ABSTRACT
Historical reading born of passing events is likely to be haphazard and sketchy, but it is certainly better than none. A casual, ad hoc type of reading is far from likely to yield the deeper results of historical study. A self-stimulated interest, one based upon a fixed ambition to master some select period of history, and to do it by systematic, intensive reading, is of course far more valuable. The businessman has every reason to be interested in economic history and the careers of industrial leaders; the lawyer, in constitutional history. In the political sphere, the history of mankind is strewn with instances in which true statesmanship has produced prosperity and happiness, while its lack has brought about terrible calamities. In moments of party triumph or national exaltation, history teaches a wise humility; in moments of darkness, confusion, or pain it teaches a wise patience.
