Declare

EPIGRAPH

Birthdays? yes, in a general way;

For the most if not for the best of men:

You were born (I suppose) on a certain day:

So was I: or perhaps in the night: what then?

Only this: or at least, if more,

You must know, not think it, and learn, not speak:

There is truth to be found on the unknown shore,

And many will find what few would seek.

J.K. Stephen, inaccurately quoted in a letter from

St. John Philby to his son, Kim Philby, March 15, 1932

Where wast thou when I laid the foundations of the earth?

Declare, if thou hast understanding.

Job 38:4