The result is more than amusing anecdote. Thacher Longstreth entered the world just as his WASP and Quaker forebears were losing their power and prestige. Much of his life has therefore been devoted to "unlearning the cozy assumptions of my ancestors." Yet he has managed to keep his heritage alive in a changing world: turning the other cheek when it seemed political suicide; living his ideals, no matter how inexpedient; and never, ever losing his sense of humor. By refusing to take himself seriously, and staying loyal to family, friends, community, and tradition, he has shown that...