Making One's Way in the World
It is a useful thing for a man to learn early that even the most exclusive set in the world bows to great achievement. Some years ago Henry M. Stanley made a speech before the Press club of New York City, in which he said:— Gentlemen: I thank you for your reception. You have always been kind to me. When I first went to Africa, you gave me words of encouragement. At that time I met a noble English lord who was a member of the Royal Geographical Society. I was introduced to him as the man who was going to hunt for Dr. Livingstone. He stared at me condescendingly. When I returned from Africa, having found Dr. Livingstone, you were kind enough to say very pleasant things about me, and I met my English friend again, and he relaxed and gave me one finger. Again I went to Africa and you gave me words of encouragement, and my English friend gave me two fingers. I have just returned, gentlemen, and you have been more kind than ever. Once more I met the noble Englishman, and this time he actually gave me his whole hand. Gentlemen, between that first patronizing bow and that handshake lies practically the history of my whole life.