are many other crows," he went on, "to pick with head office,
the majority of which will have to be plucked in committee meetings of
the A.B.C.'s." (Applause.) "We are here to get the organization of
that association under way, rather than to entertain our friends. So
with your permission I will conclude my introduction and begin business
by asking you to form a _pro tem._ organization. Who will you have for
temporary chairman?"

Before Evan had sat down several bankmen were on their feet nominating
him for chairman. Henty tried to elicit some other nomination but
failed: they shouted and whistled for Nelson. He thanked them and took
the chair. A. P. was chosen secretary, a committee to draft
resolutions and by-laws was selected, and a full temporary organization
effected.

To relieve the monotony of business the orchestra was asked for an
overture, and while it was playing Evan was called behind the scenes.
A gentleman, whom he took for a bank official, was waiting to speak to
him.

"My name is Jacob Doro," said the gentleman; "I am a friend of your
movement. Let me congratulate you on this splendid success. I want to
make a suggestion, Mr. Nelson, and hope you will not misunderstand me.
Will you accept an endowment for the establishment of a sort of club
here in Toronto, where bankclerks can congregate, have a library, a
gymnasium, and recreation of every kind? I am president of a loan
company, and if you will not accept a donation, you will at least
accept a loan on a long note."

Evan was, of course, surprised.

"That is a good scheme of yours, Mr. Doro," he said, "but why should
you want to throw away money on us bank-fellows?"

"It won't be thrown away, Mr. Nelson," replied the stranger; "I was not
always rich, but now I am, and it would give me great pleasure to endow
this bankclerks' association. In the days when I was struggling I had
a son enter the banking business, and they killed him with work. Now
perhaps you understand?"

No one could have doubted the sincerity of a man who spoke with the
feeling Doro evinced. Evan held out his hand.

"We will be needing friends," he said; "may I use your name, Mr. Doro?"

Mr. Doro thought a moment before replying.

"I'm not afraid of the banks," he said, finally; "and, besides, by
telling my name and why I give the money, you will attract other
contributions. I know you will. Tell the boys I donate $25,000, and
that I know others who have sev