by Nehemiah Hawkins (Author)
It is a question how far a good working knowledge of drawing can be attained without a teacher; it is true that but few have become proficient without such aid, but it is equally true that "self-help" has been the key note to all advancement.
The author received personal instruction in several ways and times, at home, in school, in an architect's office, and under an experienced mechanical engineer, but it was in the early morning hours of a bright summer time-lang syne-that he made his first serious attempt to master the art of mechanical drawing. It was a struggle and a battle to hold himself down to "the board" to the finish, but it was a victory-one, won over slothfulness and impatience, and of such a nature as to warrant the use of the term "self-help" to the encouragement of others. In conclusion two sentiments may be added; if a good working
knowledge of drawing is "worth the while" then, 1, the student should be thoroughly in earnest in acquiring it; 2, he should be willing to take sufficient time and give much hard study to gain the skill necessary for success. This persistence is not irksome. It carries its own reward, and the results are definite and sure.