"But it is altogether impracticable. A kind of Utopian philosophy—beautiful to look upon, but impossible to introduce into real life." "Not at all, Lawrence. I believe that my father strictly regards the good of others in every business transaction." "He has that reputation certainly, and, I will believe, justly. I have heard my father say, that he was the most rigidly honest and unselfish man he had ever known. But, look at the result. Your father has attained neither wealth nor eminence, though a man of good mind." "The reason is plain. Want of education, and early opportunity. But we have just what he lacked." "Well, Lloyd," returned Dunbar, "all that I have to say on this subject is, that if you have any fancy for this looking after other people's affairs, I have not. I think I shall find just as much as I can well do in looking after and taking care of my own. My father has set his heart on seeing me rise in the world, and has sacrificed much to that end: he shall not be disappointed, unless the Fates are against me. I mean to rise. If I fail in my purpose, the fault shall not lie at my door." "And I mean to rise also," said Hudson, in a calm, yet firm voice. "All these severe and prolonged studies which I have entered into and passed through, cannot remain unproductive in my mind. They will give me the power of self-elevation; and that power I intend calling into full requisition. What the particular result will be, I cannot tell, nor am I in any concern about it. That all will come out right, both in regard to myself and others, I do not doubt." CHAPTER II. BEGINNING TO RISE. LAW was finally decided upon as the profession for Lawrence Dunbar, and he was placed in the office of an attorney named Harker. At the same time, Hudson commenced the study of medicine. To sustain these young men for two or three years longer, required sacrifices to be made at home. The father of Dunbar had already unjustly deprived his daughters of many advantages, in order to provide for the elevation of the family through the eminence to be acquired by the son; and now he proposed that they should learn trades, in order to support themselves, and relieve him of the burden of their maintenance.