An important, although indirect, result of the great commercial and industrial combinations is to enhance the value of independent lines of business. The census statistics recently printed in the Watchman show that sixty-six per cent of all the young men in the country are in the employment of others. This, in connection with the admitted fact that it is becoming more difficult every year to obtain employment, makes clear the significance and happiness of the man who has a business of his own. We do not seek to depreciate the worthiness of work for others. If faithfully done, it is deserving of honor and reward. But the conditions of modern life are certainly emphasizing the position of the man who is his own master. The recent consolidation of national banks in Boston threw out of employment about two hundred and fifty clerks, many of whom had worked faithfully for years, and knew no other business. Without fault of their own, they found themselves turned adrift. Some soon obtained suitable employment, some were forced to become street-car conductors, and some, we are informed, have not yet found work. Other illustrations might be given, but this is sufficient to show the unique advantage of the man who controls his own work. The young man whose father has a good farm or a business of his own, may better himself by leaving home and entering the employment of others, but in the majority of cases he will not. The man who has a good farm well stocked, is far in advance of the majority of his fellows. Any one who has any business which he can control, is an important factor in commercial life, and in the development of trade is certain to become more so. He must be reckoned with. While great combinations may sometimes make his way hard, they can seldom throw him out entirely, especially if he is a producer. As such he is one of the foundation stones, even though small. He bears a part in the support of the whole structure of society.