It was from Wilson, his manager, and it read
as follows:--
Harrisville, June 9, 18--.
_Colonel Reuben Harris,
Steamer Majestic, New York_.
Our four thousand men struck this morning for higher wages. What shall
we do?
B.C. Wilson.
Harris was almost paralyzed. His wife and daughters ran to him. The
steamer's big whistle was sounding. All was now confusion. There was only
a moment to decide, but Harris proved equal to the situation. He stepped
to the purser, surrendered his passage ticket, kissed his wife and two
daughters, saying to his son, "Alfonso, take charge of the party as I go
back to Harrisville."
Gertrude, insisting, accompanied her father, and remained ashore. On the
dock stood Colonel Harris, Gertrude, and Mr. Searles, all three waving
their white handkerchiefs to Mrs. Harris, Lucille, Alfonso, and Leo. What
a bad send-off!
The best laid schemes o' mice an' men,
Gang aft a-gley,
And leave us nought but grief and pain,
For promised joy.
The Harrises on the steamer, and the Harrises on the pier had heavy
hearts, especially Colonel Harris and Gertrude so suddenly disappointed.
It was soon agreed that the three should start that evening for
Harrisville.
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