If he could feel that he was able to produce anything that would command compensation, however small, it would make him proud and happy.

He tried, as he gazed furtively over his paper at the editor's face, to anticipate his decision, but the latter was too much accustomed to reading manuscript to show the impression made upon him.
Fifteen minutes passed, and he looked up.
"Well, Mr.Walton," he said, "your first attempt is a success." Harry's face brightened.
"May I ask if the plot is original ?" "It is so far as I know, sir.

I don't think I ever read anything like it." "Of course there are some faults in the construction, and the dialogue might be amended here and there.

But it is very creditable, and I will use it in the 'Standard' if you desire it." "I do, sir." "And how much are you willing to pay for it ?" Oscar struck in.
The editor hesitated.
"It is not our custom to pay novices just at first," he said.

"If Mr.Walton keeps on writing, he would soon command compensation." Harry would not have dared to press the matter, but Oscar was not so diffident.