“Twenty-eight Mexicans and fourteen Americans absent from camp,” he muttered. “Foremen, when these men come back you may tell them that they are no longer needed.”
All four of the gang bosses looked somewhat astonished.
“Merely for leaving camp in the night time?” Mendoza inquired.
“Yes, under the circumstances,” nodded Tom. “If any of these men declare that they were properly absent, and did not visit the gambling and the drinking dives, then such men may be reinstated after they have satisfied Mr. Hazelton, Mr. Hawkins or myself of the truth of their statements.”
“Some of these men will be very ugly when they find that they are discharged, Senor,” suggested Mendoza.
“But you are loyal to us?”
“Can you doubt it, Senor?” asked Mendoza proudly.
“Then you will know how to handle your own fellow-countrymen. The other foremen will be able to handle the rest of the disgruntled ones. However, as I have told you, if any man claims that he is unjustly treated, send him to headquarters for a chance at reinstatement.”
General Manager Ellsworth had heard the conversation, but had not interfered. As soon as the young engineers were alone he joined them at table, saying:
“Aren't you afraid, Reade, that these discharged men will hasten to join our enemies?”