it is not merely my assumption that few people read this blog, Site Metre gives me the facts. as well as the odd info that so many people are doing web searches on the word 'tributary'. no, they aren't seeking my blog, but I don't know for what they seek. I thank Chris Murray (of Texfiles, which see) for noting this blog's existence. I sure as hell can keep going sans audience, but it's nice to think a person or two is reading. I believe it is particularly at this point that Henry Gould (in the wilds of Providence RI) and I (amidst the coyote, deer and owls of Bedford MA) meet.