"We're paying standard wages," Phil observed. "If it were left to you, Handy, would you give them the raise?"
"I don't know but I would," the logging boss brightened. "Cheapest. One or two of the big Island camps have tilted wages. This crew can sure get out timber. Breakin' in new men costs money."
"Just what have you told them?" Phil inquired. "If you haven't stirred them up, I may be able to talk them out of it."
Handy grinned.
"I was darn careful not to stir 'em up. I know loggers. I'm a logger myself. I didn't say much of anything. When I seen they was set, I just said, 'Well we'll put it up to headquarters. I hire and fire, but the owners sign the pay checks'."
"All right. Send those two in as you go out," Phil said finally. "I'll see you down on the float after I get through."
Andy Hall and his companion entered.
"Tell me what you want," Phil said briefly, "and why you consider yourselves entitled to it."
"We ask for fifty cents a day raise for every outside worker on the job, from whistle-punks to hook-tenders," Wright voiced their demands. "We ask for you to put in at least half a dozen baths, tubs, or showers; showers would suit us best and they're easily installed. That's all."
"Why go on strike at snap notice?" Phil complained. "Why didn't you ask for these things? Does it seem to you that the way to get your claims considered is to disorganize the work first and then make your demands?"