"I listened in on my father's conversations with his colleagues and acquaintances while I was growing up, and I unconsciously adopted his politics and philosophy as my own. Most of the admirers who came to share his wisdom were already predisposed to accept his words as gospel; Father's personality was so strong and his delivery so forceful that I saw very few people who ever seemed to express disagreement with his stands on issues." Chapter 1, pg. 21

"My mother withheld any sign of approval of Toddy's and my relationship, but I was thrilled that Father proffered his so readily. Later, as we prepared to leave, he walked us out to the car and made a point of telling Toddy that she was always welcome in his home with or without any of his children, and I knew that he had gained another fan for life." Chapter 2, pg. 51

"The colonel...