Firmstone was well aware of the simmering discontent which his rigid discipline was arousing. He regretted it, but he was hopeful that the better element among the men would yet gain the ascendant.
"He's square," remarked one of his defenders. "There was a mistake in my time, last payroll, and he looked over the time himself." "That's so," in answer to one objector. "I was in the office and saw him."
"You bet he's square," broke in another. "Didn't I get a bad pair of boots out of the commissary, and didn't he give me another pair in their place? That's what."
If Morrison and Pierre had not been in active evidence Firmstone would have won the day without a fight.
_Bennie Opens the Pot and Firmstone Comes in_
Firmstone was late to breakfast the day of Zephyr's departure, and Bennie was doing his best to restrain his impatience. When at last the late breakfaster appeared, Bennie's manner was noticeably different from the ordinary. He was a stanch defender of the rights of the American citizen, an uncompromising opponent of companies and trusts, a fearless and aggressive exponent of his own views; but withal a sincere admirer and loyal friend of Firmstone. Bennie knew that in his hands were very strong cards, and he was casting about in his mind for the most effective mode of playing them.
"Good morning, Bennie," Firmstone called out, on entering the dining-room.
Bennie returned the greeting with a silent nod. Firmstone glanced at the clock.
"It is pretty late for good morning and breakfast, that's a fact."
Bennie disappeared in the kitchen. He returned and placed Firmstone's breakfast before him.
"What's the matter, Bennie?" Firmstone thought he knew, but events were soon to show him his mistake.
"Matter enough, Mr. Firmstone, as you'll soon find." Bennie was getting alarming.
Firmstone ate in silence. Bennie watched with impassive dignity.
"Is your breakfast all right?" he finally asked, unbendingly.
"All right, Bennie. Better than I deserve, pouncing on you at this hour." He again looked up at the clock.
"Come when you like, late or early, you'll get the best I can give you." Bennie was still rigid.
Firmstone was growing more puzzled. Bennie judged it time to support his opening.