The Argosy — page 319: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

300 In the Past. “Then the room overhead will suit you admirably. It is very small, and very elevated ; but it is neat and light, and has a pleasant outlook—just the very roost for an embryo author. By the way, if your genius leans in that direction, I may be of use to you, in the way of finding a market for your work. And in return I will ask a favour of you. It is that you will use this sitting-room with me.” ‘‘ But,” interrupted Frank, colouring, “ I . “It is a selfish request,” pursued Mr. Carson, seriously. “I find the hours I spend at home very lonely sometimes. A chum to exchange thoughts and ideas with would brighten them immensely. If you grant me this favour, I in return, will teach you the first principles of bachelor economy. ‘There ; let us consider that point as settled. Now you had better be presented to that garrulous autocrat, the landlady.” The afternoon was spent in carrying out these ‘arrangements—a servant being sent to the club for Frank’s portmanteau—and the evening, after dinner, in discussing the young man’s prospects and reading the small literary efforts he had brought with him from home. These latter, like the first-fruits of many authors, were better in expression than in substance, and Mr. Carson held that to be a promising sign. Frank’s work was unaffected and bright, pointed and direct. Whether expressing humour or sentiment, the manner was equally happy, although, truth to tell, the matter was often stale and unprofitable. Mr. Carson, who, though a kindly, was an honest critic, pointed this out, but justly ascribed it to youth and inex- perience. “Vou will do,” he said, “when you have learned a little more of life. If you have patience and perseverance, I firmly believe that, when you know as much of the world as I do, you will make your mark as an author.” Frank set to his work with perseverance and determination. He wrote for several hours daily, and, although he experienced the usual hopes, fears and disappointments of the young author, he did not permit them to seriously affect his spirits or his industry. His manuscripts came back, and he grew somewhat nervous of the postman’s knock; but the work was immediately sent off again elsewhere, and more was written. At last there came to him his first success ; and he experienced in their proper order that trio of blissful circumstances and sensations which no author, no matter to what eminence be may subsequently rise, can ever entirely forget. In his first good fortune, as in his trouble, he had only two sympa- thetic friends ; but as their sincerity was unimpeachable, they were a host in themselves. ‘They were Mr. Carson and his mother. Within a few days of leaving home he had redeemed the promise he had made his mother—that he would contrive to see her soon. One COMIC OOOKS. GO