Cinder Path Tales

138 CINDER-PATH TALES lifted the scales at one hundred and fifty- eight, andthen I put my tape on him and began my measurements. As I marked down one after another my admiration grew, and when I had finished and he had dressed and left me, I could not deny myself the pleasure ofmaking outhis chart, even before I finished the mail. A wonderful chart it was, too. The average percentage was not as high as that of one or two fellows who had the advantagesof intelligent handling by good men at first-class preparatory schools, but when it came to symmetrical develop­ ment, there was not one in the same class with him. The line was almost straight, a slight advantage only showing inmeasure­ ments belowthe waist. After the chart was finished I put it in a conspicuous place on the mantel, wentback to my letters, and finally wrote Mrs, Fairfax as follows: " I shall be pleased to give your son the attention you ask. Although it is impossible to guarantee any degree of success, he has the advantage of an unusually good development, and may make something of himself if he is willing towork faithfully and follow orders. It rests more with him than myself. There willbe no extra charge." It mayseem rather acurt letter, butcom­ pared with what I usually write in answer to