feel that even in our low estate there are capacities allying us with
our exemplar. The first vision of excellence is overwhelming. We draw
back, knowing that we do not look like that, and we cannot bear to
behold what is so superior. But by degrees, feeling our kinship with
excellence, we are befriended.

I would not, then, make rigid statements in regard to this point of
method. Grateful as I believe we should be for every sense of need,
this is obviously not enough. To some extent we must have in mind the
betterment which we may obtain through supplying that need. Yet I do
not think a full plan of our ultimate goal is usually desirable. In
small matters it is often possible and convenient. I plan my stay in
Europe before going there. I figure my business prospects before
forming a partnership. But in profounder affairs, I more wisely set
out from the thought of the present, and the patent need of improving
it, than from the future with its ideal perfection. Goethe's rule is a
good one:--

"Willst du ins Unendliebe schreiten?
So sucht das Endliche, nach allen Seiten."

Would you reach the infinite? Then enter into finite things, working
out all that they contain.



IX

If in working them out a test is wanted to enable us to decide whether
we are working wisely or to our harm, I believe such a test may be