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I grew up in Maluns without brother or sister. I was the lonely child of a lonely family, for despite being the miller and, therefore, a relatively important member of that small society, my father was very much outcast for the sake of my mother, whose suspect religious affiliations afforded our family few favors with those who wished to be seen as friends of the Concord.

I recall from those early days of my life that our home was not a happy one. My mother never forgave me f...