Earwaker was well acquainted with journalistic life in the provinces.

He sprang from a humble family living at Kingsmill, had studied at Whitelaw College, and was now but nine-and-twenty: the style of his 'leaders' seemed to mark him for a wider sphere of work.

It was decided to invite him to London, and the young man readily accepted Mr.Runcorn's proposals.

A few months later he exchanged temporary lodgings for chambers in Staple Inn, where he surrounded himself with plain furniture and many books.
In personal appearance he had changed a good deal since that prize-day at Whitelaw when his success as versifier and essayist foretold a literary career.

His figure was no longer ungainly; the big head seemed to fit better upon the narrow shoulders.