imate, more or less exact, of the capacity of every
machine. In the course of this investigation, he was surprised to
discover that there was no detailed record of the actual production
of each machine, nor, indeed, anything in the way of an accurate cost
system in any department of the whole business.

"How do you keep track of your men and their work, Wickes?" he inquired.

"Oh!" said the old man, "the foremen know all about that, Mr. Jack."

"But how can they know? What check have they?"

"Well, they are always about, Mr. Jack, and keep their eyes on things
generally."

"I see," said Jack. "And do you find that works quite satisfactorily?"

"Well, sir, we have never gone into details, you know, Mr. Jack, but if
you wish--"

"Oh, no, Wickes, I am just trying to get the hang of things, you know."
Jack was unwilling to even suggest a criticism of method at so early
a stage in his managerial career. "I want to know how you run things,
Wickes, and at any time I shall be glad of assistance from you."

The old bookkeeper hastened to give him almost tearful assurance of his
desire to assist to the utmost of his power.

The meeting of Local 197 of the Woodworkers' Union was largely attended,
a special whip having been sent out asking for a full meeting on the
ground that a matter of vital importance to unionised labour was to be
considered.

The matter of importance turned out to be nothing less than a
proposition that the Woodworkers' Union should join with all other
unions in the town to make a united demand upon their respective
employers for an increase in wages and better conditions all around, in
connection with their various industries. The question was brought up in
the form of a resolution from their executive, which strongly urged
that this demand should be approved and that a joint committee should be
appointed to take steps for the enforcement of the demand. The executive
had matters thoroughly in hand. Brother Simmons and the more radical
element were kept to the background, the speakers chosen to present the
case being all moderates. There was no suggestion of extreme measures.
Their demands were reasonable, and it was believed that the employers
were prepared to give fair consideration--indeed, members had had
assurance from an authoritative quarter on the other side that such was
the case.

Notwithstanding the moderate tone adopted in presenting it, the
resolution met with strenuous opposition. Th