David pondered. His uncle, who saw too little of the world even to understand the slightest of its parts, was by his ignorance able to take Business as the whole, throw all of himself upon it, and be rich. Mr. Barlow understood the pattern of life’s parts, was able to make a pleasant game of that portion of it where he found himself. And he earned an excellent living, even if he was not rich. “You are happier than my uncle.” At once, Mr. Barlow was pensive. “Happiness is the biggest fraud of all, David. Have no dealings with it. If it tries to make terms with you, cut it dead.” David noticed a peculiar trait. When Mr. Barlow’s face was in repose, as now, there was a sweet sadness upon it. But he could change this. It was as if he were aware of David looking at his sadness. His quick clear eyes began to twinkle as if this were in itself a joke. “We must not compare happiness. That’s all nonsense.” “What then is serious?” “What is serious?” He leaned back and took David in. “It is serious that you should leave this office this very moment and go meandering as your fancy prompts. Go!... Get along.” David ran for his hat. “Well, that is for my happiness, is it not?” “It is not! It is for your health.” Mr. Barlow looked very stern. David hesitated at the door. He came back to Mr. Barlow’s side and once more, this time timidly, put his outstretched fingers on the blotter. “You know how much I appreciate you, don’t you, Mr. Barlow?” Mr. Barlow took up a letter, screwed his glasses grimacingly to his nose, and began to read. “David,” as his head moved swiftly from side to side in pursuit of the words, “you are wasting your free afternoon.” Now David was not wasting it. In his pocket was the letter of Tom. In his head was the cheer of Mr. Barlow. Before him and above him swarmed the amazing City.... * * * * *