The Reporter at Work. 79 always pleasant, they give the reporter the opportunity — which no other profession affords — of obtaining a wide knowledge of men and of institutions. He goes every- where, sees everything, and no one should be so well qualified to form a judgment. May the knowledge which journalists acquire prove a better qualification than hitherto for official life, which — if not more responsible— carries greater dignity and ensures more adequate emolument 1 As professional men, journalists have a claim to considera- tion in the distribution of the patronage of the Crown, and a right also to become candidates for various public positions. Let it not still be said that America treats her journalists and men of letters better than the old country !