When they had first gathered, there had been dark brows,
and every sentence had been like the blow of flint on steel. At one
moment all but the officer had risen from their seats, and the meeting
had seemed ended. But the officer had said something quietly, and once
more they had seated themselves. Far into the night they sat, while mobs
yelled, and sentries marched their beats. When the gathering ended, the
scowls were gone. Civil partings were exchanged, and the committee and
the officer passed out together.
"That Stirling is a gritty bull-dog for holding on, isn't he?" said one
of the railroad officials. "It's a regular surrender for us."
"Yes, but we couldn't afford to be too obstinate with him, for he may be
the next governor."
One of the committee said to the officer as they passed into the street,
"Well, we've given up everything to the road, to please you. I hope
you'll remember it when you're governor and we want things done."
"Gentlemen," said Peter, "for every surrender of opinion you and the
railroad officials have made to-night, I thank you.
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