My dictation

Choosing an occupation

Nov 5. 1892

Dear Sir,

I am very sorry that the pressure of other occupations has prevented me from sending an earlier reply to your letter.

In my opinion, a man’s first duty is to find a way of supporting himself, thereby relieving other people of the necessity of supporting him. Moreover, the learning to do work of practical value in the world in an exact and careful manner is on itself a very important education, the effects of which make themselves felt in all other pursuits. The habit of doing that which you do not care about when you would much rather be doing something else is invaluable. It would’ve saved me a frightful waste of time if I had ever had it drilled into me in youth.

Success in any scientific career requires unusual equipment of capacity, industry, and energy. If you possess that equipment, you will find leisure enough after your daily commercial work is over to make an opening in the scientific ranks for yourself. If you do not, you’d better stick to commerce. Nothing is less to be desired in the fate of a young man, who is the Scottish proverb says: "In trying to make spoon spoils a horn." and become a mirror hanging on in literature or in science when he might be a useful and valuable member of the society in other occupations.

I think that you father ought to see this letter.

Yours faithfully,

T. H. Huxley