"But after a time, as Frodo did not show any sign of writing a book on the spot, the hobbits returned to their question about doings in the Shire." Lord of the Rings, J.R.R. Tolkien

For my mother, Ruth Cheswick, whose maiden name shall not be revealed because this is a security book, and for my father Richard Reid Cheswick, who taught me about Monday mornings, and many other things. And to Terry, Kestrel and Lorrett, who had to put up with lenghty spates of grumpy editing sessions. W.R.C.

To my parents, Sam and Sylvia Bellovin, for everything and to Diane, Rebecca, and Daniel, for all the best reasons in the world. S.M.B.

To my wife, Ann, my favorite person in the world; and to my children, Elana, Tamara, and Benny, the three best things that ever happened to me. A.D.R.