pletion and how he, being - very busy, had guessed at the result rather than take the time to analyze the sample again. Toward the close of his small speech the Chemist entirely recovered his composure and, having - finished, stood with eyes fixed on the floor, waiting - for his employer to speak. The latter for some moments remained silent, gaz ing aimlessly out of the window as he had done most of the time the Chemist was speaking. Finally, shifting his gaze to the floor, he said in his usual deliberate tones: “I had hoped, Mr. Johnson, not to iind the cause of this trouble in you, but that your carelessness has caused the trouble I cannot now doubt. The furnace is in such a bad condition that I shall have to put it out of blast. As you know, that means at least two months before it can be blown in again.” Here the superintendent paused a mo ment, as though to allow his words to have their full effect, then continued, “From many men you could hope for noth ing less than a discharge in a case like this.”—Another pause, in which Johnson’s heart g - ave a throb of hope—“ Had you not openly told me the truth of the matter I should most certainly do the same provided I could prove the fault to be yours. However, as it is, lam willing to g - ive you a new trial. I hope you see from this how much value I place on a straightforward and truthful man, especially one in your position. You must now understand the full consequences of your carelessness and, I trust, will govern your future work accordingly.” As he finished speaking Gray rose and moved to the door. He did not wait for a reply, but passed quietly out and, accompanied by the furnace-man, hurried away toward the office. Johnson, unable to utter a single word, stood staring after the two men as they went. When finally he did open his mouth to speak, it was not to exclaim over the fact that he had escaped discharge, though that was important The Chemist's Guess
Significant historical Pennsylvania newspapers