"No."
"If you are going to take up journalism they are the initial and principal requirements. Beyond a little tact and plenty of cheek you require nothing else. A conscience and a love of truth are great drawbacks. Are you ready?"
He handed me a pencil and notebook.
"Now begin. The opening sentence must be crisp and startling; and never end your sentences with prepositions."
"But I know nothing about the fire," I expostulated.
"Oh! I've forgotten." He picked up the paper which he had absent-mindedly kicked under the table. "Now you are all right. Get your facts from this rag, but write the story in your own way. You'll find this good training if ever you've got to weave out lies of your own. Meanwhile I've three or four novels to review."
As he spoke he opened a parcel which he had brought along with him, and took out several books which he regarded critically for a moment.
"Are they worth reading?" I asked.
"I do not know."
"You do not know and you're going to review them!"