A Memorable Lesson 



run of it. But the laboratory is a sanctum 

 reserved for the use of the sixth form. No 

 one sets foot in it except the professor and his 

 pupils preparing for their degree. For me, 

 the outsider, to enter that tabernacle with 

 my band of young imps would be most un- 

 seemly; the rightful occupant would never 

 think of allowing it. I feel it myself: ele- 

 mentary teaching dare not aspire to such 

 familiarity with the higher culture. Very 

 well, we will not go there, so long as they will 

 lend me the things. 



I confide my plan to the principal, the su- 

 preme dispenser of those riches. He is a 

 classics man, knows hardly anything of sci- 

 ence, at that time held in no great esteem, and 

 he does not quite understand the object of 

 my request. I humbly insist and exert my 

 powers of persuasion. I discreetly emphasize 

 the real point of the matter. My group of 

 pupils is a numerous one. It takes more 

 meals at the school-house — the real concern 

 of a principal — than any other section of the 

 college. This group must be encouraged, 

 lured on, increased if possible. The prospect 

 of disposing of a few more platefuls of soup 

 wins the battle for me ; my request is granted. 

 Poor science ! All that diplomacy to gain 



441 



