“With only one condition—that the men be reinstated in their old positions—all except Bassett.”
“We have promised to give permanent positions to any of the new men who made good,” said Allan. “We must keep that promise.”
“We have no objection to that. Mighty few of them can hold a permanent job. Mr. West, I’m going to be candid with you. This strike was begun foolishly and without proper investigation. You know why—it was because of your exposure of Nixon. Now we are anxious to make such amends as we can, and we go further than we usually do. We agree, as I have said, to your giving permanent places to as many of the strike-breakers as you care to keep and as care to stay.”
Allan held out his hand quickly.
“Then I understand the strike is ended?”
“It will end at noon, if you say so.”
“I do say so.”
“Good!” cried Simpson, and grasped the hand held out to him.
Not more than half a dozen men were within hearing, but the news of the great event passed like lightning from mouth to mouth, and the crowd was soon cheering like mad.
“Well,” said Stanley, “I guess my job’s done. I’ll be mighty glad t’ git back t’ my bed ag’in. Will you see Hummel before I send him up-town?”