That gift I felt I had, and gradually I perceived that I
would like to be the head of some large and complicated undertaking. I
examined the latest developments of modern existence, and came to the
conclusion that the direction of a thoroughly up-to-date stores would
amuse me as well as anything. So I bought this concern--a flourishing
little drapery and furnishing business it was then. I had exactly fifty
thousand pounds--not a cent more. 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.
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