"The first track is the end of a string.  At the far end, a being is moving; a mystery, dropping a hint about itself every so many feet, telling you more about itself until you can almost see it, even before you come to it.  The mystery reveals itself slowly, track by track, giving its genealogy early to coax you in.  Further on, it will tell you the intimate details of its life and work, until you know the maker of the track like a lifelong friend."

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There are only four types of officer. First, there are the lazy, stupid ones. Leave them alone, they do no harm…Second, there are the hard- working, intelligent ones. They make excellent staff officers, ensuring that every detail is properly considered. Third, there are the hard- working, stupid ones. These people are a menace and must be fired at once. They create irrelevant work for everybody. Finally, there are the intelligent, lazy ones. They are suited for the highest office.

— Erich von Manstein