On the morning of the same day Squire Sheldon sat in his study when the servant came in and brought a card.
“It’s a gentleman thats come to see you, sir,” she said.
Lemuel Sheldon’s eye brightened when he saw the name, for it was that of a railroad man who was interested in the proposed road from Sherborn.
“I am glad to see you, Mr. Caldwell,” he said cordially, rising to receive his guest. “What is the prospect as regards the railroad?”
“I look upon it as a certainty,” answered Enoch Caldwell, a grave, portly man of fifty.
“And it is sure to pass through our town?”
“Yes, I look upon that as definitely decided.”
“The next question is as to the route it will take,” went on the squire. “Upon that point I should like to offer a few suggestions.”
“I shall be glad to receive them. In fact, I may say that my report will probably be accepted, and I shall be glad to consult you.”
“Thank you. I appreciate the compliment you pay me, and, though I say it, I don’t think you could find any one more thoroughly conversant with the lay of the land and the most advisable route to follow. If you will put on your hat we will go out together and I will give you my views.”