ROSE FROM THE RANKS

Pacific Press Publishing Company · Oakland, California · Feb 3, 1898

ROSE FROM THE RANKS.

MR. CHAUNCEY M. DEPEW lately visited the Mechanical Department of Cornell University. He found at the head of it Professor Morris. The latter claimed him as an old acquaintance.

“How’s that?” said Mr. Depew.

“I used to work for the New York Central Railroad,” was the professor’s answer.

“Indeed! In what department?”

“O, just in the ranks!”

“How did you get on there?” asked Depew.

“I was first a fireman on an engine. That was a tough job, but it led up to the position of engineer. I made up my mind to get an education. I studied at night and fitted myself for Union College, running all the time with my locomotive. I procured books and attended as far as possible the lectures and recitations. I kept up with my class, and on the day of graduation I left my locomotive, washed up, put on the gown and cap, delivered my thesis, and received my diploma, put the gown and cap in the closet, put on my working shirt, got on my engine, and made my usual run that day.”

“Then,” said Depew, “I knew how he became Professor Morris.”

That spirit will cause a man to rise in any calling. It is ambition, but it is ambition wisely directed, seeking to make one’s self fitted for higher work. When this is accomplished, the opportunity for higher work is sure to come.—Scientific American.