They carefully laid it into the little bed prepared for it, while the spectators craned and “Oh’d” and “Ah’d” in admiration.
Now here came the last rails—one pair from the U. P. end, proudly carried by two squads of the U. P. Irish, in clean shirts and trousers, and “bossed” by Paddy Miles; one pair from the C. P. end, proudly carried by two squads of the C. P. Chinamen, in clean blouses and trousers, and bossed by Mr. Minkler.
Harry’s telegraph instrument was clicking.
“Omaha has replied: ‘We understand. All are ready in the East,’” announced General Dodge. “The word has been repeated in all the large cities. The management of the Western Union Telegraph Company in Washington has issued orders that the lines are to be kept open throughout the continent until after the ceremonies.”
The two pairs of rails had been gently placed, and the fish-plate fastening at the joints adjusted. One double length was spiked fast in the ordinary way. Pat and his Irish squads and Boss Minkler and his Chinaman squads filed off. The crowd burst into another cheer; Terry and George, highest of all, joined.
“There she is, complete,” George asserted.
“No. Wait!”
General Dodge was speaking.
“The time is at hand. The operator is sending the message, east and west: ‘To everybody: Keep quiet. When the last spike is driven at Promontory Point we will say, “Done.” Don’t break the circuit, but watch for the signals of the hammer blows. The spike will soon be driven. The signal will be three dots for the commencement of the blows.’ Omaha has replied, so has San Francisco. The country is waiting. We will now have the presentation of the spikes. I take pleasure in introducing Congressman Tritle, of Nevada Territory.”
The Honorable F. A. Tritle, of Nevada (who was only trying to be governor), stepped forward, with a bright silver spike. He faced Vice-President Durant.