The excellence of a painter's work does not count unless he can find at least a small group of patrons who will admire and buy it.

The most competent architect can do nothing for himself or for other people unless he attracts clients who will build his paper houses.

The playwright needs even a larger following.

If his plays are to be produced, he must manage to amuse and to interest thousands of people.

And the politician most of all depends upon a numerous and faithful body of admirers.