re. I paid twenty-five thousand for the
business. It was too much, but when an idea takes me it takes me. I
required a fine-sounding name, and I chose Hugo. It was an inspiration.'

'Then Hugo is not your--'

'It is not. My real name is Owen. But think of "Owen" on a flag, and
then think of "Hugo" on a flag.'

'Exactly.'

'I began. And because I had everything to learn I lost money at first. I
took lessons in my own shop, and the course cost me a hundred a week for
some months. But in two years I had proved that my theory of myself was
correct. In ten I had made nearly a quarter of a million. Everyone knows
the history of my growth.'

Polycarp nodded.

'In the eleventh year I determined to emerge from the chrysalis. I
dreamed a dream of my second incarnation as universal tradesman. And the
fabric of my dream, Mr. Polycarp, you behold around you.' He waved the
cigar. 'It is the most colossal thing of its kind ever known.'

Polycarp nodded again.

'Some people regard it as extravagant. It is. It is meant to be. Hugo's
store is only my fun, my device for amusing myself. We have glorious
times here, I and my ten managers--my Council of Ten. They know me; I
know them. They are well paid; they are artists. A trade spirit must, of
course, actuate a trade concern; but above that, controlling that, is
another spirit--the spirit which has made this undoubtedly the greatest
shop in the world. I cannot describe it, but it exists. All my managers,
and even many of the rank and file, feel it.'

'Very interesting,' said the lawyer.

'Mr. Polycarp,' Hugo announced solemnly, 'the direction of this
establishment is my life. In the midst of this lovely and interesting
organism I enjoy every hour of the day. What else can I want?'

Polycarp raised his eyebrows.

'Do you suppose it would add to my fun to have a million in the bank--I,
with an income of two thousand a week? Do you suppose I should find it
diverting to be at the beck and call of a board of directors--I, the
supreme fount of authority? Do you suppose it would be my delight to
consider eternally the interests of a pack of shareholders--I, who
consider nothing but my fancy? And, finally, do you suppose it would
amuse me, Hugo, to have "limited" put after my name? Me, limited!'

'Then,' said the lawyer slowly, 'I am to understand you are not
willing--'

'My friend,' Hugo replied, dropping into his chair, 'I would sooner see
the whole blessed place fall like the