Epigraph
There is a history in all men’s lives,
Figuring the nature of the times deceased;
The which observed, a man may prophesy,
With a near aim, of the main chance of things
As yet not come to life; which in their seeds
And weak beginnings lie intreasured.
Shakespeare, 2 Henry IV., III. i.
They pass through whirl-pools, and deep woes do shun,
Who the event weigh, ’ere the action’s done.
Webster, Duchess of Malfi, II. 4.