Page 76 - YB1899
P. 76
"The end of the present century will not be accompanied by the disappear- ance of that detested class of men known as book agents. They will be as plenti- ful in the next century as in this, only the twentieth century book agents to keep up to the times will be more energetic and persevering. The majority of them, of course, will, as now, receive very light rewards for their work. But a few will make a success of the profession, and among this number will be J. Walton 0. Melvin. His perseverance, his cunning, his ability to argue, his genial counte- nance, and his forcible expressions will materially assist him in disposing of many volumes of his book. Then, again, his discriminating powers will aid him, for not only will he be enabled to pick out his man, but also his book. He will choose a work which bears upon those questions which are uppermost in the minds of the people. The one book that he will be most successful in selling will be J. W. Daratin's "Scientific Discussion on the Plausibility of the Proposed Trans-Pacific Aerial Liquid Air Railroad." If Mr. Melvin argues as well as a book agent as he did when at school, I have no doubt but that he will be most successful. "While visiting the Paris Exposition in 1900, Horace Greeley Reese will decide to make music his profession, and he will remain in Europe to study it. Before many years shall have passed, he will show signs of a wonderful musical talent. After several years' study under the guidance of the greatest German mas- ters he win return home. Shortly after his return, he will be called to fill the vacancy caused by the resignation of the organist of Calvary Episcopal Church of New York. Every Sunday throngs will be inspired by his wonclerfu.1 music and his gentle touch will produce strains capable of moving the hardest hearts. When he shall have become too old to fulfill his duties he will want nothing, as his for- tune will have been made." I Ilave wondered what the future had in store for Horace, and I am glad that my curiosity has been satisfied. I never dreamed that he would become a great musician. "While some of the members of this class will change as they grow older, yet others will retain their school-boy characteristics. The likes and dislikes of their College da.ys will, be the likes and dislikes of their whole life. Try as they may, some of them will never be able to throw aside their aversion for certain things. Just such a man will Vernon N. Ridgely be. He will hold in aversion the entire female sex. When a boy he will dislike girls, and as he grows older, his dislike G8
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