MORNING SERIAL
“THAT was his belief. But for all that, he was a fine and courageous personality, and if I was half the man he was, I would indeed be proud of myself.” Frank’s praises of the writer continued, and Ieuan listened attentively, feeling warmed and gladdened by his companion’s complete indifference to the fact that he was speaking to one many years his junior on a topic which many a man would feel disinclined to discuss with a boy.
Here was no question of superiority. He was being treated as an equal, and his intelligence was acknowledged and respected.
“Ieuan, all that I’ve spoken of to you in these last few minutes is just a preliminary to the more important things I have to say. And they concern you and the foundry. That’s why I asked you to come here today.” “Yes, I know – now,” Ieuan nodded. He looked at Frank with affection. A firm hand patted him on the shoulder.
“Good for you, lad. But don’t be annoyed with me if I sound preachy. My grandfather was a Baptist minister with a reputation for keeping his congregation in their seats for hours on end once he got started on his sermons, so I suppose it’s in the blood. However, this is what I have to tell you, Ieuan. I’ve been through all you’ve experienced during this week, Ieuan, and I daresay I felt the same as you did. I had my ambitions when I was a boy, but they came to nothing. And why?” Frank shrugged. “I was too hotheaded and, unfortunately, too lazy. I could have got out of the foundry if I’d tried hard enough. But the effort was too much – I preferred to let myself slip into the routine of the work, content with being a moulder and getting the rate. Now I’m sorry, but it’s too late. You’ve got to avoid that mistake, Ieuan. You’ve got talent, and in the foundry it will be wasted. You’ve got to get away from the foundry, Ieuan. Not now, this instant. You are young, there are many more years in front of you. Make full use of them. Study, if you want to study. Go to night school if you think that will help. Become a writer, if that is your ambition. But while you’re in the foundry don’t let it break your spirit.”