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Part II (8-28) The author has traveled for six weeks, hitching 82 rides and (1) ________ 4,223 miles across 14 states. No matter where he went, he was treated with kindness and care. Two old ladies in Nebraska offered the author a ride, and one of them said that she would rather (2) ________ her life than feel (3) ________ about passing a stranger in need of help. People in every state bought him food and (4) ________whatever they happened to have with him. The author was also invited by strangers either to have a simple dinner with their family or to spend the night in their homes. He was so (5) ________ to all the people for their rides, food, shelter and gifts. He was amazed by the stubborn capacity of Americans to help a stranger, even when it seemed to run (6) ________ to their own best interests.