Question

from walden
one says to me, \i wonder that you do not lay up money; you love to travel; you might take the cars and go to fitchburg to - day and see the country.\ but i am wiser than that. i have learned that the swiftest traveller is he that goes afoot. i say to my friend, suppose we try who will get there first. the distance is thirty miles; the fare ninety cents. that is almost a days wages. i remember when wages were sixty cents a day for laborers on this very road. well, i start now on foot, and get there before night; i have travelled at that rate by the week together. you will in the meanwhile have earned your fare, and arrive there sometime tomorrow, or possibly this evening, if you are lucky enough to get a job in season. instead of going to fitchburg, you will be working here the greater part of the day.
(from walden by henry david thoreau)
what is the meaning of thoreaus statement i have learned that the swiftest traveller is he that goes afoot?

1. walking for travel is the preferred method, because it is a healthy form of exercise.
2. people should travel by walking to places, so they can enjoy the views of the countryside.
3. companions usually slow someone down, so it is best to travel by walking and to travel alone.
4. since walking is free, a person doesnt have to work to pay for the fare and can start immediately.

Explanation:

Thoreau notes that the cost of travel by car (fare of ninety - cents, almost a day's wages) requires working to earn the fare, delaying the journey. Walking is free, allowing one to start immediately. So, he implies that walking is swiftest in terms of not being hindered by financial and work - related delays.

Answer:

1. Since walking is free, a person doesn't have to work to pay for the fare and can start immediately.