the number of persons or families that under the most favorable state of
things can be your patrons. All you cannot expect. Kindred, religion,
politics, friendships, and secret fraternities, will hold a portion of
the community to the old traders. The sharpest rivalry will meet you.
Also, you must consider what incursions are likely to be made by
out-of-town dealers, and what prospect there is of others setting up
business in the place. But you should have an ideal trade toward which
you steadily work. Declare daily to yourself, “my gross earnings shall
be $--per day,” or “---- (so many) persons shall be my patrons.” When
you fall below the mark, bestir yourself in many ways.