Normally our rules are rigid; we tend to discretion, if for no other
reason than self-protection. We never recommend any of our graduates,
although we cheerfully provide information as to those who have failed
their courses.
-- Jack Vance, "Freitzke's Turn"
It is well to know something of the manners of various
people in order more sanely to judge our own, and that we do
not think that everything against our modes is ridiculous, and
against reason, as those who have seen nothing are accustomed
to think....