I STAND SENTRY There are (say some) but two things worth the trouble of making in the world--war and love.

So once upon a time I believed.

But since--being laid up during the unkindly monotony of our Baltic spring by an ancient wound--I fell to the writing of this history, I would add to these two worthy adventures--the making of books.

Which, till I tried my hand at the task myself, I would in no wise have allowed.

But now, when the days are easterly of wind and the lashing water beats on the leaded lozenges of our window lattice, I am fain to stretch myself, take up a new pen, and be at it again all day.
But I must e'en think of them that are to read me, and of their pain if I overstretch my privilege.