handkerchief or a sheep.

Forethought is the tap on the bell, the push of the bow, the draw on
the saber. It is the deliberate yet rapid action of the mind when
before falling to sleep or dismissing thought we _bid_ the mind to
subsequently respond. It is more than merely thinking what we are to
do; it is the bidding or ordering self to fulfill a task before
willing it.

Forethought in the senses employed or implied as here described means
much more than mere previous consideration or reflection, which may be
very feeble. It is, in fact, "constructive," which, as inventive,
implies _active_ thought. "Forethought stimulates, aids the success of
honest aims." Therefore, as the active principle in mental work, I
regard it as a kind of self-impulse, or that minor part in the
division of the force employed which sets the major into action. Now,
if we really understand this and can succeed in employing Forethought
as the preparation for, and impulse to, Self-Suggestion, we shall
greatly aid the success of the latter, because the former insures
attention and interest. Forethought may be brief, but it should always
be energetic. By cultivating it we acquire the enviable talent of
those men who take in everything at a glance, and act promptly, like a
NAPOLEON. This power is universally believed to be entirely innate or
a gift; but it can be induced or developed in all minds in proportion
to the will by practice.

Be it observed that as the experimenter progresses in the development
of will by suggestion, he can gradually lay aside the latter, or all
_processes_, especially if he work to such an end, anticipating it.
Then he simply acts by clear will and strength, and Forethought