“Upon thy back hangs ragged misery. The world is not thy friend, nor the world’s law. The world affords no law to make thee rich; Then be not poor, but break it, and take this, etc.” But, unlike Romeo, I advise obedience and respect for the laws you have. Make the best of them until such time may arrive when we can demand equitable treatment; when you will live under laws formulated by yourselves; when your laws protect, and do not discriminate or oppress; when the dignity of pharmacy is akin, at least, to other professions. It may be at a distance, but the longest road oft-times has many short cuts, so it is with you now to take the initiatory step, for, as the saying goes, “Something attempted, something done,” any movement toward a realization of our ideals should be eagerly sought and accepted. You have the blood and sinews of the drug trade of the town among you. As an association, don’t follow the paths of your predecessors. Establish an individuality by doing things differently from others. Let every man pledge his moral, and, if necessary, his financial support, and stick to it. Let us prepare a new path and tempt Opportunity, and when that great, but elusive and fickle dame, should appear, make her welcome so sincere and royal that the good lady would not deign to leave. Unite in your efforts; combine in your legislative matters, combine on educational features; combine on social relations; combine on grievances; combine with your ways and means committee. We have a common cause to work for. Every man is as vitally interested as the other, and has as much at stake, HIS ALL. And I am sure by unity of action on matters well discussed in meetings, much of material advantage can be accomplished, and before the sun sets on many another year many trade defect will be on a fair way to be remedied, and what now appear to be breakers ahead will subside, calmed by the oil of Prosperity, to make easy sailing for the Good Old Ship Contentment. [Illustration: A MODERN FOUNTAIN--SIMPLE AND INVITING. IN THE STORE OF DAVIS DRUG COMPANY, FORT SMITH, ARK.] Around the Drug Stores The Palace Drug Store, Marfa, Texas, recently purchased by Cecil Booth, has been enlarged and remodeled. * * * * * The Gwyn Drug Store, Mt. Airy, N. C., is now completed and presents an unusually handsome appearance. Mr. John Marrion, druggist of considerable experience, has purchased an interest in the drug company, and with Mr. Joe Gwyn will give Mt. Airy an up-to-date store in every particular. Mr. Marrion will have charge of the prescription department. _The Leader_ says that Mr. Gwyn and Mr. Marrion make a team that is hard to beat. * * * * * Francis & Mackey, Luling, Texas, have made numerous improvements in their drug store. * * * * *