that His Majesty had been smitten by Apollo. What was the astonishment
of the world at hearing the reeds that grew hard by whispering among
themselves, whenever the wind blew them confidentially together, "King
Midas hath asses' ears!"
Be in mortal fear of the first error in this regard. When a boy has made
a record for bad, it seems to hang to him. The fact that he has told
something which he ought to have kept to himself is quoted against him
until it becomes a positive habit to speak about it every time his name
is mentioned.
"Jimmie, where's your outside man? I heard he was in town. His cousin
asked me to inquire."
"Oh! no! he's not in town. He went out on the road last night. He will
be in Eagertown to-morrow, Brightside Wednesday, and Upearly Saturday."
That is exactly what was wanted out of you, and you must excuse your
questioner if he hurries on, so as not to be seen pumping you any longer
than is necessary.
Now this style of gaining information is low and contemptible, but of
two boys who talked, one of whom said a good deal that did not amount to
much, learning a good deal that did, and the other letting out a great
deal and learning nothing, there can be little doubt of the business
success of the first as compared to that of the second.
Put a copper-toe on your tongue. Remember that Gen. Grant made a great
part of his fame by letting other folks do his talking.