| In the old days of slavery in the United States of America, when men and women escaped from their cruel masters, they knew that the Pole Star (also known as the North Star), would lead them north to Canada and freedom if they followed it precisely. They traveled by night for fear of being recaptured, and therefore they learned little of the geography of the country. As they hastened through the woods and forded the streams they did not stop to collect botanical specimens or stop to admire the views. As they hurried through the towns and villages, they had nothing to do with their betterment, cleanup, or municipal politics. They minded one thing, the Pole Star. |