We both are the belittled human race , One as compared with God and one with space . I had thought ours the more profound disgrace ; But doubtless this was only my conceit . The cloister and the observatory saint Take comfort in about the same complaint. So science and religion really meet.[…]

Supper had been eaten, the turkey had been trussed, the children at last persuaded into their beds. That was the consolatory side of family life, Grorley thought—the long, Olympian codas of the emotions were cut short by the niggling detail.

Their efforts represented a sincere bid for success.

As hard as this may seem for some people to understand, my adamant stand in favor of President Clinton leaving his post was not personal.