here there are practically none. They are being made now, every day, by the
present judges. Naturally personal influence might get a hearing for one
point of view or the other--"

"I see what you mean," he agreed, his face clearing.

"Join a good fire company," she advised him. "That is the first thing to
do. Each company represents something different, a different class of men."

"Which would you advise?" asked Keith seriously.

"That is a matter for your own judgment. Only, investigate well. Meet all
the people you can. Know the newspaper men, and the big merchants. In your
profession you must cultivate men like Terry, Girvin, Shattuck, Gwin. Keep
your eyes open. Be bold and use your wits. Above all, make friends; that's
it, _make friends_--everybody, everywhere. Don't despise anybody. You will
get plenty of chances." She was sitting erect, and her eyes were flashing.
Her usual slow indolent grace had fallen from her; she radiated energy. Her
slender figure took on a new appearance of knit strength. "Such chances! My
heavens! if I were a man!"

"You'd make a bully man!" cried Keith. Mrs. Morrell, uttering the same
wish, had received from him a different reply, but he had forgotten that.

She laughed again, the tension broke, and she sank back into her usual
relaxed poise.

"But, thank heavens, I'm not," said she.