Moreover, this is a quality which, where it exists, cannot be overcome; it affects day-labourers as well as gentlemen at large.

It is bred in the bone.
Probably the second failure-breeding fault, lack of perseverance, has its roots in the first, at any rate in my case.

At least on leaving college with some reputation, I was called to the Bar where, owing to certain solicitor and other connections, I had a good opening.

Also, owing to the excellence of my memory and powers of work, I began very well, making money even during my first year.

Then, as it happened, a certain case came my way and, my leader falling ill suddenly after it was opened, was left in my hands.