The young man must think for himself.

He must choose his future, and work out his way therein alone and unsupported.

The necessity of this choice, and the grave responsibility assumed in choosing, confronted and oppressed Edward Franklin as they did many another young man, whose life employment had not been naturally determined by family or business associations.

He stood looking out over the way of life.

There came to his soul that indefinite melancholy known by the young man not yet acquainted with the mysteries of life.