Interpretations 



strip it of its garb. This the inevitable result 

 of our imperfection as interpreters, and he who 

 is quickest to unlearn becomes at last the most 

 learned. It is not more necessary to acquire 

 facts than to unload false impressions. The 

 weak view that it reflects upon our intelligence 

 to admit that we have been misled is ever a 

 prominent obstacle in the pathway to a right un- 

 derstanding. 



This is March 21st and with a full apprecia- 

 tion of the conditions that now are, here I find 

 myself at the parting of the ways. I hope for, 

 indeed, rather confidently believe and plan ac- 

 cording to what I think is before me, and all is 

 based upon experience. But not a bird or a 

 frog that gives heed to a recollection of another 

 year, if it has one ; yet every one of these crea- 

 tures is equally confident with myself as to that 

 which is approaching. The power that tells 

 them denies me the same knowledge. So far 

 only am I confident. This then the difference 

 between human and non-human life, and it is a 

 wide one ; but seen in another light, we are not 

 so far apart. I am hopeful of fair weather, 

 abundant sunshine and budding trees. They 

 are sure of it. Other possibilities never occur 



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