"I believe him to be perfectly honorable, in the general acceptation of the term. No doubt he will look to his own interests. He would be a fool if he did not."
"Any man is. But, you know, there are some persons who are troubled with very tender consciences, and who are exceedingly nice in stepping along, lest they tread upon somebody's toes. Of course they make but slow progress; if, indeed, two steps backwards are not taken to every one forwards."
"Dunbar, if I understand his character aright, is not troubled with any such tenderness of conscience. He will let people take care of their own toes."
"So I should think, from what little I have seen of him. Would you not do well to associate him with you in your larger practice? You have had his assistance so long, that I should think you could hardly do without him."
"Just what I have been thinking about. It would give him a chance, and really take nothing from me; for I have more practice than I can attend to properly. And, besides I feel a pride in the young man, and want to see him distinguish himself. His talents must not be hidden under a bushel."
In a day or two, the lawyer who had been his preceptor, said to Lawrence—
"Have you found an office to suit you?"
"Not yet," was replied. "I have seen two or three, but do not like the locations."
"You are still determined to commence your profession in this city?"
"Oh, yes. I have no ambition to be a mere country lawyer. I feel that I have talents, and I wish to give them an appropriate sphere."