I do not deny that I preferred the first.

Once upon a time to be a fellow in a college, or a professor, or the like, was my utmost aim and I would have half killed myself to attain it.

Now, I think differently." He paused, but did not seem to require an answer, and it did not come.
"I want, not to be rich but to get a decent competence, and to get it as soon as I can.

I want not to ruin my health with incessant study.
I have already injured it a good deal." "Have you been ill?
You never said so." "Oh no, it was hardly worth while.

And I knew an active life would soon set me right again.