THE STRIKE The barn at which Hurstwood applied was exceedingly short-handed, and was being operated practically by three men as directors.

There were a lot of green hands around--queer, hungry-looking men, who looked as if want had driven them to desperate means.

They tried to be lively and willing, but there was an air of hang-dog diffidence about the place.
Hurstwood went back through the barns and out into a large, enclosed lot, where were a series of tracks and loops.

A half dozen cars were there, manned by instructors, each with a pupil at the lever.

More pupils were waiting at one of the rear doors of the barn.
In silence Hurstwood viewed this scene, and waited.