some of which the time is not yet due, and a rich birthright of
sagacity, insight and leadership, he possessed also a practical
experience of American book markets and the tastes of the people,
trained financial ability, practiced judgment, literary taste, and
literary conscience; and last, but not least, he had traversed and
mapped out the special field he proposed to occupy,--a field from which
he has never been diverted.

"The foundations were solid. On these points Mr. Lothrop has had
but one mind from the first: 'Never to publish a work purely
sensational, no matter what chances of money it has in it;' 'to
publish books that will make true, steadfast growth in right
living.' Not alone right thinking, but right living. These were his
two determinations, rigidly adhered to, notwithstanding constant
advice, appeals, and temptations. His thoughts had naturally turned
to the young people, knowing from his own self-made fortunes, how
young men and women need help, encouragement and stimulus. He had
determined to throw all his time, strength and money into making
good books for the young people, who, with keen imaginations and
active minds, were searching in all directions for mental food.
'The best way to fight the evil in the world,' reasoned Mr.
Lothrop, 'is to crowd it out with the good.' And therefore he bent
the energies of his mind to maturing plans toward this object,--the
putting good, helpful literature into their hands.

His first care was to determine the channels through which he could
address the largest audiences. The Sunday School library was one.
In it he hoped to turn a strong current of pure, healthful
literature for those young people who, dieting on the existing
library books, were rendered miserable on closing their covers,