breeding. In many cities I have personally studied telephone operators, standing outside the exchanges as they came to work and departed. Their bearing, dress, conversation, all go to prove that an excellent standard of student-workers is demanded, and that the discipline of the switchboard, as well as the fine welfare work carried on in exchange buildings, has resulted in attracting and creating a singularly nice class of operators.
The girl in a small town who desires a position at the switchboard is less independent in making her application than is the city girl. Here acquaintance counts most heavily, and personal influence must be brought to bear on the superintendent or manager of an exchange which requires but half a dozen operators. Even with influence, however, a girl must possess the same qualifications her city cousin claims—a distinct speaking-voice, keen hearing and good eyesight. As the telephone service in a small place is generally more leisurely than in a big city, her temper will not be so sorely tried at the beginning of her career. As no school is provided for her training, she must start with practical work. Substituting for regular operators will form a large part of her training, and eight dollars per week is the maximum salary in a small exchange. In a New England town of three thousand inhabitants,
