If he comes, we go--that's so, ain't it, boys ?" There was a general response of approval to this appeal; and Mr.
Blatchford, seeing the utter uselessness of further parleying, left the room, followed by Charlie and the gentleman with whom he had been conversing.
Mr.Blatchford was placed in a most disagreeable position by this revolt on the part of his workmen; he had just received large orders from some new banks which were commencing operations, and a general disruption of his establishment at that moment would have ruined him.

To accede to his workmen's demands he must do violence to his own conscience; but he dared not sacrifice his business and bring ruin on himself and family, even though he was right.
"What would you do, Burrell ?" he asked of the gentleman who had followed them out.
"There is no question as to what you must do.

You mustn't ruin yourself for the sake of your principles.

You will have to abandon the lad; the other alternative is not to be thought of for a moment." "Well, Charles, you see how it is," said Mr.Blatchford, reluctantly.
Charlie had been standing intently regarding the conversation that concerned him so deeply.

His face was pale and his lips quivering with agitation.
"I'd like to keep you, my boy, but you see how I'm situated, I must either give up you or my business; the latter I cannot afford to do." With a great effort Charlie repressed his tears, and bidding them good morning in a choking voice, hastened from the room.
"It's an infernal shame!" said Mr.Blatchford, indignantly; "and I shall think meanly of myself for ever for submitting to it; but I can't help myself, and must make the best of it." Charlie walked downstairs with lingering steps, and took the direction of home.