The purpose of espionage is to gather information-preferably, useful information-against the wishes of, and in spite of the efforts of, a group-usually referred to as "the enemy"-which is endeavoring to prevent that information from getting into other hands than their own.
"The Foreign Hand Tie"
Gordon Randall Garrett
Parlor, bedroom, and bath, with southern exposure, preferably above the sixth floor.
"The Gray Phantom's Return"
Herman Landon
The cleaning which always follows the use of the equipment is preferably done in groups.
"Ontario Teachers' Manuals: Household Management"
Ministry of Education