Winthrop was called on for remarks, and observed that the demonstration was a hasty action that would not be approved, probably, by the people themselves on mature reflection. "A few weeks ago,” he went on, “these same people were hurrahing; for the Waterville Town Company. They expect us to perform wonders in a few weeks’ time, that in reality require months, and even years. I fully believe the present depression will be followed by a healthy activity that will satisfy the most pronounced pessimist in Waterville.”
“Gentlemen.” said Dick Ballard, “there are four of us. Miss Virginia Bonifield is a most exemplary young lady, while, as a teacher, she is without a peer. I stand ready to pledge myself for one-fourth of her salary. Her salary for the entire year is $500.
“Put me down for one fourth,” said Vance.
“I will gladly pay one fourth,” said Marcus Donald, “and my check is ready at any time.”
“Count me in on the deal,” said Homer Winthrop “Just one thing, gentlemen,” said Dick Ballard, “I am pretty well acquainted with Miss Virginia Bonifield.
She posseses the spirit of independence to a very large degree. She is, indeed, the daughter of her father, Colonel Bonifield. If she knew that her salary was comin’ from a private source, why, you could not get her to touch a dollar of it, therefore I think it best to consider this compact and agreement strictly confidential.”
Dick Ballard’s views met with the approval of his associates, and then the conversation became general. Vance inquired when the Town Company would probably hold another meeting.