So far as the character of the service rendered in these different positions is concerned, I think the length and regularity of the employment will speak for him.
Speaking to Mr. Monroe regarding the position he now holds, he said: "I taught myself stenography as a boy of twenty, and after having mastered it tried to maintain such proficiency in it as to be ready at any time to accept a position in which a knowledge of stenography would be a prerequisite. Have never thought that 'luck' had anything to do with the opportunities I have had, and rather think they are due to hard work in making myself competent, and then, when a chance was offered, to try and be a little more than equal to the demands made on me."
CHAS. J. BECKER.
While traveling in New England a few years ago, I visited New Bedford, Mass., where I met Mr. Chas. J. Becker. This young man executes some of the finest penmanship I ever saw in my life. He is employed in one of the largest and best business colleges in New England. He has held his present position for five years.
C. J. BECKER.
Mr. Becker was born in Fitchburg, Mass., in 1858, commenced his life-work in Chas. B. Dennis's Insurance Office at nine years of age; at twelve he wrote a good business hand; at fourteen wrote all the policies and daily reports for that firm—at sixteen his writing showed up to Mr. Dennis so well, that he sent him to Boston to attend Kendall's Normal Writing Institution where he took a three months' course.