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Emerson conquered the most subtle temptation that can beset a man of his type. He was openly a teacher, and the teacher's natural tendency is the wish to be looked to for continual guidance. But Emerson was too pure a soul to show the teacher's egotism. He wished to set others firm on their own feet. Mr. Woodbury tells us how, finding himself differing from his revered master, he went and stated his case. Emerson deliberated, then, with his bright kindly look: "Well, I do not wish disciples." It was a shock, but a healthy one. It shook the pupil off from his support, but thereby he learned to walk alone.

-- Notebooks Category 1: Overview of the Quest > Chapter 6 : Student-Teacher > # 373