The one noteworthy thing about these productions, and about others of equally mistaken direction, was the sincerity of their workmanship.

Had Yule been content to manufacture a novel or a play with due disregard for literary honour, he might perchance have made a mercantile success; but the poor fellow had not pliancy enough for this.

He took his efforts au grand serieux; thought he was producing works of art; pursued his ambition in a spirit of fierce conscientiousness.

In spite of all, he remained only a journeyman.

The kind of work he did best was poorly paid, and could bring no fame.