"Yes," answered James. "I think I could make a good carpenter, for I know something about that trade already, and I daresay I could make a good trader if I could find an opening to learn the business; but it takes a superior man to succeed in the positions you mention." "There are plenty of men with only average ability who get along very creditably; but I advise you, if you make up your mind to enter the lists, to try for a high place." The boy's eyes sparkled with new ambition. It was a favorite idea with him afterward, that every man ought to feel an honorable ambition to succeed as well as possible in his chosen path. "One thing more," added Bates. "I don't think you have any right to become a sailor." "No right? Oh, you mean because mother objects." "That, certainly, ought to weigh with you as a good son; but I referred to something else." "What then?" "Do you remember the parable of the talents?" James had been brought up by his mother, who was a devoted religious woman, to read the Bible, and he answered in the affirmative. "It seems to me that you are responsible for the talents which God has bestowed upon you. If you have the ability or the brain, as you call it, to insure success in a literary career, don't you think you would throw yourself away if you became a sailor?" Mrs. Garfield, who had listened with deep interest to the remarks of the young man, regarded James anxiously, to see what effect these arguments were having upon him. She did not fear disobedience. She knew that if she should make it a personal request, James was dutiful enough to follow her wishes; but she respected the personal independence of her children, and wanted to convince, rather than to coerce, them. "If I knew positively that you were right in your estimate of me, Mr. Bates, I would go in for a course of study." "Consult some one in whose judgment you have confidence, James," said the teacher, promptly. "Can you suggest any one?" asked the boy. "Yes, Dr. J.P. Robinson, of Bedford, is visiting at the house of President Hayden, of Hiram College. You have heard of him?" "Yes." "He is a man of ripe judgment, and you can rely implicitly on what he says." "As soon as I am well enough I will do as you advise," said James. "Then I am satisfied. I am sure the doctor will confirm my advice." "Mr. Bates," said Mrs. Garfield, as she followed out the young teacher, "I am much indebted to you for your advice to James. It is in accordance with my wishes. If he should decide to obtain an education, where would you advise him to go?" "To the seminary where I have obtained all the education I possess," answered the young man. "Where is it?" "It is called the 'Geauga Seminary,' and is located in Chester, in the next county. For a time it will be sufficient to meet all James' needs. When he is further advanced he can go to Hiram College."