‘But wait. The matter is not yet finished. I think you are mistaken about your duty being ended; but if it really is, I myself have a duty to perform yet.’
‘How do you mean?’
‘Are you going to report my disobedience at headquarters in Pittsburg?’
‘No. What good would that do?’
‘You must report me, or I will report you.’
‘Report me for what?’
‘For disobeying the company’s orders in not stopping this game. As a citizen it is my duty to help the railway companies keep their servants to their work.’
‘Are you in earnest?’
‘Yes, I am in earnest. I have nothing against you as a man, but I have this against you as an officer—that you have not carried out that order, and if you do not report me I must report you. And I will.’
The conductor looked puzzled, and was thoughtful a moment; then he burst out with: