With “One Telent”

New Zealand Graphic, Volume XXIX, Issue VIII, 23 August 1902, Page 508

With “One Telent”

Unlike the example cited in Holy Writ, there are some people who contrive to make more out of the “one talent” in the way of position, looks or fortune that has been vouchsafed to them than those who have the “ten talents.” To make what is called the best out of one’s self or one’s circumstances is a most enviable quality. In most cases such ability is inborn, and develops itself naturally, but it can also be cultivated, if an individual possesses certain characteristics. Self-

confidence is the greatest essential, but this must be tempered by a keen perception, or it will become boastful, a quality that is fatal to success; or obviously pushing, which is a predisposition that generally defeats its own end. A certain amount of the latter, however, is in a way necessary, as the world does not go out of its path to discover rara avae, and is besides somewhat shortsighted, so that people must be brought under its nose, as it were, either through theii’ own energy or the praise of others, to discover their merits. An admixture of tact, therefore, is a most necessary accompaniment; while last, but not least, ambition and good management should also be added as prime factors. With qualities such as these, an income of a few thousands per annum may keep up as creditable an establishment as one double the amount. A woman who happens to find the social door ajar can boldly enter in. Good looks will score as much as beauty, and no care or expense bestowed upon the house, beautiful clothes, entertainments, etc., will be lost. The woman who ean do these things—and there are many such—would prove a veritable helpmeet to the ambitious man, who in this country especially is often greatly handicapped matrimonially, as fitness and ability are about the last things a man considers in choosing a wife.