It is suggested that the reader not attempt to read this book at one sitting. The emotional content of these stories, taken without break, may be extremely upsetting. This note is intended most sincerely, and not as hyperbole.
H.E.
"If God did not exist, it would be necessary to invent him."
–VOLTAIRE:
Epître à M. Saurin,
10 Novembre 1770
"It is expedient there should be a gods, and, since it is expedient, let us believe that gods exist."
–OVID: Ars Amatoria I
"Men rarely (if ever) manage to dream up a god superior to themselves. Most gods have the manners and morals of a spoiled child."
—ROBERT A. HEINLEIN, 1973