By Thomas's side works another boy, whom we will call James,--a
lad of only ordinary capacity, very likely. If Thomas and all the
other boys did their best, there would be but small chance for
James ever to become eminent. But he has something better than
talent: he brings good will to his work. Whatever he learns, he
learns so well that it becomes a part of himself.
His employers find that they can depend upon him. Customers soon
learn to like and trust him. By diligence, self-culture, good
habits, cheerful and kindly conduct, he is laying the foundation
of a generous manhood and a genuine success.
In short, boys, by slighting your tasks you hurt yourself more
than you wrong your employer. By honest service you benefit
yourself more than you help him. If you were aiming at mere
worldly advancement only, I should still say that good will was
the very best investment you could make in business.
By cheating a customer, you gain only a temporary and unreal
advantage. By serving him with right good will,--doing by him as
you would be done by,--you not only secure his confidence, but
also his good will in return.
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