"I begin to think, Harry, that I should have done well to follow your example. When I was in your position, I might have studied too, but I didn't realize the importance as I do now. I read some useful books, to be sure, but that isn't like studying."
"It isn't too late now."
Ferguson shook his head.
"Now I have a wife and children," he said. "I am away from them during the day, and the evening I like to pass socially with them."
"Perhaps you would like to be divorced," said his wife, smiling.
"Then you would get time for study."
"I doubt if that would make me as happy, Hannah. I am not ready to part with you just yet. But our young friend here is not quite old enough to be married, and there is nothing to prevent his pursuing his studies. So, Harry, go on, and prepare yourself for your editorial duties."
Harry smiled thoughtfully. For the first time he had formed definite plans for his future. Why should not Ferguson's plans be realized?
"If I live long enough," he said to himself, "I will be an editor, and exert some influence in the world."
At ten o'clock he bade good-night to Mr. and Mrs. Ferguson, feeling that he had passed a pleasant and what might prove a profitable evening.