“I want to put a proposition before you,” said the supervisor. “I have turned my thought considerably to the train dispatching on this division. It might be greatly improved.”
At that Ralph straightened up and his lips became a grim line.
“I can refer you to Mr. Glidden at main headquarters,” he said bluntly. “He will undoubtedly be glad to take up any matter of the kind with you. I have no jurisdiction.”
“Yes, yes! I understand all that,” said the supervisor, with a wave of his hand. “But you know I have practically a free hand here——”
“I have not been so informed. I still take all my orders from Mr. Glidden,” and Ralph spoke doggedly.
“Listen, young man! You are in no position to war with me. In my opinion you are quite too young for your responsible position, anyway.”
“That can be taken up with the general manager if you choose,” said Ralph, with a sigh, turning away. “He gave me the job.”
“Wait!” exclaimed Hopkins coldly. “You are a very smart young man; but you do not know everything—not even about your job.”
“I admit the truth of your last statement, anyway,” said Ralph, grinning slightly. “In my line there is always something to learn.”
“Listen to me, then. I can tell you something.”