Introduction

Summary

You may recall, dear reader, that there was a remark towards the end of the Philosophical Crumbs, an item that might be taken as the promise of a sequel. True, as a promise that remark (‘in case I ever write a next part’) was as casual as could be and as far as possible from a solemn vow. Nor, therefore, have I felt bound by that promise, even if it was my intention from the start to fulfil it and the requirement was already to hand. As far as that goes, the promise could just as well have been made with great solemnity, in optima forma; but it would have been inconsistent to publish a piece that by its nature is incapable of creating a sensation, nor intended to, and then introduce a solemn promise which, if anything, is calculated to create a stir and would decidedly have created a huge one too. You no doubt know how it goes. An author publishes a very big book; hardly a week goes by before he falls into conversation with a reader who, out of polite solicitude, asks with eager concern whether he won't soon be writing a new book. The author is enchanted: having a reader who works his way so rapidly through a big book and in spite of the effort remains enthusiastic.