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THE FOUR PHILANTHROPISTS
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the path for which we are really fit. As our failures prove that we have no real talent for practical philanthropy, so these dividends prove that we have real talent for business. I suggest, then, that the G. P. R. C. suffers a granite change, that we change it into the Quorley Granite Company. By working at that we can establish the Children's Hospital on a permanent basis, and restore an orphan's fortunes."

"This is talking," said Chelubai, with an extremely brainy air. "I've always been afraid that by some accident or other I might acquire bad karma from one of the operations of the G. P. R. C. But in an ordinary kind of company I shouldn't have any such fear. I should be much easier in mind."

"But—but—this is going in trade!" said Bottiger, with deep disgust.

"Really, that does come well from you, Bottiger. "What were your ancestors but tradesmen? Their trade was murder for money or cattle," I said coldly.

"That was very different!" said Bottiger hotly. "It was the fashion in those days!"

"And now company-promoting is the fashion," I said sternly.

"It's no good bickering," said Chelubai. "What is your scheme for becoming the Quorley Granite Company?"