Yes, you will think I am mad, but here is a quote from War and Peace by Tolstoy, which I have decided to try again, Cran Cran is right, it is tough going but worthwhile if you stick to it, so....
Pierre Bezuhov, a millionaire count is about to fight a duel with Dolohov, a bully and a defeated and returning soldier from the lost battle of Austerlitz.
Dolohov is discussing the upcoming duel with his second, Denisov.
''Look here, in a couple of words, i'll let you into the whole secret of duelling. If you are going to fight a duel and the day before you make a will and write loving letters to your parents, and if you think you may be killed - You're a fool and as good as done for.
But go with the firm intention of killing your man as quickly and surely as possible, then everything will be alright.
As our bear-huntsman from Kostromo used to say to me: ''A bear,'' he'd say, ''sure everyone's afraid of a bear- but once you set eyes on him your only fear is that he will get away!'' Well, that is how it is with me.
A demain, mon cher.'' (Tr: Until tomorrow, sweetheart).
I think it means don't be so defeatist, not even Barrow are relegated yet so don't be making your wills out just yet!
Mind you, fine speeches don't stop the bully and narrator Dolohov getting shot and wounded in the duel.
