H4 CONTEMPORARY SCIENCE 



fit. To this rule I have known only one splendid excep- 

 tion. 



For the most part among us the great prizes go to the 

 man who works up through clerical rather than through 

 expert lines. We must find some way to change this. 

 The path of science must lead to the top, and at the top 

 must still be science. To achieve this ideal, the scientist 

 must show generosity toward colleagues and subordinates, 

 an enthusiastic recognition of their merit and an abne- 

 gation of self-aggrandizement, no less than skill in plan 

 and energy in execution. It is essential also that he 

 should develop methods for conserving time and strength 

 by assigning clerical work to clerks instead of becoming a 

 clerk himself, in order that he may keep mind and desk 

 clear for the really important things. 



The Chemical Warfare Service was a success largely 

 because the chief of the Research Division followed these 

 principles as the spontaneous promptings of science and 

 patriotism. 9 Medical research in aviation was produc- 

 tive just so long as it pursued a similar course. 



He who charts this course, so that others may follow it 

 through the pathless seas of the future, will make a great 

 contribution to science, education, government, and in- 

 deed to nearly every phase of trained activity in America. 



9 Cf. G. A. Burrell, Journal of Industrial and Engineering 

 Chemistry, 1918, Vol. II., p. 93. 



