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Show Fascination of Public Life Lies in Wholesome Opportunities It Offers By WILLIAM H. TAFT Former President of the United States Would I advise a young man to seek public office? That depends upon what kind of a man he is, his bent of mind and what his taste is. Jly first public office was a splendid place for me, as it was a rough-and-tumble experience in the law at the time of life when 1 was ready for it. 1 was taught the necessity of facts and how to get them. I learned to search for truth and to value evidence. The training I then received has been of the highest importance to me ever since. Truth, that is what the world needs all the time. Besides, I was on my feet nearly every day, making speeches to the ourt and being drilled in readiness, alertness and thoroughness. As I look back on it now, I know my experience of those days was the best 1 could have had at the time. Criminal law is not difficult to learn, and 1 enjoyed its practice, although I never did other than to prosecute criminals. One who has engaged in business must feel the satisfaction of achievement achieve-ment and the pleasure of independence for himself and his household. But . all occupations have their ups and downs. The fascinations of public life nre to be found in the power it gives and the wholesome opportunities it offers. If one has been fortunate and can look back on things well done, it compensates for the loss of many others. It is a joy to do things, to be useful and helpful. |