAPTER ONE 



IMPRESSIONS 



It is well to make sure of every passing 

 thought. Later, it may prove the text of an 

 effective sermon. The same is true of much 

 that is suddenly recollected. Why the past re- 

 turns, let the psychologist determine. If we 

 can gather figs from such thistles, it is all that 

 need concern the most of us. 



I have before me a fragment of a diary, dated 

 "Fourth day, Oct. 1, 1800." Here is incon- 

 sistency at the very outset. The language of 

 the Quaker and the man of the world in one 

 sentence. Does it mean my great-grandfather 

 was a Friend on First Day and otherwise, 

 through the week? 



He starts to drive from "Abbott's Landing' 1 

 1 



