Pavel replied loudly:
"If the factory should drain the marsh at its own expense, we would all understand it!"
"This factory is not in the philanthropy business!" remarked the manager dryly. "I order you all to start work at once!"
And he began to descend, cautiously feeling the iron with his feet, and without looking at anyone.
A dissatisfied hum was heard in the crowd.
"What!" asked the manager, halting.
All were silent; then from the distance came a solitary voice:
"If in fifteen minutes you do not start work, I'll order every single one of you to be discharged!" the manager announced dryly and distinctly.
He again proceeded through the crowd, but now an indistinct murmur followed him, and the shouting grew louder as his figure receded.