There has long been debate as to which is the speedier, truth or error; which spreads faster, false report or denial. Some have maintained that truth has sturdier and surer wings. Others contend that fiction and careless rumor find more willing tongues to speed them on their way. Long ago, Tacitus, the Roman historian, gave his judgment in these words: "Truth is confirmed by inspection and delay: falsehood by haste and uncertainty."