"The fact is," went on Babcock, with a sigh, "I am a failure, and have just begun to realize it."
"If you wouldn't mind telling me about it," said Scott, gently, "I can at least sympathize with you."
"Sympathy will be welcome. It is long since I have had any."
He paused, and presently continued:
"You must know that I am an inventor. I need say no more to satisfy you that I am a visionary and unpractical man."
"I don't know about that. There have been many successful inventors."
"And I might be one but for one unfortunate circumstance."
"What is that, sir?"
"I have used up all my money, and though the invention is perfected, I am unable to reap the benefit of it."
"Would you mind telling me the nature of your invention?"