Is it not shameful that fanatics are full of zeal, and that the learned have none? One ought to be prudent, but not timid.

Voltaire (1694-1778)
Writer

“Mermoz was soon entrusted with the first test runs of the seaplanes over the ocean. “We’ll soon be arriving in the Doldrums,” the navigator shouted into Mermoz’s ears. The Doldrums! The great obstacle, the eternal hurdle, about which so many navigators had spoken to Mermoz. The pilot had to traverse this formidable zone; how was he going to get through? Mermoz tightened his grip on the controls and settled his feet squarely on the rudder. Then, a light touch on his shoulder made him turn his head. Gimié handed him a paper on which he had hastily scribbled large words. Thinking it was something about the weather, Mermoz impatiently shouted, “What is it all about?” But Gimié put the paper right in front of him, on the yoke. Mermoz read: “My John I’m with you. stop. Mom.” Madame Mermoz’s telegram had arrived seven hours late. Mermoz read and reread his mother’s words. In the middle of the ocean… in mid-flight… on the threshold of the Doldrums… this message of love, this absolute miracle! Then, in the last glow of the day, rising out of the green and pink sea, Mermoz saw the gigantic, black wall of clouds. He squared his shoulders for the charge and dove in. He no longer had any worries, he was protected!”

Joseph Kessel (1898-1979)
Novelist