I am afraid that Smith, good underwriter as he is, needs--as you
say--a little more seasoning before being given so responsible a
position."

"What's the alternative?" inquired Mr. Griswold, from the other end of
the table.

"The alternative," answered Mr. Wintermuth, "is one which I like little
better. It is to go outside and hire an underwriter from somewhere
else."

"Do you know a good man--one we could get?"

"There are always plenty available if you look in the right place--and
back up your invitation with a sufficient monetary inducement," said
the President, a trifle caustically. "Little as I myself fancy the
idea, it seems to me that it is what we shall have to do. Unless," he
added, "you gentlemen should decide to risk giving Smith a chance."

"I'm in favor of going outside," Mr. Whitehill announced. "I've met
Smith, and he's a nice clean-cut young fellow, but it would be an
injustice to put him in such a place and expect him to make good. He's
too much of a kid for such a job with a company like the Guardian."

There was a murmur, whether of approval or of passive acquiescence
could not be told.

"Thirty-five is the minimum age for the President of the United
States," suggested Mr. Wintermuth, detachedly.

"Well, thirty-five is quite young enough," retorted Mr. Whitehill.
"Give the boy a few years' time. I say, hire an underwriter outside."

The President turned to face the table.

"I take it, then, that it is the wish of the Board that the company's
rule regarding office promotions be waived in this instance. But we
must remember--as I have always maintained--that it has a discouraging
effect on loyalty and ambition, to import material to fill important
places. However, it is for you gentlemen to decide."

"Have you thought of anyone for the position?" inquired one.

"Not seriously," responded the President. "I have scarcely had time.
There are of course plenty of men we might get, but I have really not
felt like considering the question of their relative desirability
before submitting the matter to you."

"I heard a speech last week," said Mr. Griswold, "by some man who
wanted to reduce the fire waste of the whole country. It was delivered
before the Chamber of Commerce in Plainfield, New Jersey, where I
live--I occasionally attend their meetings. He's got something to do
with a Chicago company. I think his name is Lyon. He impressed me as
being a clever talker. Do you know any