They are the concentrated wisdom--of--of the ages, as it were.

Yes, I should be quite willing to decide the matter by a proverb." He looked at Mr.Dale eagerly, but this especial piece of wisdom still eluded the older man.
"It begins," said Mr.Dale, hesitating, and fixing his eyes upon the ceiling,--"it begins--let me see.

'When in doubt'-- ah"-- "What is it ?" gasped Mr.Denner.

"That has a familiar sound, but I cannot seem to finish it.

When in doubt, what ?" "Well," answered his friend ruefully, "it is not quite--it does not exactly apply.