II
The King was considering the request of his revered uncle, the Duke of Nostrum, to preside over the Commission on slums, when Max came, asking also to be made useful.
"What, you too?" cried his Majesty; "isn't one of us enough?"
"Quite," said Max. "I want to be that one."
"What are your qualifications?"
"Willingness," said Max, "a brain capable of taking fire at facts, a great position, and an open and rebellious mind. I am quoting from authority; I was given my certificate yesterday."
To his Majesty this was merely the voice of Max at his flightiest. "Well," he said, "your Uncle Nostrum happens to have come first."
"Do you always grant first applications?"
"He has had much more experience."
"Of slums?" inquired Max.