"I should say you had," muttered Cavard.
"The interview is closed, gentlemen," announced Mr. Penton. "You have my ultimatum in the matter. When you can come to me properly authorized, I will give your demands consideration, and not until then. I have nothing to do with your differences in your organization. I do know, however, that Mr. Rush is a young man whose word I would take as far as that of any man I know. Good evening, gentlemen."
The superintendent rose, indicating that the interview need not be prolonged.
Very much crestfallen, the delegates turned toward the door, followed by Steve.
"You will hear from us again, Mr. Penton," announced Cavard, speaking with emotion.
"Very good, sir."
"You young whelp, you'll suffer for this evening's work," raged the walking delegate when the callers had regained the street. "I'll see to it that your path isn't one of roses hereafter. I give you fair warning. I am the master here, and you will find that out to your sorrow."
"It has been my experience," answered Steve, "that men who make the loudest threats are the least to be feared. Let me tell you, while I have the opportunity, that the best thing you can do is to carry on the affairs of the union honestly. Otherwise you will go down, and the union will go down with you."
Steve turned away. Once more he had defeated the walking delegate and president of the union by a masterful move.