When he thought of the inexorable labour done under heart-breaking conditions, in spite of cold and wind and snow, and with sufferings and deprivations little considered.

Bryant felt for the workmen, rough though they were, a strong affection.

They had done the bitter work.
"Out goes the chunk to-day," was Pat's greeting that morning.
A spirit of eagerness, almost of enthusiasm, pervaded the crews that first went forth in the cold to work at the drills.

It was the final attack, and they went from their steaming breakfast with jests and laughter that rang back over the snow.

Sixteen below zero, and they laughed! Bryant had a sudden conviction that nothing could stop such men--neither weather, nor elements, nor fate itself.