"Any man is. But, you know, there are some persons who are troubled with very tender consciences, and who are exceedingly nice in stepping along, lest they tread upon somebody's toes. Of course they make but slow progress; if, indeed, two steps backwards are not taken to every one forwards." "Dunbar, if I understand his character aright, is not troubled with any such tenderness of conscience. He will let people take care of their own toes." "So I should think, from what little I have seen of him. Would you not do well to associate him with you in your larger practice? You have had his assistance so long, that I should think you could hardly do without him." "Just what I have been thinking about. It would give him a chance, and really take nothing from me; for I have more practice than I can attend to properly. And, besides I feel a pride in the young man, and want to see him distinguish himself. His talents must not be hidden under a bushel." In a day or two, the lawyer who had been his preceptor, said to Lawrence— "Have you found an office to suit you?" "Not yet," was replied. "I have seen two or three, but do not like the locations." "You are still determined to commence your profession in this city?" "Oh, yes. I have no ambition to be a mere country lawyer. I feel that I have talents, and I wish to give them an appropriate sphere." "You mean to rise in your profession?" "I do, in spite of all difficulties." "Your progress will be slow at first." "I am aware of that. But I have patience, and can 'bide my time.' I shall not be so foolish as to attempt to run before I can walk, and thus incur the risk of stumbling. But I will be content to creep, then walk, and afterwards run." "Wisely resolved. Above all things, hold fast to the spirit of patience. Impatience clouds the mind, and leads, inevitably, to mistakes. In the profession you have chosen, you will need a cool head and a firm heart. The one you will find as requisite as the other." "Of that I am convinced. Indispensable to success, especially in law, is a certain sternness as well as firmness of purpose. It will not do to give place to amiable weaknesses, or deferences to the feelings and interests of others. This would be to look back after having once grasped the plough. As for me, I am not made of such yielding stuff. My very life-purpose is to rise, and I mean to make all else bend to that purpose."