CHAPTER XXI 



THE COMING PROFESSION FOR BOYS 



IN order that as little as possible may seem to be taken 

 for granted or as mere expressions of the opinions of the 

 author, we cite the views of specialists as to the possibilities 

 of this field, so new in this country, of intensive agriculture. 



These will show that the conviction has become general 

 that, as workers, as teachers, and as discoverers, there is no 

 career more inviting or more lucrative or more dignified 

 than that of the skillful foster-father of plants. 



"Children brought up in city tenements tend to become 

 vicious and sickly, but if transported to country homes they 

 may grow up strong and self-respecting men and women. 



"There are hundreds of applicants for every position in 

 the cities, and competition forces the pay down to the lowest 

 level. Living expenses are heavier. The risk to health 

 from sedentary occupations, long hours in ill-ventilated 

 offices, stores, and workshops is serious. 



"There are few inducements to out-door exercise. Even 

 if he lives at home, the boy who is forced to the street or into 

 the factory before he has the strength or education to do good 

 work remains an unskilled worker all his life. 



"Manufacturing is upon a larger and larger scale. The 

 division of labor is greater and greater. Not only does the 

 gulf between capitalist and laborer widen, but with it the 

 gulf between skilled and unskilled labor." ("What Shall 

 Our Boys Do for a Living?" Charles F. Wingate.) 



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