Wood is a gift from the world of nature to we undeserving men...One should be thankful for such gifts, take no more than we need, and waste none of t… - Sean Russell

"My older cousins teased us—my sisters and brothers—with tales that Erasmus Flattery was a mage. We were all struck dumb in his presence, terrified that he would practice some enchantment upon us. In truth, we always hoped to see some magic, but of course we never did." She laughed again. "Children do love to believe such things."

One of the lessons of age, he said softly. Do not waste what time you have in regret.

"Tristam," the old man said softly. "If I may be completely candid, you are the poorest liar. Lack of experience, no doubt—which is to your credit."