THE SECRET AND METHOD There is a simile of Herbert Spencer's, in his book on Sociology, which has often helped me in dealing with great moral problems.

He says: "You see that wrought-iron plate is not quite flat; it sticks up a little here towards the left, 'cockles,' as we say.

How shall we flatten it?
Obviously, you reply, by hitting down on the part that is prominent.

Well, here is a hammer, and I give the plate a blow as you advise.

Harder, you say.